Eclec-ti-cal-ly Geeking

This American Life: On HealthCare

2009-10-21T10:20:00.004-04:00

If you have been following the heathcare debate going on in the United States, then these PodCast here are Very informative, the fact is they are a must listen i think. (These Views do not reflect the other 2 members of this site)
Full Episode

An hour explaining the American health care system, specifically, why it is that costs keep rising. One story looks at the doctors, one at the patients and one at the insurance industry.\

Full Episode

This week, we bring you a deeper look inside the health insurance industry. The dark side of prescription drug coupons. A story about Pet Health Insurance, which is in its infancy, and how it is changing human behaviors—for example, if you have the pet health insurance, you bring your pet to the vet more often, and the vet makes more money and...well, you can see the parallels. And insurance company jargon, frighteningly decoded.

http://www.thisamericanlife.org/

An Evening of Hot Chili and Cool Brew Thursday, October 15, 6 pm @ The Newark Museum

2009-10-20T22:20:00.002-04:00

On October 15 2009 I attended one of the best beer tasting events for me to date. The Newark Museum Volunteer Organization and The Newark Museum Business & Community Council hosted An Evening of Hot Chili & Cool Brew. It was one of the Most well organized beer events I have ever witnessed. Because it was on a Thursday night and the venue it was held in , it was calmer than the usual beer festival or tasting.

Those who attend beer tastings, to drink as much as possible, were not in attendance. The Crowd Consisted of museum members, news paper readers, chili fans and Genuine Craft beer fans. All, basically, seemed to acknowledge that Friday was a work day.

The, around, sixty domestic and international beers were presented and poured mostly by Volunteers. There was a slight air of cluelessness to those serving the beers, but that was OK, they were learning as the night went along. Some became craft beer fans in one night. It would have been nice if more Local Brewers attended the event. Those brewers from the Tri state area who did sent proper representatives were Shmaltz-New York, Climax-New Jersey, Cricket Hill -New Jersey, River Horse-New Jersey and Weyerbacher-Pennsylvania (who happened to have the best beer of the evening).

The Chili at the event was mostly decent. Many of the caterers added extra beans as filler to the chili. The Stuff I did try was respectable enough though. There was good Corn Bread all around and some nice desert to round things off. BEER AND ICE CREAM FLOATS also.

Overall it was a Great Event at the Newark Museum. Something I am looking forward to next year.

The following companies for contributed their cool brew & hot chili:

Blue Point, New York	Samuel Adams, Massachusetts
Brooklyn Brewery, New York	Shmaltz, New York
Climax, New Jersey	Sierra Nevada, California
Cricket Hill, New Jersey	Smuttynose, New Hampshire
Duvel, Belgium	Spaten, Germany
Encore Catering	Steenbrugge, Belgium
Franziskaner, Germany	St. Pauli Girl, Germany
Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant, New Jersey	Unibroue, Canada
Harpoon, Massachusetts	Weyerbacher, Pennsylvania
High Point, New Jersey	Exquisite Entertaining
Hilton Newark Penn Station	Frungillo Caterers
Lagunitas, California	Hobby's Delicatessen & Restaurant
Magic Hat, Vermont	Kilkenny Ale House
Maredsous, Belgium	Laurence Craig Catering
Okocim, Poland	Moghul Catering
Ommegang, New York	New World Catering & Food Boutique
Palm, Belgium	Terra Luna Catering
Peak Organic, Maine	Touch Bayou Catering
River Horse, New Jersey	Ultimate Caterers

Matt and "The Monster"- Rock Art Brewery vs. Monster Energy Drink

2009-10-14T17:23:00.001-04:00

Matt Nadeau of Rock Art Brewery (http://rockartbrewery.com/), sits down with Green River Pictures to let the world know his side of the Monster Energy drink Trademark lawsuit.

An attack has been launched on Matt and Renee of Rock Art brewery
SEptember 14 , 2009 an energy drink issues a cease and desist order on :
THE VERMONSTER
the energy drink Claims that consumers will likely be confused with the two products.
I have Input from 5 Trademark lawyers In various states saying: No infringement issue. Clearly a "nuisance lawsuit".
You will lose because they have the financial resources that can wear you down till you can not afford to fund the fight, Then THey win by default. Rock Art Brewery has the beer trademark to
The vermonster
in the state of vermont.
the american pledge of allegiance does not say
"and justice for all who have the deepest pockets"
I have offered to meet the energy drink halfway and give up my rights to my Vermont trademarked VERmonster in energy drinks
read my official response letter here
This is quickly cruising the web, twitter and facebook please show your support for our small brewery.
learn how stores have pulled the energy drink and the parent company's products,
a natural drinks company, in support of our efforts.

contact Rock Art Brewery rockart@pwshift.com

as and FYI #Beer&Wine Tasting @ Mompou Tapas lounge 10-15-09 (not going, better even @ Newark Museum)

2009-10-13T10:48:00.005-04:00

Mompou
Tapas, Wine Bar, Lounge 77 Ferry St.
Newark, NJ 07105 Toll-Free: 866-99-TAPAS
Phone: 973-578-8114
Fax: 973-578-8117 info@mompoutapas.com

Morning bike Ride Called on My own stupidity

2009-10-12T11:07:00.001-04:00

Well as some know, I get up at, what my comrade iZatherez proclaims is an “UNGODLY” hour, around four thirty a.m. , to get my morning cardio with a brisk bike ride. At minimum I ride about twenty minutes, in the quiet and tranquil, lemon yellowish gaslight illuminated streets of South Orange New Jersey. It’s a hilly area, so its and interesting work out.

This morning I got up and checked the temperature. It’s fall so the temperature is unhurriedly falling towards the winter harshness. I checked it and the temperature outside read forty six degrees, Fahrenheit. So I figured that would be ok, got dressed warmly all except for my frellin gloves, I have these, now stupid, bike gloves with no finger tips. When I went downhill I felt all the heat leach out of my hands into the passing wind. !!!! I just had to call it quits at that point. I don’t need frozen fingers when my job involves typing.

Lesson learned, when temperature goes down, WEAR PROPPER FRELLIN GLOVES.

How Can I Support My Craft Brew?

2009-10-09T10:52:00.000-04:00

The first and best way to support your favorite craft brewer is to purchase their beers, and if they are not sold in your local liquor store, ask the manager to stock it. Most will willing to bring in beer they know will be purchased.

http://www.newbrewthursday.com/?p=36

Tonight (or any night for that matter ) is a good night to support you local Craft Brewer,EnjoY a cold one and kick back and relax! TGIF

Gigantor - Kobe

2009-10-06T10:44:00.003-04:00

Japan Does it again, another coool Giant Robot, G I G A N T O R !!!!
Found on

miho's dad's photostream on Flickr

Free from the planning and the scaffolding, the $1.5 million Gigantor (or Tetsujin) statue is now complete. More here aloso http://gizmodo.com/5375245/gigantor-lives

Starbucks VIA Italian Roast = Meh

2009-10-03T21:54:00.001-04:00

20090930-SDIM0254
Originally uploaded by gservo

Compared to other Instant Coffee’s , Like Nescafe taster Choice Columbian, the VIA Italian Roast Is not bad. It Mixes Better, faster, seems more flavorful. Is it the best thing since sliced bread. NO . (About the coffee in question Visit Starbucks website - http://www.starbucks.com/VIA/)

To me, Starbucks really does not make good coffee anyway, expensive, utility coffee at best, and the Via Reminds me of what they sell in the store. It’s a good attempt at something others have been doing since World War 2, I believe. The worse thing starbuck could of done was make the coffee bad, they did not. BUT I think they spent too much time on the aesthetics of the coffee, the fineness of the powder and the packaging, and what the coffee would be served in and not the coffee.

If you’re in a fix, this is Decent, but expensive convenience coffee. It your actually care about what coffee you drink and how you drink it, this is not for you. Get a French Press Coffee Tumbler, grind your coffee, separate out it out to 2 or 3 servings and have some access to hot water. You will get better coffee that way and probably spend less. Or drink water its better for you anyway.
Oh and Why the hell do I want to go to StarBucks to by INSTANT COFFEE, I think that is such a STUPID idea.

