text:
Needs to be a juried show
Posted 29 April 2012 - 08:20 PM
Instead, I was overwhelmed with the sheer volume of...everything. Most of it not very good, and a lot of it not all that creative.
How many print artists do you really NEED in an Artist Alley? Ironed plastic bead magnet-makers? Crochet figures? Jewelry makers? Button-makers? Independent comic artists? How many polar fleece hats with ears or faux fur tails does one need before enough is enough? I could count on one hand the number of truly original booths out there. Everything else was such a repetition of other booths, it all ran together. I ended up spending much less money at ACEN than I have at smaller cons' Artist Alleys, because it was simply too big, confusing, annoying, and repetitive.
Some of the booths that contained popular crafts showed awesome craftsmanship and attention to detail, but a lot of it didn't. Just because you got hold of a button machine doesn't mean your art works on a button. Just because you have access to an iron and plastic beads doesn't mean your stuff is worth putting on my fridge. Just because you wrote a comic book doesn't mean I should care.
And this brings me to another issue with Artist Alley: the attitude of some of the artists. Especially at this con, artists are not unique and special snowflakes. Chances are, there are a dozen others who have done the same kind of art, perhaps even the exact same art, and done it better. I don't deserve an annoyed look when I interrupt an artist's sketching to ask a question or see their work in progress to gauge whether I want a commission. I saw a lot of bored sketch artists there. Maybe that means there needs to be less sketch artists.
And of course, much of the art wasn't about anime at all. I realize there's been a general trend toward lumping all forms of geek culture with anime. But seriously, how much Dr. Who and steampunk is acceptable at an anime con before it stops being, well, an anime con?
Another gripe, although this one has nothing to do with the artists and everything to do with ACEN in general: the clientele on Sunday was the sketchiest I've ever seen. I felt like I was at a flea market, only with people who had bathed less frequently. I was there Saturday and came back Sunday to pick up a comission, and I felt sorry for the artists. I noticed some who were packing up early because the people with Sunday badges were so not worth their time. I saw congoers bashing even the awesome art out there because they couldn't buy things that probably took a lot of time and energy to make for a buck. I saw people who had no clue who Hello Kitty was. Hello...freakin'...Kitty. Let that sink in a minute. I don't know what ACEN can do to weed out these people, but I'm guessing it has to do with ACEN's reputation in general, attracting people who are just there to behave badly instead of appreciating the art and craft of anime and all things related. ACEN's gone for quantity over quality for some years now, this is apparently the result.
Anyway, my solution to the issue of Artist Alley overload: jury the show. It's how big art shows do it, it's how ACEN needs to do it. The alley should be half its current size, probably less. There should be no more than 1-3 artists who make similar art, with the possible exception of comic book artists (and even then, I would limit the number in each genre), in which case I would suggest they get their own corner of artist alley. Each artist should be required to send in photos of their work, photos of their works in progress, photos of their working space, and an application that describes some of their methods, supplies, and design philosophies--if they don't have a design philosophy, that's a dead ringer for someone who shouldn't be there. They should have to submit photos of their setups at past cons or other shows. Yes, this discriminates against those who are new to Artist Alley, but really, ACEN is not the venue for the inexperienced. Artist Alley staff should evaluate those entries and choose the best ones, with perhaps a small waiting list. This will eliminate a lot of the quality issues and make Artist Alley a more enjoyable place to shop.
I hope that Artist Alley next year is a better experience for everyone. A lot of the artists I talked to were frustrated, bored, and annoyed with both the overwhelming nature of Artist Alley as well as the Sunday clientele. That's not fair to the people who spend the money to get into a show like this, or to the people who have money to spend and are too overwhelmed to spend it.
Posted 29 April 2012 - 09:13 PM
It is the artist's responsibility to make sure their work stands out from everyone else. A lot of that does come down to not only what you make, but how you display it and how you present yourself. It seems to me that your complaint then is with artists that you feel don't put in that extra effort to make their work stand out from the crowd. Fine, you have the right to have that opinion. Simply don't buy from them then.
As for content getting away from anime, firstly, that's something that's been happening long before and well outside the Artist Alley. It happens with all conventions. People have different interests, and go to events with similar cultures while still maintaining those interests. If you removed any merchandise from the convention, people would still attend in cosplays and swag that weren't strictly anime. Can you really blame an artist for going along with what is popular?
It seems to me your complaints are more aimed at the convention culture in general. If you really have that big of a problem with it, then simply don't go. Otherwise, you'll simply have to accept the fact that while ACen and the Artist Alley are about fun, they are still a business venture, and a business MUST appeal to the widest audience possible in order to grow and thrive.
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Posted 29 April 2012 - 09:19 PM
ACEN was my first con and I enjoyed it and learned a lot from it. I think a juried show would take away from allowing artists that experience of a bigger con and limiting the amount of work. It's up to the attendees to choose who they wish to buy from and if they don't feel like a piece of art should be bought based on quality or the medium presented -- i.e., you suggested how some art should not be on buttons -- then simply don't buy from them. It's a learning experience for the artists as well as the con goers.
I do agree though that there should be some limits. I had the lovely experience of being next to an artist who had 3 tables, was by herself, only sold prints, and said prints were all the generic face shape, type and style. Since she was the entire section of the table next to me and her display was much taller, I felt that mine got overwhelmed. I think artists should be limited to 1 or 2 tables, unless they actually have several people in their studio and can branch to three. Having that many for one person prevents other artists from getting in and it's rather repetitive. EDIT: Sorry, I was under the impression they were still togther! My bad! So I can't group them together like that, although I will say it was still a mass of the same style art in a very small space =p -- Not to mention, her husband/boyfriend was an aisle away with his own set of tables selling the same thing...
All in all, the con is what you make of it. I had a lot of fun and enjoyed chatting with most of the fellow artists around me. We were all pretty happy (if a bit slap-happy from lack of sleep) but I didn't see any 'bored' sketch artists or artists who didn't want to be there. Again, it's what you make of it.
Looking forward to attending next year!
This post has been edited by IcyPanther: 30 April 2012 - 06:51 AM
Posted 29 April 2012 - 09:22 PM
I hate the iron bead trend as much as everyone else but it is art, maybe there are lots of prints but I saw loads of prints that stuck out and a few even reached into my wallet.
And why complain about artists doing non anime related work? Would you also complain about non anime cosplay? I was happy to see booths with anime art also carrying fantastic batman prints , it can really show the range of an artist.
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Posted 29 April 2012 - 09:54 PM
Anime Central is NOT a professional art gallery and should not be treated as such. Not only would it create an immense workload for the already overworked Anime Central Exhibition staff, it would keep a lot of artists out of the alley that deserve a chance to try and sell their work. Speaking as an Artists' Alley newcomer this year, I disagree with you when you say that ACen is not for the inexperienced. I'm as inexperienced as you get--before this weekend I'd never sold a single bit of my art to anyone, much less run a booth for three days specifically to do so. It was a WONDERFUL experience, the most fun I've had at Anime Central ever, and I plan to come back next year to enjoy it as an Alley artist some more.
I'm not sure what percentage of ACen artists make a living off of the work they sell in the Alley here and at other conventions, but a lot of us do it as an extension to our hobby. "Jurying" the Alley would encourage only the "top" studios to apply and leave out the chance for equally amazing little guys to register. The feeling I got being part of the Alley was that we were all in it together. Sure, we technically had competition (I got a little sad every time someone passed on my buttons to go to the button guy next door) but the whole feeling of the thing was very inclusive. Jurying would create a very excluding atmosphere and I don't like the idea of that happening.
The first year I ever browed ACen's Artist Alley, I was disappointed. At the time, it was small, cramped, and nothing like the expansive Alley I had been to at Otakon. This year really impressed me--the aisles were wide, the art was wonderful, and the artists I spoke to were all truly excited to be there and proud of their work. There's nothing wrong with being proud of the work that you do. I'm not a big print buyer myself--I love looking at them and there were quite a few I admired, but I just don't have the wallspace, but I still found plenty at the Alley that I wanted to buy.
In regards to the artists packing up early on Sunday, I did notice that as well starting around the 2:30-3:00 mark. I figured the artists had a plane to catch or somesuch. I'm local, but I'm sure there's quite a few people who flew in to show at the convention.
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Posted 29 April 2012 - 10:05 PM
IcyPanther, on 29 April 2012 - 09:19 PM, said:
ACEN was my first con and I enjoyed it and learned a lot from it. I think a juried show would take away from allowing artists that experience of a bigger con and limiting the amount of work. It's up to the attendees to choose who they wish to buy from and if they don't feel like a piece of art should be bought based on quality or the medium presented -- i.e., you suggested how some art should not be on buttons -- then simply don't buy from them. It's a learning experience for the artists as well as the con goers.
I do agree though that there should be some limits. I had the lovely experience of being next to an artist who had 3 tables, was by herself, only sold prints, and said prints were all the generic face shape, type and style. Since she was the entire section of the table next to me and her display was much taller, I felt that mine got overwhelmed. I think artists should be limited to 1 or 2 tables, unless they actually have several people in their studio and can branch to three. Having that many for one person prevents other artists from getting in and it's rather repetitive. Not to mention, her husband was an aisle away with his own set of tables selling the same thing...
All in all, the con is what you make of it. I had a lot of fun and enjoyed chatting with most of the fellow artists around me. We were all pretty happy (if a bit slap-happy from lack of sleep) but I didn't see any 'bored' sketch artists or artists who didn't want to be there. Again, it's what you make of it.
Looking forward to attending next year!
I have to completely agree with what was said here. This was also my first time at a big con like Acen, it was only our third con ever in the artist alley. I feel as though a juried ally would mean less experienced people would never get a chance at getting into a big con like this. I understand that not all of the art in the alley is the best art out there, but who would judge what is worthy of getting in? All in all, if an artist doesn't have good enough work to sell, chances are they're not going to come back next year. This means that the ally essentially weeds out the bad artists all on it's own, while still at least allowing new people a chance.
What it boils down to is that ACen's rules for getting into the alley are completely fair. First come first serve. Allow new people in, and the 3 table max makes a lot of sense (Although I seriously can't believe the wife/husband duo that took up more than three tables... I can't believe ACen staff didn't notice/allowed that to happen) It's up to the con goers to decide what art is worthy of buying and what isn't. The ally is there to please the con goers, so if people like non-anime related things, then that's not the Arist Alley's fault... It's the con goers.
My biggest complaint would have actually been with the same tables Icy Panther was talking about(and a couple others)--Tables from last year that had the exact same prints from last year, with only one or two new additions. As a congoer last year, I really enjoyed their work and was looking forward to what they would have this year... but I was only disappointed when I saw the exact same work from this year with only one or two new prints.
