Latest Posts

Summer 2010: What’s In The Works

June 1, 2010

Considering the things I’m doing this summer, I suppose I’d be remiss if I didn’t keep the online world up-to-date through my blog. Since Twitter’s popularity has increased, I’ve used my blog less and less. Interesting how that happens.

I’m currently down in Harrisonburg, where I’ve been working two jobs for SMAD throughout Maymester. Maymester – for those not versed in all-things JMU – is a four-week class session where students may take one or two classes. The workload is much more intense, but it’s a great way to stay in town a bit longer, and earn class credit …


Perspectives: Dr. Wright Writes Back

April 23, 2010

Following my email sent on Wednesday regarding Springfest, I was very impressed to see Dr. Wright reply back by 9:20 that evening. I’m pleased with his response – generally – and will likely reply later today as a follow-up.
Dear Mr. Thiewes:

First, let me say that your letter is elegant and compelling. I hope you are receiving an A in the class.

Second, I hope my response is coherent, because I’ve spend eight hours on the road today. However, I felt you deserved a response this evening.

Third, I write this knowing you may share it with your class. …


My Perspective on the “Faculty Perspective”

April 21, 2010

Following the events of April 10 and “Springfest” at JMU, our award-winning newspaper has been chock-full of great content. Guest editorials are rampant – one such editorial comes from a WRTC professor, Dr. Kenneth Wright. Read the full editorial by clicking here.

Dr. Wright makes several blanket claims that frankly, are disappointing. While I understand his perspective, his bold statements come across as somewhat immature. As one classmate said, it’s as though he’s a parent that pulled the “ungrateful card” on their child. Following round-two of some intensely intelligent discussion in one of my classes, I felt compelled to …


So Remember When We Were Driving

March 7, 2010

driving in your car, speed so fast I felt like I was drunk?

Well we weren’t drunk, but this weekend was full of driving and great music. Joey, Chad and I packed up and left Harrisonburg on Saturday morning. Chad and I dropped the top on the Miata and relentlessly began the pursuit of Joey’s M3. The intended route was to take I-81 south to Buena Vista, then hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway from there. Well, the Parkway was closed due to icing. So, we took Route 11 and got on the Parkway further south. Drove into Roanoke and met …


Jeff’s E34: Not Busted, Less of a Pile

January 26, 2010

The first post about Jeff’s E34 left us with a mildly improved, but still rough, engine and idle. The door pull cable was still in shambles and both windows on the driver’s side didn’t work. Thankfully, we have made some progress.

In driving the car around town, I noticed the idle getting progressively lumpier. Acceleration was taking a similar hit – the car felt like VTEC was kicking in and was surging badly. Yes, the M50 motor in the car does have Vanos (BMW’s term for variable valve timing) but the variances should not be noticeable to the driver. This was …


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