I have a burning passion not to do physics homework. It will take a few more hours (hopefully less) to remind myself how bad it felt to not to have turned in the last one.
I just had pancakes that were reheated from last night's dinner at IHOP. They had cinnamon and icing.
I painted some of my plastic interior trim in my car. When the lights to match are purchased, it should look really sharp at night and during the day. Pics when it happens.
This Thursday I will go to the Queen Mary with a party of people that build a haunted house. This guy, the one that said "hey let's go" is the same guy that builds a maze in his own side yard/driveway every year. I've participated in the build for the past two years. So him and a few others are going, and I as a helper, was invited. It's good to help. Yay people.
Every Friday night, I'm told, is a get-together of Miata's in the City of Industry (45-an hour's drive). One of these days, I'll make the trip out there, hoping for the best.
Instagram has been seeing more of me lately, or the other way around; whatever. My username, like most everywhere else on the internet, is Chilezen. Reddit, however, is no contest: I even spoil myself with a few browsing sessions during physics (geez I loathe physics and that teacher). So many subreddits, and somehow, so much time... But anyway pictures, me, things, insta-whatever.
About a week ago I took my bike to the beach to ride. Only two items entered my pocket: license and phone. Apparently, as I found out today, a week later, my license did not come back that night. This means I have been without legal proof of identification, let alone proof to drive, for some time. Luckily, as hard as they may come by, some nice people mailed my ID back. Bless their souls, I shall return a letter of thanks at my soonest convenience.
This weekend my courage was built up all on my own in order to ask for a date from a girl I just met. This was in the city of Brea, where my mom had another one of her street fairs, selling her jewelry. Being a weekend event, I had seen (and only seen) this girl for two days. She sat stationed at another booth, across and not far from where I sat. Looking up from the book not wanting to be read was pleasant every time as I glance to see her chatting away with the girl next to her or customers at her booth. She was attractive; pretty eyes, pretty smile, fit body. My standards are set fairly high for women I am interested in, yet consequently I have a harder time talking the prettier they are. A breakthrough, a much needed one, came when I broke the ice as I strolled by (I had been sitting for hours, man...) to observe the two of them packing up. This was the first of two approaches. I addressed them both, this made talking easier. This was also fishing for initial impressions, yet I already made up my mind about pursuing it further. I had waited at my seat until all was packed, so literally at the last moment, I boldly (yet cautiously, I am/was still shy) said "Before you go, my name is Kevan, you have pretty eyes, and I'd like to ask you out." Her smile grew for the appreciation and her eyes fluttered but the words from her mouth are the only words I will ever remember her say: "Oh, I'm sorry, I have a boyfriend! But my name's Jordan, I'm sorry." I didn't know what to say, in fact I don't remember what I said. Frankly I'm not hugely bummed out, because I reminded myself I could do it, even if it took two whole days. For too long have I been kicking myself over lost opportunities and lust for ones I know I will never get back... I tried again, I'm proud of that. Losing this one, yes I'm bummed, she, from what I could tell, looked like a great, nice person; exactly the kind I've always been after. She helped me bounce back up because I really thought she'd be worth the try, and she was. This wouldn't be a story without her, and I wouldn't have the confidence without Helin, a friend who also helped (and still helps) through difficult patches of my life. Several morals now standing, I appreciate having experienced them all.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Reunited and Refreshed
To say "reunited" is a stretch, considering she's been sitting in the
driveway for three weeks. But I couldn't drive my Miata because she was
having starting issues, and I have school, so I didn't have time to fix
it. Over the past weekend she got a temporary fix, will be completed
soon.
What I wanted to say is how much I missed driving her. In the meantime, I'd been driving a bmw E30 to school, which has its own perks, but simply isn't as good or fun as my miata.
In Southern California, where I live, there is a coastal city called Palos Verdes (Estates, not Rancho). It's almost entirely neighborhoods of small, windy, hilly dark roads (dark being at night). The houses are beautiful, the views are beautiful, and the roads are mostly empty. It's the closest thing I have to a track and a good time, especially on warm nights, like tonight.
After readjusting myself to the light pedals, I fell in love all over again. How well she handles, the responsive steering, how it's never too much power, the sticky tires... and almost everything is still stock; very forgiving shocks and an acceptably quiet exhaust. Many of the roads are uninterrupted, making for many wonderful mountain cruises. The city itself is about 5 miles in diameter (my estimate from google maps), yet I traveled 54 miles through it. I love exploring there, and I love exploring it in my miata.
I'm just happy, and wanted to briefly share my experience.
What I wanted to say is how much I missed driving her. In the meantime, I'd been driving a bmw E30 to school, which has its own perks, but simply isn't as good or fun as my miata.
In Southern California, where I live, there is a coastal city called Palos Verdes (Estates, not Rancho). It's almost entirely neighborhoods of small, windy, hilly dark roads (dark being at night). The houses are beautiful, the views are beautiful, and the roads are mostly empty. It's the closest thing I have to a track and a good time, especially on warm nights, like tonight.
After readjusting myself to the light pedals, I fell in love all over again. How well she handles, the responsive steering, how it's never too much power, the sticky tires... and almost everything is still stock; very forgiving shocks and an acceptably quiet exhaust. Many of the roads are uninterrupted, making for many wonderful mountain cruises. The city itself is about 5 miles in diameter (my estimate from google maps), yet I traveled 54 miles through it. I love exploring there, and I love exploring it in my miata.
I'm just happy, and wanted to briefly share my experience.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Dumfounded
Society, the government, and whomever else, don't understand this simple, dead simple logic I have: if children are raised properly, there would be less criminals.
Holy fucking shit, people. Get this through your mind.
Pour money into where it's needed: education. Children who attended safe, respectable schools and obtain realistic aspirations are much less likely to be a danger to society. Children who are able to go home and impress their parents will be jewels in their parents eyes. Establishing safe schools will create better neighborhoods. If they are properly educated and motivated, they will become better citizens in society. We will have a better society if it is propagated with intelligent human beings. How? By fucking raising them properly. If we can't depend on all parents, we should at least be able to depend on schools.
