The Wild Card Line

"Hal 9000"

2008-11-22T08:50:00.000-08:00

On the day before Halloween, Google shut me down, because "Hal 9000" detected that this blog was a spam blog... It seems like they have let me back on if I fill out the "word verification" do-hickey... This is only a test.

"Live Through This..."

2008-09-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

"Our Lucky Day"

2008-09-15T21:00:00.000-07:00

As Marisol flipped through the air three times, time itself slowed down and she saw her life pass before her eyes as she said the Our Father prayer to herself.

The news reports said it was a "Major Injury Accident" on the 710, one of the worlds most dangerous freeways with all of the semi-trucks coming from the ports of L.A. and Long Beach.

When one of the firemen saw the damage to her overturned car and Marisol's nearly uninjured condition, he said "This is your lucky day, you should buy a lottery ticket."

On the ride home, Marisol said it was a miracle and maybe we should buy a lottery ticket, I said "We don't need to, we already won."

(Image shot with Marisol's camera phone. Click on image to enlarge.)

McCain, Obama & Keith-O The Clown (Intro Sketch)

2008-09-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

(Please Note: I am working on a much larger piece for my magazine Verge of LA. This is just a sketch of the setup/intro that I'm throwing on my goofy blog. Nobody panic. At least not yet!)

We live in a crazy world. Most of us know it. We know there is a Hell on Earth, but we don't really know it. Not like John McCain. We've all gone crazy in our own "room." Usually the door is unlocked or we have the key to let ourselves out. John McCain also went crazy in his "room," but he couldn't just open the door and walk away. All he had to cling to was his religion, his country and mostly his fellow captives.

John McCain has seen the Gates of Hell. He has been broken, he's been humiliated, he survived.

Barack Obama is tripper too. I like the dude, he seems cool. Obama even went to Occidental College, the hip little liberal arts school right in Eagle Rock near where I used to live. One day I was with Marisol at the funky diner, right near the corner of Eagle Rock and Colorado (I can't think of the name). As a mixed-race couple, we noticed, to our astonishment, that there were at least five other multiracial couples eating at the diner all at the same time. We felt like we belonged.

I can tell you that Barack Obama is one of us. More than you may even know.

When I was at North Hollywood High in mid eighties, I remember my dad telling me about the new sportscaster on "channel 2" (as we used to call CBS here in LA). My dad said that the new guy Keith Olbermann is "too smart and funny for local sports, he needs something bigger." I've always listened to my dad when is come to comedians. Growing up he turned me onto early Woody Allen, Saturday Night Live and David Letterman.

Olbermann has been on my radar for nearly 25 years. He has always been a brilliant comedian to me, I've never thought of him as an actual newscaster. In the last two years he has proven that point to the rest of the world.

Sweet Leaf Kisses Mama for Gogol Bordello

2008-08-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

Sweet Leaf tenderly kisses Mama in order to borrow her new Gogol Bordello CD... Shot by Marisol with her camera phone on August 19, 2008 in Beautiful Altadena, California... The Experiment continues...

"The Clam Thrower"

2008-08-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

The following story was in my mind as I threw the clam back into the sea...

Based on The Star Thrower, by Loren Eiseley

Once upon a time, there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work. One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, and so, he walked faster to catch up.

As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a young man, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The young man was reaching down to the shore, picking up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean. He came closer still and called out "Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?"

The young man paused, looked up, and replied "Throwing starfish into the ocean."

"I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?" To this, the young man replied, "The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don't throw them in, they'll die."

Upon hearing this, the wise man commented, "But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can't possibly make a difference!"

At this, the young man bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, he said, "It made a difference for that one."

***

"The Clam Thrower" shot by Marisol in Pismo Beach in the center of the Beautiful Republic of California on Sunday August 17, 2008. Captured with our "point and shoot" ViviCam 5385.

Pismo Beach: "The Morning After (Mr. Wong's Chinese Sunset)"

2008-08-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Sunrise on the balcony of our room at Henry's Kon Tiki Inn overlooking the ocean of Pismo Beach, in the Beautiful Republic of California... Shot August 15, 2008... The Experiment continues...

