Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
Management Lessons
Lesson No.1
A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day.A small rabbit saw the crow, and asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?"
The crow answered: " Sure, why not."
So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.
Management Lesson: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high up.
Lesson No.2
A turkey was chatting with a bull. "I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree," sighed the turkey, "but I haven't got the energy." "Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?" replied the bull. "They're packed with nutrients." The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it actually gave him enough strength to reach the first branch of the tree.The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fortnight, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree.
Soon he was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.
Management Lesson: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.
Lesson No.3
When the body was first made, all the parts wanted to be Boss. The brain said, "I should be Boss because I control the whole body's responses and functions." The feet said, " We should be Boss as we carry the brain about and get him to where he wants to go." The hands said, "We should be the Boss because we do all the work and earn all the money." And so it went on and on with the heart, the lungs and the eyes until finally the asshole spoke up. All the parts laughed at the idea of the asshole being the Boss. So the asshole went on strike, blocked itself up and refused to work. Within a short time the eyes became crossed, the hands clenched, the feet twitched, the heart and lungs began to panic and the brain fevered.Eventually they all decided that the asshole should be the Boss.
Management Lesson: You don't need brains to be a Boss - any asshole will do.
Lesson No.4
A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold, the bird froze and fell to the ground in a large field. While it was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on it. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung,it began to realize how warm it was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him!
Management Lesson:
1) Not everyone who drops shit on you is your enemy.
2) Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.
3) And when you're in deep shit, keep your mouth shut!
A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day.A small rabbit saw the crow, and asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?"
The crow answered: " Sure, why not."
So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.
Management Lesson: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high up.
Lesson No.2
A turkey was chatting with a bull. "I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree," sighed the turkey, "but I haven't got the energy." "Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?" replied the bull. "They're packed with nutrients." The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it actually gave him enough strength to reach the first branch of the tree.The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fortnight, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree.
Soon he was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.
Management Lesson: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.
Lesson No.3
When the body was first made, all the parts wanted to be Boss. The brain said, "I should be Boss because I control the whole body's responses and functions." The feet said, " We should be Boss as we carry the brain about and get him to where he wants to go." The hands said, "We should be the Boss because we do all the work and earn all the money." And so it went on and on with the heart, the lungs and the eyes until finally the asshole spoke up. All the parts laughed at the idea of the asshole being the Boss. So the asshole went on strike, blocked itself up and refused to work. Within a short time the eyes became crossed, the hands clenched, the feet twitched, the heart and lungs began to panic and the brain fevered.Eventually they all decided that the asshole should be the Boss.
Management Lesson: You don't need brains to be a Boss - any asshole will do.
Lesson No.4
A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold, the bird froze and fell to the ground in a large field. While it was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on it. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung,it began to realize how warm it was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him!
Management Lesson:
1) Not everyone who drops shit on you is your enemy.
2) Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.
3) And when you're in deep shit, keep your mouth shut!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Friday, November 6, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Herbert Nitsch no limit : 214m - June 14, 2007
No Limit (NLT)
The freediver descends with the help of a ballast weight and ascends via a method of his choice. No limit is the absolute depth discipline. Going down with a sled, and going back up with a balloon, a diving suit or a vest with inflatable compartments, or whatever other means.
Martin Stepanek new FIM freediving world record - 110m - 23.05.09
Free Immersion (FIM)
The freediver dives under water without the use of propulsion equipment, but only by pulling on the rope during descent and ascent. Free immersion is the sportive depth discipline with the purest sensations, because of the speed of the water in the body, and the power of each pull on the rope as only mean of propulsion. Performances could be done the head first during the descent, or the feet first, depending equalization facilities of each freedivers… Some of them also even use mixed solutions.
William Trubridge - CNF freediving world record 88m - April 10, 2009
AIDA Record Book
Constant Weight Without Fins (CNF)
The freediver descends and ascends under water using only his own muscle strenght, without the use of propulsion equipment and without pulling on the rope. Constant weight without fins is the most difficult sportive depth discipline, because of absolutely no propulsing material to go down in the water. This category needs a perfect coordination between propulsing movments, equalization, technique and buoyancy.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Ask Dr. Dong
Source: Unknown (would be more than happy to add it, if anyone happens to know)
Ask Doctor Dong:
Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ..... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it.. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.
Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!
Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.
And remember:
'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming 'WOO HOO, What a Ride'
AND.....
For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.
1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
CONCLUSION
Eat and drink what you like.
Speaking English is apparently what kills you.
Ask Doctor Dong:
Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ..... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it.. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.
Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!
Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.
And remember:
'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming 'WOO HOO, What a Ride'
AND.....
For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.
1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
CONCLUSION
Eat and drink what you like.
Speaking English is apparently what kills you.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Kevin Spacey - Inside The Actor's Studio
It was a delight to see Kevin Spacey at the studio. Obviously very hardworking. Very aggressive and creative in pursuing his goals. Multi-talented. His impeccable impersonations demonstrated his keen observation and the skills of an actor. He did a bit of tap dancing that was rarely seen and pretty impressive.
An actor who can do theatre is a great actor - since there is only one take and you have to do it right night after night. Kevin Spacey can do both.
Quotes:
"Don't judge the character (act it instead)...let the audience judge."
In closing out, he said,
"To want, and to be ambitious, and to want to be successful, is not enough. That’s just desire. To know what you want, to understand why you are doing it, to dedicate every breath in your body to achieve. If you feel you have something to give, if you feel that you particular talent is worth developing and is worth caring for, then there is nothing you can’t achieve."
Salute!
An actor who can do theatre is a great actor - since there is only one take and you have to do it right night after night. Kevin Spacey can do both.
Quotes:
"Don't judge the character (act it instead)...let the audience judge."
In closing out, he said,
"To want, and to be ambitious, and to want to be successful, is not enough. That’s just desire. To know what you want, to understand why you are doing it, to dedicate every breath in your body to achieve. If you feel you have something to give, if you feel that you particular talent is worth developing and is worth caring for, then there is nothing you can’t achieve."
Salute!
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Perfect English School
His English is fine grammar wise. But the delivery is like prequel to v1 of text-to-speech software.
Welcome to the robot world!
Welcome to the robot world!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The Lie Detector
Lie Detector Robot - Joke
"One day Jack's dad bought a robot. The robot was special in that it could detect a lie and would slap the person who lied on the face. Jack returned late from school that day and his dad asked him, "Son why are you late from school?".
Jack answered, "Dad we had extra classes today". Much to his astonishment the Robot jumped up and slapped Jack on his face.
His dad told him, this robot is special in that he can detect a lie and will then slap the person who lied now come on tell me the truth, " Why are you late?"
"Dad I went to my friend's house."
Which friend?
"David"
Splatt... Jack got a tight slap on the face from the robot.
"No dad honestly I went for the movie with my girl friend."
"Shame on you son when I was your age I never used to watch movies after school." Splatt, the dad gets a tight slap on the face from the robot. Hearing all this, Jack's mother comes walking out of the kitchen saying, "After all he is your son, he will be like you".
The robot steps up and gives a resounding slap on Jack's mothers face :-)
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
How Was TV Invented
Here is an older one from Dave Barry, just love the way he delivers it.
"I'm a big fan of technology. Most guys are. This is why all the important inventions were invented by guys.
For example, millions of years ago, there was no such thing as the wheel. One day, some primitive guys were watching their wives drag a dead mastodon to the food-preparation area. It was exhausting work; the guys were getting tired just WATCHING.
Then they noticed some large, smooth, rounded stones, and they had an idea: They could sit on the stones and watch! This was the first in a series of breakthroughs that ultimately led to television."
"I'm a big fan of technology. Most guys are. This is why all the important inventions were invented by guys.
For example, millions of years ago, there was no such thing as the wheel. One day, some primitive guys were watching their wives drag a dead mastodon to the food-preparation area. It was exhausting work; the guys were getting tired just WATCHING.
Then they noticed some large, smooth, rounded stones, and they had an idea: They could sit on the stones and watch! This was the first in a series of breakthroughs that ultimately led to television."
