Cheap Nihilism

Pulling the Plug

2008-01-10T14:54:00.000-05:00

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2008/01/10/kare.facebook.suspensions.cnn

The link posted above shows a video from CNN about how students from high school were caught with "drunk pictures on Facebook." Now the practice of putting drinking/alcohol pictures on Facebook is absolutely ubiquitous. It is impossible to not have a friend without those pictures. As Facebook burgeoned exponentially, I knew that this sort of thing was coming. People would be scrutinizing Facebook profiles to look for things that are deemed "illegal." This story rings bells of privacy invasion. I do not know what to think about it.

Legend of Zelda: Link to the Past "Maiden Crystal Recovery Theme"

Optimal Weather

2008-01-06T22:30:00.000-05:00

The weather here in Baltimore is excellent. It has been in the high 50s apparently for a week (according to the taxi driver) and tomorrow it will reach the low 60s. It is much better than the 20 or 30 degree winter in Jersey City. Especially in my house where the heat is never on.

Weezer - Space Rock

New Animals Discovered

2007-12-17T10:06:00.000-05:00

It amazes me how the world is still very undiscovered, despite the existence of human civilization for millenia. I read on http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/asiapcf/12/17/giant.rat.ap/index.html about two new animals being discovered in Indonesia, a giant rat and tiny marsupial. This shows that there is still much to discover in our own world and the universe itself.

Mastodon - Hearts Alive

Realstudyingforonce

2007-12-15T16:29:00.000-05:00

Today I studied for the first time with concentration. This is all for the Chemistry exam on Tuesday, the last work I have to do for the first semester. Overall, the semester was useful as I basically turned myself around from being a failure to a mediocre student. So I have to make this exam count so I can pass the class with certainty.

Mr. Bungle - Quote Unquote

Birthday

2007-12-13T00:41:00.000-05:00

Today I turn 18, but today will be better known as the day the Mitchell Report is released. All of the baseball players who tested positive for steroids will be revealed. This is revolutionary.

Queens of the Stone Age - Lightning Song

Temporary Re-emergence

2007-12-11T23:04:00.000-05:00

I am back...for now, while I am still at school for finals. When I go back home, this blog will be dormant again (no more Internet at home), until I get back to Baltimore on January 6 for Intersession. But for now I am back. Why? Because I remarkably bored right now. There's nothing to do because people are studying for finals, while my last final is on the 18th, a week from now. So I will stop being lazy for once and actually study for that so I can ensure a passing grade in Intro Chemistry. So yeah, finals.

Bush - Machinehead

Suspended Blog

2007-11-04T23:32:00.000-05:00

This blog will be suspended for a while. It seems as if there's nothing really interesting to talk about these days, mundaness has taken over. So yeah, this will be back on eventually, there is no definite timetable at this point. I might go back to all the old posts and put labels on them in the mean time. I'm sapped of everything possible right now and I am just beating a dead horse by writing posts about nothing. Long story short, this will be shut down for a while, until I feel like writing again. Who knows when it will be back...

Anberlin - Dance, Dance Christa Paffgen

Shift Backwards

2007-11-04T01:34:00.000-04:00

The time warp of daylight savings will take place soon. It was an odd thing for Ben Franklin to play god and implement the system of daylight savings. For one thing, the days will be much shorter from now on. Hopefully, this means I could wake up earlier in the mornings.

Something Corporate - Not What It Seems

Knockout Allergies

2007-11-03T14:30:00.000-04:00

Through the last few years, my allergies have been pretty bad. Today, my eyes started tearing extensively, so my vision became blurry. This was of course coupled with my regular allergies. I was watching the football game, which is the last home game for JHU. However, I had to leave during halftime because of the allergies. That is why I am here now.

Eels - Fresh Feeling

Family Weekend

2007-11-02T12:04:00.000-04:00

It is family weekend here at JHU. Basically a lot of people are going to be on campus. The football game (last home game) will probably be packed for the first time ever. I'll be sure to be there. Since there isn't much going on this weekend. I'll be sure to do my work and study for things.

Chevelle - Get Some

Interssion

2007-11-01T12:15:00.000-04:00

I plan on doing Intersession this winter, which is having a 2 week break for the holidays and coming back 2 weeks earlier to take classes. This way, I could stay sharp for the second semester, when grades count. I have to explore options and find some cool classes to take. By the way, I think I have 2 D's so far, which is not good. I must get the C-!

Deftones - Mein

Halloween

2007-10-31T12:47:00.000-04:00

Halloween is a special holiday for young Americans and those who grew up celebrating this pastime. The whole idea of avoiding child-abducting witches has been lost and now it has become a fun holiday. I never had Halloween costumes during my childhood and I often felt bad during school. I remember everyone wanted to be the Red Power Ranger. Not everyone got to be so priveledged. Today my Calculus professor came in dressed up as a wizard. It was really funny. But yeah, Halloween is cool.

Coffeeology

2007-10-30T14:53:00.000-04:00

I terribly lack the knowledge of coffee as I do not go to Starbucks or any place like that often. I have been going to the Cafe Q in the MSE library. Yesterday I got a Cafe Latte and was surprised to get froth. I just got a double shot espresso and I see it is very small. Hopefully it is effective, so I could study for my Chemisty exam tomorrow.

