The ubiquitous year-end blog. Many are doing it. More will. Lump me in with the rest of them. The big events of 2008 for me:
1. Job change. Yes, job change not career change. Because I don't know what career I want yet. If I stop being afraid of writing (and the ultimate acceptance or rejection of said writing), I might become an author. But currently, my communications-related track is going along, as the new Communications Coordinator for ACEC Washington. It stretches me everyday. At least I'm forcing it to.
2. Stopped actively working on race cars. After nearly 15 years of working on race cars, sacrificing a lot time and energy, I hung up the stopwatch, so to speak. I got to the point where the effort put in was far greater than the return, and the sport stopped being fun. I've been kicking around defining a new role I want to be challenged in, but I'm sorting out the new job and my more important aspirations.
3. Gaining expertise in social media. I'm not the most technical person, but I feel I have a great ability to understand technical issues and break them down to understandable concepts. I may not know how to do something, but I can likely understand the concepts and pathway to get there. Social media is similar. Everyone "wants" to use it, but they don't know how, or if they should. That's where I shine, I think. I can't write the explicit code, but I can find solutions that will work. The new Internet structure is fitting the skill set of others like me. For a crude illustration, I'll point you towards Office Space. "I deal with the customer so the !@#$#$%%%^ engineers don't have to! I'm a people person! I have valuable people skills!" (okay, that's a stretch on the last part)
4. Segue into... Movie "wealth" is building. I saw more movies this year (dunno if that's a good sign), but I'm a minor movie enthusiast. My DVD collection is over 400 (modest collection to my standards), but I haven't traveled to the classics aisle yet. Mainly because I can't get them for $5-$10 yet. All those DVDs and not one Jimmy Stewart.
5. Played less video games. Yeah, that was great, but the time spent playing games shifted to the Internet and a little site called Hulu.com. I don't even have an XBOX 360, so I'm behind on that front. At the beginning of 2008 I had two options: guitar or 360. Good call!
6. Spent more time with the parents, playing cards or dominoes. And they kick my butt most of the time. I enjoy playing games, like when I was little. I remember playing Uno with the family, or Monopoly, Payday, Life, Clue, or any other game.
7. Being more selective in my blogroll. Sure my b-roll has over 100 feeds, but I only read about 10-20 of them. I think if I have some spare time I'll delete the feeds I don't read. Bloglines makes organization a dreadful thing, at least it was last time I did it.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Seth Godin
He has some great posts. I agree with a lot he has to say, but I'm not sure I'd agree with everything. I haven't met the guy. But Seth has a nice post that every manager should be looking at in new employees (since this "recession" isn't going to last forever".
High points of this post:
1) Passion and expertise are required for employees. The level of each is determined by the position.
2) Passion for living and growing in the expertise trumps passion for the mission. For example, the factory worker with a passion for building engines doesn't necessarily need the same passion for all of GM's products.
Seth applies the "core competency" principle to labor, which isn't anything new, but I would venture a guess that some managers still don't get it.
Seth ignores the "skills can be taught" mantra, for good reason. It's misunderstood. You can teach new skills to employees, but if they don't have the passion to learn, they won't perform well. Or at all. But if you teach skills to employees that want to learn, they will be far more productive.
High points of this post:
1) Passion and expertise are required for employees. The level of each is determined by the position.
2) Passion for living and growing in the expertise trumps passion for the mission. For example, the factory worker with a passion for building engines doesn't necessarily need the same passion for all of GM's products.
Seth applies the "core competency" principle to labor, which isn't anything new, but I would venture a guess that some managers still don't get it.
Seth ignores the "skills can be taught" mantra, for good reason. It's misunderstood. You can teach new skills to employees, but if they don't have the passion to learn, they won't perform well. Or at all. But if you teach skills to employees that want to learn, they will be far more productive.
Somebody's fired.
Over at Brand New, which I stumbled through Core77's blog, I came across the post about Pepsi's new branding. Not that I'm against change, it just has to be good change. Pepsi has pulled a "New Coke". And if Pepsi claims they had a deadline to make, let it be known- a great branding, or rebranding, knows no time. When a great mark is created, it could be done in 5 minutes on the back of a napkin, or 4 months, 3 firms, and 2 regime changes later. A great mark is almost a corporate unicorn.
And a reader jab (look at the larger version to get it all):
And a reader jab (look at the larger version to get it all):
Don't ask what the US can do for you.
For a while now it's been generally accepted Hollywood is out of new ideas, or seems to be content leveraging recycled ideas. Over and over. Like plastic parsley (for those that remember Alaska Air commercials).
It's reaching throughout the industry as well. Case in point:
vs.
Along with the plethora of identity crisis packaging:
I can see the point if there are multiple versions- widescreen, fullscreen, director's cut, anniversary edition, unrated, or a re-release. But a new movie? C'mon.
It's reaching throughout the industry as well. Case in point:
vs.
Along with the plethora of identity crisis packaging:
I can see the point if there are multiple versions- widescreen, fullscreen, director's cut, anniversary edition, unrated, or a re-release. But a new movie? C'mon.
Friday, December 19, 2008
"I've been working on the chain...gaaa-aa-ing..."
For NW drivers, here's my logic:
Snow chains are for use when you can't see the pavement and there is a base of snow & ice. The coefficient of friction of steel on ice is probably really, really low. Meaning slick.
Snow cables/plastic/lightweight chains are for use with hard pack snow and ice where some pavement is visible- that is, patchy.
When you can clearly see pavement, and no snow or ice is present, do not use either option on the roadway. Pull over and remove them.
Why?
1) Prevents unnecessary road damage.
2) When a car/truck looses a chain/cable, the driver never goes back for it. So it's left sitting in the middle of the freeway where drivers have to dodge and weave. Or it gets caught in some cow-catcher and destroys it (not like that would be a bad thing).
Snow chains are for use when you can't see the pavement and there is a base of snow & ice. The coefficient of friction of steel on ice is probably really, really low. Meaning slick.
Snow cables/plastic/lightweight chains are for use with hard pack snow and ice where some pavement is visible- that is, patchy.
When you can clearly see pavement, and no snow or ice is present, do not use either option on the roadway. Pull over and remove them.
Why?
1) Prevents unnecessary road damage.
2) When a car/truck looses a chain/cable, the driver never goes back for it. So it's left sitting in the middle of the freeway where drivers have to dodge and weave. Or it gets caught in some cow-catcher and destroys it (not like that would be a bad thing).
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
On the Other Hand...
I was recently asked "What's your favorite management style?" As in, what preferences do I look for, or need, in my manager. I honestly replied that I'm still trying to figure that out.
More often than not, different roles require different management techniques. Depending on my role and responsibilities, I require different management support. And I think it's the same for any position- at any given time, your present role will dictate what type of management you need.
For example, if I'm scheduling work teams for an upcoming project, I don't require a manager to do it and have me communicate it. What I do need is a manager who will back me up when an employee has a problem with the schedule, or I communicate there isn't enough resources. Or if I have a large punch list, I don't need a micro-manager asking every five minutes if project W or V is done.
When job descriptions tend to gravitate to the "Other duties as assigned" territory, management styles should alter to fit the employee role. A production (otherwise known as "Goods") role requires direction and approval management. Relationship-building ("Services") role requires mentorship and policy oversight. Or to use a sports metaphor, production roles are like football plays. X's and O's, everyone knows their part to get the ball across the goal line. Relationship roles are dynamic and fluid, more like an MMPORPG (Massive Mulit-Player Online Role-Playing Game)- a set environment and a few rules. But you do whatever is allowed in the construct to accomplish your goals.
So each role requires different styles, since X's and O's aren't enough when you have Y's, Q's, and AE's (diphthongs).
And looking back at my answer, I think I'll rephrase it to this: Whichever leads me to my next level.
More often than not, different roles require different management techniques. Depending on my role and responsibilities, I require different management support. And I think it's the same for any position- at any given time, your present role will dictate what type of management you need.
For example, if I'm scheduling work teams for an upcoming project, I don't require a manager to do it and have me communicate it. What I do need is a manager who will back me up when an employee has a problem with the schedule, or I communicate there isn't enough resources. Or if I have a large punch list, I don't need a micro-manager asking every five minutes if project W or V is done.
When job descriptions tend to gravitate to the "Other duties as assigned" territory, management styles should alter to fit the employee role. A production (otherwise known as "Goods") role requires direction and approval management. Relationship-building ("Services") role requires mentorship and policy oversight. Or to use a sports metaphor, production roles are like football plays. X's and O's, everyone knows their part to get the ball across the goal line. Relationship roles are dynamic and fluid, more like an MMPORPG (Massive Mulit-Player Online Role-Playing Game)- a set environment and a few rules. But you do whatever is allowed in the construct to accomplish your goals.
So each role requires different styles, since X's and O's aren't enough when you have Y's, Q's, and AE's (diphthongs).
And looking back at my answer, I think I'll rephrase it to this: Whichever leads me to my next level.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Better Mousetrap
Mark Cuban weighed in on the US auto makers crisis, and asked a simple question. I also have questions about the US Big Three that I've never understood.
1) Why does GM have so many different brands, with only Cadillac and Hummer the clearly "luxury" brand? Chevrolet, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, and Buick pretty much sell the same level of car. Ford would have clear, definitive lines with the jettisoning of Mercury- Lincoln, Volvo, Mazda. Chrysler has it almost, but that was based on the acquisition of other brands, like Jeep.
If you don't understand this point, look at the current trend on the other side of the pond. VW and Audi. VW ("the people's car") and Audi used to be clear on where they fit on the economic value of it's respective brands. But now VW quality, design, and price are vying for Audi customers.
2) Why fight the Perception vs. Quality argument? If customers expect a cheap, fall-apart car, provide a car that fit (not meet or match) their expectations, with a little extra. If a whiz-bang car comes out from a manufacturer known to build poor quality cars, the new best thing is going to be looked at skeptically and critically. Do you think anyone would buy an XLR if Yugo built it? Hyundai is a prime example. It's taken years (if not decades) to persuade America that it builds quality cars, inexpensively at that.
3) Why do people NOT buy from the US Big Three? My answer is three-part, and I'm avoiding the Labor/Union/Entrenchment points because I don't know anything about working inside an auto builder.
A) The proliferation of cars in the market. I initially thought that the US offered too many vehicle options, which increased the CODB, but manufacturers offer 15-18 different vehicles. But multiply that by at least 10 to get our buffet line going. Anyone can get anything. Options are endless. Problem is that the US Big Three did little to differentiate the similar offerings though the product line. GMC Yukon is the same as the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban. Chrysler Town & Country is the same as the Dodge Minivan. Going back- Olds Cutlass, Buick Regal, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Pontiac Something (Does it really matter at this point?). Virtually the same. Compare to Toyota and Lexus. Nissan and Infiniti seem to be the most US-like of Japan's Big Three.
B) Americans are more "wealthy" and buy more luxurious cars, or "better" cars- Audi, BMW, M-B, Lexus, Acura, Jaguar, and the supercar realm. Customers are more likely to spend another $10,000-20,000 for a European badge rather than a domestic plate. The perceived quality and prestige is more important than the bump in sticker price.
C) Foreigners are dead sexy. Face it, the amount of options allow for design risks and definable looks as a way to seduce buyers. True, majority of the Japan Big Three sales come from products very similar to each other. Compare the Accord to Camry throughout the years on the design side. Then compare the 3 Series to A4. Other than the Viper, Corvette, Camaro, H1, and Saturn Sky, there is not a whole lot that interests me from the US Big Three. And a lot of people feel that way. I would rather have an A4, Q7, M3, Mini Cooper, Skyline, TSX, RL, Jetta, GTI, DB7, Land Rover, Carrera S, or E350, before I get to my top US Big Three pic.
If I could drive GM for a bit, here are some changes I would make (Since it's easy to be a backseat CEO):
Shift the line-up on value. Cadillac-Saab-Chevrolet-Pontiac-Saturn. Hummer/GMC merge to offer SUVs/Pickups as their line of service. And cut the "exclusivity" price gouging that comes with buying the GMC badge. Buick, bye-bye.
Vehicle offering line-up. Cadillac is obviously the marquee luxury brand for GM. Saab is the trendy "we-have-an-import-brand" diversity project. But the cars are nice. It's a weird fit for GM. Chevrolet quits producing pickups and SUVs, as they go to HummerMC. Corvette, Impala, Malibu, Cobalt, Pontiac's G6 and GTO/Camaro, and Buick's LaCrosse get rolled into the car-only line-up. Pontiac has the real quirky brand, with the Vibe, Aveo, Solstice, G3, and anything else that would look good with a NAPA Hat or Pizza chain on top. Think of Pontiac as the US answer to Scion. Saturn keeps the current offerings, as the new-way-of-doing-business brand. Saturn, with the exception of Sky, is not the best, not the most attractive, but the quality is there to get you from point A to point B.
So there it is, my quickly thought plans. What about Ford? With the exception of the GT40 and Mustang, they build trucks. Cars come with the package. Chrysler? Thanks for the mini-van.
Side-jab commentary- Enough with the stupid "cross-over" term. You're either a station wagon or mini-van. Vans have sliding doors. Wagons have swinging. Embrace who you are! People buy what they like, not what it's called.
And SUVs are derived from 4-door pickups with a canopy. If it has 3rd row seats that face backwards, it's a wagon. Forward- SUV. Afraid of parking garages- SUV.
1) Why does GM have so many different brands, with only Cadillac and Hummer the clearly "luxury" brand? Chevrolet, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, and Buick pretty much sell the same level of car. Ford would have clear, definitive lines with the jettisoning of Mercury- Lincoln, Volvo, Mazda. Chrysler has it almost, but that was based on the acquisition of other brands, like Jeep.
If you don't understand this point, look at the current trend on the other side of the pond. VW and Audi. VW ("the people's car") and Audi used to be clear on where they fit on the economic value of it's respective brands. But now VW quality, design, and price are vying for Audi customers.
2) Why fight the Perception vs. Quality argument? If customers expect a cheap, fall-apart car, provide a car that fit (not meet or match) their expectations, with a little extra. If a whiz-bang car comes out from a manufacturer known to build poor quality cars, the new best thing is going to be looked at skeptically and critically. Do you think anyone would buy an XLR if Yugo built it? Hyundai is a prime example. It's taken years (if not decades) to persuade America that it builds quality cars, inexpensively at that.
3) Why do people NOT buy from the US Big Three? My answer is three-part, and I'm avoiding the Labor/Union/Entrenchment points because I don't know anything about working inside an auto builder.
A) The proliferation of cars in the market. I initially thought that the US offered too many vehicle options, which increased the CODB, but manufacturers offer 15-18 different vehicles. But multiply that by at least 10 to get our buffet line going. Anyone can get anything. Options are endless. Problem is that the US Big Three did little to differentiate the similar offerings though the product line. GMC Yukon is the same as the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban. Chrysler Town & Country is the same as the Dodge Minivan. Going back- Olds Cutlass, Buick Regal, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Pontiac Something (Does it really matter at this point?). Virtually the same. Compare to Toyota and Lexus. Nissan and Infiniti seem to be the most US-like of Japan's Big Three.
B) Americans are more "wealthy" and buy more luxurious cars, or "better" cars- Audi, BMW, M-B, Lexus, Acura, Jaguar, and the supercar realm. Customers are more likely to spend another $10,000-20,000 for a European badge rather than a domestic plate. The perceived quality and prestige is more important than the bump in sticker price.
