Jon Baas Blog

"The Muppet Show: Sex and Violence"

2012-03-06T00:29:00.002-06:00

In 1975, a strange half-hour pilot for a variety show aired on ABC. It was titled "The Muppet Show: Sex and Violence", and yes... it featured the lovable Muppets. Although, the demographic was a decidedly older one than we're used to. According to Muppet Wiki, this one-off pilot was a "parody of the proliferation of sex and violence on television". It's an odd show, yet... familiar. And, although it's only an early shadow of what the actual Muppet Show would become... it's strangely entertaining.

I enjoyed it. You might as well.

That said, I've included the entire "Sex and Violence" pilot below, in three installments. Sit back, click play.... and enjoy the pre-Muppet Show, version 1.

-Jon

"Rémi Gaillard’s Elevator Prank"

2012-03-05T23:17:00.000-06:00

I bet this happens to you every day. .... [video]

-Jon

"What Is A Leap Year?"

2012-02-29T01:48:00.002-06:00

Today is February 29. Which means 2012 is a leap year. But what exactly is a leap year? Watch the above video for a complicated, yet thorough explanation. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Dune De Pyla - A New Desert In France"

2012-02-27T15:12:00.002-06:00

There's a new desert growing in the Arcachon Bay in western France. It's the Great Dune of Pyla, and it's the tallest sand dune in Europe. It's about 1,640 ft wide from east to west, and nearly two miles in length from north to south. As is the case with any sand dune, it's moving further and further into the country, gradually covering buildings and roads.

Take a peek at some photos of this impressive moving desert.

-Jon

"Dolly Parton's Other Voice"

2012-02-27T15:01:00.003-06:00

Did you know Dolly Parton has two voices? With a little technical asjustment, she's two amazing singers on one. If you slow down her songs sounds completely different, but her songs are still as pleasant to listen to. At the blog 'Waking Up Now' you can listen to 2 songs -- "9 to 5" and "Jolene" at regular speed. Then, listen to both of them slowed down to a bluesy lament.

My favorite is the hauntingly beautiful show version of "Jolene". Hop on over to the "Waking Up Now" blog and give them a listen. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Happy Birthday Jon!"

2012-02-18T13:44:00.001-06:00

Today I am 32 years old. Time flies when you're having fun!

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2012-02-16T15:14:00.002-06:00

"Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime." - Adlai Stevenson

-Jon

"A Thursday in the Life of Jon Baas"

2012-02-16T00:01:00.037-06:00

I've been a bit lax in my blogging lately (mostly due to other projects), so I thought it might be fun to get back into the swing of things with another live-blog of a "day in the life of Jon Baas". I'll start as soon as I wake up later today, and record my day as it happens (via short time-dated comments).

Whatever happens today (aside from mundane tasks of course), will be recorded right here. Since I have no idea what to expect, the day should prove to be as thrilling for me to experience... as it is fascinating for you to read.

So... with that said, let the fun begin! Bookmark this page, and be sure to check back often. Live-blogging starts -- right here -- sometime around noon!

(All times are in Central Standard Time)

-----------------------------------------------

12:44 PM
I'm up, awake, ready to begin my Thursday. Since I work overnight hours, noon-12:30 PM is generally when my "days" begin. That varies, of course, depending upon any meetings or events I have scheduled. For the most part, though, I seem to be most productive during the morning hours.

1:09 PM
I do a lot of work on Facebook. As a result, I probably know more about the site than the average person. One of the first things I do when my day starts is to catch up on my friends updates, check in on the various pages I maintain, make sure everything is functioning smoothly, maybe leave a comment or two.

Now that that's done. I think it's time for lunch -- "breakfast" in my case. I've caught up on the events of my social world, now it's time to check in with CNN on world events.

Out To Lunch. Be Back Soon.

1:22 PM
Oooh! A "Star Trek: The Next Generation" marathon on the Syfy Channel! Fun stuff! I may have to switch between this and CNN during lunch.

2:02 PM
The situation in Syria makes me ill. Any government that willingly kills it's own citizens in order to preserve it's perverted rule, does not deserve mercy or respect.

2:18 PM
Time to update some websites. Gotta keep things current.

2:56 PM
The sun is out and streaming in my home-office window as I work. According to the local weather status, it's 41F. I wonder if I should take a walk later?

3:22 PM
Pregnant women are quite attractive. I have a few pregnant friends who have been posting photos on Facebook. The mothers-to-be look radiant.

3:51 PM
I just finished the dishes, washed the counters, etc. My wife (Kelli) likes to keep a clean kitchen. I like to make her happy. I'm a good husband, I am.

4:27 PM
I'm heading out to do some grocery shopping with Kelli. I'm hoping to return with some coffee ingredients. I've been craving a nice hot vanilla caramel latte.

5:42 PM
Coffee obtained. We also picked up some hot chicken from the deli, so I'll be enjoying that for dinner shortly. Kelli was hungry. Quick and easy was the way to go.

5:51 PM
I love listening to 80's music. And I like dancing to it. Even when it's playing in the grocery store. The weird looks from my wife are fun too.

7:14 PM
I never drank coffee before I married Kelli. Now, I kinda like the stuff. Especially the steaming mug of Vanilla Caramel Latte I just finished. That's some good quality joe!

7:29 PM
I enjoy receiving packages in the mail. Especially when they contain geeky toys bought off Ebay. Three such packages came today. My inner geek is very happy!

7:37 PM
I'm watching an episode of "Scrubs" with Kelli. It's her favorite; the one titled "My Musical", where a patient observes everyone around her singing. I've never been a big fan of the show, but I have enjoyed an episode here and there. I can definitely see what Kelli enjoys about this one!

9:38 PM
Kelli and I have been watching clips of "Les Miserables" off of Youtube. Mark my words... that musical is going to stand the test of time. It'll be just as beloved fifty years from now.

9:46 PM
Kelli just informed me that she's taking her kindergarten students on a field trip tomorrow -- to something known as "Kinderfest". She described the event to me as this: "Take 150 kindergarteners, give them each 15 pixie sticks... and then try to keep them involved in organized activities." Yeah, I have a feeling my wife will be coming home exhausted tomorrow.

9:59 PM
Kelli has gone off to bed. I kept her company for a little while, now I think I'll go watch Conan for a bit before heading back to work.

11:42 PM
I'm editing a video of some performance footage from a stage show I was in a few years back. It continues to be one of my favorite acting gigs. If all goes well, I think I'll upload it to Youtube sometime tomorrow (Friday), and then post the link on Facebook.

FRIDAY MORNING:

12:18 AM
I'm listening to some musical recordings of the U.S. Naval Choir as I work. At the moment, the hymn "Eternal Father, Strong To Save" is playing. I love their haunting harmony. Truly beautiful.

1:09 AM
Music moves the soul. One of my favorite genre's of music to listen to while I work is that of orchestral film scores. Moving melodies, haunting tunes, determined fight sequences, chase music. No words, just music. Yet, each piece tells a story. It's the kind of music that feeds the imagination. I like that.

1:23 AM
Sometimes, when I'm listening to music and no one's around, I sit back, close my eyes.... and play the air drums. It makes me happy. It probably helps too that I was a drummer in my youth. Sometimes I wish I still was.

2:02 AM
Current project (at this hour): Creating a few more awesome digital set illustrations for the on-going Star Trek fan series that I produce and direct online. The set illustrations -- when published -- will represent the physical locations onboard the starship (upon which the series takes place). And when I say "awesome", I mean that in the very geekiest sense of the word. Sets like this -- for this kind of ship -- don't exist anywhere else online... because I'm the graphic artist creating them.

Check out the Star Trek: Terra Nova series website sometime. You might enjoy the story!

3:21 AM
It's amazing how fast time flies when you're immersed in creative work! After an hour and a half more of general graphics work, I think it's time for a break.

I've been listening to the fantastic score for the television series "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" (as performed by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra). It's a beautiful composition (moving, harmonious, flowing). It makes me want to sit down and watch an episode. Since I usually find something meal-related to eat about this time of morning, I think I'll go pick an episode off Netflix, and enjoy my last "meal" of my "day" while I watch. Be back in a bit.

4:47 AM
It's almost 5 AM on Friday. My "day" has come to a close. I've gotten quite a bit finished today, I've enjoyed my tasty salad and episode of science fiction, it's time to head off to bed. Kelli has a standing request that I not still be up and about when she gets up -- she's not a morning person. So, I hit the sack before she rises.

All-in-all, it's been a good "day"; another one starts in a few hours. Thanks for following along as I've live-blogged. It's been fun! Until next time....

Your happily blogging friend,

-Jon

"10 Most Breathtaking Viewing Platforms"

2012-02-10T22:48:00.005-06:00

I love the beauty of nature. Deep ravines, steep cliffs, tall mountains, powerful waterfalls, serene rivers, quiet meadows. A beautiful vista can make me stop and gaze in sheer wonder!

For those of you that share my fascination with this kind of beauty, here's something you might enjoy. It's a photographic list of the ten most breathtaking viewing platforms from around the world. To stand stand upon one of these overlooks, is to surround yourself with the best scenery the world has to offer. As long as you're not afraid of heights, that is. Take a peek!

-Jon

"Star Trek: Terra Nova - A Star Trek PBeM RPG"

2012-02-08T00:36:00.007-06:00

"Star Trek: Terra Nova" is a fan-produced Star Trek PBeM ("play-by-email") RPG adventure series. It takes place in the year 2378 -- three years after the Dominion War, and is set aboard the Defiant-class USS Terra Nova. It's a small ship; small crew (40 persons). But the adventures are beyond anything you've ever read. It's the series you never knew about; the novel not found in stores.

Come travel to the edge of explored space, to a region known as the Ryalli Sector. Spend some time on the only Federation outpost in the area, Liberty Station (the crashed saucer of a Galaxy-class starship). Meet the local alien races -- most of whom are not humanoid. Learn the history and mythology of the local planets. Discover the secrets of the mysterious Ryalli Expanse -- a place where thoughts become reality. Look around. Explore. Just be sure to avoid the war-mongering Qu-rog.