I'm sure that the sketch artists looked bored not because they weren't happy to be there... but because they were overshadowed by these tables who mass-produce the same prints time and time again. It's not their fault con-goers are awed by the massive displays of digital artists, while the sketch artists have meager displays and don't get as much attention.
Like the Chainmail Guy said, I think your gripes are with the convention atmosphere as a whole, not the artist alley itself. To each their own, but speaking as someone who was in the alley I have to say that this year's turnout was pretty good. There were a lot of great prints, a lot of creative plushies, and some really cool jewelry and keychains.
But really, what is it you're looking for in the artist alley? It seems like you have a gripe with people who sell prints, people who do pixel arts, people who sell jewelry, keychains, plushies.... What is it you're looking to find in the artist alley? There are only so many mediums available to artists(especially considering this is NOT most artist's full-time occupation Are you expecting the artists at ACen to all be professionals? I really don't see what your point was besides you hating on artists who are just trying to share their art with fellow con-goers.
This post has been edited by Grimby: 29 April 2012 - 10:06 PM
Posted 29 April 2012 - 10:10 PM
Grimby, on 29 April 2012 - 10:05 PM, said:
I was sort of wondering what this person actually WANTED to find in the Artist Alley, too, what with all the things they said they were sick of.
OP, what things did you ENJOY seeing at the convention? Telling us what you liked about it and what you want to see more of is a much better way to help shape an Alley more to your liking for next year.
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Posted 29 April 2012 - 10:24 PM
"A website or online photo album with your work in it is a must once you apply for table space.
This is not a 'First come, First served' table request process. As with previous years, all Artist Alley Table Request submissions are juried by a committee. It is not soley based on how advance or amateur the artist technique is, everyone is more than welcome to apply (and we encourage it)! We are always on the look out for up and coming artists and studios.
What is a Juried Show?
The annotation 'juried' means you must submit website or image links which are reviewed by a jury (a knowledgeable committee) and your work will be accepted into the show based on technical skill, creativity, the medium, and/or other requirements worth recognizing. Hobbyists and Professional alike are welcome to submit once the table request forms are activated."
ACEN is a huge show. There's a lot to do. It's very hard to justify coming to Artist Alley when you have to wade through dozens of booths featuring the same thing, some of which is low quality, when you have 6 hours to get to 3 panels and 2 photo shoots and line up for the masquerade and meet up with your friends...etc. It's very hard to find what you want to spend money on. And I think it's very disingenuous to sell table spaces to artists when many of them don't even have a chance to make money because everyone who is brave enough to foray through Artist Alley is overwhelmed by the time they get to the booth, or tired from all the running around looking for what they want. Or they're too over-scheduled to appreciate anything, much less the time and talent the artist put into his or her work.
This would probably keep out a few of the less experienced artists--that's a good thing. Let them hone their craft at shows and cons where there is less to do, and con-goers can take the time to give them feedback. Trust me, I see it at other shows, both art shows and cons. But if someone is extremely talented, the level of experience shouldn't matter. Their art is that good? Fine, let 'em in. Maybe it'll keep the more experienced people hungry to see some upstarts.
Don't get me wrong. I love a lot of the media out there. I have my fair share of crocheted Nintendo characters, some iron-on beads on my fridge, lots of buttons, a few good prints, and some fantastic jewelry and accessories, all of which I bought from artists. I'd prefer to spend money in Artist Alley, it has a more personal touch. But it's hard to develop that personal touch when the show has too much quantity to let the quality shine.
Posted 29 April 2012 - 10:39 PM
I also was wondering just what sort of things you hoped to find in the alley if you're ruling out 80% of the mediums that people use. Whats left?
Posted 29 April 2012 - 11:00 PM
railas, on 29 April 2012 - 10:39 PM, said:
Exactly. If you don't like the art, then don't buy it. The congoers directly influence who is successful in the artist alley, so if you like something and want to see more of a certain type of art, then by sure to support the artist. I myself spent money at tables that I wanted to see more of. There were some newer atists in the alley this year whos style I really liked, so I made sure to buy a print or two to support what I thought was creative and new.
I even bid in the art show this year. I actually had the luck of running into the artist later, and I was happy to find out it was her first submission ever in the art show. I was also happy to find out I could support a fellow artist who had a unique piece unlike any other in the alley.
A juried alley would mean that the people (if it even is a group of people deciding who gets in... and what exactly are their qualifications?) deciding what art gets into the alley would be directly deciding what kind of art the people at the con like. What if the panel who is jurying the ally doesn't like chibis? That would mean that anyone who likes chibis would be disappointed that there aren't any chibis in the Alley. A juried alley would mean that it would be restricing the types of art from the very get go, and limiting the variety just because of personal preferences.
A first come first serve basis is also a great way of seeing who is actually prepared for the con. Unprepared people wouldn't be on the ball, meaning they would be too late to get in. The artist alley was filled in 12 minutes this year... The people who were prepared and really wanted a chance at getting into ACen were the people who got in. With a juried alley, people could apply at any time and still have the same chance as everyone else.
What Railas said would also be true. If only the cream of the crop were being selected for the alley each year... would it not be the same people, time and time again? Which would also present the problem of what I saw this year of return artists selling the same prints.
All in all, a juried alley would be much too subjective for my taste. Even speaking from a con-goers perspective(and not as someone who was selling all of that jewelry, pixel arts, plushies, etc that you seem to dislike so much) I would hate to know that the artists in the alley were all hand-picked by some mysterious people who may not have had the same taste in art as myself. I would feel as though I were missing out on some great artists who got denied simply because some man behind the curtain deemed there were already too many "print artists" in the alley.
I understand that the alley is very overwhelming and that with panels/photoshoots to get to it can be a bit rushed... But when it comes down to it I would much rather be overwhelmed and have too many options (and be able to make a final decision on my own) than be underwhelmed by a smaller number of artists, and maybe miss out on a few of my favorite prints/etc because of a juried alley.
Posted 29 April 2012 - 11:42 PM
"Don't get me wrong. I love a lot of the media out there. I have my fair share of crocheted Nintendo characters, some iron-on beads on my fridge, lots of buttons, a few good prints, and some fantastic jewelry and accessories, all of which I bought from artists. I'd prefer to spend money in Artist Alley, it has a more personal touch. But it's hard to develop that personal touch when the show has too much quantity to let the quality shine. "
If you're going to get hung up on accusing me of not liking art, or some random percentage of media out there, you're welcome to waste your time missing my point. My point is--lots of other cons and art shows do this. Those who have had any experience with juried art shows know that it doesn't come down to "oh, I don't like chibis." You get quality people who can recognize quality work, even if it's not their style. I'm sure if ACEN needed help with this, there are some QUALITY art schools in the area--the Art Institute of Chicago comes to mind (it IS one of the best art museums in the world ^_~), but if you're looking for something smaller, College of DuPage has an excellent art department as well--with faculty who can educate people as to how to jury a show, if not help do it themselves.
I'm not sure why, with ACEN, there's always some reason why we can't have quality over quantity. Other shows manage it, and it's a lot more fair to the artists, who are, after all, at least trying to make back their booth fees and materials costs, even if they're not in it to actually make any kind of real money. I'd rather see quality artists coming back year after year, than have them drop out because they can't even make back their costs (something I was hearing from some of the artists I was talking to) because the Artist Alley is too overwhelming.
But hey, like I said, if you want to make this about me somehow not liking art, even though I've explained that I do, that's cool. Read into it what you want. I don't do anime cons, but I have been in a number of art shows, and I can tell you from that perspective that often, the bigger the show, the less fair it is to the artists, and after all, what's the point of Artist Alley if it's not about supporting the artists?
Posted 30 April 2012 - 12:02 AM
And in the plainest terms: I would NOT have been at ACen this year if the alley were juried, because I wouldn't have met the qualifications to enter. Before ACen I didn't have much of a portfolio at all of my current style. The comic I used to dabble in (from which my studio's namesake was born) wasn't spectacular and didn't really stand out among the thousands of other webcomics out there. I kept more to doodles than anything else. Not much of a portfolio. When I decided to do the Alley, I took ACen as a huge motivator to do art. I told myself, "You're going to sign up for a table, you are going to put out a lot of art, and you are going to be AWESOME." I did my damnedest to live up to it.
Keeping my ears open throughout the weekend I never heard anyone complain about any of the booths in the Alley. What I did hear was a lot of indecision caused by the phrase, "Everything's so COOL this year, I don't know what to buy!" and I don't consider that a bad thing at all. I fully support a large show that allows any artist to give it a shot. As it's been said, if they don't do well at the convention, one of two things will likely happen: They will not come back next year, or they will work to improve and offer something new for the following year. I find it very unlikely that people would come back year after year if they were losing money each time.
This post has been edited by Sapphy: 30 April 2012 - 12:08 AM
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Posted 30 April 2012 - 12:23 AM
IcyPanther, on 29 April 2012 - 09:19 PM, said:
I do agree though that there should be some limits. I had the lovely experience of being next to an artist who had 3 tables, was by herself, only sold prints, and said prints were all the generic face shape, type and style. Since she was the entire section of the table next to me and her display was much taller, I felt that mine got overwhelmed. I think artists should be limited to 1 or 2 tables, unless they actually have several people in their studio and can branch to three. Having that many for one person prevents other artists from getting in and it's rather repetitive. Not to mention, her husband was an aisle away with his own set of tables selling the same thing...
I saw during set up that you were next to "her". I feel for you.
Also, the man you are talking about is not her husband, they are actually no longer together. Still have similar art, but they are actually not a couple at all any longer and should be treated separately, not like they are plotting together. So let's not start rumors and give ourselves a bad rep.
The sad part is that that person and others like her aren't going to go away (nor should they really. they may be generally disliked but they do have a right to sell too). It was your first con and I'm sure you learned quite a few things about displays and what works and what doesn't. You can't beat people like that, you just have to try and compete with them. That's just how the alleys are...
As for juried AAs, let's not even. I think perhaps a more streamlined layout would be good for next year's and then it would feel less overwhelming and would direct traffic evenly, or even downsizing a slight bit to allow for say, rows instead of islands. Those work well generally. Otherwise, good con this year, I did well and hope the rest of you did too.
Also about artists packing up early... You seem to assume that they were doing it because you weren't worth their time. Have you thought that maybe they had a plane to catch? I've had to leave shows before because the latest plane going out was at like 4pm. You should think about that kind of thing before assuming they are doing it for a negative reason.
This post has been edited by Kikai: 30 April 2012 - 05:38 AM
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Posted 30 April 2012 - 07:00 AM
I was the guy with the huge Lightning beadsprite and a bunch of others. I'm proud to say that four years ago at ACen '08, my studio was the ONLY one at ACen doing what we did (and I think the only studio in the Midwest at the time). The very next year in '09, there were at least three or four other booths selling similar things. Now, it seems that every other table sells beadsprites, and although we still have everyone else beat in quality and quantity, maybe it's time to accept that that market is just too saturated now. Although I'm confident that if the show was juried I would be one of the "ironed plastic bead magnet" studios chosen, that isn't really fair to everyone in general.