C) Foreigners are dead sexy. Face it, the amount of options allow for design risks and definable looks as a way to seduce buyers. True, majority of the Japan Big Three sales come from products very similar to each other. Compare the Accord to Camry throughout the years on the design side. Then compare the 3 Series to A4. Other than the Viper, Corvette, Camaro, H1, and Saturn Sky, there is not a whole lot that interests me from the US Big Three. And a lot of people feel that way. I would rather have an A4, Q7, M3, Mini Cooper, Skyline, TSX, RL, Jetta, GTI, DB7, Land Rover, Carrera S, or E350, before I get to my top US Big Three pic.
If I could drive GM for a bit, here are some changes I would make (Since it's easy to be a backseat CEO):
Shift the line-up on value. Cadillac-Saab-Chevrolet-Pontiac-Saturn. Hummer/GMC merge to offer SUVs/Pickups as their line of service. And cut the "exclusivity" price gouging that comes with buying the GMC badge. Buick, bye-bye.
Vehicle offering line-up. Cadillac is obviously the marquee luxury brand for GM. Saab is the trendy "we-have-an-import-brand" diversity project. But the cars are nice. It's a weird fit for GM. Chevrolet quits producing pickups and SUVs, as they go to HummerMC. Corvette, Impala, Malibu, Cobalt, Pontiac's G6 and GTO/Camaro, and Buick's LaCrosse get rolled into the car-only line-up. Pontiac has the real quirky brand, with the Vibe, Aveo, Solstice, G3, and anything else that would look good with a NAPA Hat or Pizza chain on top. Think of Pontiac as the US answer to Scion. Saturn keeps the current offerings, as the new-way-of-doing-business brand. Saturn, with the exception of Sky, is not the best, not the most attractive, but the quality is there to get you from point A to point B.
So there it is, my quickly thought plans. What about Ford? With the exception of the GT40 and Mustang, they build trucks. Cars come with the package. Chrysler? Thanks for the mini-van.
Side-jab commentary- Enough with the stupid "cross-over" term. You're either a station wagon or mini-van. Vans have sliding doors. Wagons have swinging. Embrace who you are! People buy what they like, not what it's called.
And SUVs are derived from 4-door pickups with a canopy. If it has 3rd row seats that face backwards, it's a wagon. Forward- SUV. Afraid of parking garages- SUV.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Googling....Googling....Googling....
Seeing if there is a remote chance I can move the menus to the left side in Office 2007 (yes, it is that discomforting), I found this- the reason for all my pain:
Jensen Harris' Blog for Office 2007 Users
Summary: Microsoft decided to use a mathematical equation to solve a human intuitive problem. FYI, there are many things determined by equations that don't turn out as expected.
[edit: misspelled Jensen's name]
Jensen Harris' Blog for Office 2007 Users
Summary: Microsoft decided to use a mathematical equation to solve a human intuitive problem. FYI, there are many things determined by equations that don't turn out as expected.
[edit: misspelled Jensen's name]
If You're Going to Change
Make change for the better. Especially design. Case in point- Adobe Photoshop CS4 vs MS Word 2007. Both utilize a set of tools to perform functions of the main program, giving users the ability to alter/edit/change/etc. the content. But each program (even the suite it is part of) goes about displaying the tools differently. Upfront I'll tell you I prefer Adobe's display (or UI for User Interface) over MS's display.
Pics (otherwise it doesn't exist):
Word 2007
Photoshop CS4
So why is Photoshop's UI better? Because I'd venture a guess that the majority of content created on computers is for 8.5x11 paper, usually in the portrait format. Users of Photoshop, however, are not using that format. Most use Photoshop for photos, which are mostly 3x5, 4x6, or some other horizontal layout. Photoshop menus can be "undocked" meaning users can move them where they need to.
In Word, the menus are "Gorilla Glue'd" to the top, and users are forced to use Word this format. I don't know if many users use the 2-up "Reading Layout" for composition, but I'm willing to guess we've all accepted the "Normal" or "Page Layout" view as standard- one sheet at a time.
With the proliferation and acceptance of Widescreen monitors (over the 4:3 ratio. We've always been "widescreen"), it makes sense to provide toolbars and the like similar to Photoshop- along the vertical sides of the screen. It preserves the standard upright content form we're used to and have standardized on. If we ever switch to square paper, or landscape everything, then we'll need horizontal menus.
Pics (otherwise it doesn't exist):
Word 2007
Photoshop CS4
So why is Photoshop's UI better? Because I'd venture a guess that the majority of content created on computers is for 8.5x11 paper, usually in the portrait format. Users of Photoshop, however, are not using that format. Most use Photoshop for photos, which are mostly 3x5, 4x6, or some other horizontal layout. Photoshop menus can be "undocked" meaning users can move them where they need to.
In Word, the menus are "Gorilla Glue'd" to the top, and users are forced to use Word this format. I don't know if many users use the 2-up "Reading Layout" for composition, but I'm willing to guess we've all accepted the "Normal" or "Page Layout" view as standard- one sheet at a time.
With the proliferation and acceptance of Widescreen monitors (over the 4:3 ratio. We've always been "widescreen"), it makes sense to provide toolbars and the like similar to Photoshop- along the vertical sides of the screen. It preserves the standard upright content form we're used to and have standardized on. If we ever switch to square paper, or landscape everything, then we'll need horizontal menus.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
"Burning Ring of Fire" (Johnny Cash)
I read a book once, "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff... And It's All Small Stuff" by Richard Carlson (Ph.D.) and he had a saying- you don't have the catch the ball when it's thrown to you. Similarly, I've heard it said you don't have to put out all the fires. Obviously this doesn't apply to real fires. It's a metaphor. Projects are like fires (that's a simile).
With forest fires, Department of Forestry actually does controlled burns to prevent widespread disaster during a real burn. And sometimes the fire gets too large to control, or they know the fire will run out of fuel, and let it go.
Sometimes "fires" need to be let go, and just monitored. Multiple problems can make a fire spiral out of control. The key in all this is to look back at where it went wrong. Learn from decisions made, assumptions made, or if preparation just wasn't there.
Make adjustments to the project plan, considering what needs to be applied from last time. Continual process improvement, just like in manufacturing.
With forest fires, Department of Forestry actually does controlled burns to prevent widespread disaster during a real burn. And sometimes the fire gets too large to control, or they know the fire will run out of fuel, and let it go.
Sometimes "fires" need to be let go, and just monitored. Multiple problems can make a fire spiral out of control. The key in all this is to look back at where it went wrong. Learn from decisions made, assumptions made, or if preparation just wasn't there.
Make adjustments to the project plan, considering what needs to be applied from last time. Continual process improvement, just like in manufacturing.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Coming to a Lowe's and Home Depot near you!
Seen over on Core77's blog is this awesome invention. Basically, a minor electrical current runs through you and your handy table saw. When your finger approaches proximity to the blade, the current is cut/completed or whatever, and enacts a stopping mechanism that destroys the blade and mechanism, yet saves your finger. Here's the proof:
While not a substitute for learning proper safety techniques with power tools, every school's woodshop should have these.
Tool manufactures, if not already done so, need to license it and add it as a feature on their saws. Looking at the web site, it seems as if SawStop is going about doing business differently. I think it's not always building the better mousetrap, it's building components that enhance the mousetrap. Apple made the iPhone. Thousands of developers make iPhone applications. They don't remake the iPhone. Same with Google Gadgets (Go, go, Google Gadgets!), FaceBook, etc.
I would like to see another test, this one using a hot dog that is flicked into the blade. Something a little faster to test the reaction mechanism. I don't think a majority of saw accidents are done by normal operating procedures.
While not a substitute for learning proper safety techniques with power tools, every school's woodshop should have these.
Tool manufactures, if not already done so, need to license it and add it as a feature on their saws. Looking at the web site, it seems as if SawStop is going about doing business differently. I think it's not always building the better mousetrap, it's building components that enhance the mousetrap. Apple made the iPhone. Thousands of developers make iPhone applications. They don't remake the iPhone. Same with Google Gadgets (Go, go, Google Gadgets!), FaceBook, etc.
I would like to see another test, this one using a hot dog that is flicked into the blade. Something a little faster to test the reaction mechanism. I don't think a majority of saw accidents are done by normal operating procedures.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Things I like (Rebuttal)
So here's my (short) list of things I like:
1) Typography. Or in basic terms, I LIKE FONTS! I love the new trend in fonts going to Gotham family fonts. Like Starbucks moving to a Rockwell style to Gotham. Yes, I know Gotham family fonts look eerily similar to eye charts, but they just look awesome. It's kinda like watching Bob Ross. Mesmerizing.
2) Sharing knowledge. Participating in message board convos/blogs/twitter where I can share my experience and expertise (real or imagined) to those who ask for it. They may not always listen, but someone else might.
3) Rain. In select circumstances. Really cool to see powerful (yet non-dangerous) weather happening. Like at the ocean.
4) Thinking about things that have so much inertia, would I really be able to change it? Or other's perspective of "it"? Shifting paradigms is kinda cool if you think about it. Pun not intended.
5) Great TV shows. Studio 60 was one of them. I prefer smart and witty dialogue, with quick retorts. The writing that makes you do a double take or go back and view it again, because you missed it the first time.
6) The Interwebs. Intertubes. Al Gore's Ultimate Behemoth. WOPR. It's the access to information. I've become dependent on looking for additional information, even if it has no profound affect on what I'm doing. It's just too easy to find the right answer or information. Fail Whale. Rick Roll'd. Jump the shark. l337. ROFL copter. letmegooglethatforyou.com. Note: I only used one wikipedia reference.
7) imdb.com. 'Nuff said.
8) Being productive with tangible items. I like being able to see what I did. There is some sort of mechanism in me that gains satisfaction when something is actually done; I can see the result of my effort. I like the occasional retreat/tradeshow/corporate party, but constantly having long meetings that impact my production end up not on this list. But note they didn't fall on my other list, either.
9) Being honest with my knowledge. If I don't know the answer, or know I don't have all the information/skills/tools, I like to think that I divulge my level of knowledge in the particular arena. One, it provides a clear understanding of my own current knowledge and where I need to focus learning. Two, it prevents down-the-line problems like "You said you could do this." Three, I don't spout off something I think is right, someone Googles it and finds the right answer.
10) Bismark doughnuts. The ones with custard filling. Mmmm. Wish I could eat them everyday without penalties. That's why they still remain a treat.
1) Typography. Or in basic terms, I LIKE FONTS! I love the new trend in fonts going to Gotham family fonts. Like Starbucks moving to a Rockwell style to Gotham. Yes, I know Gotham family fonts look eerily similar to eye charts, but they just look awesome. It's kinda like watching Bob Ross. Mesmerizing.
2) Sharing knowledge. Participating in message board convos/blogs/twitter where I can share my experience and expertise (real or imagined) to those who ask for it. They may not always listen, but someone else might.
3) Rain. In select circumstances. Really cool to see powerful (yet non-dangerous) weather happening. Like at the ocean.
4) Thinking about things that have so much inertia, would I really be able to change it? Or other's perspective of "it"? Shifting paradigms is kinda cool if you think about it. Pun not intended.
5) Great TV shows. Studio 60 was one of them. I prefer smart and witty dialogue, with quick retorts. The writing that makes you do a double take or go back and view it again, because you missed it the first time.
6) The Interwebs. Intertubes. Al Gore's Ultimate Behemoth. WOPR. It's the access to information. I've become dependent on looking for additional information, even if it has no profound affect on what I'm doing. It's just too easy to find the right answer or information. Fail Whale. Rick Roll'd. Jump the shark. l337. ROFL copter. letmegooglethatforyou.com. Note: I only used one wikipedia reference.
7) imdb.com. 'Nuff said.
8) Being productive with tangible items. I like being able to see what I did. There is some sort of mechanism in me that gains satisfaction when something is actually done; I can see the result of my effort. I like the occasional retreat/tradeshow/corporate party, but constantly having long meetings that impact my production end up not on this list. But note they didn't fall on my other list, either.
9) Being honest with my knowledge. If I don't know the answer, or know I don't have all the information/skills/tools, I like to think that I divulge my level of knowledge in the particular arena. One, it provides a clear understanding of my own current knowledge and where I need to focus learning. Two, it prevents down-the-line problems like "You said you could do this." Three, I don't spout off something I think is right, someone Googles it and finds the right answer.
10) Bismark doughnuts. The ones with custard filling. Mmmm. Wish I could eat them everyday without penalties. That's why they still remain a treat.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Things I dislike
Here's a good list of things I dislike, or depending upon the mood I'm in, hate.
1) Forgetting to get out the shower towel.
2) Dial-up ISPs. Worst. Programs. Evar.
3) Fanbois. You all know the one's I'm talking about. "OMG It's SOOO much better than the iPhone" or "SRT-4 kicks butt over any ricer!" Where is the :banghead: smiley when you need it?
4) Related to Fanbois- Brand Snobbery. With the amount of information available, choosing consumer items based solely on brand is pretty ridiculous. Plasma TVs, for example, are all sourced from the following: NEC/Pioneer, Samsung, Fujistu/Hitachi (w/NEC), Sony (w/Hitachi or NEC), LG/Zenith, or Panasonic.
5) Websites that look like they are from 1998-1999 (or actually ARE), the "critical mass" period of the Internet. Along that line, sites that are created in the 800x600 or smaller pixel box. A pass to some companies who use that format with actual creative action in the sites. Look no further than many government or city websites.
6) Dead spots with Cell phones. Especially when talking on them. And the ensuing instant call back from both parties. "I called you back and got your voicemail." "I was calling you back."
7) People who don't try to learn anything. Take a stab at something (metaphorically) first. If you succeed, congrats, you have a new skill. If you don't, you'll have a good starting point to determine if you really want it, or if it's better to find someone who can.
8) Books, as in their current format. I have a lot of books, some I'll read again. But I'd rather have them in multiple formats that allow better portability. Also, the fact they are different sizes. My OCD wants an even bookshelf. That's why I like the standard video cases. Everything looks orderly. In softcopy format, it's easier to search (ctrl + F), highlight & quote relevant sections, and doesn't require a bunch of trees. Bunch of oil and chemicals for the plastics and whatnot, but look at what we're not using!
1) Forgetting to get out the shower towel.
2) Dial-up ISPs. Worst. Programs. Evar.
3) Fanbois. You all know the one's I'm talking about. "OMG It's SOOO much better than the iPhone" or "SRT-4 kicks butt over any ricer!" Where is the :banghead: smiley when you need it?
4) Related to Fanbois- Brand Snobbery. With the amount of information available, choosing consumer items based solely on brand is pretty ridiculous. Plasma TVs, for example, are all sourced from the following: NEC/Pioneer, Samsung, Fujistu/Hitachi (w/NEC), Sony (w/Hitachi or NEC), LG/Zenith, or Panasonic.
5) Websites that look like they are from 1998-1999 (or actually ARE), the "critical mass" period of the Internet. Along that line, sites that are created in the 800x600 or smaller pixel box. A pass to some companies who use that format with actual creative action in the sites. Look no further than many government or city websites.
6) Dead spots with Cell phones. Especially when talking on them. And the ensuing instant call back from both parties. "I called you back and got your voicemail." "I was calling you back."
7) People who don't try to learn anything. Take a stab at something (metaphorically) first. If you succeed, congrats, you have a new skill. If you don't, you'll have a good starting point to determine if you really want it, or if it's better to find someone who can.
8) Books, as in their current format. I have a lot of books, some I'll read again. But I'd rather have them in multiple formats that allow better portability. Also, the fact they are different sizes. My OCD wants an even bookshelf. That's why I like the standard video cases. Everything looks orderly. In softcopy format, it's easier to search (ctrl + F), highlight & quote relevant sections, and doesn't require a bunch of trees. Bunch of oil and chemicals for the plastics and whatnot, but look at what we're not using!
