"More Sad News From Miller Park"

I feel for this man's family, I really do, but you know they'll probably sue the Brewers management for his stupidity. People just don't take responsibility for their actions anymore. My question is this, why was this man sitting on the rail of a moving escalator in the first place?

"Man dies after falling off escalator at Miller Park"

-Jon
posted by Jon at 11:53 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Quote of the Day"

"Your mind is like a paracute: it works better when it is open."
-Author Unknown

posted by Jon at 11:54 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Thursday: Proactive Resumes"

Well, I would certainly say today was a productive day. Definately way too much job researching, position scouring, and company investigating. But hey, I was able to find twenty new local organizations suitable enough to send my resume and unique cover letter. That has to count for something. The only frustrating prospect is,... I should probably do the same thing again tomarrow.

[very dejected look]

Oh well, at least there are now twenty more specific companies and organizations that have my name and resume. Twenty more companies related to my artistic abilities. Twenty more companies who are now employment contacts in my ever-expanding job-hunting book. That was the goal though -- get my name out there in places it hasn't been before, and keep it out there. So far, so good I guess.

Persistance, persistance, persistance. That's how it gets done. And it 'aint over till Jon Baas gets a job! :p

Have a blessed day all. I'm taking the rest of my day off. Until next time,

Your happily blogging, under-employed friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:50 PM  I   I  0 comments

"An Unusual Kind of Artist"

I was searching various job listings this morning for appropriate Graphics Artist openings in Milwaukee. This one stuck out for some reason. Maybe it has something to do with the following. Read closely.

General Position Summary
Draws graphic material and lettering on computer using various software packages. Works with and handles hazardous waste. Trained in the proper procedures for handling hazardous waste. Studies layouts, sketches of proposed illustrations, and related materials to become familiar with assignment. Determines style, technique, and medium best suited to produce desired effects and conform with reproduction requirements, or receives specific instructions regarding these variables. Formulates concept and renders illustration and detail from models, sketches, memory, and imagination. Discusses illustration at various stages of completion and makes changes as necessary. Selects type, draws lettering, lays out material, or perform related duties.

Hmm. "Works with and handles hazardous waste." You know, I really don't think I'm qualified for that. The rest, certainly... but handling hazardous waste? Hmm... No, I don't think so. I think I'll pass on this one. :)

-Jon
posted by Jon at 3:01 AM  I   I  0 comments

"Jerry Goldsmith"

I missed this very noteworthy -- and saddening -- bit of news from last week. I think it still bears mentioning....

Oscar-winning film and television composer, Jerry Goldsmith, died last Wednesday. He was 75 years old. He is one of the most recognized film composers of our day, and has over 300 composing credits to his name -- including some of the best film scores within the Star Trek franchise. He will be missed.

"Oscar-Winning Composer Jerry Goldsmith Dies in L.A."

"Jerry Goldsmith Virtually Defined the Music of Star Trek"

-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:52 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Recap: Mockingbird Audition"

I think the audition went pretty well to be honest. I had fun, tried a few things, and met a few fellow thespians along the way. You can't really have a better audition than that.

I've never actually auditioned at that particular theatre before, so to see the variety of people that showed up certainly impressed me. It also cast that theatre in a good light. Actor interest is a great thing to see in a theatre. It goes a long way toward interesting me in future auditions there. That's also a good thing. :)

I was a little surprised though at the reactions I got from fellow auditionees when I tried something creative or attempted something no one else seemed to think of -- such as something seemingly as simple as making use of props during the audition. To me that just made sense. Take risks. Be inventive. Try new things. Most of those who I auditioned with, just did the typical "stand around and read from the script" sort of thing. While that works in high school or perhaps college auditions to some degree, I was kind of hoping here for a little more interaction while on stage. As a result, I probably stood out a bit.

But, then again, maybe that earned me a little notice from the director? Who knows.