Pismo Beach: Mr. Wong's Chinese Sunset

2008-08-17T20:22:00.000-07:00

Sunset on the balcony of our room at Henry's Kon Tiki Inn overlooking the ocean of Pismo Beach, in the Beautiful Republic of California... Shot August 14, 2008... The Experiment continues...

"Dr. Sweet Leaf's Secret Pumpkin Patch"

2008-08-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

A very short film about the esteemed Dr. Sweet Leaf's Secret Pumpkin Patch that magically appeared out of his compost pile... Shot Sunday, August 10, 2008 in Beautiful Altadena, California... The Experiment Continues...

Some Kind of Wonderful

2008-07-20T18:49:00.001-07:00

I used to have a mad crush on Mary Stuart Masterson. Mostly because of the movie Some Kind of Wonderful, but also because of At Close Range...

Back to Some Kind of Wonderful, she plays a gorgeous tomboy drummer girl named Watts who is in love with Eric Stoltz's character, but he is in love with the not half as sexy Lea Thomson (who is playing the hottest girl in school!!!)

Anyway, the whole time you watch the movie, you scream inside for Stoltz to go for Watts, which is maybe why the movie really works...

Either way, Mary Stuart Masterson was totally hot in that movie. That's all I have to say...

"Belief and Technique for Modern Prose" by Jack Kerouac

2008-06-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

Originally published in Evergreen Review Vol. 2, No. 8, 1959... Shot by my camera phone... (Click on image to enlarge)

WEC Fans

2008-05-26T13:12:00.000-07:00

On a lazy Memorial Day afternoon, while watching WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting) on a pretty cool channel called Versus, I blurted out: "We should go see the WEC at the Hard Rock in Vegas!"

A few minutes later, Dr. M. stopped the DVR on the above image and said: "Here's what your friends are going to look like when we go see WEC at the Hard Rock in Vegas."

Maybe we'll just watch on Versus.

The Angels of Anaheim

2008-05-24T14:17:00.001-07:00

I shot this one for "John in the UK." Dodger Stadium still kicks Angels Stadium's ass!

Keith Meltsdown into Billo

2008-05-22T23:32:00.000-07:00

During last Tuesday's primary coverage on MSNBC, Keith Olbermann appears to go "Billo" on one of his colleagues. It is just a quick glimpse, so please don't blink...

Originally noticed by "John in the UK" captured with my cell phone on May 20, 2008...

The Video Experiment continues...

A Very Special and Intense Day

2008-04-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a shot I took with my camera phone in the quiet before storm at my gig this morning at the Los Angeles Music Center. The event is called the Very Special Arts Festival. As the name implies, it is a very special and equally intense day with literally thousands of kids gathered together, all with special needs. I'd image that nearly every possible challenge a child can face, from emotional to physical, is represented by the dozens.

It is a day that comes once a year and always gets under my skin for a couple of reasons.

For starters it takes me back in time. I once was a mime, yeah that's right I said mime. It is a long story, for another day, but the bottom line is takes me back, doing something I used to do. I used to teach kids the art of mime. I worked with kids who were both highly gifted and kids who were autistic. I was at my best working with the toughest cases. So the bottom line is, it takes me back.

Next and most complex, it marks the yearly reunion with my main artistic mentor. A brilliant and eccentric artist whose life in SoHo during the 70's and 80's is the stuff of novels. He is also a "Valley Dude."

One time he tried to tell me: "People think creativity springs from limitless choices. No." He said, "Creativity comes from working under extreme limitations." At first I thought he was crazy, but now I know that I was the crazy person.

I only have to think of the sightless girl, who must imagine the world with her hands and ears.

Lastly, it's the kids themselves. On this very special day, they are surrounded by people who don't judge them on their appearance, at least not outwardly. It is one of those days, that you can't show any shock at someones face or body, no matter what you see. Today, one kid's face hit me right in my core. The courage he showed was truly life affirming.

At the gig we mostly create the illusion that we are robots. Many of the kids want to shake our hands to see if we are real. But mostly it seems, they just want shake the hand of someone who isn't afraid to shake their hand.

A very special and intense day.

My Neighbor's Water Slide (The Video)

2008-04-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my neighbor rented an inflatable water slide for his son's birthday. They graciously let me slide down it, twice!...