Saturday, September 21, 2013
SOL
Two lines of bad news:
I haven't thought about her in weeks, thankfully. But my brain, for the asshole it is, decides to remind me of her while I sleep. It's not even a simple passing-by on the sidewalk sort-of deal, it's a togetherness situation, exactly the kind of feeling I don't want to re-experience anymore. That time has passed, and I really thought I convinced myself that I was over this a long time ago.
I'm going to a concert tonight. My first venture exclusive to watching a band perform. Saying I haven't been to a concert before is mostly a lie; I've been to venues and a concert has been there as well. However tonight my family, the three of us, are traveling about an hour away to see the band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. I really like their music, so I'm not complaining. I'm just not the "concert" type of person, just as I am not really a "go outside in public" type of person. But I also think my mom is really trying to hold on to me for as long as she can; there hasn't been a weekend for the past two months that we haven't been together doing something. Chocking, really. Nothing I can or will do about it though.
My arms and hands are stained with car grime/oil/degreaser from when I was working on it earlier today. That makes me happy, I did something I like doing and I have physical attributes to show for it. But now I need a shower in order to blend in with the crowd that will soon surround me.
- I had to take my car to a mechanic
- I had another dream about my ex.
I haven't thought about her in weeks, thankfully. But my brain, for the asshole it is, decides to remind me of her while I sleep. It's not even a simple passing-by on the sidewalk sort-of deal, it's a togetherness situation, exactly the kind of feeling I don't want to re-experience anymore. That time has passed, and I really thought I convinced myself that I was over this a long time ago.
I'm going to a concert tonight. My first venture exclusive to watching a band perform. Saying I haven't been to a concert before is mostly a lie; I've been to venues and a concert has been there as well. However tonight my family, the three of us, are traveling about an hour away to see the band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. I really like their music, so I'm not complaining. I'm just not the "concert" type of person, just as I am not really a "go outside in public" type of person. But I also think my mom is really trying to hold on to me for as long as she can; there hasn't been a weekend for the past two months that we haven't been together doing something. Chocking, really. Nothing I can or will do about it though.
My arms and hands are stained with car grime/oil/degreaser from when I was working on it earlier today. That makes me happy, I did something I like doing and I have physical attributes to show for it. But now I need a shower in order to blend in with the crowd that will soon surround me.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
In Between Classes
Actually the teacher is late to the one I'm supposed to be in right now.
My car needs a new starter, at least that's what the clues point to. The battery had been checked, cleaned, and fully charged too. The next step is to check the starter itself; I find this easier to perform if it's taken out. If all is well, then the wiring between the battery and starter needs to be checked. Save the hardest for last.
In the meantime I'm driving the bimmer (not "beemer," that's the motorcycle). No complaints, I love driving that car too. I gave it an oil change last weekend. The only thing the car really needs, among all the tune-ups it could use, is to stiffen the steering. There's a lot of play; I don't yet know how to clean it up, but at some point I'll learn what can be done. It'll be a perfect car after that.
The teacher has arrived, whereas I will make my exit.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Coming Home
My English essay. Subject: song analysis.
A most exceptional feeling a man or woman may experience is the nostalgia of returning home. Not commonly felt by the everyday person, a veteran appreciates this feeling more and more as more time passes by when away from the nest. The reward? Seeing loved ones! In the song “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree,” originally performed by Dawn (featuring Tony Orlando) in 1973, a man describes his anticipation after three long years away. This reflects the passion he has for his loved one, the commitment he has stood by, and his selflessness to let her choose their fate together.
Many songs tribute loved ones, although this stands out in the way he expresses his trust. Communication and trust are arguably the most important aspects of a relationship. When these strenuous characteristics are well established, love comes naturally (whereas being in love takes even more work). That said, the narrator of this musical adventure seeks comfort when he arrives home, and he hopes for this based on his trust that she still loves him. But like a man, a manly man, he and his heart are prepared for the worst: “If I don’t see a ribbon ‘round the ole oak tree; I’ll stay on the bus; forget about us; put the blame on me.” Based on personal experience, letting a loved one go is a true reflection of love, demonstrating that his love for her is greater than his selfish desire to hold on to something which may no longer be there. That is passion.
Many fans became passionate (more or less) for the tune after its release, including many talented musicians who covered the song, including Frank Sinatra. What also increased with the song’s fame was its interpretation; originally, the song describes a prisoner returning home: “I’ve done my time […] If you received my letter telling you I’d soon be free […] It’s been three long years […] I’m really still in prison, and my love, she holds the key.” When I was growing up and first heard this song, my mother told me it was attributed to the soldiers coming home from the war. Which war, she didn’t say, but given the year of publication, it could have ranged from any number of the wars in the Middle East to Vietnam. Details aside, the song’s popularity rose due to its nature of welcoming back loved ones. Regardless of the narrator’s whereabouts, it is easy to identify he had kept in contact, proving his commitment to someone who had the choice of letting go of him. Every man knows (or should know) that at any time, his girl may question the relationship, which may then lead to devastating downfall of arguments and tragedies; worsened if the relationship is long distance and with little communication. But we know that he has instilled his trust in her, so we feel his confidence and commitment for her.
As a sign for her commitment for him, he asks for a yellow ribbon to be tied around a tree (hence the name of the song). Sources do not point to a distinctive origin for ribbons being worn or tied somewhere, but the notable points of reference include a song titled “Round Her Neck She Wore A Yellow Ribbon" by Sidney Robertson Cowell in 1938, a movie by the same title starring John Wayne in 1949, and has even been traced back through folk tales to the Civil War. Gerald E. Parsons argues the strongest piece of evidence includes Star Wormwood, a book on prison reform written in 1959. The passage of interest is, “‘There it is,’ he cried. ‘It's all right! The whole tree is white with ribbons’” (Parsons). Where ever the origin, popularity of the concept grew orally. The “yellow” aspect came from a yellow handkerchief told in another convict-returning-home story, which happened to be hung on an oak tree. Progressing into 1973, we find “Irwin Levine and L. Russell Brown register[ing] for copyright a song they called ‘Tie a Yellow Ribbon ’Round the Ole Oak Tree’” (Parsons). The symbolism for the yellow ribbon grew enormously after the invasion of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in 1979, when in an article by the Washington Post, we see the ribbon tied around a tree being used for their collective condolences of the hostages. For as many readers as there were, the ribbon can be confidently described as a national symbol.