I read for a variety of roles actually, nothing too specific. My intent was to go out there, find a new theatre I'd never acted at, and give it a shot. I also find that I have a great interest in the story, "To Kill a Mockingbid", although I don't really know why. That said, this was probably a perfect show to audition for then, and a worthy introduction to this particular theatre.

Now, all that remains to be seen, is what the director thought. I'll probably find that out sometime in early September. These were the early auditions. My fingers are certainly crossed, but I've learned never to expect anything. We'll see.

It is a good feeling to have my foot back in theatre again, though. I truely do miss it when I'm away. I love to act, and I've loved playing pretend since I was a kid. I'm still Hollywood-bound, but I'm more than happy to take the long way to get there. It builds character. I like character. Acting is in my blood. It must run in the family. :)

Ah, well, have a blessed rest of the week all. I'll catch you on the marrow.

Your happily blogging actor friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 11:08 PM  I   I  0 comments

"I'm Off to Kill the Mockingbird!"

Alright. Energy and excitement rising!... The time has come to go grab a small bite to eat, warm up my acting muscle, and go have some fun auditioning! Wish me luck!

-Jon
posted by Jon at 5:16 PM  I   I  0 comments

"To Kill a Mockingbird"

Well, the time has come to get back on stage again. There's just so much I can do when it comes to finding a job. So, why sit around playing a waiting game -- with all of these non-responsive companies -- when I could be putting the time to better use doing something I enjoy? In this case, acting. So, that said, I will be auditioning for a local stage show tomarrow. "To Kill a Mockingbird", to be exact.

The local Sunset Playhouse (a community theatre of some renown around here) is putting on a production of this classic story opening in late October. Should I be cast, rehearsals don't start until early September. However, I'm looking at this as another opportunity to both audition and have fun doing so, as well as a chance to once again "play pretend". I enjoy playing pretend.

I am also looking at this as an effort to get out there and make even more of a name for myself. So far, I've been pretty successful doing so within the art world. Now it's time to step up those efforts in acting. In a way, I've been waiting for some things to fall into place before making more of a concerted leap. But, I suppose there really is truth to the old saying, "Don't put off for tomarrow what you could be doing today."

"Do what you love, the rest [aka, paycheck] will follow."

Yeah, I know, what the heck am I waiting for? If I wait too long, the opportunities will pass me by. Grab them, hold on tight, and enjoy the ride, right? I suppose I just have to do more of that more often. I've been a little lenient on the risk side of things lately. Time to get proactive and step outside of my comfort zone.

We'll see how it goes. Until tomarrow,

-Jon
posted by Jon at 9:03 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Photos by Mark Tucker"

Take a moment and check out these incredible photos by Mark Tucker. He specializes in advertising photography, and creates some exceptional compositions.

I came across his site through another blogger, and I must say, he's got an impressive portfolio of work. Enjoy!

-Jon
posted by Jon at 7:17 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Random Wikipedia Entry"

A random entry from the Wikipedia. There's no telling what you might learn.

posted by Jon at 10:01 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Time Machine"

A Photoshop contest from Worth 1000: Time Machine 6.
The trick in this contest is to put objects in settings foreign to their timeline.

posted by Jon at 8:18 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Baseball: Cubbies vs. Crew"

Hmm. With a 9-1 loss to the Houston Astros today, the Milwaukee Brewers are one game under .500 for the first time since May 9th. I'm hoping they can turn it around sooner than later, though. They've been having a surprising season this year. I'd dearly love to see them continue.

Thankfully, though, the Chicago Cubs are in town on Monday to kick off the start of a ten-game Brewers homestand. Another sweep of the Cubs would certainly be nice, and considering the Cubs/Brewers rivelry, this should prove to be yet another thrilling series. I'll be honest, I greatly appreciate the Cubs, but when they play the hometown team, they are by default relagated to being the "bad guys".