Tomahawk - Mayday

Autumnal

2007-10-29T12:28:00.000-04:00

First real day of autumnal-like temperatures, with the cold breeze and falling leaves. The transition period is here and sooner or later it will be very cold here. It won't be as cold as a Jersey City winter, but it should still be cold here in Baltimore.

Stone Temple Pilots - Black Again

Fake FEMA Press Conference

2007-10-28T13:05:00.000-04:00

When I heard this story, I thought that it was the most ridiculous blunder possible. I do not know who could have thought of such a plan. Here is the video if you haven't seen it. I think such a poorly run agency should not even exist anymore. It needs to be restructured completely, with competent leaders. The name should be changed as well, since FEMA has been tarnished.

Mr. Bungle - The Air Conditioned Nightmare

Time For the "Dragon Slayer"

2007-10-27T13:03:00.000-04:00

Currently in the World Series, the Red Sox are ahead of the Rockies 2-0. As a Devil Rays fan and a fan of NY teams, I truly hate the Red Sox, and I find the players and fans as very arrogant. Today the Rockies are pitching in Colorado with Josh Fogg starting. He is known as "The Dragon Slayer", because he has a knack of defeating famous opposing pitchers who are much better than him. Players like Fogg are my favorite, because they are underdogs defying all odds, and succeeding in the end. Hopefully the Rockies will do well today and finally win a World Series game.

Mastodon - Capillarian Crest

Lincoln High School Brawl

2007-10-26T13:52:00.000-04:00

I was checking out Jersey City news and I see something about a huge brawl outside of Lincoln High school involving 300 students. I have always known that many Jersey City high schools were up to no good, with Lincoln being the worst of them all. I can't see how kids who actually want to learn in that high school can. The environment and other students themselves are detrimental influences. It all doesn't work.

System of a Down - Thetawaves

San Diego Fires

2007-10-25T12:09:00.000-04:00

California seems to be a very dangerous place to live in, now evidenced by the unrelenting wildfires. It must be extremely agonizing to not know whether your house is still around after all the carnage. Also, possessions and pets are all in limbo as anything can be lost in a fire of such magnitude.

Static X - Otsego Amigo

Bill Nye

2007-10-24T00:36:00.000-04:00

About 4 hours ago, I went to see Bill Nye speak at Shriver Hall. The auditorium was completely packed, with hordes of people seatless. Nye has a knack of combining comedy and "The Message." Overall, I was motivated by his presentation and kept some things in mind. I agreed with his views of energy reduction and global warming. His reference to his Jerry Falwell debate was very good. Nye promoted his idea of sundials (brought upon by his dad) and the usage of Buckyballs. This gave me the notion that all of my ideas can have potential for future use. Most of all, Nye gave hope to all of us students to explore the future, and be part of a dynamic one. I didn't stay for a picture with him, as just hearing him speak was good enough. Did I mention that he made everything sound interesting and made everyone laugh? Bill Nye was stellar in every aspect of the word. This was the best thing I ever saw in my life thus far. Truly unforgettable.

Orange Glow

2007-10-23T12:30:00.000-04:00

One of the prime reasons why I have trouble sleeping sometimes is because of the room brightness, I need darkness for a better sleep. Back in Jersey City, my house is next to a laundromat and lights would always be on in the parking lot. Usually, my room (changes) would be exposed to the irritating orange light and I would have difficulty sleeping. Now in JHU, the problem has resurfaced. Yesterday it took me forever to sleep, since I sleep right next to some bright orange lights, which illuminate the entrance of Wolman Hall. I need to setup a contraption that would keep the room dark.

Tomahawk - 101 North

Internal Dissidence

2007-10-22T12:20:00.000-04:00

The mind and body are mutual components but independent of each other. The cerebral mind is the center of command while the body does all of the grunt work. Often, the body does not obey commands and acts upon itself. This can be evidenced when you fall asleep unexpectedly. I myself must have more control over myself, so I could actually do work and get through college. Dissidence will result in failure of any kind.

Mr. Bungle - Sleep (Part III): Phelegmatics

Goodbye Sober Day

2007-10-21T12:41:00.000-04:00

So I realize that being really drunk brings about a different aspect, in that it totally reshuffles the mind. I actually drew from intellectual ideas about modern art, like Dadaism and Cubism. I also remember Duke Ellington and his unique trumpet-playing technique. However, I had control over myself most of the time (besides running into walls), and realized what was going on. This experience was one to die for, but it will not happen too often. Maybe once a month.

Dave Matthews Band - I Did It

Wu Wei Is The Way

2007-10-20T12:45:00.000-04:00

I am learning some things about Chinese philosophy and how it deals with the body and state for Expository Writing to write my essays this semester. When reading over Taoism, I learned about Wu Wei, the state of doing nothing. Taoism drives on the fact that by doing nothing, one could live forever. It seems as if I had always believed in Wu Wei, since I am a very careless person. I do believe that by ignoring things and not worrying, one could thrive for a long time. Stress kills.

Nine Inch Nails - Closer

Treatment

2007-10-19T10:36:00.000-04:00

What I thought was eczema was actually eczema, as I found out today at the Wellness Center. I bought a steroid cream for $6 to treat my elbows. Hopefully this would be a sufficient remedy.

