QUESTION
You are given two ropes and a lighter.
This is the only equipment you can use.
You are told that each of the two ropes has the following property -- if you light one end of the rope, it will take exactly one hour to burn all the way to the other end.
But it doesn't have to burn at a uniform rate. In other words, half the rope may burn in the first five minutes, and then the other half would take 55 minutes.
The rate at which the two ropes burn is not necessarily the same, so the second rope will also take an hour to burn from one end to the other, but may do it at some varying rate, which is not necessarily the same as the one for the first rope.
Now you are asked to measure a period of 45 minutes.
How will you do it?
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ANSWER
Light both ends of Rope A and one end of Rope B.
After 30 minutes, Rope A will be completely burned up and there will be 30 minutes of Rope B left.
Light the other end of Rope B. It will burn up in 15 minutes.
Total time elapsed since starting the ropes on fire --
45 minutes.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
HEY YA! -- PEANUTS Style
A great spoof of A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS matched
to the melody of HEY YA! by OUTKAST.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Man On Crack When Alligator Attacked
(From The Orlando Sentinel -- By Amy L. Edwards)
A man who was attacked by an alligator this morning was naked and smoking crack at the time, Polk County deputies who rescued him said today.
The alligator had the man in his jaws when deputies arrived at Lake Parker in Lakeland, Florida about 4 am today.
They were called by nearby residents who reported hearing a man yelling for help.
Man On Crack When Alligator Attacked
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
A man who was attacked by an alligator this morning was naked and smoking crack at the time, Polk County deputies who rescued him said today.
The alligator had the man in his jaws when deputies arrived at Lake Parker in Lakeland, Florida about 4 am today.
They were called by nearby residents who reported hearing a man yelling for help.
Man On Crack When Alligator Attacked
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
The Best Irish Joke Of 2006
John hoisted his beer and said, "Here's to spending the rest of me life, between the legs of me wife!"
That won him the top prize at the pub for the best toast of the night!
He went home and told his wife, Mary, "I won the prize for the best toast of the night."
She said, "Aye, did ye now. And what was your toast?"
John said, "Here's to spending the rest of me life, sitting in church beside me wife."
"Oh, that is very nice indeed, John!" Mary said.
The next day, Mary ran into one of John's drinking buddies on the street corner.
The man chuckled leeringly and said, "John won the prize the other night at the pub with a toast about you, Mary."
She said, "Aye, he told me, and I was a bit surprised myself. You know, he's only been there twice in the last four years. Once he fell asleep and the other time I had to pull him by the ears to make him come."
June Labay, thanks for the post.
That won him the top prize at the pub for the best toast of the night!
He went home and told his wife, Mary, "I won the prize for the best toast of the night."
She said, "Aye, did ye now. And what was your toast?"
John said, "Here's to spending the rest of me life, sitting in church beside me wife."
"Oh, that is very nice indeed, John!" Mary said.
The next day, Mary ran into one of John's drinking buddies on the street corner.
The man chuckled leeringly and said, "John won the prize the other night at the pub with a toast about you, Mary."
She said, "Aye, he told me, and I was a bit surprised myself. You know, he's only been there twice in the last four years. Once he fell asleep and the other time I had to pull him by the ears to make him come."
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Men's Restroom Mural
EDGE DESIGNS is an all-women run company that designs interior office space. They recently had an opportunity to do an office project in New York City.
The client allowed the women of this company a free hand in all design aspects.
The client was a company that was also run by all women executives.
The result?
Well, we all know that men never talk, never look at each other, and never laugh much in the restroom. The men's room is a serious and quiet place.
But now, with the addition of one mural on the wall -- let's just say the men's restroom now is a place of laughter and smiles.
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Today's Ebonics Word From The Public School System
OMELETTE
Let's use it in a sentence:
"I should pop yo ass fo what you jus did, but omelette
dis one slide."
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Let's use it in a sentence:
"I should pop yo ass fo what you jus did, but omelette
dis one slide."
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Friday, November 24, 2006
WHAT'S OPERA, DOC? (1957)
WHAT'S OPERA, DOC? (1957) directed by CHUCK JONES.
WAGNER music arranged by MILT FRANKLYN.
[Be very, very quiet. I'm hunting Wabbits... A classic.]
ABC NEWS Courting Next Generation On Internet
(From Reuters/The Hollywood Reporter -- By Paul J. Gough)
As the news networks come to grips with the digital revolution, ABC NEWS is merging the old and new world every day with an original newscast whose primary audience have video IPODS.
Each of the networks have carved out a news presence on the Web.
NBC NEWS was the first among the Big Three, putting
NBC NIGHTLY NEWS onto the Web and adding the
EARLY NIGHTLY video blog recently.
THE CBS EVENING NEWS is simulcast on the Web.
But only ABC NEWS creates a 15-minute daily newscast, separate from ABC WORLD NEWS though often using the same anchor, CHARLES GIBSON.
WORLD NEWS WEBCAST airs live at 3 pm ET on ABCNews.com and the ABC NEWS NOW digital channel.
It's available for downloading on ITUNES a little more than
an hour later and it's popular.
In October, there were 5.2 million downloads via ABCNews.com and iTunes, according to ABC.
ABC News Courting Next Generation On Internet
As the news networks come to grips with the digital revolution, ABC NEWS is merging the old and new world every day with an original newscast whose primary audience have video IPODS.
Each of the networks have carved out a news presence on the Web.
NBC NEWS was the first among the Big Three, putting
NBC NIGHTLY NEWS onto the Web and adding the
EARLY NIGHTLY video blog recently.
THE CBS EVENING NEWS is simulcast on the Web.
But only ABC NEWS creates a 15-minute daily newscast, separate from ABC WORLD NEWS though often using the same anchor, CHARLES GIBSON.
WORLD NEWS WEBCAST airs live at 3 pm ET on ABCNews.com and the ABC NEWS NOW digital channel.
It's available for downloading on ITUNES a little more than
an hour later and it's popular.
In October, there were 5.2 million downloads via ABCNews.com and iTunes, according to ABC.
ABC News Courting Next Generation On Internet
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Quote Of The Week -- THIN EDITORS
Never trust a skinny editor -- he isn't spending enough time with his ass in the chair.
[This is something I was told very seriously when I was a much younger and a little thinner editor.]
[This is something I was told very seriously when I was a much younger and a little thinner editor.]
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
A very HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all the readers of
LABAY'S PLACE.
Thanksgiving is the day to spend with family and count
our blessings.
Plus, you just can't get enough of eating all day and sitting
in front of the TV.
[Ahh, if only I could do that for a living. Oh, wait...]
LABAY'S PLACE.
Thanksgiving is the day to spend with family and count
our blessings.
Plus, you just can't get enough of eating all day and sitting
in front of the TV.
[Ahh, if only I could do that for a living. Oh, wait...]
KATIE COURIC'S Awkward Show Ending
Monday on the first East Coast feed, THE CBS EVENING NEWS had technical problems with a couple of pieces.
The final piece had no audio and they went back to
KATIE COURIC who had to apologize.
Then they ran several minutes of credits and music.
Couric had to just stand there.
They even went to a break and came back to more music
and more of Couric standing.
The final piece had no audio and they went back to
KATIE COURIC who had to apologize.
Then they ran several minutes of credits and music.
Couric had to just stand there.
They even went to a break and came back to more music
and more of Couric standing.
Desperate Sign
(From The New York Post/Page Six)
NBC is rubbing its ratings in ABC's face.
The Peacock Network hung a huge banner across from
ABC headquarters on West 67th Street to crow that it's
No. 1 in the morning and evening with the TODAY show and
NIGHTLY NEWS WITH BRIAN WILLIAMS.
An ABC insider sniffed, "Maybe if they spent that money on the staff they've been firing as opposed to some sophomoric stunt, they'd be in better shape. We didn't realize that layoffs of 700 people and billboards were part of their strategy."
An NBC source shrugged, "It's another place in the city that became available to advertise."
NBC is rubbing its ratings in ABC's face.
The Peacock Network hung a huge banner across from
ABC headquarters on West 67th Street to crow that it's
No. 1 in the morning and evening with the TODAY show and
NIGHTLY NEWS WITH BRIAN WILLIAMS.
An ABC insider sniffed, "Maybe if they spent that money on the staff they've been firing as opposed to some sophomoric stunt, they'd be in better shape. We didn't realize that layoffs of 700 people and billboards were part of their strategy."
An NBC source shrugged, "It's another place in the city that became available to advertise."
Quote Of The Week -- TONE
Tone? I don't need no steenking tone!
Real men set their levels on actual program.
Real men set their levels on actual program.
BUDDY RICH Drum Solo (1970)
BUDDY RICH is the master.
[This helps you remember what being a real musician meant back in the 70s when there was no sampling.]
IMAGINE -- COMPUTER REALITIES (1982)
One editors on the AVID L found this video on an old VHS tape.
It's called IMAGINE -- COMPUTER REALITIES and features the computers used to animate the movie TRON.
[Mock me all you want, but gems like this would be lost if not
for VHS.]
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
MURDOCH Cancels O.J.'s Book, TV Special
(From Cynopsis)
Citing it was an "ill-considered project" NEWS CORPORATION Chairman/CEO, RUPERT MURDOCH said his company has canceled publication of O.J. SIMPSON's book IF I DID IT and the two-part FOX broadcast network special that was scheduled to air next week based on the book, where Simpson talks in theory about his role in the 1994 slayings
of his ex-wife and RON GOLDMAN.
In recent days, several FOX affiliates decided to not air the special stating the subject matter was in poor taste.
Murdoch himself further apologized for "any pain this has caused the families of Ron Goldman and NICOLE BROWN-SIMPSON."
Citing it was an "ill-considered project" NEWS CORPORATION Chairman/CEO, RUPERT MURDOCH said his company has canceled publication of O.J. SIMPSON's book IF I DID IT and the two-part FOX broadcast network special that was scheduled to air next week based on the book, where Simpson talks in theory about his role in the 1994 slayings
of his ex-wife and RON GOLDMAN.
In recent days, several FOX affiliates decided to not air the special stating the subject matter was in poor taste.
Murdoch himself further apologized for "any pain this has caused the families of Ron Goldman and NICOLE BROWN-SIMPSON."
GAY, STRAIGHT OR TAKEN?
(From Cynopsis)
LIFETIME TELEVISION rolls out a new dating reality series GAY, STRAIGHT OR TAKEN? where one woman meets three men and after several dates, must decide which one is single to order to win a dream trip for two with him.
The series debuts January 8th at 8 pm with two half-hour episodes.
With eighteen episodes, the series is produced by
ENDEMOL USA.
LIFETIME TELEVISION rolls out a new dating reality series GAY, STRAIGHT OR TAKEN? where one woman meets three men and after several dates, must decide which one is single to order to win a dream trip for two with him.
The series debuts January 8th at 8 pm with two half-hour episodes.
With eighteen episodes, the series is produced by
ENDEMOL USA.
APPLE IPOD SHUFFLE Commercial
Another complex and heavy composited commercial from
the folks at APPLE.
This time it's for their resdesigned IPOD SHUFFLE.
Apple iPod Shuffle Commercial
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
[I wonder if they're using SHAKE to do these ads?]
the folks at APPLE.
This time it's for their resdesigned IPOD SHUFFLE.
Apple iPod Shuffle Commercial
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
[I wonder if they're using SHAKE to do these ads?]
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
ROBIN SPARKLES -- LET'S GO TO THE MALL
Who knew that ROBIN (COBIE SMULDERS) on
HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER had a musical past?
ROBIN SPARKLES is the alter ego of ROBIN SHERBATSKY
(on HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER ).
ROBIN SPARKLES was a hit in Canada in the 90s (their 80s) and her one hit wonder was LET'S GO TO THE MALL.
She often toured malls in Canada singing her hit song.
We dare you to watch this and NOT get her song stuck in your head for the rest of the day.
Just in case, you can listen to and download the song here.
[This is a much better recording of the song. You need to really feel the electronic drums and synths to appreciate it.]
Also, check out Robin Sparkles MySpace Page.
[Robin (Cobie), we love you and the video. Great 80s production video and pop feel -- very DEBBIE GIBSON! We love it!
Long live the 80s!]
Monday, November 20, 2006
Live Africian Watering Hole Webcam
Check out this webcam of a watering hole on the
NKORHO PAN in South Africa.
Live African Watering Hole Webcam
There's also a link to it on the Africam.com website which
has additional information about the location.
Just click on the NKORHO STREAM link (on the left).
[This is so cool. Especially the audio. At dusk there were tons of birds chirping and calling. I've seen wildebeest, monkeys,
and gazelles today.]
NKORHO PAN in South Africa.
Live African Watering Hole Webcam
There's also a link to it on the Africam.com website which
has additional information about the location.
Just click on the NKORHO STREAM link (on the left).