Sorry Cubbies fans. I gotta stay true to my Crew. :)

-Jon
posted by Jon at 7:21 PM  I   I  0 comments

"RollerCoaster Tycoon"

Recently, Scott offered to lend me one of his computer games to occupy some downtime that I had. I happily accepted, especially considering the good game that it was. Unfortunately, it's been occupying more time that it should.

RollerCoaster Tycoon is a rather amusing game. The whole point is to create a successful theme park with a variety of roller coasters, rides, shops, and other attractions. For those unfamiler, it's along the same vein as SimCity -- only by a different game company and in a different setting.

Well, I've been playing this game quite a bit today. There's a certain addicting quality to building your park with a wide variety of features, and then watching the many animated theme park guests running around the park excitedly enjoying these attractions. They ride your roller coasters, buy souvenirs and concessions, and generally provide hours of entertainment. It's a great game,... but I think it should come with one recommendation....

...Don't play so much of it when you're supposed to be looking for a job! :)

-Jon
posted by Jon at 11:17 PM  I   I  0 comments

"KerryEdwards.com"

Hmm. This guy appears to be in an interesting predicament. His personal website, KerryEdwards.com, seems to be getting a lot of traffic these days.

My name is Kerry Edwards. Two years ago I registered this domain name to put up photos for my family and friends. Now the site is the center of a flurry of interest from people and organizations around the world and of all political affiliations.

I find this amusing though...
The domain name is up for sale. The current bid is $150,000.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 2:58 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Browser Power"

There are always more efficient ways of surfing the web. Some might say the best way to do this is to install every browser toolbar you encounter. Perhaps so, but I think this would bug me to no end.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 5:09 PM  I   I  0 comments

"500 And Counting"

Alright. Interesting news item. Drumroll please.

This very weblog entry -- the one that you are reading right now -- is officially the 500th entry to be posted on JonBaas.com since I eagerly joined the blogging world on August 26, 2002. Yes, you heard that right. You are currently witnessing a historic JonBaas.com moment! Treasure it, for it will never come again.

Ok, moment over.

We now return you to your regularly scheduled program. :)

-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:21 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Audi Illusions"

Illusions is a new advertisement for the Audi A6. The more times you see this commercial, though, the more sophisticated the visual trickery becomes.

The spot features an Audi A6 traversing a cityscape that seems at first glance to be as normal as any other. However, gradually the eye starts to notice strange things. The streets and buildings create impossible paths and spaces -- optical puzzles -- that challenge the eye and baffle the mind. It's based on the famous art of M.C. Escher. Very cool!

-Jon
posted by Jon at 10:40 PM  I   I  0 comments

"First Man on the Moon"

35 Years ago the first man walked on the moon. The launch took place at Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A on July 16, 1969. The crew was commander Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and crew pilot Michael Collins.

In this beautiful panorama picture you can see Buzz Aldrin at the Landing Module unloading material for the experiments.

You can see more 360 degrees panoramas at panoramas.dk.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 9:12 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Non-Specific Tuesday"

Today wasn't too exciting. I spent much of it working, and was able to complete a notable project, continue my somewhat distressing employment search, and sit around a bit uncomfortably in the humid apartment that I call home. Like I said, nothing too exciting. :p

But we'll see what tomarrow brings. I hear it's supposed to rain, and with it, bring a cool-down in the temperature. That'll be nice. Maybe I can turn this fan off and enjoy a cooling breeze from the window instead. Heh. We'll see.

Have a blessed day, and until the marrow,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 11:54 PM  I   I  0 comments

"BlogShares"

BlogShares is a fantasy stock market where weblogs are the companies. Players invest fictional dollars on shares in blogs. Blogs are valued by their incoming links and add value to other blogs by linking to them. Prices can go up or down based on trading and the underlying value of the blog.

Incidently, 'JonBaas: Daily Musings' is currently worth $2.42/share.