Shot by Marisol with my Camera phone on April 27, 2008 in beautiful Altadena, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

My Neighbor's Water Slide

2008-04-27T11:12:00.001-07:00

"Podcasting 101" on KCBS with Tim Coyne & Lance Anderson

2008-04-15T23:11:00.000-07:00

KCBS News segment on the fundamentals and history of podcasting, featuring Tim Coyne of The Hollywood Podcast and Lance Anderson of Verge of the Fringe. Reported by Tech Check's Rich DeMuro... Shot on April 14, 2008 by Tim Kimball of KCBS/KCAL at the Verge of LA Studio 101 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California.

KCBS-TV 'Podcasting 101' Sample Post at The Brewery

2008-04-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

From the rooftop patio at The Brewery Art Colony, I shot this little example of how simple it is post something online...

Shot with my camera phone on April 14, 2008 in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

Julie and her Coffee Gallery on YouTube

2008-04-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

While hanging at my local coffeehouse, Julie the owner said she caught one of my other videos on YouTube. So I pulled out my handy camera phone and shot her...

April 3, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues.

"Midnight Express Notes"

2008-04-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a shot of my crazy-ass notes from my most recent podcast called "Midnight Express" (Full Size)

"Slashing Pumpkins: An Ode to Halloween and Compost Piles"

2008-03-30T14:21:00.000-07:00

Five months after Halloween, we finally give a proper burial to our last pumpkin, as I slash it with a shovel in our compost pile...

Shot by Marisol on March 30, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

Cush & Fonz discuss the "Aesthetics" of Porn

2008-03-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

Fonz of TresJefes interviews Cush for their new video podcast. Stealing Erik's light, I capture the guys discussing the finer points of the new trends in "Adult Entertainment"...

Shot March 25, 2008 in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

Jason Tucker before the LA Podcasters' Spring Mixer

2008-03-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

Before the LA Podcasters' Spring Mixer, I grab a quick interview with the "President" of the OC Podcasters, Jason Tucker...

Shot March 25, 2008 in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

That's Alright Mama

2008-03-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

Our cat "Mama" loves three things: The floor heater; when I "sing" to her; and obviously food. Here are two out of three...

Shot March 16, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

(For Cat Lovers Only. Please Be Advised.)

Goofy LA

2008-03-14T17:58:00.001-07:00

I when I caught my goofy reflection in the mirror, I busted out laughing, so I had to shoot a picture... Enjoy the laugh. I know I did!

UFC/MMA Fighter & Photographer Mac Danzig on His First Fight

2008-03-04T14:21:00.000-08:00

UFC/MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, vegan and photographer Mac Danzig talks about his first fight...

Shot February 26, 2008 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California...

The Video Sketch continues...

UFC/MMA Fighter & Photographer Mac Danzig on Why Most Fighters are "Head Cases"

2008-03-03T20:55:00.000-08:00

UFC/MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, vegan and photographer Mac Danzig talks about why most fighters are "head cases"...

Shot February 26, 2008 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California...

The Video Sketch Continues...

UFC/MMA Fighter & Photographer Mac Danzig on Moving to L.A.

2008-03-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

UFC/MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, vegan and photographer Mac Danzig talks about moving to his adopted city...

Shot February 26, 2008 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California...

The Video Sketch Continues...

Chris Matthews' Loving Tribute to William F. Buckley

2008-02-28T17:23:00.000-08:00

My Dad has always enjoyed the mind of William F. Buckley, so in that spirit I present Chris Matthews' loving tribute to the late author and pioneering conservative thinker.

UFC/MMA Fighter & Photographer Mac Danzig Shoots L.A.

2008-02-27T17:23:00.000-08:00

UFC/MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, vegan and photographer Mac Danzig shoots his adopted city from the rooftop patio of the The Brewery...

Shot February 26, 2008 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

UFC/MMA Fighter & Photographer Mac Danzig on Skateboarding

2008-02-26T18:16:00.001-08:00

Mac talks about his days as a skateboarder during my nearly two hour interview with Mac Danzig the UFC/MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, vegan and photographer...

Shot February 26, 2008 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

UFC/MMA Fighter & Photographer Mac Danzig

2008-02-26T17:02:00.001-08:00

A quick video shot after my nearly two hour audio interview with Mac Danzig the UFC/MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, vegan and photographer...