[This is so cool. Especially the audio. At dusk there were tons of birds chirping and calling. I've seen wildebeest, monkeys,
and gazelles today.]
HELP THE DRUNK GET HOME
Move your mouse to the left or right and help the drunk stay upright so he can safely get home from the bar!
Help The Drunk Get Home
Help The Drunk Get Home
FOX NEWS Eyes Right-Leaning Satirical Show
(From Reuters/The Hollywood Reporter -- By Paul J. Gough)
FOX NEWS CHANNEL might air two episodes of a DAILY SHOW-like program with a decidedly nonliberal bent on Saturday nights in late January, with the possibility that it could become a weekly show.
The half-hour show would take aim at what executive producer JOEL SURNOW, the co-creator of 24 calls "the sacred cows of the left" that don't get made as much fun of by other comedy shows.
"It's a satirical news format that would play more to the
FOX NEWS audience than the MICHAEL MOORE channel," Surnow said. "It would tip more right as THE DAILY SHOW tips left."
FOX NEWS CHANNEL might air two episodes of a DAILY SHOW-like program with a decidedly nonliberal bent on Saturday nights in late January, with the possibility that it could become a weekly show.
The half-hour show would take aim at what executive producer JOEL SURNOW, the co-creator of 24 calls "the sacred cows of the left" that don't get made as much fun of by other comedy shows.
"It's a satirical news format that would play more to the
FOX NEWS audience than the MICHAEL MOORE channel," Surnow said. "It would tip more right as THE DAILY SHOW tips left."
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Creating BOND'S Opening Credits -- He's NOT The Spy Who Loved Them
(From The L.A. Times -- By Sheigh Crabtree)
The crew expected a set crawling with sex kittens but what they got instead was a couple of grizzled stuntmen and a chiseled blond BOND.
"When the crew realized there were not going to be any naked girls on-set, some were a bit upset," admits
DANIEL KLEINMAN, the title designer behind the opening credit sequences for the last five JAMES BOND films, including
CASINO ROYALE, which opened Friday.
The lack of sultry dancing females in the segment was a radical departure not only for Kleinman but from four decades of setting up 007's cinematic adventures.
But just as the rest of CASINO ROYALE deviates from aspects of the spy franchise's trademark iconography, so did Kleinman's two-day title sequence shoot this summer.
The crew shot one day of stuntmen slugging it out followed by
a day with star DANIEL CRAIG performing variations of the classic Bond first-person shooter stance.
"Everybody agreed the idea of using images of the iconic silhouetted dancing girls in the titles was not appropriate," Kleinman said.
"In this film, Double-O is not totally formed as the James Bond everybody knows -- the womanizing, slightly un-PC character."
Creating Bond's Opening Credits
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
[I think we all agree here -- bring the babes back!]
The crew expected a set crawling with sex kittens but what they got instead was a couple of grizzled stuntmen and a chiseled blond BOND.
"When the crew realized there were not going to be any naked girls on-set, some were a bit upset," admits
DANIEL KLEINMAN, the title designer behind the opening credit sequences for the last five JAMES BOND films, including
CASINO ROYALE, which opened Friday.
The lack of sultry dancing females in the segment was a radical departure not only for Kleinman but from four decades of setting up 007's cinematic adventures.
But just as the rest of CASINO ROYALE deviates from aspects of the spy franchise's trademark iconography, so did Kleinman's two-day title sequence shoot this summer.
The crew shot one day of stuntmen slugging it out followed by
a day with star DANIEL CRAIG performing variations of the classic Bond first-person shooter stance.
"Everybody agreed the idea of using images of the iconic silhouetted dancing girls in the titles was not appropriate," Kleinman said.
"In this film, Double-O is not totally formed as the James Bond everybody knows -- the womanizing, slightly un-PC character."
Creating Bond's Opening Credits
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
[I think we all agree here -- bring the babes back!]
Monkey Tattoo
June Labay, thanks for the post.[Let's all be thankful it wasn't your kid who came home with this one, or was it?]
SOUND OF LIGHT
(From Apple.com)
TAKAGI MASAKATSU is a visual artist and musician whose work knows no aesthetic borders.
He has presented video installations and performed live at art spaces around the world. He also produces music videos, as well as music for commercials and film.
He has toured with musician and remix artist DAVID SYLVIAN.
RES MAGAZINE named Takagi one of the 2006 RES 10, an annual selection of emerging artists who will influence the worlds of film, video, design, advertising, music, and media art in the upcoming year and beyond.
See what inspires Takagi and how he uses MACS to create his artistic endeavors.
Sound Of Light
TAKAGI MASAKATSU is a visual artist and musician whose work knows no aesthetic borders.
He has presented video installations and performed live at art spaces around the world. He also produces music videos, as well as music for commercials and film.
He has toured with musician and remix artist DAVID SYLVIAN.
RES MAGAZINE named Takagi one of the 2006 RES 10, an annual selection of emerging artists who will influence the worlds of film, video, design, advertising, music, and media art in the upcoming year and beyond.
See what inspires Takagi and how he uses MACS to create his artistic endeavors.
Sound Of Light
60-Second Q&A With SCHY GLEASON
(From HD Studio Magazine)
QUESTION
What's the biggest misconception about HD post-production?
ANSWER
At last count, there were 18 different "flavors" of HD.
This makes for an almost countless number of variables that can affect each project.
The process that is closest to being truly easy is conforming of broadcast TV programs. This system has rigid guidelines in place that make it possible to keep a smooth workflow and get those shows out on schedule. Every other HD project I have done had at least one custom twist and required consultation between the finishing facility and the originator of the material.
So, the HD post process is anything but easy.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
QUESTION
Many people think you can finish an entire feature film on APPLE'S FINAL CUT PRO HD. Is this true?
ANSWER
The most common problems we encounter with FINAL CUT jobs is that the initial rough-cut edit is often done by a person who is underqualified to do the work. Just because they can afford a FINAL CCUT system, they assume they are qualified to edit on it. That's a little bit like buying a race car and assuming that this means you can automatically drive like JEFF GORDON.
This is a frequent problem with small-budget independent films.
The result is that the EDL the filmmaker delivers to us for conform is not clean, and often contains a myriad of time-code, format and frame-rate problems.
Fixing the problems takes time and costs money.
SCHY GLEASON is the Senior Editor for VICTORY STUDIOS
in Seattle, WA.
QUESTION
What's the biggest misconception about HD post-production?
ANSWER
At last count, there were 18 different "flavors" of HD.
This makes for an almost countless number of variables that can affect each project.
The process that is closest to being truly easy is conforming of broadcast TV programs. This system has rigid guidelines in place that make it possible to keep a smooth workflow and get those shows out on schedule. Every other HD project I have done had at least one custom twist and required consultation between the finishing facility and the originator of the material.
So, the HD post process is anything but easy.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
QUESTION
Many people think you can finish an entire feature film on APPLE'S FINAL CUT PRO HD. Is this true?
ANSWER
The most common problems we encounter with FINAL CUT jobs is that the initial rough-cut edit is often done by a person who is underqualified to do the work. Just because they can afford a FINAL CCUT system, they assume they are qualified to edit on it. That's a little bit like buying a race car and assuming that this means you can automatically drive like JEFF GORDON.
This is a frequent problem with small-budget independent films.
The result is that the EDL the filmmaker delivers to us for conform is not clean, and often contains a myriad of time-code, format and frame-rate problems.
Fixing the problems takes time and costs money.
SCHY GLEASON is the Senior Editor for VICTORY STUDIOS
in Seattle, WA.
PIRATES, ESPN Help DISNEY Profits Double
(From Sports Business Daily)
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY'S fiscal Q4 profit "more than doubled year-over-year" largely on the strength of its summer release of PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST according to PAUL BOND of THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER.
The movie helped DISNEY's studio entertainment division "dominate in terms of revenue growth, followed by media networks, consumer products and parks and resorts."
DISNEY beat WALL STREET estimates earnings of
$782 million in Q4, compared with $379 million a year ago, and $8.8 billion in revenue, up 14%.
THE MEDIA NETWORKS UNIT saw revenue increase 10%
to $3.7 billion and an 18% rise in operating income to
$883 million.
Cable, "driven by ESPN, turned in a 16% revenue rise,
while broadcasting clocked in with a 1% gain."
DISNEY executives "guided for continued double-digit growth for ESPN and touted the company’s opportunities in digital media, video games and even music."
DISNEY President and CEO ROBERT IGER appeared on BLOOMBERG NEWS and said of the impact of programming costs on the company's profit margin, "The total program cost for entertainment has gone up a bit, but that's because we're programming more entertainment hours due to the move of MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL from ABC to ESPN and the reduction in the number of news magazine shows. So, if you look at the total cost of entertainment programming, it's gone up slightly -- but it's actually gone down on an average per hour basis. So, I'm not at all concerned about that in terms of its impact on the bottom line at the ABC television network."
In L.A., JOSEPH MENN reports the licensing of merchandise for DISNEY's CARS has brought in more than $1 billion to retailers.
DISNEY shares fell $0.58 to $33.00 Thursday in extended trading, as executives "wouldn't forecast another year of double-digit profit growth."
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY'S fiscal Q4 profit "more than doubled year-over-year" largely on the strength of its summer release of PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST according to PAUL BOND of THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER.
The movie helped DISNEY's studio entertainment division "dominate in terms of revenue growth, followed by media networks, consumer products and parks and resorts."
DISNEY beat WALL STREET estimates earnings of
$782 million in Q4, compared with $379 million a year ago, and $8.8 billion in revenue, up 14%.
THE MEDIA NETWORKS UNIT saw revenue increase 10%
to $3.7 billion and an 18% rise in operating income to
$883 million.
Cable, "driven by ESPN, turned in a 16% revenue rise,
while broadcasting clocked in with a 1% gain."
DISNEY executives "guided for continued double-digit growth for ESPN and touted the company’s opportunities in digital media, video games and even music."
DISNEY President and CEO ROBERT IGER appeared on BLOOMBERG NEWS and said of the impact of programming costs on the company's profit margin, "The total program cost for entertainment has gone up a bit, but that's because we're programming more entertainment hours due to the move of MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL from ABC to ESPN and the reduction in the number of news magazine shows. So, if you look at the total cost of entertainment programming, it's gone up slightly -- but it's actually gone down on an average per hour basis. So, I'm not at all concerned about that in terms of its impact on the bottom line at the ABC television network."
In L.A., JOSEPH MENN reports the licensing of merchandise for DISNEY's CARS has brought in more than $1 billion to retailers.
DISNEY shares fell $0.58 to $33.00 Thursday in extended trading, as executives "wouldn't forecast another year of double-digit profit growth."
TRANSITIONS
Here's a book about editing that some editors have found fascinating.
The book is called TRANSITIONS.
The chapter the most fascinating discusses the editing that went into the computer animated movie TOY STORY.
The book's main focus details all the different kinds of media required for great editors to shape interesting stories.
Transitions
[I just ordered the book.]
KFC's Logo First To Be Seen From Space, Or Is It?
KFC claims their logo is the first to be seen from outer space.
KFC CORPORATION today became the world's first brand visible from outer space by unveiling a record-breaking 87,500 square feet, updated COLONEL SANDERS logo in the AREA 51 desert.
The event marks the official debut of a massive global re-image campaign that will contemporize 14,000-plus KFC restaurants in over 80 countries over the next few years.
KFC's Logo First To Be Seen From Space, Or Is It?
However, several TARGET store logos have been viewable from GOOGLE EARTH for more than a year, as seen below.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
DICK CLARK Returns For NEW YEAR'S ROCKIN' EVE
(From Cynopsis)
DICK CLARK will return to his hosting duties for NEW YEAR'S ROCKIN' EVE this year, with co-host RYAN SEACREST, for ABC, live from New York's TIMES SQUARE.
Musical guest this year will be CHRISTINA AGUILERA.
This will be Clark's 33rd year hosting the New Year's ring-in, having missed the 2004 New Year celebration after his stroke, the one and only time he did not host the show.
DICK CLARK will return to his hosting duties for NEW YEAR'S ROCKIN' EVE this year, with co-host RYAN SEACREST, for ABC, live from New York's TIMES SQUARE.
Musical guest this year will be CHRISTINA AGUILERA.
This will be Clark's 33rd year hosting the New Year's ring-in, having missed the 2004 New Year celebration after his stroke, the one and only time he did not host the show.
Free VIAGRA Spices Up Small Brazilian Town
(From Reuters)
The mayor of a small Brazilian town has begun handing out free VIAGRA, spicing up the sex lives of dozens of elderly men and their partners.
"Since we started the free distribution of sexual stimulants, our elderly population changed. They're much happier," said JOAO DE SOUZA LUZ, the mayor of NOVO SANTO ANTONIO,
a small town in the central state of Mato Grosso.
Souza Luz said 68 men over the age of 60 had already signed up for the program, which was approved by the town's legislature and has been dubbed HAPPY PENIS or
PINTO ALEGRE in Portuguese.