Try your hand at BlogShares. See if you can do better than that.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:49 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Ten Things to Do in Milwaukee"

10 Things to do in Milwaukee before you die:

1. Miller Brewery Factory Tour
2. Harley-Davidson Tour Center
3. Safehouse
4. Kopp's Frozen Custard Stand
5. Milwaukee Art Museum
6. La Perla
7. Zaffiro's
8. Miller Park
9. Taylor's
10. Mars' Cheese Castle

And, for those of you not from Milwaukee, according to the same survey, there are 390 top things to do in America before you die (top ten in 39 USA cities).

Here are the top three:

1. Sip a beer and cheer on the Chicago Cubs in Wrigley Field.
2. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco at sunrise.
3. Witness the revelry and ride a Mardi Gras float in New Orleans.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 2:49 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Iraq at a Glance"

Stories and News From Iraq After the Liberation.

My roomate, Scott, pointed me to the above weblog earlier today, and I've now had the chance to read through it a little. It's written by an Iraqi denstist who lives in Baghdad. He shares his thoughts and concerns about his home, his country, and his support of the Coalition troops who are trying desperately to uphold peace.

He also links to a variety of other Iraqi bloggers, a few US and Iraqi soldier weblogs, and a good collection of other first-hand blogger accounts of the current struggles in Iraq. I highly recommend it. It's worth your time.

Here's a sample post from Iraqataglance:

Freedom is a Responsibility

"Unfortunately, many people explain the freedom that has been given to us as they like. Some of them are looting from the governmental buildings... Stealing whatever they want and saying, "this is a freedom", 'these are our rights from the government". Others are building new houses wherever they want to build without licenses and they are saying, "this is a freedom". Others are not obeying policemen and drive however they want. Some people are not organizing themselves in queues and preferring the mess and fuss wherever they go saying that, "this is a freedom", driving in wrong directions in order to save time! "This is a freedom".

I want to tell those idiots that this is not a freedom this is an anarchy and chaos. The freedom is given to people who do not know what is the meaning of it.

Two days ago, a patient came to my dental clinic, he was dirty with offensive odour, looked like a beggar... After he’s sat down on the dental chair he’s started talking about an accident he had with his CAR!! I said "do you have a car?!" He said "yes, doctor." At once I concluded that he was a thief (in slang known as Hawasim, a name derived from Saddam’s description to the coming war at that time as Al-hawasim which means The Decisive War. After the end of the war, everyone whom seen in the loot and robbery is called ‘Hawasim’!!).

Back to the patient... I told him, "what accident?" He said, "yesterday I was driving in 'alkasra', a neighborhood in the north-east of Baghdad, with my PATROL and there was a traffic jam. So I went up the sidewalk and I drove along it passing all the cars then suddenly ANOTHER car went up the sidewalk when I couldn’t keep away from it. Then I hit that car so that the two cars were badly damaged. I blame the policeman for that accident," he said.

I said, "the policemen are doing their best to control such cases, it was your fault."

He said, "no... this is a freedom... I do whatever I want to do!!"

I was so angry that I wished to plant the probe in his eyes. Then I referred him to another dental clinic, because he did not deserve any type of help.

That was one of thousands of stories which make me feel that those people will never learn to behave like human beings. I look forward to letting the FREE people to think even for a minute daily about freedom and use it correctly and wisely."

Reading blog accounts like this get me thinking. We, as Americans -- sitting back at home, safe from the worries of daily car bombings, looting, and terrorism -- don't grasp the full measure of life in the 'war zone'. We're too used to our own freedoms to really care about those of others struggling for theirs. And more often then not, we rely too heavily upon the media to spoonfeed us the 'truth'. Perhaps, what we need to do is take more time, bypass the opininated media, and read the truth for ourselves -- from those who are truely living it.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 10:06 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Are Blogs Ready for Prime-Time?"

A Blogads survey claims that blog readers are more mature and affluent than expected and more prone to click on ads and buy online. Many advertisers think bloggers, and blog readers, inhabit some kind of cyber backwater, full of stagnant, egotistical, overwritten and overblown opinion pages, but no real advertising opportunities.