"Star Trek: Terra Nova" is an intricate story that has been growing in scale since 2001. Over ten years of episodes, plot lines, adventures, and unique characters.

It's one of the best Star Trek stories on the internet, with one of the most extensive and informative websites unmatched by any of it's counterparts. An epic adventure, strong in continuity, and based on creativity and individual character development. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind Star Trek PBeM RPG, then THIS, my friend, is the place to be.

Come join us! Join the crew. Become a character. Read the story.

Series directed by myself, Jon Baas. Professional actor. Professional story-teller.

"...One of the best independent Star Trek stories on the internet!"
- David B.

"Your series has the most comprehensive set of background details that I've ever seen in an RPG."
- Jason A.

"All I can say is... outstanding!"
- Brian C.

Come see what we're all about. Visit our website:
terranova.azorius.net

"Like" us on Facebook:
facebook.com/USSTerraNova

Check out our Youtube channel for more videos:
youtube.com/user/TerraNovaOnline

I'll see YOU.... in the Ryalli!

-Jon

"The Internet 2011 In Numbers"

2012-02-06T02:42:00.001-06:00

So what happened with the Internet in 2011? How many email accounts were there in the world in 2011? How many websites? How much did the most expensive domain name cost? How many photos were hosted on Facebook? How many videos were viewed to YouTube?

Royal Pingdom has got the answers to these questions and many more. Numbers, statistics, data... it's all there. Take a peek, and enjoy!

-Jon

"The Largest Model Railway Of The World"

2012-02-06T02:24:00.001-06:00

Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg, Germany, has the largest model railway in the world, and one of the most successful tourist attractions. On the 1,600 m² large layout, more than a thousand trains, aircrafts, cars and ships move about.

-Jon

"The Dead Cities Of Syria"

2012-02-06T02:13:00.001-06:00

Syria remains in the news as its government continues to use violence while cracking down on protests. It's the latest of many upheavals that the country has been through since its formation as a state. In fact, there are many reminders of past turmoil and upheaval. Over 700 abandoned settlements bear the collective name "The Dead Cities of Syria".

These abandoned municipalities litter the landscape, and contain the remains of a confident, vibrant and sophisticated culture that disappeared over fifteen hundred years ago. Fantastic ancient structures are left behind as a testament to the ingenuity of the people who once lived here.

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2012-02-06T01:59:00.001-06:00

"It has long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sit back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things."
-- Elinor Smith

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2012-01-16T23:39:00.001-06:00

"We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools."
-- Martin Luther King Jr.

-Jon

"Happy Holidays!"

2011-12-28T23:42:00.000-06:00

For those that read this blog, I'm currently visiting family for the Holidays (Christmas and New Years). As a result, my blogging will be a little sporatic until the new year turns over. I wouldn't overlook the likilihood of posts before then; if I have time, I've always got things to write about. Just keep in mind, if things seem slow here... it's because my time with family comes first.

In the meantime, feel free to visit my Facebook page. I have more opportunity to post short updates there, than I do posts of longer length here. Regular blogging will resume here during the first week of January.

Here's hoping all of you are having a wonderful Holiday season as well! Be merry, enjoy some egg nog, share a few laughs with family, all that good stuff.... and I'll see you either on Facebook, or in my next blog post!

Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

-Jon

"The Dream Where Jon Goes To Prison"

2011-12-23T19:30:00.005-06:00

Every morning, for at least the last two weeks, I have awoken remembering my dreams (at least until I forget them later in the day). And for me, they are always extraordinarily realistic, and, ironically, seem to tell coherent believable stories. I always wake up disoriented, and have to readjust from dream to reality. It doesn't strike me as normal. Yet it's peculiar and fascinating.

Thursday night I dreamed a story similar to the movie, "The Shawshank Redemption", except very clearly set in a modern-day prison, and without the prison break. I was found guilty of another man's crime -- a young man with wealth and enough family resources to pin his non-murder activities upon me. The judge and jury sent me to lock-up, and the other man went free. In prison, however, I managed to retain my Jon Baas character -- my personality, my attitudes on life, my optimism -- and I soon became well liked (and respected) by my fellow inmates and guards alike. I even had countless opportunities to witness my Christian faith to those around me.

Every week day, I was allowed out of this facility on "work-release" to pursue employment with an upstanding family who owned a small, yet successful greenhouse/gardening business. I assisted with the many tasks around the business, and then returned to lock-up every night. The family took me under their wing, considered me an "adopted son", made me part of their family activities while I was out (on release). One of their daughters (my age) even took a liking to me, and a simple romance seemed to be brewing (with the father's approval even!). I was a product of bad circumstances, yet I made the most of them.... and ended up affecting the lives of those I came in contact with.

...And then I woke up. The story never finished.

It was an extraordinarily real dream -- as all of my dreams are. Yet also one that makes me think of the blessings given to me, and how even the little things enhance my daily life and the lives of those around me. It was also a dream that could very easily have been a successful Christian-themed movie, or even a film like those you'd see on the Lifetime or Hallmark channels on TV.

I've gotten to the point where I'm actually looking forward to the next night's dream (I rarely have bad dreams, although, when I do, they're just as real). It's like visiting a different world or reality while I sleep.

Maybe I'm odd. Maybe I have a strange sense for things like this. Or, maybe I just have an extraordinarily creative imagination that runs free while I sleep. I don't know. Whatever the case, I seem to have a brain that likes to tell stories. And that never ceases to fascinate me!

-Jon

"Marbles In Your Fence"

2011-12-23T18:45:00.003-06:00

Here's a fun -- and clever -- outdoor decorating idea: embed colorful glass marbles in your fence! It's pretty AND creative! Visit the Garden Drama blog for a photo and more details.

-Jon

"The History of Television"

2011-12-22T02:30:00.002-06:00

Mario, Fafa, and Gorilla, puppets from the Glove and Boots Show (a popular YouTube series) tell the history of television. It's quite entertaining. Take a peek... and enjoy! ... [video]

-Jon

"The Christmas Card - by Terry Gilliam"

2011-12-22T02:07:00.004-06:00

Terry Gilliam (an American-born British screenwriter, film director, animator, actor and member of the Monty Python comedy troupe) made "The Christmas Card" in 1968 for the "Do Not Adjust Your Set" television show. It's a humorous sketch. A lonely old man receives an unusual Christmas card in the mail... You'll have to watch to see what happens next. Enjoy!

-Jon

"How To Lose $2400 In 24 Seconds"

2011-12-21T23:57:00.000-06:00

Kurtis Hough was filming at Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA....

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-12-17T21:48:00.001-06:00

"He that can have Patience, can have what he will."
-- Benjamin Franklin

-Jon

"Ryan Braun Wins NL MVP"

2011-11-23T22:54:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers... Yesterday, he was named the National League's Most Valuable Player in 2011. He batted .332, hit 33 home runs, had 111 RBIs, and stole 33 bases. He also had a chance to overtake Jose Reyes for the batting title on the last day of the season, but ended up finishing a very close second. His 77 extra-base hits were the best in the league.

Braun is also the 2007 NL Rookie of the Year, and a four-time All-Star.

To put things into perspective (for those of you outside Wisconsin), Ryan Braun is to the Milwaukee Brewers what Aaron Rodgers is to the Green Bay Packers.

Braun is the first Brewers player to win the MVP award in the National League, and the first since Robin Yount won in 1989 -- when Milwaukee were still in the AL East.

Congratulations Ryan. This is an award well-deserved!

"Milwaukee's Ryan Braun wins NL MVP"

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-11-23T22:21:00.002-06:00

"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in, forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day, you shall begin it well and serenely..." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson

-Jon

"The Flu Stikes the Baas House"

2011-11-23T21:49:00.001-06:00

For those of you who don't follow me on Facebook, yesterday (Tuesday) was a pretty miserable day. I was sick. My best guess: the 24-hour stomach flu. The good news is, a day and a half later, I'm pretty sure I'm on the mend. Here's hoping, however, that the other people in Brillion -- those who also reported being sick with the flu this week -- are feeling better as well.

Because the flu, no matter how long it lasts, is nowhere near my concept of fun.

UPDATE:
Here's an interesting bit of trivia, and one that makes me very grateful for our present-day ability to better diagnose medical ailments. What I am recovering from, is, most likely, a version of the very same virus that killed U.S. President Zachary Taylor on July 9, 1850. (Source: Wikipedia)

-Jon

"Rosa"

2011-11-17T01:44:00.002-06:00

"Rosa is an epic sci-fi short film that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where all natural life has disappeared. From the destruction, awakes Rosa, a cyborg deployed from the Kernel project, mankind's last attempt to restore the earth's ecosystem. Rosa will soon learn that she is not the only entity that has awakened, and must fight for her survival."

The most interesting thing about this film, though, is that it was made by Jesús Orellana, a Barcelona man who works in the Spanish comic industry. He made this film entirely by himself -- with no budget. He taught himself the art programs necessary, and then spent a year putting it together.

What you see above is the result. It's been played at the Seattle International Film Festival, Screamfest, Toronto After Dark, as well as a few other film events. I think it's quite good. Take a peek and see for yourself.

-Jon

"Bulgaria's Buzludzha Monument"

2011-11-16T23:41:00.010-06:00

image credit
Buzludzha National Park is situated right in the middle of Bulgaria at the heart of its rose growing area. Yet, when one arrives at the Shipka Pass, something unexpected awaits them. It's as if a huge flying saucer landed here, in the Balkan Mountains, and was abandoned by its owners.

But it's not a flying saucer. In reality, it's a once-beautiful, very unusual, 30-year-old monument that was opened in 1981 on the 1300th anniversary of the founding of the state of Bulgaria. It was, however, abruptly abandoned less than twenty years later after the fall of communism in Eastern Europe. It's been left to ruin ever since.

Architecturally, it's a beautiful building -- even in ruins. Take a moment and click on over to the Buzludzha Monument article on Kuriositas to see photos and learn more.

