Back to the DeLorean [Teaser] from Jordan Livingston on Vimeo.
14 December 2009
12 December 2009
Hot Wheels - 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 Part II
You have seen the pictures, now the story behind how it got made.
I was never really a 'car guy', I know, funny that I work on cars all day. But, there is one car that I have always had an interest in...the DeLorean DMC-12. Through the years, I have collected various DeLoreans from toy cars, books, videos, limited edition items, Back to the Future stuff. You name it, if it is a DeLorean product, I most likely have it.
Back in 2001, I suggested the idea that Hot Wheels should do a DeLorean for the basic car line. Well, that never happened. Fast forward to 2007, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I decided to make one myself. If anything, at least I have a one of a kind DMC. At the time, I was working on a few cars for the 2008 Basic Car line.
Working late hours, off the clock, I spent about forty hours (over the course of about a month) modeling the car. I worked off of my personal collection of pictures, drawings, books, and toy replicas. In December of 2007, I finished a solid model of the car. As far as I was concerned, it was dead on model.
In February of 2008, I decided to take it a step further. I was going to split the solid model in preparation of production. Hot Wheels cars are made of four to five pieces: body, glass, interior, chassis. This would required another thirty to forty hours, as I needed to do all the engineering. Again, all undercover. No one knew I was doing this. I finished the car, all parted out and ready for production, in March.
At the time, I had already worked on about 40% of the 2009 line. So, they kinda owed my a favour. There was a competition to design a car for the 2009 line, this was the perfect time to show the team what I had done. I gave them the model, a semi turnover package and basically said, "You guys will put the DeLorean in the Basic Car line, all you need is a license." The Jedi mind trick worked...okay, I begged like a kid in a toy store. They even gave me "designer" credit for the car. I also provided them with leads to get the license from DeLorean Motor Company in Humble, Texas.
The license from DMC was acquired, model and paper work was turned over. By summer, I saw pre-production samples. In late November, it was shipped to stores across the world. The DeLorean is officially part of the Hot Wheels line. I am proud to say that I was a huge part in bringing my favourite car to the line. I also had a lot of help from other designers, graphic designer, and licensing. Oh, and thanks to Delorean Motor Company for approving everything.
So now, I can add the Hot Wheels 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 to the collection.
...there is one more version I need to get. More on that later, hopefully
I was never really a 'car guy', I know, funny that I work on cars all day. But, there is one car that I have always had an interest in...the DeLorean DMC-12. Through the years, I have collected various DeLoreans from toy cars, books, videos, limited edition items, Back to the Future stuff. You name it, if it is a DeLorean product, I most likely have it.
Back in 2001, I suggested the idea that Hot Wheels should do a DeLorean for the basic car line. Well, that never happened. Fast forward to 2007, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I decided to make one myself. If anything, at least I have a one of a kind DMC. At the time, I was working on a few cars for the 2008 Basic Car line.
Working late hours, off the clock, I spent about forty hours (over the course of about a month) modeling the car. I worked off of my personal collection of pictures, drawings, books, and toy replicas. In December of 2007, I finished a solid model of the car. As far as I was concerned, it was dead on model.
In February of 2008, I decided to take it a step further. I was going to split the solid model in preparation of production. Hot Wheels cars are made of four to five pieces: body, glass, interior, chassis. This would required another thirty to forty hours, as I needed to do all the engineering. Again, all undercover. No one knew I was doing this. I finished the car, all parted out and ready for production, in March.
At the time, I had already worked on about 40% of the 2009 line. So, they kinda owed my a favour. There was a competition to design a car for the 2009 line, this was the perfect time to show the team what I had done. I gave them the model, a semi turnover package and basically said, "You guys will put the DeLorean in the Basic Car line, all you need is a license." The Jedi mind trick worked...okay, I begged like a kid in a toy store. They even gave me "designer" credit for the car. I also provided them with leads to get the license from DeLorean Motor Company in Humble, Texas.
The license from DMC was acquired, model and paper work was turned over. By summer, I saw pre-production samples. In late November, it was shipped to stores across the world. The DeLorean is officially part of the Hot Wheels line. I am proud to say that I was a huge part in bringing my favourite car to the line. I also had a lot of help from other designers, graphic designer, and licensing. Oh, and thanks to Delorean Motor Company for approving everything.
So now, I can add the Hot Wheels 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 to the collection.
...there is one more version I need to get. More on that later, hopefully
03 December 2009
07 November 2009
05 November 2009
Getting Theoren Fleury's Autograph Part II
Guess what I got in the mail, today.
The book, not the jeresys. I have had those for a while. Here, let us take a looksy inside...
Yeah Baby! Personalized and signed by Theoren Fleury. How awesome is that? Well, not as awesome as walkinvisible, for standing in line to get it for me. Thanks, E!
The book, not the jeresys. I have had those for a while. Here, let us take a looksy inside...
Yeah Baby! Personalized and signed by Theoren Fleury. How awesome is that? Well, not as awesome as walkinvisible, for standing in line to get it for me. Thanks, E!
25 October 2009
Getting Theoren Fleury's Autograph
Theoren Fleury has a new book out. He is currently on tour across Canada, promoting the book. This includes television and radio appearances, and book signings in local book stores. Unfortunately, I know very few people in Canada. How would I ever get a copy of Playing With Fire with Theo's autograph? More on that later, first little back story. A flashback, if you will.
Theoren Fleury was/is the reason I got into hockey. He is and will always be my favourite player of all time, forever and ever. Fleury is also the reason I am a huge Calgary Flames Fan.
