Eclipse in Ashland

Time-Lapse of the Eclipse

This captures the sun's changing brightness during the eclipse, even though it won't show complete darkness. Witness how a 93% moon coverage affects daylight.

This was captured using the iPhone Xs Time-Lapse feature.

Johnny Carson Talls about 12am

Reading a Letter from Greenwich, England

Parking tickets are a universal pain, but Dennis Hart took his frustration to a whole new level. In a case that landed him on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, Hart challenged the very notion of "12:00 pm" - and in turn, the validity of his parking ticket.

The Midnight of the Matter

Hart received a parking violation for exceeding the time limit on a sign that clearly stated "No Parking After 12:00 PM." However, Hart took a rather...unique approach to interpreting the time limit. He argued that since there is no such thing as "12:00 pm," the sign was invalid, and therefore, his parking ticket shouldn't stand.

His reasoning? Hart believed that "noon" referred solely to the moment the clock strikes twelve midday, a fleeting point in time that doesn't actually exist. Think of it as the blink of an eye - it happens, but it's gone so fast you can barely perceive it.

Taking it to Carson

Determined to fight the ticket, Hart landed himself on The Tonight Show. Now, Johnny Carson wasn't exactly known for legal expertise, but he sure knew how to make entertainment out of absurdity.

To settle the timey-wimey debate, The Tonight Show producers reached out to Professor Stuart Malin in Greenwich, England. Professor Malin, bless his academic heart, likely had a good chuckle before confirming the existence of both 12:00 am (midnight) and 12:00 pm (noon) - widely accepted concepts for the past, well, forever.

Watch Johnny Explain the Situation

Lowell in Motion: A Timelapse Adventure

GoPro Hero 9 Timelapse

Last Sunday, I set up my GoPro at the corner of Paige and Bridget Street in Lowell, Massachusetts (140 Paige Street) to capture a timelapse of the everyday hustle and bustle. The GoPro Hero 9 camera was set to record for 6 hours.

While there might not be heart-stopping action, the video offers a calming glimpse into the rhythm of the city. You'll see cars navigate the intersection, and pedestrians making their way across the street.

Take a look and see Lowell come alive in this timelapse:

1998 Commercials

Classic Commercial I found on a VHS tape

This video features a compilation of commercials from 1998. The commercials advertise various products and services, including Sprint's dime rate plan, Taco Bell's Nachos Bell Grande, and Jack in the Box's Ultimate Cheeseburger.

The first commercial is for Sprint's dime rate plan. The commercial starts with a woman who is suddenly promoted to boss. She decides to take the day off and go shopping. She tries on clothes and feels great about how they look on her. Later, at the salon, she meets Candice Bergen, who tells her that she got up to 200 minutes of free long distance for signing up for Sprint's dime rate plan. The commercial ends with a call to action, encouraging viewers to sign up for Sprint's dime rate plan for 10 cents a minute and get up to 200 minutes free.

The second commercial is for Taco Bell's Nachos Bell Grande. The commercial features a brief announcement about Taco Bell's Nachos Bell Grande, which was available for just 99 cents when you buy a large drink in 1998.

The third commercial is for Jack in the Box's Ultimate Cheeseburger. The commercial features men discussing the Ultimate Cheeseburger. One man likes the fact that the cheeseburger is just meat and cheese, and doesn't have a bun. Jack questions why the cheeseburger needs a bun if it's just meat and cheese. The commercial ends with the two men agreeing to look into the bun issue.

Overall, this video provides a glimpse into advertising from the late 1990s. The commercials feature catchy slogans, celebrity endorsements, and a focus on value. They also reflect the popular culture of the time, such as the rise of mobile phones and the popularity of fast food.

Watch the video

Mort Sahl (YouTube Shorts)

The Presidency: The Wit and Wisdom (1986)

Mort Sahl, a trailblazing satirist, was known for his incisive commentary on politics, society, and current events. Armed with a rolled-up newspaper, he took to the stage and delivered extended improvised monologues that dissected the headlines of the day. His unique blend of stand-up comedy and political satire made him a true icon.

Comedy as Social Commentary

Sahl believed that comedy should emerge from opinion and challenge the established order. He lamented the cautiousness of many contemporary comedians, emphasizing that they should tackle weighty issues rather than merely discrediting individuals. In an era when the stakes are higher than ever, Sahl's words resonate: "Too much comedy today is vulgar, not clever."

The Presidency: The Wit and Wisdom

Here are a couple of YouTube Shorts from "The Presidency: The Wit and Wisdom" an event at the Gerald Ford Museum in 1986.

Might be best to watch on YouTube.

Gary Radnich: It Happened Tonight

KRON Sports: Baseball, Tennis and More!