The Faint - The Conductor

The Crippled Life

2007-10-18T13:36:00.001-04:00

Though I am nor seriously maimed by any means, I did sustain a minor injury that allows me to currently simulate a crippled person. Yesterday while slapboxing with my roommate to see who breaks in 8-ball pool, he stepped on my foot. Probably an hour later, I felt warm fluid on my toe. It was blood, unrelenting blood. So now, I am hobbling and limping everywhere. I guess I cannot play flag football today.

Sum 41 - Heart Attack

The Dalai Lama Wins An Award

2007-10-17T14:01:00.000-04:00

Though I am completely of Chinese heritage, I believe that the Chinese government is not good for the country. China is becoming highly developed economically and technologically, but having friendly relations is also necessary. Today, George Bush awarded the current Dalai Lama with the Congressional Gold Medal, which is one of the highest awards given out by America. However, the Chinese government was angry about this and took offense to it. I actually agree with George Bush here in that religious freedom is necessary for countries, like China. However, knowing the draconian past of the Chinese government, things will remain the same until younger, more liberal leaders step up and change things.

Secret Chiefs 3 - Heroes and Villains

Learn To Read

2007-10-16T12:44:00.000-04:00

I wish I knew how to read. The blatant disregard I have over looking over important papers/notes has truly been a malevolent force upon my academic career. Now today I have so much to do because I read the wrong due date for an essay which is due tomorrow. Sometimes I really wonder how I got into this school.

VAST - Temptation

Environmental Awareness @ JHU

2007-10-15T01:07:00.001-04:00

As the need to maintain the environment becomes a more and more pressing issue, many institutions are resorting to eco-friendly practices. In Johns Hopkins, some elements of the school help the environment. Most garbage bins have a complementary recycle bin for bottles and cans. In the buildings, there are also bins separating each type of garbage. There are 4 Flexcars on campus, though I do not know if they are used often since they have to be rented. The emergency vans which retrieve people from streets seem like a carpooling alternative. So, the school has made measures to help out the environment best as possible.
As for energy sources and other information, I do not know if the college is doing its best for environmental protection. That realm is beyond my knowing. But in general, the school is very clean and presentable.
Help save the environment, and you will help save mankind.

Weezer - Say It Ain't So

4 Blades Makes A Difference

2007-10-14T01:33:00.000-04:00

Though my facial hair growth is almost nonexistent, it isn't and I have to shave like all guys do. I have been using this disposable Schick Quattro blade I got for free at Barnes and Noble. Obviously from the title of this blog or the razor's name itself, one can infer it has 4 blades. The 4 blades make a huge difference, compared to a 2 bladed Schick disposable. It saves time and will save the skin from extra abrasion. When this technology first came out, I thought it was a mere marketing scheme. Now I know the truth.

ohGr - SunBurn

Me, Myself, and I

2007-10-13T00:52:00.000-04:00

Fall break at JHU and most people in Wolman Hall are at home. I have 2 rooms to myself, since my roommate and 2 suitemates are gone. A lot of people were really excited about going home and seemed to be homesick. I guess that my experiences at home have prevented me from breaching upon the feeling of homesickness. This ambition to not be at home has fueled my likeliness to take an Intersession course during January. I like college dorm life.

Queens of the Stone Age - Tangled Up In Plaid

I Like This

2007-10-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

The weather right now is the best it can be all year. It is 65 degrees here in Baltimore and there it is a nice windy day with sun. I would not complain if the weather remains like this for eternity.

Mr. Bungle - Ma Meeshka Mow Skwoz

Bait (Obscured Blog)

2007-10-11T01:50:00.001-04:00

I actually know what is going on now. To know about a situation beforehand really helped understand what is going on. I had to connect the dots of a recent string of events to find out what is happening. I made a rather accurate hypothesis, but it was not hard since everything was rather obvious. Though I cannot actually disclose what is going on currently, all I can say is that I am a bait. Like a worm.

Armenian Genocide

2007-10-10T12:27:00.000-04:00

On CNN, they said that President Bush acknowledged the Armenian Genocide, something that occurred about 90 years ago. Though I am confused of what this message means, I have heard of this genocide several times. The System of a Down Song "P.L.U.C.K." is about this, since the band is Armenian, they should know about their history. Also, the book Bluebeard by Kurt Vonnegut mentions this as well. There are genocides that still go one to this day that go unrecognized. Notably those going on in Sudan.

ohGr - PawSee

Cantakerous Day

2007-10-09T12:17:00.001-04:00

While I am currently cantankerously eating my half chicken and typing with one hand, I am very busy. After my Chemistry Lab, I will go to the Career Center to get free stuff. After that, I have to go to my first training session for my new job, the Phonathon! So today surely is a cantankerous day, I am pining for Fall Break...

Overwhelming Lethargy

2007-10-08T12:22:00.000-04:00

A long stupor wrought by all the work during the weekend is still linger and I am rendered useless for now. Too bad today is such a busy day, one that is unenjoyable. Still have a lot to do and it all sucks. Yeah I'm mad tired.

Insane Clown Posse - The Party

Night Work

2007-10-07T01:53:00.001-04:00

So much work to do thats why I'm writing this now. Have to read a lot of pages for Chinese Philosophy Expository Writing. My eyes are strained from too much Super Smash Brothers. I have to read!!!

