Last week, Spot the Dogference  came online as a public beta. Time to write a blog post about this project I worked on during my internship at Almer/Blank.

What is this game?

Spot the Dogference is an online game of spot the difference featuring pictures of dogs. It has 3 levels and one bonus level. You can share your score on twitter and it will be displayed on the spot the dogference website.

The game itself is built in Actionscript 3 with the pureMVC framework. It uses MocciAds and the Twitter API from Sandro (SWFJunkie)
I contributed in some parts to this game which was originally build by different developers from Almer/Blank.

Play it now

My talk about MojoFont at L.A. Flex User Group

Unfortunately the picture quality is not really good but if you want to know more about Font Embedding with MojoFont read my post about Font Embedding in Actionscript 3.

My second project from the time of my internship which i want to show you is the Almer Blank Labs. This project is currently online and can be seen at labs.almerblank.com. I designed and developed the WordPress Theme. The design goal for me was to create a design which is clean but also gives the impression of a lab. It should show what we guys at Almer/Blank do or what we look at. The posts get syndicated from different employee blogs and I had to make sure that the pictures and other formatting stuff from other sites work on our site.

My main work on this project was to create the design, build it into HTML and CSS and write the necessary changes in PHP. During this process I tried to optimize the site for search engines and diffrent devices. If you visit the blog on a mobile device like an iPhone or any Android Phone you will see a different, for small screens optimized version of the blog.

labs.almerblank.com on my HTC Hero

After being here in Los Angeles for about 7 months I think its time to show you some of the projects I worked on. The first project I want to show you is St Moritz TV.

What is this project?
The website www.StMoritzTV.ch is a Web TV station with short videos about St. Moritz and the Engadine. The main goal of the website is to inform tourists and locals about events, art, dinning and shopping in St Moritz and its surroundings.

What was the goal?
The current version is a Beta site. Its focus is to see what the needs of the users are and how we can build the final version and what we have to improve. Because this is a Beta site we are asking for any feedback about the site and would highly appreciate if as many of you can try it and give us a  feedback. We want to find out how we can make it most enjoyable for its user.

But hey, let’s get geeky :)

What technology did I use?

Video player with Open Source Media Framework:

The player is built with the Adobes Open Source Media Framework. We had to add some functionality into the player as the version we used didn’t have all functions we needed by the time we developed it. For example we had to build in a video time calculator and a function to read the source for the videos from the XML. Furthermore I had to implement a function to allow jumping to a requested video. For this I used external interface in actionscript to send data into the player from the html page. In this way I do not have to reload the website again if a new video should be played. Of course the play-list is continuously loading the next video as soon as the current video finished playing.

Next Up
The “NextUp” area is build with flash and reads the same XML as the video player. Every time a new video starts to play the video player calls a Javascript function in the html site. This Javascript function send the current played video into the NextUp flash file where I update the view class. If one of the nodes will be pressed in the “Nextup”, it calls a Javascript function too and sends the requested video to the video player.

HTML, CSS and Javascript
I created, based on the delivered design by Almer/Blank, the HTML and CSS part of the website. Different Javascript functions are responsible for handling the requested videos and advertisement .

Web hosting
The current version of StMoritzTV is hosted byCubera Solutions GmbH. Hosting on a Swiss web hosting company helps us to keep ping time low and provides us with a reliable service.
Happy testing :)

My solution was to use this:

#parent{
width:50px;
}
#parent img{
max-width:100%;
height:auto;
}

<div id="parent">
	<img src="http://www.michaelfretz.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/IMG_1794.jpg" alt="Los Angeles" />
</div>

This way of handling this problem doesn’t make the file size smaller but it changes the appearance of the image to the width of the div tag. It might not be the best way to do it but it’s a quick and dirty way which might help you.

The final result of this script is a picture, which is only 50px wide instead of 580px.
The only disadvantage is that the file size of the image is still the same.

Download the Source Files

What is Adobe MAX? Adobe Max describes them self as following:

We are in a software revolution fueled by social computing, client and cloud, and the spread of rich media across screens and devices. For four unforgettable days this October, MAX 2009 will bring together thousands of designers, developers, and decision-makers to shape the future. (Source max.adobe.com)

My feedback after visiting this event in Downtown Los Angeles.