This KRON Sports video covers a variety of sports news, including baseball, tennis, and more. Here's a recap of the top stories:

• St. Louis Cardinals win 2-0 against the Montreal Expos. Rookie pitcher Bud Smith threw a no-hitter, while Woody Williams pitched a six-inning perfect game. The Cardinals are now 10-4 on the season.
• Brad Gilbert defeats Andre Agassi in the US Open quarterfinals. Gilbert won in four tiebreakers, and his wife Bridget was there to celebrate with him.
• Other sports news: The video also mentions other sports news, but it is not clear what they are.

Overall, this is a short but informative video that covers a variety of sports news. If you are a fan of sports, then you will want to check it out.

In addition to the above, the video also mentions the following:

• Ken Camenetti made a catch in the dugout, but it was not a legal catch.
• Morley Safer and Mike Wallace are amazing.
• The video was made past midnight.

Watch the Video

Monday Morning Motivation

Quick Hit of Motivation

In the digital realm, where pixels dance and inspiration flows, we find a short YouTube video - a beacon of motivation. Created with passion and purpose, this video transcends the days of the week. Let's dive into its essence and explore how it can ignite the fire within us.

The Quick Hit of Motivation

Why Mondays?

Mondays - the universal symbol of fresh starts and renewed intentions. But why limit motivation to just one day? Our lives don't operate on a weekly calendar; they pulse with energy every moment. So, let's break free from the Monday myth and embrace motivation daily.

The Video

In a concise two-minute burst, the video encapsulates profound thoughts about motivation. Here's what it whispers to our souls:

1. Believe in Your Potential: You are more capable than you realize. Trust your abilities, even when doubt knocks at your door.

2. Dreams Don't Wait for Mondays: Dreams don't wear calendars. They thrive on relentless pursuit. So, chase them today, tomorrow, and every day.

3. The Power of Consistency: Consistency isn't a Monday ritual; it's a lifelong commitment. Small steps, repeated daily, lead to monumental achievements.

4. Fuel Your Passion: Passion doesn't clock in at 9 AM on Mondays. It burns within you. Ignite it, stoke it, and let it guide your journey.

5. Embrace Imperfection: Perfection is an illusion. Progress, however, is real. Embrace your flaws - they're stepping stones to growth.

The Challenge

As the video fades, it leaves us with a challenge: Be Inspired Today. Not just on Mondays, but every day. Take that leap, write that chapter, make that call, and dance with your dreams.

The Blog Post's Grand Finale

And now, without further ado, here's the video that encapsulates these thoughts. Click below, immerse yourself, and let motivation flow through your veins:

FlexClip

Great Tool to Create Quality Videos.

FlexClip is an online video editor that is easy to use and has a variety of features, making it a good option for beginners and professionals alike. Some of the key features of FlexClip include the ability to add text, music, and transitions to videos, as well as a library of royalty-free stock assets that users can incorporate into their videos.

https://www.flexclip.com/

Five Things I Learned

AI Tools - There are seven AI tools: AI Text to Video, AI Video Script, AI Blog to Video, AI Image Generator, AI Text to Speech, and AI Background remover.

Templates - There are lots of templates to help get you started. There are 20-Intro/Outro templates were are great to have for any short project. These are quality generated Intro/Outros.

Text - There's all sorts of amazing text styles for just about everyone needs. You can easy add Basic Text syle which will display over any video - definitely trendy right now on Tik Tok. FlexClip is a great resource for anything text related. There's all sorts of practical styles for Social Media, Lower Thirds, Wedding Title, Birthday Titles, Shape Overlays, Broadcast Pack, Promo Badges, Big Title Overlays, Background Titles, and so much more.

AI Auto Subtitle - You can add AI subtitles to any video. There are 10 different Subtitle styles to select from. These are a great way to update any video with some Subtitle. The only "downside" is that this doesn't offer Subtitles that highlight the words being spoken. However, FlexClip offers a lot more styles than other places. The Subtitle translation is pretty good, and editing aftwards is a breeze.

Audio - Everyone wants good audio and FlexClip has got you covered. They have StoryBox Audio collection available right in your project. You can simply search for the audio type you need and listen to a preview. Try the Creepy Distane Wolves with Thunder Crack Roll Rumble for some amazing Halloween type video.

Will I Use this?

Absolutely! The AI features and the ability to quickly create videos make this an excellent tool. Additionally, it serves as a fantastic resource for post-Final Cut Pro editing, allowing the addition of graphics and filler images/videos to enhance the professionalism of my videos.

While other tools are available, FlexClip stands out for its ease of use. Many alternatives are either more expensive or offer limited features. Using FlexClip can significantly enhance the quality of your videos.

Overall, FlexClip is a great option for anyone looking for an easy-to-use online video editor with a variety of features.

New Videos in February

Be sure to check out the Media blog post all month long for some cool things that I do using FlexClip.