Pras ft. Mya, ODB - Ghetto Superstar

Long Sleep

2007-10-06T13:38:00.000-04:00

Slept till about 1PM today. Total waster of a day. Can't keep doing this.

Cooking Up Ideas

2007-10-05T12:12:00.000-04:00

Yesterday late at night, when I was in the shower, I was pondering any new ideas for my writing. Then I came up with the ultimate solution: To write a manifesto. Maybe manifesto is the wrong word, but I plan to write a nonfiction collection of my beliefs, opinions, and the like. This will basically an opinionated purging of myself, with the intent of letting others see inside of me and what I believe in. Also other things, that I am still thinking of. Might begin this during the fall break.

Mr. Bungle - Squeeze Me Macaroni

Ruckus

2007-10-04T12:22:00.000-04:00

I got Ruckus 1 minute ago. I don't know how the fuck to use it. I get over anxious over my computer getting damaged internally. This is confusing.

VAST - Don't Take Your Love Away From Me

Alopecia

2007-10-03T13:04:00.000-04:00

Apparently I am becoming bald. Not the typical male pattern baldness but one from a spot around the top of my head. I knew that the day would come when I would be balding, but I did not expect it this early in life. While I still have my hair, I will grow it out for now. I wonder how many years it will take for me to become bald. No matter what the case, this really sucks.

Legend of Ira Remsen

2007-10-02T16:18:00.000-04:00

Ira Remsen was the first Chemistry professor in JHU, and there is a science building named after him. Apparently, rubbing a plaque located where his ashes lay will give good luck for those taking a Chemistry exam the next day. I will go there later to rub the plaque.

More Baseball Things

2007-10-01T12:51:00.001-04:00

Today there is a one game playoff for the San Diego Padres and Colorado Rockies. Personally, I like the Rockies because they have always been an underdog team. But now, they are surging with 13 of the last 14 games won. It is great to see them succeed.

General Outlook

2007-09-30T11:44:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, I realized that I was doing nothing in college. I figured that I wasn't doing any real work, as I have not been really studying and doing work. This would make me fail out and never even considered any of these ramifications. I need to get back on track and actually do work. At this rate, I would fail and ruin my life. So now I must actually take work seriously.

Weezer - The Good Life

MLB Playoff Scene

2007-09-29T13:20:00.001-04:00

There has never been a better time to be a baseball fan, as many teams have been vying for playoff contention. However with 2 games left, today's games prove to be very important. It's sad the Mets collapsed. I grew up watching them when I was young and still do occasionally.

Have Not Written In Ages

2007-09-28T11:34:00.000-04:00

My desire to write stories and the like is still within me, but I have not written anything for a long time. It could be a factor of laziness and general lack of confidence that is preventing me from doing so. Maybe when I learn to be a better writer I could perhaps continue. Maybe I will just go forth without any worries. Who knows. I have a lot of ideas written down, just need to have the motivation to write again.

Ministry - 10/10

Bill O' Reilly Needs To Be Shunned

2007-09-27T14:09:00.000-04:00

I think the driving force of American ignorance is Bill O' Reilly. He is controversial not in any funny way, but that of pure ignorance. He makes an idiot out of himself when ever he says a word. I don't know why people continue to listen to him. He is an infective virus, and should be quarantined. Sure, there is free speech and all of that, but who is willing to listen to free speech from a malevolent source?

Nine Inch Nails - The Greater Good

Intensity of Flag Football

2007-09-26T22:40:00.000-04:00

About 10 or 20 minutes ago, the flag football game between Wolman 2W and Bradford came to an end. We were defeated pretty badly and we were outmatched. There came a time when I got taken out. I tried to rush the quarterback and ran into their blocker, who was a behemoth. His knee went right into my right thigh and I was in pain. I still am in pain. I spent the rest of the game on the sidelines, writhing and limping. Oh well, that's how it goes. Our last game is versus Team RA. That should be fun.

Sleep

2007-09-25T21:18:00.000-04:00

I overslept my Chemistry lecture at 9:00 AM, I woke up exactly 12 hours ago. This trend has been going on since last year, the utter inability to wake up early. I remember as a high school junior, I had the ability to wake up at 5:00 AM or 6:00AM. I really need to regain this ability for college, though I will not be waking up that early.

Nine Inch Nails - The Wretched

Breeding Grounds For Sickness

2007-09-24T12:58:00.001-04:00

As I realize that more and more people are getting sick, it became clear that institutions of learning like here in JHU, help spread the sickness. Lecture halls are especially effective areas for germ spreading. Everyone is compacted into one area, with little breathing room for oneself. People can be heard coughing, many without covering the germ projections. I am getting sick myself, or it could my allergies. In any case, a lot of people are sick now.

Stone Temple Pilots - Sex Type Thing

Brainfog

2007-09-23T14:51:00.000-04:00

I am in a virtual mental fog right now. Everything seems cloudy and I am very tired. I reckon I slept long enough yesterday. I have a lot of work to do but can't get anything done because of the stupor I am in.

