Sunday, November 24, 2019

Graduation Ceremony Program ~ Al Collins Graphic Design School

As I continue to go through items to eliminate unnecessary items, I found this Graduation Ceremony program from Al Collins Graphic Design School from 1999. It's not from my year (Haven't found the one from my year) so really there's no need to have kept this at all, however went ahead and scanned it to remember it. Maybe someone from that year may want to reference it.





Friday, November 22, 2019

Web Design Considerations to New Technology ~ A 2002 MKT110 Assignment

As I keep going through stuff to eliminate the clutter, I keep finding things that I've kept unnecessarily. Like the printed version of an assignment of the MKT110 class from 2002.

On this assignment I had one spelling error, however no points were deducted and I earned the 40/40 possible for this one. For this paper the APA format was used. Two of the four references were from online sources of which one was a NY Times article by Lisa Guerney and the second was New Media Options column by Elizabeth Brown Lawler. The NY Times one can still be referenced, however no longer with the original link from 2002 and has a paywall. The site for the New Media Options column is no longer able to be referenced at the original link. I still have both of them printed. I thought of scanning it and uploading the whole thing along with the articles, however a search of my old files and I located the original word document and due to copyright decided against the scanning and including the complete online articles.

Here's a photo collage of the paper and just the heading of the articles as reference.



Except for extracting/blocking my name, not including the top right page count as per APA format, and of course some slight spacing differences since this is on one long blog instead of printed with the APA format, it is as originally written and submitted for your reading pleasure.




Running head: WEB DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS TO NEW TECHNOLOGY


Web Design Considerations to New Technology


prepared

for

Professor Marc Rogers

by

Xxxx Xxxxxxx

at

University of Advancing Computer Technology

in

MKT110

section

TC153-02

Due Date: April 3, 2002


Abstract

New technologies enhancing the way web pages are designed are ever evolving. They allow the designers with an infinite number of possibilities to express their visions fully. The growth of these “enhanced” web pages can be seen throughout the Internet, already. The addition of these new technologies to web sites are becoming increasingly important in attracting new users and keeping the existing customers coming back. The headline on the article by Lisa Guernsey (2002) for www.nytimes.com, presenting the idea of a maturing web where fun is “hard to find”, is a perfect example of the need for web sites to include the usage of these new technologies. Although it seems as a good idea to option in to the inclusion of designing a web page with the use of new and growing technologies there are some negative situations to consider when using them. The designer will need to explore the positive and negative effects of implementing the use of the technologies, and ultimately attempt to predict whether it will be beneficial to the web site.