Posted 30 April 2012 - 07:06 AM
BakaBarbarian, on 29 April 2012 - 11:42 PM, said:
But hey, like I said, if you want to make this about me somehow not liking art, even though I've explained that I do, that's cool. Read into it what you want. I don't do anime cons, but I have been in a number of art shows, and I can tell you from that perspective that often, the bigger the show, the less fair it is to the artists, and after all, what's the point of Artist Alley if it's not about supporting the artists?
I believe the consensus here is that ACen is NOT like other art shows, and treating it as such would only drive people away. There is far more to the con than the Artist's Alley, therefore, some perceived level of quality is not a requirement. For the people attending, it's more important to keep things equal opportunity and give the less experienced a chance, rather than filter them out to leave more business for the rest. To me, the Artist Alley is more about providing an opportunity to display work and advertise than it is about selling. I can sell my stuff just about everywhere, but if I can't get my name out into the community, then who is going to know to look for me?
I think you're looking at things from a different perspective with a different means for the same goal. If I'm not mistaken, your definition of 'supporting the artists' would be to drive up their sales at the con. However, the way I see it, and the way it seems everyone else wants it to go, is that ACen's means for supporting the artists is to give them exposure. Making it a juried show would limit that exposure, and thus damper that goal. Doing art is a learning process. Over time, you learn what works, what doesn't, how to stay competitive and what you need to do to succeed. If you've already learned those skills, there are places like the ones you've mentioned that are catered more to that type of business. ACen is more about providing a larger classroom for more people to get in and learn those skills.
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Posted 30 April 2012 - 07:33 AM
In ACen's case, they are proud to have one of the largest AA spaces in North America and can afford to allow us to be first come first serve and let the ATTENDEES decide (based on the success of the artist, because if someone spends X dollars to get here, have merch, set up, and makes pittance compared to what they spent, then they aren't likely to come back) who is and isn't in the alley.
I much prefer to be judged by my customers than one or two staffers (With no offense to anyone who staffs and has to make that decision. I'm sure it's not easy.) who MAY or MAY NOT have a bias perhaps to an art form or style. My work is very text based and seems simple, BUT with a heavy graphic design that some might not understand looking at a small portfolio of my work. My commission art is a very unique "doodle" style that I haven't had anyone complain about but I'm sure wouldn't "fit in" in some places.
This year I was IMPRESSED with the alley and everything it had to offer. I was bummed that I couldn't buy from everyone I wanted to (just couldn't get away from my table enough). And while I do 8 shows a year and have a very polished setup/display (from 9 years of experience), it is (as was alluded) done not as a means of income but because I ENJOY it. I LOVE seeing people light up when I finish a custom button and see what I created. I love hearing the giggling and watching someone drag their friend over and say "that is SO like our friend". Seeing it resonate with people. Hearing the fangirl squees and watching an attendee go running up to any of the tables in the alley and saying "omg I have to have that" is just cool to experience.
I think a juried show would take away from all of that (and I'd say that as an attendee). I've been to shows that "have no variety" and trust me ACen is not that show.
Thank you for your comments BakaBarbarian - while I don't think we (speaking for those who have commented) feel a juried show would be the answer, I do hope anyone coming to this thread DOES take away how important it is to make a good impression in all the ways possible (setup, attitude, time invested in making your art the best it can be) and that the Alley will continue to get better because of that.
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Posted 30 April 2012 - 10:45 AM
BakaBarbarian, on 29 April 2012 - 08:20 PM, said:
How many print artists do you really NEED in an Artist Alley? Ironed plastic bead magnet-makers? Crochet figures? Jewelry makers? Button-makers? Independent comic artists? How many polar fleece hats with ears or faux fur tails does one need before enough is enough? I could count on one hand the number of truly original booths out there. Everything else was such a repetition of other booths, it all ran together. I ended up spending much less money at ACEN than I have at smaller cons' Artist Alleys, because it was simply too big, confusing, annoying, and repetitive.
Where to begin with this. First, "art" is a highly subjective term. Under the current Acen rules, any artist can display in the alley as long as the item is not a duplicate of the merchandise in the dealer's hall and is a product of the artist's own creation. I believe this is fair. A seamstress puts as much work into producing a unique hat as an illustrator does into a good piece and a comic creator into their book. Also, a HEALTHY artist alley should have as much variety as possible. In the Starving Artist panel, we're regularly asked our opinion on the presence of crafts, fan art, what have you in the alley. Even though we do only original work, we always advocate that fan work and variety is good for the alley because it draws in the most attendees. Somebody looking for a plushie may cross paths with an independent comic they weren't looking for and find something unique and fantastic they love but wouldn't have found otherwise. Beginners can learn from their experiences and long time attendees such as ourselves can build a solid fanbase and get reliable exposure.
While I see your point on the issue of something things being repetitive, I would comment that this is mostly an issue of trends and supply vs. demand. Yes, there were a lot of crocheted octopi and chibi key chains this year. Those were popular sellers last year and this year many artists made an effort to bring them. But last year the alley had a lot of fuzzy hats and several years ago we were flooded with cosplay costumers. Many artists follow trends and when an artist's personal idiom is in vogue, you tend to get a lot of them attending the alley. When the trend dies, production becomes less lucrative and many of the less dedicated or focused artists move on while the really dedicated ones continue. This is perfectly normal and healthy and there's nothing wrong with it.
I will admit that there are artists that don't always give 100% to their craft. Also, there are some artists who I feel on a personal level may have benefited from waiting and honing their skills before joining artist alley. HOWEVER, I do not presume to dictate if an art piece is worthy of artist alley. I do not presume to judge if an artist is ready for the alley. And just because I don't feel that something is worthy of my purchase, doesn't mean it's not worthy of anybody's purchase. The attendees show their likes and dislikes with their purchases and those who don't cut it don't sell and will either adjust, learn and improve until they do start selling or drop out. And again, this is normal and healthy and expected.
First off, if an artist is sketching, I would hardly call that being bored. Please bear in mind, especially if you like artists and want to support them, that when an artist is drawing, they often become completely absorbed in what they are doing and don't notice what's around them. When interrupted while absorbed in something, it's a very common and human reaction to instinctively frown or scowl over the unexpected interruption until the individual assess what that interruption is. It's nothing personal and if this offends or upsets you, it appears that it's not the artist that's the special snowflake here.
Also, bear in mind that sitting at that table, with few breaks is tedious and difficult and often boring if you're not that into taking pictures of cosplay or people watching. For awhile one of my studio mates and I were singing the ManaMana song. If an artist is not inspired to engage in a piece, then, yes, they are going to look bored. If that affects their sales, then they need to own that themselves - there's nothing reducing the number of sketch artists could do for that.
I once had a conversation with a middle aged man in a poofy dress, carrying a teddy bear over this. The fact is that artists need to get work out to those who would be their fan base. While my artist's art style is not what one would call "anime", the way she lays pages, the inking and toning my other artist does and the overall story lines I write has a high appeal to the anime fandom. Therefore, we promote our work at Anime Central. Furthermore, there are many crossovers within genres, and again, artists have to go where their fanbase is and will often follow the trends. Steampunk is currently in, it has a high crossover rate with anime fandom, therefore you will be seeing steampunk in the Acen alley until the trend declines. The same goes for Dr. Who. This is simple supply/demand.
With an attendance of over 20,000 people - bigger than the populations of some towns - Anime Central cannot control who attends their convention, nor can they dictate what those individuals purchase. In our Starving Artist panel, we strongly encourage artists to stay the full length of the alley, open to close each day. We do ourselves and wait it out until the bitter end each day. However, many of the artists in the alley have day jobs and many of them need to catch their transport, which may mean that they have to leave early to catch a flight or their carpool back to home in order to be at work or school the next day. For those who arbitrarily pack up and leave early, well that's more last minute sales for those who stay.
Typically, juried artist alleys experience fewer sales than first come/first serve alleys due to lack of variety. The juries that do the selection process are human and therefor subject to personal opinion, bias and subjectivity. At it's best, juried artist alleys will reflect the personal aesthetics of the jury which selects who gets in - which alienates any attendee that does not share those personal aesthetics, and therefor reduce traffic and sales. However, juried alleys have also gained a reputation for being juried in such a way that allows for bias, nepotism and giving the jury the ability to weed out what they deem as "undesirable" such as fan art or artists that are better than the friends of the jury. First come/first serve with the staff basing any removals, bans or refusal of tables off of objective issues such as failure to pay or follow rules is the only real way to ensure a fair process that allows for the best variety.
In short, it appears you seem to want the Anime Central artist alley to go back to the same alley it was in the late 90's, with few tables consisting of a bunch of artists with sketchbooks. But with Acen being as big as it is, alley space is in high demand and it's not fair to ask a bunch of hardworking artists to have to duke it out. I remember those days at Acen, when tables were first come/first serve with NO preregistration. I remember the table jumping, I remember the poor relations between artists, I remember the uncertainty of having to plan for a convention you weren't sure you could get into, I remember the cliques and accusations of nepotism and gossip. It was awful. The current staff has done an excellent job of taking care of the artists, making sure we knew if we had a table or not and ensuring that the most number of artists have the ability to get in, without discrimination. I applaud them. This year's artist alley had some of the best variety I have seen in years and I had a great time shopping and purchasing from my fellow artists.
Posted 30 April 2012 - 01:33 PM
I would like to thank you all for exhibiting at Anime Central's 15th Anniversary. Without you, we would not have had the enjoyable, entertaining, and exciting atmosphere that our attendees have expected year after year of Anime Central. That being said, even though we are all unpaid volunteers, we would like to see what we can do in the future to help improve the event for not only our attendees, but for you as well. If you would be so kind, during your down time or when you have a chance, could you please complete our exhibiting survey, that was sent to your email (if you were an approved Artist Before Con). This survey will help us to know where we can help you, and hopefully make ACen's 16th year exponentially better.I hope that your travels are/will be safe, and that Anime Central was as enjoyable for you as it was for us.
Best Regards & Thank you,
Exhibit Space Assistant Manager 2007 & 08
If you have any Questions, Comments, and/or Concerns, Feel Free to Contact us by using one of the emails below.
firstname.lastname@example.com - firstname.lastname@example.com - email@example.com - email@example.com
Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance & Promotes Premium Productivity
"The optimistic way to look at your own art, performance, or results when someone tells you that you're not good enough, is to think that there's still room to improve. When you believe your artwork, performance, or results are perfect, it's the end of your artistic career."