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-11-16T23:06:00.001-06:00

"I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him." -- Abraham Lincoln

-Jon

"Star Trek Deep Space Niners Cap & T-Shirts"

2011-11-14T00:20:00.019-06:00

Deep Space Niners Gear from Jon Baas Designs:

Deep Space Niners Black Baseball Cap	Deep Space Niners Baseball Jersey	Deep Space Niners Jersey Tile Coaster

In the Star Trek universe, baseball as a professional sport had died out long ago. However, by the time of "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine", it was becoming popular again. Colony worlds were playing it. Captain Benjamin Sisko played it on the holodeck with his son, Jake. At one point (in the DS9 episode, "Take Me Out To The Holosuite"), a Vulcan Starfleet ship even challenged Sisko and his crew to a game. The Vulcans called their team the Vulcan Logicians; the crew of DS9 called themselves the Deep Space Niners. It was a fun episode; a fan favorite even!

Since I'm a huge fan of Star Trek AND baseball, it made sense for me to create a line of Deep Space Niners gear for my store. I've recreated the actual DS9ers logo, as seen in the episode, and I've placed it on a replica baseball cap... as well as t-shirts, a jersey, and other unique items (including a decorative pillow, charm necklace, etc). Come take a peek.

All of my Star Trek designs are officially licensed by CBS/Paramount, and available at Jon Baas Designs. Click one of the links above, and grab the coolest baseball cap ever to be seen in the Star Trek universe! Heck, grab a matching jersey to go with it. Might as well complete the outfit, right?

You can see all of my Deep Space Niners gear in my Star Trek section.

Thanks for checking out my designs! I hope you find what you're looking for!

Your happily blogging artist friend,
-Jon

"The 2011 Milwaukee Brewers Replay"

2011-11-12T21:07:00.005-06:00

Last month, the Milwaukee Brewers ended their 2011 season with a bitter loss to the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 6 of the NLCS. They were only two wins away from a World Series appearance. It was a disappointing way to go out, many hearts were broken... but it was a fantastic season getting there. The Crew won the NL Central for the first time in 29 years, they set a franchise record with 96 regular season wins, and fan support couldn’t be any higher.

Sadly, though, all things come to an end. The Cardinals went on to win the World Series, and the Brewers went home to their families. The off-season had begun.

But not all fans relish the lack of baseball after so much excitement. Some wish to look back and ponder the question: What if things had played out differently? With a second chance, and a few changes, could the Brewers have earned a spot in the World Series? Could 2011 have been an even better season?

Enter the Milwaukee Brewers Replay.

But first, a little backstory...

As many of you already know, I'm a hard-core, life-long Brewers fan. I grew up following the team through the '80's, the '90's, and the present. I went to games and events at the old County Stadium with my dad. I filmed a movie at the new Miller Park. I collected Brewers baseball cards. I obtained player autographs. And I simulated dozens of fictional baseball seasons through statistical board games, computer games and the like. My father and I would sit down, and simulate match-ups together using our favorite game, Strat-O-Matic Baseball. I loved that game. It provided hours and hours of "What If..." fun.

I've grown older now, my father and I live in different states, but I still enjoy a good solitary "What If..." baseball simulation every now and then. Only, these days, I do so with the help of Baseball Mogul.

After the great season we witnessed in 2011, I thought it might be interesting to take that “What If..” approach, and, with the help of Baseball Mogul, replay the entire 2011 season. I thought I’d take it one step further, though, and incorporate the input of fellow Brewers fans, like myself, who wanted to help me manage the team. To that end, I set up a social Facebook page, and I’m posting the Replay line-ups, statistics, and game results there on a daily basis. Anyone who “likes” the page, is welcome to help me determine the everyday team moves. Moves like: Who should be in the line-up? Who gets sent down to the minors? Who replaces an injured player? Things like that. It’s a joint effort. An online collaboration between dedicated Brewer fans.

To remain as realistic as possible, I've confined my simulation to the same trades, contracts, schedule and ownership decisions as in real life. However, the roster moves, line-ups, injuries, and everything else on-field will play out differently – as if the 2011 Brewers had a second chance at greatness.

It’s a fascinating idea. A social experiment. And, quite possibly, the first time something like this has ever been done on Facebook.

If you're interested in this kind of thing; if you want to follow along with the stats and standings; if you'd like to help me manage this Replay version of the 2011 Milwaukee Brewers, I encourage you to come check out the project's Facebook page. Click "Like" and help me/us manage the team to the World Series the team narrowly missed in real life. I'll be simulating things all the way through the off-season, so there's plenty of opportunities to be involved.

It'll be fun project! It's one of the best seasons of Brewers baseball, replayed collaboratively during the off-season. What's not to like!?

Come join us! Stats and standings are updated daily.

I'll see you there!

LINK: 2011 Milwaukee Brewers Replay

UPDATE:
Head on over to BrewCrewBall.com for a recap of the month of April in the Milwaukee Brewers Replay. I'll be guest posting over there throughout the real-life off-season, and sharing updates on how the re-played season is going. Check it out!

-Jon

"Some Gave All"

2011-11-11T23:11:00.005-06:00

Today, we honor our military veterans -- those who are with us, and those who have fallen.

Today, I honor my four younger siblings:

- Rebecca Medendorp, U.S. Air Force -- (active)
- Lydia Baas, U.S. Navy - (active)
- Joel Baas, U.S. Marine - (active)
- Benjamin Baas, U.S. Marine - (retired)

"All gave some. Some gave all."

UPDATE:
And for those who wonder why our veterans serve: I Fought For You ... [video]

-Jon

"Brushless Paintings By Amy Shackleton"

2011-11-09T00:47:00.004-06:00

Amy Shackleton doesn't use brushes to paint her pictures. Instead, she applies wet paint to a canvas and then elevates and turns it so that the paint runs in the direction that she wants. After many carefully staged pourings over one or two weeks, she ends up with an extraordinarily brilliant, surprisingly coherent image. Her technique seems to work well for nighttime scenes. You can view more images and a time-lapse video of Shackleton at work at the link.

You can view a fantastic photo collection of some of her paintings, as well as a video of her in action (at the bottom of the linked page). Take a peek at her unique creativity, and enjoy!

Extraordinary Brush-Less Paintings by Amy Shackleton.

-Jon

"Greek Contributions To World Culture"

2011-11-08T23:29:00.001-06:00

Lately, with all the bad economic news coming out of Greece, it's easy to look at the Mediterranean country and see the irresponsible borrowing, the overgenerous retirement benefits, and the employment problems and reluctance to pay taxes that have led to the current economic crisis in Europe. It's a nightmare over there; the socialist economy is in shambles.

But despite all the bad news, there's a lot more to Greece than we often realize. They've had a HUGE impact upon the progression and advancement of every nation on the globe. Here is a list of some of the things Greece is credited with inventing... that we take for granted in our everyday lives:

- The Modern Olympics
- Trial by Jury
- Theater
- Democracy
- The Shower
- Analog Computers
- Pizza
- Mathematics
- The Catapult and Crossbow
- The Steam Engine

Take a few moments, and read more about these inventions at Kuriositas.com:
What Have the Greeks Ever Done for Us?

-Jon

"Stop-Motion Music Video Made with Jelly Beans"

2011-11-08T01:37:00.001-06:00

Jelly Bean art at it's best! This video took a crew of 30 people 1,357 hours to move 288,000 jelly beans and produce this cute animated music video for "In Your Arms" by Kina Grannis. You've probably never seen anything like it. Give it a watch, and enjoy!

-Jon

"Live From Lady Liberty"

2011-11-07T23:37:00.002-06:00

Did you know... there are actually live webcams located within the flame of the Statue of Liberty? Yep. INSIDE the torch. Four torch cams were installed and turned on in celebration of Lady Liberty's 125th birthday on October 28, 2011. They provide live views of Ellis and Governors Islands, Liberty Island and the Freedom Tower. Take a peek!

-Jon

"The Power of a Press Release"

2011-11-07T23:06:00.002-06:00

As some of you may know, I'm a big fan of Conan O'Brien, the late-night talk-show host on TBS. I enjoy his show, and last week, he filmed it in New York City (his studio is in Los Angeles). One of the big things they were planning to do while in the Big Apple, was host a same-sex wedding, on the stage, during one of the episodes.

Now, I won't get into the politics of the event, that's not my point in write about it here. What I did find interesting, was how the event was covered in the media. Quite often, we don't realize just how much our favorite television news program depends upon someone else to write their scrips and news copy. Point of fact, broadcast news is rarely ever original.

Here's a humorous compilation to prove my point. It's a segment from one of those Conan O'Brien shows last week -- before the wedding. Watch for the news clips as the TV broadcasters put their own unique spin on this breaking news for their viewers. Enjoy! ... [video]

-Jon

"Cold Over; Blogging Resumes"

2011-11-07T04:23:00.003-06:00

I am hereby declaring victory over the nasty cold that took me out this past week. Blogging was on hold -- as previously mentioned -- because I just didn't have the motivation to write anything. It's Monday now, and a new week begins, so I figure it's time to get back into the habit of posting again. If you've got anything you'd like me to write about, let me know. Otherwise.... it's blogging as usual!

Have a great Monday all! Until later today,

Your happily back-to-blogging friend,
-Jon

"The 17 Best Invisible Cat Pictures"

2011-11-02T23:44:00.001-05:00

I like cats. Cats make me laugh. Especially these cats.

-Jon

"Jon Baas Has A Cold"

2011-11-02T00:39:00.003-05:00

I just thought I'd drop a quick note to let you know that I am currently enduring a particularly nasty cold that has taken away most of my motivation to be creative -- which, sadly, includes blogging, writing, reading blogs, etc. I've had this under-the-weather status since Saturday, and it's really been kicking my butt. I'll be back to blogging again soon, though. In the meantime, come on over to my Facebook page. Posts from there don't take as much effort, and you can still stay up-to-date.

I hope none of you are sick. 'Tis the season, sure, but I wouldn't wish this kind of miserable-ness on anyone, even those I don't get along with.

Hang in there. I'll be back soon.

Here's hoping your day is a great one!