Web Design Considerations to New Technology

     As technology advances, becoming faster, more efficient, and reliable, there is also a growth for the creation of new web design. The advanced technologies give the designers an endless of possibilities of presenting their work. Streaming audio and video, online games, and interactive pages are just a few of the growing number of features a designer can add to a site. All this exciting elements adding to the online experience are not always the best route to take. There are many considerations why these enhancements may turn out non-beneficial. Such considerations are browser compatibility, file sizes, user connectivity, download times, etceteras. When presented with the idea of web page design with the use of new available features, it is good to have a concise idea of the implications they may bring.
The first thing that the designer needs to do is assess the need for added features on a site. Once there is a need established, the designer needs to consider the factors these will encompass. File size is one of the many considerations. “Things have to look good at a much lower resolution than designers are accustomed to in printed work. And the slower-than-the-speed-of-light rates at which data can be moved from one part of the globe to another over the Internet make it crucial to make the audiovisual components of the message as compact as possible” (Davis, J and Meritt, S, 1998). This is true whether the files being used are video, audio, animations, or picture files. Although, Internet access technologies such as satelite, cable, and dsl are making the idea of slow file transfers history, it will be a while until these mediums become mainstream and accessible to everyone. Thus, designing for the lower bandwidth user is always a good choice, unless the target audience is that who is at the edge with the new technologies.
Another factor to consider is browser compatibility. The major browsers in use are Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator, and Opera. Although these browsers work similarly and handle many of the basic functions that a designer might instruct, there are some things that are better executed with one browser or the other. An example of this would be the level of compatibility when using Cascading Style Sheets. “The most popular browsers support plug-ins, which work with the browser to display additional formats” (DiNucci, D. and M and Stiles, L., 1997). Some of these include Quicktime, Shockwave, and Flash. Flash is being seen more and more throughout the web creating a sense of distinction between the “regular” web pages. There is no one right or wrong enhancement to use when implementing these added features on a web site, as long as the right message gets delivered and understood. “Exciting animated sequences can capture the attention of the audience” (Lawler, E.B., 1996), and establish returning users. This statement grows truer when the need for something flashy is what will give your site that extra inch that was needed.
As more technologies become available and the use of plug-ins on browsers increases, the web designer is able to deliver an increasingly interactive web design. Plug-ins create a new wave of possibilities yet they may not be the best solution. Lisa Guernsey states (2002), “Other users say they are less inclined to hunt for innovative sites because many of them require plg-ins or browser updates that force users to bothersome downloading. Entertainment sites, for example, usually require a program like Quicktime, and even if Web surfers take the time to download a copy, they are likely to be coajoled later into downloading and updating.” So, when considering the option of using plug-ins to enhance a web site it is really up to the designer and ultimately the owner of the web site to see whether implementing these type of features will be beneficial.
“Successful Web design includes the art of creating pages that can be viewed successfully under a number of different conditions” (DiNucci, D. and M and Stiles, L., 1997). A designer has no control over the specifications of the user’s platform or resolution at which their monitors may be set. This will affect how the user views the web site. Whether the user has graphics turned on or of on the browser and whether the most similar settings of typeface, for example, are left at the default of changed to the user’s preference. When exploring to new technologies it is always a good idea to keep in mind the lower end user and the limitations that their equipment can bring when viewing your web site.
In the past few years, there have been many developments of technologies that can enhance a web page. Flash, Quicktime, Shockwave, any others have given ground to creating much more dynamic web sited. These programs, plug-ins, browsers, etceteras, can add some great interactive and attractive features on a web site. When designing with these, it is important to remember what the implications may be upon implementing such enhancements. It is also important to remember that just because they are available, it does not mean that they should be used all the time. A professor once used the acronym KISS, meaning Keep It Simple Stupid. That is a good rule of thumb to take into account. When the web site calls for the new technologies to be used, the proper research as to which would work best for the project at hand. Knowing which tools to use for the job and which will work is essential for the ultimate goal of bringing a web site to life. And that, is a good thing.

References

     Davis, J & Meritt, S. (1998). The Web Design Wow! Book. Berkeley, CA: Peachpit
Press.

     DiNucci, D, Guidice, M., & Stiles, L. (1997) Elements of Web Design. Berkely, CA:
Peachpit Press.

     Guernesey, L. (2002). As the Web Matures, Fun is Hard to Find. [On-line]. Available:
http://www.nytimes.com/2002/03/28/technology/circuits/28WEBB.html

     Lawler, E.B. (1996). New Media Options. [On-line]. Available: http://www.iglou.com

Capricus

Going through some old school papers (1998-2000) as I work on de-cluttering, and found this half page printed info of Capricus.

When I was younger I used to imagine characters for video games. It's from so long ago that I think this is one that I came up with (let me know if you've heard of this somewhere else) for Mortal Kombat since it includes Earth Realm, however, it may have been also for Soul Calibur from the last bit of description. I couldn't find any info doing a search with what I have on the printed out paper. Also, the font makes me think I might have used a typewriter instead of a computer and printer.




Capricus

Defender of the Earth Realm.Under a pursue to defend it he is transported to a deserted place. He now fights in order to same the Earth's Realm. Friend of the ancient people dying in Mars.

Real Namer - Brutus Terpady
Height - 6'10"
Weight - 289 Lbs.
Ability - Elements of the Earth. (Earth, Fire, Wind, Water)

Originally came from China, but real birth place is unknown...

Who am I?