A Serious Talk
I just dug up my desk calendar of Classic Dave Barry I brought back from my previous job. And obviously I fell behind. Here is one from March 1:
"The other day my son and I were talking, and the subject of women came up, and I realized that it was time he and I had a Serious Talk. That's the talk every father should have with his son; and yet, far too often, we fathers avoid the subject, because it's so awkward. The subject I am referring to is: buying gifts for women. This is an area where many men do not have a clue. Exhibit A was my father, who was a very thoughtful man, but who once gave my mother, on their anniversary, the following token of his love, his commitment, and - yes - his passion for her: an electric blanket."
"The other day my son and I were talking, and the subject of women came up, and I realized that it was time he and I had a Serious Talk. That's the talk every father should have with his son; and yet, far too often, we fathers avoid the subject, because it's so awkward. The subject I am referring to is: buying gifts for women. This is an area where many men do not have a clue. Exhibit A was my father, who was a very thoughtful man, but who once gave my mother, on their anniversary, the following token of his love, his commitment, and - yes - his passion for her: an electric blanket."
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
中国电影第一坏小子孙红雷
孙红雷 (南方人物周刊)
《梅兰芳》上映前，约孙红雷的采访3年，一直被以各种各样的理由拒绝，直到《梅兰芳》宣传期，他才答应了。有这样经历的，并不是一两家媒体，央视某著名访谈类节目，主持人还是孙红雷的哥们儿，待遇也一样。为此，“哥们儿有些不爽，说我约你那么久都不答应，为宣传《梅兰芳》你才来。”
有人调侃，“那段时间孙红雷相当亢奋，逢记者便说重复了很多遍的话，也不嫌烦，都是为《梅兰芳》。”
《梅兰芳》落幕后，孙红雷又开始和媒体保持距离。“《潜伏》发布会时，孙红雷方面再三叮嘱，现场严禁问私人问题，发布会后不接受专访，只接受20多分钟的群访。”有记者直接问他的经纪人道，“孙红雷是否已大腕到不需要媒体宣传？”不可否认，《潜伏》一轮接一轮的热播，让孙红雷的人气指数不断上涨。
“我主要的工作是拿出作品来，有作品才有脸见媒体才有话可说，不然说什么呀？我受不了我没什么事就在媒体上出现，装模作样做所谓的宣传。”这是孙红雷的说法。
长了个土匪样， 骨子里是知识分子
知识分子邱如白、地下党员余则成、正在播放的电视剧《人间正道是沧桑》里的军人杨立青，这些角色，与孙红雷赖以树立起演艺界地位的黑社会老大角色相去甚远。
但你看着孙红雷的脸，似乎就看到了一个颇为凶险的江湖。“我不说话、不笑时看起来有点狠，所以周围人都不让我留寸头，还必须得戴着眼镜。”他称之为“装修”。起先是为大家的心情，时间长了也就习惯了。
“生活中我其实挺细腻、挺居家的，有时比女人还女人。有的影迷在街上看见我，跟了大半条街也不敢上来要签名，可能之前的角色给大家留下了很凶狠的印象。”
Follow the link for more.
《梅兰芳》上映前，约孙红雷的采访3年，一直被以各种各样的理由拒绝，直到《梅兰芳》宣传期，他才答应了。有这样经历的，并不是一两家媒体，央视某著名访谈类节目，主持人还是孙红雷的哥们儿，待遇也一样。为此，“哥们儿有些不爽，说我约你那么久都不答应，为宣传《梅兰芳》你才来。”
有人调侃，“那段时间孙红雷相当亢奋，逢记者便说重复了很多遍的话，也不嫌烦，都是为《梅兰芳》。”
《梅兰芳》落幕后，孙红雷又开始和媒体保持距离。“《潜伏》发布会时，孙红雷方面再三叮嘱，现场严禁问私人问题，发布会后不接受专访，只接受20多分钟的群访。”有记者直接问他的经纪人道，“孙红雷是否已大腕到不需要媒体宣传？”不可否认，《潜伏》一轮接一轮的热播，让孙红雷的人气指数不断上涨。
“我主要的工作是拿出作品来，有作品才有脸见媒体才有话可说，不然说什么呀？我受不了我没什么事就在媒体上出现，装模作样做所谓的宣传。”这是孙红雷的说法。
长了个土匪样， 骨子里是知识分子
知识分子邱如白、地下党员余则成、正在播放的电视剧《人间正道是沧桑》里的军人杨立青，这些角色，与孙红雷赖以树立起演艺界地位的黑社会老大角色相去甚远。
但你看着孙红雷的脸，似乎就看到了一个颇为凶险的江湖。“我不说话、不笑时看起来有点狠，所以周围人都不让我留寸头，还必须得戴着眼镜。”他称之为“装修”。起先是为大家的心情，时间长了也就习惯了。
“生活中我其实挺细腻、挺居家的，有时比女人还女人。有的影迷在街上看见我，跟了大半条街也不敢上来要签名，可能之前的角色给大家留下了很凶狠的印象。”
Follow the link for more.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Friday, June 5, 2009
Extreme Pen Spinning
Japan is the origin of lots of cool stuff, least of which is Wii.