Your happily blogging, not-so-healthy-feeling friend,
-Jon

"St. Louis Cardinals Win The World Series"

2011-10-29T01:56:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to the St. Louis Cardinals for their 11th World Series title. I didn't root for you -- my loyalties remain with the rival Milwaukee Brewers. But I will concede, you had a fantastic post-season! Definitely a joy to watch. Well played. Enjoy the trophy, and we'll see you in 2012.

"Cards win World Series, beat Texas 6-2 in Game 7"

-Jon

"Halloween Light Show 2011"

2011-10-25T23:46:00.004-05:00

I've seen spectacular Christmas light shows, but this one's for Halloween. It's set up to correspond with the song, "Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO, and features animated pumpkin faces that sing along. It also contains tombstones, hand-carved pumpkins, strobes, floods, and thousands of lights. It makes me wonder what these people are going to do with their house for Christmas!

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-10-21T23:33:00.000-05:00

"It always seems impossible until its done."
-- Nelson Mandela

-Jon

"CSI: Legoland - 'Lover's Lost'"

2011-10-21T13:49:00.002-05:00

Here's something fun. It's a LEGO spoof on the TV series "CSI: Miami" (starring David Caruso), complete with bad puns, and plastic gore. I found it entertaining, so I thought I'd share. Enjoy!

-Jon

"A 300-Piece Chocolate Bikini"

2011-10-21T13:23:00.005-05:00

Former Miss France, Cindy Fabre, wore this chocolate bikini as part of the 'Salon du Chocolat", a yearly trade show for the international chocolate industry, held this year in Aix en Provence, France. It was designed by Benjamin Brass and constructed by Puyricard, an artisan chocolate company.

The entire outfit consisted of more than 300 pieces of chocolate carefully sculpted together in a gladiator-style bikini, including chocolate truffles, chocolate hearts and caramel filled chocolate bites. Even her shoes were covered in chocolate.

Fabre accessorized with a huge chocolate bangle and some brown feathers in her hair. She posed with a selection of metal bowls and whisks that are typical of those used to make chocolate treats.

I'm not really big into the fashion scene, but I've gotta admit, this is one of the more appealing outfits I've seen made out of food. Impractical, yes, but nonetheless striking! Would you wear something like this?

PHOTOS: See more of this tasty bikini.

-Jon

"The Interactive Crappy Piano"

2011-10-21T12:48:00.004-05:00

I'll be honest, I had fun playing around with this. It's an interactive, online, crappy piano. Literally. Go play it for a bit, and you'll see why. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Milwaukee Brewers: The End of a Season"

2011-10-17T14:41:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, it came to an end. The St. Louis Cardinals beat the Milwaukee Brewers in game six of the NLCS. The Cardinals move on to the World Series; the Brewers go home.

It's a bittersweet loss. Milwaukee has not had a team play in the World Series since 1982. Ironically, it was the Cardinals that beat them back then too.

This year, the Cardinals just outclassed the Crew. They played well, they got more runs over the plate, everything was clicking. In the end, they closed it out with a 12-6 victory. I would've liked to see the Brewers win, and the NLCS go on to a game seven. I could've handled a loss in seve; this just seems so premature, so sudden. But, it is what it is.

Congratulations to the St. Louis Cardinals. Best of luck in the big Series. Play well, keep up the winning ways. Do your fans proud. I, however, am going to have to root for the Texas Rangers. You've played in 18 World Series, and won ten of them. The Rangers have played in one (last year), and lost. I've gotta side with the underdog.

In five and a half months, the Milwaukee Brewers will try for the championship all over again. Their first game of the season will be on Friday, April 6, 2012 at Miller Park. Their opponent: The St. Louis Cardinals. You can bet THAT series will be sold out!

So... here's to the Brewers. You had a fantastic season! You made it into the post-season, and were eliminated only two wins shy of the World Series. It was a spectacular run! Entertaining. Thrilling! Dramatic. Come back and do this again next year... and we'll be supporting you.

Why?

Because Brewer fans ~~want~~ crave a World Championship! We've never had one. There's a deep hunger. 42 years is a long time to wait!

"Pujols, Cardinals take wild ride to World Series"

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-10-14T02:09:00.003-05:00

"We don’t judge here, man. I think we’re all a little bit crazy. I think you have to be kind of crazy if you want to be really good at something."
-- Prince Fielder (baseball player -- talking about teammate, Nyjer Morgan)

-Jon

"Rap Tribute to Joss Whedon's Firefly"

2011-10-11T20:52:00.003-05:00

Those that know me, know that I'm a big Sci-Fi geek. I love Star Trek. I time travel. I love the vast wonders of space. But I also love Joss Whedon's "Firefly". It is, in my opinion, the best science fiction television series ever produced.

Unfortunately, "Firefly" didn't last too long. FOX in it's infinite lack of wisdom, canceled the show after one season. They didn't think it had potential. Yet, here we are years later, and the series is still receiving high praise and developing a huge fan following.

One of the neat things about the cult fandom of "Firefly", is the steady stream of unofficial content being released. Fans write songs, produce video tributes, write stories, release artwork, perform skits... the list goes on. One of the latest items to be released, is a full-length nerdcore rap album titled "The Browncoats Mixtape".

It's produced by Adam WarRock, a former attorney and now the internet's foremost "comic book rapper". The album features samples from both the TV show and the follow-up film "Serenity", and is devoted to the crew of the starship Serenity.

Here's one of the singles off the Mixtape titled "Mal". It focuses entirely upon the popular character of Captain Malcolm Reynolds, played by the ever-cool Nathan Fillion. I'm not a big rap fan myself, but this song I like. It's catchy; a great tribute. Give it a listen, and enjoy!

LINK: "Mal", from the Browncoats Mix Tape

-Jon

"Milwaukee Brewers Beast Mode T-Shirt"

2011-10-11T11:20:00.006-05:00

As a professional artist, I've put together a t-shirt design in honor of this season's Milwaukee Brewers baseball team, and their popular "beast mode" celebration. I've also given the players a new nickname: "The Beasts of Brewtober".

So far, fans are already wearing these t-shirts; you might even see one at the ballpark. Or, a friend might be wearing one around town. Either way, they're out there.

To promote the design, and to encourage more people to wear these t-shirts, I've decided to give one away for free. Anyone who supports the team, the celebration, or just wants a free t-shirt designed by yours truly is welcome to participate. In order to qualify, all I ask is that you leave a comment on this blog post, and tell me why YOU want to win this t-shirt. At midnight tonight (October 12, 2011 - CST), I will select one of the blog comments, and that person will be sent a brand new free t-shirt from my store. No purchase necessary.

Simple as that. Leave a comment below, and a t-shirt like the one pictured above could be yours (be sure to include an email or facebook link so I can contact you for your address and size if you win!). If you'd like to see the other shirts available with this design, feel free to visit the design page in my store:

LINK: "Beasts of Brewtober" t-shirts

There you have it. A free t-shirt. Good luck, and happy commenting!

-Jon

"Simon's Cat in 'Double Trouble'"

2011-10-11T01:08:00.003-05:00

Simon Tofield has released another one of his "Simon’s Cat" videos. I enjoyed it, and thought I'd share it here for all my cat owner-readers. In this short film, Simon's cat teaches a kitten the way of things. But it's not all that simple, as anyone with more than one cat already knows. Enjoy!

Or... view larger.

And, take a moment to check out Simon's other "Simon's Cat" videos.

-Jon

"BOB"

2011-10-10T22:48:00.004-05:00

Here's a cute animated short film by Jacob Frey and his fellow students at the Filmakademie Baden-Wuerttemberg. It's about a determined hamster that... well, you'll just have to watch and see.

Keep watching after the credits, that's the best part! Enjoy!

-Jon

"Braves Win The World Series"

2011-10-10T22:33:00.005-05:00

Fifty-four years ago today, on October 10, 1957, the Milwaukee Braves won the World Series after shutting out the New York Yankees 5-0 at Yankee Stadium. Lew Burdette got the win, and was later named the Series MVP. During the series, he pitched three complete games and two shutouts. This made him the first pitcher since Christy Mathewson in 1905 to pitch two shutouts in a World Series.

1957 was the ONLY year Milwaukee has gone to the World Series.

Learn more about the 1957 Braves' World Series at Wikipedia.

-Jon

"Brewers vs. Cardinals in NLCS"

2011-10-07T23:16:00.003-05:00

Tonight, by a nail-biting score of 3-2, the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks in the fifth game of the 2011 NLDS series. In the bottom of the 10th inning, fan favorite Nyger Morgan hit a single into center field, Carlos Gomez scored from second base, and the Brewers earned the decisive third win to send them to the National League Championship Series.

The St. Louis Cardinals beat the Philadelphia Phillies in their final game later in the evening, and, as a result, the Brewers and Cardinals -- the two best teams in the National League -- will square off for the chance at a World Series appearance. The first game in the best-of-seven NLCS series takes place on Sunday afternoon, 3pm (CST) on TBS.

During the regular season(s), the upstart Brewers and tradition-bound Cardinals are rivals in the National League central division. Neither team is particularly fond of the other. As a result, this should prove to be an exciting high-profile match-up!

For those that don't know Brewers history, this is the first time in 29 years that the Milwaukee Brewers have won a Playoff series. The last time they made it this far was in 1982. They were in the American League at the time, and beat the California Angels in that year's ALCS match-up. That sent them to the World Series where, ironically, they played the St. Louis Cardinals... and lost.

1982 was the the only time the Brewers advanced in the Playoffs... and the only time they appeared in the World Series.

So, as you can imagine, Brewers fans are overjoyed. And they have every right to be. A season like this has only came around once in the entire 41 years of the Milwaukee Brewers. ONCE. 1982. This time around, the Brewers look to change their fortunes.

Back in 1982, I was only 2-years-old. I had no idea what baseball was at the time. I grew up in Southeastern Wisconsin. I was a Brewers fan since I knew what the sport was. I've come to appreciate the 1982 season through the accounts in history books, but never in my life have I had the opportunity to experience my home team -- the team I follow with a passion -- make it this far into the Post-season. It's exciting, and surreal; to say the least.