But the program has also had the unforeseen consequence
of encouraging some extra-marital affairs, Souza Luz said.
"Some of the old men aren't seeking out their wives.
They've got romances on the side," he said.
To discourage such illicit canoodling, Souza Luz said the city had decided to begin distributing the Viagra pills to the wives of the men who signed up for the program.
"That way, when the women are in the mood, they can give the pills to their husbands," he said.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
The mayor of a small Brazilian town has begun handing out free VIAGRA, spicing up the sex lives of dozens of elderly men and their partners.
"Since we started the free distribution of sexual stimulants, our elderly population changed. They're much happier," said JOAO DE SOUZA LUZ, the mayor of NOVO SANTO ANTONIO,
a small town in the central state of Mato Grosso.
Souza Luz said 68 men over the age of 60 had already signed up for the program, which was approved by the town's legislature and has been dubbed HAPPY PENIS or
PINTO ALEGRE in Portuguese.
But the program has also had the unforeseen consequence
of encouraging some extra-marital affairs, Souza Luz said.
"Some of the old men aren't seeking out their wives.
They've got romances on the side," he said.
To discourage such illicit canoodling, Souza Luz said the city had decided to begin distributing the Viagra pills to the wives of the men who signed up for the program.
"That way, when the women are in the mood, they can give the pills to their husbands," he said.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
AL JAZEERA INTERNATIONAL Chooses APPLE TECHNOLOGY
(From AMEInfo.com)
AL JAZEERA INTERNATIONAL, the English version of leading news broadcaster, AL JAZEERA, announced the selection of
a wide range of APPLE products to deliver a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for the media organization.
Catering to a wide range of media requirements, the APPLE-based technology project is set to deliver a total solution ranging from editing to storage needs.
With a reputation for using cutting-edge technology, AL JAZEERA plans to use the latest from APPLE's portfolio of solutions to revolutionize the functioning of the TV station's video network.
Al Jazeera International Chooses Apple Technology
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
AL JAZEERA INTERNATIONAL, the English version of leading news broadcaster, AL JAZEERA, announced the selection of
a wide range of APPLE products to deliver a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for the media organization.
Catering to a wide range of media requirements, the APPLE-based technology project is set to deliver a total solution ranging from editing to storage needs.
With a reputation for using cutting-edge technology, AL JAZEERA plans to use the latest from APPLE's portfolio of solutions to revolutionize the functioning of the TV station's video network.
Al Jazeera International Chooses Apple Technology
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
Beer Goggles
Made by reusing empty beer bottles, these BEER GOGGLES are a playful take on eyewear.
Pick out your favorite beer, or even make the selection based upon and interesting glass (think DELIRIUM), then drink it down and send it along. The construction of Beer Goggles will then begin.
Any prescription or tint of lenses will be fit into the frames and they will be ready to wear out to your local pub.
Beer Goggles
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
ROBOT THEATRE -- ROYALE WITH CHEESE
Two robots portray VINCENT and JULES in the famous
ROYALE WITH CHEESE scene from PULP FICTION.
This illustrates conclusively the lack of need for human actors.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
From ROCKETBOOM To ABC
(From BusinessWeek -- By Catherine Holahan)Internet celebrity AMANDA CONGDON just finished broadcasting her cross-country relocation from New York to L.A. on the World Wide Web. Now she is making another move-this one from online to on air.
The former host of ROCKETBOOM, one of the most popular video blogs on the Web, with roughly 211,000 daily viewers, has a new gig as a contributor for DISNEY's ABC network.
The new ABC role may make Congdon the first video blogger to make the jump to a major network.
Congdon is also developing a comedy for TIME WARNER's HBO, which itself has plans to beef up online programming.
Congdon will star in the HBO show, which will appear both online and on air in different forms. The subject matter has yet to be determined.
For the 25-year-old actress, the new jobs sounds like
a dream.
From Rocketboom To ABC
[Oh, we love Amanda Congdon!]
Former CNN Anchor Sets Site On Web
(From The New York Daily News -- By Richard Huff)
DARYN KAGAN spent a dozen years at CNN, where viewers watched her anchor breaking news and report from around the world.
Starting today, she's taking those skills to her own Web site -- DarynKagan.com -- where she'll be focusing solely on stories of inspiration.
The project will include a daily Webcast, anchored by Kagan, with reports such as one on a double amputee training for a triathlon.
"I believe in creating what you seek," Kagan said.
"I was seeking inspiration."
The Web site will offer a variety of profiles. Some are of people who do charity work, while others tell of those who have bounced back from tragedy.
"There are plenty of stories," Kagan said. "It's all I can do to keep up with them."
Former CNN Anchor Sets Site On Web
DARYN KAGAN spent a dozen years at CNN, where viewers watched her anchor breaking news and report from around the world.
Starting today, she's taking those skills to her own Web site -- DarynKagan.com -- where she'll be focusing solely on stories of inspiration.
The project will include a daily Webcast, anchored by Kagan, with reports such as one on a double amputee training for a triathlon.
"I believe in creating what you seek," Kagan said.
"I was seeking inspiration."
The Web site will offer a variety of profiles. Some are of people who do charity work, while others tell of those who have bounced back from tragedy.
"There are plenty of stories," Kagan said. "It's all I can do to keep up with them."
Former CNN Anchor Sets Site On Web
Quote Of The Week -- DARYN KAGAN
It's really important to be informed, but it's really important
to be inspired.
DARYN KAGAN, former CNN anchor
to be inspired.
DARYN KAGAN, former CNN anchor
THE GOLF CHANNEL Sets Lead For Other Single-Sport Cable Networks
(From The Los Angeles Times)
THE GOLF CHANNEL, which launched in January 1995,
now reaches 70 million U.S. households, "about 20 million fewer than" ESPN, and media analysts estimate the value of the COMCAST-owned net at about $1 billion, according to
GREG JOHNSON of THE L.A. TIMES.
KAGAN RESEARCH said that the net's $101 million in revenue from advertising and operator fees in 2005 made it
"the biggest single-sport cable channel."
The amount "dwarfs such rivals as SPEED CHANNEL and TENNIS CHANNEL, but noticeably lags ESPN ($966.5 million) and traditional broadcast networks."
Cable industry consultant STEPHEN EFFROS said THE GOLF CHANNEL "saw the potential for niche sports channels a lot earlier than other people did and they've capitalized on it very well. A lot of other entrepreneurs and the sports leagues themselves are now trying to emulate them."
Johnson noted 75% of the network's viewers are male, and the median age of viewers is 51, with a median household income of nearly $80.000.
THE GOLF CHANNEL CEO DAVID MANUOGIAN said that the network "is the wrong place to sell laundry detergent, but a great vehicle for marketing upscale automobiles, pricey golf clubs or financial services."
Johnson noted industry analysts predict that THE GOLF CHANNEL "will get a double-digit bump in ratings next year" when it adds PGA TOUR coverage.
David Walsh, thanks for the post.
THE GOLF CHANNEL, which launched in January 1995,
now reaches 70 million U.S. households, "about 20 million fewer than" ESPN, and media analysts estimate the value of the COMCAST-owned net at about $1 billion, according to
GREG JOHNSON of THE L.A. TIMES.
KAGAN RESEARCH said that the net's $101 million in revenue from advertising and operator fees in 2005 made it
"the biggest single-sport cable channel."
The amount "dwarfs such rivals as SPEED CHANNEL and TENNIS CHANNEL, but noticeably lags ESPN ($966.5 million) and traditional broadcast networks."
Cable industry consultant STEPHEN EFFROS said THE GOLF CHANNEL "saw the potential for niche sports channels a lot earlier than other people did and they've capitalized on it very well. A lot of other entrepreneurs and the sports leagues themselves are now trying to emulate them."
Johnson noted 75% of the network's viewers are male, and the median age of viewers is 51, with a median household income of nearly $80.000.
THE GOLF CHANNEL CEO DAVID MANUOGIAN said that the network "is the wrong place to sell laundry detergent, but a great vehicle for marketing upscale automobiles, pricey golf clubs or financial services."
Johnson noted industry analysts predict that THE GOLF CHANNEL "will get a double-digit bump in ratings next year" when it adds PGA TOUR coverage.
David Walsh, thanks for the post.
LASSE GJERTSEN -- AMATEUR
LASSE GJERTSEN is an amateur musician.
He can not play the drums or the piano.
All the sounds used are the actual audio from the original videotape.
No alternations have been made other than basic timeline editing.
[The guy can't CUT TO the beat. So he just CUT THE beat!
Ahh, yet again, the power of editing.]
SNL -- A NIGHT AT THE ROXBURY Sketch
1990s SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE (SNL) sketch featuring
CHRIS KATTAN, WILL FERRELL, and JIM CARREY as the guys from A NIGHT AT THE ROXBURY.
Featuring HADDAWAY's hit WHAT IS LOVE.
[A classic.]
The Worst Music Video Ever
Check out this strange Swedish music video.
[Where can I buy that chroma key software?]
STAR TREK + NINE INCH NAILS = CLOSER
What if they hadn't made it to VULCAN in time?
STAR TREK + NINE INCH NAILS = CLOSER
[Bizarre.]
What's Up With New TV Series?
(From The USA Today -- By Gary Levin)
TV networks this month must deliver remaining verdicts on this season's crop of new shows.
Here's THE USA TODAY'S REPORT CARD, with a plus sign (+) for shows that will survive come January, an "x" for casualties or others on their way out, and a question mark (?) for those too soon to tell.
What's Up With New TV Series?
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
TV networks this month must deliver remaining verdicts on this season's crop of new shows.
Here's THE USA TODAY'S REPORT CARD, with a plus sign (+) for shows that will survive come January, an "x" for casualties or others on their way out, and a question mark (?) for those too soon to tell.
What's Up With New TV Series?
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
Installing THE ZUNE -- Sucked
When it comes to the hardware, we're pretty much set -- we all now know THE ZUNE inside and out.
But how it interacts with the software, the marketplace, etc. -- that's where the magic happens.
Or doesn't.
We really wanted to give THE ZUNE the benefit of the doubt.
We hoped installing THE ZUNE software and getting our player running would be as seamless and painless as getting ITUNES and an IPOD running on your machine, since that is, after all, what it's up against.
Unfortunately, the reality of our experience with the first version of THE ZUNE software this afternoon is much like that of many Version 1 software experiences.
It sucks.
Installing The Zune -- Sucked
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
[Don't ditch your iPod to get Zuned.]
But how it interacts with the software, the marketplace, etc. -- that's where the magic happens.
Or doesn't.
We really wanted to give THE ZUNE the benefit of the doubt.
We hoped installing THE ZUNE software and getting our player running would be as seamless and painless as getting ITUNES and an IPOD running on your machine, since that is, after all, what it's up against.
Unfortunately, the reality of our experience with the first version of THE ZUNE software this afternoon is much like that of many Version 1 software experiences.
It sucks.
Installing The Zune -- Sucked
Kraig Bailey, thanks for the post.
[Don't ditch your iPod to get Zuned.]
VHS, 30, Dies Of Loneliness
(From Variety -- By Diane Garrett)
After a long illness, the groundbreaking home-entertainment format VHS has died of natural causes in the United States.
The format was 30 years old.
No services are planned.
The format had been expected to survive until January,
but high-def formats and next-generation vidgame consoles hastened its final decline.
"It's pretty much over," concurred BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT General Manager North America
LORI MACPHERSON on Tuesday.
VHS is survived by a child, DVD, and by TIVO, VOD and DIRECTTV.
It was preceded in death by BETAMAX, DIVX, mini-discs
and laserdiscs.
Although it had been ailing, the format's death became official in this, the video biz's all-important fourth quarter.
Retailers decided to pull the plug, saying there was no longer shelf space.
VHS, 30, Dies Of Loneliness
[VHS still lives on here...for now.]
After a long illness, the groundbreaking home-entertainment format VHS has died of natural causes in the United States.
The format was 30 years old.
No services are planned.
The format had been expected to survive until January,
but high-def formats and next-generation vidgame consoles hastened its final decline.
"It's pretty much over," concurred BUENA VISTA HOME ENTERTAINMENT General Manager North America
LORI MACPHERSON on Tuesday.
VHS is survived by a child, DVD, and by TIVO, VOD and DIRECTTV.
It was preceded in death by BETAMAX, DIVX, mini-discs
and laserdiscs.
Although it had been ailing, the format's death became official in this, the video biz's all-important fourth quarter.
Retailers decided to pull the plug, saying there was no longer shelf space.
VHS, 30, Dies Of Loneliness
[VHS still lives on here...for now.]
Teen Chat Decoder
We know that understanding your kids online chat get's harder everyday, and the acronym and abbreviations that they use in their instant and chat messages don't make it any easier for parents.