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More Web Games
1 - 5 of 31
Classic Parlor Games
1 - 5 of 30
Download Games
1 - 5 of 10
Simple enoughBy Art Faye on Thu, Sep 27, 2012 7:27 PM EDTMakes the player use simple logic and spatial perception abilities. Not very difficult, no real goal except for making the final gear turn. Whoopee.0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For brain users onlyBy Amber Manjeot on Fri, May 18, 2012 11:01 PM EDTHits: Great game. Makes you use your head, which is unusual for most.
Misses: If I were to say anything were wrong, that would be a lack of intelligence on my part.0 of 0 people found this review helpful-
never tryBy Kile on Mon, May 7, 2012 12:43 PM EDTHits: up to level 17 its ok
Misses: needs more space
impossible to complete level 180 of 0 people found this review helpful-
Don't bother.By NikF on Tue, Nov 22, 2011 10:26 AM EST
Nice game;I don't think people would disagree.By on Mon, Nov 21, 2011 8:16 PM ESTHits: Fun;I like the gear concepet with the puzzle genre.
Misses: I think there should be harder lv.0 of 0 people found this review helpful-
Challenging but fun.By Drake on Tue, Nov 15, 2011 1:21 AM ESTHits: Mildly Challenging but not overly hard. Not so many levels you are over whelmed, but enough to be fun.
Misses: Improve instructions. While the current set works, I still had questions about the game that were not answered.0 of 0 people found this review helpful-
Had potential, but led to a pointless game, really.By A on Mon, Sep 12, 2011 8:57 AM EDTHits: Requires a bit of thinking to get the turns correct if you want to go for more complex arrangements.
Misses: Gets boring quite quickly. The scoring and cost system is unclear, so hard to determine how complex to get. No real aim to the game or the the money.0 of 0 people found this review helpful-
Don't waste your 'click'By horselover on Fri, Aug 26, 2011 10:23 AM EDTHits: none that I can recommend
Misses: stupid, bad instructions, boring0 of 0 people found this review helpfulLatest Game News
- Microsoft reverses 'always-on' internet, used game policies … Plugged In - 11 hours ago
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- Will new legislation mean warning label for Xbox One? Plugged In - Tue, Jun 18, 2013 2:34 PM EDT
- U.S. game sales fall 25% in May Plugged In - Tue, Jun 18, 2013 1:07 PM EDT