Shot February 26, 2008 at The Brewery Art Colony in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

"Story Salon After the Show"

2008-02-24T14:44:00.000-08:00

After our recent live recording of our latest Story Salon Podcast, I shoot a little candid footage...

Shot February 22, 2008 in Studio City, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

"No Downtown L.A."

2008-02-23T12:58:00.000-08:00

On a cloudy day shot from the upstairs balcony of the Brewery Art Colony, I confirm that L.A. does have a downtown...

Shot February 20, 2008 in Los Angeles, California...

The "Video Sketch Experiment" continues...

MMA Knockout: "Extreme Knee" (Graphic Violence)

2008-02-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

Yves Edwards delivers a crushing knee to the head of Edson Berto during Showtime's EliteXC, MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fight...

Shot February 17, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Pat Buchanan's Classic Zinger"

2008-02-15T17:28:00.000-08:00

During the primary coverage on MSNBC, Rachel Maddow was trying to make a funny point, when Pat Buchanan jumps in with this classic zinger. Plus a cameo by my cat Sweet Leaf...

Shot February 12, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Chris Matthews Goofs on Pat Buchanan"

2008-02-15T14:03:00.000-08:00

During the recent primary/caucus coverage on MSNBC, Chris Matthews zinged Pat Buchanan...

Shot February 12, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues..

"Light and My Shadow Test"

2008-02-11T19:24:00.000-08:00

While in the garage, I play around with light and my shadow...

Shot February 11, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Before Recording at The Studio" (Take 2)

2008-02-11T18:41:00.000-08:00

I try again to capture the "mood" of my studio at The Brewery Art Colony...

Shot February 9, 2008 in Los Angeles, California...

The Experiment continues...

20 Seconds at our "Funny Store"

2008-02-11T15:20:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the pile of cactus leaves (not sure of the proper Spanish term) at our beloved "Funny Store"...

Shot February 10, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Before Recording at The Studio" (Take 1)

2008-02-10T19:00:00.000-08:00

I try to capture the "mood" of my studio at The Brewery Art Colony...

Shot February 9, 2008 in Los Angeles, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Obama Bags on His Cousin Dick"

2008-02-09T22:24:00.000-08:00

Barack Obama bags on his cousin Dick Cheney...

Shot February 9, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Sunset Stone Chimney"

2008-02-08T16:29:00.000-08:00

I try to capture the sunset overlooking the Farnsworth Park Amphitheater. I then turn my goofy Target (HD/Awful Mic) Camera onto the cool stone chimney of our polling place from "Altadena Vote" which featured the fireplace inside...

Shot February 7, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Hillary Clinton's Badass Moment"

2008-02-06T17:55:00.000-08:00

I'm not a fan of Hillary, but she did deliver a near perfect line reading from her Super Tuesday script... Shot February 5, 2008 in Beautiful Altadena, California... The Experiment continues...

"Death by Crow"

2008-02-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

A gang of black crows gather and plan their attack against two hawks gliding in the distance...

Shot February 6, 2008 in Beautiful Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Altadena Vote"

2008-02-05T17:08:00.000-08:00

Our polling location is an authentic mountain lodge in the foothills of Los Angeles. I secretly try to capture the scene with my cell phone...

Shot February 5, 2008 in Beautiful Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

Mitt Romney's New Campaign Slogan: "Experience My Hair"

2008-02-03T13:21:00.000-08:00

Mitt Romney unleashes a new campaign Ad with a fresh new "mussed" hairstyle that rivals John Edwards...

Shot Super Bowl Sunday in Altadena California...

The Experience continues...

20 Seconds of "Marisol at Cobb Estate Gate"

2008-02-01T17:30:00.000-08:00

Just before Marisol took off for her run, I captured 20 seconds at the Cobb Estate Gate with my cell phone...

Shot on February 1, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Why People Don't Like Mitt Romney"

2008-01-30T19:12:00.001-08:00

While watching the Republican Debate tonight, I captured Mitt Romney smirk as John McCain was briefly emotional about soldiers coming home with honor. Focus on Romney...