Be Well, Drink Good Coffee Keep in touch

An Evening of Hot Chili and Cool Brew Thursday, October 15, 6 pm @ The Newark Museum

2009-10-02T10:16:00.004-04:00

click here for printable brochure (PDF)

The Newark Museum Volunteer Organization and The Newark Museum Business & Community Council Invite you to Taste more than 60 of the finest domestic and international beers and sample meat and vegetarian chilis and other tantalizing treats in the setting of the beautiful Newark Museum.

Guests will have exclusive access to the historic Victorian Ballantine House, home of the famed beer-brewing family, and the exhibitions Party Time: Re-imagine America, a Centennial commission by internationally acclaimed artist Yinka Shonibare MBE, and 100 Masterpieces of Art Pottery, 1880-1930, featuring the Museum's internationally known collection of art pottery.

Image: Catherine A. Patt, Oktoberfest, oil on canvas, Courtesy of the artist.

Exciting Raffle Prizes

Tickets: $50 per person/$90 per couple
(All but $15 of each ticket is tax deductible)
This is a 21 and over event. All ticket and sponsor proceeds benefit the Newark Museum.

To purchase tickets by credit card, become a sponsor or make a donation, kindly call 973-596-6559, or mail checks to:

Newark Museum
An Evening of Hot Chili & Cool Brew
49 Washington Street
Newark, New Jersey 07102-3176

We thank the following companies for contributing their cool brew & hot chili:

Blue Point, New York Samuel Adams, Massachusetts
Brooklyn Brewery, New York Shmaltz, New York
Climax, New Jersey Sierra Nevada, California
Cricket Hill, New Jersey Smuttynose, New Hampshire
Duvel, Belgium Spaten, Germany
Encore Catering Steenbrugge, Belgium
Franziskaner, Germany St. Pauli Girl, Germany
Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant, New Jersey Unibroue, Canada
Harpoon, Massachusetts Weyerbacher, Pennsylvania
High Point, New Jersey Exquisite Entertaining
Hilton Newark Penn Station Frungillo Caterers
Lagunitas, California Hobby's Delicatessen & Restaurant
Magic Hat, Vermont Kilkenny Ale House
Maredsous, Belgium Laurence Craig Catering
Okocim, Poland Moghul Catering
Ommegang, New York New World Catering & Food Boutique
Palm, Belgium Terra Luna Catering
Peak Organic, Maine Touch Bayou Catering
River Horse, New Jersey Ultimate Caterers

.

Image: Catherine A. Patt, Oktoberfest, oil on canvas, Courtesy of the artist.

NJ Beer Goes here: New Jersey Beer Company.

2009-09-23T13:59:00.003-04:00

Yep, a New Brewery is opening up in North Bergen, NJ. They are well under way in getting them selves up and running . It will be nice to see a New Beer Company Launch. I, as well as some friends, will be there for their opening. Their Beers look Interesting and I am really looking forward to trying their ‘Garden State Stout’.

The NJ Beer Company has already made preliminary agreements with Nash Distributors in Kearny and VRR in Passaic to get our beers into your local bars, restaurants, and retail locations. Their beers will be available in Hudson, Bergen, Essex, and Passaic Counties in North Eastern New Jersey.

Their website http://www.njbeerco.com is under construction and will be undergoing constant updates and improvements, so please check back often. For updates, follow them on Twitter or Facebook using the buttons at the top of their site .

NJ BeerCo’s Year Round Brews -

Hudson Pale Ale

The Hudson is an American-style Pale Ale, with a bright, hoppy nose, smooth mouthfeel and quick, light finish. This represents a great introduction to the world of hoppy beers and should whet the appetite of true Hop Heads for what is yet to come.

Garden State Stout

Our stout is a strong, full-bodied chocolate stout, brewed with real belgian dark chocolate and dark malt, with just enough hop character to balance the sweetness.

1787 Abbey Single

The 1787 makes a great session beer. It's light sweetness and distinctive belgian taste make it emminently approachable and perfectly refreshing.

Seasonal Brews - Coming Spring 2010

Limited Release Brews - Coming December 2009”

Commuter Comics… Magog #1 (DC Comics) Spoiler free

2009-09-22T15:19:00.003-04:00

Well I read Magog #1, it has been out a few weeks, but I am just getting to it. Written by Keith Giffen; Art and variant cover by Howard Porter and John Dell; Cover by Glenn Fabry, the book sort of Reintroduce this Member of the Justice Society of America. This Character, with Roots in the original ‘Kingdom Come’ Story and Reintroduced around the Latest Crisis of the DC Universe, was initially somewhat of a ‘Cable’ rip-off (it happens a lot in comics Look at Deadpool and Deathstroke, no really). I like the way current storylines get you past that now.

Anyhoo, this Story, this series even, is a fluff peace of a comic for me. I think it’s supposed to lead him down a similar path he was theoretically supposed to go down in ‘Kingdom Come’ leading new heroes to be more aggressive, destructive way of doing things, with lots of seemingly futile aggression. This is a Story, I believe that should be light weaved through the Justice Society of America more that a series. In this day of price rising back up stories, it would fit that mold also.

I will avoid the Retcon (Retroactive continuity is the deliberate changing of previously established facts in a work of serial fiction. )issues I have with the book, they are not that important, just something that’s needs to be noted.

If you are new to Magog, Read Kingdom Come, it is well worth it.

[Updated] My #Photog Wish list (looking for suggestions…)

2009-09-16T12:00:00.001-04:00

(… and I will except donations , test equipment etc lol ) Anyhooo, I am planning on going deeper down the rabbit whole of photography. In my research I have been crafting this list of things I want to own. I do not want to purchase these things all at once, but over time. This is a Work in Progress, and any Suggestions would be welcomed appreciated.

-Update- After An Existential Crisis during my week off from normal reality , in my down times, I got to think about my Camera Wants and needs. I got to do a ton more research and talk to a photographer or two, and well, I came to the conclusion that the Nikon D5000 was just not right for me. It’s a fine Camera but… … there are others. For a little more money, this camera would work better, so here it is, the new list buying a camera, the way I am doing it, is an experience, more on that later…

Well here is the current working list.

-Nikon D90 12.3MP DX Digital SLR Camera or Sigma SD14

- 18-105mm VR Lens or 18-200 mm

- 50mm f/1.8D prime

-12-24mm Nikkor 0r 10-20mm Sigma

-Lens Pouch

- Neck Strap

- 2 x SanDisk - 8GB Extreme III Secure Digital (SDHC) Card - 30MB/s Edition

-Glass Lens Filters

- Lowepro - Topload Zoom 1 Camera Holster Bag

-ML-L3 Remote Control Transmitter if I get nikon

-Flash (yet to be determined, which one)

-Seat Belt Camera Strap

-Level Camera cube

-White Balance lens Cap

-Monster Pod

-MB-D80 Multi-Power Battery Pack if I get the Nikon

- Versipod II Monopod/Tripod Combination

-Desk Tripod

As things change, are acquired, and/or discovered, this list will change

You can tell a man who boozes by the company he chooses and the pig got up and walked away

2009-09-04T10:46:00.001-04:00

Test
Originally uploaded by gservo

I have been distracted, disturbed, hell even a little demented. I have also been A slightly consumed by something I've always wanted to do, but never could justify, till now. I have, moreover, been Moving. This entails deconstructing and reconstructing a kitchen, throwing out all the planning, which is also something that, looks as if ,to have become a sick and twisted exercise in time wasting.

It is good theater, replete with the appropriate, seemingly sadistic props. It is all very very frustrating. There are a ton of underlying issues which make this all very tense. The best part of it all is all sides involved seem at fault, so there is no 1 to blame. Most of the summer seems wasted due to all this.
Bah
Is this going anywhere, no I’m venting for you all to see.

Here is a poem, I like, see how far down I have fallen!
Moving Day
by Ron Koertge
While sitting home one night, I hear burglars fiddling
with the lock. This is what I've been waiting for!

I run around to the back and open the door, invite
them in, and pour some drinks. I tell them to relax,
and I help them off with shoes and masks.

In a little while we are fast friends, and after a dozen
toasts to J. Edgar Hoover, they begin to carry things out.
I point to the hidden silver, hold the door as they
wrestle with the bed, and generally make myself useful.