When you use THE TEEN CHAT DECODER online acronym database, parents can quickly discover the true meanings of the acronyms teens use online and let's them "stay up to date " with the lingo and chat abbreviations that their kids use everyday.
Teen Chat Decoder
When you use THE TEEN CHAT DECODER online acronym database, parents can quickly discover the true meanings of the acronyms teens use online and let's them "stay up to date " with the lingo and chat abbreviations that their kids use everyday.
Teen Chat Decoder
Catch BLUE MAN GROUP On SCRUBS
BLUE MAN GROUP will make a special appearance on the exciting season premiere of NBC's hit comedy, SCRUBS.
The show will air Thursday, November 30th and will have
ZACH BRAFF's character J.D. find himself on BLUE MAN GROUP's stage at THE VENETIAN RESORT HOTEL AND CASINO.
Don't miss the fun!
SCRUBS airs on Thursdays at 9 pm on NBC.
John Santamaria, thanks for the post.
The show will air Thursday, November 30th and will have
ZACH BRAFF's character J.D. find himself on BLUE MAN GROUP's stage at THE VENETIAN RESORT HOTEL AND CASINO.
Don't miss the fun!
SCRUBS airs on Thursdays at 9 pm on NBC.
John Santamaria, thanks for the post.
How Many Of Me?
How many of you are there?
Did you break the mold?
Find out how many more people share your exact name.
How Many Of Me?
Did you break the mold?
Find out how many more people share your exact name.
How Many Of Me?
Friday, November 17, 2006
SPORTS MACHINE Goes Off The Air As MICHAEL Responds To NBC Cuts
(From Sports Business Daily)
GEORGE MICHAEL in March will step down as WRC-NBC Sports Director and host of the nationally syndicated
SPORTS MACHINE, according to KARA ROWLAND of
THE WASHINGTON TIMES.
Michael will stay on to host THE REDSKINS REPORT and
FULL COURT PRESS. He also will continue to host Monday interviews with Redskins coaches.
Michael said that he was "offered a new long-term contract but chose to turn it down amid budget cuts so that other employees wouldn't be laid off."
Rowland notes NBC UNIVERSAL plans to cut 700 jobs in an "effort to reverse falling profits and shrink expenses by
$750 million in the next two years."
Michael -- "If there have to be budget cuts, then the first one (to go) has to be me."
Also in DC, JOHN MAYNARD notes that "more than half of WRC's sports staff's 20 members are being let go."
The AP's MARTY NILAND wrote SPORTS MACHINE, which will go off the air when Michael steps down, "was trendsetting programming, gaining its footing in the days before cable television and ESPN were widely available. The show was the first to give regular national TV exposure to once-obscure sports such as NASCAR and professional rodeo."
Michael "helped the TV careers of several national sports personalities," including DAVID ALDEIDGE, BONNIE BERNSTEIN, TONY KORNHEISER, JOE THEISMANN and MICHAEL WILBON, among others.
ESPN's CHRIS McKENDRY, who was part of Michael's competition in DC at WJLA-ABC from 1994-1996, said of Michael, "He was us before we were us."
GEORGE MICHAEL in March will step down as WRC-NBC Sports Director and host of the nationally syndicated
SPORTS MACHINE, according to KARA ROWLAND of
THE WASHINGTON TIMES.
Michael will stay on to host THE REDSKINS REPORT and
FULL COURT PRESS. He also will continue to host Monday interviews with Redskins coaches.
Michael said that he was "offered a new long-term contract but chose to turn it down amid budget cuts so that other employees wouldn't be laid off."
Rowland notes NBC UNIVERSAL plans to cut 700 jobs in an "effort to reverse falling profits and shrink expenses by
$750 million in the next two years."
Michael -- "If there have to be budget cuts, then the first one (to go) has to be me."
Also in DC, JOHN MAYNARD notes that "more than half of WRC's sports staff's 20 members are being let go."
The AP's MARTY NILAND wrote SPORTS MACHINE, which will go off the air when Michael steps down, "was trendsetting programming, gaining its footing in the days before cable television and ESPN were widely available. The show was the first to give regular national TV exposure to once-obscure sports such as NASCAR and professional rodeo."
Michael "helped the TV careers of several national sports personalities," including DAVID ALDEIDGE, BONNIE BERNSTEIN, TONY KORNHEISER, JOE THEISMANN and MICHAEL WILBON, among others.
ESPN's CHRIS McKENDRY, who was part of Michael's competition in DC at WJLA-ABC from 1994-1996, said of Michael, "He was us before we were us."
Top Three Choices For Man Of The Year
June Labay, thanks for the post.[It's a very tough race between #1 and #3.]
Involuntary Muscular Contractions
A UCLA Professor was giving a lecture on "Involuntary Muscular Contractions" to his first year medical students.
Realizing that this was not the most riveting subject, the Professor decided to lighten the mood slightly.
He pointed to a young woman in the front row and said, "Do you know what your asshole is doing while you're having an orgasm?"
She replied, "Probably deer hunting with his buddies."
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Realizing that this was not the most riveting subject, the Professor decided to lighten the mood slightly.
He pointed to a young woman in the front row and said, "Do you know what your asshole is doing while you're having an orgasm?"
She replied, "Probably deer hunting with his buddies."
June Labay, thanks for the post.
WURSTFEST Beer Tap
In a little German town called New Braunfels each year in October they have what is called WURSTFEST which is a sausage and beer celebration.Above is a photo of one of the new beer taps.
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
OFFICE SPACE (Redux)
Ever imagine OFFICE SPACE as a slasher/thriller film?
Seems like someone took one too many staplers from MILTON.
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Why MACS Are Bad
Man, this guy really doesn't like MACS!
Be sure to watch the video all the way to the end.
Jon Solomon, thanks for the post.
[This is exactly how I feel sometimes in DS.]
THE PIMPSTAR -- Dub Custom Wheels
THE PIMPSTAR is a huge leap forward in the evolution of the wheel.
With the PimpStar's built-in full color LED lights, microprocessor and wireless modem, you can display virtually any image, including text, graphics, logos, and even digital photos on your custom wheel covers.
The included software allows you to create your own images and send them to each wheel individually or all wheels at the same time as you drive!
[Down Beers. Down.]
You can even pre-load up to six images into each wheel and program them to change automatically at the time intervals you select.
The wheels are environmentally sealed, so you don't have to worry about going to the car wash; and they are powered by the vehicle electrical system so there are no batteries to run out or change, ever.
The PimpStar -- Dub Custom Wheels
Jon Solomon, thanks for the post.
[Pimp your ride with these phat wheels. I think GAMECREEK needs these for their mobile units.]
Dolphins Sing BATMAN Theme
(From Discovery News -- By Jennifer Viegas)Scientists have taught dolphins to combine both rhythm and vocalisations to produce music, resulting in an extremely high-pitched, short version of the BATMAN theme song.
The findings, outlined in two studies, are the first time nonhuman mammals have demonstrated they can recognise rhythms and reproduce them vocally.
"Humans are sensitive to rhythms embedded in sequences of sounds, but we typically consider this skill to be part of processing for language and music, cognitive domains that we consider to be uniquely human," says Professor HEIDI HARLEY, lead author of both studies.
"Clearly, aspects of those domains are available to other species."
Dolphins Sing Batman Theme
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
[Batman. Gotham City. I live in a lair.]
THE DEPARTMENT OF ACCEPTABLE MEDIA
(From Cynopsis)
VH1's latest project is called THE DEPARTMENT OF ACCEPTABLE MEDIA, which will be executive produced by comedian JACK BLACK.
The network has ordered 8 episodes for a Spring 2007 debut.
The content will include several short "pilots" produced by executive producers BLACK, DAN HARMON and ROB SCHRAB, mixed in with "pilots" provided by viewers, says VARIETY.
Viewers will vote online at www.acceptable.tv for their favorite pilot.
Those with the most votes move on to create a new episode of their storyline.
The whole idea being to stay on the show for as long as you can without getting cancelled.
VH1's latest project is called THE DEPARTMENT OF ACCEPTABLE MEDIA, which will be executive produced by comedian JACK BLACK.
The network has ordered 8 episodes for a Spring 2007 debut.
The content will include several short "pilots" produced by executive producers BLACK, DAN HARMON and ROB SCHRAB, mixed in with "pilots" provided by viewers, says VARIETY.
Viewers will vote online at www.acceptable.tv for their favorite pilot.
Those with the most votes move on to create a new episode of their storyline.
The whole idea being to stay on the show for as long as you can without getting cancelled.
AMERICA'S GAME: THE SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS
(From Cynopsis)
THE NFL NETWORK will launch a new series on November 24th at 8:30 pm called AMERICA'S GAME: THE SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS, which ranks the best Super Bowl winning teams of all time.
NFL Network has ordered 41 episodes, each voiced by names you're familiar with including MARTIN SHEEN, LAURENCE FISHBURNE, GENE HACKMAN and BRUCE WILLIS.
THE NFL NETWORK will launch a new series on November 24th at 8:30 pm called AMERICA'S GAME: THE SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS, which ranks the best Super Bowl winning teams of all time.
NFL Network has ordered 41 episodes, each voiced by names you're familiar with including MARTIN SHEEN, LAURENCE FISHBURNE, GENE HACKMAN and BRUCE WILLIS.
WNBC-4 Axes Three Veteran Reporters
(From The New York Daily News -- By Richard Huff)
Three veteran WNBC-Channel 4 correspondents were cut yesterday -- and another reassigned -- the result of NBC's massive, corporate-wide restructuring.
Staffers JOE AVELLAR, DR. MAX GOMEZ and JANE HANSON learned yesterday was their last day.
Also, ROSEANNE COLLETTI has been shifted from a consumer reporting beat to a general assignment slot.
"I don't think anyone ever expects it," Gomez said yesterday. "I knew we were in this reorganization mode, but I also have been doing this long enough to know nobody is bulletproof."
Hanson has been there the longest, starting in 1979.
For years, she was the co-anchor of the station's TODAY IN
NEW YORK telecast, but left the morning grind in 2003 for a slot anchoring a series of specials about people and places in
New York.
Her last segment, JANE'S NEW YORK: BUILDING GOTHAM will air Saturday at 7 pm.
Given their tenures, it's safe to assume Avellar, Hanson and Gomez were among the better-paid correspondents at WNBC.
WNBC-4 Axes Three Veteran Reporters
Three veteran WNBC-Channel 4 correspondents were cut yesterday -- and another reassigned -- the result of NBC's massive, corporate-wide restructuring.
Staffers JOE AVELLAR, DR. MAX GOMEZ and JANE HANSON learned yesterday was their last day.
Also, ROSEANNE COLLETTI has been shifted from a consumer reporting beat to a general assignment slot.
"I don't think anyone ever expects it," Gomez said yesterday. "I knew we were in this reorganization mode, but I also have been doing this long enough to know nobody is bulletproof."
Hanson has been there the longest, starting in 1979.
For years, she was the co-anchor of the station's TODAY IN
NEW YORK telecast, but left the morning grind in 2003 for a slot anchoring a series of specials about people and places in
New York.
Her last segment, JANE'S NEW YORK: BUILDING GOTHAM will air Saturday at 7 pm.
Given their tenures, it's safe to assume Avellar, Hanson and Gomez were among the better-paid correspondents at WNBC.
WNBC-4 Axes Three Veteran Reporters
NBC Lays Off At Least 18 At Three News Programs
(From The New York Times -- By Jacques Steinberg)
NBC NEWS officials said yesterday that they had begun laying off employees connected to its flagship programs -- including TODAY, NBC NIGHTLY NEWS WITH BRIAN WILLIAMS and DATELINE NBC.
The cuts within the news division are part of broader companywide budget effort announced last month by the division's corporate parent, NBC UNIVERSAL, who is trying to save as much as $750 million.
NBC Lays Off At Least 18 At Three News Programs
NBC NEWS officials said yesterday that they had begun laying off employees connected to its flagship programs -- including TODAY, NBC NIGHTLY NEWS WITH BRIAN WILLIAMS and DATELINE NBC.
The cuts within the news division are part of broader companywide budget effort announced last month by the division's corporate parent, NBC UNIVERSAL, who is trying to save as much as $750 million.
NBC Lays Off At Least 18 At Three News Programs
ROBIN ROBERTS Brings A Lot of Heart (And Height) To The Morning Anchor's Job
(From The New York Times -- By Felicia R. Lee)"Who is ROBIN ROBERTS?" is the JEOPARDY question to this answer -- "She's a former college basketball star who, with DIANE SAWYER, makes up the only female co-anchor team for a major network morning show, GOOD MORNING AMERICA on ABC."
Amid all the noise about female newscasters -- ELIZABETH VARGAS's departure as evening news anchor at ABC,
KATIE COURIC's ascension to anchor at THE CBS EVENING NEWS -- Ms. Roberts and Ms. Sawyer have, without much fanfare, become a team since CHARLES GIBSON left the program this summer to become anchor of ABC's WORLD NEWS, the evening news broadcast.
