Joe Barbera, the co-creator of cartoon characters as Tom and Jerry, Yogi Bear and the Flintstones, died today. Bill Hanna, the other co-creator, died in 2001. CBC reported Barbera died at age 95 due to natural causes. Seems like this marks an end of an era that greatly influenced American pop culture. Look at the spinoffs, such as the Simpsons, the Family Guy, American Dad and so on ...
Even though these cartoons were created before my time, I recall rushing home from school to watch the Flinstones during the lunch hour on the local CTV station affiliate CKCK. It didn't matter if it was I had seen the episode already. It was the oh-so-clever banter between Fred and Barney, the mischevious antics of the alien Gazoo. Apparently he was exiled from his home planet Zetox for inventing a weapon capable of vapourizing the universe. He apparently had to help "dumb-dumbs" like Fred and Barney as part of his punshiment. The best part was that only Fred and Barney saw Gazoo (interesting that Gazoo only was helping these pair of "dumb-dumbs). By the way, if you want to learn more useless trivia about the Flinstones, there's a site dedicated to them.
Never was a fan of Yogi Bear. He seemed to be a bit too dense. Fred, however, had an ounce of smarts ... just enough to get him in trouble with Wilma, usually. This cartoon, though, really had quite a strong statement about female and male relationships. Wilma was the fiery and independent red-head who wants to do something more with her life (remember her entering that baking contest ... yea, it is a domestic affair, but still, her drive to win ...) and her attempts to use the nest egg for that new appliance without Fred's knowledge (while Fred tried to sneak that same money to buy a new bowling ball). Of course, Wilma is often frustrated by the patronistic and machoistic attitude of her brute of a husband. Fred was smart enough to keep his marriage together, which you gotta give him some credit.
Monday, December 18
bugging politicans
Who would have thunk the "Greatest Canadian", the meek-mannered minister from Saskatchewan, would be followed for decades. Seems like the police didn't trust Tommy Douglas when he was in office ... in fact, CBC news reports indicated Douglas had no clue under surveillance. Police suspected Douglas of being involved with Communist parties, but none of these beliefs could be verified.
It baffles me how suspicious people can get based on a few actions. Could you imagine all your conversations and interactions being followed without your knowledge? Wouldn't you just be mortified to find that out? Wonder what Shirley, Douglas' daughter, thinks about this latest report.
It seems most of this material is still sealed ... which the Library and Archives has some of this material. Hopefully the sensitive parts will be blacked out and the rest of the historically relevant materials will be preserved in a tactful manner.
It baffles me how suspicious people can get based on a few actions. Could you imagine all your conversations and interactions being followed without your knowledge? Wouldn't you just be mortified to find that out? Wonder what Shirley, Douglas' daughter, thinks about this latest report.
It seems most of this material is still sealed ... which the Library and Archives has some of this material. Hopefully the sensitive parts will be blacked out and the rest of the historically relevant materials will be preserved in a tactful manner.
Sunday, December 17
Gift or no gift
Hmmm ... buy nothing for Christmas. Justine referred me to this link on my previous post. I think it's a great idea! (no, it's not just because I don't want to fight the crowds in malls, although that is a good reason)
It does refer to some alternative gifts to give. Essentially, the most treasured gifts are those that reflect the thought and time put into it. Guess the old adage ... "it's the thought that counts" really does hold water.
It does refer to some alternative gifts to give. Essentially, the most treasured gifts are those that reflect the thought and time put into it. Guess the old adage ... "it's the thought that counts" really does hold water.
Saturday, December 16
Christmas shopping frenzy
It's been nine weeks since scissors have touched my hair. So, I found a *somewhat* reasonable hair salon nearby. It was a bit higher end then my usual beauty salon I frequent. In less than a minute, the hairstylist had sized up the characteristics of my insane hair type. Very impressive. She was very quick! I think it was worth it, in the end.
Afterwards, I dropped by Indigo (as it was just a few steps away) to browse books, but then decided to leave promptly when I saw hoards of people lining up at all the cashiers. Christmas is quickly approaching and the weather here is quite mild ... thankfully I'm pretty much done.
I'm even done Christmas cards too, much to my surprise. Usually cards are slashed to 50 per cent on boxing day. This year, I noticed stores are actually discounting the cards before the season (much smarter, so people will actually buy more ...)
Afterwards, I dropped by Indigo (as it was just a few steps away) to browse books, but then decided to leave promptly when I saw hoards of people lining up at all the cashiers. Christmas is quickly approaching and the weather here is quite mild ... thankfully I'm pretty much done.
I'm even done Christmas cards too, much to my surprise. Usually cards are slashed to 50 per cent on boxing day. This year, I noticed stores are actually discounting the cards before the season (much smarter, so people will actually buy more ...)
Sunday, November 26
paper or plastic?
Today, I went grocery shopping in my new neighbourhood Whole Foods Market. It's a bit pricey, but ValuMart had already closed for the day and I desparately needed some food for the week. At the til, the person who bags groceries asked me, "Paper or plastic?" To which I said, "Pardon?" I am not accustomed to having a choice of bags. I chose paper, since I could. And lo and behold, I found that they are encouraging people to re-use paper bags (get 10 cents off next purchase when you use one).
I may choose to use them there or another grocery store. It's still pretty cool to have such fashionable bags for toting food.
Saturday, November 25
Moving Day
As you can see, this is my new little bachelor pad in Yorkville. It took about a little more than two hours to load, drive downtown and unload. It was so great to have the sofabed, bed and curtains ready. The weather was great, too. A bit foggy in the morning, but no rain or snow. Thank God. I'll give you the 50-cent tour of the place:
Sadly, my kitchen is really, really tiny. Oh well.
And ... my mattress, which was on the floor in my London apartment now has a frame. How perfect is that? After the move, I crashed on the couch for an hour or so. It felt so great to unpack my stuff ... and feel settled for once in about three months. Oh yea, my large closet doesn't have a hanging bar ... it has these tiny little hooks where you put your hangers.
The bathroom is a decent size, at least for one person. I love this curtain I found at Wal-Mart.
And that's all. It already feels like home.
Saturday, November 18
Bollywood meets Corner Gas
Hmmm ... the CBC announced it is producing a new comedy sitcom called, Little Mosque on the Prairie on its official blog. Does this sound familiar at all?
The series creator, Zarqa Nawaz, hopes that "... by using comedy to disarm people of all races, it will invite them to think outside of their fixed cultural perceptions." Perhaps the CBC is trying to ride the popular CTV sitcom Corner Gas, a truly homegrown show staring series concept creator Brent Butt, who grew up in a prairie small-town. Also, there's Little House on the Prairie which was a very popular series about life on the Western American frontier. I guess Little House on the Prairie was a hit. They have released the series on home video for everyone to re-live the pioneer life.
Does the creation of this new series suggest that Saskatchewan's popularity is still on the rise? Or is that the Canadian television viewing public are looking for more grassroots entertinament?
Looking back, Saskatchewan has produced many talented artists, such as songwriter and painter Joni Mitchell, bands like Northern Pikes and the Waltons, the Regina Five (artists), to name a few. Now Zarqa Nawaz, who has produced more serious films about how Muslims are perceived.
Corner Gas may have put Saskatchewan on the map for humour. People actually want to see the set of Corner Gas, which is set in Rouleau, Saskatchewan - a typical southern Saskatchewan town that has a row of buildings and is located just outside of Regina. Rouleau is a blip on the flat prairie land. Really, not much to see. Most people who say they've been to Saskatchewan say they've flown over it or driven through it or by it. It's not usually a place people choose to spend their hard-earned vacation days. I'm quite mystified how such a show has garnered such keen interest from the Canadian public. (Just a note: apparently there's a person who is hired to be stationed by the set so fans don't go too close to the set.)
Several years ago, Saskatchewan Premier Lorne Calvert spent a few million dollars on an advertising campaign to promote how great it is to live and do business in Saskatchewan. This campaign caused quite the stir. Taxpayers did not want their hard-earned cash going towards what they considered a pointless cause. Who is going to come to a new province, start a new life based on one television ad they saw? It's hard to say (and tangibly measure) if these ads really had any impact on the Saskatchewan economy.