subset: commoncrawl


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139 E Main St, Forest City, NC | Directions 28043-3125
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They do much better than the bigger pharmacies I have gone to in the past. The staff is very educated in mixed drug interactions and they make sure that you take what you need to take and what not to take with certain drugs. They really take care of me and my prescriptions here.
The staff here is just so kind and helpful in so many ways. I like how knowledgeable they are and the small town local service they provide.
The efficiency that they have here is truly the best. They really know how to take care of their customers here. I like how I can go in and they can answer your questions with no hesitation.
What I like most about Smith's Drugs is how knowledgeable the pharmacist is. He is very educated in mixed drug interactions and they are much better than the big pharmacies.
Great customer service. Smith's Drugs has been my "go to" pharmacist for years. They do a great job at preparing my prescriptions and they are always available on time. The staff is so friendly and a joy to talk to.
We are so pleased with there service. I have been a customer here since the 50's. The staff is always so friendly and caring. There are three of us that live in the house and we all have prescriptions and and we have to pick them up 3-4 times a month. We also are regular customers at there fountain everyday. I really can't think of anything they can improved here, everything they do is just great.
great place.
My prescriptions are always ready in a nice timely manner, which is wonderful because I go there 7 times a month. The staff does anything they can for me which make me very happy knowing that people care.
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NewsFebruary 01 2012
Snowy Owls Spotted in Lyman County
Posted by Lucy
Snowy Owls Spotted in Lyman County
A snowy female owl was spotted sitting on a fence post approximately seven miles south of Kennebec in late December. A pure white male owl was spotted in the area also, but didn't' sit still long enough for a photo.
read the story in the Feb.1 issue
- Friends, classmates graduate
- Memorial Day Services
- Lyman track teams win Conference Meet
- Western Great Plains Confernce Track meet to be held in Presho
- Youth selected to attend Boys and Girls State
- Nominating petitions due
- Love of horses inspires essay
- City-wide clean up days scheduled
- Pierre publisher elected president of South Dakota Newspaper Association
- Prom on the Bayou
- Get ready for Scavenger's Journey


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Sun, Jul 08, 2012
Airbus says a full range of its newest commercial and military aircraft will be on display at the 2012.
Static aircraft will include a customer A380, an Airbus A320 equipped with Sharklet fuel saving wing tip devices, an A318 Corporate jet, and the Airbus Beluga (pictured) transport plane. Military aircraft include the A400M and a Portuguese Air Force C295 maritime patrol plane on static display. All EADS company units, the 'Future by EADS' stand and the EADS press centre will be under one roof in a new centrally located EADS Pavilion. The Pavilion will focus on new and future programmes and include an A350 XWB cut-away model and movie theatre showcasing 'efficiency'. Other models include the A320neo and the C295 in Airborne Early Warning (AEW) and Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) configurations. Airbus will also show a 3D movie offering a vision of the Future of Flight. Airbus is also the headline sponsor of the Farnborough Innovation Zone and Future's Day. The innovation Zone promotes inspiring R&T projects and a futuristic vision of a sustainable aviation sector in 2050 and beyond. Airbus experts will be on hand to discuss alternative energies, future solutions and future talent. Airbus is hosting a series of career workshops for those considering a future in aerospace. Airbus has always attracted some of the best talent from around the world, and this will be one of the themes of a special event on Thursday midday at the static display area. Friday's Future's Day, is dedicated to the next generation that will shape the future of aviation. It includes a focus on Airbus' highly popular Fly Your Ideas student challenge, with a panel discussion on the skills required in aviation.
The Farnborough International Airshow is taking place between July 9-15th.
Airborne 05.21.13: Cirrus Chute Fails, NASA Record, More NIMBY Nonsense
Airborne 05.17.13: X-47B Carrier Launch, New Base For CAF, Space Oddity... For Real!
Aero-TV: The Orbis Flying Eye Hospital -- Thirty Years of Saving Sight
See All
The FAA Wants The EAA to P Published: Thu, May 23 2013
Ride Sally Ride – Re Published: Wed, May 22 2013
Bombardier Launches the Ch Published: Tue, May 21 2013
Get Ready for Longer Lines at the Air Published: Mon, May 20 2013
© 2007 - 2013 Web Development & Design by Pauli Systems, LC


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christiefan915 (12-07-2011)
Nine Dean College students have been expelled following a one-sided fight on Friday that was captured on videotape and posted online. Police said they expected to bring criminal charges in the case.
The fight began when a group of male students confronted another male student over a pair of sneakers, said Franklin Deputy Police Chief Stephen Semerjian.
"It began with a sucker punch so the victim really had no idea," Semerjian said. "Once he was horizontal on the ground, it was brutal from that point on, absolutely."
The video shows a young man being punched without warning and then repeatedly punched and being hit with his own shoes. His attacker then walks off with the shoes.
The victim was treated at the campus medical center and released Friday night.
"It was really one-sided," Semerjian said. "The victim was lucky to be able to get back to his feet."
One student was expelled Friday, and eight more were expelled after the video came to light Monday, said Gregg Chalk, spokesman for Dean College. Chalk said no other students are being investigated at this time.
"Dean has zero tolerance for anything that infringes on the safety of students," Chalk said.
At least one person is expected to face criminal charges, Semerjian said. Charges would include assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and unarmed robbery, he said.
"There absolutely will be [charges] once we finish everything up," he said.
See the video -
And these are the supposedly college educated one's.
christiefan915 (12-07-2011)
christiefan915 (12-07-2011)
I wonder if anyone can see what's going on here, it's not so simple or indeed black and white!!
I'm sick of following my dreams. I'm just going to ask them where they're going, and hook up with them later.
Shocking webbway would troll a race issue!!!
Ire I , positive vibration
Kief be with you brudda, and also with you
christiefan915 (12-07-2011), Liberty (12-07-2011)


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Just plain simple want!
$100,000! Can't have :(
British Journal of Photography
A rare fisheye Nikkor 6mm f/2.8 lens, which offers the "world's most extreme wide-angle" and is worth £100,000, has gone on sale at Gray's of Westminster in London
First introduced in 1970 at the Photokina trade show in Cologne, Germany, the Fisheye-Nikkor 6mm f/2.8 lens offers an angle of view of 220º making it, at the time, the "world's most extreme wide-angle lens to cover an image area of 24x36mm.


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Definition of 'Non-Security'A type of investment that is not as freely marketable or transferable as a security. Unlike a security, a non-security does not require the backing of an underwriter or bank, and involves much less documentation and paperwork. This lack of underwriting reduces the vehicle's liquidity and makes exchanging it between parties more difficult. Non-security investments could still hold value, but will not be quoted on any stock exchange or organized financial market. |
Investopedia explains 'Non-Security'A security is an instrument representing a freely transferable and salable investment, which includes the risk of loss in value. Securities include assets such as stocks, mutual funds, government bonds and debentures. Non-securities include assets such as art, rare coins, baseball cards, life insurance, physical gold, diamonds and bank guarantees. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) restrict some investments with this classification. |
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Multi-Asset Funds Or Your Own Mix?
The underlying concept of mixed funds is very appealing. Discover if you're better off with professional management or creating a mixed fund of your own.