Far from being young kids with little money in their pockets and lots of time on their hands, the survey found that blog readers are older and richer than many people suppose. Exactly 61% of the blog readers are over the age of 30, and 75% make more than $45,000 a year. In fact, nearly 30% of the respondents are between the ages of 31 and 40, and over 37% spanned the ages of 41 to 60. And nearly 40% have a household income of $90,000 or higher.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 7:24 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Tired?"

Are you tired?
Where web surfers go when they haven't slept a wink.
posted by Jon at 10:54 PM  I   I  0 comments

"America on the Move"

America on the Move explores the role of transportation in American history.

Visit communities wrestling with the changes that new transportation networks brought. See cities change, suburbs expand and farms and factories become part of regional, national and international economies. Meet people as they travel for work and pleasure, and as they move to new homes.
posted by Jon at 9:15 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Today, One Year Ago"

My how time flies.

Today, right about this time last year -- July 15, 2003 -- I was returning home after spending a long 13-hour day on the Hollywood set of the soon-to-be released Bernie Mac movie, "Mr. 3000". I wrote an online behind-the-scenes journal entry of the time I spent there.

By the end of July, I would have spent a total of fifteen days on that set. I ended up keeping (non-spoiler) journal entries of each of those days as well.

Now, though, it's a full year later. Filming is complete. The movie is edited, and before long, "Mr. 3000" will finally be in theatres nationwide. I had the blessing to witness the story as an actor in front of the camera -- to be part of the story. Now, on September 24, I can see the whole thing from the other side of the camera. The side the story was meant to be seen from -- the silver screen.

Yes, it's been a year now since I lived and breathed the sights and sounds of the set. I had a blast and enjoyed every minute of the opportunity! And I wouldn't give it back for the world. I'm pretty sure this won't be the last Hollywood set I step onto either. No, there are just some things that stay with you in life. For me, acting is one of them. There will be more movie sets. I'll just have keep my fingers crossed and watch for them.

...Now, if only there was a way for plain simple me to attend the official film premiere in Los Angeles! Then I would be in actor heaven! And oh what a way to top off an awesome film experience that would be! The opportunity of a lifetime!
(Hey, I can dream, can't I!?)

My how time flies. :)

Ah, well, anyway,... I think I am going to go dream... :)

Until tomarrow,

Your happily blogging actor friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:42 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Now Faster, Stronger, and More Reliable"

Well, good news for those that need their JonBaas fix. Scott and I have recieved our new hardware from SBC, and as of today, we are now able to be online at the same time, on the same connection. Ah, the marvels of technology! :)

This also puts to rest the last of the issues regarding our internet service being "inadvertantly" shut off a little over two weeks ago. SBC goofed, and it took us a dozen calls or so -- to a wide variety of their technical and customer service departments -- just to get the issue(s) cleared up! But, I am now happy to say, all is well. I should be back and blogging as usual -- on an even faster connection, and without ISP problems.

I still think we should have gotten a discount of some sort; that would have been good business. But hey, I guess what's done is done. I won't press that issue any further. At least we now have the service we're paying for. If things stay as they are now, I should be a happy camper again.

Have a blessed day all, and until later,

-Jon
posted by Jon at 5:33 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Site of the Day"

Jon's Website Pick of the Day:
HomeStarRunner.com

My roomate and I sat down this evening and watched through a couple dozen of the popular StrongBad emails hosted on this site. I'll admit, I'm new to the animated flash cartoon series. Scott, on the other hand, is a veteran fan. But after sitting there and thoroughly enjoying StrongBad's unique sense of humor, I'm also more than happy to include myself among the StrongBad fandom. Yeah, I'm hooked!

If you haven't yet met StrongBad, feel free to take a look. This is probably one of the most enjoyable internet cartoons I've been introduced to in a long time!

