Clipmarks | Perkalicious11's clips

Make It Work-Work, Make It Work!

Thu, 08 May 2008 15:20:33 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: Hidden functionality on your Canon Point-and-Shoot Digital Camera

If you're using a consumer grade point-and-shoot Canon digital camera, you've got hardware in hand that can support advanced features way beyond what shipped in the box. With the help of a free, open source project called CHDK, you can get features like RAW shooting mode, live RGB histograms, motion-detection, time-lapse, and even games on your existing camera. Let's transform your point-and-shoot into a super camera just by adding a little special sauce to its firmware.

Enhanced Image Capture:

Additional Information On-Screen:

Additional Photographic Settings:

Support for Small Programs/Scripts:

What You'll Need

Automatically Running CHDK

Once you've gotten comfortable with CHDK, you may want it to load automatically whenever you turn on your camera. The CHDK wiki explains how.

Tags: photography, canon, raw, jpg, image, hack, trick, enhancements

10 Myths About Green Living

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 22:47:47 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: each link gives brief supporting information

Clip Source: www.bankrate.com

Sometimes it's difficult separating green facts from green fiction and that often results in inaction. Don't let these 10 myths stop you.

Myth No. 1:	Small changes don't matter.
Myth No. 2:	"Green" choices are painful and expensive.
Myth No. 3:	Keeping old appliances is "greener" than buying new.
Myth No. 4:	The U.S. needs more power plants for energy needs.
Myth No. 5:	The cost of your commute is a fixed expense.
Myth No. 6:	At the grocery store, eco-friendly options are expensive.
Myth No. 7:	If an appliance is off, it's not using power.
Myth No. 8:	Hybrid vehicles are automatically better than nonhybrids.
Myth No. 9:	There are millions of vehicles running on ethanol.
Myth No. 10:	There's only one "right" answer to your eco-dilemma.

Tags: sustainable living, green, lifestyle, myths, facts, tips

Greening the Not-So-New House

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:15:21 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: Happy Earth Day!

tips with varying costs and payoffs. See original article for classifications.

Clip Source: www.greenhomeguide.org

45 tips to green any home, rent or own

you don’thave to buildfrom scratch to turn your not-so-newhouse into a dwelling that’s eco-friendly and more economical to run

cleaning your clothes dryer’s lint trap before every load

using human-powered appliances

washing full loads instead of partial loads

washing and rinsing clothes in cold water

turn off computers and peripherals at night

Recycle your old cell phones

Think globally, buy locally

Nix the night lights

try not to overdry your clothes

composting food scraps

install weatherstripping

sell or Freecycle

use your bathroom and kitchen ventilation fans

programmable thermostat

Audit it

Check out great bamboo alternatives for floors, cabinets, built-ins and furniture

Energy Star-qualified appliances

Plant deciduous trees

Solar-powered attic fans

beefing up insulation

choose double-pane windows

Radiant floor heating systems

living roofs

Harvest the sun

Solar electric systems can offset some or all of your home’s electricity use

install dimmer switches

Tags: home improvement, construction, renovation, green, sustainable living, tips, earth, planet

Wal-Mart Going Green

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:59:30 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: who would have thought this retail giant gave a damn?

Clip Source: greensource.construction.com

Wal-Mart committed to efficiency benchmarks for new and existing stores and on-site renewable power installations.

These stores feature integrated hydronic heating and cooling systems and use recovered heat from refrigeration to heat domestic water for the restrooms and kitchen areas

A daylight-harvesting system equipped with sensors dims lights

motion sensors turn on the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the stores’ refrigerated cases when a customer approaches

Wal-Mart is opening the second generation of high-efficiency stores

The first of these, opened in January 2008 in Romeoville, Illinois, is expected to be 25% more energy efficient than a conventional store

Wal-Mart works with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to offset each acre it develops by providing funding for wildlife preservation programs

For more information:

Wal-Mart Sustainability Report
www.walmartstores.com/sustainability/

Wal-Mart High-Efficiency Stores
www.walmartfacts.com (click on “Sustainability”)

Tags: wal-mart, green, retail, sustainable living, shopping, efficiency

Technological Advances --> Sustainable Living Made Easier

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:42:55 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: a great example of how the increased technological assistance can help in designing the greenest buildings possible.

The whole article (a bit long) is amazing!

Clip Source: continuingeducation.construction.com

Evolving software for modeling energy dynamics makes it easier for architects and engineers to design green buildings

Architects have long relied on engineers to perform the complex energy consumption estimations and select mechanical systems. This reliance is now transforming into collaboration as engineers are being invited into early design phases to help the team with decisions about orientation and massing

Simulation software supplies a nuanced view of a building’s dynamic thermal performance that enables engineers to select and size equipment that is smarter, smaller, and often less expensive than the norm

Optimizing building performance can often result in significant construction cost savings due to smaller systems and mechanical rooms.