Admittedly, the Iranian invasion does proceed the original airdate of the song, but the relevance and historical value of the information is comforting to know. What is more comforting is the resolution of the song: “And I can't believe I see; A hundred yellow ribbons 'round the ole oak tree.” When he put his trust in her to make the right decision for the both of them, his reward is beyond his imagination. His intention comes purely from the heart. A song simply about how excited a man would be to see his girl does not compare; this man acts on the principle of putting his girl’s happiness first. If she is happier without him, if she moved on, then the best is what she deserves. Instead, true love in this fictional story prevails: a hundred yellow ribbons were tied around the ole oak tree.
The bounciness of the song lends to the predictable resolution. The first bridge indicates there is speculation, as he repeats, “If you still want me; if you still want me,” which gives the song itself more character. We become as suspicious as he is. This, in true poetic fashion, is oxymoronic of the bounciness of the tune.
This has been cited as a memorable song by many elderly people. It is easy to understand why: it was a popular tune and it represented the joyous resolutions and reunited loved one during its time. It reflects a man’s love; not only his, but the dear sentiment about his girl. As there simply are not songs like this in today’s culture, spreading the knowledge and character of this one is ever more valuable.
A most exceptional feeling a man or woman may experience is the nostalgia of returning home. Not commonly felt by the everyday person, a veteran appreciates this feeling more and more as more time passes by when away from the nest. The reward? Seeing loved ones! In the song “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree,” originally performed by Dawn (featuring Tony Orlando) in 1973, a man describes his anticipation after three long years away. This reflects the passion he has for his loved one, the commitment he has stood by, and his selflessness to let her choose their fate together.
Many songs tribute loved ones, although this stands out in the way he expresses his trust. Communication and trust are arguably the most important aspects of a relationship. When these strenuous characteristics are well established, love comes naturally (whereas being in love takes even more work). That said, the narrator of this musical adventure seeks comfort when he arrives home, and he hopes for this based on his trust that she still loves him. But like a man, a manly man, he and his heart are prepared for the worst: “If I don’t see a ribbon ‘round the ole oak tree; I’ll stay on the bus; forget about us; put the blame on me.” Based on personal experience, letting a loved one go is a true reflection of love, demonstrating that his love for her is greater than his selfish desire to hold on to something which may no longer be there. That is passion.
Many fans became passionate (more or less) for the tune after its release, including many talented musicians who covered the song, including Frank Sinatra. What also increased with the song’s fame was its interpretation; originally, the song describes a prisoner returning home: “I’ve done my time […] If you received my letter telling you I’d soon be free […] It’s been three long years […] I’m really still in prison, and my love, she holds the key.” When I was growing up and first heard this song, my mother told me it was attributed to the soldiers coming home from the war. Which war, she didn’t say, but given the year of publication, it could have ranged from any number of the wars in the Middle East to Vietnam. Details aside, the song’s popularity rose due to its nature of welcoming back loved ones. Regardless of the narrator’s whereabouts, it is easy to identify he had kept in contact, proving his commitment to someone who had the choice of letting go of him. Every man knows (or should know) that at any time, his girl may question the relationship, which may then lead to devastating downfall of arguments and tragedies; worsened if the relationship is long distance and with little communication. But we know that he has instilled his trust in her, so we feel his confidence and commitment for her.
As a sign for her commitment for him, he asks for a yellow ribbon to be tied around a tree (hence the name of the song). Sources do not point to a distinctive origin for ribbons being worn or tied somewhere, but the notable points of reference include a song titled “Round Her Neck She Wore A Yellow Ribbon" by Sidney Robertson Cowell in 1938, a movie by the same title starring John Wayne in 1949, and has even been traced back through folk tales to the Civil War. Gerald E. Parsons argues the strongest piece of evidence includes Star Wormwood, a book on prison reform written in 1959. The passage of interest is, “‘There it is,’ he cried. ‘It's all right! The whole tree is white with ribbons’” (Parsons). Where ever the origin, popularity of the concept grew orally. The “yellow” aspect came from a yellow handkerchief told in another convict-returning-home story, which happened to be hung on an oak tree. Progressing into 1973, we find “Irwin Levine and L. Russell Brown register[ing] for copyright a song they called ‘Tie a Yellow Ribbon ’Round the Ole Oak Tree’” (Parsons). The symbolism for the yellow ribbon grew enormously after the invasion of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in 1979, when in an article by the Washington Post, we see the ribbon tied around a tree being used for their collective condolences of the hostages. For as many readers as there were, the ribbon can be confidently described as a national symbol.
Admittedly, the Iranian invasion does proceed the original airdate of the song, but the relevance and historical value of the information is comforting to know. What is more comforting is the resolution of the song: “And I can't believe I see; A hundred yellow ribbons 'round the ole oak tree.” When he put his trust in her to make the right decision for the both of them, his reward is beyond his imagination. His intention comes purely from the heart. A song simply about how excited a man would be to see his girl does not compare; this man acts on the principle of putting his girl’s happiness first. If she is happier without him, if she moved on, then the best is what she deserves. Instead, true love in this fictional story prevails: a hundred yellow ribbons were tied around the ole oak tree.
The bounciness of the song lends to the predictable resolution. The first bridge indicates there is speculation, as he repeats, “If you still want me; if you still want me,” which gives the song itself more character. We become as suspicious as he is. This, in true poetic fashion, is oxymoronic of the bounciness of the tune.
This has been cited as a memorable song by many elderly people. It is easy to understand why: it was a popular tune and it represented the joyous resolutions and reunited loved one during its time. It reflects a man’s love; not only his, but the dear sentiment about his girl. As there simply are not songs like this in today’s culture, spreading the knowledge and character of this one is ever more valuable.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
I take a cooler with me to school (and leave it in my car, obviously) so
I can eat without leaving campus or buying goods on campus. Regarding
this, I'm glad I haven't sought fast and unhealthy food for the time
I've been doing this. I usually take sandwiches, caesar salads, macaroni
salad, dinner leftovers, and sometimes milk and breakfast goodies.
Granola bars are also a part of the diet.
