Online Identity Project

For my project, I will be utilizing my YouTube page. It will showcase me as Cinematographer and a Documentary film maker. I will have the projects that have worked on during my CMI education, as well as other projects that I have created on my own. I will also link to other online communities that I am apart of that help me get the issues that I find important out to the whole world.

Blackalicious - Alphabet Aerobics

I just really like this song, so I thought I would share it

Blackalicious

Alphabet Aerobics

A to G EP

Narrowing An Idea

For my medium analysis, I'm trying to decide from a couple of topics. One I would like to do would be on how the iPod was first implemented, and now how it has evolved into something way more advanced than a portable music player. Another topic I would like to discuss is how video on the internet started, and how it transitioned into things like youtube and ustream, ad eventually into HD content streaming on the web.

One World Order/Currency?

Now, I'm not one to follow conspiracy theories, but these caught my eye.  Here are a few videos I stubbled upon today. They are very interesting...

Analysts believe that because of crash of the U.S. dollar, it may result in the creation of the "Amero".

According to AmeroCurrency.com:

"AmeroCurrency.com has never claimed the national governments of North America have established aconsolidated currency plan--and certainly have not claimed one would be called the “Amero.”

Having said so, it is necessary to point out there has been such a plan on the table for over a decade. “Amero” was the name the noted economist who first initiated the movement chose to represent his concept of a proposed combined North American currency union.
The United States economic condition now abysmal, the stage is set to realign and redesign how our national business is conducted. It has been suggested the U.S. Government nationalize the mortgage industry. It has long been suggested our medical system be nationalized. Higher taxes, fewer services and wider borders.
The Security Prosperity Partnership of North America is a U.S. State Department reality. The proposals include minimalizing borders between the U.S., Canada and Mexico, creating a continental perimeter border for defense, technologies reducing the necessity to inspect inbound import cargo and tolling the superhighways on which we and the mystery cargos will travel.
It has been said government overthrow of people is best designed such that the people beg for the government to “do something to help us.” The people are already begging for something to be done. The rest of the apparatuses are in place."

Very Interesting...

The Technology AutoBio of Ryan

For as long as I can remember, Technology has been a part of my every day life. For the most part, it goes unnoticed; it has been so integrated in my life that it’s hard to determine if there has been a point in my own timeline where technology was not present. Technology continues to evolve and develop; as does the way I use it daily. It will also be a major factor in my future as a Digital Film Maker.My first experience with technology, that I can remember, was with computers. My dad had a Windows computer in my parents’ bedroom of a small two-bedroom duplex. The first time I used it, I played a flight simulator that my dad played. I tried my best at the simulator, but couldn’t quite get the plane off the ground. I continued to try for a few days longer, but got extremely board and frustrated with it.I closed the game and began to explore the computer. I would open and shut programs, poke through various folders of documents, and stroked random set keys in the word processor. I eventually figured out my way around the machine and moved on to looking through the system files on the computer. I was so fascinated with everything that was in the computer; I had no comprehension of what the files with terms and acronyms did but it was of great interest to me.
My best friend lived in the apartment connected to my duplex. We both loved exploring computers. 

We also loved playing his Super Nintendo after school. This was my first experience with video games that I actually enjoyed, as apposed to the flight simulator my dad played. We would play games like Super Mario World, Super Mario Kart, Mortal Kombat II, and Home Alone The Video game. We also had a friend across the street that had an original Nintendo Entertainment System. This is where I learned the roots of my newfound addiction. I became a pro at Super Mario Bros. 1 & 3 and would make the homage to his house to play the games religiously. 

Eventually we moved and I no longer lived next to a friend who had a video game; I had to sleep over at his house so we could hang out and play games. But come one very special Christmas, I received a Sega Saturn as a present. This piece of technology thrust me into the video game passion that I have to this day.

Today, many of my friends ask me for help with computers. A little more than a year ago, I made the switch from the Windows OS to Mac OS X. 

I had a strong foundation of computer knowledge when I used Windows, and that transferred over when I went “Mac”. The only 

thing I needed to learn was the different ways it was done, but the principles were basically the same. I have one or two friends who come to me with every question they have about their Apple Computer; “a go to guy for Mac questions” is what one of my friends described me as over the phone one day.