Back when the Sharks played at the Cow Palace, my dad took me to my first hockey game. I wanted to see Fleury play. He was easy to spot, not only because he was small. But, he just signed with Jofa/Titan and his Jofa helmet was a brighter red than his team mates. I really do not remember the out come of the game. Pretty sure the Flames won.
After the game, we went to where the players area. I wanted to meet him. I had a drawing that I did of him in art class. Security did not allow us back in the dressing room area, but one security lady asked if I wanted my poster signed. I had a Sharpie clipped to the drawing, she took it to the back. A few minutes later, she walked out and handed me my drawing with Fleury's autograph on it. That was awesome, you can see how I totally forgot who won the game. Yeah, I still have that drawing somewhere in my parent's house.
Obviously, I was a huge collector of Fleury hockey cards. I got my hands on a few 1989-90 O-Pee-Chee #232 cards. I decided to get one signed. So, I wrote a fan letter to Fleury, and sent it to the Olympic Saddledome, the only address I had for Fleury. I enclosed the card and self addressed stamped envelope. A few months later, I got it back...signed! I realise that I sound like an eighth grade girl, here. But, I was really excited.
Fast forward a few years at another Sharks game. I wore my Flames jersey, hoping to get it signed. This time, I waited outside where the players exited the building. I greeted a bunch of the Flames players. Most of the Flames players walked out, but he was in the back seat of a car. I tried to get his attention so I could get my jersey signed. He kinda ignored me, I could barely see him through the tinted glass. Anyway, Trevor Kidd walked up to me and asked if I wanted my jersey signed. What was I to do? The guy is like 6'-2", I am like 5'-6". So now, I have a Fleury jersey with Kidd's signature on it. Kinda like having a picture of Sean Connery, signed by Roger Moore.
Back to the book signing. Yesterday, Fleury was doing his signing in Calgary. I contacted the only person I knew in Calgary. Actually, we have never met. I read her blog, and she tells me to update mine more so she can read mine. We follow each other on a few online social networks, that is about it. Basically, I asked if she wanted to stand in line for a few hours and get a signed copy of Theo's book, all for someone she does not even really know. Well, she agreed to it. She even wrote about it on her blog. I guess the book is on its way, I will update with photos when I get it.
Thanks again to walkinvisible, I owe you big time!
21 October 2009
14 October 2009
Playing With Fire
Theoren Fleury's tell all book is out today.
From TheoFleury14.com:
"A first hand account of Theo's heartpounding journey. Theo's self insight makes for a real page turner!"
"Theo Fleury, at 5'6" made a name for himself in a game played by giants. A star in junior hockey, he became an integral part of the Calgary Flames’ Stanley Cup win in 1989. Fleury’s talent was such that despite a growing drug habit and erratic, inexplicable behaviour on and off the ice, Wayne Gretzky believed in him. He became a key member of the gold medal–winning men’s hockey team at the 2002 Olympics.
The Colorado Avalanche picked up Fleury for the playoffs, and when he signed with the New York Rangers, he was a kid in a candy store. After one season of his next multi-million-dollar deal, this time with the Chicago Blackhawks, Fleury suddenly called it quits and wouldn’t explain why.
In Playing with Fire, Theo Fleury takes us behind the bench during his glorious days as an NHL player and talks about growing up devastatingly poor and in chaos at home. Dark personal issues haunted him, with drinking, drugs, gambling and girls ultimately derailing his Hall of Fame–calibre career."
I ordered my copy.
12 October 2009
09 October 2009
Shoe Sizes
For years, I have heard the rumor that former NHL defenseman Paul Coffey wore skates that were two sizes smaller. I think this is a myth. Why? First of all, have you ever put on shoes that were a half size too small? Not fun. You immediately take them off. Imagine walking in those shoes for an hour...now imagine skating in them. Yeah, not gonna happen. Secondly, and more importantly, skate sizes run large. So, you would not be wearing the same size shoe as you do with skates.
I just got an new pair of skates, since I am playing hockey again. Here is the deal...why is there not a universal shoe/skate size? Now, I have lots of pairs of shoes. I am kinda a shoe whore, but not as much as most women. Yeah, I said it. In my adventures of looking for shoes, I have noticed that shoe sizes differ from company to company. Heck, they even differ from model to model. I have ordered 'custom' shoes from NikeID and while I order my usual Nike size, they fit about a half size too small.
Note: Your feet do swell up in the middle of the day and depending on the temperature. Trust me on this, I used to work at an ice rink and I sold many pairs of skates.
So, why is there not a universal size that we can refer to. Well, there kinda is. Let me explain, we will use my shoe size as an example. Why, because this is my blog and no one reads this anyways. In shoes, I wear a size US 8 (generally), which works out to be a UK 7, Euro 40.5, and 26.5cm. It translates to a size 6.5 skate.
That last one, 26.5cm, which what the Japanese use to size their shoes. Notice they do not go by inches. Centimeters, an actual measurement of one's foot, something we can and should all go by. Like metric and SAE, the world will never agree on a standard on shoe sizes. I wish there was a standard shoe size...it would bring us a step closer to world peace. Okay, not really. But it would sure make my life, and yours, a whole lot easier when shopping for shoes...or skates.
I just got an new pair of skates, since I am playing hockey again. Here is the deal...why is there not a universal shoe/skate size? Now, I have lots of pairs of shoes. I am kinda a shoe whore, but not as much as most women. Yeah, I said it. In my adventures of looking for shoes, I have noticed that shoe sizes differ from company to company. Heck, they even differ from model to model. I have ordered 'custom' shoes from NikeID and while I order my usual Nike size, they fit about a half size too small.
