random_data v1.5 Released

The random_data gem provides methods for generating random test data including names, mailing addresses, dates, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and text. v1.5 includes a primitive Markov text generator and an array "roulette" function.

Thanks to Hugh Sasse for contributing code for the new features!

SocialDevCampEast #2 recap

SocialDevCampEast #2, held in Baltimore on November 1st, was another great tech event in Baltimore.  The biggest value for me was making and reenforcing weak ties by connecting with people I don't directly work with or socialize with on a daily basis (especially people I only converse with via social media).  For example, I got a chance to meet Adam Boalt and hear him talk about the success of RushMyPassport.com, which is the exact kind of business I'm interested in building in the future (something with online and offline components, and something that is not considered 'sexy' by most of the cognoscenti). 

As far as presentations went, I gave a short version of my SproutCore demo and also led a session about cloud infrastructure (and what's not so great about it).  The best sessions I attended were:

• William Flanagan's venture capital talk
  
• Launching of Baltimore Co-Working initiative
• Twitter Vote Report

Jimmy Gardner posted some great photos that convey the feeling of the event.  Congratulations to Dave Troy and Ann Bernard for another success!