When they get the truck loaded and come back inside
for one last brandy, I get the drop on them. Using Spike's
gun, I shoot them both and imprint Blackie's
prints on the handle.

Then I get in the van and drive away,
a happy man.

"Moving Day" by Ron Koertge, from Making Love to Roget's Wife: Poems New and Selected. © University of Arkansas Press, 1997.

Here are the comics we pulled For Comics shipping 08/26/09

2009-08-28T06:06:00.001-04:00

This is your brain on too much anime & comics...
Originally uploaded by gservo

Avengers Initiative #27

Batman And Robin #3

Blackest Night Titans #1 (OF 3)

Dark Avengers #8

Dark X-Men Beginning #3 (OF 3)

Deadpool #14

Detective Comics #856

Doctor Who Cold-Blooded War (One Shot)

Flash Rebirth #4 (OF 6)

Gold Digger Tech Manual #7

Gotham City Sirens #3

Green Lantern #45

Grimm Fairy Tales Cvr A Campbell #41

Justice Society Of America #30

Last Days Of Animal Man #4 (OF 6)

New Avengers #56

New Mutants #4

Nova #28

Phantom Generations #4

Secret Warriors #7

Skrull Kill Krew #4 (OF 5)

Star Wars Dark Times #14

Star Wars Legacy #39

Superman #691

Supermans Pal Jimmy Olsen Special #2

Timestorm 2009 2099 #4 (OF 4)

Wednesday Comics #8 (OF 12)

X-Force #18

PhotoFu; GServo's Thoughts on the Sigma DP2

2009-08-24T14:58:00.007-04:00

I did not discern what I was in store for when I received my loaner Sigma DP2 Camera. Oh The scores of Pictures I have taken, accompanied by fanatical laughter (using my inside voice of course, no really!!! ). It has to be understood, I really have developed an affection for this camera. The pictures were so pleasant to take and behold. So far the Sigma Dp2 is the best camera I've ever used.

First off the DP2 boldly has the heart of a DLSR thumping at its core. Saying that, it’s a camera preordained for people with a certain level of patience. This Camera is not sympathetic to rushing shots. The camera works best when you put modest thought towards taking a picture. What its FOVEON X3® picks up is amazing. The camera is not hard to learn, especially if you have experience with ‘Manual mode’ on other cameras.

If you don’t have experience, it will take a little determination to get your pictures correct, initially. The menus were very easy for this geek to learn. I did not have any issues with them what so ever. My Geek Intuition Wrapped my brain around it very fast. Adjusting things was very easy, and the DP2’s manual focus was purely splendid.

The Sigma has an Amazing 'Depth of Field' control to it. I was caught off guard at first. The first set of pictures I took were at a Train station I use every day. I got to look at the station in a new light after those initial shots. The DP2’s Manual Focus was my favorite part of the Camera, I rarely did not use it.

The Camera’s Body was unique. As I was using it, I sometimes got the comment that the Camera did not look like much. That’s one of my Favorite things about the camera. It's a great camera to hold, fitting in my hands nicely. Very lite to me, but not flimsy.

Sigma DP2 Specs
-Format FOVEON X3® Direct

-Image Sensor (CMOS) Image Sensor Size 20.7×13.8mm (0.8 inch×0.5 inch)

-Number of Pixels Effective Pixels 14.06MP (2652×1768×3 layers)

-Aspect Ratio 3:2 Focal Length 24.2mm F2.8 (35mm equivalent focal length:41mm) –

-Lens Construction 6 Groups 7

-Elements Shooting Range 28cm??(Full Mode)

-Storage Media SD Card/Compatible with SDHC,Multi Media Card

Full Specs here http://sigma-dp.com/DP2/specification.html

It’s Hard to complain about anything on this Camera. It Performed as it should have. Did I desire anything? Yes, an optical zoom of some sort would have been nice. In the end that is just my personal opinion. I am just a student in the art of Photo Fu.

Shooting with the Sigma DP2 made me feel like a trainee being able to practice with a master level sword for the first time. I have a bit of faith that says I will own this camera or maybe it's predecessor, one day. Sigma would be a fool not to continue the evolution of the DP line. I didn't want to write this review at all. It basically meant I was at the twilight of my demo period. I have to reluctantly return the Sigma dp2b.This makes my heart is heavy.

The Sigma DP2 does not play to the Common understanding. It’s a Piece of art meant to produce art.

Created with flickr slideshow.

Thanks To www.akihabaranews.com for the Inspiration

Thanks to Sigma for the Camera Loan

Operation Sigma DP2
Done

Thinking about Droping Some X-Books

2009-08-18T15:04:00.004-04:00

For the first time in all years I've been reading x titles I thinking about dropping a few of them, ive dropped Wolverine and Wolverine Origins Months ago. The Troubling thing now is this new NECROSHA Story line. I got my Zombies in DC thank you, this story line seems too similar. ALSO Marvel seems to be putting some other New X Titles that may be more interesting.

The Titles on the chopping block are

X-FORCE

NEW MUTANTS

WOLVERINE WEAPON X

Thought it would be more? Well it's not just Droping, there are a host of books im just refuse to pick up like

PSYLOCKE #1 (of 4)

WOLVERINE FIRST CLASS

UNCANNY X-MEN: FIRST CLASS

X-BABIES

With these Drops at least i can keep up with Deadpool...

Torn Between Two Styles of Camera, DSLR/Micro 4/3 and the Sigma DP2 a quick rant

2009-08-17T15:37:00.004-04:00

As I write and think about my review for the Sigma DP2, (I am very close to buying one),there is one issue. I have doubt and i have extremely Cold feet about committing to the purchase. I am on the verge of Making the biggest Camera Purchase I have ever made in my geeky like and I am not sure what the correct path is.

Here is the Issue, I am trying to figure out what type of a photographer I want to be. A DSLR user who might possibly want to sell some photos' one day, Having the choice between a multitude of lenses? Or do i want to be an artistic photographer who wants to have fun with a camera in my spare time?

When you read my review and thoughts on the Sigma DP2, you will see it’s a totally different beast than a DSLR even thought they share a similar sensor and purchasing it, may have to wait for a bit. It all boils down to how much I want to learn at the moment. I feel if I get the Sigma DP2, even though I will take some of the best pictures ever. I might not learn enough.

I lump the Micro 4/3 Camera’s and the DLSR’s into the same pool because they are basically that similar, to me. The things that make Micro 4/3 and DLSRs different, are another issue all together. so it's not the focus, I will most likely use them in the same manner anyhoo.

So what do I do? Do I go for the Sigma DP2 which I am totally infatuated with. Or do I put it on hold and go the DLSR route, which I have a whole lot to learn about, especially when it comes to lens use. Decision decisions

Created with flickr slideshow.

Here are the comics we pulled For Comics shipping 08/12/09

2009-08-12T13:45:00.001-04:00

3 Green Lantern #Blackestnight books this week
Originally uploaded by gservo

Action Comics #880

Adventure Comics #1

Batman #689

Blackest Night #2 (OF 8)

Blackest Night Batman #1 (OF 3)

Booster Gold #23

Cable #17

Deadpool #13

Escape From Wonderland Cvr A Campbell #1 (OF 6)

Farscape Dargos Trial #1

Gold Digger Tiffany & Charlotte 2nd Semester #2 (OF 4)

Green Lantern Corps #39

Prototype #5 (OF 6)

Red Robin #3

Superman Secret Files 2009 #1

Uncanny X-Men #514

Wednesday Comics #6 (OF 12)

Relativity-10j1

2009-08-10T21:01:00.001-04:00

Relativity-10j1
Originally uploaded by gservo

Artistic interlude

I am GServo and this is Eclec-ti-cal-ly Geeking

2009-08-07T22:28:00.001-04:00

Stone Brewing Cali-Belgique IPA
Originally uploaded by gservo

Cheers

I have to get one of these with my company logo's

2009-08-06T22:42:00.000-04:00

It's Comics book day again

2009-08-05T14:53:00.001-04:00

This is your brain on too much anime & comics...
Originally uploaded by gservo

Here are the comics we are pulling For Comics shipping 08/05/09

Agents Of Atlas #9

Buffy The Vampire Slayer #27

Captain America Reborn #2 (OF 5)

Deadpool Merc With A Mouth #2

Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep #2 (OF 24)

Doctor Who Classics Series 2 #9

Invincible Iron Man #16

Justice League Cry For Justice #2 (OF 7)

Phantom Ghost Who Walks Cvr A #4

Secret Six #12

Star Wars Dark Times Blue Harvest #0

Star Wars Invasion #2 (OF 5)

Superman World Of New Krypton #6 (OF 12)

War Machine #8

War Of Kings #6 (OF 6)

Warlord #5

Wednesday Comics #5 (OF 12)

Panasonic Lumix GH1 Quick Tour (Camera pron)

2009-08-04T18:52:00.002-04:00

Panasonic Lumix GH1 Quick Tour
Uploaded by AkihabaraNews. - Technology reviews and science news videos.