Hyperloop Advocacy Speech for Debate Class
I was allotted 7 minutes to give this speech; some details had to be left out. Enjoy.
If the future is a representation of our ability to succeed through change, then we must embrace a new and exciting form of mass transportation, coined the “Hyperloop.” The draft is steadily based on several known technologies and is purpose-built to be fast, efficient, and relatively low cost as compared to a high-speed railroad system. The Hyperloop is a firm step forward in our ability to innovate, whereas a railway would be our conservative regression into a nostalgic past.
Henceforth outlines what the Hyperloop is and what it does:
1. ELON MUSK’S PROPOSED PIPE DREAM
Tad Friend (sic), award-winning staff writer of The New Yorker, August 15, 2013
On Monday, [Elon] Musk [founder of PayPal, Tesla Motors and SpaceX] posted his proposal, a fifty-seven-page set of specs for a gizmo that looks like the Keystone Pipeline hoisted onto a chairlift. Dual tubes, one headed north and one south, would snake together twenty feet above Interstate 5’s median, supported by pylons a hundred feet apart. Cylindrical pods carrying twenty-eight people would whoosh through the tubes at up to seven hundred and sixty miles per hour, coasting on a cushion of air. Musk promised a trip of thirty-five minutes, at a total system cost of only six billion dollars. That would be [. . .] one-tenth the overall cost of the high-speed rail system that California has planned.
2. COMPARISON TO THE WORLD’S FASTEST TRAINS
Doug Gross, staff writer of CNN, August 13, 2013
[. . .] at almost 700 mph [that’s] faster than most commercial airliners and slightly less than the speed of sound.
By contrast, the train believed to be the world's fastest—China's Shangai Maglev Train, has been recorded at a top speed of 311 mph. But its top operating speed is 268 mph, meaning it would take just under an hour and 20 minutes to make the same trip. Bullet trains like that one operate on a frictionless magnetic-levitation system, but Musk believes such technology would be too expensive for Hyperloop.
[. . .]
In California, billions of federal dollars have been pledged for high-speed rail, and voters approved $9 billion in bonds for a bullet train between San Diego and San Francisco. But the project has been set back by myriad issues, and the train, according to Musk's calculations, would average only 164 mph.
This means the trip by rail would be at minimum two hours, plus the stops along the way; hardly a positive factor when we already have airlines that ferry passengers in about 50 minutes. I would know, I’ve made the flight several times.
California’s current rail system, Amtrak, offers two routes through the state, one being inland and the other coastal. At the time of this writing, a one-way ticket fares $59. However, the ride times average a whopping 9 to 10 hours, and the inland route includes 3 hours on a bus; not what I call comfortable. I would know, I’ve made those trips too. So you can see why an improved rail system is appealing to commuters.
3. ELON MUSK’S FORMAL PROPOSAL
Elon Musk, Chairman, Product Architect & CEO of Tesla Motors, August 12, 2013
The underlying motive for a statewide mass transit system is a good one. It would be great to have an alternative to flying or driving, but obviously only if it is actually better than flying or driving. The train in question would be both slower, more expensive to operate (if unsubsidized) and less safe [. . .] than flying, so why would anyone use it?
If we are to make a massive investment in a new transportation system, then the return should by rights be equally massive. Compared to the alternatives, it should ideally be:
Safer, faster, lower cost, more convenient, immune to weather, sustainably self-powering, resistant to earthquakes, and not disruptive to those along the route.
[. . .]
Even when the Hyperloop path deviates from the highway, it will cause minimal disruption to farmland roughly comparable to a tree or telephone pole, which farmers deal with all the time. A ground based high speed rail system by comparison needs up to a 100 ft wide swath of dedicated land to build up foundations for both directions, forcing people to travel for several miles just to get to the other side of their property. It is also noisy, with nothing to contain the sound, and needs unsightly protective fencing to prevent animals, people or vehicles from getting on to the track. Risk of derailment is also not to be taken lightly, as demonstrated by several recent fatal train accidents.
4. CLARIFYING NOTES IN THE PROPOSAL
Forbes, August 12, 2013
In theory, the Hyperloop will be safer than a plane or train. “Obviously never is a rather strong word, but it would just be extremely difficult I suppose to crash,” Musk said. “It’s not like it’s going to fall out of the sky, essentially, nor can it be derailed as a train can.”
[. . .]
“I don’t think we should do the high-speed rail thing because it’s currently slated to be roughly $70 billion but if one ratio is the cost at approval time versus the cost at completion time of most large projects I think it’s probably going to be close to $100 billion. And it seems like it’s going to be less desirable to take that than to take a plane, so that means it’s not just going to be, I mean California taxpayers are not just going to have to write off $100 billion but they’re also going to have to maintain and subsidize the ongoing operation of this train for a super long time, sort of California’s Amtrak. And that just doesn’t seem wise for a state that was facing bankruptcy not that long ago.”
When it comes to movies and entertainment, we love to see something ground-breaking, fresh, and beyond our time. But this isn’t a Hollywood prop; it’s an idea that is feasible today. Bulky trains on rails are no longer exciting and are proving to be impractical next to the sophisticated design of the Hyperloop. This is what we want for a better future; for our future.
If the future is a representation of our ability to succeed through change, then we must embrace a new and exciting form of mass transportation, coined the “Hyperloop.” The draft is steadily based on several known technologies and is purpose-built to be fast, efficient, and relatively low cost as compared to a high-speed railroad system. The Hyperloop is a firm step forward in our ability to innovate, whereas a railway would be our conservative regression into a nostalgic past.
Henceforth outlines what the Hyperloop is and what it does:
1. ELON MUSK’S PROPOSED PIPE DREAM
Tad Friend (sic), award-winning staff writer of The New Yorker, August 15, 2013
On Monday, [Elon] Musk [founder of PayPal, Tesla Motors and SpaceX] posted his proposal, a fifty-seven-page set of specs for a gizmo that looks like the Keystone Pipeline hoisted onto a chairlift. Dual tubes, one headed north and one south, would snake together twenty feet above Interstate 5’s median, supported by pylons a hundred feet apart. Cylindrical pods carrying twenty-eight people would whoosh through the tubes at up to seven hundred and sixty miles per hour, coasting on a cushion of air. Musk promised a trip of thirty-five minutes, at a total system cost of only six billion dollars. That would be [. . .] one-tenth the overall cost of the high-speed rail system that California has planned.