Note: Your feet do swell up in the middle of the day and depending on the temperature. Trust me on this, I used to work at an ice rink and I sold many pairs of skates.
So, why is there not a universal size that we can refer to. Well, there kinda is. Let me explain, we will use my shoe size as an example. Why, because this is my blog and no one reads this anyways. In shoes, I wear a size US 8 (generally), which works out to be a UK 7, Euro 40.5, and 26.5cm. It translates to a size 6.5 skate.
That last one, 26.5cm, which what the Japanese use to size their shoes. Notice they do not go by inches. Centimeters, an actual measurement of one's foot, something we can and should all go by. Like metric and SAE, the world will never agree on a standard on shoe sizes. I wish there was a standard shoe size...it would bring us a step closer to world peace. Okay, not really. But it would sure make my life, and yours, a whole lot easier when shopping for shoes...or skates.
Random Thought
So, I paid to get this new domain, yet I rarely update. Is it a waste of money? Not really. But, I really should update this with more content. The trouble is, I never really liked to read or write. Oh well, I figured I should at least have something for October...and here it is. Hope you enjoyed it. Yeah, I know. You want your twenty seconds of your life back. I promise the next post will be better than this one...but not by much.
28 September 2009
22 September 2009
20 September 2009
First Career Hat Trick
Played my first hockey game in 5-6 years. Also, it was my first roller hockey game. I knew going in that there are subtle differences between ice and roller...like not stopping. Anyways, I just went out there to have some fun and to get some much needed exercise.
Here is a summary of what I did in the game:
GASPING FOR AIR THE ENTIRE TIME.
First period. Scored two goals. One on my knees, one on my stomach...both while falling down. I would like to think that it is because I am used to ice. Nah, that is just the way I play. I like being in front of the net looking for rebounds and deflecting shots.
Second period. Got pulled down on a semi-break away, awarded a penalty shot. You may be thinking, "Hey, two goals. This must be how he got the hat trick". Nope. Then, "the goalie must had made a great save". Wrong, again. I took the puck from center ice (Yeah, I am still going to call it ice. Even though it is cement with a layer of paint.), skated toward the net, got to the face off circles and...fell. Yeah, I just fell. It was awesome, I am sure you will see it on SportCenter highlights for years to come. I got up and congratulated the goalie on a nice save. Oh, and the bench cheered.
Third period. Offensive face off. I stood in front of the goalie, hoping for a one-timer or to rush the net. Face off is won, puck comes towards me as I get into position...the puck deflects off my skate. I get credited with the goal. First career hat trick.
...and yes, still gasping for air.
Here is a summary of what I did in the game:
GASPING FOR AIR THE ENTIRE TIME.
First period. Scored two goals. One on my knees, one on my stomach...both while falling down. I would like to think that it is because I am used to ice. Nah, that is just the way I play. I like being in front of the net looking for rebounds and deflecting shots.
Second period. Got pulled down on a semi-break away, awarded a penalty shot. You may be thinking, "Hey, two goals. This must be how he got the hat trick". Nope. Then, "the goalie must had made a great save". Wrong, again. I took the puck from center ice (Yeah, I am still going to call it ice. Even though it is cement with a layer of paint.), skated toward the net, got to the face off circles and...fell. Yeah, I just fell. It was awesome, I am sure you will see it on SportCenter highlights for years to come. I got up and congratulated the goalie on a nice save. Oh, and the bench cheered.
Third period. Offensive face off. I stood in front of the goalie, hoping for a one-timer or to rush the net. Face off is won, puck comes towards me as I get into position...the puck deflects off my skate. I get credited with the goal. First career hat trick.
...and yes, still gasping for air.
Fleury Nets Two Points In Flames Win
Calgary Flames defeated the Florida Panthers 5-2, in their pre-season game. Flames right winger Theoren Fleury scored a goal and added an assist in his second game of his comeback. He made get his chance to play with the Flames during the season if he keeps this up.Fleury assist came when he made a beautiful pass to Daymond Langkow in the second period. Fleury rushed the net, looking for a rebound, but Langkow's shot trickled passed the Florida net minder. The crowd at Pengrowth Saddledome went wild when his assist was announced through the public announcement system. In the third period, Fleury made a nifty move and scored on the backhand, five hole. Again, the crowd went wild with chants of "THEO! THEO! THEO!".
Funny thing is, NHL.com has the assist listed as "more" and the goal listed as "Unknown Backhand". Fleury is not listed on the NHL.com roster.
Two points in two game, plus a shootout winner. I know it is just pre-season, but this season could be fun to watch. Maybe I should head up to Calgary to see a game. Who knows, maybe I will get a chance to Fleury play again.
Heroes Season 4
The fourth season of Heroes starts Monday at 8PM on NBC with a two hour episode. Yeah, it might kinda suck, but it is still on of the better shows on television.
16 September 2009
Playing Hockey Again.
I guess I should make a few comments about Theoren Fleury's attempt at a comeback. He has a been invited to the Calgary Flames' training camp and will hit the ice tomorrow in a pre-season game against the New York Islanders. This is pretty damn exciting for me, as Fleury was, and still is, my favourite player.
On a similar note, I am also on a comeback trail myself. I will started playing hockey again this weekend. Even though it is inline and not ice, it is still hockey. Is it a coincidence that we both start playing hockey again after a long absence from the game? Yeah, probably.
Will try to update stats and summaries of my games here so
Update: Theo scores the shootout winner for the Flames.