Adobe MAX is the most expensive event I ever went. Because I could not afford to buy a ticket I signed up as a Teacher Assistant where I got a 50% discount. I had to work in a couple of labs where I mainly helped Designer to build Flashsites or to write a few lines of Actionscript 3 Code.  Lou Barber, in my opinion one of the best Actionscript Teacher I have ever meet, showed in a easy way what Actionscript is and how to write it. I worked three times in his lab and helped the attendees to write their very first program. In times I didn’t had to work and I had the possibility to visit a couple of labs and sessions. The Lab about Adobe Catalyst was very good. We set up a complete Flex Application in only a couple of minutes. I will definitely use Catalyst in the future for my next Flex application. The Session about the Open Media Framework was very interesting and I use it currently at work. During MAX we had party’s at night. One night I had the change to visit the Influxius party. I think nearly all Flash developer where there. :)

Whats new

I‘m sure nearly everybody of you heard that the new Flash IDE will be able to compile Flash projects into iPhone apps. That doesn’t mean that the iPhone will be able to run Flash in the browser (unlike other phones). It only means that the flash movie or the Flash program will be compiled as an iPhone Application. I look forward to see this in action. But for me the highlight of the new features was not the Flash to iPhone compiler. In my opinion it was Flash Player 10.1. I really look forward to see this plug-in on all Android Mobile Phones and other mobile devices. As far as they said it will be able to run Flash projects on Mobile devices a lot faster.

If you could not attend to Adobe MAX you can find many sessions online. http://tv.adobe.com/

On Sunday, October 4th, I had the change to visit a workshop about the Ribbit mobile service at the Rich Media Institute in Venice. I could see some examples how to build a Text message application in Flex or Flash and saw different ways to build a phone application. The combination between Actionscript 3 and a telephone system is quite interesting and I see a great potential in it.

The only problem with Ribbit is that they currently only in the USA operate. As soon as they will have other branches in Europe it could be a very interesting alternative to other VOIP systems because it can be build in Flash and integrated in many devices and websites. Ribbit offers many possibilities like Google Voice. A message to Text function is currently one of the coolest feature they have and I look forward to see whats the new version is going to bring.

If you think Ribbit might be a solution for you, contact me. I would like to build a Ribbit application.

Marcel, my friend from the Swiss flash user group stayed in the hotel Standart. This hotel is a fancy and modern place but it is also very expensive. But the cool thing at this hotel is that they have a bar on the roof of their hotel. Together with Marcel we enjoyed the good view with a couple of beers. The night was long and when the bar closed, the party continued in someones room in the hotel.

Last Sunday morning I went for a walk in the city. The high buildings in Downtown are very impressing. I visited the Walth Disney Townhall and other places of interest. The first impression of downtown is a bit depressing. The city center looks dark and dirty. Everything is grey and there‘s a lot of homeless people on the street. But I still enjoyed it a lot. With this post I would love to share some photos I took in Los Angeles.

Object Pool Example

Sound analyzer.
Press on the Speaker to turn on the sound.

Music by Ratatat

More information about the HYPE Framework on

http://hype.joshuadavis.com

LAFlashapaloozastock IV is a FREE event for interactive designers, developers, artists, companies and the people that enjoying hanging with. This year is scheduled to be the biggest event so far, as a pre-MAX 09 “free festival”:

* Top Studios set up booths to interview, meet and greet the community.
* Amazing presentations by top industry talent
* Job Stock helps the regional industry and community by matching prospective employers with the talent they need.
* Budding Talent – encourages college students and recent grads to demonstrate their skills and portfolios, to help them find entry level positions in the industry.
* Raffle – still unconfirmed, past years prizes included the new Adobe Creative Suite, Nintendo Wii, and books from Friends of Ed.
* Street Party a celebration of art music and creativity featuring one of a kind entertainment, art showcases, delicious food, and live music & dancing.

A quick rundown

* Event: LAFLPS IV
* Date: Saturday Oct 3rd, 2009
* Time: 10:30am – midnight
* Location: Almer/Blank – LA Flash Factory
* Address: 525 Venezia Avenue, Venice CA 90291
* Description: A free event for interactive designers, developers, artists, companies and the people that enjoying hanging with– top studios hiring, amazing workshops, raffles, and street party/mixer.
* Parking: Venice Blvd/ Abbot Kinney South

Why the name? And whats the History?
Los Angeles + Flash + LaLaPalooza + Wood Stock + Venice Beach + Free Cool Stuff = LAFlashapaloozastock

So…. it’s a yearly conference, festival, job placement , showcase, mixer and party. Back in 2005, after going through a full keg, the event ended with an infamous Frisbee war (on the day before the Anaheim MAX)! In 2007, we chilled in the patio eating freshly made tacos and watching exotic fire dances. In 2008, attendees saw GMUNK, Ralph Hauwert, Lee Brimelow and Brandon Hall present and made many networks during our mixers in between talks.