VAST - The Queen Is My Slave

Barry Bonds Is Moving Elsewhere

2007-09-22T10:45:00.000-04:00

I saw on mlb.com that the SF Giants will not take Barry Bonds next year. This is definitely not the end of his playing days as some teams still see him as a useful team asset. The Giants do not want him because of his obvious scandals that we have all heard for the past ??? years.
My question is how would the fans of his potential new team embrace him? This would be an incendiary topic for months to come. Bonds was only popular in San Francisco and virtually berated everywhere else he went. No doubt he is still an offensive threat, the question is which team is willing to go through all of the hassle?

VAST - Intro

Another College Shooting

2007-09-21T14:52:00.000-04:00

I heard that there was a shooting at Delaware State University. This repeats the trend of school violence again, something that doesn't seem to cease. I have no idea how they can prevent things like this in the foreseeable future.

Soreness

2007-09-20T10:38:00.000-04:00

I have been really sore in the past two days and now. I randomly joined an intramural flag football team for our dorm (Wolman) and played in a game. My hamstrings especially are in pain. This is what I get for not exercising and running around for a few days. I want this pain to go away.

Something Corporate - Space

Mathematical Enlightenment

2007-09-19T12:29:00.000-04:00

Today while I was sitting in my Calculus II class, I actually perked up at a few moments. I realized that all formulas that we use in math are derived somehow. Today my professor showed us the distance formula and Pythagorean theorem. It made me realize that everything I learned prior to college is just a simplification. Now we are going into detail of how they were derived. e.g., the distance formula was proved with vectors and the Pythagorean theorem is proved with 4 right triangles set up in a square arrangement. It was the only day I will find math interesting.

The Faint - Southern Belles in London Sing

Postal

2007-09-18T15:20:00.000-04:00

I have to send some papers back to my mom for a scholarship and I need postal things, meaning stamps and envelopes. I can buy some stamps at a vending machine I located but the envelopes are not easy to find. At Barnes and Nobles they cost $9 for 25. I thought that there had to be another way. I have to find an envelope and buy those stamps.

Ministry - Unsung

The Unemployed

2007-09-17T15:55:00.000-04:00

I have not been able to find a job for work study or just for money here at JHU so far. I have attempted to find a job at numerous places within the campus and outside as well. However, my search has always been fruitless. I am the unemployed.

Something Corporate - As You Sleep

Mounds

2007-09-16T22:22:00.000-04:00

I have mounds of work to do, the true nature of college has revealed itself. And I lack motivation to do anything so I am far behind. Feel like crap.

Scooter Defect

2007-09-15T11:10:00.000-04:00

I got my scooter yesterday and was very excited when test riding it. Sadly the rear wheel stopped lighting after a bit. I'm trying to get a replacement wheel.

Writing Is Important

2007-09-13T12:37:00.000-04:00

In my opinion, writing is one of the most, if the not the most important discipline that one could learn in school. Today I realized that the structured 5 paragraph essay preached through my schooling and in the SATs is not a good format. Just to know that I have been writing crap my whole life is disheartening but a good sign for the future. College writing is academic and intelligent writing, no more crap writing.

VAST - Be With Me

Patriots Controversy

2007-09-12T21:28:00.000-04:00

In football, the New England Patriots have been caught stealing signs from the Jets during the game last Sunday. On ESPN, they were talking about the issue almost every half hour. I never really liked the Patriots, mainly due to jealousy and being a Jets fan.
I don't really see why the Patriots have to steal signs to win a game. They have been one of the best NFL teams for the last few years, this act of cheating is really low. The main concern is if the Patriots have been videotaping the signs during the past few years, to win the Super Bowl.
I think there should be a real draconian punishment for this act. No one day suspensions or anything that lenient. There should be harsh penalties. Knowing how teams favor favorites, there will probably be a one day punishment.

9/11 Generation

2007-09-11T14:48:00.000-04:00

The world would not be the same place it is now if 9/11/01 was a normal day. The world would be a whole lot less paranoid, security would be much looser, and war would not have been fought. Things would be happy-go-lucky in a sense. But they are not.
I am part of Generation Y, the 9/11 influenced children. I remember I was in 7th grade those 6 years ago in my Language Arts class. Things were confusing back then, I had no idea what happened till I got home. Kids were being picked up by their parents, one by one. The last group of us that remained till the end went home to witness what had happened. There was chaos and confusion everywhere I looked. The smoke was billowing through the skies of Jersey City. I also recall the TV was down, and everything was full of static. Couldn't really watch the news correctly.
I remember during that time, their was a huge sense of American nationalism. I am no longer a fan of nationalism of any kind now, but I saw American flag cutouts or flags themselves on car windows. I guess vulnerability has the power to compel people to be nationalist.
But anyways, 9/11/01 is a day I certainly will never forget. It had such a powerful impact on the world, one that will never revert.

CAKE - Comfort Eagle

Reporter Attacked

2007-09-10T22:36:00.000-04:00

Haven't really written anything meaningful as of late so here goes. I saw a vid on CNN of a reporter getting attacked by crazed rugby fans in Australia. I don't believe he was seriously hurt. But anyways, I felt that the whole situation was horrible. The reporter was doing his job and he gets humiliated and assaulted. The thing is that reporters cannot fight back, as it means job suicide. The guy did not fight off the attackers, as they continued the onslaught.
Those lowlife rugby fans apparently escaped, but they will be caught eventually, as they were videotaped on live television. Hope they die or something.