"I have to give kudos to ABC because it shows progress and was mostly under the radar," Ms. Roberts, 45, said of her pairing with Ms. Sawyer. "Some of the viewers are like,
'Girl Power!'"
CAROL JENKINS, a veteran broadcast journalist and president-elect of THE WOMEN'S MEDIA CENTER, an advocacy group, said, "For all the talk about competition between women, Diane and Robin clearly like each other and work well together."
Robin Roberts Brings A Lot of Heart (And Height) To
The Morning Anchor's Job
Watch Cable TV On Your Cell Phone? Soon.
(From The Associated Press -- By Bruce Meyerson)
Embracing a technology that has unnerved media and telecommunications companies, a major European wireless provider will let customers watch their home cable TV on a cell phone if they also have a device called the SLINGBOX back at the house.
3 GROUP will launch the new service in Britain first, starting December 1st, followed by three more of its 11 markets in early 2007, the wireless company announced Thursday.
Two new handsets running on 3's next-generation wireless network will feature the SLING application, which customers can use to watch any channel available on their cable TV at home.
The phones also can be used to control a digital video recorder at home, pausing and rewinding live television, playing previously recorded shows, or setting up the DVR to record a program.
Watch Cable TV On Your Cell Phone? Soon.
Embracing a technology that has unnerved media and telecommunications companies, a major European wireless provider will let customers watch their home cable TV on a cell phone if they also have a device called the SLINGBOX back at the house.
3 GROUP will launch the new service in Britain first, starting December 1st, followed by three more of its 11 markets in early 2007, the wireless company announced Thursday.
Two new handsets running on 3's next-generation wireless network will feature the SLING application, which customers can use to watch any channel available on their cable TV at home.
The phones also can be used to control a digital video recorder at home, pausing and rewinding live television, playing previously recorded shows, or setting up the DVR to record a program.
Watch Cable TV On Your Cell Phone? Soon.
O.J. To Detail Murders In Interview, With Big "If"
(From Newsday -- By Verne Gay)
In what could well be the sleaziest, and certainly the strangest, documentary in the history of television, O.J. SIMPSON has agreed to a FOX TV interview in which he will discuss how he murdered NICOLE BROWN SIMPSON and RONALD GOLDMAN 12 years ago -- if, that is, he had actually murdered them.
Done rubbing your eyes?
Good, because there's more.
Simpson will be interviewed by JUDITH REGAN, the founder and chief executive of REGANBOOKS, which will publish Simpson's IF I DID IT on November 30th.
REGANBOOKS is an imprint of HARPERCOLLINS, owned by NEWS CORP., parent of FOX.
The interview -- O.J. SIMPSON: IF I DID IT HERE'S HOW IT HAPPENED -- will air November 27th and 29th, just before the book goes on sale.
"This is an interview that no one thought would ever happen," said MIKE DARNELL, FOX chief of reality programs.
Simpson was paid a reported $3.5 million for the book, according to THE NATIONAL ENQUIRER, which first reported its existence last month.
Not much is known about the book or the interview -- ReganBooks hasn't yet posted a description on its Web site, although the Enquirer piece noted that Simpson's account of the murders is "so detailed and so chillingly realistic" readers will likely come to the conclusion that Simpson committed the crimes.
Simpson was acquitted in 1995 after the criminal trial but later found liable for the deaths in a civil trial and ordered to pay $33.5 million to the victims' families.
John Santamaria, thanks for the post.
[How is this legal, let alone ethical?]
In what could well be the sleaziest, and certainly the strangest, documentary in the history of television, O.J. SIMPSON has agreed to a FOX TV interview in which he will discuss how he murdered NICOLE BROWN SIMPSON and RONALD GOLDMAN 12 years ago -- if, that is, he had actually murdered them.
Done rubbing your eyes?
Good, because there's more.
Simpson will be interviewed by JUDITH REGAN, the founder and chief executive of REGANBOOKS, which will publish Simpson's IF I DID IT on November 30th.
REGANBOOKS is an imprint of HARPERCOLLINS, owned by NEWS CORP., parent of FOX.
The interview -- O.J. SIMPSON: IF I DID IT HERE'S HOW IT HAPPENED -- will air November 27th and 29th, just before the book goes on sale.
"This is an interview that no one thought would ever happen," said MIKE DARNELL, FOX chief of reality programs.
Simpson was paid a reported $3.5 million for the book, according to THE NATIONAL ENQUIRER, which first reported its existence last month.
Not much is known about the book or the interview -- ReganBooks hasn't yet posted a description on its Web site, although the Enquirer piece noted that Simpson's account of the murders is "so detailed and so chillingly realistic" readers will likely come to the conclusion that Simpson committed the crimes.
Simpson was acquitted in 1995 after the criminal trial but later found liable for the deaths in a civil trial and ordered to pay $33.5 million to the victims' families.
John Santamaria, thanks for the post.
[How is this legal, let alone ethical?]
STUDIO 60 Flailing By Not Taking Comedy Seriously
(From MSNBC.com -- By Linda Holmes)
One of the popular pastimes of the fall season has been discussing the high-profile foundering of STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP.
[NBC, Mondays, 10 pm]
Headed by AARON SORKIN and THOMAS SCHLAMME, who had critical success with SPORTS NIGHT and both critical and popular success with THE WEST WING, and starring MATTHEW PERRY, BRADLEY WHITFORD, and AMANDA PEET, STUDIO 60 began with good reviews and a large pilot audience.
Since then, however, the audience has dropped weekly, cancellation rumors swirled for a while, and critical response has become substantially more mixed.
Talk of cancellation was squelched last week when NBC confimed it was picking the show up for the full season.
But this is a project in trouble, despite a quality pedigree and an aggressive marketing campaign on multiple fronts.
Studio 60 Flailing By Not Taking Comedy Seriously
Bill Smallfield, thanks for the post.
One of the popular pastimes of the fall season has been discussing the high-profile foundering of STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP.
[NBC, Mondays, 10 pm]
Headed by AARON SORKIN and THOMAS SCHLAMME, who had critical success with SPORTS NIGHT and both critical and popular success with THE WEST WING, and starring MATTHEW PERRY, BRADLEY WHITFORD, and AMANDA PEET, STUDIO 60 began with good reviews and a large pilot audience.
Since then, however, the audience has dropped weekly, cancellation rumors swirled for a while, and critical response has become substantially more mixed.
Talk of cancellation was squelched last week when NBC confimed it was picking the show up for the full season.
But this is a project in trouble, despite a quality pedigree and an aggressive marketing campaign on multiple fronts.
Studio 60 Flailing By Not Taking Comedy Seriously
Bill Smallfield, thanks for the post.
NFL Defends TV Policies Before Senate
(From The Hollywood Reporter -- By Brooks Boliek)
The NFL played defense on Tuesday before a Senate committee investigating the nation's premier sports league's television policies.
At issue are several deals the NFL has made or is attempting to make that either grant exclusivity to one carrier or another or dictate the tier on which cable operators can place pro football programming.
NFL Executive VP JEFFREY PASH told the Senate Judiciary Committee that the league's primary desire is to get its games on more viewers' TV sets by keeping a majority of its games on broadcast TV.
"The centerpiece of the NFL's television policy is free, over-the-air broadcasting of NFL games," Pash told the committee. "The best way to do so has been and continues to be through broadcast television."
SEN. ARLEN SPECTER, R-Pennsylvania, is concerned that new TV packages such as the one on THE NFL NETWORK and the league's Thursday/Saturday package of games will drive up cable prices.
He also expressed concern over the NFL's decision to limit its SUNDAY TICKET package to satellite TV.
NFL Defends TV Policies Before Senate
John Santamaria, thanks for the post.
The NFL played defense on Tuesday before a Senate committee investigating the nation's premier sports league's television policies.
At issue are several deals the NFL has made or is attempting to make that either grant exclusivity to one carrier or another or dictate the tier on which cable operators can place pro football programming.
NFL Executive VP JEFFREY PASH told the Senate Judiciary Committee that the league's primary desire is to get its games on more viewers' TV sets by keeping a majority of its games on broadcast TV.
"The centerpiece of the NFL's television policy is free, over-the-air broadcasting of NFL games," Pash told the committee. "The best way to do so has been and continues to be through broadcast television."
SEN. ARLEN SPECTER, R-Pennsylvania, is concerned that new TV packages such as the one on THE NFL NETWORK and the league's Thursday/Saturday package of games will drive up cable prices.
He also expressed concern over the NFL's decision to limit its SUNDAY TICKET package to satellite TV.
NFL Defends TV Policies Before Senate
John Santamaria, thanks for the post.
Quote Of The Week -- MAHATMA GANDHI
You may never know what results come from your action.
But if you do nothing, there will be no result.
MAHATMA GANDHI
But if you do nothing, there will be no result.
MAHATMA GANDHI
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
I Do Dog Tricks
Ever wanted to make your dog do exactly what you asked them to?
Now you can!
I Do Dog Tricks
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Now you can!
I Do Dog Tricks
June Labay, thanks for the post.
Friday, November 10, 2006
NBC Orders Full Season Of STUDIO 60
(From Cynopsis)
NBC has ordered up a full season of STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP.
Surprised?
This past Monday night, the show delivered 7.7 million viewers, finishing third in the time period.
While it may not have a multitude of viewers, it does have a high quality viewer -- a preponderance of college educated, affluent viewers with an annual income exceeding $75k.
Whether or not the show will remain on Monday nights at
10 pm following HEROES, is still unknown. A new midseason schedule is due out from the network next week.
Only two other freshman series still airing on NBC have not received their orders for a full season -- FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS and sitcom 30 ROCK.
Both have received additional script orders.
NBC has ordered up a full season of STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP.
Surprised?
This past Monday night, the show delivered 7.7 million viewers, finishing third in the time period.
While it may not have a multitude of viewers, it does have a high quality viewer -- a preponderance of college educated, affluent viewers with an annual income exceeding $75k.
Whether or not the show will remain on Monday nights at
10 pm following HEROES, is still unknown. A new midseason schedule is due out from the network next week.
Only two other freshman series still airing on NBC have not received their orders for a full season -- FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS and sitcom 30 ROCK.
Both have received additional script orders.
NIELSEN Announces DVR Findings
(From Cynopsis)
NIELSEN has released new DVR findings from the week of September 25th.
Among DVR households, 76% of all A18-49 viewers who watch recorded broadcast primetime shows, play them back within two days and 84% play them back in three days.
Also among A18-49, 85% viewed syndicated shows within two days and by the third day, 90% watched primetime cable shows and 91% viewed time-shifted syndicated programs.
NIELSEN has released new DVR findings from the week of September 25th.
Among DVR households, 76% of all A18-49 viewers who watch recorded broadcast primetime shows, play them back within two days and 84% play them back in three days.
Also among A18-49, 85% viewed syndicated shows within two days and by the third day, 90% watched primetime cable shows and 91% viewed time-shifted syndicated programs.
ABC Morning News Gets Name Change
(From Broadcasting And Cable -- By John Eggerton)
ABC NEWS is changing the name of WORLD NEWS THIS MORNING to AMERICA THIS MORNING effective Monday, November 13th.
The move is not to suggest that the early morning broadcast (4:30-5 am) will shift from news of the world to news of the Americas.
Instead, it is meant to distinguish the brand from WORLD NEWS (which previously got its own name change from WORLD NEWS TONIGHT) and to convey the sense of looking forward to GOOD MORNING AMERICA rather than recapping the previous night's news.
"When the broadcast first debuted more than two decades ago it was, in many ways, an extension of WORLD NEWS, providing a wrap-up of the previous day's top stories," said ABC NEWS President DAVID WESTIN in announcing the change.
"As news gathering and viewing habits have evolved, the program has established itself as a leader in early morning news. The new title will more accurately reflect the position and purpose of this broadcast -- to present a first look at the day's national, international, and business news."
ABC NEWS is changing the name of WORLD NEWS THIS MORNING to AMERICA THIS MORNING effective Monday, November 13th.
The move is not to suggest that the early morning broadcast (4:30-5 am) will shift from news of the world to news of the Americas.
Instead, it is meant to distinguish the brand from WORLD NEWS (which previously got its own name change from WORLD NEWS TONIGHT) and to convey the sense of looking forward to GOOD MORNING AMERICA rather than recapping the previous night's news.
"When the broadcast first debuted more than two decades ago it was, in many ways, an extension of WORLD NEWS, providing a wrap-up of the previous day's top stories," said ABC NEWS President DAVID WESTIN in announcing the change.
"As news gathering and viewing habits have evolved, the program has established itself as a leader in early morning news. The new title will more accurately reflect the position and purpose of this broadcast -- to present a first look at the day's national, international, and business news."
Thursday, November 09, 2006
QUICKEYS
A lot of software products promise to make you more productive, but there's only one utility that's been delivering on that promise for over 15 years -- QUICKEYS.