Even a kid in Bangkok can do it. What are you waiting for?
Here is a tutorial
Even a kid in Bangkok can do it. What are you waiting for?
Here is a tutorial
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Yo-Yo Ma
I love Yo-yo Ma. He is one of my celebrity run-ins in NYC. I remember it was in Sony Plaza on Madison at 56th. He was sitting in the atrium with, I presume, his assistant before a meeting. I immediately rushed into the Sony store to get a copy of his CD and tried to get an autograph. Got stuck at the register and by the time I came out, he was just on the way to the elevator. A near miss.
In this clip, he looks like a warrior.
My favorite album: Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone
One of the technical numbers.
In this clip, he looks like a warrior.
My favorite album: Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone
One of the technical numbers.
Top 10 Dumbest Sarah Palin Quotes
Idiotic Quotes by Republican Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin
By Daniel Kurtzman, About.com
1. "As Putin rears his head and comes into the air space of the United States of America, where– where do they go? It's Alaska. It's just right over the border." --Sarah Palin, explaining why Alaska's proximity to Russia gives her foreign policy experience, interview with CBS's Katie Couric, Sept. 24, 2008 (Watch video clip)
2. "We believe that the best of America is not all in Washington, D.C. ... We believe that the best of America is in these small towns that we get to visit, and in these wonderful little pockets of what I call the real America, being here with all of you hard working very patriotic, um, very, um, pro-America areas of this great nation." --Sarah Palin, speaking at a fundraiser in Greensoboro, N.C., Oct. 16, 2008
3. "Ohh, good, thank you, yes." --Sarah Palin, after a notorious Canadian prank caller complimented her on the documentary about her life, Hustler's "Nailin Paylin," Nov. 1, 2008 (Read more about the prank call, watch the video and see the transcript)
4. "Well, let's see. There's ― of course in the great history of America there have been rulings that there's never going to be absolute consensus by every American, and there are those issues, again, like Roe v. Wade, where I believe are best held on a state level and addressed there. So, you know, going through the history of America, there would be others but ―" --Sarah Palin, unable to name a Supreme Court decision she disagreed with other than Roe vs. Wade, interview with Katie Couric, CBS News, Oct. 1, 2008 (Watch video clip)
5. "All of 'em, any of 'em that have been in front of me over all these years." --Sarah Palin, unable to name a single newspaper or magazine she reads, interview with Katie Couric, CBS News, Oct. 1, 2008 (Watch video clip)
6. "They are also building schools for the Afghan children so that there is hope and opportunity in our neighboring country of Afghanistan." --Sarah Palin, speaking at a fundraiser in San Francisco, Oct. 5, 2008
7. "[T]hey're in charge of the U.S. Senate so if they want to they can really get in there with the senators and make a lot of good policy changes that will make life better for Brandon and his family and his classroom." --Sarah Palin, getting the vice president's constitutional role wrong after being asked by a third grader what the vice president does, interview with NBC affiliate KUSA in Colorado, Oct. 21, 2008 (Watch video clip)
8. "I told the Congress, 'Thanks, but no thanks,' on that Bridge to Nowhere." –Sarah Palin, who was for the Bridge to Nowhere before she was against it
9. "If [the media] convince enough voters that that is negative campaigning, for me to call Barack Obama out on his associations then I don't know what the future of our country would be in terms of First Amendment rights and our ability to ask questions without fear of attacks by the mainstream media." --Sarah Palin, getting First Amendment rights backwards while suggesting that criticism of her is unconstitutional, radio interview with WMAL-AM, Oct. 31, 2008
10. "I'm the mayor, I can do whatever I want until the courts tell me I can't.'" --Sarah Palin, as quoted by former City Council Member Nick Carney, after he raised objections about the $50,000 she spent renovating the mayor's office without approval of the city council