Enjoy today's Pick, have a blessed day, and until next time,

Your happily blogging friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 11:54 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Hulk's Diary"

Even The Incredible Hulk has a weblog, and it's been online since October 2001.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 9:29 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Monday: Job Search Blues"

I spent almost all of today sending out resumes and doing general job-searching. I was probably only marginally successful.

I did find a few from local listings that snagged my attention, though, and I was quick to apply to them. I'm hoping at least one of them pans out and ends up contacting me for an interview. That would certainly be ideal. These jobs today were right up my alley. But, then again, maybe I'm just being a little to hopeful in that regards. In the past, most companies weren't even thoughtful enough to send a rejection letter. That really bugs me.

When it comes to a job, I'm someone who thrives on creativity. I'm an optimistic person, so I'm planning to hold out for a creative job for as long as I can (or at least for as long as I can generate good leads). They're out there, just a heck of a lot harder to find. I've had enough employment experiences in the past that were far less than exciting. But a job oozing of creativity would certainly get me revved up each day. That's the kind of job I'm looking for.

I've given a lot of thought to increased acting too. I've been away from it for long enough that I miss it dearly. I'd love more than anything to make that the breadwinning job, but alas, where I am right now, something else has to pay the bills, and acting has to remain on the side. It's a shame really. You can't get much more creative than acting.

Unfortunately, here in Milwaukee, creativity is not a really big market. Jobs around here are mostly either in health care or in technical/service fields. I find little enjoyment in either. Definitely not a good place for the creative me. It's just a shame I love this city so much.

A move to a better creative market is in the plans, but unfortunately, that jump is still a year or two in the future. I've already got the creative, the artistic, and the acting skills... the trick is just finding the best productive bill-paying use for them while I am still here in Milwaukee. But then again, who knows. Maybe I'll find better luck job searching the third time around. Third time's a charm, right?

Pray for me. Pray that I am able to keep using my creative skills and keep moving towards that ultimate career goal. I love to act, and I love artistic ventures. Pray that either one, or both, can find a place within the job I find.

But I'll keep searching. Tomarrow is another "resume day". I've got a few other things to work on besides knocking on doors... But, regardless, it's likely that tomarrow will see me digging a bit deeper than today. I'm hoping for some stellar leads. We'll see.

Alas, Monday is now at a close. Tuesday is calling. I'll have to catch you all on the marrow. I'll be sure to let you know how things go.

Have a blessed day, and until then,

Your happily blogging creative friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 11:49 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Job Predictor"

By entering your name, The Job Predictor will tell you your ideal job. I entered 'Jon' and it said my ideal job would be as an Astrologist. I entered 'Jonathan' and it noted my ideal job would be a Soap Actor.

I think I'll take the Soap Actor. It pays more and sounds a heck of a lot more fun. :)

Enter your name and let the Job Predictor tell you your ideal job.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:17 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Film Favorite: The Cutting Edge"

One of my all-time favorite films.
"The Cutting Edge" (1992)

Action and romance take to the screen when a self-centered washed-up ex-hockey star (D.B. Sweeney) and a prima donna champion figure skater (Moira Kelly) become unlikely partners in pursuit of Olympic gold.

Jon Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

-Jon
posted by Jon at 2:44 AM  I   I  0 comments

"Romkerhall"

Located within Germany, there exists a small country called Romkerhall. In 1988 this miniscule piece of 'independent' land was proclaimed as the world's smallest kingdom and has an official Queen. The Kingdom possesses worldwide privileges -- such as the right to confer titles of nobility -- it has its own currency, and it has the right to assign embassies all over the world.

For those that may be interested, Romkerhall is currently for sale on Ebay.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 8:23 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Joe Versus the Volcano"

After I had completed my work goals for the day today, I sat down and popped the early Tom Hanks film, "Joe Versus the Volcano", into the VCR. Oddly, I've never seen this gem yet. It's from Scott's sizable collection of movies (many of which I haven't seen), and now that he's moved in, I decided to give this one a shot.