Shot (with chunky audio) January 30, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Pat Buchanan's Democratic Ad"

2008-01-30T07:22:00.000-08:00

Pat Buchanan is captured by my DVR and cell phone giving the Democrats the upper hand in 2008...

Shot January 29, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"McCain Cracks-up Chris Matthews"

2008-01-28T20:10:00.000-08:00

I capture Senator John McCain making a totally goofy face to bust up Chris Matthews. (It makes me laugh too!)...

Shot with my trusty cell phone on January 28, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Dick Bush Minute"

2008-01-28T18:29:00.000-08:00

With the DVR remote in one hand and my trusty cell phone in the other, I capture this goofy loop from tonight's State of the Union...

Shot January 28, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Romney Dies?"

2008-01-28T15:18:00.000-08:00

With my cell phone, I capture this oddly shot video of Mitt Romney I saw on TV this afternoon... Shot January 28, 2008 in Altadena, California... The Experiment continues...

"Altadena Weather Lesson"

2008-01-28T12:48:00.000-08:00

Living in the foothills of Altadena has helped teach me first hand about weather patterns. With my trusty "Target (HD/ Awful Mic) Camera," I try to capture what I've learned...

Shot January 28, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Capturing a Rainbow"

2008-01-27T16:35:00.000-08:00

You can almost see that I ran outside to try and capture a rainbow with my "Target HD Camera"...

Shot January 27, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Palm Chopper"

2008-01-27T11:12:00.000-08:00

While shooting a test in HD with my little "Target Camera" a very cool shot developed when a helicopter flew overhead...

Shot January 26, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

20 Second near "Eaton Stream"

2008-01-27T09:45:00.000-08:00

On my way home, I pulled off to the side of the road to capture the fog and stream of Eaton Canyon with my cell phone...

Shot January 27, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Hungry Cougar"

2008-01-26T11:07:00.000-08:00

In today's Los Angeles Times there was a story about the local mountain lion that roams our foothills and mountains...

Shot January 26, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

20 Second with the "WGA in the Rain"

2008-01-24T20:19:00.000-08:00

This rainy afternoon I joined the WGA picket line in front of NBC and the Tonight Show...

Shot January 24, 2008 in Burbank, California...

The Experiment continues...

"Snow in Los Angeles"

2008-01-24T16:52:00.000-08:00

After a cold and rainy night in Los Angeles, I step outside the next morning with my trusty "Target camera" and shoot the beautiful snow on our local "Echo Mountain"...

Shot January 24, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

Verge of the Fridge

2008-01-22T16:35:00.001-08:00

I shoot and narrate a look at my old bachelor pad fridge that is covered with pictures and magnets of people and stuff I dig. At one minute 33 seconds this is my "epic" video (so far!)...

"Filmed" on January 22, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

Mama's Sound Check

2008-01-21T19:40:00.000-08:00

Please Note: For cat lovers only. Please be advised...

Our cat Iris (aka "Mama") helps me with a sound check using my new funky little Aiptek...

Shot on January 21, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment Continues...

20 Second of "Dusk Palms"

2008-01-21T18:27:00.000-08:00

A beautiful sunset turns to dusk with a nearly full moon, wispy clouds, palm trees and Echo Mountain...

Shot January 20, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

Sweet Leaf's Video Test

2008-01-21T14:47:00.000-08:00

I use our cat Sweet Leaf for a video test of my new funky little Aiptek that I bought today at Target...

Shot January 21, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

20 Second of the "Sunset and Moon"

2008-01-21T13:33:00.000-08:00

A beautiful sunset with a nearly full moon. With wispy clouds, palm trees and Echo Mountain...

Shot January 20, 2008 in Altadena, California...

The Experiment continues...

20 Second Search for a Mountain Lion

2008-01-20T19:32:00.000-08:00

Marisol and Sue talk about Mountain Lion Sightings in Altadena, California during their Sunday trail run in the Angeles National Forest...

La Canada, California on January 20, 2008...

The Experiment continues...

20 Seconds on the Drive to Angeles Crest

2008-01-20T17:16:00.000-08:00

Marisol captures 20 Seconds of her drive to Angeles Crest for her Sunday trail run...

La Canada, California on January 20, 2008...

The Experiment continues...

