About Me

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Spend five minutes with me and you'll figure out I'm a nerd.

I've probably been a nerd all my life. I've been a nerd long enough that I even had a phase where I tried to hide what a nerd I am. That all changed around the year 2000 when I discovered HTML and CSS; I've been consumed with markup fever ever since.

I like HTML and CSS for the same reasons I like Lego: Even though there are blueprints and regulations you still get to build your own world, piece by piece. Another great thing about Lego, HTML and CSS is discoverability. When you see an awesome construction you first take the time to run your fingers all over it to admire it and when you are done, you can take it all apart to see how it works.

The best thing about being a web developer isn't figuring out how things work but how closely you get to be part of the communication experience. Some of the best time I have with HTML is when I get to figure out what the meaning and intent of the text is and what I can do to convey that meaning as best I can with proper markup.

If you don't know me well or need a list of things you want to talk to me about here it is:

Languages:

  • German
  • Arabic
  • English

My most proficient communication takes place in English, whether written, spoken or read, as it has been the language I use at work and school for the last ten years. German is my first language and after moving to Palestine I learned Arabic, which became my primary language until matriculation.

Computer Related

I know enough about the following to be dangerous:

  • PHP
  • C++
  • JavaScript

I know enough about the following to be able to teach:

  • XHTML/HTML
  • CSS

I've used several Content Management Systems:

  • Drupal
  • WordPress
  • pMachine

I'm really digging learning jQuery.

I have been a Linux user for eight years now and I competent to be a junior-level system administrator. I used to know how to administrate Microsoft Windows but I am only competent to be an advanced user at this stage. Open Source issues and technologies I keep close watch on:

  • KDE
  • X.org Window System
  • Kubuntu
  • Apache HTTPD

Cultural Competencies

Any student of communication is well-served to become competent in several cultures. You won't be embarrassed by me if I accompany you into the following cultural contexts:

  • Muslim
  • Arab
  • Jewish
  • Christian
  • LGBT/Queerspawn

Politics and Economics

In order to better understand the world around me I feel compelled to keep up with political issues. My strengths are in the following areas:

I can lecture on: The Palestinian-Israeli conflict: History and Current Issues

I can speak with confidence on:

  • Europe: History, Political Development and Culture
  • Arab World: History, Political Development and Culture
  • Spanish Civil War

I make a good conversation partner on:

  • Ancient Greece: Pericles to Alexander the Great
  • Rome: Republic and Empire
  • The development of civil society
  • Evolutionary origins of contemporary human development