For my next Trick I will turn this water into caffeinated joy

2009-08-04T08:26:00.002-04:00

On Coffee, Baristaonduty’s coffee that is.

For the first time in my life, I actually have a favorite coffee. Gasp, after a few years of sampling a multiplicity of different coffees, here and there, I finally found a coffee that, I can declare, I will buy again and again. You see, at home, I like my coffee to be consistent. I don’t want to think about what coffee to make. I just want to grind it put in the press, sit down, and read comics. I just want the coffee to be damn good.

My now preferred coffee comes from the pan of Baristaonduty.com. There, coffee is patiently roasted, to provide great flavor. The first coffee I had from Baristaonduty was the house blend. I went through my standard battery of making coffee with the House blend and was pleasantly surprised. My Standard ways of coffee making at home consist of Typical French press method, French press with shredded coconut, and Cold Brew French press. The Coffee was fantastic in all ways. At first, I thought this had now become my favorite coffee but I was mistaken.

I next got the Harrar and Yirgacheffe from BaristaOnDuty, these two coffee’s ‘oh damn my’ so very good. I am not a proper coffee taster/barista so I lack the vocabulary to describe the subtle complexities of these coffees that make them so damn exceptional. These two coffees went through my standard battery of making coffee. They had such a geeky nobility to them . I am torn between the Harrar and Yirgacheffe. I can’t pick a Favorite. I think as I order future batches I will just cycle back and forth between the two.

About Baristaonduty.com is an Idea, where all Baristas & Coffee Enthusiasts can meet, and discuss the latest in the Coffee Industry. B.O.DY Formed in 2001, as Nashi's Gourmet, since then, we have grown a lot more knowledgeable about our product, and Industry.

GonzoFest

2009-08-04T08:22:00.001-04:00

GonzoFest
Originally uploaded by Flying Dog Brewery

I have to miss this, this year... damn

Good weekend all, some NJ biking links of intrest

2009-08-01T07:16:00.002-04:00

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) publishes several bicycle tour guides, including the 238-mile High Point to Cape May Bike Route and the East Coast Greenway Multi-use Trail Guide.

New Jersey Trails on MTBR ,MtbREVIEW.com supports IMBA and responsible riding

A Place for when i get skinny http://diablofreeridepark.com/

Go out, enjoy the day

The Fun

2009-07-28T23:40:00.001-04:00

Trains Late
Originally uploaded by gservo

It Begins.

Sigma DP2 Test shots, with very little reading of Manual, camera's shows lots of potential

Camera: SIGMA DP2
Exposure: 0.003 sec (1/320)
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 24.2 mm
ISO Speed: 50
Exposure Bias: +1 EV
Flash: No Flash

My Top 3 issues for Comics for the Week of Jul 29, 2009

2009-07-28T09:54:00.002-04:00

Recently Updated
Originally uploaded by gservo

This week was have Blackest Night Tales Of The Corps #3 (OF 3). The First issue started off a little weak, Sotries were just a little off to me. The second issue, now picking up the pace and having more intresting characters, there in, was much better. I am hoping the third book of this series ends strongly.
In this 3-issue miniseries, writers Geoff Johns and Peter J. Tomasi (GREEN LANTERN CORPS) reveal the secrets behind the Lanterns of BLACKEST NIGHT! Bear witness to Blue Lantern Saint Walker's pilgrimage of hope, Star Sapphire Carol Ferris' sacrifice for love, Green Lantern Kilowog's courageous beginnings, Red Lantern Vice's source of rage, Orange Lantern Blume's bizarre creation, and the first appearance of the mysterious Indigo, leader of the Indigo Tribe!

Another book I am looking forward to this week is Fantastic Four #569 with this issue I can drop the book from my monthly put list, it was an ‘ok’ run for writers, Joe Ahearne & Mark Millar, but I sort of found it lacking
Double-Sized Finale to "The Masters of Doom!" featuring the last stand of the ragged FF before the triumphant Marquis of Death, as only the mind of Mark Millar could conceive it! And should Marvel's first family survive that, they've got the wedding of the Thing to look forward to!

Last, but not least if my Favorite Star War’s Comic at the moment Star Wars Legacy #38, this book has bee consistently good and moving the Star Wars Story Forward, for me at least.
Living a pirate's life is as easy as bilaberry patogga when you're an ex-Jedi with loyal compatriots -- especially if you're stealing from Black Sun pirates who are stealing from the Empire. Well, it is until both sides figure out your game.
Now under the scrutiny of Black Sun and the Empire, Cade Skywalker and crew are anxious to get away from Tatooine. Agents Gunner Yage and Morrigan Corde are hot on Cade's trail, one of them still having a chip on her shoulder from a past encounter. And Black Sun's Vigo is planning something special for Cade and the Imperial agents. If only the Mynock's engines would start, all this trouble could be left behind...

"Star Wars: Legacy [is] a book beautifully illustrated by Jan Duursema and inked by Dan Parsons." - The Washington Times

Middleman Comic Con 09 - Table Read

2009-07-28T07:35:00.002-04:00

2 of us here are MiddleMan Geeks

Wish I brought my real camera on this mornings bike ride

2009-07-26T08:21:00.001-04:00

Wish I brought my real camera
Originally uploaded by gservo

Lesson Learned

This morning i woke up to do my morning ride. It was a new route for me. I chose to ride along Brookside Drive in Millburn, New Jersey. On Sunday Mornings, the township closes this road, for bike riding till about South Orange Avenue, a few miles i think. Brook side Drive passes through South Mountain Reservation and is very scenic. On a bike it's even more scenic

Why Did i not bring my Camera? it just stopped raining before i left home, and i was not sure if it would rain again, so i chose just to focus on the ride.Did it rain again, no e chu ta !!! No, it was just nice. The ride was even better than i thought it would be. I ran into Diamond Mill pond and it looked amazing with the mist. I had my phone with me at least.

So for future reference, i am just going to keep my camera with me at all times, don't want to miss anything.

Tron Legacy Trailer

2009-07-25T06:11:00.000-04:00

Faint

Beer and Biking

2009-07-24T13:24:00.003-04:00

Beer and Biking
Originally uploaded by gservo

And here it is GServo Biking, what I call 'a hobby for my health'. Bicycling is one of my most recent ‘things to do.’ It has been amusing since I got my ‘Giant: Brass 1” From Diamond Bicycle in Montclair NJ. There appears to be something that I enjoy about this that I can’t explain. I’ve been gradually building up my bicycle riding stamina hanging out with my friend iZatherez ( a fellow writer (if he gets off his ass and writes some more ) on this very site.) My wife agrees it be been very beneficial to me. I get up at the blasphemous time of 4:30 am just to get a quick fifteen to twenty minute outing, as much as possible.

The Great thing about biking is that when done right, it’s an effective form of aerobic exercise with many health benefits. Cycling can burn the calories in a chocolate bar or a couple of alcoholic drinks in one hour, 300 calories. Translated into contemporary lifestyle terms, a fifteen-minute bike ride, five times and a week, burns off 11 pounds of fat a year and meets the necessities for reducing heath risk and crying Havoc , letting slip the Mecha dogs of war against fat cells of doom . Also if you’re apprehensive about weight gain from drinking too much beer, it’s a good way to balance things out.