20 Seconds at our "Regular" Gas Station

2008-01-20T09:41:00.000-08:00

Marisol uses her cell phone to capture 20 Seconds at our "regular" gas station. I also make a very brief cameo appearance. Don't blink!...

Shot by Marisol in Altadena, California on January 19, 2008...

The Experiment continues...

20 Seconds of Sammy's Birthday Party

2008-01-20T00:54:00.000-08:00

20 second "interview" with Marisol's brother Sammy at his birthday party...

Recorded January 19, 2008 in South Gate, California...

The Experiment continues...

20 Seconds before Saturday Morning Spin

2008-01-19T13:01:00.000-08:00

Actually, an hour before our Saturday morning spinning class, Marisol handed me the phone...

Shot January 19, 2008 in Pasadena, California.

The Experiment continues...

20 Seconds of the Coffee Gallery

2008-01-18T18:31:00.000-08:00

Standing in front of The Coffee Gallery in Altadena, I introduce you to my local hang.

Work in 20 Seconds: "The Studs"

2008-01-17T17:21:00.000-08:00

In the middle of "the stax" I open a box of "studs" from the Buick Motor Division circa 1943.

Work in 20 Seconds: "The Stax"

2008-01-17T16:31:00.001-08:00

I capture 20 seconds at my job with my trusty cell phone. In this "episode" I take you to "the stax" of Vintage Aircraft Engine parts.

The experiment continues...

Winds of Altadena

2008-01-16T17:27:00.000-08:00

I capture the stirring winds with my trusty cell phone. The experiment continues.

This is a test...

2008-01-15T16:02:00.000-08:00

I reached into my pocket and shot an idea with my cell phone.

Cell Phone Cinema presents... "Marisol Attacked by Sasquatch"

2008-01-13T12:31:00.000-08:00

Teaser for a goofy horror film shot and uploaded in one day using only a cell phone camera. The "story" features Marisol and Sue, two trail runners who have a "scary encounter" with the dreaded Sasquatch high up in the Angeles National Forest on Sunday January 13, 2008.... Watch the whole "film" here.

"Hillary Wants You"

2008-01-10T13:53:00.000-08:00

Just before Hillary Clinton's victory speech in New Hampshire, she made several of these goofy "Hey, I know that dude!" gestures. With our handy DVR and my trusty camera phone, I captured this "classic" image.... I think I'll even send it to Drudge.

"Mt. Snow"

2008-01-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

This morning I was "totally jazzed" to see snow (behind the wispy clouds) on the mountains above Altadena. Snow may not seem like a big deal to you, but you have to remember I live in Los Angeles (County)!

Tomorrow morning I'm going to take a hike up to Echo Mountain to look for patches of snow. Needless to say, I'll be taking my trusty camera phone with me. Which of course I used to capture this image while standing in front of the Coffee Gallery, my local hang.

"Goofy Mitt"

2008-01-07T14:47:00.000-08:00

While watching the Republican Debate on Saturday, I paused my DVR on this goofy image of Mitt Romney, which I then shot with my trusty camera phone (man I love that thing!) Anyway, I think Mitt is basically a goofball, so I'm showing him no love.

"Sunset of the Dead"

2008-01-06T16:45:00.001-08:00

I "totally dig" this shot (I'm a Valley Dude, so I can say things like that!) I still can't believe what I can capture with my goofy camera phone.

"Gothic Float"

2008-01-06T11:03:00.001-08:00

The city of Downey put together a really cool Old West ghost town float, complete with a Gothic graveyard. I was really pleased the way my camera phone captured "the mood."

"Lion Head" aka "King of the Outhouses"

2008-01-05T15:33:00.001-08:00

When I was watching the Rose Parade with Marisol on New Years Day, we were both struck by this float. It was easily in the top three I wanted to shoot, but I wasn't able to really capture it with my camera phone. (The army of outhouses certainly don't help my cause!)

p.s. Check out the eyeball. Amazing!

"Dodger Parade"

2008-01-04T15:42:00.000-08:00

Again using my camera phone, I tried several times to capture the float honoring my beloved Dodgers' 50th year in Los Angeles. This one is probably the best, but maybe I should post a few of the "outtakes" and get a second opinion.

Tiger Rose

2008-01-03T18:57:00.000-08:00

The tigers on this float were amazing to look at. Almost scary.