Yes, this is a big year for the Brewers, the city of Milwaukee and the state of Wisconsin. They'll be playing 4-7 games against the St. Louis Cardinals... and I'll be watching. You bet I'll be watching! Naturally, I would love to see my Brewers have another shot at the World Series. But whatever happens, win or lose, this will have been one of the greatest seasons in franchise history. And that alone is something I will treasure -- and appreciate -- for the rest of my life.

Here's to the Brewers. Play well. Win for the fans. Because, for the first time in 29 years, the whole country is watching. It's been a long wait. Time to shine!

"Morgan lifts Brewers past D-backs in 10, into NLCS"

"Old-school Cards meet newbie Brewers in NLCS"

VIDEO: Morgan's single sends Brewers to NLCS

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-10-05T23:17:00.000-05:00

"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."
-- Steve Jobs (at Stanford's Commencement Address in 2005)

-Jon

"Steve Jobs: 1955-2011"

2011-10-05T21:56:00.001-05:00

Today, Steve Jobs, American computer entrepreneur, inventor, and technology icon, has died after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 56.

"Apple's visionary Steve Jobs dead at 56"

-Jon

"Milwaukee Brewers - The Beasts of Brewtober"

2011-10-04T22:35:00.012-05:00

Back in 1982, the Milwaukee Brewers were the winners of the MLB American League pennant. They gained the nickname, "Harvey's Wallbangers" because of their fantastic hitting power under mid-season manager Harvey Kuenn. This year, in 2011 and the Playoffs, the team has taken to what has affectionately been called, "Beast Mode".

First-baseman, Prince Fielder compares it to the popular kid's movie, "Monsters Inc." Two actions are required to enter the team's beast mode: First of all, you must make a great play. Second, you raise both hands, preferably above your head, pose your fingers like an attacking wild animal, and then roar.

It's become an iconic gesture associated with this season's winning Brewers. As I understand it, boisterous outfielder Nyjer Morgan was the first person to call the celebration "beast mode" while being interviewed on the subject by the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinal.

Of course, criticism of this celebratory gesture will always abound. The Brewers don't want to appear as though they're showing up the other team -- like when they got backlash in 2008 for Prince Fielder's home run celebration while playing the San Francisco Giants. Fielder crossed home plate, and then pretended to be the atom bomb while the rest of the Brewers were the fake town in the desert obliterated during nuclear testing. ... See Photo

It was a genius move, but very easily mistaken for rubbing it in the opposing team's face. "Beast Mode", while similar, is much more low-key. But just as genius.

Left-fielder, Ryan Braun explained the whole thing this way:

"We have a lot of fun. The 'beast mode' thing is something that we do for each other to kind of get fired up whenever something positive happens. And I think it's kind of taken on a life of its own. But it's something that we all enjoy doing."

And, ironically, it sums up the 2011 Milwaukee Brewers as they compete into the Post Season. So, I thought it might be interesting to combine the term "Brewtober", a popular term to celebrate the Brewers' rare appearance in the Playoffs, with the whole "beast mode" mentality. To that end, I've put together a video to commemorate the Brewers' successful season, and I shall hereby take a nod from the 1982 "Harvey's Wallbangers", and refer to the 2011 Brewers as "The Beasts of Brewtober".

Will the phrase catch on? I don't know. But it does have a certain ring to it.

Give the video a watch, and enjoy!

T-SHIRT UPDATE:
And, since I'm a designer/artist by trade, I ran with my inspiration, and created a special t-shirt design to go with the "Beasts of Brewtober" theme. If you're a fan of the Brewer's "Beast Mode" as they make their way through the Playoffs, you may find these new shirts appealing. Take a peek:

"Beasts of Brewtober" t-shirts by Jon Baas Designs

NEW VIDEO UPDATE:
The above video is the updated NLCS version of the original "Beasts of Brewtober" video. This version includes photos from the Playoffs, as well as the historic NLDS game 5 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on October 7, 2011. The original video (seen here) was created in honor of the team's NL Central division title back in September.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Milwaukee's 'Beast' a hit with players and fans"

"'Beast mode' goes national"

-Jon

"Wanna Live Forever? Become A Noun"

2011-10-02T00:19:00.002-05:00

Do you want to live forever? You can... by turning your name into a noun. The French doctor Joseph-Ignace Guillotin envisioned the guillotine. James Brudenell, the 7th Earl of Cardigan, is known for his now famous sweaters. Jules Léotard lives on in common dancewear. Yep. That's how it's done. You’ve got to become an object, immortalized forever in the dictionary.

Here's a catchy tune to explain how it works. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Netflix Adds Star Trek DS9 & Animated Series"

2011-10-01T23:13:00.000-05:00

As previously mentioned, today Netflix added "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" to its online video streaming service. DS9 joins the other live action Star Trek series ("Star Trek: The Next Generation", "Star Trek Voyager", and "Star Trek Enterprise") which were added in July. Each episode streams commercial-free.

In addition, "Star Trek: The Animated Series" has been added as well. As a result, Netflix now offers the entire Star Trek TV library through it's online offering.

You can watch all of these streaming Star Trek episodes with a computer or a Netflix-ready TV, XBox360, PS3, Wii, mobile device or other Netflix-ready device. All streaming video on Netflix is shown commercial free. Streaming-only subscriptions to Netflix cost $7.99/month.

-Jon

"Brewers vs. Diamondbacks in NLDS"

2011-09-29T22:31:00.004-05:00

For those who follow my Milwaukee Brewers postings, here's a quick update. After last night -- one of the craziest nights in baseball history, the Wild-Card teams in the MLB have been decided. In the National League, the Atlanta Braves finished off their historic collapse with an extra-inning loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, and the St. Louis Cardinals trounced the Houston Astros. Since both the Braves and Cardinals were tied going into last night's games, the Cardinals come out on top as the NL Wild-Card.

And, since the Cardinals are the NL Wild-Card, that means the Milwaukee Brewers will be playing the NL West division champs, Arizona Diamondbacks, in the first round of the Playoffs. The match-up begins on Saturday at 1:07pm (CST) in Milwaukee. It'll be televised live on TBS.

It'll be a best-of-five series. The first team to win three games moves on to play the winner of the Phillies/Cardinals match-up. The winner of the second round match-up goes on to the World Series, where they'll play the top American League team. I'm rooting for the Brewers to go all the way! Of course, anything goes in the post-season; that's what makes October and the MLB so exciting!

This is the fourth time in 42 years that the Milwaukee Brewers have made it into the Playoffs, and only the third time they've won their division to get there (they won the AL East in 1981 and 1982; NL Wild-Card in 2008). So, for those not from Wisconsin, it's a pretty big deal around here!

The Green Bay Packers won the NFL Super Bowl this past winter. Can the Milwaukee Brewers win the MLB World Series this Fall? Stick around. We'll find out.

"Brewers’ big moves pay off with playoffs"

-Jon

"The Imperial March by Two Floppy Disk Drives"

2011-09-29T22:06:00.003-05:00

This is the ultimate in geek: The famous John Williams "Imperial March" from Star Wars... played on two floppy disk drives. It's been done before, but this is perhaps the best rendition I've ever heard. And for those who are curious, the sound comes from a magnetic head moved by a stepper motor. To make a specific sound, the head must be moved with appropriate frequency.

The sound is not a music file; it's created on the hardware itself. Brilliant!

UPDATE:
Here's the original "Imperial March" composition for comparison.

-Jon

"The Beauty of LEGO"

2011-09-29T21:01:00.003-05:00

I love LEGO. It was my favorite toy as a kid, and even now, in my early 30's, it still fascinates me. The creativity that can come from just a few colored plastic bricks is amazing. A couple thousand of them... downright mind-blowing!

Perhaps that's why The Brothers Brick site is such a fun place to visit! Take a peek at the many wonderful creations of LEGO builders from around the world! Enjoy!

-Jon

"Star Trek: The Next Generation Remastered"

2011-09-29T20:28:00.002-05:00

While it was rumored for some time, yesterday, CBS made it official. They will be remastering (in HD) all 178 episodes of the iconic "Star Trek: The Next Generation" television series. Each episode will be re-scanned from the original film elements and visual effects elements will be re-composited for mastering into Blue-ray, syndicated release on television, as well as digital distribution via Netflix and other online rental services.

The project is being released just in time for the 25th anniversary of the series in 2012. A sampler featuring four of the episodes will be released on January 31, 2012, with all seven seasons to follow. If you're interested, here are the details on the TNG Remastered project, as well as the promo video... courtesy of TrekCore.com. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Thread Paintings by Cayce Zavaglia"

2011-09-28T02:33:00.003-05:00

Cayce Zavaglia is the kind of artist I love to feature on this blog. She's found a way to turn something usual and commonplace, into something unique and extraordinary. Using simple crewel embroidery wool, and techniques borrowed from the worlds of drawing and painting, she creates like-like portraits that look a lot like oil paintings!

She created a system of sewing colored threads in a sequence that gave the illusion of a certain color or tone. The direction in which the threads were sewn mimics the way lines are layered in a drawing or painting, and, as a result, gives the portraits depth, volume, and form. Over time the stitches have become tighter and more complex, presenting the image of flesh, hair, and cloth.

Take a moment and explore Cayce's artwork on her website!

-Jon

"Table 7"

2011-09-27T23:48:00.000-05:00

A couple is having an intimate conversation in a restaurant, unaware that their every word is being closely monitored. However, not all is as it seems. A short film by Marko Slavnic. Enjoy!

"Quote of the Day"

2011-09-27T23:34:00.001-05:00

"Most people would succeed in small things if they were not troubled with great ambitions."
-- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

-Jon

"The Ruins Of Bannerman's Island"

2011-09-26T01:55:00.002-05:00

Did you know, there are the ruins of a castle sitting empty upon Pollepel Island (on the Hudson River) -- only 50 miles north of New York City? At first glance, you might think the abandoned and decaying remnants are located in Europe... or somewhere in Ireland; the architecture is very unique. But no... it's definitely on American soil.