In other words, LAFlashapaloozastock IV will ROCK to the top of Mt. Fuji! We’ve got Flash gods, jobs, food, music, liquor, art, and free stuff (and not to mention all the hot peeps from Venice).
Who goes to this event?

Flash Designer, Flash Developers, Motion Graphic Artists, Digital Artists and anyone in or having an interest in Flash and digital media. From our technical presentations for the beginner, the intermediate, and the super advanced, to the inspirational creative sessions, there is always something to choose from.

Source: flashapalooza.com

Dates: October 1st – October 2nd, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (~8 classroom hours a day)
Instructor: Josh Davis
Price: $499 / $199 Students
Max Students: 35
Location: Rich Media Institute – Los Angeles – 525 Venezia Avenue, Venice, California,

http://www.richmediainstitute.com/getcreativevb

Last Saturday was “Talk like a pirate day”. I passed the Irish pub on the way home from the beach. Some pirates asked me to join the party. It was really good fun and I meet a few very friendly people. I really enjoyed it and I hope I can meet some of them again.

On Sunday I took a bike ride to Santa Monica. At the end of the 4th street I could enjoy a good view to the beach and the surroundings. There are famous stairs there. I was quite amazed how many people were running up and down.

Lesson 5: You don’t need a gym to do sport. Stairs will do the job too. :)

New Technical stuff I learned
The last couple of days I tried to get into pureMVC and AMFPHP. Both Frameworks are really helpful. I hope I will be able to show pretty soon a first prototype of a current project. I will explain more as soon as I can.

Lesson 3: Starting a new life in the California is not a piece of cake!

What happen the last few days?

Last Wednesday I went to the Flex User Group meeting in Santa Monica. I asked my colleagues from work but nobody had any interests in joining me. So i took my bike and drove there. It took me nearly one hour but it was worth it. I met really nice people and had the opportunity to listen to a very interesting speech about the new Flex 4 skinning possibilities. The Flex User Group meeting provided free pizza. Compared to the Swiss User Group meeting there was no beer. :-) After the talk from Tom, we talked a bit before I went back home. It was good and I willdefinitely join them again.

It happened! I always say to everybody: “make a backup”! Backup is the most important thing! And me? Backup? Probably I have a backup from everything but mobile phone. And it happened. My mobile phone broke down. It’s not even possible to start it again. I can not connect it to my computer.. Nothing. All data is gone. If you read this and you know me, send me your contact details.

Lesson 4: Always backup!!!!

Anyway, to make sure I can get contacted, I bought a new phone. Its a cheap SAMSUNG phone. There is not even vibra inside. Unfortunately I can not use my Swiss number with it. I will need to organize a new phone from Switzerland.

Work changed a bit. It got a bit stressful. Currently I work on a few different project. I do a lot of Web design stuff, a bit Flash and also XML based work. It’s challenging but I like it a lot. In my spare time I develop a little project. I will show it to you as soon as I have a running prototype.

You may ask how my work life is. To be honest it’s different to what I expected it to be. So far I do exactly the same as I do during school. I do research, research, and research. Sometimes, when I don’t do research I water the plants or spray new names on the parking slot name signs. I am the intern as you can see… But I still love it and I really hope I can start programming soon. The building of the office is really cool. It is more like an garage then an Office. I really like the way the office is build. It gives it a more industrial and easygoing touch. My co-workers are all very friendly. I even got a new flat and a bike through them. We have quite a few graphic designers, motion specialists, programmers and team leaders here. Working hours are different too. Usually I start at 9.30am and need to be there till 6.30pm but it seems to be quite common to leave the office after 8pm.

My life back home will change a bit. I will move to another place in the next few days or weeks. I will then have my “own” flat without animals but with a small office of two guys (one is from our office). Looking forward to move there because I can save some money as the new flat is cheaper. The location is not as good as it is now. I will probably not walk to the beach anymore. (walking will be around 1h).

Because I didn’t had to work on the weekend, I took my new bike, fixed the breaks and drove down to the beach. I wanted to drive to Malibu, or at least into this direction. I didn’t made it, Los Angeles is HUGE! I rode my new bike 2-3 hours in one direction and I was hardly moving on the map. I need a car! :)

Lesson 2: Los Angeles is unbelievable huge

On my way back to Venice I stopped in Santa Monica. Santa Monica is so far the best place I’ve visited in California and I really like it. Santa Monica remind me a lot of Australia. There are many shops and bars… I will definitely go again to Santa Monica.