Maybe if enough people can laugh and relate with Saskatchewan folk, they might want to become their neighbours.
The series creator, Zarqa Nawaz, hopes that "... by using comedy to disarm people of all races, it will invite them to think outside of their fixed cultural perceptions." Perhaps the CBC is trying to ride the popular CTV sitcom Corner Gas, a truly homegrown show staring series concept creator Brent Butt, who grew up in a prairie small-town. Also, there's Little House on the Prairie which was a very popular series about life on the Western American frontier. I guess Little House on the Prairie was a hit. They have released the series on home video for everyone to re-live the pioneer life.
Does the creation of this new series suggest that Saskatchewan's popularity is still on the rise? Or is that the Canadian television viewing public are looking for more grassroots entertinament?
Looking back, Saskatchewan has produced many talented artists, such as songwriter and painter Joni Mitchell, bands like Northern Pikes and the Waltons, the Regina Five (artists), to name a few. Now Zarqa Nawaz, who has produced more serious films about how Muslims are perceived.
Corner Gas may have put Saskatchewan on the map for humour. People actually want to see the set of Corner Gas, which is set in Rouleau, Saskatchewan - a typical southern Saskatchewan town that has a row of buildings and is located just outside of Regina. Rouleau is a blip on the flat prairie land. Really, not much to see. Most people who say they've been to Saskatchewan say they've flown over it or driven through it or by it. It's not usually a place people choose to spend their hard-earned vacation days. I'm quite mystified how such a show has garnered such keen interest from the Canadian public. (Just a note: apparently there's a person who is hired to be stationed by the set so fans don't go too close to the set.)
Several years ago, Saskatchewan Premier Lorne Calvert spent a few million dollars on an advertising campaign to promote how great it is to live and do business in Saskatchewan. This campaign caused quite the stir. Taxpayers did not want their hard-earned cash going towards what they considered a pointless cause. Who is going to come to a new province, start a new life based on one television ad they saw? It's hard to say (and tangibly measure) if these ads really had any impact on the Saskatchewan economy.
Maybe if enough people can laugh and relate with Saskatchewan folk, they might want to become their neighbours.
Saturday, November 11
Remembrance Day
Today was Remembrance Day. Just watched a You Tube music video posted by Tom on his site about honouring those who have laid their lives for peace. And yesterday, the 60 Minutes journalist Ed Bradley died from cancer in New York. He was 70 years old. I admit, I haven't seen a lot of his work, but what I did see, I admired.
Here are two of Bradley's colleagues reflecting about him.
Sounds like he lived a full life and was one of those people everyone loved.
Here are two of Bradley's colleagues reflecting about him.
Sounds like he lived a full life and was one of those people everyone loved.
Thursday, November 9
Teachers
Just finished Frank McCourt's autobiographical book The Teacher Man. It was an interesting insight into a teacher's mind. He was one of those inspirational teachers kids remembered after they've grown up. So many stories of students' lives that affected him. And it shed some light on his own education journey as a Trinity doctoral candidate.
Teachers that stand out in my student career are Mrs. Nichols and Mrs. Morrell. Mrs. Nichols was my Grade 3 teacher who introduced us to the boy wonder detective Encyclopedia Brown who always seemed to crack such challenging cases and C.S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (when the cartoon version came out). She also recognized I needed a bit of an extra hand in the language side of things (Note: Cantonese was technically my mother tongue ... I've been told I learned my basic English from Sesame Street prior to entering kindergarten). She also was there one who assigned me extra 'homework' to help me improve my comprehension skills. Mrs. Morrell was my Grade 7 Science teacher. The most patient, encouraging and gentle person - ever. She somehow made science interesting. She encouraged me to open up and speak what was on my mind.
In high school, Mr. Kroiter's Social Studies and English classes were always entertaining and educational. He had a good sense of humour and knew how to handle kids. He once transformed the yardstick into the sword Hamlet used. He was hip enough to get the Mel Gibson version of Hamlet, too.
I've been to three universities, too. And there are memorable profs, of course. History Prof. Pitsula had a photographic memory. That or he memorized all his notes and students' faces with flashcards. Never did see him look at a piece of paper while lecturing. While knowledge of Canadian history was impressive, his interest was infectious. To help bring the history to life, he would bring in clips ... such as Tommy Douglas giving a campaign speech. Broadcast 101 ... CBC's Vinyl Cafe host Stuart McLean taught us the basics of radio reporting. He had a wicked sense of humour and was such an inspiration to us green j-school students. 502 Classification of Information Prof Davies made cataloging fun!
These teachers cared about their students and imparted more than just curriculum and book knowledge. Like McCourt, they helped students develop their potential in preparation for a journey called life.
Teachers that stand out in my student career are Mrs. Nichols and Mrs. Morrell. Mrs. Nichols was my Grade 3 teacher who introduced us to the boy wonder detective Encyclopedia Brown who always seemed to crack such challenging cases and C.S. Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (when the cartoon version came out). She also recognized I needed a bit of an extra hand in the language side of things (Note: Cantonese was technically my mother tongue ... I've been told I learned my basic English from Sesame Street prior to entering kindergarten). She also was there one who assigned me extra 'homework' to help me improve my comprehension skills. Mrs. Morrell was my Grade 7 Science teacher. The most patient, encouraging and gentle person - ever. She somehow made science interesting. She encouraged me to open up and speak what was on my mind.
In high school, Mr. Kroiter's Social Studies and English classes were always entertaining and educational. He had a good sense of humour and knew how to handle kids. He once transformed the yardstick into the sword Hamlet used. He was hip enough to get the Mel Gibson version of Hamlet, too.
I've been to three universities, too. And there are memorable profs, of course. History Prof. Pitsula had a photographic memory. That or he memorized all his notes and students' faces with flashcards. Never did see him look at a piece of paper while lecturing. While knowledge of Canadian history was impressive, his interest was infectious. To help bring the history to life, he would bring in clips ... such as Tommy Douglas giving a campaign speech. Broadcast 101 ... CBC's Vinyl Cafe host Stuart McLean taught us the basics of radio reporting. He had a wicked sense of humour and was such an inspiration to us green j-school students. 502 Classification of Information Prof Davies made cataloging fun!
These teachers cared about their students and imparted more than just curriculum and book knowledge. Like McCourt, they helped students develop their potential in preparation for a journey called life.
Wednesday, November 1
Day One
Phew!
Made it through the first day of work relatively smoothly. It was a pretty relaxed first day. Got up about 7 a.m. even though the alarm was set at 6.30 a.m. (groan). Sharon and I just caught the bus as it was arriving shortly after 7.30 a.m. (perfect timing!) (side note: Sharon is my friend whom I was one of her bridesmaids last year and I'm also staying with her these days. :)
So, it took about an hour to get downtown to work from her place. Thankfully I'll only have to do this four a couple of weeks. When I get moved into my new place (only four or five subway stops away from work), I should be able to sleep in a bit ...
Anyhow, timing was perfect at work, too. As I headed into the main building, I ran into my supervisor. She happened to be going into work early. So, she took me to security to get my photo ID badge, and brought me upstairs. I got a quick tour and lots of materials to read (re: cataloging, union and cbc general stuff). In the afternoon, it was all about cataloging. Not too bad for the first run. Also got to meet my other supervisor (for reference) near the end of the day. I'll get to work with him next week after I master cataloging ... *right*.
I was a bit apprehensive about cataloging since I hadn't done it ... well, since I did descriptive cataloging in Winter 2006. My first attempt wasn't too bad. Mind you, they don't expect perfection the first go around (thankfully).
The co-workers are all friendly. They're all willing to pitch in ... and answer questions and help out. It's very collegial. My cubicle neighbours get to work on things like the documentary side of The National, Venture, Marketplace .... Children's programming! It's a pretty laid back atmosphere, which I really appreciate. And, to top things off, there was a bag full of leftover Hallowe'en candy on the "snack" table. :D
Funny thing ... I ran into one of my former first-year roommates at Ryerson. She works in the library, too. Also, I saw a former j-school classmate in the newsroom. Small world!
So far, things are off to a good start!