What Good Is A Photograph Of You?
I just got back from vacation and boy, I tell you, I took a lot of pictures. I like taking pictures of random things, things like man hole covers from different countries. Of course, like everyone else, I take photos of landmarks and things like that.
Usually, I like the subject of the photo to be just the thing I am interested. Meaning, I am happy with a picture of just the Great Pyramid...I do not need to be in the photo. I take above average photos, not great, but good...enough. I will even lend a hand to a stranger and take a photo of them with a landmark or whatever. The trouble is, when I have to ask a stranger to take a photo of me with said pyramid and he/she takes a photo of me. Just me, with some sky and sand...no pyramid. What the fuck? I know what I look like, I have tons of photos of me, and I have a mirror. I do not need another picture of me standing there in like an idiot.
People, when someone asks you to take a photo of them, it is your responsibility to take a good photo of them AND the more interesting background. Leave a little space. Give the subject (person) about 1/3 of the frame. Give some head room, eyes should be about 1/3 from the top of the frame. Have the person turn slightly and make sure that the background is the main focus of the image. Believe me, they will thank you when they see the image, and sincerely mean it.
I have given my camera to a many strangers...most have failed. In this digital age, you can take as many photos as you want (given the disc space). So, offer to take two or three for 'safety'.
Oh, one more thing. If you are getting your picture taken...KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN until way after the picture is taken. Picture taker should check to see that all subjects have eyes open.
That is all for now. Say 'cheese'.
Usually, I like the subject of the photo to be just the thing I am interested. Meaning, I am happy with a picture of just the Great Pyramid...I do not need to be in the photo. I take above average photos, not great, but good...enough. I will even lend a hand to a stranger and take a photo of them with a landmark or whatever. The trouble is, when I have to ask a stranger to take a photo of me with said pyramid and he/she takes a photo of me. Just me, with some sky and sand...no pyramid. What the fuck? I know what I look like, I have tons of photos of me, and I have a mirror. I do not need another picture of me standing there in like an idiot.
People, when someone asks you to take a photo of them, it is your responsibility to take a good photo of them AND the more interesting background. Leave a little space. Give the subject (person) about 1/3 of the frame. Give some head room, eyes should be about 1/3 from the top of the frame. Have the person turn slightly and make sure that the background is the main focus of the image. Believe me, they will thank you when they see the image, and sincerely mean it.
I have given my camera to a many strangers...most have failed. In this digital age, you can take as many photos as you want (given the disc space). So, offer to take two or three for 'safety'.
Oh, one more thing. If you are getting your picture taken...KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN until way after the picture is taken. Picture taker should check to see that all subjects have eyes open.
That is all for now. Say 'cheese'.
26 August 2009
Waiting In Line At Toys 'R' Us
I go to Toys 'R' Us (or TRU for you cool people out there) a lot...you know, for research. There is usually one local on that I frequent, but when I see one on the road, I go in and see what is in stock. In the past three months, I have been to about ten different TRU's (like that?). One thing that they all have in common...very poor customer service.
As a kid, there is no better reward than getting a toy. Every kid, including me, that walks into a Target, Wal-Mart, Canadian Tire, K-Mart, etc. will run to the toy section to pick out a toy. Now, throw in a toy store such as Toys 'R' Us, that kid is in heaven.
Let me first say that bringing a kid along with you while you shop is pure torture for the kid. Kids have a short attention span...ALL KIDS have short attention spans. It is called being a kid, not that attention deficit/ADD crap! You need to purchase a little something to keep the kid quite and occupied on the way home. Hence the term "Shut-Me-Up-Toy", and industry term. It describes a toy that a guardian buys to shut the kid up, usually under five dollars. When you go to a Toys 'R' Us with a kid, expect to purchase an item at least within the fifteen dollar range. Taking a kid to a toy store and not buying anything for him/her is just cruel.
Back to my problem with TRU. Like many mass market stores, there are multiple check out lines. Your average TRU will have ten checkout stations, including at least one in electronics and at least one at customer service. Then why...WHY is there only one register open? I have seen lines with more than five people waiting, and there will be one register open with the slowest cashier on staff. (Oh, K-Mart sucks, too. But that is another post.) You have antsy kids in line with fed up parents...and there is only one line open? Meanwhile, there are other staff...wait, they like to be call "team members", just wandering about. How about you grab a register and get the next guest in line? There are a dozen registers NOT being used.
Seriously, how hard is it to work the register? I have done it, it is easy. The little bar code thingy makes it so damn easy these days. In fact, they make a toy register that you can buy at TRU, if you get to the register. Most of the time you do not even have to make change. Most transactions are made with a credit card. Even if there is cash involved, all you do is punch in some numbers and it does all the math for you. Heck, I bet the four year old in line can playing with the toy register can run the TRU one.
As a kid, there is no better reward than getting a toy. Every kid, including me, that walks into a Target, Wal-Mart, Canadian Tire, K-Mart, etc. will run to the toy section to pick out a toy. Now, throw in a toy store such as Toys 'R' Us, that kid is in heaven.
Let me first say that bringing a kid along with you while you shop is pure torture for the kid. Kids have a short attention span...ALL KIDS have short attention spans. It is called being a kid, not that attention deficit/ADD crap! You need to purchase a little something to keep the kid quite and occupied on the way home. Hence the term "Shut-Me-Up-Toy", and industry term. It describes a toy that a guardian buys to shut the kid up, usually under five dollars. When you go to a Toys 'R' Us with a kid, expect to purchase an item at least within the fifteen dollar range. Taking a kid to a toy store and not buying anything for him/her is just cruel.