It's called Bannerman's Castle, and while it looks like the ruins of a castle, it's actually an old abandoned military surplus warehouse, built in the early 1900's by wealthy Scottish immigrant, Francis Bannerman VI. Here are some photos of old Bannerman's Castle, as well as the history surrounding it's abandonment. It's a fascinating story, and one most American's probably know nothing about. Take a peek... and enjoy!

-Jon

"Playoff Fever 2011: NL Central Champions!"

2011-09-23T23:18:00.006-05:00

The Milwaukee Brewers have done it! They're going to the Playoffs!

On Thursday, the New York Mets defeated the St. Louis Cardinals, dropping the Brewers magic number to clinch the NL Central to 2 games. Today, with one epic swing of the bat, Ryan Braun's three-run Miller Park homerun -- in the bottom of the 8th inning -- launched the Crew to a 4-1 win over the Florida Marlins. Half an hour later, the Cubs beat the Cardinals, and Milwaukee earned it's title!

The last time the Brewers earned a division title was in 1982 -- 29 years ago. They made it into the Playoffs in 2008, but as the NL Wild-Card. This time, they're going in as champions!

The Brewers still have five more games to play in the regular season. They may not be fighting for a Playoff spot anymore, but they still have another goal to reach. They need to end the season with more wins than the eventual NL Wild-Card team (either the Atlanta Braves or St. Louis Cardinals) as well as the NL West champions, the Arizona Diamondbacks. If they do, they will avoid having to play the NL best Philadelphia Phillies in the first round of the Playoffs. Back in 2008, it was the Phillies who defeated the Brewers in the first round, and then went on to win the World Series.

The most likely first-round match-up this season will be the Brewers vs. the Braves -- a battle of the Milwaukee teams. The Atlanta Braves used to play in Milwaukee in the 1950's and '60's. They are the only team to win a World Series in the Brew City (1957). The Braves may be a Southern team now, but there's still a history here in Wisconsin. Put the two teams together in the Playoffs, and it could be a very interesting series.

So, here's to the Brewers in October. May their playoff fortunes be as dramatic as their season. And may Wisconsin end the year with yet another world champion!

"Braun’s homer gives Brewers NL Central crown"

VIDEO: Ryan Braun's 8th inning homerun

VIDEO: Brewers talk about winning NL Central

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-09-22T03:28:00.001-05:00

"Any change, even a change for the better, is always accompanied by drawbacks and discomforts."
-- Arnold Bennett

-Jon

"Playoff Fever 2011: Down to the Wire"

2011-09-22T00:25:00.002-05:00

Two more games have been added to the books. The Brewers won and lost against the Cubs in Chicago, while the Cardinals won both of their games against the New York Mets. As a result, Milwaukee loses another game in their lead over the NL Central. With six games left in the regular season, their magic number to win the division remains at 3.

Here's where things stand after Wednesday's games:

National League Central Division:

Team Name ............... W - L ..... GB

Milwaukee Brewers .... 91 - 65 .... --- .... (6 games left)
St. Louis Cardinals ..... 86 - 69 ... 4.5 ... (7 games left)

The Brewers "Magic Number": -- 3

The magic number represents the combination of wins by the leading team and losses by the second-place team that would clinch the division title.

Today's game: The Brewers have the day off; Cardinals play the Mets.

If the Cardinals lose today, the Brewers' magic number drops to "2". If the Brewers win their Friday game against the Florida Marlins, and the Cardinals lose against the Cubs, Milwaukee will win the division and move on to the Playoffs. A day off, and then the final stretch. Here's hoping!

"Garza pitches 6-hitter, Cubs stall Brewers"

-Jon

"Pretty Girls and Chalk Dust"

2011-09-21T21:59:00.002-05:00

This video caught my eye. It's a promotional spot for Australia's biggest music festival, Summadayze, but it incorporates color in a way we don't often think about. Take a few pretty girls, film them in slow motion, toss in hand-fulls of brightly-colored chalk dust, and you have yourself a cleverly artistic, high-energy short film.

And one that's oddly fun to watch too! So, sit back... and enjoy!

-Jon

"If Computer Problems Were Real"

2011-09-21T19:51:00.000-05:00

In this day and age, we use a lot of metaphors to represent the world of computers. Here's a humorous video that translates those into real-life problems. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Playoff Fever 2011: Two Wins to Clinch"

2011-09-20T12:43:00.004-05:00

The Brewers lost to the Cubs last night, while the Cardinals beat the Phillies. This drops the Brewers lead in the NL Central to 5.5 games, and leaves their magic number to clinch the division at 4 games. If you do the math, this means the Brewers cannot clinch until tomorrow (vs. the Cubs, in Chicago). For this to happen, they will need to win their next two games, while the Cardinals need to lose those two.

I doubt this will happen. Instead, I predict the Brewers will be celebrating their first division title in 29 years on Friday -- with a win over the Florida Marlins in Milwaukee. Better at home than away, right?

Here's where things stand before today's games:

National League Central Division:

Team Name ............... W - L ..... GB

Milwaukee Brewers .... 90 - 64 .... --- .... (8 games left)
St. Louis Cardinals ..... 84 - 69 ... 5.5 ... (9 games left)

The Brewers "Magic Number" is: -- 4

The magic number represents the combination of wins by the leading team and losses by the second-place team that would clinch the division title.

Today's game: Milwaukee in Chicago (vs. Cubs). 7:05pm (CST)

We need a win today. Go Brewers!

"Soto powers Cubs over Brewers" (last night's game recap)

-Jon

"The Great Remote Roundup"

2011-09-20T11:44:00.003-05:00

I didn't know this, but apparently you can round up cattle with a remote-controlled car. They're very skittish; It's a lot of fun to watch. Take a peek! ... [video]

-Jon

"A Weekend At The Cottage"

2011-09-20T10:36:00.003-05:00

This past weekend, Kelli and I spent a few days at a rustic cottage. The place is owned by my friend's family, and he's been staying there on a two week vacation -- by himself. This past weekend (the mid-point in his stay), he invited his fiancee, and Kelli and myself to join him. So, Kelli and I drove west into central Wisconsin, and got away from the busy-ness of civilization for a while.

Friday night was, for the most part, spent outdoors sitting around a campfire. Marshmallows were roasted, and conversation was lively. In the later evening, the two women went off to chat by themselves, while my friend (Scott) and I walked around the lake, making an after-dark trek up a nearby mountain to the county park at the top. After some creative brainstorming (on a project we're both involved in), we walked back down the mountain, and returned to the cottage.

An hour or so later, everyone went off to bed. The woman had the two available beds in the cottage, and Scott and I slept in the two second-level lofts (which you can only get to via ladders).

On Saturday, the women made breakfast, and then the four of us played a lively game of "Apples to Apples". We hung out for a while, and then by mid-afternoon, walked to the village nearby for dinner. And by village, I mean: a motel, a small dam, a mill/cafe (which was closed for renovation), a "town hall" (in what was probably an old school house), an old mechanics shop (which may have been a gas station in the 1950's), and the "Trading Post" -- a recently-built bar/restaurant constructed of wooden logs. Our dinner was at the Trading Post, and a good dinner it was. Burgers. Very tasty!

After dinner, the women went off to chat again, and Scott and I explored the local rural roads. We walked quite some distance, musing upon the hundreds of trees that had been snapped in half by a recent windstorm (the area around there is heavily wooded), and chatting upon a variety of topics. We eventually made it back to the cottage before nightfall, returning to our respective lofts a few hours later.

On Sunday, the women made breakfast again, this time outdoing themselves from the day before. After that, we hung out, and by late morning, Scott and his fiancee waded into the lake, and removed part of the dock -- a project that required the unscrewing of supports from the lake bed. I helped from the shore.

By about 1pm, Kelli and I packed our gear into the car, bid Scott and his fiancee farewell, and set out for home. Both woman are teachers. Kelli had lesson plans to work on; Scott's fiancee left shortly thereafter (probably for the same reasons).

All-in-all, it was a fun weekend away. I've been to that cottage a number of times before -- while I was still a bachelor and sharing an apartment with Scott in Milwaukee. This was, however, the first time I've been there since I was married.

If you'd like to see some pictures that I took while visiting the cottage, visit my Facebook photo album. If you'd like to see more photos (from other events/topics), they can be found here.

Have a wonderful Tuesday all! Until next time,

Your happily blogging friend,
-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-09-19T22:17:00.001-05:00

"The talent of success is nothing more than doing what you can do well, and doing well whatever you do without thought of fame. If it comes at all it will come because it is deserved, not because it is sought after." -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

-Jon

"Playoff Fever 2011: Clean Sweep"

2011-09-19T00:29:00.000-05:00

I was out-of-town this weekend, and thus unable to stay up-to-date on my Brewers "countdown to the Playoffs" theme. As it turns out, though, in my absence, they managed to sweep a three-game series from the Cincinnati Reds. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals lost one of their three games against the Philadelphia Phillies, and the Brewers gained one more game in their NL Central Division lead.

Here's where things stand as of this morning:

National League Central Division:

Team Name ............... W - L ..... GB

Milwaukee Brewers .... 90 - 63 .... --- .... (9 games left)
St. Louis Cardinals ..... 83 - 69 ... 6.5 ... (10 games left)

The Brewers "Magic Number" is: -- 4

The magic number represents the combination of wins by the leading team and losses by the second-place team that would clinch the division title.

Tonight's game: Milwaukee in Chicago (vs. Cubs). 7:05pm (CST)

We're getting down to the wire. Go Brewers!

"Brewers ride early runs to easy win"

-Jon

"The 'What Was There?' Project"

2011-09-15T22:20:00.002-05:00

The WhatWasThere project is a virtual time machine that ties historical photos to Google Maps, and allows you to tour familiar streets to see how they appeared in the past.

Anyone can participate in this project. You can easily upload a photo with two straightforward tags to provide context: Location and Year. If enough people upload enough places, the project will weave together a photographic history of the world (or, at least any place currently covered by Google Maps).

It's a fascinating idea. I may even have to start posting some photos of Brillion!

Take a peek. Visit the above link, type in your city or state, and start searching location photos from the past. You never know what you might find.