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A collection of news and information related to Clifton Richardson published by this site and its partners.
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Menchville grad Clifton Richardson to transfer from U.Va.
After two seasons spent trying to work his way up Virginia's running back depth chart, Menchville High graduate Clifton Richardson has decided to transfer. Richardson, a 6-foot-0, 210-pound rising junior, has two seasons of eligibility remaining and an...Tags: South Carolina Gamecocks, Sports, College Sports, Southeastern Conference, Financial Aid
Scoreboard -- May 16, 2013
|TV SPORTS| Major League Baseball--New York Mets at Chicago Cubs, 1:10 p.m. (WGN); Boston Red Sox at Minnesota Twins, 7 p.m. (FXSP) Soccer--Spanish Pimera Division, Copa del Ray, Championship, Atletico Madrid at Real Madrid, 2:25 p.m. (ESPN) College...Tags: Oklahoma City Thunder, College Sports, Louisville Cardinals, Dellin Betances, Evan Reed
Like Virginia players, associate head coach Tom O'Brien adjusting to new offense
CHARLOTTESVILLE — Virginia's quarterbacks, running backs, receivers and linemen aren't the only ones adjusting to new coordinator Steve Fairchild's offense this spring. Tom O'Brien is right there with them. "Well, I've been coaching 38 years,...Tags: Boston College Eagles, Sports, College Sports, Football, North Carolina State Wolfpack
Richardson gets serious about staying healthy in Virginia's backfield
CHARLOTTESVILLE – There was a time when a day spent away from the football field for Clifton Richardson meant stretching and keeping limber could be put on the backburner. Those weren't exactly priorities in his life. That's what he thought when...Tags: Sports, Football, David Watford, Mike London
U.Va.'s top offensive priority is re-establishing the run
CHARLOTTESVILLE — After seeing how Virginia strayed from the ground game late last season, running back Kevin Parks' worst fear was coach Mike London transforming U.Va.'s offense into a passing-game-obsessed operation behind a new offensive...Tags: Virginia Tech, Larry Centers, National Football League, David Watford, St. Louis Rams
U.Va. drops sixth straight, losing 16-10 to Wake Forest
CHARLOTTESVILLE — Just when it seemed that Virginia might have finally put an end to its losing skid Saturday, the Cavaliers seemed instead to find another way to keep it going. After coming up with an important defensive stop with just over two...Tags: Sports, North Carolina State Wolfpack, Football, Anthony Poindexter, Virginia Cavaliers
ACC All Access: Virginia's deficiencies indicate how much guys like Chase Minnifield and Kris Burd are missed
Though it's not some startling new revelation, it's becoming abundantly clear Virginia misses two of its biggest contributors – Chase Minnifield and Kris Burd – from last season on both sides of the ball more than ever. As he...Tags: North Carolina Tar Heels, North Carolina State Wolfpack, Duke Blue Devils, Miami Hurricanes, Florida State Seminoles
Fixing offensive line issues is one of Virginia's biggest needs
Morgan Moses has gotten used to looking across the line of scrimmage this season and routinely seeing eight snorting, salivating defensive players stacked up to stop Virginia's running game. The problem for U.Va. (2-1 overall, 0-1 Atlantic Coast...Tags: North Carolina Tar Heels, Sports, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, College of William and Mary, Duke Blue Devils
ACC All Access: Virginia RB Clifton Richardson, a Menchville grad, could be looking at medical redshirt
Virginia's first three games of the season haven't worked out the way banged up Menchville High graduate Clifton Richardson had envisioned. Now, he could possibly be looking at application for a medical redshirt as an option to deal with his...Tags: Sports, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Football, Virginia Cavaliers, Atlantic Coast Conference
ACC All Access: Virginia must address offensive line issues, plus Ausar Walcott and Maurice Canady come up big
Early this week, Virginia coach Mike London said he was disappointed with his offensive line failing to get enough push to help Kevin Parks pick up a yard on fourth-and-1 early in the third quarter of U.Va.'s 43-19 season-opening win against...Tags: Penn State Nittany Lions, Trials, Florida State University, Virginia Tech, Fishing
ACC All Access: Virginia's Phillip Sims makes solid debut against Richmond, but don't read into it too much
If we're being honest, Phillip Sims played in more important games at Oscar Smith High in Chesapeake than the one he played in Saturday against Richmond in Virginia's season-opener. Not that Sims was arguing otherwise. As a matter of fact, he...Tags: Sports, Richmond Spiders, Football, Chick-fil-A Bowl, Virginia Cavaliers
COLLEGES: Will your favorite team make the journey or hit a dead end?
VIRGINIA TECH HOW TO GET TO POSTSEASON At this stage in Tech's evolution it's not so much a matter of how it'll get to the postseason (it has gone to bowls in 19 consecutive seasons), but rather how good the postseason will be for the Hokies. Games at...Tags: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Houston Cougars, Florida State University, College Sports, Duke Blue Devils
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All The Fun Of The Fair
Stuart Clark selflessly volunteered to meet Fanfair, a girl group with impeccable rock 'n' roll credentials and a member who's the youngest of 12 kids from Terenure.
Stuart Clark, 16 Apr 2012
"He's gorgeous!"
"You would, wouldn't you?"
"Be rude not too!"
The four members of Fanfair are casting heavily mascara-d eyes over Hot Press' recent Bruce Springsteen cover. President of this particular branch of The Boss' fan club is Roberta Howett, who for all of her girl groupery, is a rocker at heart.
"I was at the last E Street Band gig in the RDS and he was just phenomenal," enthuses the twentysomething Dubliner who also has a bit of a grá for Dave Grohl. "I sang at Oxegen last year with Bressie who's a mate of ours and Mr. Grohl was in the dressing-room next to us. I did the stalkery fan thing and got my photograph taken with him. He couldn't have been nicer – really down-to-earth and happy to chat away. Another person I'd love to meet is Rufus Wainwright. The couple of times I've seen him in Vicar St. he's blown me away."
How did the Bressie connection come about?
"Dublin being a small place, we kept running into each other," she explains. "I'd written a song, which he produced. Then we co-wrote for a while and I did some vocals for his solo album, Colourblind Stereo. He's always been popular with the ladies, but now he's on The Voice I imagine he's fighting them off!"
Ah, there are stories I could tell! Ms. Howett is also the only person I know who's been on a date with Ozzy Osbourne.
"That needs a bit of explaining!" she laughs. "I went for X-Factor years ago and was a finalist, which opened lots of doors and led to me working with Sharon Osbourne who's so lovely and giving. Even when I was voted off, I stayed in her house and got to meet the family. Anyway, there was an awards ceremony that I needed a plus-one for and Ozzy kindly volunteered. It was all very glitz and glamour – we arrived in a limo, the door opened and it was 'flash, flash, flash' as we walked up the red carpet. He's very chilled, witty and not at all sniffy about the fact you're pop and he's rock.
"The postscript is that we were in Birmingham recently, walked into our hotel and there was Ozzy and the rest of Black Sabbath in the lounge. Really nice guys."


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The Delaware County Daily Times (delcotimes.com), Serving Delaware County, PA
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
By LESLIE SMALL
email@example.com, @LeslieCSmall
Do you ever get the feeling that someone is laughing at you behind your back? Yeah, that's what it's like to be a Philadelphia sports fan right now.
First there's ever-eccentric Eagles defensive end Jason Babin, who attempted to soothe the fanbase Monday with a creepy, close-up photo of his face on Twitter with the "Dark Knight Rises" quote: "It's always darkest before the dawn."
The phrase — pronounced by the doomed Harvey Dent, for those not Batman-savvy — is supposed to suggest that things get worse before they get better. So Babin is implying that the Eagles' awful performance this season has only been a platform upon which to launch a blazing comeback. Which I'm sure is a big comfort to thousands of loyal fans forced to watch a promising squad repeatedly nosedive and players and coaches who are about to lose their jobs because of it. No, Babin's twit-pic pep talk provides nothing more than comic relief for Eagles loyalists who would rather laugh than cry.
Then there's the poor 76ers, who despite making an epic offseason misstep by trading for a perpetually sore center, still are putting on a brave face and attempting to contend. Just ask Jrue Holiday, who was dynamite in Sunday night's win over the Suns, playing 39 minutes and pouring in 33 points. Or is that "Drew" Holiday, as the 76ers website called the point guard in a banner ad at the bottom of a page selling Holiday jerseys. Though now rectified thanks to some astute Internet folk, the blooper was picked up by Deadspin Monday, ensuring that it will live at least another day to induce chuckles on the web.
Poor Holiday — apparently leading the team in scoring isn't enough to have marketing guys know how to spell your first name. Judging by the racks of unsold T-shirts at sporting goods stores, though, I bet they can spell "Bynum" just fine. Too soon?


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Miami Tops No. 17 Ohio State, 24-6
September 18, 2011
Lamar Miller ran for 184 yards - 54 on Miami's first play from scrimmage - and Jacory Harris threw two first-quarter touchdown passes to Allen Hurns, helping the Hurricanes top No. 17 Ohio State 24-6 on Saturday night in a matchup of teams dealing with NCAA scandals.
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Invited Speakers
Fischer, Daniel Max-Planck-Institut f\"ur Kernphysik |
Session SR2.00001 Ion-Impact Induced Ionization of Atoms and Molecules in Single-Pass Experiments and Storage Rings Room: Salon A-D |
Foster, Lewis CNA |
Session PR2.00002 Electronic Correlation in Ion-Atom Collisions Room: Salon A-D |
Gordon, Michael University of California - Santa Barbara |
Session QR1.00002 New insights into fundamental ion-surface interactions Room: Salon E |
Gudmundsson, Jon T. University of Iceland |
Session CT3.00003 On the Plasma Parameters in the High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering Discharge (HiPIMS) Room: Addison Room |
Kulander, Kenneth Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory |
Session HW.00001 Ionization dynamics of atoms by strong, ultra-short laser pulses Room: Salon A-E |
Loch, Stuart Auburn University |
Session BT1.00002 Electron collision calculations for atomic systems and the use of this data in fusion and astrophysics modelling codes Room: Salon E |
Maddern, Todd Flinders University |
Session QR1.00003 Electron Scattering from Fluorocarbons and Their Radicals Room: Salon E |
Martin, N.L.S. University of Kentucky |
Session QR2.00001 Out of plane ($e,2e$) experiments on helium autoionizing levels Room: Salon A-D |
Mungal, Godfrey Stanford University |
Session BT2.00003 Jet Diffusion Flame Stabilization via Pulsed Plasma Forcing Room: Salon A-D |
Palmer, Richard E. Nanoscale Physics Research Laboratory, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK |
Session GW2.00001 Organising Atoms, Clusters and Proteins on Surfaces Room: Salon A-D |
Rescigno, Thomas Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory |
Session CT2.00001 Electron- and Photon-Induced Fragmentation Dynamics in Simple Atoms and Molecules Room: Salon A-D |
Sakai, Osamu Kyoto University |
Session CT1.00005 Generation of microplasma ensemble and its functional interaction with electromagnetic waves Room: Salon E |
Schultz, David Oak Ridge National Laboratory |
Session PR2.00001 Contemporary theoretical methods to treat atomic processes in gaseous and plasma environments: Heavy particle collisions studied using supercomputers Room: Salon A-D |
Thumm, Uwe Kansas State University |
Session GW2.00002 Neutralization dynamics of hydrogen anions near flat and vicinal surfaces$^\dagger$ Room: Salon A-D |
Tian, Caizhong Tokyo Electron Ltd. |
Session VF1.00001 Study of Planar Surface Wave Excited Plasma Room: Salon E |
Vegh, Joseph University of California, Berkeley, Dept. of Chem. Eng. |
Session QR1.00004 Molecular dynamics simulations of blanket and small feature etching in fluorocarbon- and fluorine-containing plasmas Room: Salon E |
Zatsarinny, Oleg |
Session LW2.00001 Calculation of Atomic Data for Plasma Applications Room: Salon A-D |