Made it through the first day of work relatively smoothly. It was a pretty relaxed first day. Got up about 7 a.m. even though the alarm was set at 6.30 a.m. (groan). Sharon and I just caught the bus as it was arriving shortly after 7.30 a.m. (perfect timing!) (side note: Sharon is my friend whom I was one of her bridesmaids last year and I'm also staying with her these days. :)
So, it took about an hour to get downtown to work from her place. Thankfully I'll only have to do this four a couple of weeks. When I get moved into my new place (only four or five subway stops away from work), I should be able to sleep in a bit ...
Anyhow, timing was perfect at work, too. As I headed into the main building, I ran into my supervisor. She happened to be going into work early. So, she took me to security to get my photo ID badge, and brought me upstairs. I got a quick tour and lots of materials to read (re: cataloging, union and cbc general stuff). In the afternoon, it was all about cataloging. Not too bad for the first run. Also got to meet my other supervisor (for reference) near the end of the day. I'll get to work with him next week after I master cataloging ... *right*.
I was a bit apprehensive about cataloging since I hadn't done it ... well, since I did descriptive cataloging in Winter 2006. My first attempt wasn't too bad. Mind you, they don't expect perfection the first go around (thankfully).
The co-workers are all friendly. They're all willing to pitch in ... and answer questions and help out. It's very collegial. My cubicle neighbours get to work on things like the documentary side of The National, Venture, Marketplace .... Children's programming! It's a pretty laid back atmosphere, which I really appreciate. And, to top things off, there was a bag full of leftover Hallowe'en candy on the "snack" table. :D
Funny thing ... I ran into one of my former first-year roommates at Ryerson. She works in the library, too. Also, I saw a former j-school classmate in the newsroom. Small world!
So far, things are off to a good start!
Tuesday, October 31
biodegradable bags and thoughts on being green
When the cashier at Mountain Equipment Co-operative (MEC) asked if I wanted a plastic bag for my newly purchased sling-style bag, she said, "Do you want to add to your collection of bags?" (note: I had three other plastic bags full of groceries), I reluctantly agreed to take yet another one.
What I didn't realize was this MEC bag was biodegradable. This concept is very environmentally friendly. Growing up in my household, or family always used plastic bags from stores to collect our refuse. So having biodegradable plastic bags (if they are used as garbage bags) would be ideal. But I wonder what the shelf life of these bags are. Suppose the store doesn't use that many bags (as the disclaimer on the bag actually discourages its consumers from using additional bags), then what if they ordered too many bags? Are these bags ... garbage?
Earlier that day, I went grocery shopping with a friend in Chinatown. She opted to use a cloth bag to tote around her food purchases. Her cloth bag brought back memories of my mother, who being the pragmatic chinese seamstress she was, made bags for us when we were kids ... bags for library books, bags for ballet gear, for example. When Superstore started charging a per bag fee, she sewed several large cloth bags to use. I guess she was environmentally friendly way before it was fashionable.
Wednesday, October 25
Adjusting to Big City Life
I forgot how big and diverse the city of Toronto can be. And, because I've lived in smaller cities for most of the past seven years, I feel like a country bumpkin. Here are a few things I've noticed in the past few days ...
Apartment etiquette
If you are in an apartment lobby and you are trying to get into the apartment, ideally, you should have the main door key. If not, is it expected that a person in the apartment lobby should open the door for you (even if the person does not live in the apartment)? Well, this scenario popped up twice in the place I will be moving into in November. Personally, I think no one should open the door for another person unless they know they live in the apartment. There are cases when people have come in when they don't live there ... and that person could be looking for something to steal. My sister's condo had signs up about a person caught on camera ... as an intruder who broke in and entered into one of the apartments. Anyhow, these two people who thought I should have let them into the apartment were incredibly and needlessly rude when I didn't let them in. Maybe I had an invisible sign on my head that read "doorperson" or something. Please slap me if I ever get that rude!
Crazy Traffic Toronto
As part of the family vacation, usually I end up being the navigator (by default). This can be quite stressful - especially when the driver doesn't quite hear the directions correctly. For example, I instructed my father to drive past Sheppard and then he would find the 401 West exit. Instead, he turned right onto Sheppard. Sigh. Anyhow, we usually didn't get too lost ... we didn't end up in some strange state! It was advantageous to be the navigator as I was exposed to the street names. Hence, when looking for places to live, I recognized some of the streets and realized I wouldn't want to live that far out in the boonies (i.e. Kingston and Meadowvale ... which is located nearly in Scarborough!)
Cheap Outlet Shopping Malls
I don't mind this part of living in bigger cities. However, it is still a trek to get to these outlet malls. The one my parents and I went to today was ... still pretty far out there. However, I scored a couple of good deals: a jacket for $15 (normally $60) and a cute bag for $3 (normally $30) for my sister.
I must admit, there are some really friendly people here in Toronto too, thankfully. So, I guess things balance out in some weird way. It's kinda strange moving back to Toronto because, although I did used to live here four years, that was seven years ago. So much has changed. But I guess it's better than starting from scratch.
Apartment etiquette
If you are in an apartment lobby and you are trying to get into the apartment, ideally, you should have the main door key. If not, is it expected that a person in the apartment lobby should open the door for you (even if the person does not live in the apartment)? Well, this scenario popped up twice in the place I will be moving into in November. Personally, I think no one should open the door for another person unless they know they live in the apartment. There are cases when people have come in when they don't live there ... and that person could be looking for something to steal. My sister's condo had signs up about a person caught on camera ... as an intruder who broke in and entered into one of the apartments. Anyhow, these two people who thought I should have let them into the apartment were incredibly and needlessly rude when I didn't let them in. Maybe I had an invisible sign on my head that read "doorperson" or something. Please slap me if I ever get that rude!
Crazy Traffic Toronto
As part of the family vacation, usually I end up being the navigator (by default). This can be quite stressful - especially when the driver doesn't quite hear the directions correctly. For example, I instructed my father to drive past Sheppard and then he would find the 401 West exit. Instead, he turned right onto Sheppard. Sigh. Anyhow, we usually didn't get too lost ... we didn't end up in some strange state! It was advantageous to be the navigator as I was exposed to the street names. Hence, when looking for places to live, I recognized some of the streets and realized I wouldn't want to live that far out in the boonies (i.e. Kingston and Meadowvale ... which is located nearly in Scarborough!)
Cheap Outlet Shopping Malls
I don't mind this part of living in bigger cities. However, it is still a trek to get to these outlet malls. The one my parents and I went to today was ... still pretty far out there. However, I scored a couple of good deals: a jacket for $15 (normally $60) and a cute bag for $3 (normally $30) for my sister.
I must admit, there are some really friendly people here in Toronto too, thankfully. So, I guess things balance out in some weird way. It's kinda strange moving back to Toronto because, although I did used to live here four years, that was seven years ago. So much has changed. But I guess it's better than starting from scratch.
Monday, October 23
Finally... convocation!
Well, Friday, October 20, 2006 will go down in history ... for as the MLIS convocation. Here is my family (pictured above). We're smiling because we're relieved the ceremony is over. Or maybe we're satisfied with the yummy cake we've been fed by the alumni association.
The weather was overcast, cold and rainy. It was good seeing most of the classmates. One thing they don't tell you about completing your degree ... the final test ... learning how to hold your hood properly, walking on stage the at the right speed, order and manner, and kneeling properly in order to get hooded. It was enough information overload to make us a bit nervous crossing the stage. Thankfully everyone made it safely across the stage.
Afterwards, we went over to our family friend's place to pick up some of (about half) of my stuff to move to Toronto. The next day, the family friend dropped off the rest of the stuff (as he had to go to Toronto to pick up his wife from the airport).
Moving ... and other random thoughts
This is the most disjointed move I've ever made anywhere. The good news is that I have found a place to live in a good area with reasonable rent and good location. It's located right near the subway line so I don't have to spend hours commuting to work, thankfully. I hope to learn when I can move into this new place by tomorrow. It's been a while since I've had my own private space.
As for the other two interviews, one was filled internally while the other one was filled with someone who had more experience. So, things did work out in the end.