Simply put, Time on a bike will ease of your beer calories. And Beer can be Better than Water after Exercise. A pint of beer post-workout is better at rehydrating the human body than water. ( You can read more here on exercise and beer here)

Weekend Picture Highlights

2009-07-20T13:57:00.003-04:00

Some Post to come soon, just a little busy at the moment, here are some pictures from my weekend, enjoy. Photostream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gservo/

Mobile Suit Gundam

2009-07-12T11:01:00.001-04:00

Mobile Suit Gundam
Originally uploaded by cocoip

Mobile Suit Gundam Full-scale. Height:18m. At Odaiba, Tokyo.
Best Pic yet in my honest opinion

SIGMA DP2 ISO 200 SAMPLES NIGHT

2009-07-11T12:27:00.001-04:00

SIGMA DP2 ISO 200 SAMPLES NIGHT
Originally uploaded by Akihabara News

This photo, here, made me totally rethink my future camera purchase.

I first read about about Camera on http://www.akihabaranews.com

Sigma DP2 Specs

• 14 megapixel FOVEON X3 direct image sensor (2,652 × 1,768 × 3 layers) as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR
• 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera
• The DP2 incorporates “TRUE II” which is an improved version of “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for the three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor
• RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience
• Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3 stop increments from +3.0 to -3.0 stops and an auto bracketing function is also available

- Effective Pixels 14.06MP (2652×1768×3 layers)
- Aspect Ratio 3:2
- Focal Length 24.2mm F2.8 (35mm equivalent focal length:41mm)
- Lens Construction 6 Groups 7 Elements
- ISO Sensitivity AUTO (ISO 100-ISO 200) : With Flash (ISO 100,ISO 400), ISO 50, ISO 100, ISO 200, ISO 400, ISO 800, ISO 1600

More on my other Camera Choice later

Too early?

2009-07-09T06:43:00.000-04:00

I'm in new york could not sleep, caught 5:07 to 33 in New York walked to 9th street, then to washington square park
G.Knox .
From Mobile Device Everywhere and Nowhere all at once

My Top 3 Book Books for Comics for the Week of Jul 8, 2009

2009-07-07T15:04:00.001-04:00

3
Originally uploaded by gservo

why? There are 3 because it's three books i have been waiting for for a while.

Batman #688 This is the Real Beginning for this title, the last issue was just a requiem. Now the fun begins, hopefully.

DC COMICS - $2.99
There may be a new Batman in Gotham City, but that doesn't mean the city wants him. As Two-Face and Penguin take... More http://ifanboy.com/comics/dc_comics/batman/688

Green Lantern #43 I feel like i have been waiting for this book for like 2 years, Gonna Have a Beer with this one, something Dark

DC COMICS - $2.99
The official prologue to BLACKEST NIGHT starts here as the first Black Lantern is born! Black Hand has been an enemy... More http://ifanboy.com/comics/dc_comics/green_lantern/43

Wednesday Comics #1 (OF 12) Just Because its really different

DC COMICS - $3.99
In July, DC Comics gives a fresh twist to a grand comics tradition with WEDNESDAY COMICS, a new, weekly 12-issue... More http://ifanboy.com/comics/dc_comics/wednesday_comics/1_(of_12)

A great ride 4.25 miles

2009-07-05T09:17:00.000-04:00

G.Knox .
From Mobile Device Everywhere and Nowhere all at once

Riding with Izathrez he finds interesting things

2009-07-05T08:21:00.000-04:00

G.Knox .
From Mobile Device Everywhere and Nowhere all at once

Around 7 Days Since I got my bike

2009-07-04T09:10:00.004-04:00

Stuff i just ordered for 'tehbrass'
Milwaukee Safety Glasses Clear Hard Coat
Milwaukee Safety Glasses Silver Mirror Hard Coat
Delta Mega Rack Post Haste Quick Release Bicycle Seat Post Rack
Delta Mega Rack Bicycle Cargo Net
The Seat by Ergo - Lycra Gel Saddle-Black
Originally uploaded by gservo

The things I’ve learned, I’m still fat! ^_^
Riding in the Morning, around 5 am, is one of the best wakes up, also peaceful

Seats for skinny people are not that comfortable.

Building certain types of Stamina is like learning to walk, you take it one step, one ride at a time, and just try to keep doing more.

Safety Glasses needed it, that rock that grazed next to my eye was not funny.

The Giant Brass 1 is a grand ride though. It handles my heaviness well and it’s a great bit of exercise. The pedals are well-built (laugh it up SpaZJP ) as well as the shocks. I am glad I’ve added riding to my exercise routine

Comic Thoughts:Of Craft Beer and the Justice League of America

2009-07-02T15:31:00.001-04:00

Comic Thoughts:Of Craft Beer and the Justice League of America
Originally uploaded by gservo

I was thinking of what Craft Beers some select members of the Justice League would have when/if they had a rare moment to kick back and shoot the shit in their Headquarters, in Current Continuity. Superman Would be Drinking Blind Tiger KC’s Choice American Style Pilsner, Leaving a Bottle of Samuel Adams Utopias and a Crystal Glass were the deceased Batman would be sitting. Wonder woman would be drinking Hydromel, which literally means “water-honey” in Greek, a Very light low alcohol mead, of unknown origin. Green Lantern would have brought a six pack of Flying Dogs Tire Bite, he would love the Color on the label. The Flash (Wally West) would have a 12 Pack of Dogfish Heads 60 Minute IPA, he drinks fast.
I stopped there because none of those Characters are on the Current Justice League team. I don’t know why DC Comics does this. They put the Justice League through this Cycle of Starting off the A list Hero’s getting rid of them, leaving the team with B list and C list hero’s. Sales on the book Drop. They restart the Justice League with the A List again and the Sales are back up.
I read Justice League for the A List Mixed with the B & C list heroes. Without them there, the quality of the comic diminishes. There is no reason to read a Justice League Comic without Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern and the Flash

Coffee Drinks Illustrated

2009-07-02T14:21:00.001-04:00

Coffee Drinks Illustrated
Originally uploaded by twoeyes

I found this on Flickr i think it's Brilliant. Ive recently developed a liking for Americano's

Top 7 Comics I am anticipating for books shipping the Week of Jul 1, 2009

2009-07-01T13:33:00.001-04:00

Why 7, I like the number , these books are in Alphabetical order, it was easier that way

Agents Of Atlas #7 [This book has been Consistently good and different for marvel.]

MARVEL COMICS - $2.99

Journey to the Deep!! The Agents and the Sub-Mariner face not only a deadly attack beneath the ocean, but Namor and... More

Batman And Robin #2 [The First issue brought the fun back to Batman even with the mourning in the background]

DC COMICS - $2.99

"Batman Reborn" continues with the reteaming of Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely (ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, WE3,... More

Deadpool Merc With A Mouth #1 [It’s DeadPool nuff said’]

MARVEL COMICS - $3.99

"HEAD TRIP," Part 1 of 6 It's the Merc with two mouths! Deadpool travels to the Savage Land to retrieve... More

Fantastic Four #568 [The last issue, made my jaw drop, Not going to spoil the ending, but im hoping this does not get retconned ]

MARVEL COMICS - $2.99

The penultimate chapter of THE MASTER OF DOOM, as Reed Richards is offered a Solomon's choice by the triumphant... More

Gold Digger #108 [I’m always awaiting this comic, it is a favorite]

Antarctic Press - $2.99

The new-reader-friendly direction of Gold Digger continues!
Tifanny, Pojo and Charlotte go with Gina on a prep school field trip to do some real-life paleontology at a real dinosaur fossil site. Charlotte finds what appears to be a fifty-pound, peanut-shaped rock, which turns out to be a Saurian egg, preserved using that lost race's technology. When the cute baby Saurian inside wakes up, the kids befriend him, but for some reason, Gina thinks Saurians are too dangerous to live. Can Tif' and company keep their new friend Houston, the last Saurian, at home without being caught?

Green Lantern Corps #38 [the last Pre Blackest Night issue woot]

DC COMICS - $2.99

"Emerald Eclipse" hits its shocking conclusion leading directly into BLACKEST NIGHT. The sciencell riot... More

Star Wars Invasion #1 (OF 5) [Ive been waiting for this Story line to hit comics for years!!!]