2. COMPARISON TO THE WORLD’S FASTEST TRAINS
Doug Gross, staff writer of CNN, August 13, 2013
[. . .] at almost 700 mph [that’s] faster than most commercial airliners and slightly less than the speed of sound.
By contrast, the train believed to be the world's fastest—China's Shangai Maglev Train, has been recorded at a top speed of 311 mph. But its top operating speed is 268 mph, meaning it would take just under an hour and 20 minutes to make the same trip. Bullet trains like that one operate on a frictionless magnetic-levitation system, but Musk believes such technology would be too expensive for Hyperloop.
[. . .]
In California, billions of federal dollars have been pledged for high-speed rail, and voters approved $9 billion in bonds for a bullet train between San Diego and San Francisco. But the project has been set back by myriad issues, and the train, according to Musk's calculations, would average only 164 mph.
This means the trip by rail would be at minimum two hours, plus the stops along the way; hardly a positive factor when we already have airlines that ferry passengers in about 50 minutes. I would know, I’ve made the flight several times.
California’s current rail system, Amtrak, offers two routes through the state, one being inland and the other coastal. At the time of this writing, a one-way ticket fares $59. However, the ride times average a whopping 9 to 10 hours, and the inland route includes 3 hours on a bus; not what I call comfortable. I would know, I’ve made those trips too. So you can see why an improved rail system is appealing to commuters.
3. ELON MUSK’S FORMAL PROPOSAL
Elon Musk, Chairman, Product Architect & CEO of Tesla Motors, August 12, 2013
The underlying motive for a statewide mass transit system is a good one. It would be great to have an alternative to flying or driving, but obviously only if it is actually better than flying or driving. The train in question would be both slower, more expensive to operate (if unsubsidized) and less safe [. . .] than flying, so why would anyone use it?
If we are to make a massive investment in a new transportation system, then the return should by rights be equally massive. Compared to the alternatives, it should ideally be:
Safer, faster, lower cost, more convenient, immune to weather, sustainably self-powering, resistant to earthquakes, and not disruptive to those along the route.
[. . .]
Even when the Hyperloop path deviates from the highway, it will cause minimal disruption to farmland roughly comparable to a tree or telephone pole, which farmers deal with all the time. A ground based high speed rail system by comparison needs up to a 100 ft wide swath of dedicated land to build up foundations for both directions, forcing people to travel for several miles just to get to the other side of their property. It is also noisy, with nothing to contain the sound, and needs unsightly protective fencing to prevent animals, people or vehicles from getting on to the track. Risk of derailment is also not to be taken lightly, as demonstrated by several recent fatal train accidents.
4. CLARIFYING NOTES IN THE PROPOSAL
Forbes, August 12, 2013
In theory, the Hyperloop will be safer than a plane or train. “Obviously never is a rather strong word, but it would just be extremely difficult I suppose to crash,” Musk said. “It’s not like it’s going to fall out of the sky, essentially, nor can it be derailed as a train can.”
[. . .]
“I don’t think we should do the high-speed rail thing because it’s currently slated to be roughly $70 billion but if one ratio is the cost at approval time versus the cost at completion time of most large projects I think it’s probably going to be close to $100 billion. And it seems like it’s going to be less desirable to take that than to take a plane, so that means it’s not just going to be, I mean California taxpayers are not just going to have to write off $100 billion but they’re also going to have to maintain and subsidize the ongoing operation of this train for a super long time, sort of California’s Amtrak. And that just doesn’t seem wise for a state that was facing bankruptcy not that long ago.”
When it comes to movies and entertainment, we love to see something ground-breaking, fresh, and beyond our time. But this isn’t a Hollywood prop; it’s an idea that is feasible today. Bulky trains on rails are no longer exciting and are proving to be impractical next to the sophisticated design of the Hyperloop. This is what we want for a better future; for our future.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Classes, as Promised
I enjoy almost all my classes, but two are going to be most enjoying to share here. Debate and English: lots of writing and opinions, things I love to express, will be incrementally pasted onto here.
As it is now my third week of school, two assignments have been given: For English, song lyrics must be analyzed. Any song, but the more influential, the better. Thus I looked to the past, as I find most songs of this era to lack the soul or message I wish to interpret. Two songs are in mind: Tie A Yellow Ribbon Around the Ole Oak Tree and It's Still Rock and Roll to Me. Place your bets for which one I decide!
Debate is asking for a simple, single-person advocacy speech; something to change the status quo. So simple, I just need to provide four quotations/sources and connect them. Background knowledge is a given. Two topics (again) are in mind: change public school's start time to later (instead of 8am, to 9am) -or- advocate the theoretical Hyperloop over the planned high-speed rail system for California. It's a tough decision, but new technology holds more interest to me. Details to come.
Because I just finished my Sign Language homework, I'll discuss it next. I like the class, the teacher, and the skills I am learning. It's a new language, for goodness sake. And I'm actually interested in retaining the information (unlike Spanish, which I failed in hs). I definitely need to practice more, though. Talking to people, and being able to read what they're saying; ugh, it's hard, but obtainable.
My Automotive class is iffy. We're taking apart transmissions (the class is Transmissions and Drivelines) but progress is slow. Despite being in groups, the teacher has a hard time managing all the guys (only guys, what a shame). Not much to say else.
The Physics teacher should be teaching high school freshmen, not college students. That's what her presentation reflects. It is the beginning physics course, but I feel she could be teaching at a higher level. However she does have enthusiasm for teaching, so can't complain there.
Lastly, Calculus, which I'm auditing. Best way to put it: I understand the math, but not the concepts. We're studying limits, the lesson is on the aspects of continuity. I can see him (the teacher) do the math, but I don't follow how he got there and does what with this and that. But I don't ask questions because I don't officially belong there. I will have to seek tutoring, but that's my last priority after homework for all the other classes.
I shouldn't even be writing this, I have
Luckily for me, going to 7am calculus is optional. But I feel accomplished when I learn new things there. I didn't intend for this post to be long, oh well.
Farewell.