The weather was overcast, cold and rainy. It was good seeing most of the classmates. One thing they don't tell you about completing your degree ... the final test ... learning how to hold your hood properly, walking on stage the at the right speed, order and manner, and kneeling properly in order to get hooded. It was enough information overload to make us a bit nervous crossing the stage. Thankfully everyone made it safely across the stage.
Afterwards, we went over to our family friend's place to pick up some of (about half) of my stuff to move to Toronto. The next day, the family friend dropped off the rest of the stuff (as he had to go to Toronto to pick up his wife from the airport).
Moving ... and other random thoughts
This is the most disjointed move I've ever made anywhere. The good news is that I have found a place to live in a good area with reasonable rent and good location. It's located right near the subway line so I don't have to spend hours commuting to work, thankfully. I hope to learn when I can move into this new place by tomorrow. It's been a while since I've had my own private space.
As for the other two interviews, one was filled internally while the other one was filled with someone who had more experience. So, things did work out in the end.
Friday, October 13
CBC temporary contract
It seems CBC Toronto is offering me a contract position with them til March 2007 as a media librarian (visual resources). Very cool. Just got the phone call at noon PST while I was in the middle of eating lunch. I'm still waiting to hear back from CBC Regina and CBC Calgary. Hopefully I'll hear something back by Monday before I need to give CBC Toronto an answer. I had nearly given up hope that I'd get any offers. Apparently the full-time permanent position in Toronto was filled internally and the full-time one-year contract position was filled by someone with more experience. And there was this new position that just came up ... so I think that's cool they still wanted to offer me this temp position although I don't have a lot of (er, translation, almost none) experience. However, they were very interested in my education background :D I'd love to work with CBC Toronto ... even if it only goes for a short while.
Friday, September 29
interviews with CBC
Oh my goodness, I'm tired. But, in a good way.
I've had the fortune to be interviewed by CBC. And will have another opportunity for another interview in this upcoming week. For my "dream job" ... er so I think. It sounds quite demanding (well, it is broadcast ...) and quite exciting, too. The unfortunate thing is that these interviews are all conducted by telephone, so it's a bit tricky to read their body language or anything. In some ways, I'm hoping only one job will be offered to me so I don't have a decision to make. In other ways, I'd love to be offered more than one so ... well, it's more of a flattery thing I guess to be offered more than one position!
Anyhow, it's been an interesting experience. They ask really good questions. Mostly behavorial related.
Sigh. I'm anxious to see what's going to come of this experience. Should know some answers by next week (end) or early week after.
I've had the fortune to be interviewed by CBC. And will have another opportunity for another interview in this upcoming week. For my "dream job" ... er so I think. It sounds quite demanding (well, it is broadcast ...) and quite exciting, too. The unfortunate thing is that these interviews are all conducted by telephone, so it's a bit tricky to read their body language or anything. In some ways, I'm hoping only one job will be offered to me so I don't have a decision to make. In other ways, I'd love to be offered more than one so ... well, it's more of a flattery thing I guess to be offered more than one position!
Anyhow, it's been an interesting experience. They ask really good questions. Mostly behavorial related.
Sigh. I'm anxious to see what's going to come of this experience. Should know some answers by next week (end) or early week after.
Friday, September 22
Tickled by Elmo
I can't believe elmo's already a decade old ... TMX Elmo is a funny, but it's a riot when elmo talks with Robert DiNero.
If anyone (adult) talked in third person, it would be creepy, but for some reason, a red, furry monster who does this is considered cute. Who would have thunk he would have such a hit with adults and kids?
If anyone (adult) talked in third person, it would be creepy, but for some reason, a red, furry monster who does this is considered cute. Who would have thunk he would have such a hit with adults and kids?
Wednesday, September 20
Facts for thought
Here's a blog with some really eye-opening facts about the world. Actually, these facts are condensed from the book 50 Facts that should change the world by Jessica Williams, a British television producer/journalist. (I stumbled upon this book on former classmate's blog)
Update on work and other stuff
The website project I've been working on with my sister is now complete (pretty much). It's good to be done. So to celebrate, we're celebrating with some fine dining and an evening at the Vancouver Theatre Sports for some laughs. This set is mocks the American television series "So You Think You Can Dance" (It's called "So You Think You Can Improvise").
Last night, my sister and I visited her former roommate (and a fellow former Regina person). She happened to move into the same building my sister lives. What a small world. We had a great time catching up. The irony is that even though she lives only two floors above us, we can't just go up on the elevator to drop by. These new condos have this system in which you can only go the floor you live or the garage level (where you can dispose of your recyclables and garbage). I realize security is important, but this extreme of security is hindering from any real community from forming within a condo building -- ok, I'll get off my soapbox now :) ).
As for the job front, I'm still applying for positions in Vancouver, Regina (only one or two), Ottawa and Toronto. Today, I noticed there were two positings with CBC Radio Archives (wow, my dream job ... or so I think) in Toronto. *drool*
C'est tout!
Oh yea, I just found out I have an interview with CBC Regina Thurs., Sept. 28 at 7:30 a.m.!
Update on work and other stuff
The website project I've been working on with my sister is now complete (pretty much). It's good to be done. So to celebrate, we're celebrating with some fine dining and an evening at the Vancouver Theatre Sports for some laughs. This set is mocks the American television series "So You Think You Can Dance" (It's called "So You Think You Can Improvise").
Last night, my sister and I visited her former roommate (and a fellow former Regina person). She happened to move into the same building my sister lives. What a small world. We had a great time catching up. The irony is that even though she lives only two floors above us, we can't just go up on the elevator to drop by. These new condos have this system in which you can only go the floor you live or the garage level (where you can dispose of your recyclables and garbage). I realize security is important, but this extreme of security is hindering from any real community from forming within a condo building -- ok, I'll get off my soapbox now :) ).
As for the job front, I'm still applying for positions in Vancouver, Regina (only one or two), Ottawa and Toronto. Today, I noticed there were two positings with CBC Radio Archives (wow, my dream job ... or so I think) in Toronto. *drool*
C'est tout!
Oh yea, I just found out I have an interview with CBC Regina Thurs., Sept. 28 at 7:30 a.m.!
Friday, September 8
vancouver by moonlight
This picture was taken about 5:30 a.m. Normally I'm still sleeping at this time, however, I was abruptly awakened by a very LOUD car alarm (which went off twice!) Since I couldn't fall back a sleep, I noticed the view outside the apartment and was inspired to take some moonlit shots.
Actually, this sort of set the tone for the rest of the day. Thankfully there were no more loud car alarms set off for the rest of the morning. My brain was fried from working on the contract work most of yesterday, so I took a break. I went down to the seawall and wandered around with my camera (took a few shots).
It was a good thing to relax, enjoy Vancouver during its sunny season.
Actually, this sort of set the tone for the rest of the day. Thankfully there were no more loud car alarms set off for the rest of the morning. My brain was fried from working on the contract work most of yesterday, so I took a break. I went down to the seawall and wandered around with my camera (took a few shots).
It was a good thing to relax, enjoy Vancouver during its sunny season.
Monday, September 4
Fabulous foursomes
My sister, Justine, has "tagged" me to fill out the following questions ... so here it is ...