Friday, November 28, 2008
From the other side of the fence...
Great logos don't just happen. A great logo is like an overnight success. The backroom activities, the silent arguing, and the long, dedicated hours to the craft finally get noticed. And popularity ensues. And on reading the interview, the industry term would be "mark" and not logo.
The company responsible for the mark, Mode, made some good comments about their process. And although the mark was created "quickly," it still took two weeks.
From Logo Design Love blog:
Steven Heller: How many iterations did you go through before deciding on this “O”? Was it your first idea?
Sol Sender: We actually presented seven or eight options in the first round, and the one that was ultimately chosen was among these. In terms of our internal process, though, I believe the logo — as we now know it — came out of a second round of design explorations. At any rate, it happened quite quickly, all things considered. The entire undertaking took less than two weeks.
Read the full interview here in the New York Times.
The company responsible for the mark, Mode, made some good comments about their process. And although the mark was created "quickly," it still took two weeks.
From Logo Design Love blog:
Steven Heller: How many iterations did you go through before deciding on this “O”? Was it your first idea?
Sol Sender: We actually presented seven or eight options in the first round, and the one that was ultimately chosen was among these. In terms of our internal process, though, I believe the logo — as we now know it — came out of a second round of design explorations. At any rate, it happened quite quickly, all things considered. The entire undertaking took less than two weeks.
Read the full interview here in the New York Times.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Well isn't that special?
I did an online survey for CBS, figured that's the least I can do since I watch some shows on there. Seemed a little long, and definitely NOT written by an English major.
One question asked if I remembered any advertisements during the show. Hmmm. Nope. I switch (alt + tab) to FreeCell during commercials, or I read a blog or two. I'm a pretty passive viewer.
Another question asked if there were ways to improve the viewing experience. Yup. Make it more like Hulu.com. Video pop-outs, dim the "lights" (browser), etc. Oh, and put Big Bang Theory online.
It took about 5 minutes, and they didn't ask a question that I though might be pertinent: Do I currently subscribe to Cable/Satellite TV, or have standard broadcast, or neither?
One question asked if I remembered any advertisements during the show. Hmmm. Nope. I switch (alt + tab) to FreeCell during commercials, or I read a blog or two. I'm a pretty passive viewer.
Another question asked if there were ways to improve the viewing experience. Yup. Make it more like Hulu.com. Video pop-outs, dim the "lights" (browser), etc. Oh, and put Big Bang Theory online.
It took about 5 minutes, and they didn't ask a question that I though might be pertinent: Do I currently subscribe to Cable/Satellite TV, or have standard broadcast, or neither?
Monday, November 24, 2008
"Did you have the chicken or the fish?" (Airplane!)
Wow. Here's a gander at the other side. Some are funny, some you can see where a customer isn't treated right, and some are just bizarre.
My favorite so far:
Caller: “I need to exchange this movie. It’s the wrong one.”
Me: “Which movie were you looking for?”
Caller: “Big Momma’s House.”
Me: “Um, what does it say on the case?”
Caller: “Big Momma’s House.”
Me: “What does it say on the video cassette itself?”
Caller: “Big Momma’s House.”
Me: “I’m thinking you have Big Momma’s House there, Ma’am.”
Caller: “But…”
Me: “Yes?”
Caller: “But… there’s white people in it.”
Me: “There are a few of us about, ma’am. We do sneak into the odd movie here and there.”
Caller: *click*
My favorite so far:
Caller: “I need to exchange this movie. It’s the wrong one.”
Me: “Which movie were you looking for?”
Caller: “Big Momma’s House.”
Me: “Um, what does it say on the case?”
Caller: “Big Momma’s House.”
Me: “What does it say on the video cassette itself?”
Caller: “Big Momma’s House.”
Me: “I’m thinking you have Big Momma’s House there, Ma’am.”
Caller: “But…”
Me: “Yes?”
Caller: “But… there’s white people in it.”
Me: “There are a few of us about, ma’am. We do sneak into the odd movie here and there.”
Caller: *click*
Friday, November 21, 2008
Gmail features- 200+ exp points!
Google's been busy enhancing. I subscribe to the Google Docs blog and recently added the Google Docs widget/tool/accessory to my Gmail. So over in the left column I have a list of docs currently hosted in my Google Docs section.
So if I ever need to forward/attach a document to an email, there it is. I avoid the "click to attach-browse-find folder-find document-click ok-click ok again-wait for uploading-click send" process.
But for those paranoid conspiracy folks, you may not want to indulge in this wonderful feature, unless you replace certain keywords in your manifest doctrines.
So if I ever need to forward/attach a document to an email, there it is. I avoid the "click to attach-browse-find folder-find document-click ok-click ok again-wait for uploading-click send" process.
But for those paranoid conspiracy folks, you may not want to indulge in this wonderful feature, unless you replace certain keywords in your manifest doctrines.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
"What's so great about discovery?" (Jurassic Park)
Thinking about enhancing the customer experience. Enhance. Enhance. Enhance. What if, by some miraculous use and discovery of technology, a customer could call ahead with his or her order? What if that was taken a step further?
Say, texting your "tall non fat americano with vanilla 20 min" order to your favorite coffee shop? And have a text reply "Order tall n/f amer. w/ vanilla will be ready for you in approx. 20 minutes. Thank you and see you soon. -Pat, Manager" Note: I don't drink coffee, so I have no idea if this is a real drink.
I think it could work. Queue systems are already in place, so a text-in gets shuffled in as well. When the customer comes in for the drink, they will know where their drink is in line. Why not display the queue like airlines displays flights?
Allow this feature only to those who want it. A special group of customers who have a favorite spot, who know the baristas, or vice versa. It may alleviate customer frustration when they see a long line at their favorite spot and decide in favor of cost, rather than benefit. Issue cards and provide special-only access to a text number.
On the business side, it opens a large, well, opening to gather information, preferences, and trends specific to the customer. So when the "new" drink comes out, it can be targeted even better.
Say, texting your "tall non fat americano with vanilla 20 min" order to your favorite coffee shop? And have a text reply "Order tall n/f amer. w/ vanilla will be ready for you in approx. 20 minutes. Thank you and see you soon. -Pat, Manager" Note: I don't drink coffee, so I have no idea if this is a real drink.
I think it could work. Queue systems are already in place, so a text-in gets shuffled in as well. When the customer comes in for the drink, they will know where their drink is in line. Why not display the queue like airlines displays flights?
Allow this feature only to those who want it. A special group of customers who have a favorite spot, who know the baristas, or vice versa. It may alleviate customer frustration when they see a long line at their favorite spot and decide in favor of cost, rather than benefit. Issue cards and provide special-only access to a text number.
On the business side, it opens a large, well, opening to gather information, preferences, and trends specific to the customer. So when the "new" drink comes out, it can be targeted even better.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
"Going green..." (Twister)
PC Magazine is going digital. PC Mag is like Consumer Reports, only for geeks. Any business manager in charge of tech purchases should be reading PC Mag for reference. A quick read of the Ziff-Davis company reveals a lot of buying and selling, constant corporate upheaval in the changing environment of print publications.
TV vs. Internet is nothing compared to Print vs. Internet. Not only is news accessible quicker using the Internet, but you control the influences. Local news is the weak point for Internet news, not readily accessible through searches or a publications web site.
Print has had many years to brace and prepare for the Internet, since both formats share the same content- words. It's so simple to copy and paste from a word processor application to an html editor and host a page (people do it all day with blogs). Copy and pasting video, however, is not easy. Nor was the ability to see the videos because of constantly changing formats, codecs, and Internet speed. I remember downloading IE 5.5 over dial-up; it took 9 hours, I downloaded overnight. Downloading or even watching streaming video was slow and poor quality. Only the last 4 or 5 years has video become integral within the web, and only within the last two years has it skyrocketed.
I didn't mean to ramble on with this, it just begs the question: What's next?
TV vs. Internet is nothing compared to Print vs. Internet. Not only is news accessible quicker using the Internet, but you control the influences. Local news is the weak point for Internet news, not readily accessible through searches or a publications web site.
Print has had many years to brace and prepare for the Internet, since both formats share the same content- words. It's so simple to copy and paste from a word processor application to an html editor and host a page (people do it all day with blogs). Copy and pasting video, however, is not easy. Nor was the ability to see the videos because of constantly changing formats, codecs, and Internet speed. I remember downloading IE 5.5 over dial-up; it took 9 hours, I downloaded overnight. Downloading or even watching streaming video was slow and poor quality. Only the last 4 or 5 years has video become integral within the web, and only within the last two years has it skyrocketed.
I didn't mean to ramble on with this, it just begs the question: What's next?
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
And Another Thing...
Regarding experts- they understand they don't know everything. Experts are constant foragers of information. So continually read up on subject matter, get a variety of sources. If your expert knowledge only comes from one source, say Wikipedia, that is not a very broad range. Learning about conflicting viewpoints, counter-arguments, and other challenges can solidify your knowledge base.
Being challenged isn't attacking credibility. It's strengthening the foundation. And it also exposes gaps in your knowledge base, providing room for improvement.
So the main points:
1. Gather information from many sources
2. Know the challenges within your subject matter
3. Test the information to ensure it is accurate and reliable
Being challenged isn't attacking credibility. It's strengthening the foundation. And it also exposes gaps in your knowledge base, providing room for improvement.
So the main points:
1. Gather information from many sources
2. Know the challenges within your subject matter
3. Test the information to ensure it is accurate and reliable
Monday, November 17, 2008
Reminder...
I was talking with someone on Sunday and she mentioned that a leading manufacturer in the Seattle area, freshly off a strike and trying to advert another, was requiring budget cuts across the board. Knee-jerk reaction for many companies is to freeze hiring or reduce the workforce, especially around year-end when the "numbers" aren't going to "satisfy" shareholders. There are so many disagreements to this practice of "budget control" it is amazing that big businesses still engage in it.
1) Cutting the teams can overwhelm current employees. If some are hourly rate, savings evaporate with overtime. In rare cases, "overloading" is actually making someone do work, rather than being a bump on the log. Management cuts the labor, doubles the work. Without killing the team, management must allow for projects to slip, or targets to be missed. Don't expect awesome chocolate-chip cookies when you cut the chips.
2) Cost-cutting through wages only affects payroll for the current quarter. Projects left unfinished, or finished half-donkey, can affect the future bottom line for years.
3) Hiring usually comes back in full effect on the first of the New Year. Cost of re-hiring is an added expense. Recruiting, interviewing, training, etc, all affect the bottom line in hours wasted, since it was done the previous year(s). Redundancy.
4) Employee morale is affected. Employees worry if they are going to be cut, regardless of management's reassurance. Some employees waste more time searching/interviewing for jobs on company time. Any manager who tells the team of 100 that 12 people will be gone in a week, I'll bet half of them will be on Monster within an hour.
5) Want to cut costs? Cut costs. Office supply purchases, different vendors, smarter utility management. Lean manufacturing doesn't have to apply to actually producing a tangible product. It can be applied to anything done by workers. Ramping up for expansion is highly short-term.
1) Cutting the teams can overwhelm current employees. If some are hourly rate, savings evaporate with overtime. In rare cases, "overloading" is actually making someone do work, rather than being a bump on the log. Management cuts the labor, doubles the work. Without killing the team, management must allow for projects to slip, or targets to be missed. Don't expect awesome chocolate-chip cookies when you cut the chips.
2) Cost-cutting through wages only affects payroll for the current quarter. Projects left unfinished, or finished half-donkey, can affect the future bottom line for years.
3) Hiring usually comes back in full effect on the first of the New Year. Cost of re-hiring is an added expense. Recruiting, interviewing, training, etc, all affect the bottom line in hours wasted, since it was done the previous year(s). Redundancy.
4) Employee morale is affected. Employees worry if they are going to be cut, regardless of management's reassurance. Some employees waste more time searching/interviewing for jobs on company time. Any manager who tells the team of 100 that 12 people will be gone in a week, I'll bet half of them will be on Monster within an hour.
5) Want to cut costs? Cut costs. Office supply purchases, different vendors, smarter utility management. Lean manufacturing doesn't have to apply to actually producing a tangible product. It can be applied to anything done by workers. Ramping up for expansion is highly short-term.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Expert Commentary
From Seth's Blog:
"Do you know enough?
If not, what are you doing about it?
If so, who do you think you're kidding?
[Interesting side alley: I was talking to a friend yesterday and encouraged her to speak at an upcoming conference. She said, "No way. I don't know enough." I explained that volunteering to speak was the best way to be sure that she'd end up knowing enough by the time she was through.]"
Interesting dilemma. Have broad knowledge, or be specific. In a world where most things are becoming commodities, what are you doing to become outstanding in your field? On the flip side, from The Incredibles: "If everyone is special, then no one will be."
What is an "Expert"? Someone who knows more about a subject matter than you. Sometimes we require certification to justify the "Expert" title- degrees, initials, published materials, etc. Convincing people you're an SME shouldn't be hard. Just let others handle things without you. It will let them, and you, know how much of an "expert" you are.
"Do you know enough?
If not, what are you doing about it?
If so, who do you think you're kidding?
[Interesting side alley: I was talking to a friend yesterday and encouraged her to speak at an upcoming conference. She said, "No way. I don't know enough." I explained that volunteering to speak was the best way to be sure that she'd end up knowing enough by the time she was through.]"
Interesting dilemma. Have broad knowledge, or be specific. In a world where most things are becoming commodities, what are you doing to become outstanding in your field? On the flip side, from The Incredibles: "If everyone is special, then no one will be."
What is an "Expert"? Someone who knows more about a subject matter than you. Sometimes we require certification to justify the "Expert" title- degrees, initials, published materials, etc. Convincing people you're an SME shouldn't be hard. Just let others handle things without you. It will let them, and you, know how much of an "expert" you are.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Introducing the smartest man alive...
Peter Schiff. Hindsight is 20/20, and anyone can look like a genius when something happens, but his conviction of his outlook outweighs the prospect of chance. Even in the face of other "experts" on Fox. Check this out.
I'm not a financial expert, but I'd recommend Barack puts Peter in charge of our economy.
I'm not a financial expert, but I'd recommend Barack puts Peter in charge of our economy.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Is your house on fire, Clark? (Christmas Vacation)
Guy Kawasaki had a great post on becoming better Twitterers. Or is it Twittees? Anyway, he has some great points about becoming a broader-read (more influence) Twit. A few of them resonate with me and something that I had been trying to word for a while.
Interact with the big Twitters. It's okay. Don't be intimidated that you know nothing about them other than what you read. Or that they have a gazillion followers. Interacting with a wider, outside-your-comfort-zone, audience may just bring more to yours.
Become a subject matter expert (SME). SMEs are sought-upon for advice. And in the absence of SMEs, people will listen to whoever has the most time on their hands. Just because someone has 1000 Twitters a day does not make them George Stephanopoulos. SMEs will have a dedicated relationship with followers because they will be passionate about the subject matter. In the book Jurassic Park, a character asks how the main character could remain so calm. The answer: Because he had thought about that moment his whole life. What have you been waiting for? What drives you to that "moment"? Twitter that.
And to help gain more influence over your audience, be respectful of their decision to follow you. Send direct Twitters to people when subject matter is not currently relevant. Otherwise followers will get turned off to the updates on BMs- "Size, frequency, color!" -Fletcher Reed, Liar Liar. In the information age, we can get TMI PDQ.