~Compiled by Daniel Kurtzman
By Daniel Kurtzman, About.com
1. "As Putin rears his head and comes into the air space of the United States of America, where– where do they go? It's Alaska. It's just right over the border." --Sarah Palin, explaining why Alaska's proximity to Russia gives her foreign policy experience, interview with CBS's Katie Couric, Sept. 24, 2008 (Watch video clip)
2. "We believe that the best of America is not all in Washington, D.C. ... We believe that the best of America is in these small towns that we get to visit, and in these wonderful little pockets of what I call the real America, being here with all of you hard working very patriotic, um, very, um, pro-America areas of this great nation." --Sarah Palin, speaking at a fundraiser in Greensoboro, N.C., Oct. 16, 2008
3. "Ohh, good, thank you, yes." --Sarah Palin, after a notorious Canadian prank caller complimented her on the documentary about her life, Hustler's "Nailin Paylin," Nov. 1, 2008 (Read more about the prank call, watch the video and see the transcript)
4. "Well, let's see. There's ― of course in the great history of America there have been rulings that there's never going to be absolute consensus by every American, and there are those issues, again, like Roe v. Wade, where I believe are best held on a state level and addressed there. So, you know, going through the history of America, there would be others but ―" --Sarah Palin, unable to name a Supreme Court decision she disagreed with other than Roe vs. Wade, interview with Katie Couric, CBS News, Oct. 1, 2008 (Watch video clip)
5. "All of 'em, any of 'em that have been in front of me over all these years." --Sarah Palin, unable to name a single newspaper or magazine she reads, interview with Katie Couric, CBS News, Oct. 1, 2008 (Watch video clip)
6. "They are also building schools for the Afghan children so that there is hope and opportunity in our neighboring country of Afghanistan." --Sarah Palin, speaking at a fundraiser in San Francisco, Oct. 5, 2008
7. "[T]hey're in charge of the U.S. Senate so if they want to they can really get in there with the senators and make a lot of good policy changes that will make life better for Brandon and his family and his classroom." --Sarah Palin, getting the vice president's constitutional role wrong after being asked by a third grader what the vice president does, interview with NBC affiliate KUSA in Colorado, Oct. 21, 2008 (Watch video clip)
8. "I told the Congress, 'Thanks, but no thanks,' on that Bridge to Nowhere." –Sarah Palin, who was for the Bridge to Nowhere before she was against it
9. "If [the media] convince enough voters that that is negative campaigning, for me to call Barack Obama out on his associations then I don't know what the future of our country would be in terms of First Amendment rights and our ability to ask questions without fear of attacks by the mainstream media." --Sarah Palin, getting First Amendment rights backwards while suggesting that criticism of her is unconstitutional, radio interview with WMAL-AM, Oct. 31, 2008
10. "I'm the mayor, I can do whatever I want until the courts tell me I can't.'" --Sarah Palin, as quoted by former City Council Member Nick Carney, after he raised objections about the $50,000 she spent renovating the mayor's office without approval of the city council
~Compiled by Daniel Kurtzman
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
The Watch - Christopher Walken
This is the best rendition of the impersonation of Christopher Walken - "the Watch" from Australian TV - the "Wedge". Very creative and very funny.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
ADAM WADE Live: NBC Page for Conan O'Brien
I have been listening to The Moth podcast - real people telling real life stories. Quite interesting. This is one of the early ones I heard when I started and obviously I found it on the tube.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Inside the Actor's Studio Benicio Del Toro
I came to know Del Toro from his role in "The Usual Suspects", which I just found out was his break-out movie. He always seemed to me as non-conforming, odd, cold, mysterious and arrogant. Little did I know that much of it had to do with his shyness in public.
He is a high achiever and that intrigued me, until when I saw his appearance at Inside the Actor's Studio.