As I was clearing out old papers from when I attended the University of Advancing Computer Technology, now called University of Advancing Technology, I found a short piece I wrote titled 'Who am I?'. It wasn't dated but was in the school papers from the year 2000, therefore it must be from then, between an assignment from PSY101. This may have been related to that class. Although, the actual assignment was writing a paper using the American Psychological Association (APA) Format.



Who am I?

I am a part of the ever-flowing energy of everyday. Adding a balance of both positive and negative energy. A grain of sand on the seashore at the end of our galaxy. Becoming a more productive human being to help contribute to the everyday journey of knowing oneself better to explain the unexplained of finding a purpose of like. I am part of a purpose much higher than can be conceived contributing the constant energy flow. I am unbalancing the energy of the cosmos, but with the cosmos' rule I will receive back what I give threefold. It's the law of nature. The law of energy available to the use of anyone who learns to manipulate it. The whole purpose of a balance of good and bad energy. 



Eliminate the Clutter!

One of the things I have the most difficulty with is eliminating, getting rid of stuff. I'll hang on to something for a number of of reasons. I'll keep items that have no meaning (empty tissue boxes, worn clothes, broken mugs, newspapers/magazines/books, etc.) because of an idea to reuse/re-purpose/recycle in a creative way, or, it may have an emotional meaning (the first time I went to "fill in the blank"), and yet others because I just liked them at a time and what if I like the item again.

I find now that physical clutter also clutters the mind. Additionally, purchasing items that get little to no use is a waste of money.

One of the ways I have found that I can eliminate physical clutter is taking a photo. There's that saying, "Take a picture, it'll last longer!", which rings true to me eliminating items. I'll sometimes add the photos of them on my Instagram, and on some will all add a tag #FotosDeCosasEliminadasParaRecordarlas which translates to "Photos of Eliminated Things to Remember Them".

A second way I have found useful in getting rid of stuff is donating them. Usable clothing items and the like, I'll gather and take to a Big Brothers, Big Sisters donation bin. In my area there is a place called Treasures 4 Teachers, where I take other material that can be used, re-purposed, or sold. As a last option I sometimes will also take items to Goodwill. Occasionally I will take items back home to the border-town I am from and give the items to my mother or aunt for them to sell in a yard sale or donate to church on the town across the border.

It's a work in progress. 

One thing that is different to get rid of is written things. Something like a paragraph, a poem, a thought. I've found from time to time written things that I want to eliminate for the physicality of it, however don't want to forget the written material itself. The solution for this I am finding will be a combination of a photo/image of the physically written item and then blog/write it out including the image of the item. A very noncommittal maybe in the future also create a video reading it or to music.

So look for some of this from time to time. 

#Clutter #DeClutter #MindOverMattter

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Halloween 2008!



=========================
Taken on October 2008
=========================

The previous year was a scary clown, so this time a more kid friendly clown. Less decorations overall and I forgot to take a picture of myself with this entrance, however I did dress up the same as for my work costume contest. The last photo here is what I dressed up as with a scary pumpkin monster.

Music: Two different ones that not sure from what game or place were extracted from. I slowed them both down a bit to make them creepier. The first one is Science Fiction, which you may recognize as used it at regular speed on the second half of my Halloween Costume Contest 2008 photo video. The second song has a file name of Resmus with title of Research. If you know where they may be from let me know.

#Halloween #Decorations #Costumes

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Halloween Costume Contest 2008


=========================
Taken on October 2008
=========================

These are photos from the 2008 Halloween Costume Contest from my then place of employment. I have photos of really just the team I was in. Wasn't able to obtain the photos of all participants. I was the evil pumpkin monster.  

Music: Two different ones that not sure from what game or place were extracted from as all I have is the file name I saved them with. The first is mystspce and the second Science Fiction. If you know what they are or where they are from, let me know.

#Halloween #Costumes

Sunday, November 03, 2019

Halloween 2007


=========================
Taken on October 2007
=========================

Collage of photos from Halloween 2007! 

The main focus this year was the spooky clown by the entrance. It looks fantastic. Overall though less decorations than the previous year. I took less photos also.