At first the film struck me as odd. I was expecting something a little more realistic I suppose. But, knowing that Tom Hanks has never turned out a bad film performance, I stuck around and slowly came to enjoy it. I still don't know how best to review it personally, but having read a few reviews on IMDB.com, this one seemed to help explain the film the best....

"A lot of people didn't like this movie because they misunderstood what it was. This movie is a modernization of early French and German expressionist films.

Unless you've studied film history, this movie will likely go way over your head. But what John Patrick Shanley has done is truly unique. He has created a modern motion picture in the style of Cinema's early years. This movie was basically made asking the question, "What would the early filmmakers do if they made movies today?".

The beginning of this film is done as German expressionism, specifically referencing Fritz Lang's "Metropolis". If you've seen the first five minutes of "Metropolis", you'll recognize it instantly. Once they get out on the ocean, you start to get wisps of George Melies' storybook films (moons were really big with him). This trend continues until the famous, hauntingly beautiful moonrise scene, which would make Melies himself very proud.

The early stylings rub off on other parts as well, specifically it's use of unreal lighting. Various colored lights are used throughout the movie, giving them a very artistic look. Another early style mimicked here is film tinting. This happens in one scene in particular. When Joe and Patricia are on the deck of the boat before the typhoon hits, the entire image is tinted green. Early filmmakers in the silent era did this all the time to give specific scenes a certain feel before color film existed.

I have to give credit to George Delerue for giving this movie one of the most beautiful, exquisite, and awesome musical scores I have ever heard on a movie. I always watch this movie LOUD because I love the music so much.

Joe Versus the Volcano is a modern classic and one of my all-time favorite films. 10/10. Perfect."

- Tyler Norman (IMDB film review)

I'll be honest, this is a great film (now that I've seen it personally). I don't know if I'd rate it a perfect ten... maybe an eight, but still, if you enjoy Tom Hanks, you'll enjoy this film. It's well done, and achieves something unique in it's artistry -- something that is often not found to the same degree in modern cinema. But then again, you know me, I'm a sucker for good artistry. So, give it a watch sometime. I'd love to hear your opinion.

Have a blessed weekend all! Until next time,

Your happily blogging friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 2:13 AM  I   I  0 comments

"The Virtual Orchestra"

The Virtual Orchestra is a project created with the help of Northumberland County Music Service, whose multi-talented musicians can be seen and heard playing on these pages.

On each page you can see photographs of an instrument and hear the sound it makes. To listen to the music, point (don't click) the mouse at the green button underneath the photograph. You will see some notes appear and hear the music.

-Jon
posted by Jon at 9:51 PM  I   I  0 comments

"An Earthquake in Wisconsin?"

Well, there really is a first time for everything. I can now say that I have lived through an earthquake.

Last Monday (June 28), a 4.1 magnitude quake hit Northern Illinois directly south of Milwaukee, and 70 miles west of Chicago. Damage was minimal and there were no injuries reported. It certainly didn't come anything close to the major earthquakes that usually grace the news, but, nonetheless, it was still felt here in Milwaukee. Quakes in this part of the U.S. are very rare, but they do happen.

According to the news, the ground shook at 1:11am Monday morning (June 28). I was awake, sitting on my bed going through some files. I'm usually up that late, so it was nothing out of the ordinary. When the room actually shook for a few seconds, my first thought was that one of the typical large trucks had just gone past my apartment. It took a few moments to realize that there had been no truck.

The idea that this had been an earthquake tickled my mind, but didn't stay long. It seemed too proposterous. I had never heard of there ever being a noticable earthquake in Wisconsin. Why should there be one now? So I went back to work. Earlier this week I decided to follow up on that idea, and sure enough, I had felt an earthquake.

I guess there is a first time for everything. I have to wonder though, how would I have reacted had it been a larger quake? Something to think about I suppose. And something I hope never happens.