The Real Stuff

2007-09-10T00:03:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow officially kicks off a full week of classes. That means I have an arduous 3 days of work before having my 2 easier days. Also my adventure into the woods will begin too, without my scooter. So the daily grind of college work will hit me hard and fast.

Scooter Time

2007-09-09T01:03:00.000-04:00

I haven't gotten my scooter yet but it has been confirmed for shipping. Can't wait to use it, it is my first time ever using a scooter. I never had one when they were the craze back when I was a 6th grader. But this time I actually need it since I have to get to class on time (fucked up my path unknowingly). The wheels light up apparently.

Poor Work Ethic

2007-09-07T01:50:00.000-04:00

I have poor work ethic. Took me like 5 hrs to do my homework today which is like 1+ pages.

Music File Logjam Thing

2007-09-06T00:11:00.000-04:00

I won't be able to utilize my iTunes for a bit since I have to separate the files now. I am putting the songs according to artists and making a whole set of new folders. This process is very exhaustive but it is all for a good cause.

School Year Begins

2007-09-05T17:59:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the first day of classes here at Hopkins. I had to make a last minute switch to include Intro to Bioethics, since my Tropical Disease Seminar was cancelled unexpectedly. So know I spent more to buy a new Bioethics book. I'm really low on cash now, wonder how long I can last.

Def Leppard - Under My Wheels

Hunger Strike

2007-09-03T07:38:00.000-04:00

Know the song Hunger Strike by Temple of the Dog? Well that's how I've felt for two mornings in a row, waking early and being very hungry. The food at the Fresh Food Cafe is mad good however, so it's like a delay for reward.

Book Shopping

2007-09-02T08:38:00.000-04:00

Buying books for college can be a real hassle for those who lack funds. Taking 4-7 classes can really take a toll on the wallet. I searched around Amazon.com for some books and will buy the rest from the local Barnes and Nobles. Never knew that a seminar needed me to get so many books!

New Life

2007-09-01T14:36:00.000-04:00

So now I am writing from 213B Wolman Hall in JHU in Baltimore. All my things (nothing of importance) are here now and I have a new station. I met my roommate Baris and the other two students living in my suite, Tom and Brendan. Things seem to be going well for now, as everything is great. Still have to get acquainted to the Hopkins life so yeah.

New Beginnings

2007-08-31T09:35:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow I will be in Baltimore for a first taste of college. This is a very turbulent, but rewarding time, as many new exciting things are to come. I have no expectations of anything, everything will just be spontaneous. I guess I am ready for it all, maybe.

VAST - I Need To Say Goodbye

Elements of Writing

2007-08-30T09:06:00.000-04:00

I've been interested in writing things for about over a year now and I've been reading an E-book by James Frey called How To Write A Damn Good Novel. I'm learning a lot of rudimentary things that I must employ in my writing. The reason my attempts at writing have all failed is because I lack this basic understanding. I must finish reading this so I can get on with my saga.

Damn Car Alarm Keeps Going Off Getting Me and Fellow Neighbors Pissed Off

More Korean Hostages Freed

2007-08-29T09:49:00.000-04:00

One current event that I really felt bad for was when a group of South Korean humanitarian/religious group was abducted by the Taliban. It was the same song and dance we are all familiar with by now, capture innocent people caught between the crossfire and work out diplomacy.
Even though two men were killed before the Korean diplomats arrived, a pullout deal was worked out and the remaining hostages will/were freed. This is somewhat good news coming out of a horrific war/catastrophe/atrocity.

VAST - Candle

Crapshack

2007-08-28T10:08:00.000-04:00

In less than a week I will be in college and be able to leave my home once and for all. This ultimate liberation is something I have craved for many years. I have become somewhat insane living in my house for so long. It is time for remedy.

Ministry - Nursing Home

Bush Cabinet Falling Apart

2007-08-27T10:15:00.001-04:00

Just noticing some breaking news about Attorney General Alberto Gonzales resigning. It seems as if numerous members of the Bush cabinet is stepping down. A few weeks ago, Karl Rove submitted his resignation and now Gonzales. According to the article, a whole slew of others had quit last year, including Donald Rumsfeld, something I was unaware of until now. An administration filled with so much scandal is surely responsible for all of these resignations.

InkBall: The Ultimate Game

2007-08-26T18:13:00.000-04:00

After being excited for so long about Windows Vista, I come to the conclusion that it is actually very confusing and unneccesary in some aspects. But one thing that was good was the preset game of Inkball . Preset games from XP and before were crap games like Minesweeper and some card games. Vista has the games from before and more. InkBall is very addictive and novel, in you actually use a pen cursor to draw lines on the screen. The goal is to use the free drawn lines to direct a colored ball into the right hole. This game is very entertaining and is overall great.

Nine Inch Nails - Kinda I Want To

Rare Look Into Politics

2007-08-25T09:57:00.000-04:00

For some odd reason I decided to look into politics this morning. I see politics as an unnecessary evil of sorts, but it is "necessary" for control. Anyways I had some long-running thoughts about the Democrats running for office. The main headliners are obviously Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama, being female and black, respectively. I always believed that this combination will lead to an inevitable rift when it comes time to vote, since there are large groups for each side.
I also had a thought that Clinton and Obama are leading the vote because of being female and black, respectively. I can't really say that this is completely true, as I do not pay attention to politics. But I doubt that people are actually looking into the issues here. They are voting on impulse based on who the politician is. I can't really say I support anyone since I don't know anything.