Back to my problem with TRU. Like many mass market stores, there are multiple check out lines. Your average TRU will have ten checkout stations, including at least one in electronics and at least one at customer service. Then why...WHY is there only one register open? I have seen lines with more than five people waiting, and there will be one register open with the slowest cashier on staff. (Oh, K-Mart sucks, too. But that is another post.) You have antsy kids in line with fed up parents...and there is only one line open? Meanwhile, there are other staff...wait, they like to be call "team members", just wandering about. How about you grab a register and get the next guest in line? There are a dozen registers NOT being used.
Seriously, how hard is it to work the register? I have done it, it is easy. The little bar code thingy makes it so damn easy these days. In fact, they make a toy register that you can buy at TRU, if you get to the register. Most of the time you do not even have to make change. Most transactions are made with a credit card. Even if there is cash involved, all you do is punch in some numbers and it does all the math for you. Heck, I bet the four year old in line can playing with the toy register can run the TRU one.
18 August 2009
Depeche Mode - Hollywood Bowl, 16 August 2009
After four years, Depeche Mode returns to Southern California to perform in front of another sold out crowd. This time, DM stops at the famous Hollywood Bowl. The show was almost canceled as lead singer Dave Gahan was ordered to rest his vocals by the band's doctor. The two previous shows in San Francisco and San Diego were unfortunately canceled with no rescheduling. Earlier in the tour, with only two shows in the books, the front man had a tumor removed from his gall bladder, resulting in the cancellation of ten shows in Europe. The band also had to cancel their last two European shows, when Dave pulled a muscle in his calf during a performance.
For those of you keeping score, that is fourteen shows canceled in so far. The guys are booked until February of 2010, and have been on tour since May of 2009. Hopefully, they can complete the tour without any other illnesses or injuries.
With a fresh start, Depeche Mode rocked the Hollywood Bowl! They waited until it was dark, then took the stage at around 8:20PM. As usual, the band had visuals, courtesy of Anton Corbijn (via a large LED screen with half-sphere), to accompany the performance. The crowd roared in anticipation, excitement, and relief that the show was not canceled.
DM performed songs from their new album, Sounds of the Universe, while sprinkling in hits from the past from albums such as Playing the Angel, Ultra, Songs of Faith and Devotion, Violator, Music For the Masses, Black Celebration, and Some Great Reward. To my surprise, the band did not play their latest single Peace, nor their up coming single Fragile Tension. Here is the list of songs played that night:
In Chains First song of their new album, only fitting to have it be their first song of the night.
Wrong First single off their new album.
Hole To Feed Song off of Sounds of the Universe, written by Dave Gahan (and Christian Eiger and Andrew Phillpott)
Walking In My Shoes They used the LED half-sphere as an eyeball. Kinda cool and creepy at the same time. This is one of my favourite live songs.
It's No Good The crowd went crazy when this 'oldie' was played.
A Question Of Time Dave got the crowd to sing most of this song...you know, to give his throat a rest.
Precious There was a poem by Hafez being 'typed' while the song was playing. *
Fly On The Windscreen Another great live song. Cameras were on all three band members and projected on the screen. Great use of stage.
Jezebel Martin's turn to do his bit, while Dave takes a break. Song of the new album.
Home This is actually my least favourite DM song. But, it sounds better live.
Come Back Dave 'comes back' with another song he wrote for the new album. He was wearing a scarf around his neck. I assume to protect it from the cold and also to not over stress his vocal cords.
Policy Of Truth The visuals on this one was awesome! Think gumball machine. What does it mean? Beats me, it was just cool!
In Your Room The song started off as if it was acoustic, then the lyrics kicked in. After the first verse, the familiar beat kicked in. Again, awesome!
I Feel You See the four light fixtures? They were doing the snake throughout the whole song, quite impressive.
Enjoy The Silence My favourite song of all time. Video showed Dave, Martin, and Andy in astronaut suits. They would switch places, taking turns in having their heads projected on the big ball. Way cool!
Never Let Me Down Again This song ended the main set list. The highlight when the song is performed live it when Dave gets the crowd to wave their arms. The site of thousands of fans waving is just amazing.
Somebody Martin came out to sing the first song of the first encore. Crowd favourite, I like it, too.
Stripped You know when you hear the engine turning over, that it is time for Stripped. This is one of my favourites, even better live.
Strangelove Another great one from the 80's. The video was great, as well...HOT! So hot, in fact, they had to take another break.
Personal Jesus Second encore, probably Depeche Mode's most famous song. I believe it is still Warner Bros.' best selling 12" single.
Waiting for the Night Last song of the night was a duet with Dave and Martin.
Thanks guys, another great show. This was my sixth Depeche Mode concert, cannot wait for number seven. Dave, and the rest of the band, stay healthy...see you next time!*This is the poem during Precious:
I
Have
Learned
So much from God
That I can no longer
Call
Myself A Christian, a Hindu, a Muslim
A Buddhist, a Jew.
The Truth has shared so much of Itself
With me
That I can no longer call myself
A man, a woman, and angel
Or even pure
Soul.
Love has
Befriended Hafiz so completely
It has turned to ash
And freed
Me
Of every concept and image
My mind has ever known.
13 August 2009
Shrimp Tails
I admit, I am a picky eater. I do not eat meat, expect seafood, not because of moral or health reasons...I just do not like the taste of it. If I see any meat in my food, I will most likely reject it. In restaurants, I have asked them to remake or take it back. If there is little meat chunks, sometimes I will sit there and pick out every-damn-piece of it.