4 places/provinces I've lived:
1. Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Regina, North Battleford, Moose Jaw)
2. Ontario (Ottawa, Toronto, London)
3. Manitoba (Flin Flon)
4. Alberta (Calgary)
4 places I've been on vacation:
1. Vancouver
2. Taiwan
3. Montreal
4. Los Angeles
4 places I still want to see:
1. Paris
2. Europe
3. Hong Kong
4. Australia
4 favourite foods:
1. Japanese/Korean
2. Homemade pizza
3. Tiramisu
4. Green tea flavoured items
4 TV shows I like to watch:
1. CSI (Las Vegas)
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. House
4. Corner Gas
4 movies I could watch over and over:
1. Ever After
2. About Schmidt
3. Rabbit-Proof Fence
4. The Devil Wears Prada
4 jobs I've had:
1. General Reporter/photographer/Lifestyles newspaper editor (yes, that is one job)
2. Cleaning Maid (for one summer)
3. Resume typesetter
4. Junior Information Architect
4 favourite books:
1. Paper Shadows by Wayson Choy
2. What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles
3. Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
4. No Logo by Naomi Klein
4 things I say often:
1. "so and so forth"
2. true
3. I guess
4. that's good
4 places/provinces I've lived:
1. Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Regina, North Battleford, Moose Jaw)
2. Ontario (Ottawa, Toronto, London)
3. Manitoba (Flin Flon)
4. Alberta (Calgary)
4 places I've been on vacation:
1. Vancouver
2. Taiwan
3. Montreal
4. Los Angeles
4 places I still want to see:
1. Paris
2. Europe
3. Hong Kong
4. Australia
4 favourite foods:
1. Japanese/Korean
2. Homemade pizza
3. Tiramisu
4. Green tea flavoured items
4 TV shows I like to watch:
1. CSI (Las Vegas)
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. House
4. Corner Gas
4 movies I could watch over and over:
1. Ever After
2. About Schmidt
3. Rabbit-Proof Fence
4. The Devil Wears Prada
4 jobs I've had:
1. General Reporter/photographer/Lifestyles newspaper editor (yes, that is one job)
2. Cleaning Maid (for one summer)
3. Resume typesetter
4. Junior Information Architect
4 favourite books:
1. Paper Shadows by Wayson Choy
2. What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles
3. Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
4. No Logo by Naomi Klein
4 things I say often:
1. "so and so forth"
2. true
3. I guess
4. that's good
Sunday, September 3
Ever have one of those days?
This weekend, a friend invited me to go to the Taiwanese Cultural Event to watch some Dragon Boat Racing (which was quite exciting!). It was a hot day. After a couple of hours sitting in the sun, we were ready for some frozen treats (fruit bars ... mmm ...) I happened to see this toy hulk in the window of the ice cream truck. It just cracks me up.
Wednesday, August 23
just goofing around
Rachel, Alana and I have a little too much fun after a Sunday dinner in Guelph. Perhaps the delirium has set in. Seriously, we had a blast making funny faces and poses while Alana's sister Lisa documented our silliness.
Saturday, August 19
Friday, August 18
distilling the essence of my life
These days, it's all about minimalism -- especially since I am supposed to be packing everything (or as much as possible) and moving it back to Regina, Sask. Yes, I have somewhat successfully crammed my "essential" documents, clothes, shoes, belongings into two large suitcases, I still have a lot of stuff to sift through and decide if it's worth shipping back out west.
What is considered "indispensable" or "valuable"? As much as I'd like to ship everything, I think I have to be ruthless and take only the bare necessities or things that cannot be replaced (such as photo albums, gifts).
In the meantime, while I am on vacation, I must resist purchasing non-essentials as much as possible, as that means more packing of stuff. :P How much stuff do people need to live?
I would like to read this book (now that I supposedly have some free time): Not Buying It: My Year Without Shopping by Judith Levine. I came across this book while researching, er procrastinating, at Chapters in London, Ontario. I read about three chapters of it. It was quite interesting the withdrawal symptoms she had from not purchasing consumer goods. It was even interesting to read the preface ... in which her and her partner had to prepare for the year of buying nothing ... determining what was essential or consumer good (as in not necessary). She thought wine was a luxury; her husband thought it was essential (just one example).
Even after I get back to Regina, I have to once again pack the bare essentials since I will be heading out to Vancouver for a one-month contract position. Although this is a one-time project, I will be looking for longer-term positions ... (in North America). Speaking of which ... I should work on those applications (one in Vancouver and one in New York ... both which are one-year contracts) ...
What is considered "indispensable" or "valuable"? As much as I'd like to ship everything, I think I have to be ruthless and take only the bare necessities or things that cannot be replaced (such as photo albums, gifts).
In the meantime, while I am on vacation, I must resist purchasing non-essentials as much as possible, as that means more packing of stuff. :P How much stuff do people need to live?
I would like to read this book (now that I supposedly have some free time): Not Buying It: My Year Without Shopping by Judith Levine. I came across this book while researching, er procrastinating, at Chapters in London, Ontario. I read about three chapters of it. It was quite interesting the withdrawal symptoms she had from not purchasing consumer goods. It was even interesting to read the preface ... in which her and her partner had to prepare for the year of buying nothing ... determining what was essential or consumer good (as in not necessary). She thought wine was a luxury; her husband thought it was essential (just one example).
Even after I get back to Regina, I have to once again pack the bare essentials since I will be heading out to Vancouver for a one-month contract position. Although this is a one-time project, I will be looking for longer-term positions ... (in North America). Speaking of which ... I should work on those applications (one in Vancouver and one in New York ... both which are one-year contracts) ...
Wednesday, July 26
The last leg of library school
Five more classes and four more assignments to go until the end of this program.
No update on the job search. There is a job fair for federal library jobs in Ottawa August 16, which I do plan to attend (network, network, network!). I have applied to CBC Toronto for a temporary full-time position too.
And it seems that some Vancouver friends are going to the same wedding I'll be attending in Montreal. What a small world.
This post is rather disjointed, as is the state of my mind these days.
No update on the job search. There is a job fair for federal library jobs in Ottawa August 16, which I do plan to attend (network, network, network!). I have applied to CBC Toronto for a temporary full-time position too.
And it seems that some Vancouver friends are going to the same wedding I'll be attending in Montreal. What a small world.
This post is rather disjointed, as is the state of my mind these days.
Tuesday, June 27
no cbc interview
yesterday, i learned that all the interviews for the cbc position were cancelled ... due to some bureaucratic reason ... or other.
i did, however, get a phone call notifying me about this cancellation. the woman i spoke with seemed very interested in interviewing me ... and said she liked what skills and interests i had on my resume. anyhow, when the job is reposted at the end of the summer, my application will still be considered.
might be better timing in the long run (if i can't find something else ...)
i did, however, get a phone call notifying me about this cancellation. the woman i spoke with seemed very interested in interviewing me ... and said she liked what skills and interests i had on my resume. anyhow, when the job is reposted at the end of the summer, my application will still be considered.
might be better timing in the long run (if i can't find something else ...)
Monday, June 19
cbc interview next wednesday
Well, I guess the CBC interview will happen after all.
It will be at 11 a.m. EST on June 28, 2006. It will be a phone interview, thankfully. That means I don't have to fly out to Regina ... and miss school/work. :D
Just have to get through this week though (four assignments and a presentation ... done three assignments, but need to finish the last one tomorrow).
It will be at 11 a.m. EST on June 28, 2006. It will be a phone interview, thankfully. That means I don't have to fly out to Regina ... and miss school/work. :D
Just have to get through this week though (four assignments and a presentation ... done three assignments, but need to finish the last one tomorrow).
Monday, June 12
a-job hunting we will go
Job-hunting is a great procrastination tool. As is bloggging. :)
Anyhow, I e-mailed my former co-op boss and asked if I could get "bridged" back into the department. Seems like the budget's tight and there's no room for more staff ...
Anyhow, I'm hoping to hear back from CBC Radio as to when I'll have an interview as a "Radio Archivist" position in Regina. This sounds like there's potential (but then again, I'm competing with everyone else in the country).
That's all going on the job-front. Will keep you posted. Ta-ta-for-now.
Anyhow, I e-mailed my former co-op boss and asked if I could get "bridged" back into the department. Seems like the budget's tight and there's no room for more staff ...
Anyhow, I'm hoping to hear back from CBC Radio as to when I'll have an interview as a "Radio Archivist" position in Regina. This sounds like there's potential (but then again, I'm competing with everyone else in the country).
That's all going on the job-front. Will keep you posted. Ta-ta-for-now.
Sunday, June 4
Taking in nature's beauty
London's nickname is "The Forest City" -- and it's very aptly named. There's a historic homestead located nearby where I live. A friend of mine took me there for a walk. It was very serene and ... beautiful. I hope to capture some of this hidden gem and post it on my flickr site.
A few days ago, I was coming back from running errands. I walked along one of the bridges nearby the Thames River when I spotted a young deer taking a cool drink and eating some tree leaves. I stopped and stared at the deer, amazed at how close it was. Later, on my way to campus (for class), I saw a chipmunk! Very cute. Wish I had a camera there and then to capture it. I've never seen a live chipmunk in London (lots of squirrels and groundhogs, though).