DARK HORSE COMICS - $2.99

A new series comes to Dark Horse's Star Wars line! After its special sixteen-page May preview on starwars.com, Star... More

empire shift

2009-07-01T13:08:00.001-04:00

empire shift
Originally uploaded by gservo

test post from flickr

PhotoFu- P is for Program Mode

2009-06-29T13:45:00.003-04:00

A disclaimer, I suck at photography, like most things I do, but I enjoy it. I do it because it’s something new to learn, I don't apologize for my suckyness though, not at all.

In PhotoFu, You must think first before you move and thinking hurts me alot.

The method I learned and played with was using program mode to help me setup my Manual Shots. I have not yet mastered the art of aperture and shutter time adjustment. Using P-Program Mode I basically let the camera calculate for me suggested aperture and shutter time settings as point of reference helping me figure things twice as fast.

Having the suggested setting I would switch back to Manual mode and quickly fine tune the shot even more for the situation and environment at hand. Program mode is great for getting the right exposure. The other cool thing about Program mode is, it’s much better than Auto mode for getting quick shots.

I think I got some decent shots out of Program mode, but that's just me.

Draught Board 15: Stone Brewery Visits the Club

2009-06-28T23:14:00.004-04:00

Sunday June 28th 2009 was the monthly meeting for the Drought board 15 at the Gaslight. The Meeting was billed as Dennis Flynn’s, representative of the famed Stone Brewery, only beer club presentation in NJ this year. Stone Brewing is known for the aggressive Arrogant Bastard Ale and they usually get decent ratings from beer enthusiast websites, RateBeer.com and BeerAdvocate.com. This meeting, though, Stone Brewery was a real let down. If I were new to Stone Brewery’s beer, I would have not been sold at all. As one of the people at the table said (@RICHDIGI on twitter) “My experience.... Not as good as Brooklyn’s(Brooklyn’s Brewery’s Visit to the DB15)... I'm not afraid. Presentation is 80% of the sale. Nuff said”

Stone Brewers beer tasting was a disappointment. First of all Mr. Flynn was an hour late. In this day of GPS’s that should not happen. We were basically given a piss poor presentation on Stone Brewery. Four of the beers, Arrogant Bastard Ale, Stone Smoked Porter, Stone Imperial Russian Stout, and 13^th Anniversary Ale, were to be had in the worse way possible, plastic Dixie cups, horrible! As another person at my table put it (@SimplyBeer on twitter) “WTF, were tasting out of Dixie cup. Levitation ale tasted like plastic. http://twitpic.com/8p2kd”

Stone Brewery left a lot of dissatisfied, disenchanted people behind. Mr. Flynn did not bring enough beer. Not one person had a full glass worth of beer at a beer meeting. One ounce is not a proper amount to suitably sample a beer for a suitable understanding.

At the end of the meeting I went down to the Bar at the Gaslight and had Sierra Nevada Torpedo Ale, that was a good beer.

End of my ride pant pant weeez

2009-06-27T20:14:00.000-04:00

No, I did not fall out by myself in the woods dead tired, I am winded though. Funny, I can go forever on an elliptical, while 'tehBrass' kicked my ass. Much work to do...
G.Knox .
From Mobile Device Everywhere and Nowhere all at once

Breaking in 'tehbrass'

2009-06-27T19:14:00.000-04:00

Breaking in my new bike, god am I fat!!! Anyhooo pant pant weez this is fun, quite trail, no 1 to laugh at me, hopefully this will help my war on my fat
G.Knox .
From Mobile Device Everywhere and Nowhere all at once

Comics shipping 06/24/09, a Brutal expensive experience

2009-06-25T08:48:00.007-04:00

It seems as if the end of the fiscal quarter is upon us. To get their numbers up, the comic companies, especially Marvel Comics with about 39 titles being shipped, decided to break peoples wallets in half. Is this good for Comics?

Today, Marvel ship 39 regular comic book titles to comic stores in the US and Canada, the UK getting their copies tomorrow. Plus another 14 variant covers and a bunch of trades. This is an unprecedented amount of comics from one publisher to hit in one week, an amount not seen sine the extremes of the mid nineties. www.bleedingcool.com

Honestly this is just me being all doom & Gloomy. We here fell prey to the mighty comics dump this week. Anyhoo good reading everybody..

The books i am looking forward to this week the most are Green Lantern #42 even with Hal Jordan off characterization it's been good . Gotham City Sirens #1 looks like it might be a lot of fun. Star War Legacy, it's the Best Star Wars Story going at the moment, Nuff' said. All Hail Megatron #12 was suppose to be the end of series but it got extended, should still be a great read. Detective Comics #854, if this book is good, i will keep reading it, if not i save 3.99 a moth.
Here is our complete list.

Astonishing X-Men #30

Avengers Initiative #25

Avengers Invaders #12 (OF 12)

Dark Avengers #6

Dark Avengers Uncanny X-Men Utopia #1

Detective Comics #854

Farscape Dargos Lament #3 (OF 4)

Gotham City Sirens #1

Green Lantern #42

Grimm Fairy Tales Cvr B David Nakayama #39

Justice League Of America #34

Justice Society Of America #28

Last Days Of Animal Man #2 (OF 6)

New Avengers #54

Nova #26

Secret Warriors #5

Star Wars Legacy #37

Superman #689

Timestorm 2009 2099 X-Men

Transformers All Hail Megatron #12

Uncanny X-Men #512

Wolverine Weapon X #3

X-Factor #45

X-Force #16

NJ Beer Goes Here: 13th Annual Garden State Craft Brewers Guild Beer Festival

2009-06-24T21:36:00.012-04:00

Beer Motivated Movement Ruled this day on the USS Battleship in Camden NJ. The Weather was “craptacular” but that did not stop me, @Izatherez , @lemasney and many others from having a good damn time for five hours. We were on the Deck under a tent where it was not so dry but we got to sample great offerings from 16 of the New Jerseys Great Brewers. I even learned a few things.

I try to learn something from every beer event I do. This year was less about the ‘tasting’ the beer and more about socializing and admiring the beer. There is equity in socializing in the beer world. Learning who people are (especially the brewers) while being extremely polite but not kissing ass, can go a long way in any local beer scene. What is especially cool about beer festivals like the Annual Garden State Craft Brewers Guild Beer Festival is meeting new people and making new real life face to face connections. At this show I met John LeMasney of http://beercritic.wordpress.com/ , a person I met on twitter(@lemasney) and a pleasant beer appreciator. It was fun to sample beer with a person from a different point of view.

This year our venue, the Battle ship NJ, was a wet mess. The staff did their best but the floor stayed wet and the people kept coming. The rain kept the crowds down compared to last year though. The Food, which supports the Battleship NJ, was much improved. The prices were adjusted nicely which was easy on the wallet. All the Brewers handled everything quite well. They were all polite and talkative. NJ Brewers are a great group of people .

This year’s beer selection was very good including some old and some new selections. I’m not going to pick a favorite beer of the event but I will give some highlights. It was nice to have the ‘Maxwell’s Stout' from Basil T’s which is one of my Favorite coffee stouts. It has very good flavor. They also had a very good Ale called ‘Rosie’s Pale Ale’. The ‘PayMasters Porter’ from Cricket hill was very nice. Flying Fish Brewing has a nice ‘Farmhouse Summer ale’ which is a pleasant seasonal. Gaslight Brewery, my local Spot, had their consistent ‘Black Bear Lager’. Harvest Moons ‘Vanilla Stout’ was brilliant. The Vanilla beans in the cask was fantastic. Iron Hill, a new comer, had what they called ‘Pig Iron Porter’. This was done very well. Pizzeria Uno’s ‘Gust N Gale Porter was also very tasty. I wish I could have enjoyed that warmer. There was flavor hiding in that one I swear. Uno’s ‘Station House Red Ale’ was very nice to have also. The Ship Inn’s Best Bitter was a Great example of a British bitter, served and a decent temperature and hand pumped. Triumph Brewing brought back their Coffee & Cream Stout, it’s and Inspiration for my future home brewing. I look forward to this beer because I never seem to be able to make to their restaurant.

I got to go to a few beer events with drastically contrasting venues. They have been held at a baseball stadium, in the mountains, on a boat, a restaurant and in a warehouse on a river next to an old retired aircraft carrier. This is one of my favorites. Not the best but it ranks high. I had a great time despite the weather.