Not sure why every sentence in that paragraph started with a word beginning with "I".
When I am at a restaurant, I try to be civil. I use the utensils, napkin, and exercise table manners. Now, I understand that at a decent eatery, there is an image they are trying to represent. They do not want people running around, wiping their hands/mouth on table cloth (I do that all the time), and they frown upon people using their hands. I am talking about regular restaurants...not those 'fancy' Renaissance places.
So why...why do they leave the tail on shrimp? Many times I have sat there and fish out (like that?) every shrimp in my dish and take out each tail. Yes, using my hands. There is no way to do it with the tools on the table. Believe me, I have tried. Now, my hands are dirty. I wipe my hands on the napkin...now the napkin is dirty. This is why I sometimes use the table cloth.
You may think that it shows that the cook is 'high class'...WRONG! It shows that the cook is lazy in his/her preparation and a food waster. Most people just bite the shrimp off at the tail. This leaves a good inch of shrimp that is wasted.
And, you have a piece of scrap that is on ones plate, like a bone, skin, shell. I like a clean plate at the end of the meal. It shows that you got what you paid for. If you order a pound of meat and you have a quarter pound of bone left...you only really got a three-quarter piece of meat. Scam!
Cooks, please. Take the time to remove the tail on the shrimp. I am paying for the food and service, do your job.
Not sure why every sentence in that paragraph started with a word beginning with "I".
When I am at a restaurant, I try to be civil. I use the utensils, napkin, and exercise table manners. Now, I understand that at a decent eatery, there is an image they are trying to represent. They do not want people running around, wiping their hands/mouth on table cloth (I do that all the time), and they frown upon people using their hands. I am talking about regular restaurants...not those 'fancy' Renaissance places.
So why...why do they leave the tail on shrimp? Many times I have sat there and fish out (like that?) every shrimp in my dish and take out each tail. Yes, using my hands. There is no way to do it with the tools on the table. Believe me, I have tried. Now, my hands are dirty. I wipe my hands on the napkin...now the napkin is dirty. This is why I sometimes use the table cloth.
You may think that it shows that the cook is 'high class'...WRONG! It shows that the cook is lazy in his/her preparation and a food waster. Most people just bite the shrimp off at the tail. This leaves a good inch of shrimp that is wasted.
And, you have a piece of scrap that is on ones plate, like a bone, skin, shell. I like a clean plate at the end of the meal. It shows that you got what you paid for. If you order a pound of meat and you have a quarter pound of bone left...you only really got a three-quarter piece of meat. Scam!
Cooks, please. Take the time to remove the tail on the shrimp. I am paying for the food and service, do your job.
09 August 2009
What happened to "Part I", "Part II", Etc.?
Back to the Future is the best trilogy, ever! If you think otherwise, you are just WRONG!
The key to a successful film franchise is multiple sequels, usually two (hence trilogy). We all know that there are tons of film franchises out there that are awesome and not so awesome.
Now, here is the problem I have with a few recent sequels out there...the title of the film. For someone who wishes to the Batman films, how are they to know which one came first? For example. If I wanted to see the Toy Story films, I would see Toy Story, then Toy Story 2, then Toy Story 3 (when it comes out in June 2010). With Batman, there is Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, Batman & Robin...then Batman Begins, The Dark Knight...oh and Batman (or Batman: The Movie) from 1966.
I love great movie titles like the Harry Potter series. But unless you read the books, you have no idea which book/movie follows which. I 'read' the first four books...on CD.
Then we have crazy franchises that mix numbers (Part 1, Part 2...) with 'creative' titles. Rambo, what is going on here? First Blood, Rambo: First Blood Part II, Rambo III, John Rambo. Meh, what do you really expect?
Well, that is not the real 'problem'. I like the numbering system because it is clean and gets to the point...informative. I like the fancy names because it tries to be a little different (like the Matrix series). I am even okay with the Rambo example...really. The problem lies when they come up with titles the just add or omit the word "THE", and call it a sequel. Not only is this confusing...it is stupid!
Exhibit A: The Fast and The Furious (part 1), 2 Fast 2 Furious (clever use of '2' for part 2), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (part 3, see, fancy name...but it works), Fast and Furious (part 4...but they just took out "the" in the title from part 1, WTF?).
Exhibit B: Final Destination, Final Destination 2, Final Destination 3D (because it was in 3D...most thirds in series take advantage of '3' and make it...the movie and title...3D), The Final Destination. What is it with the fourth film and crappy names?
Oh, and get this...I suggest to someone that we should see Fantastic Four. The response, "did I see the first three?" Wait, there is more...at the end of the second one, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, Silver Surfer is seen, leading one to believe there will be a sequel. The response to that, "is there going to be a Fantastic Five?"
The key to a successful film franchise is multiple sequels, usually two (hence trilogy). We all know that there are tons of film franchises out there that are awesome and not so awesome.
Now, here is the problem I have with a few recent sequels out there...the title of the film. For someone who wishes to the Batman films, how are they to know which one came first? For example. If I wanted to see the Toy Story films, I would see Toy Story, then Toy Story 2, then Toy Story 3 (when it comes out in June 2010). With Batman, there is Batman, Batman Returns, Batman Forever, Batman & Robin...then Batman Begins, The Dark Knight...oh and Batman (or Batman: The Movie) from 1966.
I love great movie titles like the Harry Potter series. But unless you read the books, you have no idea which book/movie follows which. I 'read' the first four books...on CD.