QUICKEYS creates shortcuts that will automate your repetitive tasks with custom hot keys, toolbars and timers.
From typing text, launching programs and remapping keys, to selecting menus, recording and play back of your actions, and everything in between, QUICKEYS is the only macro automation tool that you'll ever need.
QuicKeys
If you like macros, look at QuicKeys. Runs on both Mac and PC.]
QUICKEYS creates shortcuts that will automate your repetitive tasks with custom hot keys, toolbars and timers.
From typing text, launching programs and remapping keys, to selecting menus, recording and play back of your actions, and everything in between, QUICKEYS is the only macro automation tool that you'll ever need.
QuicKeys
If you like macros, look at QuicKeys. Runs on both Mac and PC.]
MEN IN TREES Extended, SIX DEGREES Pulled Until January
(From Cynopsis)
ABC has ordered a full season of MEN IN TREES and will move the series to Thursday nights at 10 pm starting November 30th through December.
ABC has pulled SIX DEGREES off the schedule effective immediately.
DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES airs in the time period tonight.
ABC says it has plans to bring back SIX DEGREES with original episodes in January.
ABC has ordered a full season of MEN IN TREES and will move the series to Thursday nights at 10 pm starting November 30th through December.
ABC has pulled SIX DEGREES off the schedule effective immediately.
DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES airs in the time period tonight.
ABC says it has plans to bring back SIX DEGREES with original episodes in January.
New Buyer For TRIBUNE?
(From Cynopsis)
Two Los Angeles-based investors, billionaire philanthropist
ELI BROAD and investor RON BURKLE have submitted a bid to buy Chicago-based TRIBUNE COMPANY the parent entity which owns THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, 25 television stations and an interest in THE CW NETWORK, 10 other newspapers and THE CHICAGO CUBS.
The offer price and other details have not been disclosed, but both Broad and Burkle have made it known that they have wanted local interests to take control of THE L.A. TIMES.
The entertainment guru, DAVID GEFFEN has also declared interest in buying THE TIMES himself, but it is not known if he has submitted a bid.
Tribune has expressed its desire to keep THE TIMES as part of its media group, and has only opened up for bids on individual assets last week, after it received several low bids from private equity firms for the company.
With pressure mounting from shareholders because of its down-trending share price, Tribune announced in September that it would consider selling the company in part or all together.
Nothing official coming from either camp.
Two Los Angeles-based investors, billionaire philanthropist
ELI BROAD and investor RON BURKLE have submitted a bid to buy Chicago-based TRIBUNE COMPANY the parent entity which owns THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, 25 television stations and an interest in THE CW NETWORK, 10 other newspapers and THE CHICAGO CUBS.
The offer price and other details have not been disclosed, but both Broad and Burkle have made it known that they have wanted local interests to take control of THE L.A. TIMES.
The entertainment guru, DAVID GEFFEN has also declared interest in buying THE TIMES himself, but it is not known if he has submitted a bid.
Tribune has expressed its desire to keep THE TIMES as part of its media group, and has only opened up for bids on individual assets last week, after it received several low bids from private equity firms for the company.
With pressure mounting from shareholders because of its down-trending share price, Tribune announced in September that it would consider selling the company in part or all together.
Nothing official coming from either camp.
THE WEATHER CHANNEL Launches Interactive Local Weather
(From Cynopsis)
THE WEATHER CHANNEL has launched interactive local weather information and severe weather warnings for
DISH NETWORK satellite TV customers.
Targeted weather information and local content is now available nationwide for thousands of U.S. cities, accessed through a subscriber's zip code.
THE WEATHER CHANNEL will add a new interactive feature
in the next few months which will allow satellite viewers to watch their local weather during the network's LOCAL ON THE 8s segment every ten minutes.
THE WEATHER CHANNEL has launched interactive local weather information and severe weather warnings for
DISH NETWORK satellite TV customers.
Targeted weather information and local content is now available nationwide for thousands of U.S. cities, accessed through a subscriber's zip code.
THE WEATHER CHANNEL will add a new interactive feature
in the next few months which will allow satellite viewers to watch their local weather during the network's LOCAL ON THE 8s segment every ten minutes.
FCC Backtracks On Two Charges Of Indecency
(From The Los Angeles Times -- By Jim Puzzanghera)
It may be OK to swear on a news show, but profanities on other programs are still verboten, THE FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) announced Tuesday.
The agency reversed a ruling it had made that use of the word "bullshitter" on the CBS program THE EARLY SHOW was indecent.
That decision in March was particularly controversial because news shows traditionally had wide leeway on language.
The incident involved a live 2004 interview with a contestant on CBS' SURVIVOR VEANUATU who had used the word to describe a fellow contestant.
But this week the FCC said it was deferring to a "plausible characterization" by the network that the incident was a news interview, which merits a higher standard for indecency violations.
FCC Backtracks On Two Charges Of Indecency
[So, it's ok to curse on TV, just make sure it's on a news show. Gotcha.]
It may be OK to swear on a news show, but profanities on other programs are still verboten, THE FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) announced Tuesday.
The agency reversed a ruling it had made that use of the word "bullshitter" on the CBS program THE EARLY SHOW was indecent.
That decision in March was particularly controversial because news shows traditionally had wide leeway on language.
The incident involved a live 2004 interview with a contestant on CBS' SURVIVOR VEANUATU who had used the word to describe a fellow contestant.
But this week the FCC said it was deferring to a "plausible characterization" by the network that the incident was a news interview, which merits a higher standard for indecency violations.
FCC Backtracks On Two Charges Of Indecency
[So, it's ok to curse on TV, just make sure it's on a news show. Gotcha.]
YOUTUBE Gets INVENTION OF THE YEAR Honor From TIME
(From Cynopsis)
YOUTUBE, the video-sharing website recently acquired by GOOGLE for $1.65 billion, beat out a vaccine that prevents a cancer-causing sexually transmitted disease and a shirt that simulates a hug to grab top honors as TIME MAGAZINE's INVENTION OF THE YEAR FOR 2006.
TIME MAGAZINE, owned by media conglomerate
TIME WARNER, wrote in an article that YOUTUBE's scale and sudden popularity have changed the rules about how information -- along with fame and embarrassment -- gets distributed over the Web.
YOUTUBE, the video-sharing website recently acquired by GOOGLE for $1.65 billion, beat out a vaccine that prevents a cancer-causing sexually transmitted disease and a shirt that simulates a hug to grab top honors as TIME MAGAZINE's INVENTION OF THE YEAR FOR 2006.
TIME MAGAZINE, owned by media conglomerate
TIME WARNER, wrote in an article that YOUTUBE's scale and sudden popularity have changed the rules about how information -- along with fame and embarrassment -- gets distributed over the Web.
Man Injured By Launching Firework From His Bottom
(From Guardian Unlimited -- By Mark Oliver And Agencies)
A man has suffered severe internal injuries after trying to launch a powerful firework from his bottom on bonfire night, it emerged today.
It was thought that the 22-year-old was trying to copy a scene from the 2002 film JACKASS: THE MOVIE, which has long been condemned by safety campaigners and blamed for inspiring dangerous pranks.
The man is reported to have got down on all fours, lowered his trousers and fixed a BLACK CAT THUNDERBOLT ROCKET to himself in front of a group of friends at the end of a firework display in the Monkwearmouth area of Sunderland on Sunday.
Fuzzy mobile phone footage shows a blinding white flash and the group of spectators laughing.
In the JACKASS film, a rocket is launched in this way without causing injury, but the Sunderland man -- a soldier who has just returned from Iraq -- was not so lucky.
One witness described how he stood up and initially appeared to be unhurt, but then stumbled and fell to the ground, and it became clear he was bleeding.
Paramedics and police were called to the scene.
The man, whose injuries include a scorched colon, is still in hospital.
Safety experts were incredulous.
A spokesman for the Firework Association said he had never heard of an incident like it in 45 years.
He added, "This sort of thing is beyond belief."
Man Injured By Launching Firework From His Bottom
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
[Burns, didn't you and your buddies do the same thing this summer?]
A man has suffered severe internal injuries after trying to launch a powerful firework from his bottom on bonfire night, it emerged today.
It was thought that the 22-year-old was trying to copy a scene from the 2002 film JACKASS: THE MOVIE, which has long been condemned by safety campaigners and blamed for inspiring dangerous pranks.
The man is reported to have got down on all fours, lowered his trousers and fixed a BLACK CAT THUNDERBOLT ROCKET to himself in front of a group of friends at the end of a firework display in the Monkwearmouth area of Sunderland on Sunday.
Fuzzy mobile phone footage shows a blinding white flash and the group of spectators laughing.
In the JACKASS film, a rocket is launched in this way without causing injury, but the Sunderland man -- a soldier who has just returned from Iraq -- was not so lucky.
One witness described how he stood up and initially appeared to be unhurt, but then stumbled and fell to the ground, and it became clear he was bleeding.
Paramedics and police were called to the scene.
The man, whose injuries include a scorched colon, is still in hospital.
Safety experts were incredulous.
A spokesman for the Firework Association said he had never heard of an incident like it in 45 years.
He added, "This sort of thing is beyond belief."
Man Injured By Launching Firework From His Bottom
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
[Burns, didn't you and your buddies do the same thing this summer?]
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
ESPN Guards Can't Stay
(From The Hartford Courant -- By Eric Gershon)
When security guards at ESPN's headquarters learned in September that their employer, GUARDSMARK, had lost its contract with the sports network, many figured they would jump ship and join its successor.
So did the successor, SECURITAS SECURITY SERVICES USA
of New Jersey, which pitched camps in Bristol and Southington
to meet with applicants.
Then Guardsmark invoked clause 8(a) of the guards' employment contract.
It forbids them from working for other firms at locations where they were stationed by Guardsmark in the previous
12 months, a restriction that lasts a year.
Securitas responded by telling Guardsmark employees that they would not be hired for ESPN jobs, but were welcome to apply for others at the company.
With Guardsmark's ESPN contract due to expire in early December, many guards now find themselves bitterly contemplating choices that would dislodge them from jobs they like and for which they're uniquely suited by experience.
Whether they are reassigned by Guardsmark, hired by Securitas elsewhere or become unemployed, they'll be leaving the home of SPORTSCENTER and the ESPN personalities who make them proud to come to work.
"When CHRIS BERMAN walks up to you and says 'Good morning,' to you, you're nice to him," said TOM ROTON,
a Guardsmark employee stationed at ESPN in Bristol for the past two years.
About 140 guards work at ESPN's 100-acre Bristol campus and other locations in Connecticut and New York.
They typically earn between $10 and $12.50 an hour,
guards said.
ESPN Guards Can't Stay
When security guards at ESPN's headquarters learned in September that their employer, GUARDSMARK, had lost its contract with the sports network, many figured they would jump ship and join its successor.
So did the successor, SECURITAS SECURITY SERVICES USA
of New Jersey, which pitched camps in Bristol and Southington
to meet with applicants.
Then Guardsmark invoked clause 8(a) of the guards' employment contract.
It forbids them from working for other firms at locations where they were stationed by Guardsmark in the previous
12 months, a restriction that lasts a year.
Securitas responded by telling Guardsmark employees that they would not be hired for ESPN jobs, but were welcome to apply for others at the company.
With Guardsmark's ESPN contract due to expire in early December, many guards now find themselves bitterly contemplating choices that would dislodge them from jobs they like and for which they're uniquely suited by experience.
Whether they are reassigned by Guardsmark, hired by Securitas elsewhere or become unemployed, they'll be leaving the home of SPORTSCENTER and the ESPN personalities who make them proud to come to work.
"When CHRIS BERMAN walks up to you and says 'Good morning,' to you, you're nice to him," said TOM ROTON,
a Guardsmark employee stationed at ESPN in Bristol for the past two years.
About 140 guards work at ESPN's 100-acre Bristol campus and other locations in Connecticut and New York.
They typically earn between $10 and $12.50 an hour,
guards said.
ESPN Guards Can't Stay
Quote Of The Week -- PETER CHEYNEY
The line of least resistance was always the most difficult line
in the long run.
PETER CHEYNEY, English author, 1896-1951
in the long run.
PETER CHEYNEY, English author, 1896-1951
A Light Switch
(From The Hartford Courant -- By Jim Shea)
Under the best of circumstances, the changing of the clocks is
a confusing affair -- spring forward, fall back -- or is it spring back, and fall forward?
Regardless, the whole changing of the clocks ceremony is about to get even more complicated.
Beginning next year, we will turn our clocks ahead one hour on the second Sunday in March (March 11th), rather than the first Sunday in April. In the fall, we will turn our clocks back one hour on the first Sunday in November (November 4th), rather than the last Sunday in October.
These changes will give us about an extra month of DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME.
The new format was mandated by CONGRESS in 2005
as part of an energy bill.
It is claimed the adjustments will save 10,000 barrels of oil
a day.