Thankfully the past few days have cooled off a bit ... it was roasting last week (including humidex). It's not even officially summer, yet ...
A few days ago, I was coming back from running errands. I walked along one of the bridges nearby the Thames River when I spotted a young deer taking a cool drink and eating some tree leaves. I stopped and stared at the deer, amazed at how close it was. Later, on my way to campus (for class), I saw a chipmunk! Very cute. Wish I had a camera there and then to capture it. I've never seen a live chipmunk in London (lots of squirrels and groundhogs, though).
Thankfully the past few days have cooled off a bit ... it was roasting last week (including humidex). It's not even officially summer, yet ...
Monday, May 29
Moments that make you *cringe*
Ever have those "cringe" moments?
While working on papers this morning, I tuned into "This American Life" - one of my favourite radio documentary shows (which is based out of Chicago).
Last week's theme was the "cringe" moments. You know, when you say something that makes you wince or wish you didn't say it. Basically, foot-in-the-mouth syndrome. When you wish you could turn back time and take back what you said.
Anyhow, it was quite an indepth discourse about this theme. It seems females *love* to revel in such "cringe" stories - especially when it comes to love stories because they can help in the bonding process. As the reporter put it ... "it's almost like a one-upmanship with women. oh you did that for love? Well, i did this. It seems it's not the fact that we females get involved with ridiculous relationships, that the fact that we want to have these relationships. Crazy.
There's also a documentary about the "cringe" factor and how that makes us connect with the characters on reality television. I believe that has some truth. Mind you, some of this cringe factor is manufactured (put a republican woman with a gay
roommate ... and wait for the "cringe" moment). Actually this example just mentioned is the anticipated "cringe" moment ... when you know something will likely happen. Reality television depends on this premise to create even more drama.
"Cringe" moments are opportunities to learn what not to say. On that note, I've had many of these moments ... too numerous to mention ... which could mean I'm learning lots, or not learning from my mistakes.
Saturday, May 27
Happy Birthday Dad!
Thanks for being a great dad, in addition to ...
* patient driving instructor
* math tutor
* listening ear
* financial supporter
* fellow movie buff
* innovative problem solver
I love you!
searching for employment
While I should be working on the two papers due next week, I am concerned about finding employment. This afternoon, I spoke with my mom about job prospects. She asked where I was looking for jobs. I replied, mostly in Canada. She asks if there are jobs in the States. I say, yes, there are lots of library jobs.
Then ...
"Why don't you apply for jobs in Texas?" she asks.
"Why on earth would I want to work in Texas," I think.
It turns out my one of my mom's best friends (and family) live there. Hmmm ... I'd rather stay in Canada to work, to be quite honest. If there is an amazing job out there in the States (or some other country), I'd go for it. I guess I'm more comfortable with working in Canada, since it's all I've really known. My mom's getting me to step outside my comfort zone. Interesting. Aren't parents usually trying to get their kids to move back to their province or city??
Monday, May 22
You've Got Mail
Last night, I happened to catch the opening of "You've Got Mail" - a 1998 film starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Watching the film eight years later, it's interesting to see how things have changed in the world of technology.
The movie begins with quick construction of a virtual model of New York City. It's filmed as if a person was on the computer working on an electronic file. Click. Zoom into a street of New York where Tom Hanks is walking. Click. Zoom into the home of Meg Ryan's home. You get the picture.
Then, this next part ... is quite interesting ... from two perspectives: the technology part and the human behaviour part.
Technology: Meg Ryan's character sits down at her desk and gets her computer connected to the internet through dial-up. Yes, I realize many people in the world still use dial-up, but most households have some form of cable or high-speed internet. I haven't heard the screeching sounds of a modem for quite a while.
Human Behaviour: Actually, both Meg and Tom's characters behave similarily before checking their e-mail. They wait for their respective partners to leave the home and then check the "coast is clear" before they engage in their virtual "affair". The two have never met, but they seem to be skulking around. Also, Meg Ryan's character writes to Tom Hanks about her anticipation to receive his e-mail.
E-mail is still prevelant eight years after the movie was released. However, I think while there is still the anticipation of "Did s/he e-mail?" there's another dimension ... "Is s/he online?" In the mid-1990s (that I'm aware of), there was IRC (Internet Relay Chat). Now, there are more user-friendly programs ... such as MSN, Yahoo Messanger ... and now online dating sites have caught on and put that idea to use.
What happened to the days of "snail mail" (regular letters through an institution called Canada Post)? I remember having penpals as a kid. If I got a piece of mail, it would just make my day! (Note: I think that was the appeal of being part of "The Mailbox Club" - a Sunday-school-like correspondence course for kids.) As an adult, getting any piece of snail mail that isn't a flyer or bill is rare these days, especially in this world that is so heavily reliant on e-mail, faxes and Instant Messaging. Who has the time to pen an old-fashioned letter?
I guess it means that much more when someone does take the time, thought and effort to write something by hand and then walk/drive to the nearest postal outlet (oh yes, and spend the 50-some cents to purchase a stamp).
Saturday, May 20
Blogged out
Is it possible to have too many blogs?
I'm beginning to wonder if I have or am developing multiple personalities. Or maybe just aliases.
The first blog I set up was because a friend of mine raved about livejournal.com . So I obliged and joined so I could read her entries. Then, out of curiosity, I started this blog (so it was a little less focused on library school life) and other random thoughts.
Now, in a class I'm taking on Managing Internet Resources, one of our assignments is to create a blog. I started another blog just for that (I have a feeling it will be full of rants and reflections relating to tech stuff ...)
I guess it is easier to have several blogs to talk specifically about particular topics. I guess each blog is geared to a different audience.
I'm beginning to wonder if I have or am developing multiple personalities. Or maybe just aliases.
The first blog I set up was because a friend of mine raved about livejournal.com . So I obliged and joined so I could read her entries. Then, out of curiosity, I started this blog (so it was a little less focused on library school life) and other random thoughts.
Now, in a class I'm taking on Managing Internet Resources, one of our assignments is to create a blog. I started another blog just for that (I have a feeling it will be full of rants and reflections relating to tech stuff ...)
I guess it is easier to have several blogs to talk specifically about particular topics. I guess each blog is geared to a different audience.
Saturday, May 13
Happy (early) Mother's Day
Tonight, the guest speaker at our church Moira Brown, spoke about "leaving a legacy." Brown actually went to school at Briercrest (Caronport, Sask.) and now works with 100 Huntley Street. She's an amazing speaker and an even nicer person. My friend Deb and I managed to work up the nerve to say hello to her. Brown's 14-year-old daughter performed a dance to a track from the CD Hungry. She apparently choreographed it herself! Very moving performance.
One thing stood out for me from Brown's message: It's now the performance that counts, but the perfume. What kind of fragrance are we sending out to the world? Are we quietly disrupting the world via our fragrance of Christ?
I've only been to this North Park Community Church in London twice now. The church has a HUGE congregation. It's kinda far to bus, but thankfully I have a friend who goes (and has a car). It's a bonus that she lives just across the street. :) It's been a looong time since I've been going to a church somewhat regularly. I've only got a summer left in London, but I still feel God wants me to get plugged in despite the short period of time remaining.
Wednesday, May 10
Happy Birthday Justine!
Just wanted to wish my little sister Justine a happy 30th birthday tomorrow :)
Wow. You're getting old ;)
Wow. You're getting old ;)
Sunday, May 7
Summer full of festivals
Summer is supposed to be the season that's more carefree. And it's the season of festivals. Since this will be the first summer I've ever spent in London, Ontario, I decided to investigate what the community had to offer in terms of festivals. I was very impressed.
There is the Street Painting Performance that features artists who draw in chalk on sidewalks. This first-time event is free! It runs during the first weekend of August.
I've heard great things about the London Balloon Festival It'd be cool to ride a balloon, but I don't have $250 plus PST to do that! This festival is also in early August.
And there is the London Community Players that has a couple of plays this summer, too.
There is the Street Painting Performance that features artists who draw in chalk on sidewalks. This first-time event is free! It runs during the first weekend of August.
I've heard great things about the London Balloon Festival It'd be cool to ride a balloon, but I don't have $250 plus PST to do that! This festival is also in early August.