As it is now my third week of school, two assignments have been given: For English, song lyrics must be analyzed. Any song, but the more influential, the better. Thus I looked to the past, as I find most songs of this era to lack the soul or message I wish to interpret. Two songs are in mind: Tie A Yellow Ribbon Around the Ole Oak Tree and It's Still Rock and Roll to Me. Place your bets for which one I decide!
Debate is asking for a simple, single-person advocacy speech; something to change the status quo. So simple, I just need to provide four quotations/sources and connect them. Background knowledge is a given. Two topics (again) are in mind: change public school's start time to later (instead of 8am, to 9am) -or- advocate the theoretical Hyperloop over the planned high-speed rail system for California. It's a tough decision, but new technology holds more interest to me. Details to come.
Because I just finished my Sign Language homework, I'll discuss it next. I like the class, the teacher, and the skills I am learning. It's a new language, for goodness sake. And I'm actually interested in retaining the information (unlike Spanish, which I failed in hs). I definitely need to practice more, though. Talking to people, and being able to read what they're saying; ugh, it's hard, but obtainable.
My Automotive class is iffy. We're taking apart transmissions (the class is Transmissions and Drivelines) but progress is slow. Despite being in groups, the teacher has a hard time managing all the guys (only guys, what a shame). Not much to say else.
The Physics teacher should be teaching high school freshmen, not college students. That's what her presentation reflects. It is the beginning physics course, but I feel she could be teaching at a higher level. However she does have enthusiasm for teaching, so can't complain there.
Lastly, Calculus, which I'm auditing. Best way to put it: I understand the math, but not the concepts. We're studying limits, the lesson is on the aspects of continuity. I can see him (the teacher) do the math, but I don't follow how he got there and does what with this and that. But I don't ask questions because I don't officially belong there. I will have to seek tutoring, but that's my last priority after homework for all the other classes.
I shouldn't even be writing this, I have
- a speech to research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (to be given Wed)
- a song to analyze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (draft due next Tues)
- an accumulating amount of physics hw . . . (due Wed)
- and a book to read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (by this Tues night).
- the portrait must be drawn
- I should look into schools to transfer to (and under what major)
- the bmw needs an oil change
- my car should be washed
- fucking exercise, I actually feel weaker and more ashamed to take off my shirt
- and help my mom with her various jewelry requests (process pictures, put them on her website, etc.)
Luckily for me, going to 7am calculus is optional. But I feel accomplished when I learn new things there. I didn't intend for this post to be long, oh well.
Farewell.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Patience
Whether this is famous or widely known, there is an... idea, method of teaching a young child patience, that has influenced me. I was told this by a favorite high school teacher:
Put a chocolate bar in front of a child. If he/she sits and waits for a full minute, give them a second bar; a reward for their patience. Or they can grab the one bar now... and miss out on having two.
The way my teacher said it was more influential.
My mom gets emails with coupons and whatever, and one of them was about car accessories. I said as much as I would love to spend $5k on small cosmetic upgrades, I'd rather continue saving $5k for a significant, and very rewarding performance upgrade for my car.
I have delved into the presentation vs. performance debate a while ago, so to recap, (I think) I stated it's about what's under the hood that matters more.
(For anyone not reading between the lines, it is a metaphor for "it's what's inside that counts")
I aim to boost the personality of my car, which will be a more rewarding accomplishment than physically drawing attention to something that isn't really there. Since my only income is dog sitting and school is heavily occupying my time, the savings are slow to accumulate. At least, however, the car is already a joy to drive, therefore the upgrade isn't a desperate feat to be achieved.
Put a chocolate bar in front of a child. If he/she sits and waits for a full minute, give them a second bar; a reward for their patience. Or they can grab the one bar now... and miss out on having two.
The way my teacher said it was more influential.
My mom gets emails with coupons and whatever, and one of them was about car accessories. I said as much as I would love to spend $5k on small cosmetic upgrades, I'd rather continue saving $5k for a significant, and very rewarding performance upgrade for my car.
I have delved into the presentation vs. performance debate a while ago, so to recap, (I think) I stated it's about what's under the hood that matters more.
(For anyone not reading between the lines, it is a metaphor for "it's what's inside that counts")
I aim to boost the personality of my car, which will be a more rewarding accomplishment than physically drawing attention to something that isn't really there. Since my only income is dog sitting and school is heavily occupying my time, the savings are slow to accumulate. At least, however, the car is already a joy to drive, therefore the upgrade isn't a desperate feat to be achieved.
The Amount of Friends after High School Can be Counted on One Hand
I didn't think the title would be true so soon after high school...
I think I've lost a friend specifically because of my ex girlfriend. She's been friends with him long than I've known her. She dated him once, for a week, but it didn't work out because he felt like a brother to her, not a lover. But they've been good friends anyway. That's how I got to know him, because of her. He and I would work on car things together, even after she and I broke up. But now I think she's gotten close to him again, and I think, maybe, she requested that he isn't my friend anymore.
I've had a childhood friend; my first real friend. I've known him since, maybe 5, or whenever we start kindergarten. Our friendship dwindled during high school due to different choices on cliques, but I tried to push forth again during college because we go to the same college and share similar class times (carpooling).
He was an okay friend all my life, but worse now. Whenever I try to hang out with him, something, or someone else is always more important. I've asked to hang out one night, he said no, I said tomorrow, he didn't answer; the next day, I ask to hang out, he says, sorry, forgot, I made other plans. And recently I ask for help on homework, something as simple as 10 minutes (he lives a few houses down, btw) but he remarks I should have paid attention in class instead. It was his birthday this weekend. I know he had a party of some kind. I wasn't invited. I asked him, hey, let's drive around at night this weekend, he said no, I'm busy. Not, it's my birthday, want to help celebrate? Nope. Just, busy. Couldn't be bothered. And this is someone I see and talk to 4 days a week at school...
I used to be able to say I have at least 5 friends. Now I'm down to 3. Two of which haven't replied to my texts in the past week. One left: I should call him, just so I can converse with someone other than my mom.
I think I've lost a friend specifically because of my ex girlfriend. She's been friends with him long than I've known her. She dated him once, for a week, but it didn't work out because he felt like a brother to her, not a lover. But they've been good friends anyway. That's how I got to know him, because of her. He and I would work on car things together, even after she and I broke up. But now I think she's gotten close to him again, and I think, maybe, she requested that he isn't my friend anymore.