Music: A combination I made of parts of Empty (Hideaway) by Sonique from the album titled Hear My Cry and Chant of the Awakening by Arcana from the album titled Cantar de Procella.

#Halloween #Decorations

Halloween Costume Contest 2007


=========================
Taken on October 2007
=========================

These are photos from the 2007 Halloween Costume Contest from my then place of employment. I wasn't able to obtain photos of all participants. I was wearing the reaper with additional demon head.  

Music: Phantom Sentinels from the Gates of Delirium album by Midnight Syndicate.

#Halloween #Costumes

Friday, November 01, 2019

Hello Kitty Fairy Cat! - Halloween 2006


=========================
Taken on October 2006
=========================

Some photos of Hello Kitty with her Fairy Wings for Halloween 2006!

Music: An old midi file I had with title theone. If anyone knows it, let me know to update this.

Thursday, August 08, 2019

2011 Phoenix Annual Parade of the Arts



=========================
Taken on November 12, 2011
=========================

This is a compilation of the 9 videos (previously uploaded individually) I took plus a handful of photos. 

Music:  At the beginning and during the photos it is Arrival by Midnight Syndicate from the Gates of Deliruim album.

#ArtParade

Sunday, August 04, 2019

2010 Phoenix Annual Parade of the Arts!


=========================
Taken on November 13, 2010
=========================

I discovered the Phoenix Parade of the Arts (PAPA) while cruising in Phoenix.  

This is a compilation of the 3 videos (previously uploaded individually) I took plus a handful of photos. The color was adjusted to see them a bit better. 

Music: The first 10 seconds is from Vueltas en el Aire by Thalia from the 2002 self titled album.

#ArtParade

Jay Brannan - Always, Then, and Now Tour - A Photo Collage


=========================
Taken on August 02, 2014
=========================

Here is a collage of a few photos I took of Jay Brannan at Pub Rock Live in Phoenix, AZ during his 2014 - Always, Then, + Now Tour.

Music: Always, Then, & Now by Jay Brannan can be found on his Always, Then, & Now album.

https://jaybrannan.com/ 

#JayBrannan #AlwaysThenNow

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Seattle USA and Vancouver CanadaTrip


=========================
Taken on July 2003
=========================

Photos of trip with my mother to visit cousins who lived it Seattle, WA, US at the time. During the visit we took a trip together to Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Music: Soft Mistake by Lamb which can be found on their album titled Fear of Fours.

Thursday, June 06, 2019

Jay Brannan Rob Me Blind


=========================
Taken on August 02, 2014
=========================
Here is Jay Brannan singing Rob Me Blind at Pub Rock Live in Phoenix, AZ during his 2014 - Always, Then, + Now Tour.

Music: Rob Me Blind by Jay Brannan can be found on his Rob Me Blind album.


#JayBrannan #RobMeBlind #AlwaysThenNow

Monday, May 27, 2019

Jay Brannan Beautifully


=========================
Taken on August 02, 2014
=========================
Here is Jay Brannan singing Beautiully at Pub Rock Live in Phoenix, AZ during his 2014 - Always, Then, + Now Tour.

Music: Beautifully by Jay Brannan can be found on his In Living Color EP and on Rob Me Blind album.


#JayBrannan #Beautifully #AlwaysThenNow

Sunday, May 26, 2019

Spyder and Hello Kitty


=========================
Taken on April 03, 2006
=========================

Photos of Spyder being candy curious and Hello Kitty just being chill.

Music: Spianato - That's the name of the midi file, however not really sure what it is or where it's from. Let me know if you know where it's from and/or the correct title.

Saturday, May 25, 2019

Jay Brannan - Blue-Haired Lady



=========================
Taken on August 02, 2014
=========================
Here is Jay Brannan singing Blue-Haired Lady at Pub Rock Live in Phoenix, AZ during his 2014 - Always, Then, + Now Tour.

Music: Blue-Haired Lady by Jay Brannan can be found on the Always, Then, & Now album.


#JayBrannan #BlueHairedLady #AlwaysThenNow