"Eagle Floats" at Rose Parade Viewing

2008-01-03T17:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Marisol and I took a quick ride down the hill to check out the Rose Parade Floats viewing just before it closed at sunset. After our hour long clockwise stream around the floats, I took this shot with my camera phone. I haven't touched it, other than reducing the size for the blog. I'm really starting to dig what I can do with my camera phone. I love the "aged" color that gives it that old west style painting look... Anyway, let me know what you think. In the meantime, I'll post more shots soon.

"First Kiss" at Cambridge University

2007-11-22T15:30:00.000-08:00

Recorded live at the first podcast forum at Cambridge University on February 21, 2006.

Feeling You (Part 1) "Mind, Body & Soul"

2007-11-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

On Monday I was stuck in a dank shipping container sorting large and grimy aircraft engine parts when my favorite radio show, The Loose Cannons came on with an announcement that they were broadcasting live from the Hooters in Pasadena. Since I live in Altadena (in the foothills above Pasadena) I decided to stop by on my way home from work. I wanted to see the guys, who the truth be told, are often the highlight of my day, especially when I'm sorting greasy engine parts near the Bob's Airport.

The Loose Cannons is a local LA sports talk radio show that comes on from noon to four each weekday. There are three main hosts of the show, lead by the brilliant stat man, Steve "Devo Hair Helmet" Hartman. Although I often find Steve's negative opinions and transplanted hair frustrating, he is undoubtedly the master "mind" and ringmaster of the show. Steve's deep knowledge of most sports, certainly the major sports in the U.S., keeps everyone in line, including the listeners.

Then there is Mychal "No Tip" Thompson. Mychal (pronounced Michael, don't ask) is a former professional basketball player who towards the end of his career played for the World Champion Los Angeles Lakers. This lead to his current gig as one of the radio announcers for Lakers games. Since he is the a former athlete, he severs as the "body" of the show. He chimes in with comments that only a professional athlete would know, so it helps to give the show credibility. As a Conservative Christian, Mychal can also be extremely annoying with his reactionary politics and superficial understanding of the world's other major faiths. Plus he's a notoriously horrible tipper.

Then there is the "soul" of the show, Vic "The Brick" Jacobs (VTB). Initially, Vic was simply the sports update guy, but now he is officially the third host and in my opinion, the best part of the show. He is both mystical and totally wacky. VTB is easily the most eclectic and interesting guy in sports talk radio. Vic is a man of the people, a modern day Bodhisattva of sports talk. His signature line of "Feeling You" is a shout out to all the fans in Los Angeles ("La Ciudad") who he represents on a daily basis. When VTB shouts "Lakers Fans... Feeling You!" You can actually "feel" Vic (not in a bad way!)

Vic was the guy I went to see at (the overpriced) Hooters in Pasadena. When I walked in, I was sure the place was going to be packed. Instead, it was totally low-key, which is the way I like it. There were a few tables of listeners, but I was able to stroll in at 2:30 and sit just a couple tables away from where the Cannons.

Steve and Vic (Mychal was traveling with the Lakers) were recording with the guys from the afternoon show, The Petros & Money Show (PMS). Vic and Steve faced the "audience" while Petros and "Money" had their backs to us. In fact, Petros' skanky crack was spilling out of the back of his jeans. It must have been some sort of health violation. I know for a fact that it was making me sick. Literally. Unfortunately I had already ordered my overpriced burger (that doesn't even come with fries) so I tried to block "P's" moon out of my mind in order to stomach my "meal."

The bottom line is, I was there to see Vic, so at the commercial break, I walked up and gave him a quick "Feeling You." As anyone who has ever met Vic knows, he is always super cool to the listeners and always gives a personalized "in the moment" interaction with his fans. "He's one good Dude."

After the show, Vic looked over to acknowledge my presence and even posed for the goofy "Feeling You" shot that I took with my camera phone and used for blog art.

Next time, I'll tell you about Steve's "semi" confidential secret of "Eternal Youth" overheard after the show at the Hooters in Pasadena...

What Do You See?

2007-11-07T17:05:00.001-08:00

File this one under Ripley's.

(View enlarged photo here)

On Halloween, Marisol and I presented our neighborhood with an "Organic Spooky House."