Interact with the big Twitters. It's okay. Don't be intimidated that you know nothing about them other than what you read. Or that they have a gazillion followers. Interacting with a wider, outside-your-comfort-zone, audience may just bring more to yours.
Become a subject matter expert (SME). SMEs are sought-upon for advice. And in the absence of SMEs, people will listen to whoever has the most time on their hands. Just because someone has 1000 Twitters a day does not make them George Stephanopoulos. SMEs will have a dedicated relationship with followers because they will be passionate about the subject matter. In the book Jurassic Park, a character asks how the main character could remain so calm. The answer: Because he had thought about that moment his whole life. What have you been waiting for? What drives you to that "moment"? Twitter that.
And to help gain more influence over your audience, be respectful of their decision to follow you. Send direct Twitters to people when subject matter is not currently relevant. Otherwise followers will get turned off to the updates on BMs- "Size, frequency, color!" -Fletcher Reed, Liar Liar. In the information age, we can get TMI PDQ.
Friday, November 7, 2008
"I have to return some video tapes." (American Psycho)
Is this the live "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego" game or election coverage?
I guess the massive amounts of eye candy during the election is one way to cover the fact that elections are one of the slowest developing news story. Historic election, yes. Do we need more fancy ways to say "Senator McCain just won Texas" or "Senator Obama has taken Iowa." I found some network's coverage really lackluster. Especially claiming results for the candidates when "0% of votes in" was clearly on screen. Or calling a culture a giant stone.
I guess the massive amounts of eye candy during the election is one way to cover the fact that elections are one of the slowest developing news story. Historic election, yes. Do we need more fancy ways to say "Senator McCain just won Texas" or "Senator Obama has taken Iowa." I found some network's coverage really lackluster. Especially claiming results for the candidates when "0% of votes in" was clearly on screen. Or calling a culture a giant stone.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The Answers for the 1.5 Mile Tri-Ovals
1. Kansas Speedway
2. Nashville SuperSpeedway (replaced Nashville Speedway at the Fairgrounds :-()
3. Chicagoland Speedway (ISC built, shafting the closer-to-downtown track)
4. Las Vegas Motor Speedway
5. Kentucky Speedway
2. Nashville SuperSpeedway (replaced Nashville Speedway at the Fairgrounds :-()
3. Chicagoland Speedway (ISC built, shafting the closer-to-downtown track)
4. Las Vegas Motor Speedway
5. Kentucky Speedway
Monday, November 3, 2008
More Google Earth
Who can name these tracks:
To be honest, I could probably name just two. Hint: 1 of the 5 the Cup cars do not race at.
And here's a warm-up with the SMI's trifecta: Atlanta Motor Speedway, Lowe's Motor Speedway, and Texas Motor Speedway. Name the three:
To be honest, I could probably name just two. Hint: 1 of the 5 the Cup cars do not race at.
And here's a warm-up with the SMI's trifecta: Atlanta Motor Speedway, Lowe's Motor Speedway, and Texas Motor Speedway. Name the three:
Thursday, October 30, 2008
If I had a million dollars.... (BNL song)
A post on RacingWest brought up improvements racers would like to see at Evergreen Speedway. Here's what I'd like to see (but unlikely). A 3/4 mile tri-oval, non-symmetrical, slight banking (about 10 degrees), pit facilities, seating for around 40-50,000. AND the new configuration would need to facilitate the current program as well. I think it would look something like this:
This would bring at least the Truck series back, and likely a Nationwide race. I doubt a Cup race, because the powers that be only like 1.5 mile tracks that cost $150 million or more. Besides, I'm secretly hoping the Cup will add another road course event and have it in Portland. Hawt.
This would bring at least the Truck series back, and likely a Nationwide race. I doubt a Cup race, because the powers that be only like 1.5 mile tracks that cost $150 million or more. Besides, I'm secretly hoping the Cup will add another road course event and have it in Portland. Hawt.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Technology...It's not always a good thing
Here's a blog writer that is amazing. Because he's hardly socially polite. He calls it as he sees it. It's Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team. He started Broadcast.com and sold it to Yahoo for CA-CHING! He has some great points about finance, CEOs, technology direction and more. He also isn't afraid to post what he goes through as a team owner, especially controversial player actions. I'm not linking because it contains the worst of our nation. So if you're really interested, go to his blog and read about it. It's been weeks ago.
Okay. So HP is spending a lot of coin pushing touch screen computers. Oooooooh. Aaaah. Do two things. Touch your monitor in the upper right corner right now. Now touch the monitor in the lower left corner. Imagine doing that 300 times a day. I'm not saying that is the extent of touch screen technology, or that is the sole purpose. But overall, touch screens are not for home computer use as a main method of computing. For those with physical problems that make standard computer use difficult or impossible, yes, touch screen technology is wonderful.
Touch screens have a specific set of uses, none of which I believe is destined for wide-spread adoption. Artistically it can be used for drawing. We already have Tablet PCs, and we all know how well those sell.
Using a keyboard is faster to navigate a computer. A mouse makes nearly everyone capable of navigating a computer. Keyboard shortcuts, if taken the time to learn them, would improve speed of navigation. Touch screens do the exact opposite. Games may be easier, like solitaire, but we're all lazy. No one wants to come home from work and become a mummy operating a computer.
The sad fact is the novelty of touch screens will outweigh intelligent decision making.
Okay. So HP is spending a lot of coin pushing touch screen computers. Oooooooh. Aaaah. Do two things. Touch your monitor in the upper right corner right now. Now touch the monitor in the lower left corner. Imagine doing that 300 times a day. I'm not saying that is the extent of touch screen technology, or that is the sole purpose. But overall, touch screens are not for home computer use as a main method of computing. For those with physical problems that make standard computer use difficult or impossible, yes, touch screen technology is wonderful.
Touch screens have a specific set of uses, none of which I believe is destined for wide-spread adoption. Artistically it can be used for drawing. We already have Tablet PCs, and we all know how well those sell.
Using a keyboard is faster to navigate a computer. A mouse makes nearly everyone capable of navigating a computer. Keyboard shortcuts, if taken the time to learn them, would improve speed of navigation. Touch screens do the exact opposite. Games may be easier, like solitaire, but we're all lazy. No one wants to come home from work and become a mummy operating a computer.
The sad fact is the novelty of touch screens will outweigh intelligent decision making.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Rambling Thoughts
So who knows what show replaced Seinfeld when Jerry "retired" from TV? It was 1999-2000 season if you need a hint.
I was searching for the lineups for the past and amazingly, wikipedia had a page referring to NBC's Thursday night lineup for the past two decades. What's funny is the first half of the table there aren't a lot of changes in the lineup. In the 90's there is a change nearly every year. Only 4 years did NBC go without changing the lineup since '91.
I can understand trying to find the mix after Cosby left NBC and having to wait for the anchor shows of Seinfeld and Friends. But looking at the last 6 years, NBC has shuffled a lot of shows. It shouldn't take that long to hand the baton off.
Scrubs is in its 8th season yet only spent 3 years in the Thursday night slot. NBC stuck The Apprentice on Thursdays to hand The Donald a built-in audience. But really, can't NBC let some shows get an audience before shuffling them about? Seinfeld took a while before people got the show. So did 30 Rock.
The answer: Frasier replaced Seinfeld for two years.
I was searching for the lineups for the past and amazingly, wikipedia had a page referring to NBC's Thursday night lineup for the past two decades. What's funny is the first half of the table there aren't a lot of changes in the lineup. In the 90's there is a change nearly every year. Only 4 years did NBC go without changing the lineup since '91.
I can understand trying to find the mix after Cosby left NBC and having to wait for the anchor shows of Seinfeld and Friends. But looking at the last 6 years, NBC has shuffled a lot of shows. It shouldn't take that long to hand the baton off.
Scrubs is in its 8th season yet only spent 3 years in the Thursday night slot. NBC stuck The Apprentice on Thursdays to hand The Donald a built-in audience. But really, can't NBC let some shows get an audience before shuffling them about? Seinfeld took a while before people got the show. So did 30 Rock.
The answer: Frasier replaced Seinfeld for two years.
Monday, October 20, 2008
I love Google Earth
So who can guess where this track is? It's roughly 1.6 mile oval, about 50' wide, and dang symmetrical. Likely banked, if you notice the change in width between the corners and straights.
All that's missing is some big grandstands, catchfence, multi-lane access, and a clean infield, you got yourself a nice racetrack, possibly NASCAR worthy.
The current occupant could build a new facility nearby. I think this could work.
Monday, October 13, 2008
The best multi-purpose tool.
It's not a Leatherman. It's not a Victornox Swiss Army Knife. Not even the useful zip-tie comes close. So what is the best multi-purpose tool?
Duct tape. I think most everyone will agree. It can be used to harness things together, patch things up, wrap presents, clean things, use as identification markers, and numerous other things that I'm sure others have used duct tape for (other than taping up ducts). Even hundreds of years in the future, Ellen Ripley used duct tape to combine the lethal assault rifle and grenade launcher with the fearsome flamethrower. Apparently even in the future nothing is so versatile as duct tape.
So what other uses is duct tape good for?
Related, the old saying: to a guy with a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. What if you have duct tape?
Duct tape. I think most everyone will agree. It can be used to harness things together, patch things up, wrap presents, clean things, use as identification markers, and numerous other things that I'm sure others have used duct tape for (other than taping up ducts). Even hundreds of years in the future, Ellen Ripley used duct tape to combine the lethal assault rifle and grenade launcher with the fearsome flamethrower. Apparently even in the future nothing is so versatile as duct tape.
So what other uses is duct tape good for?
Related, the old saying: to a guy with a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. What if you have duct tape?
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Live in infamy.
Who's today's bad guys?
It's companies. Conglomerates. Look at tv. Lost. Fringe. Prison Break. Movies: Resident Evil, Blindness, Flash of Genius. The bad guy is some non-descript corporate entity bent on covering up mistakes or maximizing profits and power.
Coming up in the chain is governments, particularly the military side. 28 Days Later, Children of Men, The Unit. Government agencies running unchecked, running their own agenda.
Now I know this is fiction-based material, with the notable few exceptions (Flash of Genius), but the creative possibilities mixed with true stories bring up rabbit-trail line of thinking.
And based on my experience, it won't be too long before the quote "And I can see Russia from my house," by Tina Fey impersonating Sarah Palin becomes fully attributed to the Governor. Because we know who the real bad guys are.
It's companies. Conglomerates. Look at tv. Lost. Fringe. Prison Break. Movies: Resident Evil, Blindness, Flash of Genius. The bad guy is some non-descript corporate entity bent on covering up mistakes or maximizing profits and power.
Coming up in the chain is governments, particularly the military side. 28 Days Later, Children of Men, The Unit. Government agencies running unchecked, running their own agenda.
Now I know this is fiction-based material, with the notable few exceptions (Flash of Genius), but the creative possibilities mixed with true stories bring up rabbit-trail line of thinking.
And based on my experience, it won't be too long before the quote "And I can see Russia from my house," by Tina Fey impersonating Sarah Palin becomes fully attributed to the Governor. Because we know who the real bad guys are.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Your Moment of Zen
Still on the political kick...
Like 95% of my generation, I get most of my political facts and decision making information from The Daily Show on Comedy Central. Their unbiased reporting condenses the main points of the candidates and illuminates the clarity of traditional political double-speak. Just kidding about the first part. TDS really does a good job at lambasting both sides, not just one or the other. It just depends on which side is making the most mistakes. Right now it's the Republicans.
What I don't care for is the breadth of political "pundits" that sit on the sidelines offering no real benefit to advancing the political process. Since journalists should be objective and unbiased, they are left with describing the success or failure of their presentation of answers. I would think that the viewers would be able to see that for themselves.
I would like to see the "pundits" replaced with people that are normal people. Let's see what they think of the responses. Did they make sense? Who's blowing smoke and who's doing something? Who attacks and deflects rather than makes a point? Maybe if that happens more people will actually turn out and vote because they are being connected to. We're not all touring the lecture circuit or working full-time as a political consultant.
Like 95% of my generation, I get most of my political facts and decision making information from The Daily Show on Comedy Central. Their unbiased reporting condenses the main points of the candidates and illuminates the clarity of traditional political double-speak. Just kidding about the first part. TDS really does a good job at lambasting both sides, not just one or the other. It just depends on which side is making the most mistakes. Right now it's the Republicans.
What I don't care for is the breadth of political "pundits" that sit on the sidelines offering no real benefit to advancing the political process. Since journalists should be objective and unbiased, they are left with describing the success or failure of their presentation of answers. I would think that the viewers would be able to see that for themselves.
I would like to see the "pundits" replaced with people that are normal people. Let's see what they think of the responses. Did they make sense? Who's blowing smoke and who's doing something? Who attacks and deflects rather than makes a point? Maybe if that happens more people will actually turn out and vote because they are being connected to. We're not all touring the lecture circuit or working full-time as a political consultant.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
"You got to stand for something, or you'll fall for anythang," Aaron Tippen
Seth Godin has another *ding* moment. What makes this country great is the ability to find/do/enable/act/believe/endorse/be whatever is permissible by law and our Constitution.
Unfortunately, our political parties, however fundamentally different, seem to be the same. Completely non-committal, confusing, and horrifically purposeless. In effort to appeal to the masses, they (the candidates) are trying to not offend the masses. Questions are answered long-winded like a US History test when you don't know the answer. Lack of knowledge is never trumped by verbose ambiguity.
I predict this year's election will be the lowest voter turnout because the candidates seem apathetic to the masses. They are more concerned with the Washington Two-Step and avoiding "embarrassing" (since when are beliefs/morals embarrassing?) soundbites that will be used on The Daily Show.
To candidates: Answer the questions succinctly and simply. Foreign policy? How about domestic policy? What are the candidates going to do for the people of the US? Pro-choice or pro-life? That doesn't really matter because the POTUS doesn't make laws (check & balances simplified point) and has nothing to do with running the country. It's our Senators and House of Reps responsibility to make the laws. They are the ones who need to answer that question.
Many people are arguing our economy needs to be fixed. How about we fix the political party process while we're at it? Neither of the current candidates really will do the best job. The American public is stuck with the lesser of two evils.
What do I suggest? How about American Idol + The Apprentice style election? Seriously. A 20-week process where we learn about the candidates. After the first 10 weeks ends, "We the People" begin voting off the ones we don't like. Of course this depends on the accuracy of our voting process and the Electoral College. Eliminate the "Campaign Trail" and give the people access to candidates lives by showing how much time they spend with the real movers and shakers ($$$$). IDK, it's just an idea.
Unfortunately, our political parties, however fundamentally different, seem to be the same. Completely non-committal, confusing, and horrifically purposeless. In effort to appeal to the masses, they (the candidates) are trying to not offend the masses. Questions are answered long-winded like a US History test when you don't know the answer. Lack of knowledge is never trumped by verbose ambiguity.
I predict this year's election will be the lowest voter turnout because the candidates seem apathetic to the masses. They are more concerned with the Washington Two-Step and avoiding "embarrassing" (since when are beliefs/morals embarrassing?) soundbites that will be used on The Daily Show.
To candidates: Answer the questions succinctly and simply. Foreign policy? How about domestic policy? What are the candidates going to do for the people of the US? Pro-choice or pro-life? That doesn't really matter because the POTUS doesn't make laws (check & balances simplified point) and has nothing to do with running the country. It's our Senators and House of Reps responsibility to make the laws. They are the ones who need to answer that question.
Many people are arguing our economy needs to be fixed. How about we fix the political party process while we're at it? Neither of the current candidates really will do the best job. The American public is stuck with the lesser of two evils.