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Welcome to Ben's Bargains. Please Register, Sign in or Sign in with Facebook
Don't know about this. Their food is pretty awful and their portion sizes have shrunk in the past few years. Last time I went I ordered an espresso at the end of my meal. It was regular coffee that had been sitting a while. They even served it in a 16 oz cup size. Irks me that restaurants call themselves "Italian" and then can't make a simple cup of espresso.
Wife's favorite dish is Fettuccine Alfredo. We could both tell that the sauce came from a jar. My wife can use a jar too, but at least she adds to it to make it taste better. Seems like they don't even care to improve it.
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Product DescriptionWhat's so great about our faith? Challenging the assumptions of believers and skeptics alike, D'Souza takes on E.O. Wilson, Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Christopher Hitchens, and other leading critics of the church to show how Christianity is at home with science and philosophy---and how it can offer lasting happiness in a disillusioned world. 350 pages, softcover from Tyndale.
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A learning community focused on transforming Schools in Hawaii
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Started this discussion. Last reply by Mark Hines Mar 19.
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Added by Mark Hines
Added by Mark Hines
I just came back from a 5 day teacher workshop at Hawaii Prep Academy in Waimea on the Big Island. The Summit was Titled "Hoku a 'aina" (Stars and Land) and the theme was sustainability. Lots to share, as the workshop was excellent - really excellent! Hosted at the one of a kind LEED Platinum eLab at HPA (http://www.hpa.edu/academics/energy-lab) and organized by one of the smartest people I know, Dr Bill Wiecking (a…
ContinuePosted on March 28, 2011 at 1:55am
So here it is, Saturday, March 12, 2011. We just spent the last hour online using Elluminate web conferencing software to host a collegial conversation (also known as a tuning protocol) with Jen Peterson, Humanities Teacher, High Tech High International on her questions/dilemma:
How can I best structure a project that is open-ended enough to leave room for creativity and individual choice while still setting myself up for successfully managing it?
we had 15…
ContinuePosted on March 12, 2011 at 12:09pm — 2 Comments
Mindsets, Education and Teachers
Well, it has…
Posted on October 17, 2010 at 11:21pm — 2 Comments
So, the conference started today with the our HAIS kickoff event, ISTE's kickoff event and the first keynote address.
HAIS Kickoff…
ContinuePosted on June 27, 2010 at 8:34pm — 1 Comment
Posted on June 27, 2010 at 8:27am
Mahalo Mark for allowing me to join the ning. Looking forward to interacting soon.
Mark, it hasn't even been the summer and I already miss the camaraderie of the SOTF group. I hope everything is going well and I hope to remain a part of the discussion through the Ning. I can't tell you how invaluable it's all been. Thank you so much for everything!
Thank you for the info. Look forward to connecting at BLC.
I spent a few hours reviewing the sessions that are being offered. There's a short video introducing the scheduling process that's easy to follow. Go to http://blcconference.com first, then http://blc2011.sched.org as instructed. A description of the classes and the participants who are interested will appear when you click on any session.
June 3, 2013 at 8am to June 4, 2013 at 3:45pm – St. Stephen Diocesan Center
June 13, 2013 from 10am to 1pm – Sheraton Waikiki Hotel
2 members
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50 members
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There is a Hawaii ISTE affiliate now! Please join, as the more members we have the larger our opportunity for advocacy for Technology In Education. Visit http://www.hste.org for information and registration (free!). There is a membership flyer attached here:
© 2013 Created by Mark Hines.


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For the fourth time in seven years, the Lynden football team is heading to the Class 2A state championship game. Though Capital added a pair of late touchdowns against the Lions' backups, Lynden won easiely 48-21 in the 2A state semifinals on Friday, Nov. 23, at the Tacoma Dome.
Luke Christian skipped through a hole in the middle of the line and raced 68 yards for his third touchdown of the day, and Lynden started the running clock with 5:42 to play with a 48-7 lead.
Luke Christianson re-establishes a more comfortable lead for Lynden, when he takes an option pitch from Josh Kraght and races 47 yards around the right end for a touchdown and a 41-7 Lions lead with 9:57 left to play.
Capital finally gets on the board with 10:21 left in the game, when Kai Van Sickle bounces a run outside to the right for a 37-yard TD. Lynden still leads 34-7.
Josh Kraght has his second pass of the game intercepted, but Lynden still leads 34-0 at the end of the third quarter.
After getting Capital to turn the ball over on downs, Lynden took the air for a two-play drive that covered 66 yards. Luke Chrsitianson, aided by a crushing block from Zach Vis, took a dump-off pass 43 yards to the Capital 23, before getting behind the Cougars' coverage for a 23-yard touchdown catch and run from Josh Kraght to make it 34-0 Lynden with 9:19 to play in the third quarter.
Lynden might not be setting up for the running clock at the half, like it has in its first three postseason games this year, but a 27-0 lead of Capital is just as impressive. The only thing that didn't go the Lions' way was an interception at the goal line early in the second quarter, but they scored on their other four first-half possessions and didn't let the Cougars inside their territory until less than a minute remained in the half. Statistically speaking, Josh Kraght leads the team with 75 yards and the four TDs on 11 attempts, while Luke Christianson has 60 yards on 10 carries. Kraght has passed for 192 yards, including 104 to Zach Vis on six passes. The defense has allowed only 82 yards of total offense -- all on the ground and surrendered only six first downs.
Josh Kraght's fourth rushing touchdown of the afternoon, this one from 6 yards out around right end, puts Lynden up 27-0 with 1:33 to play in the half.
After throwing an interception at the goal line on Lynden's first drive of the second, Kraght hits Vis for 43 yards to the Capital 11, then goes over the top from a yard out to give Lynden a 21-0 lead with 5:22 left in the first half.
After the first quarter, Lynden has three fourth-down conversions, a pair of defensive stops and a 14-0 lead over Capital in the 2A state semifinal.
Another fourth-down conversion, this one on a 33-yard pass from Josh Kraght to Jalani Phelps, sets up Kraght's 7-yard touchdown run one play later, as Lynden moves ahead 14-0 with 2:42 to play in the first.
Lynden had to covert a pair of fourth downs on its first drive, but the second resulted in a 40-yard quarterback draw up the middle by Josh Kraght to put the Lions up 7-0 with 8:06 left in the first.
Lynden won the toss and, as has become their custom, elected to receive.
Lynden just took the Tacoma Dome field for Warmup Circle in its normal pregame boisterous way. Kickoff of the 2A state semifinal is only 30 minutes away.
Check back for live scoring and quarter updates from the Lynden football team's Class 2A state semifinal against Captial. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 24, at the Tacoma Dome.