Secret Chiefs 3 - Combat For The Angel

Texas Executes 400th Inmate

2007-08-24T08:34:00.000-04:00

Saw an article on CNN about execution number 400 in the state of Texas. This made me wonder why there hasn't been more. There has been so much crime occuring in the US, crimes worthy of the death penalty. My belief in the death penalty is one of the reasons why I do not stray completely leftwards. I believe people cannot reform completely and they deserve to die for their crime.
The topic of death penalty has been very controversial through the years. While some states do not have death penalty, others are considering remaking the chemical formula of the injection. A very complicated this issue is, with salvation, reform, etc.

Weezer - Zep Jamb

Video Promotion

2007-08-23T09:09:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to help promote this video created by William Reynolds. If anyone knew him, he was into film making and that is basically his career path for the future. He made a video recently called Lysergia and I believe it is quite good. Here is the link.

Weezer - The Damage In Your Heart

Seattle Like

2007-08-22T12:21:00.000-04:00

I don't remember the last time I saw sunshine in Jersey City. Everyday has either been cloudy or rainy. Also, it is much colder as it is about 60 something degrees here in August. Odd weather has become more and more prevalent over the last few years.

Religion Discussions

2007-08-21T09:54:00.000-04:00

I was reading this article just now, and it was about Madeleine Albright saying how religion is necessary in political diplomacy. She basically said that to correctly conduct foreign policy, one must understand religion's role in the whole spectrum, and how it impacts the lives of people in society. If people were more educated about religion, there would be a whole lot less confusion, and things would be better than they are now.
I actually do agree with this. I believe that there is a lot of ignorance from all three sides of the Abrahamic religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. People from each side base others on limited knowledge and mainly stereotypes. This is why there is so much hatred and bloodshed.
Though Albright's message may be heeded by the diplomats, it cannot be applied to a majority of civilians. Most people do not have the resource to learn about other religions: whether the resource be time, money, etc. What I am saying is even though the policymakers would be fully understanding, most of the general public will not. And this will lead to more unrest and ultimately anger at higher officials.
If every religious person took time to learn about other religions (other than their own), there would be more understanding and less ignorance. But this goal is out of reach, it simply cannot be done. Expect these religious wars in the Middle East and beyond to continue for years and years.

Mr. Bungle - None of Them Knew They Were Robots

New Cellphone

2007-08-20T09:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I got a new cellphone, the Sony Ericsson w850i. This phone has a lot of features that I have yet to figure out at the moment. But yeah, having a new cellphone is always an exciting thing. The sad part is that I will be tired of such a great phone in the future.

VAST - What Else Do I Need

Two Weeks Left

2007-08-18T09:21:00.000-04:00

In exactly two weeks, I should be in Baltimore by now. Yes, the summer is drawing to a quick end and the college seed is about to be grown. I still do not have some electronic needs that I have to get real soon. I actually began packing clothes yesterday, to prevent the last few days from being too congested. But yeah, my time in Jersey City is about to end.

Queens of the Stone Age - Blood is Love

Matlock

2007-08-17T18:43:00.000-04:00

It may sound odd, but one of my favorite shows I watched as a child was Matlock. I always found the suspense very captivating when I was young, though I did not know what was really going on in the show. I tried looking up episodes to watch on Youtube and on Torrent sites, but the searches always turned up empty. I was only able to watch the theme on Youtube. Even the theme is really good. But yeah, I prefer older shows and sitcoms to the reality tv explosion of the last few years.

Sparta - Vacant Skies

Replacement Post - The Scourge of Internet

2007-08-16T18:42:00.000-04:00

(This is a replacement post)

I've been on Youtube and recently I have noticed more and more hackers. They would post replies like "if you like this video you should visit my site". I believe those links have viruses that will totally screw up someone's computer. These types of posts appear on about 70% of the videos I've seen. This is reminescent of people putting ads in myspace comments.
In my opinion, these hackers are part of the dregs of society, in the same level as all the rapists, murderers, and rascists int he world. Sadly, the trend of luring unsuspecting webusers to malicious sites seems to be increasing. I think the site administrators should inspect the bad links and ban the users who post these malicious links. However, this does nothing, as another Youtube account is very easy to make. These people cannot be stopped.

Kid Rock - Rollin'

College Clubs

2007-08-15T14:14:00.000-04:00

Got something from JHU today about orientation and some volunteer clubs that I could join. I probably will be involved in something but I'm not sure what to do yet. My internet use has now been limited greatly becuase I my sister is always using it. Wish I had a router.

World's Oldest Person Dies

2007-08-14T10:11:00.000-04:00

I look at cnn.com and I learn that the world oldest person has died. She was 114 years old, a Japanese woman. That means she was born in 1893. Such marvels of longevity fascinate me very much because I never envisioned anyone living to that age. At most, I see myself living into 70s or 80s. Being really old is like a double-edged sword. The good comes from living and being able to experience more of the world. The bad comes from dealing with all the sickness and frailty that comes with old age. It's a tradeoff. With the medical technologies becoming more precocious, the newer generations are expected to live longer. But then again, the newer generations are more obese and are more unhealthy.