What do I suggest? How about American Idol + The Apprentice style election? Seriously. A 20-week process where we learn about the candidates. After the first 10 weeks ends, "We the People" begin voting off the ones we don't like. Of course this depends on the accuracy of our voting process and the Electoral College. Eliminate the "Campaign Trail" and give the people access to candidates lives by showing how much time they spend with the real movers and shakers ($$$$). IDK, it's just an idea.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Ivy League, Ivory Tower?
I usually read Chris Anderson's Long Tail blog. Two weeks he posted a reaction to this, the composition of creating blockbusters, from a Harvard professor.
While I only have a single collegiate degree, I can surmise my views of John Quelch's position could easily be dismissed.
Quelch means well, in the regard that all companies should strive to create "Blockbusters" for products. However, if all that is produced is blockbusters, then eventually nothing becomes blockbusters. There's no way to differentiate. Add to that is the general blockbuster is a lowest common denominator product. Blockbusters are successful because they appeal to the masses.
Quelch's "requirements" for blockbusters don't exactly break new ground in creating products worthy of the market. My comments in italics.
1. Sheer size. A blockbuster has a transformational impact on a company and an industry, often opening up new markets worldwide. Blockbusters break sales records and exceed expectations. Around 100 pharmaceutical brands exceed $1 billion in annual sales. Procter & Gamble has 23 such brands. Like Chris' explanation before, this is a definition of blockbuster.
2. Speed. It's not just the sales volume; it's the speed of the sales trajectory. Remember that the original blockbuster was a bomb that could destroy an entire city block. Blockbuster brands address pressing consumer needs so well that they often enjoy vertical sales liftoff. Think Viagra. I believe speed is a result of marketing, not a product. It also has to do with market delivery.
3. Scarcity. A blockbuster brand is often in such high demand that stock-outs and shortages occur in the market. Remember the consumer lines to buy the new iPhone? As imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the speedy availability of counterfeits is another indicator of popularity. Don't think so, Q. If a product is scarce, then it is unable to bring in revenue until the next delivery. And then it runs out again. And the cycle repeats. So instead of one giant skyscraper dominating the market landscape, you have a bunch of 50-story buildings. Counterfeits don't only indicate popularity, they also indicate gullible consumers, overpriced products, and lack of competition.
4. Sustainability. A blockbuster brand is not a one hit wonder. It is a gift that keeps on giving. Remember Intel's Pentium chip. Or look at the seven Harry Potter books and five companion movies. Adding DVD and merchandise sales, theme parks, etc., Advertising Age valued the Potter economy at $15 billion. Um...yeah. A blockbuster is not sustainable. If a blockbuster continues to grow as the market grows, it's an under-utilized market. A blockbuster brand is a one-hit wonder. If it isn't then it's a monopoly.
5. Sizzle. A blockbuster does not just address an important need. It does so in an exciting and accessible way. Pfizer's Lipitor was not the first cholesterol reducer but superior marketing and sales made Lipitor number one. And in the movie world, think of the magical and memorable special effects in the Star Wars series. Again, this is called marketing.
While I only have a single collegiate degree, I can surmise my views of John Quelch's position could easily be dismissed.
Quelch means well, in the regard that all companies should strive to create "Blockbusters" for products. However, if all that is produced is blockbusters, then eventually nothing becomes blockbusters. There's no way to differentiate. Add to that is the general blockbuster is a lowest common denominator product. Blockbusters are successful because they appeal to the masses.
Quelch's "requirements" for blockbusters don't exactly break new ground in creating products worthy of the market. My comments in italics.
1. Sheer size. A blockbuster has a transformational impact on a company and an industry, often opening up new markets worldwide. Blockbusters break sales records and exceed expectations. Around 100 pharmaceutical brands exceed $1 billion in annual sales. Procter & Gamble has 23 such brands. Like Chris' explanation before, this is a definition of blockbuster.
2. Speed. It's not just the sales volume; it's the speed of the sales trajectory. Remember that the original blockbuster was a bomb that could destroy an entire city block. Blockbuster brands address pressing consumer needs so well that they often enjoy vertical sales liftoff. Think Viagra. I believe speed is a result of marketing, not a product. It also has to do with market delivery.
3. Scarcity. A blockbuster brand is often in such high demand that stock-outs and shortages occur in the market. Remember the consumer lines to buy the new iPhone? As imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the speedy availability of counterfeits is another indicator of popularity. Don't think so, Q. If a product is scarce, then it is unable to bring in revenue until the next delivery. And then it runs out again. And the cycle repeats. So instead of one giant skyscraper dominating the market landscape, you have a bunch of 50-story buildings. Counterfeits don't only indicate popularity, they also indicate gullible consumers, overpriced products, and lack of competition.
4. Sustainability. A blockbuster brand is not a one hit wonder. It is a gift that keeps on giving. Remember Intel's Pentium chip. Or look at the seven Harry Potter books and five companion movies. Adding DVD and merchandise sales, theme parks, etc., Advertising Age valued the Potter economy at $15 billion. Um...yeah. A blockbuster is not sustainable. If a blockbuster continues to grow as the market grows, it's an under-utilized market. A blockbuster brand is a one-hit wonder. If it isn't then it's a monopoly.
5. Sizzle. A blockbuster does not just address an important need. It does so in an exciting and accessible way. Pfizer's Lipitor was not the first cholesterol reducer but superior marketing and sales made Lipitor number one. And in the movie world, think of the magical and memorable special effects in the Star Wars series. Again, this is called marketing.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
(movie guy voice) In a world without...
Don LaFontaine. The man who did the majority of movie trailer voiceovers has died.
Overall, I think there were two or three guys who did 99% of movie trailer voiceovers. What a voice.
Overall, I think there were two or three guys who did 99% of movie trailer voiceovers. What a voice.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Rambling thoughts...
I rabbit trailed a bit online tonight. It's a fun exercise to do. Basically, if you're reading a topic online, say, an article about Michael Phelps and his training regimen on the Butterfly, look up the Butterfly stroke in Wikipedia. Learn the history of it. Then read about the swimmer who invented the stroke. So on and so forth. An hour later, you've stumbled across the Soviet Union's plan for US invasion and world domination.
No, not really, but that's kinda what happens with rabbit trails.
I was reading a poll result and wanted to know what "Mosaics" are. Turns out they are the young generation, Generation Y or Generation Echo- the kids of boomers. Reading further, I thought of the typical stereotypes associated with generations, particularly Gen X (me). A shiftless, loners, apathetic, low loyalty generation that supposedly has no future. Economically, Gen Xers are making less than generations before them, the first time in history a generation is not better off. Gen Xers are left with cleaning up the mistakes of the past (which generation hasn't?).
Some of this is ironic, considering I remember reading about Gen X a long time ago. It was a doomed generation from the get-go according to the "experts". Baby boomers led the charge in technology achievements. Apple, Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, Sun, etc, started in the 70s and 80s as technology made advancements.
If you look at the computer applications we use daily: Google, Wikipedia, YouTube, Amazon.com, Twitter, MySpace... all Gen Xer founded/led. A generation that grew up alone (we're also the latchkey generation), watching TV and cartoons, we've suddenly created a virtual neighborhood where we can make friends across the world.
Look at us now, world. We're leading the charge to connect to millions. We define who and what comes into our lives, and we decide when. We have so much information available and are connected so well that we are an honest generation. If a leader falters, there is no hiding it. If an athlete cheats, news is out before a statement can be made. We've built such a network that soon instantaneous won't be fast enough. Secrets can't be hid. If they are, they will destroy the trust of millions.
Of course, in true Gen X fashion, it will be forgotten shortly. Like if you're still reading this, you're likely not a Gen Xer. 'Cause we got short attention spans from watching TV in short bursts on MTV, ESPN, or whatever. Rabbit trail... I don't agree with MTV claiming people don't want music videos... ESPN still shows sports! I don't see a reality show on Making the Yankees! Crap, that's prolly all up in Steinbrenner's office now. Or maybe it's now "Manipulated TV" instead of Music Television.
No, not really, but that's kinda what happens with rabbit trails.
I was reading a poll result and wanted to know what "Mosaics" are. Turns out they are the young generation, Generation Y or Generation Echo- the kids of boomers. Reading further, I thought of the typical stereotypes associated with generations, particularly Gen X (me). A shiftless, loners, apathetic, low loyalty generation that supposedly has no future. Economically, Gen Xers are making less than generations before them, the first time in history a generation is not better off. Gen Xers are left with cleaning up the mistakes of the past (which generation hasn't?).
Some of this is ironic, considering I remember reading about Gen X a long time ago. It was a doomed generation from the get-go according to the "experts". Baby boomers led the charge in technology achievements. Apple, Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, Sun, etc, started in the 70s and 80s as technology made advancements.
If you look at the computer applications we use daily: Google, Wikipedia, YouTube, Amazon.com, Twitter, MySpace... all Gen Xer founded/led. A generation that grew up alone (we're also the latchkey generation), watching TV and cartoons, we've suddenly created a virtual neighborhood where we can make friends across the world.
Look at us now, world. We're leading the charge to connect to millions. We define who and what comes into our lives, and we decide when. We have so much information available and are connected so well that we are an honest generation. If a leader falters, there is no hiding it. If an athlete cheats, news is out before a statement can be made. We've built such a network that soon instantaneous won't be fast enough. Secrets can't be hid. If they are, they will destroy the trust of millions.
Of course, in true Gen X fashion, it will be forgotten shortly. Like if you're still reading this, you're likely not a Gen Xer. 'Cause we got short attention spans from watching TV in short bursts on MTV, ESPN, or whatever. Rabbit trail... I don't agree with MTV claiming people don't want music videos... ESPN still shows sports! I don't see a reality show on Making the Yankees! Crap, that's prolly all up in Steinbrenner's office now. Or maybe it's now "Manipulated TV" instead of Music Television.
So glad I support AT&T/Jeff Burton
I think I'm done with the Sprint/Nextel/Little Tykes/Pampers Cup Series. Here's why.
I'm terribly sorry that Kyle Busch, a driver with tremendous talent and a top tier ride, is a complete pansy. That's being polite. I kinda wish he was the driver at the beginning of last year.
Kyle happens to be part of that inevitable public eye, where everything he says is recorded. And many things happen to come out of his mouth in the heat of the moment, so sometimes you just have to laugh.
But Kyle, pay attention. You wrecked Johnny Benson, with no respect to his team's place in the series. In a series you aren't running for points, just wins, you had this to say:
"My move is probably a pretty stupid move, people will call it," Busch said on Fox. "But I'm a racer and I'm going after another spot. I'm not happy with a third-place finish. I'm going to go for second if I got a spot I think I can get for second. Obviously, stuff happens on the race track that happens on a race track. That's how I see it."
If somebody raced a Cup race and took out Kyle (purposeful or accidental), the media would never hear the end of it.
Carl Edwards ran a traditional "bump-and-run" at Bristol. With 30 laps to go. You're telling me, Kyle, that a bump with 30 laps to go derailed your victory? Hardly. You don't like the way Carl raced you? Guess what? There are probably 30 teams between the Trucks, Nationwide, and Cup series that don't like racing you.
Here's the kicker: NASCAR, in it's new Eastern Thinking (ya, I went there), decided to put both Kyle and Carl on probation for the post-race activity. Sure, Carl retaliated and spun Kyle out, but that was after two big hits Kyle put on Carl. Bristol is like this. NASCAR knows Kyle is a hot head, and he's used the cool down lap, aka sucker-punch, before, been fined $50,000 for throwing his HANS device at another racer. It's time to grow up and accept you can't win every race, Kyle. Short track racing is a contact sport.
I'm terribly sorry that Kyle Busch, a driver with tremendous talent and a top tier ride, is a complete pansy. That's being polite. I kinda wish he was the driver at the beginning of last year.
Kyle happens to be part of that inevitable public eye, where everything he says is recorded. And many things happen to come out of his mouth in the heat of the moment, so sometimes you just have to laugh.
But Kyle, pay attention. You wrecked Johnny Benson, with no respect to his team's place in the series. In a series you aren't running for points, just wins, you had this to say:
"My move is probably a pretty stupid move, people will call it," Busch said on Fox. "But I'm a racer and I'm going after another spot. I'm not happy with a third-place finish. I'm going to go for second if I got a spot I think I can get for second. Obviously, stuff happens on the race track that happens on a race track. That's how I see it."
If somebody raced a Cup race and took out Kyle (purposeful or accidental), the media would never hear the end of it.
Carl Edwards ran a traditional "bump-and-run" at Bristol. With 30 laps to go. You're telling me, Kyle, that a bump with 30 laps to go derailed your victory? Hardly. You don't like the way Carl raced you? Guess what? There are probably 30 teams between the Trucks, Nationwide, and Cup series that don't like racing you.
Here's the kicker: NASCAR, in it's new Eastern Thinking (ya, I went there), decided to put both Kyle and Carl on probation for the post-race activity. Sure, Carl retaliated and spun Kyle out, but that was after two big hits Kyle put on Carl. Bristol is like this. NASCAR knows Kyle is a hot head, and he's used the cool down lap, aka sucker-punch, before, been fined $50,000 for throwing his HANS device at another racer. It's time to grow up and accept you can't win every race, Kyle. Short track racing is a contact sport.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
"I know him!" (Elf)
Perusing YouTube and found this gem:
You get the feel of the canyon. And other racers. Listen to a few at the beginning, but then skip to the last 20 seconds or so. You'll hear it before you see it (barely see it, too). And it sounds awesome, even without hi-def recording.
And there are more vids, I'll see what else is around.
You get the feel of the canyon. And other racers. Listen to a few at the beginning, but then skip to the last 20 seconds or so. You'll hear it before you see it (barely see it, too). And it sounds awesome, even without hi-def recording.
And there are more vids, I'll see what else is around.
Friday, August 22, 2008
"I want my MTV!"
Apparently Canada and/or Europe has ala carte cable channels. The powers that be here in the US say it's impossible to do. Smaller, less-subscribed channels would loose ad revenue because they'd have to charge less because a smaller viewer share.
Eeeeeeennnnh! Want to go for Double Jeopardy where the game can really change?
Right now cable packages are carrying along these "weaker" (business Darwinism) channels. Being part of package A, B, C, etc., a media company can sell time on smaller channels, claiming "over 25 million subscribers to this channel" and it won't be a lie. The problem can be only 300 people watch the channel. Or something statistically insignificant based on Nielsen ratings.
But here's the kicker with ala carte packages: The people who subscribe to these channels will watch them. It will be a more focused and targeted advertising because the advertisers will be actually reaching who they want. No blind shotgun approach, or a guess to who's watching.
Regardless of ratings and demographics, in today's media environment there is no concrete method to tell what people are actually watching. Tivo, yes. But how many homes have Tivo/DVR in overall TV-watching homes? I think if I dig deep enough, I'll find some evidence of young viewers melding today's media- cable, internet, cell- which I've seen a few advertisers try to accomplish.
However, a target-market focused campaign will be more effective if advertisers know exactly who is watching. Sure, it won't be cheap (inexpensive), but reaching who you want isn't.
Eeeeeeennnnh! Want to go for Double Jeopardy where the game can really change?
Right now cable packages are carrying along these "weaker" (business Darwinism) channels. Being part of package A, B, C, etc., a media company can sell time on smaller channels, claiming "over 25 million subscribers to this channel" and it won't be a lie. The problem can be only 300 people watch the channel. Or something statistically insignificant based on Nielsen ratings.
But here's the kicker with ala carte packages: The people who subscribe to these channels will watch them. It will be a more focused and targeted advertising because the advertisers will be actually reaching who they want. No blind shotgun approach, or a guess to who's watching.