-Jon

"Playoff Fever 2011: Loss; Brewers Aren't Worried"

2011-09-14T22:40:00.002-05:00

The Milwaukee Brewers lost to the Colorado Rockies last night. Final score: 2-6. Meanwhile, the second-place St. Louis Cardinals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2. As a result, the Brewers lost a game in their NL Central Division lead.

Here's where things stand after today's games:

National League Central Division:

Team Name ............... W - L ..... GB

Milwaukee Brewers .... 87 - 63 .... --- .... (12 games left)
St. Louis Cardinals ..... 81 - 68 ... 5.5 ... (13 games left)

The Brewers "Magic Number" is (still): -- 8

The magic number represents the combination of wins by the leading team and losses by the second-place team that would clinch the division title.

Tomorrow's game: Both the Brewers and Cardinals have the day off.

Go Brewers!

"Fielder says Brewers aren’t worried"

-Jon

"Playoff Fever 2011: Walk-Off Homerun"

2011-09-14T01:57:00.009-05:00

With the Major League Baseball season winding to a close, and my local Milwaukee Brewers poised to make a rare Playoff appearance, I thought it might be fun to bring back an old blog theme from previous years. I thought I'd start a countdown to the National League Central Division Pennant!

So, that said... let's have at it.

Late last night, I sat down to watch the end of the Brewers game on television. When I joined the program, the contest was in the top of the 11th inning. The Brewers and Rockies were tied 1-1 after a great pitchers duel. Three outs later, the Rockies sat down, and the Brewers got their turn. The first batter up was our very own likely-MVP-candidate, Ryan Braun. After fighting off eight or nine great pitches, he launched a walk-off homerun into left-center, and the Brewers grabbed season-win number 87 (see video below)! Final score: Brewers 2, Rockies 1.

Here's where things stand at the end of this morning:

National League Central Division:

Team Name ............... W - L ..... GB

Milwaukee Brewers .... 87 - 62 .... --- .... (13 games left)
St. Louis Cardinals ..... 80 - 68 ... 6.5 ... (14 games left)

(NOTE: The other four teams in the division -- the Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburgh Pirates, Chicago Cubs, and Houston Astros -- have no chance of making it into the Playoffs this year.)

As of right now, the Brewers "Magic Number" is: -- 8

The magic number represents the combination of wins by the leading team and losses by the second-place team that would clinch the division title.

Tomorrow's game: Colorado Rockies in Milwaukee. 7:10pm (CST)

Go Brewers!

"Braun homers in 11th to lift Brewers over Rockies"

VIDEO: Ryan Braun's 12th career walk-off homerun

-Jon

"How to Work a Webcam"

2011-09-14T01:43:00.004-05:00

It's the simple things in life that matter: Love and Laughter. With that in mind, here's a delightful elderly couple as they try to figure out how to use their new webcam. They'll make you smile (and they don't even know their doing it!). Take a peek, and enjoy!

-Jon

"The Russian Commercial Space Station"

2011-09-14T00:44:00.004-05:00

A Russian company called Orbital Technologies has announced plans for a hotel in orbit -- 217 miles up. It would house seven guests in four cabins, and have huge windows for views of the Earth as it rotates below them. Of course, getting there will half the adventure, as it would take two days aboard a Soyuz rocket. The cost for a five-day stay: $158,000 -- with an addition $790,000 for the journey.

The Commercial Space Station as it's called, is due to open by 2016. Claims are that it will be far more comfortable than the International Space Station currently used by astronauts and cosmonauts.

It's a fascinating idea. Visit the link above to see photos.

-Jon

"14 Things You Might Not Know About Star Trek"

2011-09-13T22:42:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I'm a big fan of Star Trek. In fact, a lot of what I do these days -- including my job -- has to do with Star Trek. So, you'd expect me to know a lot about the topic, right? You'd be surprised.

Here's a list of 14 things you might not know about Star Trek:

1. The USS Enterprise was originally named the Yorktown.
2. Jeri Ryan ("Seven of Nine") was offered her role... four times.
3. Scotty had a hand double.
4. Leonard Nimoy was not the first choice for Spock.
5. Geordi’s visor was actually a modified auto filter.
6. The Borg was originally designed to be a race of insectoids.
7. Star Trek’s most famous line was not original.
8. Gene Roddenberry rests peacefully in space.
9. Watching all 726 episodes and 11 films back-to-back would take three weeks.
10. Michelle Forbes ("Ensign Ro") was the original choice for Major Kira on DS9.
11. Jadzia Dax’s Trill spots were hand-painted every day.
12. Kate Mulgrew was not the first choice for "Captain Janeway" on Star Trek: Voyager.
13. Mick Fleetwood, of Fleetwood Mac, shaved his beard for Star Trek.
14. Star Trek is credited with the first interracial kiss on television.

Ironically, some of these even I didn't know! Take a peek at the original list of of 14 things you might not know about Star Trek -- complete with photos, videos, and explanations. Enjoy!

-Jon

"Century Style Dance"

2011-09-13T21:56:00.000-05:00

This film is a 100 year countdown to the grand opening of Westfield Stratford City, London, UK on September 13th 2011. It celebrates a century of East London fashion, dance and music. The film was shot over 4 days in east London locations with hundreds of costume changes.

Great fun! Give it a watch, and enjoy!

-Jon

9/11: Ten Years Later

2011-09-12T02:00:00.003-05:00

Up until this morning, my knowledge of 9/11 and the attacks on the World Trade Center were confined to narrated media footage, countless articles... my imagination. I wasn't in New York City on September 11th. I wasn't a survivor. I awoke to the media coverage half-way across the country. For me, today was the first time I saw it first-hand. First-hand from the American who happened to have a video camera handy. First-hand from the emergency worker standing at the foot of the towers before they fell. First-hand from an on-looker unaware that the fires above him would soon be something far more frightening. First-hand from a fireman whose name is now written on a monument in Lower Manhattan.

9/11 through the media coverage was shocking. Frightening. Distant. 9/11 from the camera of an eye-witness is terrifying. Raw. Personal.

Yesterday, on this 10th anniversary of 9/11, I wanted to remember. To reflect. To be thankful. I picked three of the 9/11 programs on television, and spent a few hours revisiting various topics about the day.

One of the programs I selected was that of 9/11 as documented through the raw camera footage of first-hand witnesses. No narration. No media reporters trying to break a story. Just life as it happened. Life as it was experienced.

And, as expected, I was introduced to a great deal of imagery I never imagined: Young people watching from their high-rise apartment a mile away from Ground Zero... watching... wondering... seeing the towers one minute, then gone the next. // Two wide-eyed little children... a confused little girl saying, "The World Trade Center... it's not there." // Listening to radio communication with firemen in the south tower documenting their climb up to the 70th floor.... moments before the tower collapsed to the ground. // Listening to emergency workers, covered in dust, panting for water, drinking their fill, then putting their gear back on... and going right back into the cloud of debris. // Following along with an army -- a sea -- of newly-arrived firefighters, flowing down a New York street toward the wreckage of the first tower, heavy fire hoses wrapped around their shoulders.... only to see those same men moments later, standing silent, stunned, as the dust from the second tower swirled around them. // Watching as a bewildered businessman shuffled slowly out of the cloud, alone, his clothing hanging off of him, covered in dust... dragging his briefcase behind him, and asking... "Where is everyone going?" // Watching as people exited the World Trade Center buildings before they fell... knowing that THEY were the lucky ones. // Seeing stunned New Yorkers in Times Square, looking up, watching the media coverage... their mouths open in horror. // Watching people stand agape at the jumpers choosing free-fall over burning flames.

That's what I saw this morning. 9/11. Real. First-hand.

Ten years ago on a Tuesday, I awoke to the media coverage from my college apartment -- safe in the confines of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The first tower had already fallen. I was awake to see the rest. I was heartbroken, transfixed, angry. I didn't attend any of my classes that day. My heart just wasn't in it.

Today I saw 9/11 from a different perspective. I'll never forget it.

The United States is my home. I'm proud to live here. I'm blessed to live here. I will always remember 9/11. The loss... the unsung heroes... the servicemen and woman... the way it changed my life.

I can forgive (or try to forgive) those who enact their bitter hatred upon my country. I can move on. But I will never forget. Because... it is when we forget that past, when we stop remembering, when we ignor what came before... that is when we doom ourselves to repeat it.

And I don't wish to remember another 9/11.

-Jon

"United States Air Force Museum Virtual Tour"

2011-08-26T12:46:00.002-05:00

Now this is cool!:

You can take a 3D self-guided virtual tour of the entire United States Air Force Museum located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Entirely from the comfort of your own home. You can navigate through the online galleries either by using a drop-down map, or by following navigational arrows connecting the individual nodes. Icons indicate hot-spots where you can get additional information such as videos, audio or links to online resources.

Give the site a visit, and enjoy the photos, planes, and exhibits! It's well worth your time!

-Jon

"First Day of School For Kelli"

2011-08-25T22:52:00.001-05:00

Kelli is back in the classroom starting today. Her kindergarten class this year stands at fifteen kids. And unlike last year, it seems to be a good mix of boys and girls -- something Kelli has been eager for. If I remember correctly, she had a classroom of 13 kids last year, two of which were boys. And the year before that, a classroom of 11, with only two or three girls.

As I hear it, a classroom of boys presents a whole different set of challenges than a classroom of mostly girls. Hopefully this year will be more even keel.

I find it interesting too that the first day of school this year is a Thursday. Kelli likes it that way, because the kids can get settled into the school routine on Thursday and Friday, and then start actual classes on Monday. I don't remember it working that way when I was in grade school, but then again, that was over 20 years ago. I guess if it works this way, why change it.... right?

Now that Kelli's back at school, I'll have to get used to her not being around again. During summer, she was still the administrator of the school's Early Childhood program. She had administrative stuff to take care of, and her staff of teachers worked with the kids... most of the time. Occasionally she'd go in and spend the day with the kids, but for the most part, she was home more than she was at school. Now, she's gone all day, and I wake up to a quiet house. I'm the only one here until mid-afternoon.