Under the best of circumstances, the changing of the clocks is
a confusing affair -- spring forward, fall back -- or is it spring back, and fall forward?
Regardless, the whole changing of the clocks ceremony is about to get even more complicated.
Beginning next year, we will turn our clocks ahead one hour on the second Sunday in March (March 11th), rather than the first Sunday in April. In the fall, we will turn our clocks back one hour on the first Sunday in November (November 4th), rather than the last Sunday in October.
These changes will give us about an extra month of DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME.
The new format was mandated by CONGRESS in 2005
as part of an energy bill.
It is claimed the adjustments will save 10,000 barrels of oil
a day.
Quote Of The Week -- DAVID BRINKLEY
The one function TV news performs very well is that when there is no news we give it to you with the same emphasis as if there were.
DAVID BRINKLEY, American broadcast journalist, 1920-2003
DAVID BRINKLEY, American broadcast journalist, 1920-2003
Quote Of The Week
There are a lot of people that may not like what I'm saying,
but they're going to respect my decision.
but they're going to respect my decision.
Typing Speed Tracked
(From The Hartford Courant)
Have you ever wondered exactly how fast you can type?
For those obsessed with typing speed, WPM TRAY is a free, open-source program (WINDOWS only) that sits in your system tray and keeps track of your words-per-minute in real time, graphing your speed over time.
WPM TRAY is the latest release from the APP A DAY project, a cool idea where one programmer is coding one small, useful app every day for a month.
If you're looking to improve your typing speed, the instant feedback provided by WPM TRAY is handy.
Also, unlike other words-per-minute measuring tools, WPM TRAY tracks your speed when you're doing regular work, which should give you a much more accurate picture of your WPM than typing a predefined block of text.
Being able to track your progress (or lack thereof) could be a great motivator in improving typing speed.
Oh, and it's also fun to keep an eye on your typing speed (because you're vain).
Typing Speed Tracked
[O'Leary, I think this is for you.]
Have you ever wondered exactly how fast you can type?
For those obsessed with typing speed, WPM TRAY is a free, open-source program (WINDOWS only) that sits in your system tray and keeps track of your words-per-minute in real time, graphing your speed over time.
WPM TRAY is the latest release from the APP A DAY project, a cool idea where one programmer is coding one small, useful app every day for a month.
If you're looking to improve your typing speed, the instant feedback provided by WPM TRAY is handy.
Also, unlike other words-per-minute measuring tools, WPM TRAY tracks your speed when you're doing regular work, which should give you a much more accurate picture of your WPM than typing a predefined block of text.
Being able to track your progress (or lack thereof) could be a great motivator in improving typing speed.
Oh, and it's also fun to keep an eye on your typing speed (because you're vain).
Typing Speed Tracked
[O'Leary, I think this is for you.]
CNN Skewing Old
(From ShopTalk)
With FOX NEWS CHANNEL dominating cable news and MSNBC suddenly surging, CNN President JONATHAN KLEIN has been frantically trying to stop hemorrhaging younger viewers coveted by advertisers.
First he awkwardly merged PAULA ZAHN's sinking program with graybeard WOLF BLITZER's show for election season.
But that didn't solve the problem, especially among viewers 25 to 54.
So imagine the surprise when the aging cable channel ended up with retirees group AARP as its election night sponsor.
Maybe Klein's new strategy is to shore up viewership among those who can still remember when CNN was fresh and new nearly three decades ago.
With FOX NEWS CHANNEL dominating cable news and MSNBC suddenly surging, CNN President JONATHAN KLEIN has been frantically trying to stop hemorrhaging younger viewers coveted by advertisers.
First he awkwardly merged PAULA ZAHN's sinking program with graybeard WOLF BLITZER's show for election season.
But that didn't solve the problem, especially among viewers 25 to 54.
So imagine the surprise when the aging cable channel ended up with retirees group AARP as its election night sponsor.
Maybe Klein's new strategy is to shore up viewership among those who can still remember when CNN was fresh and new nearly three decades ago.
NIELSEN Waits On AVERAGE COMMERCIAL MINUTE Data
(From Cynopsis)
NIELSEN MEDIA RESEARCH has decided to wait indefinitely on releasing its first-ever AVERAGE COMMERCIAL MINUTE MIT DATA FILE SERVICE, measuring the number of people watching commercial minutes.
The service, which was delayed from its original release date, was scheduled to begin December 11th.
The delay is presumably due to disagreements between Nielsen clients and how they would like to see the data configured regarding DVR vs. live commercial minutes.
Nielsen plans to schedule a meeting with clients to discuss the best configuration for the data and after that will figure out a date to roll out the new service.
NIELSEN MEDIA RESEARCH has decided to wait indefinitely on releasing its first-ever AVERAGE COMMERCIAL MINUTE MIT DATA FILE SERVICE, measuring the number of people watching commercial minutes.
The service, which was delayed from its original release date, was scheduled to begin December 11th.
The delay is presumably due to disagreements between Nielsen clients and how they would like to see the data configured regarding DVR vs. live commercial minutes.
Nielsen plans to schedule a meeting with clients to discuss the best configuration for the data and after that will figure out a date to roll out the new service.
Slow Internet Connection? Check It With SPEEDTEST.NET
(From ShopTalk)
Ever suspect your Internet connection is too slow?
Go to SpeedTest.net and can find out for yourself.
At that site, you can get a graphical respresentation of your connection speed with servers around the world.
Here's the site's explanation:
"Speedtest.net is a general use broadband connection analysis tool with many geographically dispersed testing servers. If you are experiencing slowness with your Internet connection, Speedtest.net can help you identify and prove it. Your result history is saved so you can compare against past tests to detect trends. Share links to your result images with your ISP and friends."
SpeedTest.net
Ever suspect your Internet connection is too slow?
Go to SpeedTest.net and can find out for yourself.
At that site, you can get a graphical respresentation of your connection speed with servers around the world.
Here's the site's explanation:
"Speedtest.net is a general use broadband connection analysis tool with many geographically dispersed testing servers. If you are experiencing slowness with your Internet connection, Speedtest.net can help you identify and prove it. Your result history is saved so you can compare against past tests to detect trends. Share links to your result images with your ISP and friends."
SpeedTest.net
DAN RATHER To "Play It Straight" On COMEDY CENTRAL Tonight
(From The Philadelphia Inquirer -- By Gail Shister)
This is not a joke.
DAN RATHER will analyze election results with JON STEWART and STEPHEN COLBERT tonight at 11 pm on COMEDY CENTRAL's live, hour-long INDECISION 2006 special.
"It's a risk, I guess, but what the hell," says Rather, who covered every national election since 1962 for CBS before being drop-kicked in June. Now he's global correspondent for
MARK CUBAN's HDNET.
"J. Stewart and company offered the chance, and I've taken it," Rather, 75, says. "I don't do comedy, I do politics, which sometimes is one and the same."
"Certainly, one can't cover politics and not have a sense of humor about it. Let's face it, politics is often a theater of the absurd."
Equally absurd are the corny RATHERISMS he dragged out during many election-night marathons.
Among our faves -- "If a frog had side pockets, he'd carry a handgun."
And -- "This race is tight like a too-small bathing suit on a too-long ride home from the beach."
Don't look for such classic nuggets on tonight's Midterm Midtacular, Rather says.
Dan Rather To "Play It Straight" On Comedy Central Tonight
This is not a joke.
DAN RATHER will analyze election results with JON STEWART and STEPHEN COLBERT tonight at 11 pm on COMEDY CENTRAL's live, hour-long INDECISION 2006 special.
"It's a risk, I guess, but what the hell," says Rather, who covered every national election since 1962 for CBS before being drop-kicked in June. Now he's global correspondent for
MARK CUBAN's HDNET.
"J. Stewart and company offered the chance, and I've taken it," Rather, 75, says. "I don't do comedy, I do politics, which sometimes is one and the same."
"Certainly, one can't cover politics and not have a sense of humor about it. Let's face it, politics is often a theater of the absurd."
Equally absurd are the corny RATHERISMS he dragged out during many election-night marathons.
Among our faves -- "If a frog had side pockets, he'd carry a handgun."
And -- "This race is tight like a too-small bathing suit on a too-long ride home from the beach."
Don't look for such classic nuggets on tonight's Midterm Midtacular, Rather says.
Dan Rather To "Play It Straight" On Comedy Central Tonight
COMCAST To Carry FOX’S Planned Business News Channel
(From Cynopsis/The New York Times)
While nobody is saying for sure whether or not NEWS CORP. will actually launch a new business news channel, RUPERT MURDOCH has secured a carriage deal for it on the COMCAST digital tier.
THE NEW YORK TIMES reports that while NEWS CORP. has not made a final decision to definitely launch the FOX NEWS CHANNEL spinoff, last month at News Corp.'s annual meeting Murdoch said the channel would definitely go forward in 2007.
Combined with the News Corp. controlled DIRECTTV audience, the new channel could potentially kick off with a subscriber base of 27.5 million.
Comcast To Carry Fox's Planned Business News Channel
While nobody is saying for sure whether or not NEWS CORP. will actually launch a new business news channel, RUPERT MURDOCH has secured a carriage deal for it on the COMCAST digital tier.
THE NEW YORK TIMES reports that while NEWS CORP. has not made a final decision to definitely launch the FOX NEWS CHANNEL spinoff, last month at News Corp.'s annual meeting Murdoch said the channel would definitely go forward in 2007.
Combined with the News Corp. controlled DIRECTTV audience, the new channel could potentially kick off with a subscriber base of 27.5 million.
Comcast To Carry Fox's Planned Business News Channel
Getting To Know Cute, Courting Cute, Marrying Cute
(From TVWeek.com -- By Michele Greppi)
ALISON STEWART and BILL WOLFF didn't just meet cute. They got to know each other cute before courting cute and, on November 4th, marrying cute.
Oh, and he got human resources' blessing before asking her for an actual date that would take their friendship to the proverbial next level.
He didn't propose so cute, but even that seems cute.
Folks who know the brainy and exotically beautiful daytime MSNBC anchor and the quick-witted, unflappable and boy-next-door-ish MSNBC prime-time VP are delighted by it all because to know either one of them is to adore them.
To listen to them complete each other's sentences and stories is alternately charming and alarmingly twins-like.
Their story also is a testament to waiting for Mr. or Ms. Right instead of settling for Mr. or Ms. All Right For Now.
This is the first marriage, at age 40, for both.
Getting To Know Cute, Courting Cute, Marrying Cute
[Wow! Congratulations Bill (and Alison)! Seems like along time since the days of VICTOR STARR on ESPN2's SPORTSNITE.
But the whole story is "classic" Bill Wolff. As Victor Starr would say, "Terrific."]
ALISON STEWART and BILL WOLFF didn't just meet cute. They got to know each other cute before courting cute and, on November 4th, marrying cute.
Oh, and he got human resources' blessing before asking her for an actual date that would take their friendship to the proverbial next level.
He didn't propose so cute, but even that seems cute.
Folks who know the brainy and exotically beautiful daytime MSNBC anchor and the quick-witted, unflappable and boy-next-door-ish MSNBC prime-time VP are delighted by it all because to know either one of them is to adore them.
To listen to them complete each other's sentences and stories is alternately charming and alarmingly twins-like.
Their story also is a testament to waiting for Mr. or Ms. Right instead of settling for Mr. or Ms. All Right For Now.
This is the first marriage, at age 40, for both.
Getting To Know Cute, Courting Cute, Marrying Cute
[Wow! Congratulations Bill (and Alison)! Seems like along time since the days of VICTOR STARR on ESPN2's SPORTSNITE.
But the whole story is "classic" Bill Wolff. As Victor Starr would say, "Terrific."]
Quote Of The Week -- JAY LENO
Who would have ever thought that the Democrats would miss the wit and charisma of AL GORE?
JAY LENO
JAY LENO
Monday, November 06, 2006
BUSINESSWEEK -- THE BEST PLACES TO LAUNCH A CAREER
(From BusinessWeek.com)
THE 50 BEST PLACES TO LAUNCH A CAREER for new college graduates according to BUSINESSWEEK MAGAZINE.
DISNEY (ESPN) is the number one employer for new
college grads.
BusinessWeek -- The Best Places To Launch A Career
Brian Rourke, thanks for the post.
THE 50 BEST PLACES TO LAUNCH A CAREER for new college graduates according to BUSINESSWEEK MAGAZINE.
DISNEY (ESPN) is the number one employer for new
college grads.
BusinessWeek -- The Best Places To Launch A Career
Brian Rourke, thanks for the post.
Five Voice-Over Guys In A Limo
In a world where a select group of men use their unique voice-over talents comes the short film that brought a nation to its feet.
Starring DON LaFONTAINE, JOHN LEADER, AL CHALK,
MARK ELLIOT, and NICK TATE.