Microsoft Security Essentials (Morro)

2009-06-22T11:47:00.002-04:00

public beta begins tomorrow http://tinyurl.com/lsphs3

Morro is only meant to be basic protection for a PC and not a fully-featured Internet security package. Microsoft attempted that with Windows Live OneCare, but issues with performance and problems for users attempting upgrades lead to Microsoft deciding to end support.

This is sort of scary, i wonder if this will conflict with security solutions Microsoft does not like or will this be reporting your PC's status to Microsoft. Windows Defender worked well, i am not sure about Morro though

#NJTweetUp 13th Annual Garden State #Craftbeer Fest, Battleship NJ, Camden

2009-06-19T14:27:00.002-04:00

Visit www.battleshipnewjersey.org for additional information.

When: June 20th, 2009
Hours: (doors open @ 12) 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Admission: $40.00 (Must be over 21 years old)
Location: Delaware River Waterfront, Camden, NJ
Phone Number: 856-966-1652 x 107 (for tickets)
Website: www.battleshipnewjersey.org

2 Beer Tours

2009-06-15T15:23:00.005-04:00

Being a long time beer drinker and fan I thought it fun to start doing tours of breweries. A friend of mine who goes by the name of GServo, started me with a tour back in January of Flying Dog brewery in Fredrick, MD. I followed that tour up with a trip to Boston and a Sam Adams tour about a month and a half later. I was so shocked at the difference of the tours that I spoke about the comparison for months afterward with any and all who would listen. It was suggested that I blog about it as well.

I will begin by saying that I am not necessarily comparing apples to apples here. The tour at Flying Dog was a private tour during business hours. The Sam Adams tour was a walk up public tour. That being said let me give you my account of Flying Dog.

Our tour at Flying Dog was a private tour setup for GServo. We were met by the Baroness, that is actually on her business card, who is in charge of marketing down there in Maryland. She is a great person, very up front and there was never a question if she was being genuine. We proceeded to walk through the brewery as she pointed out the different areas and what they were specific to in the process. We asked all kinds of questions along the way. Again, this was during a regular working day so we had plenty of opportunities to ask questions of the people working and watch them doing their jobs. The end of the tour also brought us to the end of the work day. Like most tours it ended with a tasting of some of their selection. What made this different was that we got to mingle with the now off duty staff during this tasting. It gave an insight to the people behind the product. The personalities, faces and overall politeness of the staff really left an impression that stays with me to this very day when I drink a Flying Dog beer.

My tour through Sam Adams was an impromptu let's do something this coming weekend type thing. We traveled to the brewery and got scheduled for a tour. This was a weekend tour with all kinds of tourists and groups running through a cattle run of sorts. We did have a question and answer period at every stop in the tour and it ended with a tasting. The tasting was informative but crammed. The host was a very polite gentleman who was very knowledgeable about his craft. The group was too big and hindered any chance of a personal vibe. The host did run through the basics of how to taste a beer and what traits to look for when viewing a beer. I was surprised that the Boston brewery is primarily a R&D facility. That gave an insight to R&D process but didn't show the actual facilities that brew the beer. I understand why and how this came to be but I just wasn't expecting it, I guess.

All in all, I have to say that I was extremely impressed with the Flying Dog tour and the people that staff the brewery. Public tours or "cattle runs" are necessary for these facilities so that they are not constantly interrupting their processes to answer questions from onlookers. I understand that and I make no bones about the unique experience I shared in Maryland. What I shared in the brewery in Maryland was above and beyond my wildest expectations of what a tour should be. It also set the bar extremely high for all future tours. My tour of Sam Adams solidified my opinion of the experience. As I stated earlier, I now relate the beer to an outstanding personal experience, one that I am quick to pass along to everyone who is interested in listening. I joined their facebook. I follow their twitter accounts. I drink their beer and take their beer to every family and friend gathering.

My hat’s off to you Flying Dog and to you Stephanie (Baroness). You have a fan for life. I also wish to thank GServo and BeerUtopia for the opportunity of the visit.

1:1 Gundam *faint

2009-06-15T14:56:00.002-04:00

Tokyo Gundam comes to life.
I know i wont get to Japan to see this but it makes me smile ear to ear to see this.

The full article that includes this photo lives at www.dannychoo.com/adp/eng/1717/

A GeekTasting: Guinness’s 250th Anniversary Stout @ CloverLeaf

2009-06-12T23:35:00.003-04:00

The Guinness’s 250th Anniversary Stout was released in the US, Australia and Singapore on 24 April 2009. I got my first good bit of information on Guinness 250th Anniversary Stout from the NPR show All Things Considered, April 25, 2009 (Listen Now) Therein, Jacki Lyden discussed the New Recipe, while it was also mentioned that this beer was not available in Ireland. It is postulated that you don’t F’ with Guinness in Ireland. After hearing all the fascinating things about the stout and reading the articles that popped up on various web sites like DraftMag I knew I had to give it a try.

It took me a while to actually find it, but I finally found it at the CloverLeaf Tavern in Caldwell on their Guiness night. What did I think of the Guinness 250? Well to me it was in the vein of they came to the US and tried a Craft Brewery stout, studied a little about American Craft beer and tried to make a Guinness Version. The 250 is defiantly a little maltier, a little smoother , but the mouth feel was lacking. Served Too cold this beer was Crisp and actually a little refreshing but lacked flavor. More of the Its Classic Guinness flavor came as its temperature increased. The After taste was smooth though and had a Decent Drinkability. I am glad to say I finally had the 250. It’s the not the most epic beer in the world but it’s respectable. A good try on Guinness’s part.

As for the Cloverleaf, that was a Nice place to have a drink. Very Old school in ways, but it had a nice layout. The Staff was kind and Friendly. Like a poozer. I went there alone, but was treated kindly. They have 25 BEERS ON DRAFT with a large list of various other bottled beers Check them out here http://cloverleaftavern.com/beer.shtml . It’s a little to far for me to frequent, but it’s a place ill defiantly go back to, and by the way, they have REALLY good steak fries

Draught Board15 Beer Club Meeting -new date June 28, Sunday, 3 PM

2009-06-11T15:02:00.001-04:00

Draught Board15
NJ 's Largest Beer Appreciation Organization

**************

Next Meeting: June 28, Sunday, 3 PM at the Gaslight

(please note this is a change from our usual schedule)

Special Guest Speaker- Dennis Flynn

from the STONE BREWERY!!

------------------------

This will be the only East Coast presentation by Dennis Flynn and only the DB15 has it!!

Don't miss this one time only chance to learn about the renown Stone Brewery and sample some surprise brews!

---------------------------------------

For the latest in beer news and club events go to www.beernexus.com

Getting back into FPS with Crossfire

2009-06-09T14:42:00.003-04:00

The First Person Shooter, simply referred to as FPS by gamers, has been around for decades. I remember my first introduction when the DOS based Wolfenstein came out. I played through Rise of the Triad, Duke Nukem, Shadow Warrior, Redneck Rampage to name the early FPS titles. Then came the realistic war based games like Medal of Honor and Call of Duty. There were science fiction based games like Half Life (with all of it's mods) and Unreal Tournament. I played them all. I even volunteered quite a few years to helping administer online gaming at a competitive league (story for another time). I decided I had enough when gaming became more about gaming league politics than it was about the pure enjoyment.

Now after a couple of years without FPS games a friend of mine who goes by the call name of Tripped, introduced me to a free FPS game called Crossfire. I was a bit skeptical and procrastinated in downloading this game due to past free FPS experiences. Now that I've downloaded, installed and played the game I am glad I did. It has the elements found in some current games such as ranks, weapon purchases and repair. It also kept the multiplayer feel and movement in a "classic" setting. It's very easy for a novice to come in and get comfortable with the movements and actions. The maps aren't huge. You have plenty of areas for snipers and gunners alike. It doesn't take forever to cross a map. The game types are not limited to the standard team deathmatch and "objective" styles.