(Hear more hear)

Our place is an English Cottage (little on the inside) built in 1924. So in our minds, the place has a bit of an "energy" from those who have lived in our house before us, maybe even from the Roaring Twenties. So with that firmly in mind, we embraced the Twenties feel for our "Organic Spooky House" with dry ice and galvanized buckets. Yet it was the dolls in vintage style dresses "hanging" from our old Cedar, that really sealed the deal. It was super creepy....

So back to Ripley. That night, Marisol took a photo that captured a spooky image, a specter if you will, of a child in a vintage dress.... Personally, I see an actual woman holding her child. But Marisol swears that no one was in the frame when she shot the picture. I think in the chaos of that night, a woman holding her child slipped into the frame.

What do you see?

Top Image on Google for "Nautical Star Tattoo" (without quotes!)

2007-11-05T12:26:00.000-08:00

I just discovered a bit of "Good News" on "the getting My Vibe out into the World Front." I "Googled" the term "Star Tattoo" (without quotes!) and my "self-portrait" came up as the second image.... Then I tried "Nautical Star Tattoo" (again without quotes!) it came up as the first image.

I have to tell you, it really took me by surprise. To think about all of the "Star Tattoo" images that are slapped all over the internet, and to rise above the clutter, even if only by chance. That is something (I don't know what!)

Then to be the top image for "Nautical Star Tattoo" feels like a real honor. Long before me, there have been many a "Drunken Sailor" who earned the star the "real" and "old school" way.

To all the "Sailors and Warriors" who have worn the Nautical Star now and into eternity.... During dark storms, in the dead of night, alone in the middle of the Sea. I salute you.

Cheers!

Haunted Corner

2007-11-03T14:48:00.000-07:00

All Photos Shot by Marisol Martinez

Ghost in the Yard...

2007-10-29T16:57:00.000-07:00

I think I captured a Ghost in the Yard...

Full Moon in Altadena (September 25 at 7:30pm)

2007-09-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

A Couple More Altadena Weather Shots From Our Yard (September 22 at 5pm)

2007-09-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

The Altadena Weather Report From Our Yard (September 22 at 4:15pm)

2007-09-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

Cash Lives!

2007-09-17T11:41:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday night, I met the Ghost of Johnny Cash. I saw him singing and playing on the Farnsworth Park Amphitheater stage up in beautiful Altadena, California. I even shook "Johnny's" hand, but mostly I heard the Ghost of Johnny Cash.... His voice is stronger now, it must be all that pure water they have up in heaven. It is reassuring to know that The Man in White lets The Man in Black still perform gigs for the people. The Man in Black and The Man in White are not alone, they have a faithful servant in the person of Terry Lee Goffee to do most of the heavy lifting. Terry is a big man who seems to do the near impossible without effort. He brings Johnny Cash back to life for two hours a night all over the country.

I'm here to tell you, I have seen the light... Cash Lives!

The Ghost of Johnny Cash

2007-09-16T17:23:00.001-07:00

Last night I met the "Ghost of Johnny Cash." More to follow.... Shot by Marisol.

Altadena Brush Fire 08/26/07 (Part 3 of 3)

2007-08-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

A L.A. City "Sky Crane" helicopter helps to save the power line.

The "Sky Crane" sprays.

The "Sky Crane" from directly overhead.

From the top of Marengo, we see downtown and the "Sky Crane" returning to the fire after reloading.

Altadena Brush Fire 08/26/07 (Part 2 of 3)

2007-08-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

A California Highway Patrol Officer blocks the top of Marengo as a U.S. Forest Service Fire Truck arrives on scene.

L.A. County Sheriffs set up a command post at the top of Lake.

An ABC7 News camera man sets up to capture the fire.

Citizen journalists, like myself, capture the scene.

Two L.A. County Fire helicopters fight the blaze around the power lines.

Altadena Brush Fire 08/26/07 (Part 1 of 3)

2007-08-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

I ran into the house and yelled: "Hey Marisol! Our mountain is on fire!

We grabbed the camera and ran up to the park to get a better look.

Fire trucks were still coming up the hill with their sirens blarring...

All the way up to the top of Lake.

Our neighbors gathered to watch and capture what was happening.