And there is the London Community Players that has a couple of plays this summer, too.
Tuesday, May 2
Mythbusters
"Please turn off all electronic devices including cell phones, walkmans and laptops during take-off and landing."
This is a typical announcement made while a plane is preparing for take-off or landing. But do electronic devices, especially cell phones, really interfere with airplane instrumentation and communication systems?
While travelling back from Vancouver to Ottawa on WestJet, I happened to come across the show Mythbusters on The Learning Channel. The mythbusters team was addressing this question. They built a box to test out this theory. They used various bandwiths. They found that a cell phone that was turned on didn't interfere with the instrumentation readings. However, if the cell phone was used (i.e. received or transmitted a call), this did interfere with the airplane instrumentation. That means the pilot wouldn't have accurate information and readings to know where he was flying (think Die Hard 3, I think).
However, the Mythbusters crew then wanted to test it in an actual aircraft in flight, but to do this was against federal law. The team were fortunate to have one pilot agree to let them test their theory (but while they were on the ground, of course). This airplane used was very high-tech and had protection to shield the plane's instruments from other electronics' frequencies and influences. So, this experiment showed that cell phones of varying bandwiths did NOT affect the plane's instrument readings at all.
So, in conclusion, the team thought this myth was busted. They were frustrated that they really couldn't test this myth in the air. However, they did wonder why airlines still asked people to turn off all electronic devices even though it seems this myth isn't true. Conclusion? Well, it's better to be safe than sorry (especially with all those new models of cell phones coming out ... you never know which one could cause problems).
This is a typical announcement made while a plane is preparing for take-off or landing. But do electronic devices, especially cell phones, really interfere with airplane instrumentation and communication systems?
While travelling back from Vancouver to Ottawa on WestJet, I happened to come across the show Mythbusters on The Learning Channel. The mythbusters team was addressing this question. They built a box to test out this theory. They used various bandwiths. They found that a cell phone that was turned on didn't interfere with the instrumentation readings. However, if the cell phone was used (i.e. received or transmitted a call), this did interfere with the airplane instrumentation. That means the pilot wouldn't have accurate information and readings to know where he was flying (think Die Hard 3, I think).
However, the Mythbusters crew then wanted to test it in an actual aircraft in flight, but to do this was against federal law. The team were fortunate to have one pilot agree to let them test their theory (but while they were on the ground, of course). This airplane used was very high-tech and had protection to shield the plane's instruments from other electronics' frequencies and influences. So, this experiment showed that cell phones of varying bandwiths did NOT affect the plane's instrument readings at all.
So, in conclusion, the team thought this myth was busted. They were frustrated that they really couldn't test this myth in the air. However, they did wonder why airlines still asked people to turn off all electronic devices even though it seems this myth isn't true. Conclusion? Well, it's better to be safe than sorry (especially with all those new models of cell phones coming out ... you never know which one could cause problems).
Saturday, April 29
High School Drama
No, I'm not having a nightmare about waking up as a high school student (although that would be pretty scary!) I went to see my cousin's play tonight called "Lucky Stiff". My cousin wasn't in the play ... she helped with make-up. Nonetheless, it was an entertaining and well-done performance.
The quality and calibre of the students' performance was quite good. Tonight was the last performance ... so my cousin went to the cast party to celebrate their success. Here's just one shot of the night. :) (see above)
The behind the scenes people are just as important as those who perform onstage. It's easy to forget about these "invisible", but without them, the show wouldn't go on. In a way, librarians tend to be unsung heroes since no one really knows what they do!
Casting back to an assignment (interview) I had to do in first term, I remember learning how ignorant people were of what librarians and information specialists really do. And there's a belief out there that librarians know everything ... which we apparently are supposed to work to keep up that belief ;) I don't know everything, but I am willing to learn ways to track down information. Maybe librarians are just detectives in disguise as mild-mannered folks.
Job search begins ...
Well, it seems the search for a job begins ... and people are sending postings! My dad just emailed me a Legislative Librarian posting today. That job would be in Regina, of course. Hmmm ... I think I get the impression my parents want me back in Saskatchewan. :)
Anyhow, I stumbled across a posting on the BCLA for a librarian job in China. Sounds like it's a new school that's opening ... and the librarian will help set up the resource centre. Sounds rather adventurous. I've sent in my application on a whim ... that would be exciting to travel and live in China ... maybe learn some Mandarin.
Gotta go catch a musical (by my cousin Jo's school!)
Anyhow, I stumbled across a posting on the BCLA for a librarian job in China. Sounds like it's a new school that's opening ... and the librarian will help set up the resource centre. Sounds rather adventurous. I've sent in my application on a whim ... that would be exciting to travel and live in China ... maybe learn some Mandarin.
Gotta go catch a musical (by my cousin Jo's school!)
Friday, April 21
Taking the plunge
Some days I feel like this little duck. I'm not sure what's going to happen, and I'm not sure I have the guts to find out. There's a saying that refers to ducks (something like adapting or adjusting to a new habit ... like ducks to water). This week, I'll be meeting with several people from the Vancouver Public Library. I'm not sure if I'm ready to take the plunge into the library work world, let alone a public library.
The public library environment does sound appealing. There's the 'jackie of all trades' element ... this is great for providing a variety of tasks (ie not get into a rut) and the patrons come from all walks of life! Maybe it would be a good idea to take the Storytelling course ... just in case. :) Maybe I'll be ready to take the plunge into the library world by the end of this summer term.
Monday, April 17
art of language
Some of my relatives have been glued to their television screen watching a Chinese mini-series on DVD. Out of sheer boredom and a pinch of curiousity, I have joined to watch bits and pieces of this long dramatic series. This series is performed in Cantonese, technically the first language I was taught by my parents. (English eventually became my more dominant language).
While I was watching the show, I understood the drift of what was going on ... to some degree ... with my meagre vocabulary. Thankfully my relatives are patient enough to explain what certain words or phrases mean if I do ask.
Somehow, this sparked a further discussion about the basis and cultural context of the language. An angry actor insulted another actor (in the series) by using a very graphic metaphor. He could have said, "You have nothing." But he said it in a way that was condescending and insulting. Unfortunately I don't recall the exact imagry, but it was like saying, "You only have the clothes on your back." My wise relative then went on to say that since the Chinese use lots of imagry and metaphors, the langauge is great for writing poetry.
It's amazing how such the tool of language, no matter what it is, can be used for destruction and demoralization or encouragement and edification.
While I was watching the show, I understood the drift of what was going on ... to some degree ... with my meagre vocabulary. Thankfully my relatives are patient enough to explain what certain words or phrases mean if I do ask.
Somehow, this sparked a further discussion about the basis and cultural context of the language. An angry actor insulted another actor (in the series) by using a very graphic metaphor. He could have said, "You have nothing." But he said it in a way that was condescending and insulting. Unfortunately I don't recall the exact imagry, but it was like saying, "You only have the clothes on your back." My wise relative then went on to say that since the Chinese use lots of imagry and metaphors, the langauge is great for writing poetry.
It's amazing how such the tool of language, no matter what it is, can be used for destruction and demoralization or encouragement and edification.
Saturday, April 8
It just hit me today.
In four months, I'll be done my Master's of Library and Information Science.
Translation: time to re-emerge into the work world after a two-year hiatus in an academic setting. I don't like that feeling of ... uncertainty. Maybe it's something to do with being a bit of control freak (kinda). There's a security knowing things will be done a particular way at regular intervals, like clockwork. Almost mindless. On the flip side, not knowning what will happen after completing courses is adventurous. Who knows what job will take me where doing what? Could be anywhere.
It'll be such a bittersweet moment when this chapter of my life is completed. I've met lots of helpful people (it seems it could be a hidden requirement to entering this profession!), some really interesting characters and made a few close friends.
In four months, I'll be done my Master's of Library and Information Science.
Translation: time to re-emerge into the work world after a two-year hiatus in an academic setting. I don't like that feeling of ... uncertainty. Maybe it's something to do with being a bit of control freak (kinda). There's a security knowing things will be done a particular way at regular intervals, like clockwork. Almost mindless. On the flip side, not knowning what will happen after completing courses is adventurous. Who knows what job will take me where doing what? Could be anywhere.