Very interesting. I can see it in his eyes that he is a totally different person from his movie characters. He is surprisingly a not bad looking guy at all, with a trace of Pitt and DiCaprio in him. And obviously well trained, hardworking, smart, and a talent.
He mentioned the advice that Christopher Walken gave him, to paraphrase, "if you don't know what you are doing, don't do anything." And what James Lipton quoted from other actors who have visited, "the power of stillness".
I just added a few more movies to my "to-watch" list.
He is a high achiever and that intrigued me, until when I saw his appearance at Inside the Actor's Studio.
Very interesting. I can see it in his eyes that he is a totally different person from his movie characters. He is surprisingly a not bad looking guy at all, with a trace of Pitt and DiCaprio in him. And obviously well trained, hardworking, smart, and a talent.
He mentioned the advice that Christopher Walken gave him, to paraphrase, "if you don't know what you are doing, don't do anything." And what James Lipton quoted from other actors who have visited, "the power of stillness".
I just added a few more movies to my "to-watch" list.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Christopher Walken
Obviously there is a huge underground culture of Christopher Walken impersonation.
Bushism
The 50 Dumbest Bush Quotes of All Time
10. "Rarely is the questioned asked: Is our children learning?" --Florence, South Carolina, Jan. 11, 2000
9. "As yesterday's positive report card shows, childrens do learn when standards are high and results are measured." --on the No Child Left Behind Act, Washington, D.C., Sept. 26, 2007
8. "If this were a dictatorship, it'd be a heck of a lot easier, just so long as I'm the dictator." --Washington, D.C., Dec. 19, 2000
7. "I'm the decider, and I decide what is best. And what's best is for Don Rumsfeld to remain as the Secretary of Defense." --Washington, D.C. April 18, 2006
6. "There's an old saying in Tennessee -- I know it's in Texas, probably in Tennessee -- that says, fool me once, shame on --shame on you. Fool me -- you can't get fooled again." --Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 17, 2002
5. "Too many good docs are getting out of the business. Too many OB-GYNs aren't able to practice their love with women all across this country." --Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sept. 6, 2004
4. "Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we." --Washington, D.C., Aug. 5, 2004
3. "You work three jobs? ... Uniquely American, isn't it? I mean, that is fantastic that you're doing that." --to a divorced mother of three, Omaha, Nebraska, Feb. 4, 2005
2. "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job." --to FEMA director Michael Brown, who resigned 10 days later amid criticism over his handling of the Hurricane Katrina debacle, Mobile, Ala., Sept. 2, 2005
1. "My answer is bring them on." --on Iraqi insurgents attacking U.S. forces, Washington, D.C., July 3, 2003
~Compiled by Daniel Kurtzman
10. "Rarely is the questioned asked: Is our children learning?" --Florence, South Carolina, Jan. 11, 2000
9. "As yesterday's positive report card shows, childrens do learn when standards are high and results are measured." --on the No Child Left Behind Act, Washington, D.C., Sept. 26, 2007
8. "If this were a dictatorship, it'd be a heck of a lot easier, just so long as I'm the dictator." --Washington, D.C., Dec. 19, 2000
7. "I'm the decider, and I decide what is best. And what's best is for Don Rumsfeld to remain as the Secretary of Defense." --Washington, D.C. April 18, 2006
6. "There's an old saying in Tennessee -- I know it's in Texas, probably in Tennessee -- that says, fool me once, shame on --shame on you. Fool me -- you can't get fooled again." --Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 17, 2002
5. "Too many good docs are getting out of the business. Too many OB-GYNs aren't able to practice their love with women all across this country." --Poplar Bluff, Mo., Sept. 6, 2004
4. "Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we." --Washington, D.C., Aug. 5, 2004
3. "You work three jobs? ... Uniquely American, isn't it? I mean, that is fantastic that you're doing that." --to a divorced mother of three, Omaha, Nebraska, Feb. 4, 2005
2. "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job." --to FEMA director Michael Brown, who resigned 10 days later amid criticism over his handling of the Hurricane Katrina debacle, Mobile, Ala., Sept. 2, 2005
1. "My answer is bring them on." --on Iraqi insurgents attacking U.S. forces, Washington, D.C., July 3, 2003
~Compiled by Daniel Kurtzman
Seinfeld Stand-up
From Jerry Seinfeld Live on Broadway: I'm Telling You for the Last Time.