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A FOUR-month-old baby is in jail at Dedza Prison. Chimwemwe Abraham has already served one month of the 12 months that her mother was slapped with by the magistrate's court.
For a fight that the mother picked with a friend and the injuries that the friend incurred as a result of the fight, four-months-old innocent child is now to serve a year-long term.
"That is what this means. My child will have to be with me for the duration of the sentence," says the mother who admits guilt and having wounded her colleague in the said fight.
Although innocent, Chimwemwe must live prisoners' daily routine life; getting locked up along the eight only women in the female section of the prison and out at nine in the morning.
Prisoners at Dedza District Prison are allowed out at nine every morning and locked back in later at three in the afternoon.
Human rights activist Gift Trapence said in an interview that government has to treat such cases as emergency and ensure that the rights of all children in this situation are protected.
"We have community service in this country. I think these are the kind of cases where community service should be used. We should also look at the gravity of the offence committed.
"Surely this woman should have been considered that in view of the fact that she has such a young baby," he said observing that imprisoning such a mother is imprisoning the child and therefore infringing on the rights of the child
"In this case, the child is serving a prison sentence on the grounds of the mother. The child in this case will serve a jail term of one year," Trapence said, adding "Is state going to compensate the child for serving the mother's sentence? Something must be done here".
A social welfare officer speaking in her personal capacity said the environment such children are living in is not de-signed for child upbringing such that this is tantamount to abuse.
"In such circumstances our justice system should take things seriously. Child protection must seriously be invoked to ensure that children are not victimised because of their parents. Chimwemwe being abused," she said.
She said this should be a wakeup call for the country to take another look at the prison services in terms of taking care and providing for such innocent children
"We need to have structures where children in such situations are protected and provided what they require," she said


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economz: visualizing your carbon foodprint
When coming to ITP, one of the general themes I knew I wanted to explore was data visualization and how it can actually affect people's day-to-day decision-making and behaviors. There's so much information out there in the world, but structuring this glut of information in forms that can actually be useful in guiding decision-making is something we've barely scratched the surface of.
This general theme inspired the main project of my first semester at ITP: economz, a visualization project that helps people make sense of their carbon FOODprint. By creating meals using popular food items, economz shows the associated carbon footprint of the meal using a gauge we're all familiar with: car miles traveled. The goal of the project is to raise awareness about how food choices have a great impact on one's carbon footprint, to suggest greener meal alternatives, and to hopefully plant the seed of change in people's minds.
The Short Version
The economz website hosts more information about the project. Please see it here (it will be moved to economz.herokuapp.com soon; as well, the featured visualization will be updated to a newer version).
View the code:
- The Processing code of the digital visualization
- The Arduino/Processing code of the physical installation and accompanying digital visualization
- The Ruby/Sinatra code of the economz website
Now, onwards to each component of the project.
Creating the digital visualization in Processing (The Processing code)
A version of the visualization built with Processing and Processing.js is available here. From the very beginning, I knew I wanted the user to interact with the visualization by placing food items on a plate (creating a meal), and then seeing the associated carbon footprint of that meal in the form of a car travelling across the screen (because car travel is one of the main rubrics people think about for carbon emissions). One of the most fun parts of the project was creating the digital dashboard with menus, prompts and buttons. I wanted it to be a self-contained program that could live on the Web with splash screens, buttons, Tweet functionality and more. I am quite happy with how it turned out.
Future work (both planned and possible):
- Ability for user to save the meal visualization they have created (done. pending next version)
- Ability for user to tweet about the meal visualization they have created (done. pending next version)
- Ability for user to toggle different attributes of their meals; for example, how big is the portion? do they eat it once a day? once a week? is it organic? (this is possible, but not currently planned. there is something nice about the simple/straight-forward dashboard with limited options)
Creating the physical installation with Arduino, RFIDs, and Processing (The Arduino/Processing code)
The economz physical installation is powered by serial communication between Arduino and Processing. Physical "fake" food items (like this steak here!) are tagged with RFIDs and communicated to Processing via an NFC/RFID shield and Arduino. Processing is used for the digital visualization.
Here's how it works:
- The user approaches the economz physical installation and encounters 23 different fake food items (various veggies, meats, dairy items, starches, and snacks).
- They select the food items they want to create a meal out of, and then scan each item across a grocery-store-style checkout system (and then place them on a plate). As the items go across the checkout counter, the RFID tag of that food item is detected by the RFID shield on the Arduino, and the screen in front of the user is updated to show the new food item on the plate. If they rescan the item, they can remove it from the plate.
- When they are done creating the meal, they scan a toy hummer SUV to run the car animation and to see the carbon footprint of that meal. At the end, a splash screen appears on the monitor to give them more information about the meal they just created, and to suggest actions for a healthier carbon FOODprint.
- Kids love it! Creating meals "on screen" by using the fake food was a big hit among the kids. However, they didn't really get or care about the environmental commentary of this project. Because of that, it would be interesting to teach kids other things about meals using this setup (for example, "creating a balanced meal"). The interaction with the fake good is great for getting kids involved — now I just need to figure out what "learning activities" actually work for them.
- The physical installation works well and is fantastic for getting the environmental message across. I had several people in the business community express interest about this project being used in conjunction with eco-friendly brands and grocery stores (the idea being that these brands/stores could associate the installation with their product to raise awareness about the importance of eco-friendly food).
- More information/context would be good. One component I could improve is to better contextualize the information people are getting. What is the very best meal? What is the very worst? What is the average? I know this personally (because I worked with the data so much), and so I was able to explain it to people on the spot. However, in the future, I'd like to built it into the installation itself.
Creating the economz website with Ruby/Sinatra (The Ruby/Sinatra code)
The economz website is viewable here (soon to be moved to economz.herokuapp.com). It is built with Ruby/Sinatra, and houses the main Processing.js visualization, information about the project and the physical installation, and a gallery of food items with more information about each item's carbon impact. The gallery of meals is particularly important to the website. It allows visitors to learn more about each food item's carbon footprint and to view, submit, and exchange recipes for those that are "economz-friendly" items. The gallery also has a bit of slick JQuery interactions and a nice color-oriented visual display.
The main future work planned for the website is allow users to save the meal visualization they have created directly to the economz Web gallery of meals. Currently, the user can save the meal visualization locally (to their own computer), but saving it the economz server is a tricky task. Code needs to be written to generate an image from the Processing.js canvas, send it to the economz application server, and then read the image and save it to the database at the application. It turns out generating an image from the canvas and sending it to the application is easy (using html5 and JQuery/AJAX), but actually reading, encoding and saving the image on the application side is much trickier (code needs to be written so that the application can properly encode the image at its end).
economz was a really fun and important project to work on. Special thanks go to my wonderful ITP professors for their support and guidance: Daniel Shiffman (for ICM/Processing), Benedetta Piantella (for Physical Computing/Arduino/RFIDs), and Zevensuy Rodriguez (for Web/Ruby/Sinatra). Also a special thanks goes out to all my ITP colleagues who helped out: Esteban Cordova, Maria Paula Saba, Jess Jung, Caroline Sinders, Wajma Mohseni, and all the other classmates who gave great feedback.


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Stayed there for a weekend and didn't quite enjoy. Hotel used to have a style, but now is old and shabby. Rooms small and extremely noisy, you can here everything that happens in the neighboring rooms and in the corridor. Breakfast was not good either. Location was the only good thing really. It is central, and across the road in... More
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- Presidente Hotel Buenos Aires
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96 years old and still personally unprotected...
JUST as my train of thought had hit top speed and was hurtling through the countryside of my imaginative processes the other day, my telephone rang, causing the aforementioned train to hit the buffers.
I picked up the receiver, prepared to deliver a stern rebuke to the caller if it wasn't important, and my irritation only increased when I was greeted by a few seconds of silence. What followed, however, was definitely not the sort of thing that ought to get in the path of an oncoming train of thought.
"This is an urgent message about your Personal Protection Insurance," a voice said.
"No it isn't," I interrupted.
"If you wish to fast-track your claim for repayment," it went on, totally ignoring me, "press five."
"If I wanted to fast-track my claim for repayment, or even if I wanted to slow-track such a claim," I said, "I would contact my bank. Why did you derail my train of thought from the fast track to the not-going-at-all track by saying this is an urgent call, when it obviously isn't?"
"Yes it is," the voice unexpectedly said.
"How can you say it's urgent when you don't even know if I've ever had a PPI policy?"
"How do you know we don't know?" the voice said.
"I don't even know myself," I said, "and if I don't, then I'm pretty sure that you don't either, and even if you did, you would have no way of knowing whether it was urgent."
"You are taking a very solipsistic view, if I may say so," the voice continued. "I didn't say it was urgent to you; I just said it was urgent. It might be urgent to me, for instance. Or to the state of the British economy."
"How can it be urgent to you?" I asked. "You are an automated machine making random telephone calls to people who mostly hang up on you."
What followed, however, was definitely not the sort of thing that ought to get in the path of an oncoming train of thought
"The word 'urgent', from the Latin urgere, to urge," the voice went on, "merely means requiring immediate attention. It is often taken to imply also a sense of importance, though that was not the case when I used it.
"I think that the fact that you felt obliged to answer the call, thereby forcing your train of thought to make an unnecessary stop, completely confirms that you felt that the call required immediate attention."
"It was the ringing of the wretched thing that required the attention," I said, "not the call itself."
"The ringing," the voice insisted, "is an indispensable part of the call. If it did not ring, you would not answer it and there would be no call."
"But you said it was the message that was urgent. The ringing is not part of the message," I pointed out.
"But as Marshall McLuhan said, 'The medium is the message'," the voice continued, "meaning that the form of a medium embeds itself in the message, creating a symbiotic relationship by which the medium influences how the message is perceived, and by that standard, the ringing phone is indeed part of the message."
That's when I hung up. Now what time does the train of thought leave?


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