It'll be such a bittersweet moment when this chapter of my life is completed. I've met lots of helpful people (it seems it could be a hidden requirement to entering this profession!), some really interesting characters and made a few close friends.
Wednesday, April 5
folksonomies or taxonomies
This morning in descriptive cataloging class, we had an interesting discussion about whether or not access points should be centralized and regulated or left up to the users to provide. Access points are various methods people can find things, like author, title, subject or keyword in a library catalog system.
Flickr uses "folksonomy" (make up your own classification system) where as librarians use taxonomies (centralized and controlled classication system).
This discussion came up when the prof brought up the online platforms such as flickr.com. Flickr allows the people to "tag" or categorize their own pictures they have mounted on the web. For complete control freaks (as most librarians tend to be), this system which allows everyone to tag according to their own interests and needs would be a nightmare. However, there is a theory that the more people who do tag their own pictures, the more likely a pattern will emerge in what tags are popularly used.
Our prof explored this idea: What is valued more? The fact that there is complete access (all aspects, from author, subject, date of publication, and so on) be provided and maybe a handful of people know how to search and find relevant information, or, the fact that people categorize their own things and maybe 80 per cent of the people will find what they need (80 per cent is a random number ... essentially not everyone will find what they need)?
Some good food for thought.
Flickr uses "folksonomy" (make up your own classification system) where as librarians use taxonomies (centralized and controlled classication system).
This discussion came up when the prof brought up the online platforms such as flickr.com. Flickr allows the people to "tag" or categorize their own pictures they have mounted on the web. For complete control freaks (as most librarians tend to be), this system which allows everyone to tag according to their own interests and needs would be a nightmare. However, there is a theory that the more people who do tag their own pictures, the more likely a pattern will emerge in what tags are popularly used.
Our prof explored this idea: What is valued more? The fact that there is complete access (all aspects, from author, subject, date of publication, and so on) be provided and maybe a handful of people know how to search and find relevant information, or, the fact that people categorize their own things and maybe 80 per cent of the people will find what they need (80 per cent is a random number ... essentially not everyone will find what they need)?
Some good food for thought.
Monday, April 3
Nearing the end
It 10 days, all the assignments will be done. For this semester. Then it's only one more semester of school before heading out into the big, bad, scary world!
While going back to school has been a great learning and growing experience, I do remember the terrible dread of looking for work upon graduation. Many of my classmates are searching for jobs. Some have landed their jobs already with the federal government or some corporation. Wow.
This time around (my third degree), I'm not quite as worried. I'm just so ready to find a place and settle down. Enough of moving around. Wow. When I was younger, I thought I'd want a career in which I could travel around the world, meet inspiring people, you know, the glamourous life. Now, that doesn't seem so appealing to me. Settling down, growing some roots isn't such a bad idea.
Does that mean I'm growing up?
While going back to school has been a great learning and growing experience, I do remember the terrible dread of looking for work upon graduation. Many of my classmates are searching for jobs. Some have landed their jobs already with the federal government or some corporation. Wow.
This time around (my third degree), I'm not quite as worried. I'm just so ready to find a place and settle down. Enough of moving around. Wow. When I was younger, I thought I'd want a career in which I could travel around the world, meet inspiring people, you know, the glamourous life. Now, that doesn't seem so appealing to me. Settling down, growing some roots isn't such a bad idea.
Does that mean I'm growing up?
Tuesday, March 21
aftermath of essay writing
blurry-eyed and throbbing head, i am
after a sleepless night agonizing over
definitions, concepts, examples
meta-this, meta-that, metadata
all about this, all about that
does it matter what it's all about it
after all is said and done?
after a sleepless night agonizing over
definitions, concepts, examples
meta-this, meta-that, metadata
all about this, all about that
does it matter what it's all about it
after all is said and done?
Saturday, January 28
happy chinese new year
it's all going to the dogs ... well, figurately speaking.
this year, according to the chinese zodiac, it's the year of the dog.
this year, according to the chinese zodiac, it's the year of the dog.
Thursday, January 26
reflections on the 2006 election
it's now been five days since the canadian public elected a conservative minority government into office. considering it was a winter election (and there have only been five ever held in the winter, according to elections canada), i wondered how the turnout fared. compared to last election (june 2004), it was up by five per cent (65 per cent for 2006). i kinda suspected this might be the case in light of the gomery report and the investigation by the rcmp of finance minister ralph goodale (and people just wanting a change in govt!)
while some this protest vote brought in a minority government, there's that question ... will they survive? or will they fall in a matter of months or a couple of years (again)? cbc pointed out the last time the tories had a minority government (joe clark and kim campbell), they didn't weather the political climate so well.
at about midnight of election night, when i was checking the incoming results on the web. i saw a news story on paul martin stepping down as the leader of the liberal party. it seems like paul's an all or nothing kinda of person. or is it that he's not a gracious loser?
meanwhile, it's interesting to see how outsiders (for example, our neighbors down south) think of us; for example michael moore.
while some this protest vote brought in a minority government, there's that question ... will they survive? or will they fall in a matter of months or a couple of years (again)? cbc pointed out the last time the tories had a minority government (joe clark and kim campbell), they didn't weather the political climate so well.
at about midnight of election night, when i was checking the incoming results on the web. i saw a news story on paul martin stepping down as the leader of the liberal party. it seems like paul's an all or nothing kinda of person. or is it that he's not a gracious loser?
meanwhile, it's interesting to see how outsiders (for example, our neighbors down south) think of us; for example michael moore.
Sunday, January 1
destined to be an observer?
this weekend, i had the luxury of wandering aimlessly in a bookstore. a dangerous thing, i tell you, when i'm starving to sink my teeth in an engrossing book. it's especially dangerous when it's boxing week sale at chapters. i spotted amy tan's "The Opposite of Fate: A Book of Musings." i really didn't need to buy any more books, so thank goodness my rationale part of my brain thought ... why not just borrow the book from the library?
i'm done about a quarter of the book of amy tan's memoirs. amy tan moved a lot of times in her childhood, changed lots of schools and had a mother who liked to "scare her straight" (that's my inference). isolation or alienation seems to be a common theme of great or notable writers. she expresses this process of being alone or alienated as painful, but beneficial, in the writing process. she does say that this alienation is not a prerequisite for producing good writing.
as a former "writer" of non-fiction (aka news), i identified with amy tan's comments on the relationship of alienation and writers. ever since i was little, i've pretty much adopted the viewpoint of an observer. i kept journals throughout high school and university (paper version before blogs were in use) maybe it was a coping mechanism for moving eight or nine times by the time i was 14 years old. or attending five different schools by the time i hit grade 5.
being alone allows writers to have the physical, mental and emotional space to mull over random tangents or think through ideas and their premises and implications. alone time is so precious when synthesizing life experiences and mental processes ... to attempt to make sense or explain things. this seems rather obvious, but there's a paradox: in order to produce a work that has somewhat universal appeal, the writer must retreat into alienation in order to craft the nuances and details of the story.
i'm done about a quarter of the book of amy tan's memoirs. amy tan moved a lot of times in her childhood, changed lots of schools and had a mother who liked to "scare her straight" (that's my inference). isolation or alienation seems to be a common theme of great or notable writers. she expresses this process of being alone or alienated as painful, but beneficial, in the writing process. she does say that this alienation is not a prerequisite for producing good writing.
as a former "writer" of non-fiction (aka news), i identified with amy tan's comments on the relationship of alienation and writers. ever since i was little, i've pretty much adopted the viewpoint of an observer. i kept journals throughout high school and university (paper version before blogs were in use) maybe it was a coping mechanism for moving eight or nine times by the time i was 14 years old. or attending five different schools by the time i hit grade 5.
being alone allows writers to have the physical, mental and emotional space to mull over random tangents or think through ideas and their premises and implications. alone time is so precious when synthesizing life experiences and mental processes ... to attempt to make sense or explain things. this seems rather obvious, but there's a paradox: in order to produce a work that has somewhat universal appeal, the writer must retreat into alienation in order to craft the nuances and details of the story.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)