Regardless of ratings and demographics, in today's media environment there is no concrete method to tell what people are actually watching. Tivo, yes. But how many homes have Tivo/DVR in overall TV-watching homes? I think if I dig deep enough, I'll find some evidence of young viewers melding today's media- cable, internet, cell- which I've seen a few advertisers try to accomplish.
However, a target-market focused campaign will be more effective if advertisers know exactly who is watching. Sure, it won't be cheap (inexpensive), but reaching who you want isn't.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Dangnabit
I had a sweet blog post running through my head while driving, but forgot to write it down when I had it. Don't you hate that? I do remember that it would have been a long post.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
"Your mission, should you choose to accept it..." (MI)
Reading some blogs this morning and ran across this from John Chandler:
In The Forgotten Ways, Alan Hirsch describes this community of shared mission as communitas:
“Communitas is therefore always linked with the experience of liminality. It involves adventure and movement, and it describes that unique experience of togetherness that only really happens among a group of people inspired by the vision of a better world who actually attempt to do something about it.” (pg 221)
The church exists as an agent of the Kingdom of God. Our mission is to make the way of Jesus known…to put Life on display. Rather than hold on to the phrase doing life together, I am holding on to the idea of being life together. For me, this captures the idea that community, or communitas, must be relationships that are focused on a shared mission. Our relationships are not exclusively focused in toward each other, but alongside each other as Life is demonstrated.
I think even if Christianese adopts "Being Life Together" as the catch-all mission, the phrase still sends the message of Christian is a club, civic group, elitist group. That's why I think "Connecting people to Life" is a great mission because it's outward focused and actionable. "Being Life Together" is more of the objective of small groups or support ministries.
In The Forgotten Ways, Alan Hirsch describes this community of shared mission as communitas:
“Communitas is therefore always linked with the experience of liminality. It involves adventure and movement, and it describes that unique experience of togetherness that only really happens among a group of people inspired by the vision of a better world who actually attempt to do something about it.” (pg 221)
The church exists as an agent of the Kingdom of God. Our mission is to make the way of Jesus known…to put Life on display. Rather than hold on to the phrase doing life together, I am holding on to the idea of being life together. For me, this captures the idea that community, or communitas, must be relationships that are focused on a shared mission. Our relationships are not exclusively focused in toward each other, but alongside each other as Life is demonstrated.
I think even if Christianese adopts "Being Life Together" as the catch-all mission, the phrase still sends the message of Christian is a club, civic group, elitist group. That's why I think "Connecting people to Life" is a great mission because it's outward focused and actionable. "Being Life Together" is more of the objective of small groups or support ministries.
Monday, August 4, 2008
CNN Masters of Geography
CNN does have some brainiacs. Headlines missing prepositions. And a current realignment of continents in the worse case of continental drift I've seen. Apparently Washington is somewhere in the Midwest, near the Great Lakes region. I know Lake Washington is breathtaking, but I don't think it falls within the definition of "Great Lakes" most people accept.
Blog title goes here.
A story published by a central news agency* talked about the segregation still present in churches. I find it hard to believe it is still solely a racial thing. People usually go to the churches their parents go to. It's a comfort thing; but that's speculation.
I don't have hard facts. I didn't read the whole article. The authors (don't even know if it was one, two, or the ubiquitous et. al.) seem intent on showing everyone how racist we (America) still is.
If the media brings up a topic constantly, that's all the public will ever see. I'm not saying America doesn't have a racial problem, but if everyone points out the spot on your shirt, that's all you'll ever see. I'm saying the public will always see the problem, whether it exists or not, and nothing more. No solution. No alternative. No questions.
When the "problem" arises in our own life, we tend to be hyper-sensitive and focus on the perception of the "problem" rather than being ourselves and conducting relationships with the utmost character and integrity.
I don't mean to trivialize racism, as it is a horrible scar to bear in history, but think about this: Pete Rose. What was he- a gambler or baseball player? And how do you know this?
*no link because it will cement the notion as fact.
I don't have hard facts. I didn't read the whole article. The authors (don't even know if it was one, two, or the ubiquitous et. al.) seem intent on showing everyone how racist we (America) still is.
If the media brings up a topic constantly, that's all the public will ever see. I'm not saying America doesn't have a racial problem, but if everyone points out the spot on your shirt, that's all you'll ever see. I'm saying the public will always see the problem, whether it exists or not, and nothing more. No solution. No alternative. No questions.
When the "problem" arises in our own life, we tend to be hyper-sensitive and focus on the perception of the "problem" rather than being ourselves and conducting relationships with the utmost character and integrity.
I don't mean to trivialize racism, as it is a horrible scar to bear in history, but think about this: Pete Rose. What was he- a gambler or baseball player? And how do you know this?
*no link because it will cement the notion as fact.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
O. M. G. Yes times 8.
May 1st of next year. Possible run at The Dark Knight.
One issue: prequels don't work that great considering actors age. I like the casting of John Huston as Striker, he's always looked malicious.
One issue: prequels don't work that great considering actors age. I like the casting of John Huston as Striker, he's always looked malicious.
10 Top Pet Peeves
10) Texting or calling during inappropriate times
9) Leaving your cell phone on, or checking your cell phone, at movies
8) Overstuffed & multiple carry-on bags on airplanes
7) Driving slow when you're lost
6) People who don't know how to merge
5) People trying to be Lance Armstrong on a busy weekend trail. Use a road.
4) Minivans, SUVs, and the like rarely getting pulled over for speeding
3) Loud people at movies or the theater
2) People who can't use, or overuse (40+ item person, that's you), the self-pay lines at stores
1) Department store layouts. Not guy-friendly. The first department store to put the men's department right at the front entrance, staffed by people who are helpful when asked, will probably have a large male customer base.
9) Leaving your cell phone on, or checking your cell phone, at movies
8) Overstuffed & multiple carry-on bags on airplanes
7) Driving slow when you're lost
6) People who don't know how to merge
5) People trying to be Lance Armstrong on a busy weekend trail. Use a road.
4) Minivans, SUVs, and the like rarely getting pulled over for speeding
3) Loud people at movies or the theater
2) People who can't use, or overuse (40+ item person, that's you), the self-pay lines at stores
1) Department store layouts. Not guy-friendly. The first department store to put the men's department right at the front entrance, staffed by people who are helpful when asked, will probably have a large male customer base.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
"What are you doing?" (Step Brothers)
So NASCAR Sprint Cup had (and still do) a problem Sunday. Tire problems resulted in a poor racing atmosphere.
People go to racing to be entertained, and most go for wrecks. For this last race at Indy, Goodyear brought a tire unable to handle the pavement at Indy, which is specially treated for Indycars which travel 30-40 mph faster than a Cup car. The tires were getting chewed up within 5 laps for some teams, then explode if not taken off the car. Indy has grooves in the pavement which help open-wheel cars, but severely hurt heavy stock cars. And I'm sure the suspension style of Cup cars also add to the abusiveness of the tire.
End result was a very boring and caution-filled race full of uncertainty for teams. Will people come back next year to Indy? Some may not, since this isn't the first time Indy had tire trouble. They need to fix this now, and not hope it will be fixed next year.
To mend the fences, here's what I think NASCAR & Goodyear should do:
1) At the end of September, NASCAR Cup is at Kansas Speedway. Indianapolis is less than 500 miles away. Thursday and Friday needs to be a tire test where Goodyear comes prepared.
2) Only the top 25 teams are allowed to test.
3) Friday afternoon the speedway opens the gates for spectators (FREE), and based on practice speeds, the cars are lined up for a 50-75 lap shootout.
4) NASCAR, Goodyear, and whoever else feels responsible for the debacle can put up $100k (minimum) for a purse, divided amongst the top 5 finishers.
Goodyear gets a good test. Racers should get a good tire. Fans get a show they were denied Sunday. Teams get another test session. And everyone can go to Kansas.
People go to racing to be entertained, and most go for wrecks. For this last race at Indy, Goodyear brought a tire unable to handle the pavement at Indy, which is specially treated for Indycars which travel 30-40 mph faster than a Cup car. The tires were getting chewed up within 5 laps for some teams, then explode if not taken off the car. Indy has grooves in the pavement which help open-wheel cars, but severely hurt heavy stock cars. And I'm sure the suspension style of Cup cars also add to the abusiveness of the tire.
End result was a very boring and caution-filled race full of uncertainty for teams. Will people come back next year to Indy? Some may not, since this isn't the first time Indy had tire trouble. They need to fix this now, and not hope it will be fixed next year.
To mend the fences, here's what I think NASCAR & Goodyear should do:
1) At the end of September, NASCAR Cup is at Kansas Speedway. Indianapolis is less than 500 miles away. Thursday and Friday needs to be a tire test where Goodyear comes prepared.
2) Only the top 25 teams are allowed to test.
3) Friday afternoon the speedway opens the gates for spectators (FREE), and based on practice speeds, the cars are lined up for a 50-75 lap shootout.
4) NASCAR, Goodyear, and whoever else feels responsible for the debacle can put up $100k (minimum) for a purse, divided amongst the top 5 finishers.
Goodyear gets a good test. Racers should get a good tire. Fans get a show they were denied Sunday. Teams get another test session. And everyone can go to Kansas.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
"I know how we can go down in history." (A River Runs Through It)
I read a Christian study a while ago and it painted the public's perception of Christians as judgmental, homophobic, hypocritical and too political. The sample set of the study was young non-Christians, so I took the results of the study under that filter.
1) Asking young people opinions is somewhat fruitless. They don't have a worldly view for the most part, and think they have all the answers. I know, I was one of these. Look at the rallies at college campuses. You don't see those at retirement homes, or your local senior rec center. Asking opinions only pinpoints the opinionated viewpoints that bolster stereotypes.
2) The presentation of the Gospel by some churches rival secular performances. Whether it be the worship set, video presentation, or pastors themselves, the accessibility of what today's leading churches are doing might have a negative impact on the very people they are trying to reach. The "full-throttle" approach goes so fast it passes over love, grace, and compassion.
I know pastors have an authoritative anointing (yeah, that's redundant) to spread the Gospel to the best of their ability and resources. To a non-believer, it is easier to dismiss a powerful and flawless presentation as grandstanding, or viewing a performance, rather than accepting truth, passion, and forgiveness.
Somehow the Church has to break down perceptions instantly and remove skepticism from a non-believer and still guide believers to further their walk. Obviously this is a problem for all churches, otherwise we'd all be busting at the seams. Find the why, then address the how.
1) Asking young people opinions is somewhat fruitless. They don't have a worldly view for the most part, and think they have all the answers. I know, I was one of these. Look at the rallies at college campuses. You don't see those at retirement homes, or your local senior rec center. Asking opinions only pinpoints the opinionated viewpoints that bolster stereotypes.
2) The presentation of the Gospel by some churches rival secular performances. Whether it be the worship set, video presentation, or pastors themselves, the accessibility of what today's leading churches are doing might have a negative impact on the very people they are trying to reach. The "full-throttle" approach goes so fast it passes over love, grace, and compassion.
I know pastors have an authoritative anointing (yeah, that's redundant) to spread the Gospel to the best of their ability and resources. To a non-believer, it is easier to dismiss a powerful and flawless presentation as grandstanding, or viewing a performance, rather than accepting truth, passion, and forgiveness.
Somehow the Church has to break down perceptions instantly and remove skepticism from a non-believer and still guide believers to further their walk. Obviously this is a problem for all churches, otherwise we'd all be busting at the seams. Find the why, then address the how.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
"Did you eat too many paint chips as a kid?" (Tommy Boy)
Is there a logical reason why road medians, little sidewalk runners, and various "greenbelts" have real grass? I can understand parks and large social areas having grass, but I'm looking at those odd grass placement areas. That little patch between the road and sidewalk. Why is that grass?
Grass has to be cut. Should get a nice coat of weed & feed each year, but probably doesn't. Needs to be watered often or it turns brown.
I propose that Field Turf be the replacement for grass in appearance-only areas. It doesn't need water, doesn't need to be mowed (saves labor, equipment, and safety costs), and it stays green all year round.
I'm sure some environmentalist study or group will say how much the grass produces "life" for animals and helps the ecosystem. Maybe it does. But could we try something else first? We're not replacing all the grass. And maybe Field Turf will work. Maybe an alternative in urban areas to "green" them up.
Grass has to be cut. Should get a nice coat of weed & feed each year, but probably doesn't. Needs to be watered often or it turns brown.
I propose that Field Turf be the replacement for grass in appearance-only areas. It doesn't need water, doesn't need to be mowed (saves labor, equipment, and safety costs), and it stays green all year round.
I'm sure some environmentalist study or group will say how much the grass produces "life" for animals and helps the ecosystem. Maybe it does. But could we try something else first? We're not replacing all the grass. And maybe Field Turf will work. Maybe an alternative in urban areas to "green" them up.
Friday, July 11, 2008
“Sake!” (The Last Samurai)
Sometimes movies can provide crucial lessons. I recently watched The Last Samurai and a number of things captured my attention. I cannot vouch for the accuracy of the depictions in the movie, so some things are only rely on the reality of Hollywood.
1) Every day, from the time they get up, the Japanese villagers are seen devoting their life to their way of life. Everything from servanthood to swordplay to tea ceremonies. Later in the movie the term to describe something so beyond themselves it was “life in every breath”, as the leader of the Samurai put it, bushidou.
2) The Samurai leader keeps captive the surviving American soldier to learn from him. Not only does he have the wisdom to keep his enemies closer, he also contains the compassion to recognize the American culture is not similar to the Japanese culture. Therefore the Samurai does not hold the American to the same cultural standard. He lets the foreigner learn the culture, and the American becomes embedded in the culture.
3) There is an air of mystery surrounding the Samurai, and it's just because the purpose of the Samurai is simple. Devote oneself to a higher purpose. The Samurai have a calling to serve the Emperor, who is mightier than all, even though there are times where the Emperor is led astray by selfish advisors.
4) Samurai means “to serve”, not warrior, or Japanese for soldier, as the American assumes. Understanding one's intent avoids misunderstanding and errors in judgment.
Can we apply these lessons to our own lives? Can we devote ourselves to God from the moment we wake up? Can we accept people for who they are and then let them join our culture? Can we serve a purpose greater than us, for a nation greater than we can fathom?
1) Every day, from the time they get up, the Japanese villagers are seen devoting their life to their way of life. Everything from servanthood to swordplay to tea ceremonies. Later in the movie the term to describe something so beyond themselves it was “life in every breath”, as the leader of the Samurai put it, bushidou.
2) The Samurai leader keeps captive the surviving American soldier to learn from him. Not only does he have the wisdom to keep his enemies closer, he also contains the compassion to recognize the American culture is not similar to the Japanese culture. Therefore the Samurai does not hold the American to the same cultural standard. He lets the foreigner learn the culture, and the American becomes embedded in the culture.
3) There is an air of mystery surrounding the Samurai, and it's just because the purpose of the Samurai is simple. Devote oneself to a higher purpose. The Samurai have a calling to serve the Emperor, who is mightier than all, even though there are times where the Emperor is led astray by selfish advisors.
4) Samurai means “to serve”, not warrior, or Japanese for soldier, as the American assumes. Understanding one's intent avoids misunderstanding and errors in judgment.
Can we apply these lessons to our own lives? Can we devote ourselves to God from the moment we wake up? Can we accept people for who they are and then let them join our culture? Can we serve a purpose greater than us, for a nation greater than we can fathom?
