Good

Maywa Denki

A Japanese art-object company that produces toys and music machines. The Cha-Cha wind-up toy makes a happy companion; a few twists and the Cha-Cha starts bobbing up and down, clang-clanging, wagging its tail. Alice welcomes gifts of Maywa Denki products. She would also like to see one of their demos or concerts, but does not know Japanese and cannot afford to move to Japan just yet.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Cancer is far-reaching in its effects on individuals, family, and friends. Support research however you can, and make lives better.

Evil

My Algorithms teacher

The tough-as-nails mathematician who taught my algorithms class is brilliant, but the memory of his course still makes me shudder. Attempting to solve his problem sets was like hitting your head on a brick wall. Despite the endearing story of his son asking "Is it an elephant?" he has struck terror into many students. He also has an Erdös number 1.

The Boohbahs

While the Teletubbies caused me to moan in fear the first time I saw the PBS show, the Boohbahs left me completely speechless. I've gotten more acquainted with the Boohbahs thanks to my niece. The only advantage I'll give the Boohbahs over the Teletubbies is that they don't speak. The giant gumdrop alien creatures are eerie.