Then we have crazy franchises that mix numbers (Part 1, Part 2...) with 'creative' titles. Rambo, what is going on here? First Blood, Rambo: First Blood Part II, Rambo III, John Rambo. Meh, what do you really expect?
Well, that is not the real 'problem'. I like the numbering system because it is clean and gets to the point...informative. I like the fancy names because it tries to be a little different (like the Matrix series). I am even okay with the Rambo example...really. The problem lies when they come up with titles the just add or omit the word "THE", and call it a sequel. Not only is this confusing...it is stupid!
Exhibit A: The Fast and The Furious (part 1), 2 Fast 2 Furious (clever use of '2' for part 2), The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (part 3, see, fancy name...but it works), Fast and Furious (part 4...but they just took out "the" in the title from part 1, WTF?).
Exhibit B: Final Destination, Final Destination 2, Final Destination 3D (because it was in 3D...most thirds in series take advantage of '3' and make it...the movie and title...3D), The Final Destination. What is it with the fourth film and crappy names?
Oh, and get this...I suggest to someone that we should see Fantastic Four. The response, "did I see the first three?" Wait, there is more...at the end of the second one, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, Silver Surfer is seen, leading one to believe there will be a sequel. The response to that, "is there going to be a Fantastic Five?"
05 August 2009
Going Dutch, Simple Math
This happens to me a lot. Since I usually do not go out to eat, I have not ranted about this in the past. But today, I went out and had lunch with five other people, a total of six of us. That is not the math part.
First of all, let me say that going out to eat is expensive. A sandwich (tuna melt) can set you back $8. Yet, a loaf of bread, pack of cheese, can of tuna, head of lettuce, and anything else you may need to make a tuna melt, will cost you the same $8. And, you still have food left over to make more sandwiches.
Here is a tip that will make paying the bill a lot easier. When you order...remember how much your food and drink is. Example: Tuna melt - $8, Drink $3. Total $11. When it comes time to play, remember that number (11). Then, add about 20% for tax and tip. For my example here, it comes to about $13-14. Hey, you are in a large group and (if) your server was half way decent, give them $15. Very simple.
So many times I have seen people think, "Hmm, I had a sandwich, drink...that is like $10. WRONG!
Now, this is were I get to the point of all this. This happened today. I usually order things that are relatively cheap (remember, I am too cheap to eat out most of the time), and I rarely drink soda...just plain ice water.
Okay, here is the math part. If you are the person doing the "math" for the table, you have to make sure that the total amount of money you collect is enough to cover the tip as well. Everyone else should remember the price of their items and pay accordingly.
The food I order is usually around $10 (including tax and tip). Most people average around $15 (including tax and tip). So, why is it that everyone at the table 'owes' $18? WRONG! I ordered the $10 (including tax and tip) sandwich with no drink. Meanwhile, everyone else orders the fillet mignon with lobster. Really? I have to chip in for that? You DO NOT split the bill evenly when members of the group order different things.
First of all, let me say that going out to eat is expensive. A sandwich (tuna melt) can set you back $8. Yet, a loaf of bread, pack of cheese, can of tuna, head of lettuce, and anything else you may need to make a tuna melt, will cost you the same $8. And, you still have food left over to make more sandwiches.
Here is a tip that will make paying the bill a lot easier. When you order...remember how much your food and drink is. Example: Tuna melt - $8, Drink $3. Total $11. When it comes time to play, remember that number (11). Then, add about 20% for tax and tip. For my example here, it comes to about $13-14. Hey, you are in a large group and (if) your server was half way decent, give them $15. Very simple.
So many times I have seen people think, "Hmm, I had a sandwich, drink...that is like $10. WRONG!
Now, this is were I get to the point of all this. This happened today. I usually order things that are relatively cheap (remember, I am too cheap to eat out most of the time), and I rarely drink soda...just plain ice water.
Okay, here is the math part. If you are the person doing the "math" for the table, you have to make sure that the total amount of money you collect is enough to cover the tip as well. Everyone else should remember the price of their items and pay accordingly.
The food I order is usually around $10 (including tax and tip). Most people average around $15 (including tax and tip). So, why is it that everyone at the table 'owes' $18? WRONG! I ordered the $10 (including tax and tip) sandwich with no drink. Meanwhile, everyone else orders the fillet mignon with lobster. Really? I have to chip in for that? You DO NOT split the bill evenly when members of the group order different things.
03 August 2009
20 July 2009
17 July 2009
Tips From an Asian Driver Part III
Well, it has been a while since the last driving tip. Actually, it has been a long time since my last post in general. I was talking to a friend earlier decided that ranting is a great way to express yourself. What better way to rant than to talk about the driving tip of the day...and when I say "of the day", I mean every damn time you drive.
What to do when there is more than one turning lane. For this lesson I will use the example of making a LEFT turn. I am sure you can figure out how to use these tips for a RIGHT turn. This is the easy kind of left turn...the kind that has a specified turning lanes and signal lights.
Here is the situation. There is are two turning lanes to make a left on to the perpendicular street (remember left turns for this example) with three or more lanes. First of all signal to let others know that you are turning, especially if you are in a lane that allows you to go straight or turn.
Now, here is the tricky part. STAY IN YOUR LANE!!! If you are in the left-hand lane, you take the inside of the turn. When you finish your turn, you should be in the far left lane...start in the far left, end up on the far left. No drifting into other lanes. Really, this is not that hard. Sometimes, they even have dotted lines (occasionally solid lines) to assist you in making your turn. But really, any driver...including Asian drivers such as myself...can make this turn without the lines. There is no reason why you cannot execute this turn.