Sunday, July 6, 2008
"You got no imagination." (The Italian Job - 2003)
In the last ten years, Hollywood has made a lot of movies based on previous material, including many, many remakes. The newest one I've heard about is "The Day The Earth Stood Still" with Keanu Reeves. Rumor has it that the remake is missing the key figure that made the punchline in the original.
Simply stunning.
We have Ted Kaczynski's notebooks, plus countless other conspiracy theorists' (Freedom Act, internets, etc.) ideas. And Hollywood can't use ANY of those ideas and have to pilfer the vaults of classic movies?
Also, the new movie "My Best Friend's Girl" is kinda an anti-Hitch character. Kinda wish I was in on that idea pitch. [rolling eyes go here]
Simply stunning.
We have Ted Kaczynski's notebooks, plus countless other conspiracy theorists' (Freedom Act, internets, etc.) ideas. And Hollywood can't use ANY of those ideas and have to pilfer the vaults of classic movies?
Also, the new movie "My Best Friend's Girl" is kinda an anti-Hitch character. Kinda wish I was in on that idea pitch. [rolling eyes go here]
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
"That's some bad hat, Harry." (Jaws)
After a few months of thinking and planning, Kgor & I have came up with a new process for our projects. We were struggling with who wants what when. Get that? Sometimes our projects were launched from a creative meeting or staff meeting. It was up to us to remember to do those particular projects. We lacked a sustainable system.
The new system tackles some of our issues:
1. Content is required for projects. We can throw some words at the refrigerator, but only the requester knows the ins & outs. We can help punch stuff up and go through different wordings, but we can't create from scratch everything we produce.
2. Trackable. We've added project numbers to the requests. This helps us refer to a specific project. We can also see how many projects we do, total.
3. Project Status Update email. Currently we don't update the project owner of the status of projects. This new step will help clarify what's being done, what's to be done, and what is done. The tracking of projects will be easier with the addition of #'s, too.
4. Different request forms for different needs. Not all projects need the same information, that is, the same form. We have a Creative Brief for outreaches, Creative Project Request for ministry-specific needs (prints, handouts, etc.), and Facility Project Request for facility-only projects (signage, vinyl, etc).
Yesterday was the first time using the process. I added 12 projects to our list in the morning and that provides a more real picture of what is involved with certain outreaches/activities.
The new system tackles some of our issues:
1. Content is required for projects. We can throw some words at the refrigerator, but only the requester knows the ins & outs. We can help punch stuff up and go through different wordings, but we can't create from scratch everything we produce.
2. Trackable. We've added project numbers to the requests. This helps us refer to a specific project. We can also see how many projects we do, total.
3. Project Status Update email. Currently we don't update the project owner of the status of projects. This new step will help clarify what's being done, what's to be done, and what is done. The tracking of projects will be easier with the addition of #'s, too.
4. Different request forms for different needs. Not all projects need the same information, that is, the same form. We have a Creative Brief for outreaches, Creative Project Request for ministry-specific needs (prints, handouts, etc.), and Facility Project Request for facility-only projects (signage, vinyl, etc).
Yesterday was the first time using the process. I added 12 projects to our list in the morning and that provides a more real picture of what is involved with certain outreaches/activities.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Part 3, and final analysis of my personality test:
1. Independent Thinkers are analytical and witty persons. [Hmm. Pretty close.]
2. They are normally self-confident and do not let themselves get worked up by conflicts and criticism. [Sometimes.]
3. They are very much aware of their own strengths and have no doubts about their abilities. [True. Although that limits the "can-do" aspect.]
4. People of this personality type are often very successful in their career as they have both competence and purposefulness. [Hope so.]
5. Independent Thinkers are excellent strategists; logic, systematics and theoretical considerations are their world. [Looking at the big picture. Take a step back.]
6. They are eager for knowledge and always endeavour to expand and perfect their knowledge in any area which is interesting for them. [Yup, and that's why I have a MFoUK.]
7. Abstract thinking comes naturally to them; scientists and computer specialists are often of this type. [Can't tell you how many sentences I've started with "What if we do this..." or "What if we try..."]
1. Independent Thinkers are analytical and witty persons. [Hmm. Pretty close.]
2. They are normally self-confident and do not let themselves get worked up by conflicts and criticism. [Sometimes.]
3. They are very much aware of their own strengths and have no doubts about their abilities. [True. Although that limits the "can-do" aspect.]
4. People of this personality type are often very successful in their career as they have both competence and purposefulness. [Hope so.]
5. Independent Thinkers are excellent strategists; logic, systematics and theoretical considerations are their world. [Looking at the big picture. Take a step back.]
6. They are eager for knowledge and always endeavour to expand and perfect their knowledge in any area which is interesting for them. [Yup, and that's why I have a MFoUK.]
7. Abstract thinking comes naturally to them; scientists and computer specialists are often of this type. [Can't tell you how many sentences I've started with "What if we do this..." or "What if we try..."]
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
"What is that?! What is that?!" (Bruce Almighty)
How about taking a little detour with some poor signage. Read on:
Claritin: Package is clearly marked with a "Peel" indicator, yet the mumbo-jumbo on the back says "Read instructions before attempting to remove tablets." Hmmm. What if I just want to remove the tablets and not take them? Because removing little squishy tablets is so, so very difficult?
Sign at a house: "No Trespassing Without Permission." Excuse me, sir, can I trespass onto your property? Sure, and don't forget to throw some rocks through my windows and smash my mailbox.
I could probably find some more, but these are on the top of my thoughts. You can clearly tell I've spent a great deal of time dissecting them.
Related (sort of): AT&T text messaged me (free) telling me of WA's impending ban of cell phone usage without the aid of a hands-free device. Wouldn't it be better to add "Hey, buy online a hands-free device with coupon code XYZ for 15% off"?
Always give people an action.
Visit TheRockChurch.info and pad the numbers. Just kidding.
Claritin: Package is clearly marked with a "Peel" indicator, yet the mumbo-jumbo on the back says "Read instructions before attempting to remove tablets." Hmmm. What if I just want to remove the tablets and not take them? Because removing little squishy tablets is so, so very difficult?
Sign at a house: "No Trespassing Without Permission." Excuse me, sir, can I trespass onto your property? Sure, and don't forget to throw some rocks through my windows and smash my mailbox.
I could probably find some more, but these are on the top of my thoughts. You can clearly tell I've spent a great deal of time dissecting them.
Related (sort of): AT&T text messaged me (free) telling me of WA's impending ban of cell phone usage without the aid of a hands-free device. Wouldn't it be better to add "Hey, buy online a hands-free device with coupon code XYZ for 15% off"?
Always give people an action.
Visit TheRockChurch.info and pad the numbers. Just kidding.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
"It's what we do that defines us." (Batman Begins)
Here's part two of three on my personality analysis:
1. Independent Thinkers are specialists in their area. [Not me. I'm kinda a Jack-of-all-trades kinda guy]
2. The development of their ideas and visions is important to them; they love being as flexible as possible and, ideally, of being able to work alone because they often find it a strain having to make their complex trains of thought understandable to other people. [I understood that. I do not consider myself flexible, but I do try to think of solutions that can be applicable to many problems.]
3. Independent Thinkers cannot stand routine. [Hmmm. Routine works for me. But I like to change some up here and there. Like office reorganization every so often.]
4. Once they consider an idea to be good it is difficult to make them give it up; they pursue the implementation of that idea obstinately and persistently, also in the face of external opposition. [Part of this is from #2 above. Also the consideration is an in-depth analysis for the most part. It's not flipping a coin and going with whatever option comes up.]
1. Independent Thinkers are specialists in their area. [Not me. I'm kinda a Jack-of-all-trades kinda guy]
2. The development of their ideas and visions is important to them; they love being as flexible as possible and, ideally, of being able to work alone because they often find it a strain having to make their complex trains of thought understandable to other people. [I understood that. I do not consider myself flexible, but I do try to think of solutions that can be applicable to many problems.]
3. Independent Thinkers cannot stand routine. [Hmmm. Routine works for me. But I like to change some up here and there. Like office reorganization every so often.]
4. Once they consider an idea to be good it is difficult to make them give it up; they pursue the implementation of that idea obstinately and persistently, also in the face of external opposition. [Part of this is from #2 above. Also the consideration is an in-depth analysis for the most part. It's not flipping a coin and going with whatever option comes up.]
Monday, June 23, 2008
"Missed it by that much!" (Get Smart)
So I'm going to investigate the accuracy of the personality test I recently took (let's hear it for all the INTJ's in the house! Oh wait, there are only 3-4% of the US population). I'm going through the standard report I got and evaluate the main points of who I'm supposedly am. And of course you can tell who a person is off a personality test result (yes, that was sarcasm).
Here it goes:
1. Independent Thinkers are not the type who easily comes out of his shell. [It takes about 3 months for me.]
2. Speaking about their emotional life is also not one of their strong points. [Bury it deep down inside, and never bring it up again. Seriously, I'm analyzing emotions, which obviously aren't logical half the time.]
3. Anyway, social relationships are not particularly important to them; they are happy with just a few, close friends who find it easy to share their intellectual world. [Pretty true. It's not a clique, it's our little world.]
4. They find it difficult to establish new ties. [Maybe. Or maybe rejection sucks?]
5. In love, they need a lot of space and independence but this does not mean that their partner is not important to them. [Not always. Just when I have to visit her family. Perfect time for "needing" space.]
6. Independent Thinkers often make a cool and reserved impression on others; but this impression is deceptive: they can hardly bear it if people close to them should reject them. [See #4 above. And I don't really think myself as "cool".]
7. They prefer a harmonious, balanced relationship with a partner who shares their interests and with whom they can realise their visions. [Isn't that what we all want? Thank you Captain Obvious!]
Here it goes:
1. Independent Thinkers are not the type who easily comes out of his shell. [It takes about 3 months for me.]
2. Speaking about their emotional life is also not one of their strong points. [Bury it deep down inside, and never bring it up again. Seriously, I'm analyzing emotions, which obviously aren't logical half the time.]
3. Anyway, social relationships are not particularly important to them; they are happy with just a few, close friends who find it easy to share their intellectual world. [Pretty true. It's not a clique, it's our little world.]
4. They find it difficult to establish new ties. [Maybe. Or maybe rejection sucks?]
5. In love, they need a lot of space and independence but this does not mean that their partner is not important to them. [Not always. Just when I have to visit her family. Perfect time for "needing" space.]
6. Independent Thinkers often make a cool and reserved impression on others; but this impression is deceptive: they can hardly bear it if people close to them should reject them. [See #4 above. And I don't really think myself as "cool".]
7. They prefer a harmonious, balanced relationship with a partner who shares their interests and with whom they can realise their visions. [Isn't that what we all want? Thank you Captain Obvious!]
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
"I'm the Dragon Warrior?" (Kung-Fu Panda)
So my sister posted her personality type of "Groundbreaking Thinker" [edit: I incorrectly wrote the wrong title, thus, needed to correct it] and I thought I would do the same test. I like these tests; in fact, I've taken many tests like this, including the "official" test in my "Group Behavior & Teams" class at the UW. For the record I was Introverted, Intuitive, Thinker, Judging (INTJ).
My results:
Independent Thinker (IT)
Independent Thinkers are analytical and witty persons. They are normally self-confident and do not let themselves get worked up by conflicts and criticism. They are very much aware of their own strengths and have no doubts about their abilities. People of this personality type are often very successful in their career as they have both competence and purposefulness. Independent Thinkers are excellent strategists; logic, systematics and theoretical considerations are their world. They are eager for knowledge and always endeavour to expand and perfect their knowledge in any area which is interesting for them. Abstract thinking comes naturally to them; scientists and computer specialists are often of this type.
Independent Thinkers are specialists in their area. The development of their ideas and visions is important to them; they love being as flexible as possible and, ideally, of being able to work alone because they often find it a strain having to make their complex trains of thought understandable to other people. Independent Thinkers cannot stand routine. Once they consider an idea to be good it is difficult to make them give it up; they pursue the implementation of that idea obstinately and persistently, also in the face of external opposition.
Independent Thinkers are not the type who easily comes out of his shell. Speaking about their emotional life is also not one of their strong points. Anyway, social relationships are not particularly important to them; they are happy with just a few, close friends who find it easy to share their intellectual world. They find it difficult to establish new ties. In love, they need a lot of space and independence but this does not mean that their partner is not important to them. Independent Thinkers often make a cool and reserved impression on others; but this impression is deceptive: they can hardly bear it if people close to them should reject them. They prefer a harmonious, balanced relationship with a partner who shares their interests and with whom they can realise their visions.
Adjectives which describe your type
introverted, theoretical, logical, planning, rational, independent, intellectual, self-confident, analytical, structured, dogged, witty, resolute, self-critical, visionary, inventive, independent, unsociable, reserved, nonconformist, quiet, visionary, honest, demanding, hardworking
My results:
Independent Thinker (IT)
Independent Thinkers are analytical and witty persons. They are normally self-confident and do not let themselves get worked up by conflicts and criticism. They are very much aware of their own strengths and have no doubts about their abilities. People of this personality type are often very successful in their career as they have both competence and purposefulness. Independent Thinkers are excellent strategists; logic, systematics and theoretical considerations are their world. They are eager for knowledge and always endeavour to expand and perfect their knowledge in any area which is interesting for them. Abstract thinking comes naturally to them; scientists and computer specialists are often of this type.
Independent Thinkers are specialists in their area. The development of their ideas and visions is important to them; they love being as flexible as possible and, ideally, of being able to work alone because they often find it a strain having to make their complex trains of thought understandable to other people. Independent Thinkers cannot stand routine. Once they consider an idea to be good it is difficult to make them give it up; they pursue the implementation of that idea obstinately and persistently, also in the face of external opposition.
Independent Thinkers are not the type who easily comes out of his shell. Speaking about their emotional life is also not one of their strong points. Anyway, social relationships are not particularly important to them; they are happy with just a few, close friends who find it easy to share their intellectual world. They find it difficult to establish new ties. In love, they need a lot of space and independence but this does not mean that their partner is not important to them. Independent Thinkers often make a cool and reserved impression on others; but this impression is deceptive: they can hardly bear it if people close to them should reject them. They prefer a harmonious, balanced relationship with a partner who shares their interests and with whom they can realise their visions.
Adjectives which describe your type
introverted, theoretical, logical, planning, rational, independent, intellectual, self-confident, analytical, structured, dogged, witty, resolute, self-critical, visionary, inventive, independent, unsociable, reserved, nonconformist, quiet, visionary, honest, demanding, hardworking
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
"I thought that was closer." (Indiana Jones IV)
It's been over a month since I've really blogged. A lot of "strategery" going on. Some new things will be coming out to simplify reaching out to people and helping them on their journey.
And another revision to my pet project that ends with .info. 2 thumbs up!
And another revision to my pet project that ends with .info. 2 thumbs up!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
"Game over, man. Game over." (Aliens)
For those that know what I do, and my core skill set:
Do I stand next to the network printer, swiping the staff's printouts, proofreading and editing them before they even see them? No.
Do I read emails grammatically first and then correct the sender in proper usage of their, there, and they're? Yes.
Do I spend three hours proofreading video content, song lyrics, scripture references, ensuring that our core value of excellence is obtained? No. 5-10 minutes top.
If I did any of these tasks, would I be helping the ministry, making sure every piece of communication is of the highest caliber? Or would I be draining resources by having rework upon rework for the slightest errors? I proofread certain emails and documents simply on spelling and basic grammar because the content and message can be more powerful if the reader recognizes the author and knows it isn't a processed and slimmed package; devoid of emotion, honesty, and power.