 I also continue to play video games frequently. Currently I own a Nintendo Wii, a Playstation 3, an original Xbox, a Sega 

Dreamcast, and a Sony PSP. A few in my circle of friends and family don’t like to play with me because I apparently have a natural ability to pick up a game and do significantly well. Playing games is also a way I like to relax and “get lost” for a while.

Today I continue to use technology daily. I believe that it would be extremely hard for me to go through a day without using technology, even if I didn’t want to. I use a cell phone as an alarm clock, I take notes on my laptop, I listen to my iPod as I drive home at the end of the day, and I watch HD movies and Television with my wife at night. My job has also made a huge selection of T.V. and high speed Internet accessible to me for free that I wouldn’t be able to afford if I wasn’t working there. I am seeking a degree in Digital Film Making where I use high-end computers and video technology as part of my college learning experience. The technologies I learn to use in the program will affect my future career as a filmmaker, but how to use them will change as technology advances.

In the future, technology will be a tremendous part of my everyday life. Professionally, I will use computers and digital cameras to make movies. Computer hardware and software will continue to become more powerful and easy to use, making the process of film production better. 

The resolutions of digital cameras will get better, ultimately leading to images far superior to 35mm films. As part of my personal life, I will enjoy video games and computers on a higher level. Video games will become more interactive and look improved with every system released. Music and movies will look and sound better with newer portable media players. HDTVs and High Definition media content will come down in price, making visual media more stimulating.

Technology has, is, and will always be a part of my life. My experience with technology in the past has carried over to new ones. Having a strong foundation has benefited my use of newer technologies. I will continue to use and enjoy technology everyday. I believe that one-day there will no longer be a cultural divide when it comes to using technology, and I hope that others will find the passion and practical benefits that I too have discovered.

Digi-Tive

I consider myself to be a "Digital Native". Not a Native American who uses technology, but a person who finds new technology interesting and useful. I can generally pick up something and figure out how it works or what it's purpose is before every glancing at any manual or instruction guide.

There was one specific time while in High School where I came head to head with a "Digital Immigrant". One of my teachers was trying to show us a movie; She had used VHS for a majority of her life and didn't know exactly how to use the DVD player. At her first attempt, she put the DVD in upside down; ERORR blinked across the LCD display. Second attempt she had a picture, but no sound. I could feel the tension as she was feeling as she "Fiddled" with this newfound contraption. At one point I though she might cry because she couldn't figure it out. I rose my hand and asked her if I could help. She said yes, and I went up and adjusted the player for her. After the movie loaded up, she shut off the light's and Facepalm'd at her desk as the movie began.

Katie Couric Interviews Sarah Palin

I don't usually like to get political when I'm on the blogosphere, but I couldn't pass this up. Now, I'm a registered Independent, so I'm not favoring and political bent (cough-Ron Paul '08-cough cough), but I can't see how anyone could be a vice president candidate without knowing how to answer questions in a comprehendible manor.

Katie Couric, the esteemed journalist, got the exclusive chance to interview Vice Presidential hopeful Sarah Palin - this is what occured:

This reminds me of another interview question, but I can't quite put my finger on it...

"iPod, your my only friend"

One piece of technology that I find crucial to my existence is Apple's iPod, but not just any iPod. No no no, none of this 8 gbs of space; 16 gbs? Pshhh! No, come on... give me the good stuff! Thats right the iPod Classic. The beautiful little device boasts up to 120 gbs (160 gbs on the previous model). I have the 80 gb model, which I have yet to fill it up to even halfway. The soundtrack to my life is on this thing, and I'm still adding new things continuously. Everything from the classic rock songs my dad first introduced me to, to the first song I heard poetic bars laid to the rhythm of a sampled beat, to the song my wife and I danced to on our wedding day. Everything and anything I want to listen to is on this device.

I have playlists made for different moods and periods. When I'm studying or having a stressful day, I just kick on my 'DownTime' Playlist, which consists of artist such as Jack Johnson, The Beatles, John Mayer, Radiohead, Bob Dylan, Jill Scott, and others. Feeling like I need to hear some truth? I flip over to my 'True Hip-Hop' playlist, containing artists like The Roots, Common, Atmosphere, Blackalicious, Flobots, A Tribe Called Quest, Jurassic 5, Lupe Fiasco... you get the idea.