Now, if you are in the right-hand lane making a left, things change a little. You can take any lane that is SAFE, other than the far left-hand lane (see paragraph above). Again, there may be lines and markers to assist you on this, but you should be able to do this without those lines. Also, watch out for cyclists that maybe making the turn with you, they will take the far right lane.
Too many times, I have seen people in the left-hand turning lane cut across up to five lanes and end up on the far right after the turn, cutting off other drivers. WRONG! You are an idiot! You are a danger to yourself and other drivers. This is not only dangerous, but very annoying. Please follow this simple rules of the road...you know, since it is the law and all...and be careful out there. There are lots of Asian drivers out there. Even worse, there are non-Asian drivers that drive like Asian drivers.
...and please, leave the crappy driving to us Asians.
What to do when there is more than one turning lane. For this lesson I will use the example of making a LEFT turn. I am sure you can figure out how to use these tips for a RIGHT turn. This is the easy kind of left turn...the kind that has a specified turning lanes and signal lights.
Here is the situation. There is are two turning lanes to make a left on to the perpendicular street (remember left turns for this example) with three or more lanes. First of all signal to let others know that you are turning, especially if you are in a lane that allows you to go straight or turn.
Now, here is the tricky part. STAY IN YOUR LANE!!! If you are in the left-hand lane, you take the inside of the turn. When you finish your turn, you should be in the far left lane...start in the far left, end up on the far left. No drifting into other lanes. Really, this is not that hard. Sometimes, they even have dotted lines (occasionally solid lines) to assist you in making your turn. But really, any driver...including Asian drivers such as myself...can make this turn without the lines. There is no reason why you cannot execute this turn.
Now, if you are in the right-hand lane making a left, things change a little. You can take any lane that is SAFE, other than the far left-hand lane (see paragraph above). Again, there may be lines and markers to assist you on this, but you should be able to do this without those lines. Also, watch out for cyclists that maybe making the turn with you, they will take the far right lane.
Too many times, I have seen people in the left-hand turning lane cut across up to five lanes and end up on the far right after the turn, cutting off other drivers. WRONG! You are an idiot! You are a danger to yourself and other drivers. This is not only dangerous, but very annoying. Please follow this simple rules of the road...you know, since it is the law and all...and be careful out there. There are lots of Asian drivers out there. Even worse, there are non-Asian drivers that drive like Asian drivers.
...and please, leave the crappy driving to us Asians.
04 July 2009
10 June 2009
Game 7 to Decide Who Raises the Cup
Pittsburgh Penguins forced a Game 7 when they beat the Detroit Red Wings. The series goes back, and ends in Detroit on Friday. At this point, nothing matters. When you get to a Game 7, the best team wins.
...well, except in 2004, because it should have ended in Game 6...the puck went in.
Unfortunately for the Penguins, the deciding game is in Detroit. Two things work against them: Every game has won at home, they will have to beat the Wings at the Joe Louis Arena. The other thing working against the Pens...they will be playing Detroit.
Would be great to see Marian Hossa on the losing end for the second straight year.
"I'll see you in the school yard for all the marbles, baby. Game 7 on Friday at Detroit" - Mike Lang, Pittsburgh Penguins radio play-by-play guy.
...well, except in 2004, because it should have ended in Game 6...the puck went in.
Unfortunately for the Penguins, the deciding game is in Detroit. Two things work against them: Every game has won at home, they will have to beat the Wings at the Joe Louis Arena. The other thing working against the Pens...they will be playing Detroit.
Would be great to see Marian Hossa on the losing end for the second straight year.
"I'll see you in the school yard for all the marbles, baby. Game 7 on Friday at Detroit" - Mike Lang, Pittsburgh Penguins radio play-by-play guy.
01 June 2009
Titanium Bike
Frame: Lynskey House Blend R320 Titanium Road Frame
Fork: Alpha Q GS-10
Wheels: Mavic Ksyrium SL Superlight Premium
Tires: Vittoria Open Corsa EVO CX 320TPI Road Tire, 700 x 23c
Pedals: Shimano Ultegra SL PD-6620
Crank: Shimano Ultegra SL, 39/53 FC-6601-G (172.5)
Chain: Shimano Ultegra SL CN-6600
Cassette: Shimano Ultegra SL10s, 11-25 CS-6600
Bottom Bracket: Shimano Ultegra SL
Front Derailleur: Shimano Ultegra SL FD-6600-GB
Rear Derailleur: Shimano Ultegra SL RD-6600G-S
Shifters/Brakelevers: Shimano Ultegra SL STL Dual Control ST-6600-G
Brakeset: Shimano Ultegra SL BR-6600-G
Handlebars: Easton EA-70
Stem: Hi-Light Titanium
Headset: Chris King (Pewter)
Saddle: Selle Italia Trans Am
Seat Post: Lynskey Titanium
Bar Tape: Deda
Computer: Garmin Edge 305 with HRM & Cadence Monitor
Lynskey House Blend R320 Road Frame Geometry (Small)
Seat Tube Center Top: 48cm
Actual Top Tube: 49.2cm
Effective Top Tube: 52.5cm
Seat Tube Angle: 74
Head Tube Angle: 72.5
Head Tube Length: 13cm
Chainstay Length: 40.8cm
Wheel Base: 96.5cm
Fork Rake: 4.4cm
Top Tube Slope: 10.3cm
Bottom Bracket Height: 26.7cm
Standover Height: 74.9cm
Front Center: 56.8cm
Frame Weight: 2.4lbs (1089 grams)
Total ride weight: 17.2 pounds (as you see it, without bottles)
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