Link Love

Ran across a few interesting links I think you might enjoy as you contemplate the wonder that is Friday.

• Now, about that cover… is a post from the author of the book by the same name, and it deals with how the quite striking cover of his book came to be. The photo shown on the front cover depicts a book that has been soaked in water and the pages arranged into a striking organic shape. This technique is the brainchild of Houston-based photographer Cara Barer, who is quick to point out that no valuable books are harmed in the making of her pictures.I feel compelled to note that my wife has at times created this effect by nodding off in the bathtub with book in hand.
• And speaking of bending paper to your will, check out these amazing origami creations by Won Park. Given the value of the dollar lately, this is as good a use as any for a bill.
• I’m a sucker for panoramic photography, because I can’t figure out how to do it myself. Here’s a great example, taken at Shoshone Point in the Grand Canyon National Park. If you have a fast internet connection and faster computer, click the “full screen” link to get the full vertigo-inducing effect.
• And, last but not least, I was happy to see that Texas Governor Rick Perry garnered Bicycling Magazine‘s “Wheelsucker of the Month” award for his veto of the Safe Passing bill at the end of the last legislative session. Perry claims to be a cyclist, and, indeed, recently injured himself during a ride, so you’d think he’d have more empathy. But he’s a politician first and foremost, and thus can’t be counted on to do the right thing. Anyway, BikeTexas, the state’s cycling advocacy group, has an online petition urging passage of the bill (while simultaneously expressing displeasure at the veto). If you’re a Texas cyclist, pedestrian, farm equipment operator, or “concerned motorist” (which should pretty much encompass all of us), please consider dropping by to sign the petition. It may not accomplish anything more than making me feel better, but this is, after all, all about me.