I've had a childhood friend; my first real friend. I've known him since, maybe 5, or whenever we start kindergarten. Our friendship dwindled during high school due to different choices on cliques, but I tried to push forth again during college because we go to the same college and share similar class times (carpooling).
He was an okay friend all my life, but worse now. Whenever I try to hang out with him, something, or someone else is always more important. I've asked to hang out one night, he said no, I said tomorrow, he didn't answer; the next day, I ask to hang out, he says, sorry, forgot, I made other plans. And recently I ask for help on homework, something as simple as 10 minutes (he lives a few houses down, btw) but he remarks I should have paid attention in class instead. It was his birthday this weekend. I know he had a party of some kind. I wasn't invited. I asked him, hey, let's drive around at night this weekend, he said no, I'm busy. Not, it's my birthday, want to help celebrate? Nope. Just, busy. Couldn't be bothered. And this is someone I see and talk to 4 days a week at school...
I used to be able to say I have at least 5 friends. Now I'm down to 3. Two of which haven't replied to my texts in the past week. One left: I should call him, just so I can converse with someone other than my mom.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Bold Lines
1. This blog could use a break from blocks of text every so often.
2. As I mentioned before, I want to become an automotive designer. Here's my career goal.
It's a fusion of a Ford GT, Morgan, Aston Martin, Mustang, McLaren, Cadillac, '57 Bel Air, and so on.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Thoughts On Suicide, cont'
Inevitably, sometimes I wish I were dead. I don't ever wish I hadn't been born, for I consider my life a reasonable investment thus far. However for the ease of myself and others, I don't feel needed, so I could at anytime, disappear.
I'll continue to wake up everyday, just to find out whether this decision to live becomes greater than life itself.
*edit: I would like to remind myself my life really isn't bad, more or less, in any way. Basic amenities are covered. I am going to school and I have a car I can drive when I want. There are so many ways my life is below average, but hey, I'm not starving.
Making the Time
There's a lot I have wanted to say concerning recent events, discoveries, and confessions.
It's hard to write for an unknown audience. Yes, I do tear threads out of my tangled mind just to organize them onto this blank white page, and much of the time it is unfiltered. This has been a problem for me and others, because some things, I later find, shouldn't have been said. Or were misinterpreted. Or vague. But that's me trying to condense; otherwise I feel too wordy.
Sorry. One specific article I need to clarify is in regards to my sister. I made a note that I resented her as we grew up together. I left out how I feel now. Back then, the point I tried to make was she appeared as an ideal child to my parents. I didn't feel neglect, I felt jealous. And now that she's moved out, she doesn't talk to my parents much anymore; which brings me to the front and center of attention.
My mother misses my sister. Completely understandable. I just wish my sister stayed in touch with her more.
How I feel now about my sister also needs to be clarified. I'm proud of her and her accomplishments. When she got sick, she persevered. She fought through and earned the knowledge and respect she now has. She did extremely well in college and now at her work. She's made many friends and a significant other because she's a great person to be around. That's hugely admirable, and that's how I feel. The jealousy of the past has become admiration; I don't know what else to say.
Switching gears, I have to brag about school. I'm taking 21 units and auditing 5 more. Enrolled classes are Debate, Physics, AutoTech, English, and Sign Language, while I'm auditing Calc. I'm proud of this current accomplishment. These are all subjects that satisfy my curiosity. In fact, I would have tried for another class: Life Drawing, but to be sensible, there were enough classes filling my day.
Speaking of which, I made a bed in my car. Imagine this. Inside a Mazda Miata. I took out the passenger seat and put in my bed pillows for comfort. In the right position, it's actually comfortable, despite me being 5'10".
Since I want to keep tackling topics, I'll share the class experiences as more develop.
One of my friends became my friend because she was curious as to why some shy people are shy. This subject deserves its own post. I could go on and on stretching my reasons for this. But there's one very important reason I won't:
Being shy upholds a means of mystery. Being shy makes an individual more difficult to get through, but there's so much more to discover when the sense of comfort settles in. A shy person's thoughts are more developed, so there's more to listen to. Again, once trust settles in.
This doesn't answer the question why some people are shy; I'm encouraging anyone to take their time trying to find out. Shy people, I think, are more interesting. Which is exactly the type of person I fell in love with.
Needless to say, she still floats across my mind, for better and for worse. My ex-girlfriend, I mean. Worse, is the more accurate description of how my day turns when any of those thoughts cross. I wish I didn't think about it anymore.
This one threw me off though: a bag boy at my local grocer, I think he's gay... he's very well groomed, he smiles at me like I smile at another girl, he hands me my grocery bags, and when he does... he just gives me this look... the same look I might give another girl I like... with those big generous eyes... just creeps me out. Twice already; two shopping occasions that we've crossed paths.
I've barely talked about my car! Still not much to say. If you remember from a while ago, I mentioned my clutch needs to be replaced. The new one's sitting under my bed. Fortunately, $500 is also sitting under my bed (just kidding, it's in the bank). My point is, I'm just waiting to install it myself. This is the main reason why I enrolled into an Auto Tech class at school; the class's focus is on drivelines and transmissions. During the semester, a team and I will swap it (permission already granted by the professor!). Anyway, on to more important things:
Owning a motorcycle has been a dream for a long time. Not a big dream, a simple wish.
My friend has one. He got it a while ago, less than a year. Got himself a license too. He and I have been hanging out more recently, mostly me driving around PV at night. One night, he followed me in his motorcycle: what a blast we both had! He's still a bit new and rough, so he went slower than me in four wheels, which is totally understandable (I would too).
Yesterday he gave me the chance to find out why he goes slow. Because it's harder than it looks. It was learning how to drive again! But after many loops in an empty parking lot, I'm now refueled to get myself a motorcycle. Literally, it is such a thrill—exactly like learning to drive.
The downside is, in fact the only downside I care to see is, either I save and spend $5k on a bike, or $5k on car upgrades (a turbo). And here's how I see it: a bike accelerates on a dime, but a turbo on my car will make it accelerate on a dime. Tough fuckin' decision, man. But I have time, $5k is a long savings away.