We all make mistakes. I've made many, and some even while I write this. But that doesn't mean that the message is confusing (well, maybe with my rambling writing) or completely incomprehensible. My philosophy is our message needs to be just as polished and refined as every other idea out there fighting for space in a person's day. I'm thinking this is a goal to obtain in everything we do.
You only get one First Impression. Better make it count.
Do I stand next to the network printer, swiping the staff's printouts, proofreading and editing them before they even see them? No.
Do I read emails grammatically first and then correct the sender in proper usage of their, there, and they're? Yes.
Do I spend three hours proofreading video content, song lyrics, scripture references, ensuring that our core value of excellence is obtained? No. 5-10 minutes top.
If I did any of these tasks, would I be helping the ministry, making sure every piece of communication is of the highest caliber? Or would I be draining resources by having rework upon rework for the slightest errors? I proofread certain emails and documents simply on spelling and basic grammar because the content and message can be more powerful if the reader recognizes the author and knows it isn't a processed and slimmed package; devoid of emotion, honesty, and power.
We all make mistakes. I've made many, and some even while I write this. But that doesn't mean that the message is confusing (well, maybe with my rambling writing) or completely incomprehensible. My philosophy is our message needs to be just as polished and refined as every other idea out there fighting for space in a person's day. I'm thinking this is a goal to obtain in everything we do.
You only get one First Impression. Better make it count.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
"K-Mart sucks." (Rain Man)
Strategy. Strategery. Forward thinking. Long-term planning.
In corporate America, these terms are important to create a long lasting, and profitable, business. Studying business in America you will come across the traditional viewpoint that businesses in America have traditionally been short-sighted. That's the excuse why foreign companies have been able to come in and take over markets. Google the meaning of the "long tail" and you'll understand.
However, I was thinking today that the Church might have a dual mode when dealing with short-term and long-term positioning; or strategy. It must establish practices that can keep the organization sound- meaning adapt to growth, change directions when needed, all the while not losing the big picture.
The flip side is that the Church needs to remain culturally relevant in delivering content. Which is to say, keep up with the times. No easy task considering nothing "new" has been written regarding God & Jesus (that is readily accepted by the majority of theology scholars. But let's not open that box).
So what does a church do? Re-invent itself every 5-10 years? Hire a pastor with a goatee, or whatever fashionable look is in? Capitalize on new technology and abandon the "old school" way of doing church?
Or does it keep a majority of systems in place, only updating the area viewed by the public? Meaning services, children's ministry, worship, etc.
Today's information wave is faster than ever, and that is something that has to be included in today's strategy. What worked before won't work again with the same result. What's the strategy?
In corporate America, these terms are important to create a long lasting, and profitable, business. Studying business in America you will come across the traditional viewpoint that businesses in America have traditionally been short-sighted. That's the excuse why foreign companies have been able to come in and take over markets. Google the meaning of the "long tail" and you'll understand.
However, I was thinking today that the Church might have a dual mode when dealing with short-term and long-term positioning; or strategy. It must establish practices that can keep the organization sound- meaning adapt to growth, change directions when needed, all the while not losing the big picture.
The flip side is that the Church needs to remain culturally relevant in delivering content. Which is to say, keep up with the times. No easy task considering nothing "new" has been written regarding God & Jesus (that is readily accepted by the majority of theology scholars. But let's not open that box).
So what does a church do? Re-invent itself every 5-10 years? Hire a pastor with a goatee, or whatever fashionable look is in? Capitalize on new technology and abandon the "old school" way of doing church?
Or does it keep a majority of systems in place, only updating the area viewed by the public? Meaning services, children's ministry, worship, etc.
Today's information wave is faster than ever, and that is something that has to be included in today's strategy. What worked before won't work again with the same result. What's the strategy?
Friday, April 18, 2008
"That is correct" (Billy Madison)
Yes, I love those new MSN commercials. You know, the ones that end with:
No one wants to look dumb! (Okay, so I added the exclamation point)
My favorite (of the two I've seen) is the First Date, with the voiceover announcer mentioning such small-talk discussion topics as sub-prime interest rates or the origin of the word "sassafrass."
Related; will this campaign result in higher MSN.com brand awareness. No. "Hey Bob, Google 'no one wants to look dumb' video. They're hilarious!"
Maybe Google should do a spoof: "Don't call your customers dumb!"
Game. Set. Match.
No one wants to look dumb! (Okay, so I added the exclamation point)
My favorite (of the two I've seen) is the First Date, with the voiceover announcer mentioning such small-talk discussion topics as sub-prime interest rates or the origin of the word "sassafrass."
Related; will this campaign result in higher MSN.com brand awareness. No. "Hey Bob, Google 'no one wants to look dumb' video. They're hilarious!"
Maybe Google should do a spoof: "Don't call your customers dumb!"
Game. Set. Match.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
"And we're moving..." (Any spoof comedy)
Things to see at Mitosis 2008:
1) TRC Art Gallery. And yes, feel free to throw down some Benjamins for artwork.
2) LifeSavers Children's Ministry Classrooms. If you don't have kids, or they're already grown, check it out.
3) GRID 29:11. Let your 6th grade-College child hang out there on Friday nights. Or you can "chaperone". Wink wink. Nudge nudge.
4) Worship Center. See what is used to make everything come together.
And feel free to ask questions. We'll try to answer questions to the best of our ability. Whatever item strikes your fancy to get involved with, we now have a ConnectionGenius team to help.
1) TRC Art Gallery. And yes, feel free to throw down some Benjamins for artwork.
2) LifeSavers Children's Ministry Classrooms. If you don't have kids, or they're already grown, check it out.
3) GRID 29:11. Let your 6th grade-College child hang out there on Friday nights. Or you can "chaperone". Wink wink. Nudge nudge.
4) Worship Center. See what is used to make everything come together.
And feel free to ask questions. We'll try to answer questions to the best of our ability. Whatever item strikes your fancy to get involved with, we now have a ConnectionGenius team to help.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
"You shouldn't throw anything, Ed. Not with your back." (Ferris Bueller's Day Off)
Marketing. A term that has many definitions. In recruiting, "marketing" equals "sales." In business management, "marketing" is promotion, distribution, advertising, and sales. Note that all these words are not synonyms. Marketing is the whole kit & kaboodle (I don't even know what that means).
In a product's life, there is basically two umbrellas. Production and marketing. Unfortunately, if production results in a common good, more marketing is needed. Look at laundry detergent. A basic good market, yet there is millions of dollars of advertising spent to differentiate the products.
Contrast that with, say, Ferrari advertisements. In my life, I can't remember any sort of commercial or print advertisement for Ferraris- "Now get 2.9% financing on all 2007 599's." I just haven't seen it. True, Ferrari may target higher income mediums like Robb Report, or Cigar Aficanadio (yeah, I'm not even going to spell check that one), but its product is so upper-class that they don't need to advertise.
All-temperature Cheer, however, needs to All the help they can get, in order to Gain market share, turning the Tide for the Seventh Generation owners.
Yeah, I know that was a stretch. I just wanted to explore the word "marketing" as an overused term just on one point. I may revisit this, but for now I've said enough.
In a product's life, there is basically two umbrellas. Production and marketing. Unfortunately, if production results in a common good, more marketing is needed. Look at laundry detergent. A basic good market, yet there is millions of dollars of advertising spent to differentiate the products.
Contrast that with, say, Ferrari advertisements. In my life, I can't remember any sort of commercial or print advertisement for Ferraris- "Now get 2.9% financing on all 2007 599's." I just haven't seen it. True, Ferrari may target higher income mediums like Robb Report, or Cigar Aficanadio (yeah, I'm not even going to spell check that one), but its product is so upper-class that they don't need to advertise.
All-temperature Cheer, however, needs to All the help they can get, in order to Gain market share, turning the Tide for the Seventh Generation owners.
Yeah, I know that was a stretch. I just wanted to explore the word "marketing" as an overused term just on one point. I may revisit this, but for now I've said enough.
Monday, April 7, 2008
"I'm not invited to the thunket?" (America's Sweethearts)
Big test tomorrow for the #70. Over the last few days the crew have been putting in a lot of effort to prepare the car for this coming season. Saturday we spent all day cleaning the car, trailer, and pit equipment for Sunday's big release party (smashing success).
Today Pastor Jeff and I threw our baseline setup in the car, scaled it, and got it ready for practice. We have a lot going on this week- not just race cars, but (cue the Oprah voice) MITOSIS 2008 is here (end Oprah voice).
Mitosis just isn't a little bitty conference. It's HUGE. There's this little conference down in Dallas that happens every year. 5000+ church leaders go and learn and get ideas on how to reach seekers and non-believers.
If 5000 people go to that one, 10,000-20,000 should be coming to Mitosis (but luckily for our facility, there won't be 10,000 people. We'd need a lot more bathrooms!). It's an opportunity to see behind the scenes. It's about how a Sunday morning is done. Everyone has different ideas on how to pull off a "perfect" Sunday. And it's on a scale the majority of churches in America can grasp. Most who visit C3 in Dallas get overwhelmed and intimidated. They don't know where to start.
Mitosis 2008: Start Where You Are. We've been down that road of seeing something so unbelievable, we (Rock Church leaders)have spent the last 10-12 years building and learning and creating. Here is the opportunity to learn from a rural church that's made a tremendous impact in the surrounding region.
For our volunteers, it's an opportunity for everyone to see how every part, every passion, every person's effort, goes into making life change happen each and every Sunday.
If you haven't signed up for Mitosis, do so at MitosisConference.com. Call in sick Friday if you have to. I would.
Today Pastor Jeff and I threw our baseline setup in the car, scaled it, and got it ready for practice. We have a lot going on this week- not just race cars, but (cue the Oprah voice) MITOSIS 2008 is here (end Oprah voice).
Mitosis just isn't a little bitty conference. It's HUGE. There's this little conference down in Dallas that happens every year. 5000+ church leaders go and learn and get ideas on how to reach seekers and non-believers.
If 5000 people go to that one, 10,000-20,000 should be coming to Mitosis (but luckily for our facility, there won't be 10,000 people. We'd need a lot more bathrooms!). It's an opportunity to see behind the scenes. It's about how a Sunday morning is done. Everyone has different ideas on how to pull off a "perfect" Sunday. And it's on a scale the majority of churches in America can grasp. Most who visit C3 in Dallas get overwhelmed and intimidated. They don't know where to start.
Mitosis 2008: Start Where You Are. We've been down that road of seeing something so unbelievable, we (Rock Church leaders)have spent the last 10-12 years building and learning and creating. Here is the opportunity to learn from a rural church that's made a tremendous impact in the surrounding region.
For our volunteers, it's an opportunity for everyone to see how every part, every passion, every person's effort, goes into making life change happen each and every Sunday.
If you haven't signed up for Mitosis, do so at MitosisConference.com. Call in sick Friday if you have to. I would.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Fill in the blanks
What could you possibly imagine lie beneath the black boxes? Find out Sunday at The Rock Church.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
"Swing away, Merrill." (Signs)
These are not exactly new signs, but I noticed them today and really wondered what they meant.
I find it odd that we can't fully operate a phone while driving, but we can put up all sorts of signs along the road. Billboards, speed limits, speedzones, no passing, deer ahead, crosswalk ahead, school zone, merge, lane ends, railroad crossing, slow traffic stay right, chain area ahead, curves, steeps slope, duck crossing, wildlife preserve, spawning creek, natural habitat, milepost, scenic viewpoint ahead, no u-turn, left turn only from 4-6pm, carpool, carpool ends, bus route, truck route, bike route, cascade loop, adopt-a-highway, food ahead, gas ahead, tourist attraction ahead.
And now "Traffic Safety Corridor" gets put into that list (among many others I've missed). I'm all for safety and cautionary signs, but can we draw the line somewhere? Is a tourist going to see the TSC sign and instantly feel more safe driving the road? Will a parent? I doubt it.
I'm waiting for the "This road was once used by Bill Gates when he got a speeding infraction for 130mph in a 55mph zone" sign to go up in Redmond. Or "Shaun Alexander flat tire spot."
(rolling eyes)
I find it odd that we can't fully operate a phone while driving, but we can put up all sorts of signs along the road. Billboards, speed limits, speedzones, no passing, deer ahead, crosswalk ahead, school zone, merge, lane ends, railroad crossing, slow traffic stay right, chain area ahead, curves, steeps slope, duck crossing, wildlife preserve, spawning creek, natural habitat, milepost, scenic viewpoint ahead, no u-turn, left turn only from 4-6pm, carpool, carpool ends, bus route, truck route, bike route, cascade loop, adopt-a-highway, food ahead, gas ahead, tourist attraction ahead.
And now "Traffic Safety Corridor" gets put into that list (among many others I've missed). I'm all for safety and cautionary signs, but can we draw the line somewhere? Is a tourist going to see the TSC sign and instantly feel more safe driving the road? Will a parent? I doubt it.
I'm waiting for the "This road was once used by Bill Gates when he got a speeding infraction for 130mph in a 55mph zone" sign to go up in Redmond. Or "Shaun Alexander flat tire spot."
(rolling eyes)
Monday, March 24, 2008
"Hey everybody! Come see how good I look!" (Anchorman)
Check this out: http://habichradio.vox.com/. It's the result of many hours and late nights and too many runs to Lowe's Home Improvement. I'm sure there are some before pictures, but the after ones are simply stunning.
Tip 'o cap to all our great volunteers at The Rock for raising the atmosphere of the Children's Wing again, after many years of creating, dreaming and envisioning. Look at the leaps made in just the past five years!
And the carefully look at the bathrooms. Yes, those are in a church. Not The Metropolitan or El Gaucho or Salish (Washington State fancy places). In a church in the town of Monroe, the foothills of the Cascades.
To the critics (there always are some): They're called restrooms for a reason. We want people to feel at ease, not feel like they're at an outhouse. And it doesn't cost millions of dollars- a small change for big gain (I heard something like that from someone). And (how many English professors are cringing in my use of "and" thus far?) in the words of Ikea: you don't have to be rich, just smart.
Tip 'o cap to all our great volunteers at The Rock for raising the atmosphere of the Children's Wing again, after many years of creating, dreaming and envisioning. Look at the leaps made in just the past five years!
And the carefully look at the bathrooms. Yes, those are in a church. Not The Metropolitan or El Gaucho or Salish (Washington State fancy places). In a church in the town of Monroe, the foothills of the Cascades.
To the critics (there always are some): They're called restrooms for a reason. We want people to feel at ease, not feel like they're at an outhouse. And it doesn't cost millions of dollars- a small change for big gain (I heard something like that from someone). And (how many English professors are cringing in my use of "and" thus far?) in the words of Ikea: you don't have to be rich, just smart.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
"It's Not Over." (Daughtry)
Easter services have come and gone. It was a huge success. Some highlights:
1) Awesome stage redesign
2) Awesome videos
3) Awesome music- the band ripped it with so much energy and joy!
4) Band nailed "It's Not Over" from Daughtry
5) Pastor Jeff's message about it's not over, there's two days before the BIG miracle. Don't give up, you might be in the two days!
And that completes my week blog (except for Saturday which I spent nearly all day setting up lighting).
Happy Easter everyone!
1) Awesome stage redesign
2) Awesome videos
3) Awesome music- the band ripped it with so much energy and joy!
4) Band nailed "It's Not Over" from Daughtry
5) Pastor Jeff's message about it's not over, there's two days before the BIG miracle. Don't give up, you might be in the two days!
And that completes my week blog (except for Saturday which I spent nearly all day setting up lighting).
Happy Easter everyone!
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