I also have a lot of Podcasts that I subscribe to and enjoy hearing. I like to keep up on what my favorite NFL team is doing, who by the way is the Miami Dolphins. I also subscribe to the /Filmcast Podcast to hear what critics think of the new movies that come out. I also subscribe to Christian Podcast, things like Greg Laurie's daily sermon (who is from Riverside, CA) or Skip Heitzig's sermons (who is out of Albuquerque, NM). Things that I wouldn't be able to hear regularly in person or on the radio.

I don't even listen to the radio anymore. Why would I? Before the age of the iPod, I had to either listen to the same CD over and over again or the radio. Now, I get frustrated when I tune-in to the radio because the stations never play what I want to hear. I wish I could just change the song without having to call in and request a song that I probably won't hear before I reach my destination, oh wait... I can! And it plays everything I want to hear! the iPod Guys and Gals...

PS3 Discourse Community

I am part of a community that owns, or likes, the Playstation 3 console. I believe that the Playstation is marketed more toward men. The reason I have come to this conclusion are the games that are played on the console. Most games are for a mature audience, which in my experience, most girls or women don't find interesting. I own a copy of Grand Theft Auto 4 for the PS3 and love just running around and playing for hours; My wife tried it for only 5 minutes and has never picked it up again.

Facebook Widget vs. Playstation@Home

This is a Facebook Widget for the Mac Dashboard. The 'Home' button is the same logo that PS@Home will be using. Who had the logo first?

Playstationhome.com

FacebookWidget Link

The Incredible Hulk (2008) Review

Today when I looked at what movies have come out, one movie in particular caught my eye, The Incredible Hulk. I generally enjoy movies put out by marvel studios, so i decided to check out the movie today (opening day).

 

First, the good. The movie had some spectacular action sequences. The movie started off quick paced, and the rest followed. One specific scene that I like was when Hulk was fighting a large army brigade on a college campus. The action sequences in this film where simply amazing. The animation of the CGI characters where amazing as well. But in this movie, rather than going for a stunning photo realism depiction of the characters, I feel they went for a little more animation feel, which I think works for the film.

Now for the bad... wheres the story??? The film movie had no real beginning middle, or end. It started off, assuming that the audience has read and studied the back story to where The Incredible Hulk begins. The good aspect of this movie is also it's downfall, stunning action sequences, but thats it. And with such an amazing actor such as Edward Norton, I'd expect more, but left feeling deprived of good character depiction. I do recall hearing a conflict between Edward Norton and Marvel Studios about the final outcome of the film, perhaps this is what it was about. Anyway, the movie ends with a sudden flop. The ending felt more like a large marketing scheme for further Marvel Studio releases than the end of a narrative. 

Overall, the movie was cool to look at, but leaves you gasping for some sort of linear narrative story. 3 Stars out of 5

My first mobile blog post

here's jackie feed the ducks at a park in Denver

Cinnamon Dolce Latte

I've just learned how to make a Cinnamon Dolce Latte and I've decided to share my recipe.

What you'll need:

1. Espresso

2. Steamed Milk

3. Carmel Syrup (I use the Ice Cream topping kind)

4. Cinnamon Syrup (you can find it at any store next to the Coffee)

5. Powdered Cinnamon

6. Whipped Cream (optional)

The following instructions are for a 16 ounce latte:

First, you will need to make the espresso and stream the milk. Next, fill the bottom of your cup with the carmel syrup (only till you can't see the bottom of your cup, then add a little more. Adjust to taste). Next, add 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon syrup to the cup. Add two shots of espresso and stir (I like to add 3 shots, but adjust to your desired strength). Fill the rest of your cup with steamed milk. Tap in your desired amount of powdered cinnamon and stir. If you choose, add whipped cream and top it off cinnamon powder for professional decoration. 

Hope you enjoy!

-Ryan

St. Bladricks Event & Documentary

It's been quite some time since my last posting... about 2 months to be exact, ha ha. I haven't been able to find the time to blog often. But I'm trying to get back into the swing of things.

First off, the St. Baldricks event went great. I'm sporting a, well somewhat bald head (it's already started growing back!). I'm still waiting on info for how much total was raised and how many people participated, but I will keep you posted. But overall, I think it went really well for being the first annual event. There was a great turn out! Thank you all to those who participated and supported our event.