I don't mind the quiet. In fact, I work best in this kind of setting. Just me, my work, and my office. Still, the absence of wife will take some getting used to.

How has YOUR house changed now that school is back in session?

-Jon

"Coming Soon: Jon's Product Designs"

2011-08-22T23:54:00.000-05:00

I've been spending a lot of time adding new products to my online store. Not everyone knows that I do this, or that I even design and sell my own line of merchandise. But, hey, it IS one of my chosen professions. So I though I'd get back into the habit of sharing some here on my blog.

A while back, I used to have a blog feature called "T-Shirt Thursday". Originally, it was an opportunity to show my readers some of the t-shirt items I designed. However, over the years, I've branched out into other products beyond apparel. Now, I design and sell everything from posters, prints, fleece blankets, laptop skins, mugs and much more. Lots of themed categories too, some of which sell very well.

In the coming days, I'll start sharing some of my favorite products again. I won't confine them to once-a-week as I did the first time around, rather, I'll just post a selection when the notion strikes me, and go from there. If any of the products interest you, feel free to share them with friends. I already sell internationally, and have customers as far away as Japan and Australia. None of my public work is a secret.

When I post product images, I'll also write a little about the category or theme as well. You'll hear about why I made those products, what they mean to me, feedback I've heard from others, the successes that have come my way.... that sort of thing. If my work fascinates you, by all means, stick around. There'll be a little something for everyone!

Stay tuned!

-Jon

"Gamarjobat"

2011-08-22T23:36:00.003-05:00

Gamarjobat are an award-winning Japanese comedy duo consisting of Ketch!, who sports a red mohawk, and HIRO-PON, who has a yellow mohawk. The duo perform a variety of sketches, including mimes and physical comedy. They're definitely unique. One Youtube commenter summed them up in the following: "...all the cheap & easy jokes, done to perfection."

Sit back, give them a watch, and enjoy!

-Jon

"Quote of the Day"

2011-08-12T01:59:00.001-05:00

"You get ideas from daydreaming. You get ideas from being bored. You get ideas all the time. The only difference between writers and other people is we notice when we're doing it."
-- Neil Gaiman

-Jon

"Plot Device"

2011-07-23T00:19:00.002-05:00

A young filmmaker needs an idea to launch his career. But no matter how hard he tries, he keeps coming up empty. Then, one day, while browsing Amazon.com, he sees a "Plot Device" for sale. He has no idea what it is, but he buys it anyway.

A few days later, a mysterious device, labelled "Plot Device", arrives in the mail. There's a single button on it. Curious, he pushes it...

Watch this great little short film to find out what happens next.

-Jon

"Pensmore: The Missouri Castle"

2011-07-22T22:05:00.005-05:00

There's a castle being built in Missouri. It's called Pensmore, and it's a 72,000 square-foot residence, soon to be the home of Steven Huff, chairman of Wisconsin-based TF Concrete Forming Systems.

Once completed, Pensmore will be considered one of the largest residential homes in the United States. It sits on 500 acres, it's also being made of reinforced concrete, and it has has the capability to withstand an F5 tornado. Completion is slated for 2012 or 2013.

Check out the Pensmore website to see some photos and learn more.

"Gigantic home attracts notice"

-Jon

"Star Trek Captain's Chair Replica"

2011-07-22T21:23:00.005-05:00

There's a new Star Trek collectible on the market -- a full-size set-accurate replica of Captain James T. Kirk's command chair from the bridge of the Starship Enterprise. Hand-built by Steve Horch, and his company, HMS Creative Productions, this exact replica sells for $5,499.99.

Personally, I think it's a fantastic collectible! A great idea, and a unique product at that. Unfortunately, I don't think my wife would approve of one of these taking up space in the our house.

But I can still dream, though, right?

-Jon

"Jim Meskimen: Shakespeare In Celebrity Voices"

2011-07-21T18:36:00.001-05:00

Jim Meskimen performs Clarence's speech from William Shakespeare's Richard III... but does so in the voices of different celebrities. Voices include: William Shatner, George W. Bush, Morgan Freeman, Christopher Walken, and more. Enjoy!

-Jon

"NASA Space Shuttle Atlantis Makes Final Landing"

2011-07-21T17:20:00.005-05:00

Early this morning, the Shuttle Atlantis landed at the Kennedy Space Center. It was the last flight of the American Space Shuttle Program, and the end of an era. From now on, American astronauts will hitch rides to the space station via Russian Soyuz rockets. It will be at least three years -- maybe more -- before Americans are once again launched into orbit from U.S. soil.

All-in-all, during the course of it's 30-year history, the American shuttle program has launched 135 missions. It's traveled more than 537 million miles in orbit, and has carried 335 astronauts into space -- 14 of whom died when the shuttles Columbia and Challenger were lost.

NASA will continue to study our solar system, astronauts will still go into space (courtesy of the Russians), and unmanned missions are currently being planned. But the future of American manned space missions remains uncertain.

-Jon

"Hot, Hot, Hot"

2011-07-20T15:40:00.004-05:00

The current temperature here in Brillion, WI is 94F. However, with the heat index, it feels more like 106F. And right now, we're under an Excessive Heat Warning -- in effect until tomorrow afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service, an excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible. To avoid such situations, drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, and stay out of the sun.

This is, without a doubt, the hottest day so far this summer. Apparently, it's also some of the hottest weather we've seen since July 1995. Back then, on the 13th and 14th, temperatures in this area climbed above 100F. We're not there yet this year, but we're close. And that's hot enough in my book.

If you're outside... stay cool.

-Jon

"10 Cheap Date Ideas She’ll Actually Love"

2011-07-15T11:02:00.002-05:00

Taking women out on dates doesn't have to be expensive. You just have to be creative. Too many men believe they can buy their way out of thinking. But creative and inexpensive dates are usually the best kind. They're more memorable than the standard dinner and a movie, and, when a woman sees that you're thoughtful, she won't care how much money you spent on taking her out.

Here are 10 inexpensive date ideas that are sure to impress.

-Jon

"The Colour Clock"

2011-07-12T01:12:00.003-05:00

Now THIS is cool! It's an online digital clock representing time as a hexadecimal color value. Time is translated into an ever-changing color value, and then that color is displayed as the seconds counts up. It's called, The Colour Clock, and it's a novel concept. Take a peek!

And for those that don't know, a "hexadecimal color value" is a six-digit code used to represent colors. It can include numbers and letters. All colors you see on your computer have one of these codes. Here are some more details on web colors, if you're interested.

-Jon

"Wedding Anniversary Weekend"

2011-07-11T19:32:00.009-05:00

This past weekend was my 1st wedding anniversary; Kelli and I have been married for twelve months now. In the grand scheme of things, that's not a lot, but it is a successful start to the years that will follow. Personally, I'm rooting for 49 more. We'll see; God holds the cards on that one.

I actually put together some fun plans to celebrate this weekend. On Saturday, I was prepared to surprise Kelli and take her on an old-fashioned picnic. She said she wanted to go somewhere (away from Brillion), and previous plans to spend time up in Door County hadn't worked out. So my idea was to put together picnic gear and head east to the shore of Lake Michigan. Manitowoc's Silver Lake Park seemed like a scenic spot. Plus, it was close-to-home, yet along the same beautiful water that borders Door County to the north.

Unfortunately, a number of factors got in the way. Kelli wasn't feeling up to a picnic, it was a warm muggy day, and, as we later found out, it was raining when we would have been laying out on the grass. So, we ended up going out to eat at Red Lobster instead, which was just as enjoyable. Lobster is a treat in our corner of the world. We might still try the picnic idea later in the week -- just for the fun of it.

On Sunday, I treated Kelli to another meal out -- this time, as originally planned. We went to Olive Garden, and enjoyed a tasty Italian dinner. Afterwards, I had planned for us to return home, crack open a bottle of wine, and cuddle on the couch while watching a romantic movie. As it turned out, though, we ended up doing a little shopping at Barnes and Noble, and then went to the movie theater to see "Kung Fu Panda 2" instead. Not quite as romantic as I had hoped, but still well worth the change in plans. Good movie too. Maybe even better than the first.

As I've been told, Kelli and I will probably follow up on the wine and romantic movie idea later in the week as well. It just won't be an anniversary thing.

I also got Kelli some chocolates. She likes chocolates. Unfortunately (as should probably have been expected), I couldn't find her the romantic collection that I wanted -- stores around here just don't seem to carry that sort of thing. So I compromised, and got her some of her favorites -- that the store did have. Not quite the same thing. But, it's the thought that counts.

In the end, my anniversary plans didn't quite work out as I had hoped, but it still turned out to be a wonderful date weekend nonetheless. I like to be creative with my romance ideas, even if things change at the last minute. I did arrange, though, to have a dozen red roses delivered to Kelli on Saturday morning. She really liked that. For months she'd been commenting that I never got her flowers. But I had good reason. I wanted to surprise her this weekend. And, I think I did. She's drying one of the roses as we speak -- to save it's beauty indefinitely.

Now that it's Monday (July 11th), the weekend is over, and a new year of marriage begins. I don't know what's in store for the two of us in the NEXT twelve months, but I do know this: I have an amazing wife, and if year two is anything like year one... it'll be a wonderful, exciting, always-learning-something-new adventure -- the kind that keeps you on your toes, but yet always finds a way to fascinate. It's usually full of unexpected moments, but it's ALWAYS memorable!

And memories are what bring people closer together.

So... here's to year two. The unknown continues. Let's see what awaits!

-Jon

"Firefly, The Rap"

2011-07-09T02:06:00.000-05:00

I'm not a fan of rap. It's not my thing. But THIS rap I like! Watch and enjoy!

-Jon

"The Artist That Paints With Her Lips"

2011-07-09T01:43:00.003-05:00

Natalie Irish doesn't need to use her hands to create mind-blowing masterpieces. That's because she paints portraits using only her lips and lipstick. This Houston-based artist simply puckers her lips and kisses the canvas a few thousand time until she gets the desired effect.

And, believe it or not, she's actually pretty good! Take a peek... and enjoy!

-Jon