American Hi-Fi - Another Perfect Day

Need to Get Started

2007-08-13T10:43:00.001-04:00

While I do have a lot of provisions and supplies for college, I am still ill-equipped with electronics. I have to get a laptop, cellphone, and MP3 player in the 3 or so weeks remaining. For the laptop, there are so many choices to choose from, that I am undecided still. The decision might come down to the last week I have. The cellphone issue is that I do not know what is good, so I am undecided there. As for MP3 player, I am looking at a ZenCreative MP3 player, since those do have good products for their prices. I am not following the IPod trend.

The Ataris - San Dimas High School Football Rules

Relegated to the Basement

2007-08-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

Today my sister comes back from a study abroad program in China. So that means I will be moved to the basement, where my room will be. There is a long cleanup and moving process, to make sure all of my things are downstairs. The only reason I a going downstairs is because it is naturally cool in temperature there. Since the other rooms do not have AC upstairs, living in the basement is the only feasible option. Yeah so I'll be off.

Faith No More - Epic

Headache

2007-08-11T10:09:00.000-04:00

I have had a headache since the day of the flood and it has lingered for a while. While it is not unbearable, I'm afraid this could lead to worse things. Can't seem to find a remedy that works for ridding this. Feels like a vice slowly crushing my head from both sides. Yeah.

VAST - Tycoon

Rudimentary Info

2007-08-10T09:34:00.000-04:00

There's nothing much to talk about now, so I might as well just talk about some things that may seem confusing about this blog.
WTF is Cheap Nihilism? Well it was a phrase I picked up from Gravity's Rainbow. Someone who has cheap nihilism, "has never quite been to hell but speaks as if he's one of the most fallen." In many cases this is me, as I often overdramatise things. However that flood the other day, that was no dramatization.
Ddevilisafterme obviously reads out as "the devil is after me." "Ddevil" is a song by System of a Down that I discovered only about 1 month ago. I thought it was a good song. In my infernal paranoia, I often am afraid of occult or demonic phenomena, and I always feel something is following me. I am insane after all.
Granfalloons and Ice-Nine are obviously things discussed in Cat's Cradle. That's all that there is I believe.

Oh yeah, this will be an everyday blog. I will attempt to be the "Cal Ripkin Jr. of blogging." If I'm not blogging I am:

Away from a computer for a whole day.
Injured somewhere.
Dead.
Lazy and gave up on the blog.

Mr. Bungle - None of Them Knew They Were Robots

Barry Bonds

2007-08-09T10:06:00.000-04:00

I'm a very well-rounded baseball fan as I not only concentrate on a particular team, but I know what's going on for most of them. A couple days ago, Barry Bonds became the all-time home run leader. I am sure that almost everyone in the US and some worldwide know who Barry Bonds is because of his alleged steroid use.
I always believed that he did use steroids, and so does a majority of baseball fans. However, supporters of Barry Bonds always say that there is no hard evidence against him ever using a banned substance. Baseball commentators and analysts are also forced to say this, or they would probably lose their jobs if they said Barry Bonds used steroids.
I say that the only way to get rid of this whole issue is to test Barry Bonds, which I think was deliberately ignored because of the influence of others. What I'm trying to say is that because Barry Bonds is who he is, he was never tested for steroids. Players who get caught using illegal substances are usually nondescript guys who could be easily replaced. Recently, a player named Neifi Perez was suspended 25 games for testing positive for a stimulant. Then he failed a second test which got him banned for 80 more games. They tested him twice while not even testing Barry Bonds.
The reason IMO of this is because big money players help a franchise and the MLB itself earn much revenue. Many baseball fans go to games just to see the star players. Also merchandise, like jerseys are based on these important players. I don't think I have seen many Neifi Perez jerseys being worn by people. So yeah, this whole steroids issue links in with economic interest, as well as other factors.
Barry Bonds should be tested for steroids, as it is only fair, he probably never will though.

Mastodon - Slickleg

Singing In The Rain

2007-08-08T08:54:00.000-04:00

So I wake up due to tremendous thunderstorms at around 6AM and decide to go take a piss. While I was doing so I hear a water pump, pumping water out. This meant that the basement was flooded. And I check and it was flooded, and the situation was exacerbating. The knee-deep sludge water was unrelenting, ready to drown me. Things were looking grim as the water was about 2ft deep and I was attempting to clog the toilet and shower simultaneously, in vain. But then the rain stopped, and the water at the peak. Then I spent 2hrs bailing out water, cleaning up sediment, and moving things outside. And thats about it. I am taxed, but there is more to come in the cleanup process. Worst of all, I won't have a place to sleep, because I was suppose to move into the basement next week to sleep.

I'm New Here

2007-08-07T22:09:00.000-04:00

I am Jeff, from Jersey City, NJ. I'm new to this site, but not to blogging. I have written blogs in Xanga, Myspace, and Facebook. I write about totally random things that just cross my mind whenever. Somethings are important while others not so important. I will try to make this blog different from the other blogs I maintain regularly. Not much to say write now, except I hope I get to maintain this blog for a while and let it document my life. About to enter college, it will be a challenging and exciting experience, so yeah there should be a lot to write about. Until then...

P.S. - I always have my Itunes on when I'm on the computer so I will post what song I am listening to now.

KMFDM - Bullets, Bombs, Bigotry