SubaGames did a wonderful job with this title. It helped bring an old dog back to the war zone. That being said it isn't perfect and there are some tweaks here and there that can get looked at and fixed either with a patch or mod. There are always calls for more maps at some point down the line as well. For the novice or long time gamer, I recommend giving Crossfire a try. You'll be glad you did!

http://crossfire.subagames.com/index.aspx

inebriated evolution

2009-06-08T15:10:00.003-04:00

The South Orange & Maplewood Artists Studio Tour

2009-06-08T14:20:00.001-04:00

I took time on Sunday to look at some art . The South Orange & Maplewood Artists Studio Tour, presented by The Pierro Gallery of South Orange and 1978 Maplewood Arts Center , featured over 50 artists local to the area. There were too many artist to get through in one day, so we had to pick and choose who we wanted to see. The few I did get to see were pretty nice. I did not take too many pictures of them or their art as to respect their intellectual properties. The Artist I did get to visit were, Thea Clark, Mark Chiarello, Amie Goad, Rick Parker,all the art at ‘ ‘Express Yourself’ and The Baird Center. All showing fine examples of photography, water color, 3d Computer art and Clay Pottery. The Artist were all friendly and took the time to chat.

The South Orange and Maplewood Artist Studio Tour was a well thought-out occasion with a lot of welcoming people out enjoying the weather and admiring the art. It was a Good family day basically, an Annual thing that I hope to go to again. To learn more about the event, please visit http://www.studiotoursoma.org/

My Current Beer Review template:

2009-06-07T12:03:00.003-04:00

Tasted By :

Location tested:

Available at: for $:

Beer and brewer:

Style/Type: (Ales: Barley Wine,Bitter,Brown Ale,India Pale Ale,Pale Ale,Porter,Stout,Wheat Beer/ Lagers:Bock,Dunkel,Oktoberfest/Maerzen,Pilsner)ABV:

Package & amount oz (Growler/bottle/can/draft/other):

Glass used:

Appearance (head, color, clarity):

Aroma/smell:

Taste/Flavor (Sweetness, acidity, bitterness etc:

Body/Texture:

After taste (quick or Long?, Smooth or Harsh?, Hoppy, Malty Roasty?):

Overall Impression :

Company Website/More information on beer:

2009-06-06T10:07:00.004-04:00

Next Meeting June 14

The DB15's next regular meeting is scheduled for
June 14,Sunday, 3 PM, at the Gaslight. Rumor has it that
there just might be a screening of a beer movie that was in
theaters only weeks ago. Nothing is confirmed so we can't
divulge the movie's title but we can guarantee that the meeting
will feature some truly great beers for tasting no matter what.
Be sure to monitor this page for the soon to be
announced details.

--------------------------

The DB15 welcomes Cask Commissioner Dan Hodge back from
a whirlwind trip to Belgium. Dan's trip was in preparation for his
new book on the great beers of the world. Get an early look at
some of Dan's impressions of Belgium exclusively on BeerNexus

Click here to read

No Waffling on Belgian Beer.

Picturealude

2009-06-04T14:18:00.001-04:00

Thoughts on Waiting for trade…

2009-06-04T11:22:00.001-04:00

This is and Idea I played with in the back of my head for a long time. In the medium of comic books, trade paperbacks are used to reprint several issues of a comic series in one volume, more often than not an important storyline or the complete series itself, and the name "trade paperback" has become synonymous with a compilation of reprinted material.

The “Waiting for a Trade Paperback” thought is due to the rising cost of my monthly comics books. It’s summer, there are miniseries coming out, event books are starting, and like a child, about to mislay something sacred, my wallet trembles. With comic books starting to hit $3.99 per issue of a regular 32 page comic, more often now, and Comics not having an E Reader, It’s time for me to really rethink everything to not go broke.

I was talking with Izatherez (and I expect a comment from him) about the reliability of the trade market and we agreed that things are coming out at a good enough pace for us to be patient. It is just a matter of picking and choosing what to be patient with. The Trade paperback titles that are easiest to make a decision on are the one from a smaller companies that are more standalone finite stories , like Farscape and Eureka From Boom! and Ghostbusters and maybe Transformers from IDW. Many of stories that come out in this similar vein read better in trade format anyway.

Another cool thing about trades is I find it easier to shop around and get better pricing. Some sites have them cheaper on preorder. And they look better on a bookshelf also. This will make for an interesting adjustment in my comic book reading habits.

Garden State Craft Brewers Guild News for June 2009

2009-06-02T18:04:00.003-04:00

In this issue: http://njbeer.org/
• The Garden State Craft Brewers Guild 13th Annual Beer Festival on Saturday, June 20th
• Flying Fish on All Things Considered
• High Point Brewing Gets Their Ramones On
• Krogh's Adds Summer Beer Lineup
• Cricket Hill Releases Jersey Summer Breakfast Ale

The Garden State Craft Brewers Guild website is continuously updated with new events. Check out the calendar to see what's brewing in New Jersey this month.

Eclec-ti-cal-ly Geeking

This American Life: On HealthCare

An Evening of Hot Chili and Cool Brew Thursday, October 15, 6 pm @ The Newark Museum

Matt and "The Monster"- Rock Art Brewery vs. Monster Energy Drink

as and FYI #Beer&Wine Tasting @ Mompou Tapas lounge 10-15-09 (not going, better even @ Newark Museum)

Morning bike Ride Called on My own stupidity

How Can I Support My Craft Brew?

Gigantor - Kobe

miho's dad's photostream on Flickr

Starbucks VIA Italian Roast = Meh

An Evening of Hot Chili and Cool Brew Thursday, October 15, 6 pm @ The Newark Museum

NJ Beer Goes here: New Jersey Beer Company.

Commuter Comics… Magog #1 (DC Comics) Spoiler free

[Updated] My #Photog Wish list (looking for suggestions…)

You can tell a man who boozes by the company he chooses and the pig got up and walked away

Here are the comics we pulled For Comics shipping 08/26/09

PhotoFu; GServo's Thoughts on the Sigma DP2

Thinking about Droping Some X-Books

Torn Between Two Styles of Camera, DSLR/Micro 4/3 and the Sigma DP2 a quick rant

Here are the comics we pulled For Comics shipping 08/12/09

Relativity-10j1

I am GServo and this is Eclec-ti-cal-ly Geeking

I have to get one of these with my company logo's

It's Comics book day again

Panasonic Lumix GH1 Quick Tour (Camera pron)

For my next Trick I will turn this water into caffeinated joy

GonzoFest

Good weekend all, some NJ biking links of intrest

The Fun

My Top 3 issues for Comics for the Week of Jul 29, 2009

Middleman Comic Con 09 - Table Read

Wish I brought my real camera on this mornings bike ride

Tron Legacy Trailer

Beer and Biking

Weekend Picture Highlights

Mobile Suit Gundam

SIGMA DP2 ISO 200 SAMPLES NIGHT

Too early?

My Top 3 Book Books for Comics for the Week of Jul 8, 2009

A great ride 4.25 miles

Riding with Izathrez he finds interesting things

Around 7 Days Since I got my bike

Comic Thoughts:Of Craft Beer and the Justice League of America

Coffee Drinks Illustrated

Top 7 Comics I am anticipating for books shipping the Week of Jul 1, 2009

empire shift

PhotoFu- P is for Program Mode

Draught Board 15: Stone Brewery Visits the Club

End of my ride pant pant weeez

Breaking in 'tehbrass'

Comics shipping 06/24/09, a Brutal expensive experience

NJ Beer Goes Here: 13th Annual Garden State Craft Brewers Guild Beer Festival

Microsoft Security Essentials (Morro)

#NJTweetUp 13th Annual Garden State #Craftbeer Fest, Battleship NJ, Camden

Visit www.battleshipnewjersey.org for additional information.When: June 20th, 2009Hours: (doors open @ 12) 1:00 - 5:00 PMAdmission: $40.00 (Must be over 21 years old)Location: Delaware River Waterfront, Camden, NJPhone Number: 856-966-1652 x 107 (for tickets)Website: www.battleshipnewjersey.org

2 Beer Tours

1:1 Gundam *faint

A GeekTasting: Guinness’s 250th Anniversary Stout @ CloverLeaf

Draught Board15 Beer Club Meeting -new date June 28, Sunday, 3 PM

Getting back into FPS with Crossfire

inebriated evolution

The South Orange & Maplewood Artists Studio Tour

My Current Beer Review template:

Picturealude

Thoughts on Waiting for trade…

Garden State Craft Brewers Guild News for June 2009