Tags: green, building, engineering, architecture, construction, sustainable living, earth

Greenify Your Mass Transit...and Upgrade Too!

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 06:01:18 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: this could definitely be a draw for our increasingly technological generation while reducing our carbon footprint

Clip Source: www.treehugger.com

"No one wants to pay for public transportation, because they think only the poor use it."

like any business, if you provide good customer service you attract a customer base.

In San Francisco they are trying out the connected bus, a hybrid with high speed internet, live updates with route information and wait times at the bus stops, and a "green Gauge" describing the environmental impact of the bus.

What transit customers want the most is consistent, reliable service,

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, which launched the one-year trial in February

MUNI also promises better maintenance, enhanced rider experience, reduced waiting time and enhanced safety and security

Tags: green, bus, transit, wi-fi, san francisco

Drinking Green Isn't Just For St. Patty's Day...

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 05:55:38 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: baby steps towards a better earth

Clip Source: ecoscraps.com

Parducci Wine Cellars announces the company’s conversion to 100% solar and wind power becoming the nation’s first carbon neutral winery.

Clip Source: ecoscraps.com

One Comment

Megan said on April 14th, 2008 at 6:09 pm

Why does it not surprise me that this winery is in my own Mendocino county? Seems like I’m in the right place for green drinks! There’s also a solar-powered brewery and several other organic wineries in the area.

Tags: green, wine, winery, parducci, alternative energy

Postage Rates to Increase 12 May 2008

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:56:31 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: It makes sense, but if they keep rising I'm guessing we'll have more and more people turning to electronic payment.

Clip Source: www.digitaljournal.com

US Postage Stamps to cost a penny more

Beginning May 12, 2008, the cost of a U.S. first class stamp will rise to 42 cents. The price of Forever stamp will also increase by one cent, but existing Forever stamps can be used without paying more.

The price of the Forever stamp will also increase by one cent. But previously purchased stamps will still be usable without having to pay more.

due to the changes in the law the USPS can increase rates depending upon the rate of inflation.

The USPS will adjust the rates annually each May.

For every additional ounce of weight, the rate increases by 17 cents, same as before.

• The cost to mail a post card will also go up a penny, to 27 cents
• Large envelope, 2 ounces, $1, up 3 cents.
• Money Orders up to $500, $1.05, unchanged.
• Certified mail, $2.70, up 5 cents.
• First-class international letter to Canada or Mexico, 72 cents, up 3 cents.

• First-class international letter to other countries, 94 cents, up 4 cents.

Tags: postage, money, usps, mail, postcard, letter, send, communication

Bye Bye Tripod!

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 14:55:23 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: so simple it's revolutionary!

Clip Source: www.xs4all.nl

The string will of course not totally replace a real tripod. But it can give you just that extra stop. This is the luxury model. - Thanks John for modifying the 1/4 bolt. The basic model is a simple piece of string with just a loop at each end. Put one loop around your camera and put your foot in the other. If you pull it tight, you win up to three stops.
Cheaper than IS and so low-tech that it exists almost as long as photography itself.
Now I think of it: did anyone ever try to shoot a gun with this as a stabilizer?

The one on the right is the one I always have in my bag. Even with a 300mm it can give me 2 stops extra.That may just save my day.

Dutch star photojournalist Theo van Houts once used a contraption like this to capture a candid shot of the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm. (He did not invent it, as the article in Dutch suggests.)

If You Must Eat Fast Food...

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 19:53:35 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11

Clip Source: www.bottomlinesecrets.com

ven though most fast food is bad for your health because of its high-fat, high-calorie and high-salt content, there are ways to eat a relatively healthful meal at a fast-food restaurant -- if you know a few tricks.

TRAP 1. Chicken meals.

Chicken is frequently touted as a healthful alternative to beef -- but beware of the preparation method.

TRAP 2. Salad dressing.

The salad dressing used on a fast-food salad can add more calories than most people realize.

TRAP 3. Calories from cheese.

Solution: Order items from Taco Bell “fresco” style

TRAP 4. No vegetables.

OTHER DEFENSE STRATEGIES...

Downsize, don’t supersize.

order a child’s meal

Give up -- or cut back -- on soft drinks.

you can lose at least half a pound a week by simply drinking water, seltzer or unsweetened iced tea

Caution: Avoid diet soda. It can trigger sugar cravings.