"Quake rocks southeast Wisconsin, 5 other states"

-Jon
posted by Jon at 4:25 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Recap: Independance Day Weekend"

This past weekend my parents came down here to Milwaukee for a visit. They had decided to once again come and see my sister in one of her theatre shows in Sheboygan, but also to visit with both of us and turn the extended holiday weekend into a bit of a vacation.

Saturday night they stayed in a hotel here in the city, and then early on Sunday, the four of us (including my sister Lydia who made the trip from Minnesota with them) went up to Kiel for Church. For the rest of the day we enjoyed lunch and dinner in Sheboygan, as well as a little shopping and down time. It was an enjoyable way to spend time with family, and a great way to enjoy a vacation.

One of the best things about the trip up to Sheboygan, though, (other than spending time with family) was the hotel. It had a hot-tub and an indoor pool. Yes, yes... I know, I'm a sucker for such simple pleasures. But I'll be honest, it's been a while since I enjoyed either of those, so I decided not to turn down the opportunity. Since I'd gone up there, the plan was that I'd just stay in the hotel with family, rather than return to Milwaukee.

The hot-tub was relaxing. Unless you own one of your own, and have a private pool in your own yard, something like this is usually a rare treat. Warm water, followed by a cooling pool with few to no people swimming at the time, makes for a great way to spend part of an evening!

On Monday, after a restful sleep, I awoke to Sheboygan's celebration of American Independance. Today, Rachel (sister) was part of the local Sheboygan Theatre Company's performance of "Red, White, and Rosie" -- a musical about the historic WWII icon, Rosie the Riveter. Although I think this was a well written musical with catchy songs, and a good overall production, the Sheboygan performance was actually only the fifth time this show has ever been performed -- anywhere. That I found rather odd, especially considering that it was written in the mid 1980's.

On Tuesday, my parents (and Lydia) set out to return to Minnesota, and Rachel (and my friend Tricia) returned me to Milwaukee. It was an excellent vacation from the norm, and a great few days spent away from my apartment. Of course, now that I'm back, it's back to business for me. But at least Independance Day this year was a memorable one.

Have a blessed day all, and until next time,

Your happily blogging friend,

-Jon
posted by Jon at 2:18 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Back Online"

Ok, it appears that this annoying DSL internet issue is now cleared up. I am now able to access the internet from my apartment. As a result, you'll start seeing regular posts from me once again.

Many thanks for your patience, and again, to those of you who read this blog daily, my appologies. We now return to your regular programming. :)

-Jon
posted by Jon at 2:09 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Marlon Brando"

"Screen Rebel Marlon Brando Dies at 80"

-Jon
posted by Jon at 4:04 PM  I   I  0 comments

"Friday: Update"

Well, my new roomate, Scott, is now moved in. I went up with him to get his furniture and belongings on Tuesday, spent the night, and then loaded up the Uhaul on a beautiful Wednesday. By late afternoon, we were back in Milwaukee. I was a bit sore by the evening, but it was by far a good day for a move. The weather was favorable, and God kept the rain away. Excellent day!

I did find out some frustrating news when I got back though. My internet provider had inadvertantly shut down my internet connection. Big bummer... especially since I do so much that involves internet access -- including work. Unfortunately, instead of just transferring my name (Rather than my roomate's name) onto the account last week (like I had asked), they inadvertantly disconnected the account instead. As a result, both Scott and myself are unable to use the internet for almost two weeks. I'm working to contest that, but unless I can get something else worked out, I'm resigned to limit my internet needs to the library hours of my nearby alma mater.

Big bummer indeed. But, hey, whatever works, works I guess. Please bear with me, though. I may be forced to post blog entries a little less frequently until this issue is cleared up. But then I'll be back in force and back on schedule. No worries. :)

In the meantime, though, take care, enjoy the new weekend, and until next time,

Your happily blogging friend,
-Jon
posted by Jon at 3:27 PM  I   I  0 comments