[This is fantasic! So, do you really remember the movie trailers or their voices? Sound wins, again.]
COMEDIAN Trailer Featuring HAL DOUGLAS
Here's the hilarious movie trailer for JERRY SEINFELD's movie COMEDIAN featuring HAL DOUGLAS as a voice over guy that wants to do his own thing and not taking direction.
Comedian Trailer
DON LaFONTAINE Feature On GOOD MORNING AMERICA
You may not know the name, but you definitely know the voice.
Here's a feature on voice over legend DON LaFONTAINE from ABC's GOOD MORNING AMERICA.
Paying Attention To The Cutting In Editing
Back in college a film editor told the class to turn off the sound and pay close attention to the cutting and pacing of a feature.
His logic was the sound portion of a film with music score, dialog and sfx will distract you from the actual cutting and pacing of scenes.
He said a well-edited film would still make sense and flow without sound or subtitles.
[I remember when viewing 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY without audio in the class, the dead silent outer space scene's were stark and strikingly nerve wracking.]
His logic was the sound portion of a film with music score, dialog and sfx will distract you from the actual cutting and pacing of scenes.
He said a well-edited film would still make sense and flow without sound or subtitles.
[I remember when viewing 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY without audio in the class, the dead silent outer space scene's were stark and strikingly nerve wracking.]
Quote Of The Week -- SOUND VS. PICTURE
The next time you're editing a feature, turn off the sound and see if it still makes sense. Now turn off the picture.
Quote Of The Week -- DROP/NON-DROP FRAME
And we used to think drop frame vs non-drop frame was a hassle.
Fun With An Old Computer Hard Drive
We took the platters out of many hard drives and put them into one drive, then spun it up to speed, gave it a nudge and watched the fun.
[Hmmm, this looks very much like TECH FAC at Ithaca College.
Is that DON in the video?]
[According to LEVI from GAMECREEK VIDEO, if you take the right size DREMEL sanding drum, you can do something similar with AOL CD's they send you in the mail. Found out that at a certain RPM, the CD will shatter when it contacts a brick wall. Ahh, the busy life of an EIC on the road.]
TRACE ADKINS -- HONKY TONK BADONKADONK
Guaranteed that one play and you'll be singing this song the rest of the day.
Felicia Cordell, thanks for the post.
[We love this song!]
Quote Of The Week -- SIGMUND FREUD
Love and work are the cornerstones of our humanness.
SIGMUND FREUD
SIGMUND FREUD
Quote Of The Week -- SARCASM
Sarcasm is the refuge for people who know they are wrong and are on the ropes.
BROTHERS AND SISTERS
(Sundays at 10 pm, ABC)
BROTHERS AND SISTERS
(Sundays at 10 pm, ABC)
Quote Of The Week -- GREY'S ANATOMY
You're either ham or eggs. You have to ask yourself in every situation -- are you the chicken or are you the pig?
You have a plate of ham and eggs. Now the chicken is involved in the meal, but the pig is committed.
So the question is -- are you involved or are you committed?
Ham or eggs.
GREY'S ANATOMY
(Thursdays at 9 pm, ABC)
You have a plate of ham and eggs. Now the chicken is involved in the meal, but the pig is committed.
So the question is -- are you involved or are you committed?
Ham or eggs.
GREY'S ANATOMY
(Thursdays at 9 pm, ABC)
Quote Of The Week -- A GOOD YEAR
This place just doesn't suit my life.
No, it is your life that doesn't suit this place.
RUSSELL CROWE in A GOOD YEAR
No, it is your life that doesn't suit this place.
RUSSELL CROWE in A GOOD YEAR
NEWS CORP. Wins TIMES SQUARE Screen
(From The Hollywood Reporter -- By Georg Szalai)
NEWS CORP. has taken over the programming of a giant screen in TIMES SQUARE and has started offering news, sports and other content from across its operations.
News Corp. said it won the screen deal from NBC as of October 1st under a 10-year agreement with ONE TIMES SQUARE, with PANASONIC CORP. of North America serving as a sub-lessee of the screen.
News Corp. will deliver at least three hours of live programming daily on the PANASONIC ASTROVISION SCREEN, including an hour each of FOX 5's GOOD DAY NEW YORK, as well as FOX NEWS' FOX AND FRIENDS and
FOX REPORT WITH SHEPARD SMITH.
The media giant said it also will deliver live feeds from
FOX SPORTS, including the NFL and NASCAR's DAYTONA 500.
NEWS CORP. has taken over the programming of a giant screen in TIMES SQUARE and has started offering news, sports and other content from across its operations.
News Corp. said it won the screen deal from NBC as of October 1st under a 10-year agreement with ONE TIMES SQUARE, with PANASONIC CORP. of North America serving as a sub-lessee of the screen.
News Corp. will deliver at least three hours of live programming daily on the PANASONIC ASTROVISION SCREEN, including an hour each of FOX 5's GOOD DAY NEW YORK, as well as FOX NEWS' FOX AND FRIENDS and
FOX REPORT WITH SHEPARD SMITH.
The media giant said it also will deliver live feeds from
FOX SPORTS, including the NFL and NASCAR's DAYTONA 500.
LEE GOLDBERG Takes Over For SAM CHAMPION
(From The New York Post)LEE GOLDBERG, the understudy to WABC-Channel 7 weatherman SAM CHAMPION for nearly a decade, is getting the job permanantly, station officials said.
Champion moved up to GOOD MORNING AMERICA last month.
The competition for Sam's spot on the local newscast has been pretty much between Goldberg -- the weekend forecaster -- and BILL EVANS, the veteran morning weatherman for the station for many years.
It is not known if Evans will remain with the station.
Goldberg's designation as chief weatherman for the station's 5, 6 and 11 pm newscasts was made in a memo circulated among the staff by the station's news director, KEN PLOTNICK.
[Congratulations and way to go Lee! It seems a long way from ICTV now, hunh? We'll be watching.]
Parking Lot Speed Limit
Safety is a major concern at the manufacturing company where I work. I'm constantly preaching caution to the workers I supervise.
"Does anyone know what the speed limit is in our parking lot?" I asked a few guys.
The long silence that followed was interrupted when one of them piped up.
"That depends. Do you mean coming in to work or leaving?"
Laura Roberts, thanks for the post.
"Does anyone know what the speed limit is in our parking lot?" I asked a few guys.
The long silence that followed was interrupted when one of them piped up.
"That depends. Do you mean coming in to work or leaving?"
Laura Roberts, thanks for the post.
THE GEORGE W. BUSH SPEECHWRITER
Ever want to write a speech for GEORGE W. BUSH?
Now you can!
Use your mouse to drag and drop the words and phrases from the bank on the left to the speech on the right.
You can remove words from the speech of rearrange them in a similar drag and drop manner.
Once you're happy with your speechwriting effort, press PLAY to hear George your carefully crafted effort.
The George W. Bush Speechwriter
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Now you can!
Use your mouse to drag and drop the words and phrases from the bank on the left to the speech on the right.
You can remove words from the speech of rearrange them in a similar drag and drop manner.
Once you're happy with your speechwriting effort, press PLAY to hear George your carefully crafted effort.
The George W. Bush Speechwriter
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Voting Test
What if you had to pass a test in order to vote?
Would you pass?
Take the test and find out.
Voting Test
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
Would you pass?
Take the test and find out.
Voting Test
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
The Slot Machine For Men
Also known as THE SLUT MACHINE.
The Slot Machine For Men
June Labay, thanks for the post.
[Good luck gamblers!]
The Slot Machine For Men
June Labay, thanks for the post.
[Good luck gamblers!]
APPLE MAGSAFE AIRLINE POWER ADAPTER
(From Apple.com)
Next time you take your MACBOOK or MACBOOK PRO on a long flight, be sure to pack APPLE'S new MAGSAFE AIRLINE POWER ADAPTER.
The adapter plugs right into most airline seat power ports, letting you watch DVDs, edit a FINAL CUT project, or update your APERATURE library throughout your flight.
Apple MagSafe Airline Power Adapter
Next time you take your MACBOOK or MACBOOK PRO on a long flight, be sure to pack APPLE'S new MAGSAFE AIRLINE POWER ADAPTER.
The adapter plugs right into most airline seat power ports, letting you watch DVDs, edit a FINAL CUT project, or update your APERATURE library throughout your flight.
Apple MagSafe Airline Power Adapter
Why English Officers Wore Red Coats
A long time ago, Britain and France were at war.
During one battle, the French captured an English colonel. They took him to their headquarters, and the French general began to question him.
Finally, as an after thought, the French general asked, "Why do your English officers all wear red coats? Don't you know the red material makes you easier targets for us to shoot at?"
In his bland English way, the officer informed the general that the reason English officers wear red coats is so that if they are shot the blood won't show, and the men they are leading won't panic.
And that is why, from that day to this, all French Army officers wear brown pants.
Tom Blais, thanks for the post.
During one battle, the French captured an English colonel. They took him to their headquarters, and the French general began to question him.
Finally, as an after thought, the French general asked, "Why do your English officers all wear red coats? Don't you know the red material makes you easier targets for us to shoot at?"
In his bland English way, the officer informed the general that the reason English officers wear red coats is so that if they are shot the blood won't show, and the men they are leading won't panic.
And that is why, from that day to this, all French Army officers wear brown pants.
Tom Blais, thanks for the post.
Friday, November 03, 2006
DISNEY'S Risks Made Fairy Tales Come True
(From Yahoo.com/The Hollywood Reporter)
Entertainment and media companies are in an embattled mode, and retrenchment is the order of the day.
This summer, even as it fielded the season's top two hits -- PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST and CARS -- THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY ordered 650 layoffs worldwide.
All across town, studios have been cutting back on production deals and big-budget movies.
But one of the many lessons from NEIL GABLER's newly published and richly detailed biography WALT DISNEY: THE TRIUMPH OF THE AMERICAN IMAGINATION (Knopf) is that
it takes money to make money.
If there was a pattern to Disney's career, it is that, in pursuit of creative risks, he repeatedly overextended his company.
He was often in hock to creditors, especially BANK OF AMERICA.
But the risks generally paid off.
Disney himself saw to it that the animators were paid $750,000 in bonuses for their round-the-clock work.
As Gabler observes, "Money was just instrumental for Walt,
a way for him to make his films."
It's a lesson that Hollywood ignores when it treats films as nothing more than quarterly accounting items.
Disney's Risks Made Fairy Tales Come True
Tom Blais, thanks for the post.
Entertainment and media companies are in an embattled mode, and retrenchment is the order of the day.
This summer, even as it fielded the season's top two hits -- PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST and CARS -- THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY ordered 650 layoffs worldwide.
All across town, studios have been cutting back on production deals and big-budget movies.
But one of the many lessons from NEIL GABLER's newly published and richly detailed biography WALT DISNEY: THE TRIUMPH OF THE AMERICAN IMAGINATION (Knopf) is that
it takes money to make money.
If there was a pattern to Disney's career, it is that, in pursuit of creative risks, he repeatedly overextended his company.
He was often in hock to creditors, especially BANK OF AMERICA.
But the risks generally paid off.
Disney himself saw to it that the animators were paid $750,000 in bonuses for their round-the-clock work.
As Gabler observes, "Money was just instrumental for Walt,
a way for him to make his films."
It's a lesson that Hollywood ignores when it treats films as nothing more than quarterly accounting items.
Disney's Risks Made Fairy Tales Come True
Tom Blais, thanks for the post.
Cell Phones Ready For Their Close-Up
(From The Associated Press -- By Jenny Barchfield)"Silence on the set," ordered movie director XAVIER MUSSEL as he grabbed his cell phone -- not to make a call but to film another scene for his short film.
Cheap, easy and accessible, mobiles-as-movie cameras are breaking the motion picture mold, putting a touch of Hollywood into amateur filmmakers' hands.
How-to workshops have sprung up from Boston to Abu Dhabi to Rio de Janeiro, and Paris just held its second film festival devoted exclusively to movies shot with cells.
Cell Phones Ready For Their Close-Up
Thursday, November 02, 2006
JOANNE NESTI Stepping Down
Veteran Hartford news anchor JOANNE NESTI will end a 25-year broadcasting career next month when she voluntarily leaves NBC O&O WVIT-30 on December 22nd.Tim Harmon, thanks for the post.
[What will GERRY BROOKS do now?]
This Is Where We Live
(From Time.com)
Take a look at America by the numbers.
No surprise, 80% of the U.S. population lives in a metropolitan area.
NEW JERSEY is the most densely populated state with 1,134 people per square mile.
This Is Where We Live
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
[Once again, Connecticut doesn't make the cut.]
Take a look at America by the numbers.
No surprise, 80% of the U.S. population lives in a metropolitan area.
NEW JERSEY is the most densely populated state with 1,134 people per square mile.
This Is Where We Live
Scott O'Leary, thanks for the post.
[Once again, Connecticut doesn't make the cut.]
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