Thursday, June 9, 2016

the Rio Olympic Torch

Summer is always a time of both full days and nights. Much planned and even more that will be missed. The Olympics are on my radar but I have not given them much thought as they loom upon us. I do know they are being hosted in Brazil. And I am also aware of some of the chaos that is precluding them. Political impeachments. Building and transit infrastructures that are not complete or on track to be finished in time.

As I see each Olympic event dazzle and impress more than the last, I wonder if maybe we have set the bar so high that it becomes impossible to achieve. I am not sure if this is just the result of technology and culture. Or an unnecessary competition from one country to the next to out-do the former host. I know Minneapolis is gearing up for a Super Bowl in 2 years and already the buzz of hotel and event construction is at a fever pitch. And this for a single Day event. So I have no idea how Rio 2016 will stack up.

BUT, I have seen plans for the Torch and what they are calling the Solar City Tower. It is built on an island overlooking the city and is a beacon much like the Statue of Liberty in the harbor. 
  • It is over 100 meters tall.
  • It is a waterfall.
  • It is an observation tower.
  • It is solar powered and will generate electricity for the entire Olympic Village.
  • It is a bungee jumping tower.
  • It has an amphitheater and an auditorium.
It is also beyond amazing. Just the views itself practically make it the next world wonder. Look at the pictures yourself.




Thursday, June 2, 2016

Mystery Boxes

Evryone should be well aware that I am person intrigued by problem solving. of course the usual crossword, but even more so geocaching, treasure hunts, jigsaw puzzles and anything inquisitive. The mystery becomes almost an addiction to solve.

So I was tipped off to this new crowdfunding for a new item called Mystery Cases by a company called Armchair Detective. I myself like something that is physical. But this is for those that like to sit and ponder a solver. It is kind of like a Russian doll with a box inside a box inside a box. And you keep using clues and riddles that will eventually take you further into the Pandora's Box. No idea how much they would cost, but sounds like they could be a winter diversion.