I also filmed the entire event and I'm planning on making a short-form documentary on it. I'm in the process of digitizing all of my footage, but it takes a while with my schedule (how ever long it took to shoot, thats how long it will take to digitize. Man I wish it was all digital!). Anyways, after I'm done editing it, I will post a finished copy of the documentary here, as well as on my YouTube account (www.youtube.com/remarkableryan ) my MySpace page (www.myspace.com/mrhall), and my Facebook page. I will also be submitting it to Current TV to try and get it on air! (current.com/people/remarkableryan). Again, thank you for making the event a BIG SUCESS!

-Ryan

My Valentines Day

My Valentines day went very well. As you may know, this was the first Valentines day as a married man. It was a bit different than when Jackie and I were dating. It felt more relaxed than years past. There's nothing "expected" as most people freak out about come this time of the year. She did want something, but it was spending time with me, rather than just doing something for her. I think a lot of people loose sight of that on holidays like Valentines day. It's about the loved ones you surround yourself with, not the things you surround yourself with. I know that sound kinda cliche, but it's true. 

We where supposed to go and hang out with Jackie's cousin and her husband, but something ended up falling through. Anyway, we decided to cook dinner, steaks to be exact. I entered the store the same side as the card isles are located. The scene was almost comical. There must of been over 20 guys there in the isle looking for a last minute gift. It made me want to take a picture (now that I think of it, I should of). I started thinking of how shallow people are starting to become. Maybe it's been so long that I've forgotten what it's like to be in those guys' shoes, but I don't know. I thought of how lucky I am to have a wife who's most desired gift on Valentines day is my time. I bought food and treats that I was confident Jackie would enjoy. Keep in mind that this was last minute as well, but it was different. I wasn't stressing out about what she would think of what I was doing for her. All I could think about was having the opportunity to spend time with my wife. I don't know who of you is reading this, but if you have a girlfriend/boyfriend, but show them the love you have for them, not how much your relationship is worth with a present. If your relationship is based on what you can get out of it, your headed in a deadly direction. Try viewing you relationship on how you can be a value to your loved one. It may be hard at first, but it will definitely pay off in the long run. Hope you all had a great V-Day!

-Ryan

St. Baldricks Foundation Fundraiser

I am partaking in an event in Las Cruces known as St. Baldricks. This is a non profit organization that helps raise money for cancer patients and their families. The provide funds for cancer research as well as to families for medication expenses, doctor appointments, treatments, and even simple living necessities that are often taken for granted. In this event, I will be volunteering my head! I, as well as other participants, will be shaving their heads in honor of those who are fighting cancer, and those who are no longer with us. I am shaving my head in honor of my little brother Kevin. You can find out more about my brother by clicking Here. I am asking for supporters to join me in fighting this disease. You can do so by clicking the link below. I pray that you would consider donating to this foundation if you are able. To find out more about the St. Bladricks Foundation, please visit the link below.

About St. Baldricks

St. Baldricks PSA

Ryan St. Baldricks Page

In Faith,

-Ryan

My First Blog

What's up inter-web, you probably don't know who I am so let me introduce myself. I'm Ryan, a 20 year old college student from Las Cruces, New Mexico. I've been married for 8 months and 11 days now, and I love my wife with all of my heart and soul. She gives me strength that seemed to have escaped me in the past. I attend New Mexico State University and I'm seeking a Bachelor's Degree in Creative Media. When I graduate, I hope to make films or documentaries. Films and the process of making them, are my passion. I also love music very much. I play guitar, but I haven't picked it up in a while (I feel guilty for that, because I think God has blessed me with talent for that and I've been letting it go to waste). I also like to make beats on my Mac. I love Rock, Soul, Motown, Country, heck even some Electronica. I'll listen to pretty much anything, but the genre that I hold above these (not high above, but high enough that it needs mentioning) is Hip-Hop. Not the Hip-Hop that you would hear on popular radio stations or MTV, but Underground Hip-Hop. Thats where the real lyrical talent is, not the shallow things of the "Music Scene" of today. But more of this in another post.

With this blog, I hope tell the world who I am. I want my words to inspire those who read them. I want to be able to be real with you and tell you what's on my mind. I want others to know the insights that rest in the depths of my brain. What a better place than the internet right? In front of the whole world for everyone to see. Thank you very much for letting me introduce myself.