"Monsters Of Rap" CD/Cassette Collection TV Commercial

Unleashing the Beats

In the pantheon of classic TV commercials, few can match the rhythmic nostalgia and foot-tapping allure of the "Monsters Of Rap" CD/Cassette collection advertisement. A time capsule of rap's golden era, this commercial not only promoted a phenomenal compilation of tracks but also captured the essence of a genre that was rapidly reshaping the music landscape.

The Beat Drops with "Baby Got Back"

The commercial kicks off with the unmistakable bassline of Sir Mix-A-Lot's "Baby Got Back." This track, with its iconic opening line, doesn't just start the ad; it blasts open a portal to the early '90s. The choice of this song was a masterstroke. It was not just a chart-topper but a cultural phenomenon that encapsulated the era's attitude and style.

A Lineup of 35 Heavy-Hitters

What makes the "Monsters Of Rap" collection truly stand out is its exhaustive lineup of 35 massive hits. These aren't just songs; they're anthems that defined a generation. From the gritty storytelling of New York's streets to the laid-back vibes of West Coast G-funk, the collection spans the breadth of the genre's diverse sounds and stories.

A Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane

For those who grew up in the '90s, this commercial is more than just an advertisement; it's a trip down memory lane. Every beat and lyric takes you back to a time of boomboxes, high-top fades, and the thrill of recording your favorite songs off the radio. The commercial itself, with its rapid-fire montage of mega hits, mimics the energetic flow of a well-curated mixtape.

The Impact on a Generation

"Monsters Of Rap" did more than sell CDs and cassettes; it brought rap into the living rooms of America, introducing a wider audience to a genre that was often misunderstood. It played a crucial role in not just promoting artists but in validating rap as a significant and influential form of music.

A Collectible for Rap Enthusiasts

Today, the "Monsters Of Rap" collection holds a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts and collectors. It's a tangible piece of music history, a snapshot of a time when rap was finding its voice and claiming its place in the musical mainstream.

The Commercial That Keeps on Giving

The enduring popularity of the "Monsters Of Rap" commercial lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia while still feeling relevant. It's a testament to the timeless nature of the tracks it features and the ongoing influence of '90s rap on today's music.

Watch and Relive the Magic

Now, it's time to relive the magic. Below is the iconic "Monsters Of Rap" TV commercial. Watch it, and let the nostalgia wash over you. Whether you're a die-hard fan of old-school rap or a newcomer curious about the genre's roots, this commercial is a delightful slice of musical history.

35 Hits

Song mentioned in the video:

1999 Commercials

Some Fun Retro Commercials

Welcome back to our nostalgic journey through the enchanting world of retro commercials! Today, we're delving into a special find from my personal VHS collection. This tape, a relic of advertising's golden past, features some of the most iconic and memorable commercials that defined an era. Let's rewind and revisit these classics.

1. Burger King's Breakfast Delivery Revolution

Remember the time when the idea of having a hot breakfast delivered right to your doorstep seemed like a dream? Burger King made that dream a reality with their groundbreaking commercial. The ad opens with sleepy-eyed individuals waking up to the tantalizing aroma of a Burger King breakfast. The message was clear: why settle for a regular breakfast when you can start your day with the king of fast food? This commercial was more than just an advertisement; it was a cultural moment that redefined fast-food breakfast.

2. Kodak Moments in the Rain

Kodak, a titan in the photography industry, presented a heartwarming commercial that resonated with anyone who's ever tried to make the best of a less-than-ideal situation. It featured a newlywed couple on their honeymoon, faced with relentless rain. Instead of letting it dampen their spirits, they capture joyous moments with their Kodak camera, turning gloomy weather into an unforgettable series of 'Kodak Moments'. This ad was a beautiful reminder of the power of perspective and the magic that lies in capturing life's unexpected joys.

3. The Musical Charm of Diet Coke

Diet Coke took a creative turn in their advertising with a commercial that showcased a young man's musical journey. Strumming his guitar in public places, he collects enough coins to treat himself to a refreshing can of Diet Coke. This ad struck a chord with the audience, symbolizing the brand's connection with youthful aspirations, creativity, and the simple pleasures in life. It wasn't just about promoting a beverage; it was about celebrating the spirit of pursuing one's passion.

4. NBC's Introduction of 'The West Wing'

Last but certainly not least, NBC's commercial for the introduction of 'The West Wing' was more than just a show promo; it was a glimpse into a series that would become a television legend. The commercial gave viewers a sneak peek into the fast-paced, high-stakes world of the White House staff, promising drama, intrigue, and top-notch storytelling. This ad not only sparked excitement for the series but also signaled a shift in how TV dramas were perceived and produced.

Watch the 1999 Commercials

Conclusion

These commercials from my VHS collection are more than just creative ads; they are time capsules that capture the essence of their era. Each one tells a story, evokes nostalgia, and reminds us of the days when commercials were an integral part of our television experience. As we look back, we not only appreciate the creativity of these ads but also the fond memories they bring. So, let's keep rewinding those tapes and reliving the magic of these vintage commercials.