On Sunday afternoon I went to the beach. Some guys asked me to play dogeball so I did. My team players, random picked people at the beach, and me had good fun and I look forward to play again. But for the next few days I will try to play beach-volleyball. It shouldn’t really be a problem because there are hunderts of people playing.

more Photos

What happened back home. I still live with my roommates in the small house in Venice. The dogs are now used to me and do not bark anymore when I pass them or enter the house. Amaya, the owner of the house is a belly dance instructor. Nearly everyday she holds classes in the dance room. My room mates are very friendly. They are very much into pets. As many of you know I’m not but I got used to the cats at my girlfriends flat. :-) But as you know, dogs aren’t cats and smell different. *no comment* Unfortunately the rent is quite expensive and I will need to look for a cheaper place in order to have enough money to pay my time in Venice. Another reason for looking for another flat is that my girlfriend will come to Venice in order to learn English. A colleague from work is helping me looking. Anyway, as long as I stay there I enjoy my breakfast in the garden. I usually sit in a small mosquito tent and have a cup of coffee and some Nutella toast and a fruit (orange).

Shopping in the Venice is different to shopping back home. The first supermarket I went to was full with junk food, lemonades and sweets. But I only wanted to buy a salad. There was no salad. I might should go back to this supermarket to take a photo. Without a salad but with an orange (the ones I eat for breakfast) I left the supermarket. At least they had one healthy thing there. It looked like I choose the wrong supermarket.
Next day I tried a different shop. This time I found my beloved salad but the price was a bit shocking, a salad is nearly double the price of a salad back home.
Lesson 1 for living in the USA: Healthy food is expensive!

Whats the worst thing which can happen if you start a new job. I guess I just had such an experience. I arrived on time at Almer / Blank and had a warm welcome with my new colleagues. But unfortunately I didn’t feel so well. About one hour later, I felt really, really ill and I had to throw up. Fortunately a teammate could drive me home where I tried to recover a bit. I spent the hole day in my bed or at the toilet instead of starting an internship at my new company. :-( I hope I will feel better tomorrow as I really want to go back to work.
I will let you know more about my internship as soon as I’m back on track…

Hi everybody. After flying for ages I landed safely Los Angeles. Passing the customs and immigration took me only 1.5h. :-/ After leaving the airport, I took a shared Taxi to my shared flat in Venice. I live in a small house with a beautiful garden next to a golf course and a playground. The location is good. I can walk to the beach (25min) and to my office (15min). The house is charming and clean and my flatmates are very kind and gave me a warm welcome. Currently there are five pets around. Three cats and two dogs. The dogs scared me a bit in the beginning but they seems to be very well behaved.
In case anybody of you wants to get in contact with me here is my home address:

Michael Fretz
1042  Rose  Ave
Venice 90291

Today I had a brief look at the area I live in. I took the unicycle because its the only transport I have at the moment. I thought, Venice Beach, an arty place in the USA will be used to unicycles but its not. Every time I overtook or passed anybody they started talking to me. It was funny especially the strange people at the beach who tried to sell everything to me. There was even another guy at the beach with an unicycle but he tried to make money with being there with a one wheel bike. Maybe I should do that too.. :-)  Anyway, I enjoyed my  ride along bodybuilder, skateboarder, musicians, dancers, tattoo freaks, rockers, tourists,artists , runners, swimmers and salesman’s. Of course I went for a swim in the sea but the water was actually quite cold. My ride ended in Santa Monica Pier where I turned back to Venice Beach.
At the moment I sit in the beautiful garden from our flat, write this post and will start coding afterwards. Tomorrow I will start my internship at Almer / Blank.

more photos on facebook

The only concern I have now, I NEED A ROOM!!! If anybody knows somebody who can help me, please contact me! I need a clean room near my office!
I’m also happy with just a couch for the first few days so I can sort out things locally..

Thanks for your help

While I stay in Venice, there is Adobe MAX in Los Angeles. A colleague from the Swiss Flash User Group (SFUG) could help me to find a Technical Assistant position. I look forward to help at following BYOL labs:
- Advanced Interaction Design and Designing for Data in Flash Catalyst
- Learning AS3 lab
I looking forward for this well known event.

Of course I will also blog during my time in Venice… Therefore make sure you follow me on twitter or RSS!