What connects Adolf Hitler, Ian Fleming & James Bond? Author of “D is for Deception”, Tina Rosenberg explains how a true story of Dennis Wheatley, a British spy who was hired to deceive Hitler, was perhaps the inspiration for Ian Fleming, who worked with him during the war, to create the fictional James Bond.
Tree Stories [Article]
The story of the second largest tree in the world.
What can the food industry do? [Video]
A medical doctor was invited to speak at a food conference. And then was dis-invited (if that is a word!). As he says in this video, since he had all the slides ready, why not post it on the Internet, where more people could hear his message? Dr. Yoni Freedhoff exposes the hypocrisy of the food industry. He also has some thoughts for anyone who eats. Definitely worth your time.
The Height of Science [Video]
Rarely do we stop to think of the chaps who repair stuff that’s installed on the top of towers – cellular equipment, tower lights, etc. This video is a great way to see the climb to the top, & the view from the top.
Theremin [Musical instrument]
One TV series that I’ve watched, under duress of course, is Midsomer Murders. The theme music (you can listen to it here) is played on an instrument called the Theremin (if you’re a fan of Big Bang Theory, watch Sheldon annoy his room-mates on the theremin here). & if you’re interested in learning to play the instrument, a new Theremin mini-kit is available for purchase for a meager US$39.99 here!
Throne Table? [Article]
This is a bit over the top for me, but apparently more stuff gets done while you’re on the toilet seat than anywhere else – so says this invention.
Sensory Overload [Article]
What is it to be overloaded with information? or in this instance, for a kid with autism to be overloaded with sound? This animation by Miguel Jiron attempts to shed some light on what an autistic kid feels like.
Bikies & Truckies [Video]
This safety video demonstrates how invisible bike riders really are to a truck driver.
Ask, Why? [Article]
There is nothing more frustrating than coming up with the right answer to the wrong question. This tidbit recommends asking this question more often.
RIP Dave Brubeck [Article]
Dave Brubeck passed away one day before his 92nd birthday, on 6th December 2012. This piece in the NY Times is a wonderful recap of his life. Here’s a delightful video of Brubeck & a young Russian violinist improvising. Addendum: The violinist’s name is Denis Kolobov, & he’s an internationally renowned violinist – watch him here playing Campanella