OTHER SMART PICKS

Ruby Tuesday’s “Smart Eating” menu

P.F. Chang’s standard vegetarian menu

Applebee’s Teriyaki Steak ’n Shrimp Skewers with Rice Pilaf and Vegetables

Tags: food, diet, eating, health, lifestyle, ideas, portion

Allison in Photos by Jack Radcliffe

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:46:21 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11

Clip Source: www.behance.net

When my daughter Alison was born, in the tradition of a new parent, I began to photograph her, initially in a separate and private body of work. However, in the process of documenting Alison's growth, I developed a passionate interest in human relationships and capturing intimate moments in the lives of family and friends.

My photographs of Alison, because of the nature of our relationship, are very much a father-daughter collaboration-Alison permitting me access to private moments of our life, which might, under different circumstances, be off-limits to a parent. The camera, early in her life, became part of our relationship, necessitating in me an acceptance, a quietness. We've never had long photographic sessions, but rather moments alone or with friends.

I realize as I look at them, that I created a visual life story of Alison, capturing moments in her metamorphosis from infant to woman-her relationships with friends, her rebellion, and underlying it all, her relationship with me

Tags: photography, photos, youth, daughter, father, life, story

New Scams

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 19:27:31 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11

Clip Source: www.bottomlinesecrets.com

creative new ways to scam unsuspecting people out of their money

GIFT CARD FRAUD

Lesson: In any store, don't buy the gift cards displayed on store racks. Ask at the customer service desk whether there are any cards kept behind the counter

LATEST LOTTERY CON

Lesson: Be suspicious whenever you're asked for money, even if you have already been paid a larger amount in the form of a check. It can take many weeks for a bank to determine whether a foreign or cashier's check is valid.

ON-LINE DATING

Lesson: A con artist might spend months building rapport on-line before asking for a dime. Even if you think you know this person well, consider that you really don't know anyone from your communications over the Internet -- you just know the way he/she chooses to present himself in E-mail.

HIT MAN CON

Lesson: Con men know that making victims fear for their lives is a great way to encourage them to hand over their money. Good con artists learn a few details about their intended victims

Tags: scam, money, gifts, con, fraud

Top 10 Food & Drink Hacks

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:24:50 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11

Clip Source: lifehacker.com

the top 10 most clever, interesting, fun, and useful food hacks of them all

10. Close chip bags without the clip

9. Turn a CD spindle into a bagel tote

8. Master the art of cutting a mango

7. Clean ANYTHING with vinegar

6. Bake no-knead bread

5. Build a fire with chocolate and Coke

4. Make clear ice cubes

3. Avoid crying while chopping onions

2. Chill a Coke in two minutes

works for that bottle of white wine you need chilled fast, too.

1. Open a beer bottle with a piece of paper

We didn't even get to de-stemming strawberries with a straw, keeping crystals off your ice cream with plastic wrap, making omelets in a bag, or keeping cookies fresh with bread.

What are your favorite food and drink hacks? Let us know in the comments.

How to Photograph the Holidays

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 16:59:58 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: Makes me want to go home and break out the camera!

Clip Source: photojojo.com

You’ve decked the halls with miles of tiny bulbs. Your front lawn is a gleaming monument to electric lighting. Even the neighbors have taken to wearing sunglasses 24/7.

It’s the Christmas wonderland of your dreams… now if only you could get a good picture of it.

Photographing holiday lights is no easy task.

Luckily, we’ve had the Photojojo elves round up the best tips and guides to taking successful Holiday photos. Call it our gift to you… now go make Clark W. Griswold proud.

Christmas Lights Photography Video Tutorial

How to Take Great Photos of Holiday Lights

Photographing Christmas Trees and Lights

20 Christmas Light Photos - With a Twist

How to Photograph Ornaments

The Flickr “Christmas Lights” Group
Got the most perfect Christmas lights shot ever taken? Upload it to the Flickr Christmas lights group and show it off!

Tags: christmas, holidays, lights, photography, pictures, photo, how to, decorations, camera

6 Ways Men Can Make Their Marriages Much Happier

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 20:43:57 GMT

clipped by: Perkalicious11
clipper's remarks: women can learn from this one too

Clip Source: www.bottomlinesecrets.com

1. Treat your wife like a business client.

you would try to understand who your client is, what his goals are and how you can help him succeed.

2. Forget the golden rule.

you might just have to stop doing things that you would appreciate if someone did them for you and start doing things she will appreciate.

3. Do more than say "I'm sorry."

It will most likely take five positive interactions for every negative one before you're back to par.

marriages tend to be happy when spouses -- wives as well as husbands -- interact with each other in a positive manner at least five times as often as they interact in a negative manner.

4. Master the makeup.

Wait until you cool down -- that typically takes about 20 minutes -- then make a peace offering.

5. Seek your wife's opinion.

seek your wife's approval on your ideas, even when you believe you're right.

6. Do some cleaning.

figure out which household task is her least favorite and do it without being asked.

Tags: marriage, happiness, tips