Watched it millions of times. Classic Seinfeld. It's hard to pick out the best segment.
DVD track # in bracket.
Vol 1: Cab Drivers (#2)
Vol 1: Air Travel (#3)
Vol 2: Florida (#4)
Vol 2: Halloween (#5)
Vol 2: Supermarkets (#6)
Vol 3: Drugstores (#7)
Vol 3: Doctors (#8)
Vol 4: Men and Women (#9)
Vol 4: Chinese People (#10)
Vol 4: McDonald (#11)
Vol 6: Late TV (#17)
Vol 6: Crooks (#18)
Vol 6: Horses (#19)
Vol 7: Bathrooms (#20)
Watched it millions of times. Classic Seinfeld. It's hard to pick out the best segment.
DVD track # in bracket.
Vol 1: Cab Drivers (#2)
Vol 1: Air Travel (#3)
Vol 2: Florida (#4)
Vol 2: Halloween (#5)
Vol 2: Supermarkets (#6)
Vol 3: Drugstores (#7)
Vol 3: Doctors (#8)
Vol 4: Men and Women (#9)
Vol 4: Chinese People (#10)
Vol 4: McDonald (#11)
Vol 6: Late TV (#17)
Vol 6: Crooks (#18)
Vol 6: Horses (#19)
Vol 7: Bathrooms (#20)
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Burger Trick
Cyril Takayama performs a magic trick with the menu of a McDonalds restaurant in Japan.
He is a performer and he made the trick a bit more theatrical than it was. Look for a clue in a related video - that's when you decide you never want to know how they did it any more but rather just sit back and enjoy the magical moment.
He is a performer and he made the trick a bit more theatrical than it was. Look for a clue in a related video - that's when you decide you never want to know how they did it any more but rather just sit back and enjoy the magical moment.
Hallelujah
Criss Angel is great. Unlike David Copperfield, a traditional magician, Criss packages himself as a punk rock musician. And he will surprise you.
No grandiose set-up, costume, music and all those expensive distractions, and Boom, he knocks your socks off.
Criss Angel Walks on Water
No grandiose set-up, costume, music and all those expensive distractions, and Boom, he knocks your socks off.
Criss Angel Walks on Water
Amazing Skills
Unless they are superhumen, they must have spent tons of time figuring those out.
If only they can devote the same amount of energy and have the same kind of focus, they can be high achievers.
If only they can devote the same amount of energy and have the same kind of focus, they can be high achievers.
Friday, May 29, 2009
I Have to Deal with Stereotypes
A friend of mine recommended this Asian kid on youtube - call name "kevjumba". Very funny and insightful. This is one of it.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Paul Potts - Britain's Got Talent
The triumph of little people. As Chinese goes, "人不可貌相".
First Audition
Semi Final
Final
The Triumph
Royal Variety Performance
Comparison: Pavarotti - Nessun Dorma
Nessum Dorma from Wikipedia
"Nessun dorma (English: No one shall sleep)[1] is an aria from the final act of Giacomo Puccini's opera Turandot,[2] and is one of the best-known tenor arias in all opera. It is sung by Calaf, il principe ignoto (the unknown prince), who falls in love at first sight with the beautiful but cold Princess Turandot. However, any man who wishes to wed Turandot must first answer her three riddles. If he fails, he will be beheaded."
First Audition
Semi Final
Final
The Triumph
Royal Variety Performance
Comparison: Pavarotti - Nessun Dorma
Nessum Dorma from Wikipedia
"Nessun dorma (English: No one shall sleep)[1] is an aria from the final act of Giacomo Puccini's opera Turandot,[2] and is one of the best-known tenor arias in all opera. It is sung by Calaf, il principe ignoto (the unknown prince), who falls in love at first sight with the beautiful but cold Princess Turandot. However, any man who wishes to wed Turandot must first answer her three riddles. If he fails, he will be beheaded."
Susan Boyle, Britain's Got Talent
Audition - I Dreamed a Dream
Semi-Final - Memory
Final - I Dreamed a Dream
Semi-Final - Memory
Final - I Dreamed a Dream
Monday, May 25, 2009
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