In my efforts to save money, I won't be spending any on Halloween this year. That was the first reason. The second reason is I need to (and will) focus my time on school, rather than another elaborate maze in my front yard. For those of you who don't know, look back in my archives to the very first posts: all about Halloween. I can't resist cutting out the holiday, though. I will still do something. Dead simple is my goal. Hit them with my leaf blower cannon and coffin ghost. And some fog and a strobe light and some extra decorations I already have, and my Thursday night should be satisfactory (October 31 is a Thursday. Besides, my class ends at 6pm that day). I brought up this topic only because I received a Halloween decorations catalog in the mail recently.
Restated: I will focus my time on school. I've never had this many classes, and I've never been this serious about it. I want to keep writing here as often as I can, as it is my vent, but consistency is not guaranteed. ...I don't know why I just said that, it's already inconsistent. But at least now you know what my distractions are.
Goodnight, fellow reader. I'll miss you, as I always do.
While I sleep, you can check out my recent adventure at the Peterson Automotive Museum. The photos briefly define my taste in auto design.
It's hard to write for an unknown audience. Yes, I do tear threads out of my tangled mind just to organize them onto this blank white page, and much of the time it is unfiltered. This has been a problem for me and others, because some things, I later find, shouldn't have been said. Or were misinterpreted. Or vague. But that's me trying to condense; otherwise I feel too wordy.
Sorry. One specific article I need to clarify is in regards to my sister. I made a note that I resented her as we grew up together. I left out how I feel now. Back then, the point I tried to make was she appeared as an ideal child to my parents. I didn't feel neglect, I felt jealous. And now that she's moved out, she doesn't talk to my parents much anymore; which brings me to the front and center of attention.
My mother misses my sister. Completely understandable. I just wish my sister stayed in touch with her more.
How I feel now about my sister also needs to be clarified. I'm proud of her and her accomplishments. When she got sick, she persevered. She fought through and earned the knowledge and respect she now has. She did extremely well in college and now at her work. She's made many friends and a significant other because she's a great person to be around. That's hugely admirable, and that's how I feel. The jealousy of the past has become admiration; I don't know what else to say.
Switching gears, I have to brag about school. I'm taking 21 units and auditing 5 more. Enrolled classes are Debate, Physics, AutoTech, English, and Sign Language, while I'm auditing Calc. I'm proud of this current accomplishment. These are all subjects that satisfy my curiosity. In fact, I would have tried for another class: Life Drawing, but to be sensible, there were enough classes filling my day.
Speaking of which, I made a bed in my car. Imagine this. Inside a Mazda Miata. I took out the passenger seat and put in my bed pillows for comfort. In the right position, it's actually comfortable, despite me being 5'10".
Since I want to keep tackling topics, I'll share the class experiences as more develop.
One of my friends became my friend because she was curious as to why some shy people are shy. This subject deserves its own post. I could go on and on stretching my reasons for this. But there's one very important reason I won't:
Being shy upholds a means of mystery. Being shy makes an individual more difficult to get through, but there's so much more to discover when the sense of comfort settles in. A shy person's thoughts are more developed, so there's more to listen to. Again, once trust settles in.
This doesn't answer the question why some people are shy; I'm encouraging anyone to take their time trying to find out. Shy people, I think, are more interesting. Which is exactly the type of person I fell in love with.
Needless to say, she still floats across my mind, for better and for worse. My ex-girlfriend, I mean. Worse, is the more accurate description of how my day turns when any of those thoughts cross. I wish I didn't think about it anymore.
This one threw me off though: a bag boy at my local grocer, I think he's gay... he's very well groomed, he smiles at me like I smile at another girl, he hands me my grocery bags, and when he does... he just gives me this look... the same look I might give another girl I like... with those big generous eyes... just creeps me out. Twice already; two shopping occasions that we've crossed paths.
I've barely talked about my car! Still not much to say. If you remember from a while ago, I mentioned my clutch needs to be replaced. The new one's sitting under my bed. Fortunately, $500 is also sitting under my bed (just kidding, it's in the bank). My point is, I'm just waiting to install it myself. This is the main reason why I enrolled into an Auto Tech class at school; the class's focus is on drivelines and transmissions. During the semester, a team and I will swap it (permission already granted by the professor!). Anyway, on to more important things:
Owning a motorcycle has been a dream for a long time. Not a big dream, a simple wish.
My friend has one. He got it a while ago, less than a year. Got himself a license too. He and I have been hanging out more recently, mostly me driving around PV at night. One night, he followed me in his motorcycle: what a blast we both had! He's still a bit new and rough, so he went slower than me in four wheels, which is totally understandable (I would too).
Yesterday he gave me the chance to find out why he goes slow. Because it's harder than it looks. It was learning how to drive again! But after many loops in an empty parking lot, I'm now refueled to get myself a motorcycle. Literally, it is such a thrill—exactly like learning to drive.
The downside is, in fact the only downside I care to see is, either I save and spend $5k on a bike, or $5k on car upgrades (a turbo). And here's how I see it: a bike accelerates on a dime, but a turbo on my car will make it accelerate on a dime. Tough fuckin' decision, man. But I have time, $5k is a long savings away.
In my efforts to save money, I won't be spending any on Halloween this year. That was the first reason. The second reason is I need to (and will) focus my time on school, rather than another elaborate maze in my front yard. For those of you who don't know, look back in my archives to the very first posts: all about Halloween. I can't resist cutting out the holiday, though. I will still do something. Dead simple is my goal. Hit them with my leaf blower cannon and coffin ghost. And some fog and a strobe light and some extra decorations I already have, and my Thursday night should be satisfactory (October 31 is a Thursday. Besides, my class ends at 6pm that day). I brought up this topic only because I received a Halloween decorations catalog in the mail recently.
Restated: I will focus my time on school. I've never had this many classes, and I've never been this serious about it. I want to keep writing here as often as I can, as it is my vent, but consistency is not guaranteed. ...I don't know why I just said that, it's already inconsistent. But at least now you know what my distractions are.
Goodnight, fellow reader. I'll miss you, as I always do.
While I sleep, you can check out my recent adventure at the Peterson Automotive Museum. The photos briefly define my taste in auto design.
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