In my time at my new agency, I've been lucky to meet some truly talented people. One of those people is Mrs. Sherry Hastings. An art director of fine caliber, she has moved on to making wallets. And they are brilliant.
I bought one from her early in the process so now I can say I knew her when.
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5494816
http://sherryholliday.wordpress.com/
So, open your old wallet, take everything out, use your credit card and wait eagerly for your new money holder. Your rep will thank you.
3.10.2008
New ink
I finally did something I'd been threatening to do for 4 years. Got another tattoo.
This one is in honor of my dad. It's a strip cropped from a woodcut print he did. All black, a band around my arm.
It's something I'd been shopping around to various artists in NC but never quite found someone who I had confidence could do it. This was especially important after getting my first one done by someone I am now convinced was doing his first one. Not good.
At Black Heart Tattoo in the mission, I found a guy named Mike Lucena.
His portfolio can be found here: Black Heart
It's peeled and still looks good. So a great deal of thanks to Mike. If you're ever in need of ink and in Brooklyn, he's moving, Mike's your man.
This one is in honor of my dad. It's a strip cropped from a woodcut print he did. All black, a band around my arm.
It's something I'd been shopping around to various artists in NC but never quite found someone who I had confidence could do it. This was especially important after getting my first one done by someone I am now convinced was doing his first one. Not good.
At Black Heart Tattoo in the mission, I found a guy named Mike Lucena.
His portfolio can be found here: Black Heart
It's peeled and still looks good. So a great deal of thanks to Mike. If you're ever in need of ink and in Brooklyn, he's moving, Mike's your man.
Careful what you wish for
There is a great deal of hoopla surrounding the primaries in Florida and Michigan.
One thing to keep in mind: According to Randi Rhodes of Air America, there was not a single dissenting vote in the Florida Legislature against moving up the primary date. Not one Democrat voted against the measure even though the DNC had stated they would punish FL if they moved the primary up.
Why?
Because after the recent presidential election, Democrats were screaming for a paper trail to go along with the electronic voting machines. So they got it. As a part of the same bill that moved up the primary dates.
So to cry victim and say that the Republican Governor and Legislature did this to Democrats knowing their vote wouldn't count in the general election simply isn't true.
BUT, that brings us to the present. Notice the Republican Gov. of Florida is pushing hard to hold the new vote.
Again, why?
Could it be he knows that something to vote against, gay marriage for instance, turns out Republicans like no other? Could it be because he knows the name Clinton unifies the Republican base more than any other name out there? Could it be that he knows the Republican base is lukewarm on John McCain? Could it be that he realizes she likely cannot catch Mr. Obama without a new vote in Florida and Michigan, two states filled with her typical base?
It could be. It likely is. Careful what you wish for.
Now I firmly believe no one should be disenfranchised. I believe we should find a way through this so that a new vote is done with time for the candidates to campaign.
But, I think it is also true disenfranchisement to go out and say the pledged delegates don't have to vote for the candidate they are "pledged" to. Yes, Hillary herself said these words today. It is also disenfranchisement to seat the Michigan delegates when only one of the candidates left was on the ballot. Also a position the Clinton campaign has expressed.
One thing to keep in mind: According to Randi Rhodes of Air America, there was not a single dissenting vote in the Florida Legislature against moving up the primary date. Not one Democrat voted against the measure even though the DNC had stated they would punish FL if they moved the primary up.
Why?
Because after the recent presidential election, Democrats were screaming for a paper trail to go along with the electronic voting machines. So they got it. As a part of the same bill that moved up the primary dates.
So to cry victim and say that the Republican Governor and Legislature did this to Democrats knowing their vote wouldn't count in the general election simply isn't true.
BUT, that brings us to the present. Notice the Republican Gov. of Florida is pushing hard to hold the new vote.
Again, why?
Could it be he knows that something to vote against, gay marriage for instance, turns out Republicans like no other? Could it be because he knows the name Clinton unifies the Republican base more than any other name out there? Could it be that he knows the Republican base is lukewarm on John McCain? Could it be that he realizes she likely cannot catch Mr. Obama without a new vote in Florida and Michigan, two states filled with her typical base?
It could be. It likely is. Careful what you wish for.
Now I firmly believe no one should be disenfranchised. I believe we should find a way through this so that a new vote is done with time for the candidates to campaign.
But, I think it is also true disenfranchisement to go out and say the pledged delegates don't have to vote for the candidate they are "pledged" to. Yes, Hillary herself said these words today. It is also disenfranchisement to seat the Michigan delegates when only one of the candidates left was on the ballot. Also a position the Clinton campaign has expressed.
3.07.2008
Supporting Barack Obama
Here is one of the reasons I have contributed monetarily to the Obama campaign:
The Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional Weapons Threat Reduction Act.
In this instance, Obama crossed the aisle to work with Senator Lugar (R-IN) on a bill that funded and worked to strengthen the Nuclear non-proliferation agreements. Additionally, and equally importantly, it worked to secure weapon caches of shoulder mounted missiles. A weapon used a few years ago in Africa to target a commuter plane as it was taking off from an airport. These weapons have become more and more accessible on the black market according to the co-sponsors and could end up in the hands of insurgents in Iraq attacking our troops. Additionally, these weapons could be used in a terrorist attack against our infrastructure with devastating effects.
This is one of many bills that he has either sponsored or co-sponsored. A comprehensive list can be looked up on the Library of Congress website here: http://thomas.loc.gov/
Donate here.
The Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional Weapons Threat Reduction Act.
In this instance, Obama crossed the aisle to work with Senator Lugar (R-IN) on a bill that funded and worked to strengthen the Nuclear non-proliferation agreements. Additionally, and equally importantly, it worked to secure weapon caches of shoulder mounted missiles. A weapon used a few years ago in Africa to target a commuter plane as it was taking off from an airport. These weapons have become more and more accessible on the black market according to the co-sponsors and could end up in the hands of insurgents in Iraq attacking our troops. Additionally, these weapons could be used in a terrorist attack against our infrastructure with devastating effects.
This is one of many bills that he has either sponsored or co-sponsored. A comprehensive list can be looked up on the Library of Congress website here: http://thomas.loc.gov/
Donate here.
Politics
I don't like pushing my political views on other people because I don't like having political views pushed on me. Thus, I find myself in a conundrum. I feel compelled to take action on behalf of Barack Obama. Most of my need to express my support has been brought about by George Bush's presidency. I am not unique in this motivation as evidenced by the record turn outs in recent primaries. It has never been clearer the effect a President can have on our country. But, I approach my advocacy with a conflicted heart. Part of me needing to do something. Part of me not wanting that something to disrespect the sacred decision of my friends' votes.
So I ask your forgiveness. From here until election day, I will be posting some of my thoughts about the race on this blog. I will only post what I find interesting or pushes me further in one direction or the other. Please ignore them if you'd rather not read them. I will continue posting about my adventures out West and hope you will continue to enjoy those.
So I ask your forgiveness. From here until election day, I will be posting some of my thoughts about the race on this blog. I will only post what I find interesting or pushes me further in one direction or the other. Please ignore them if you'd rather not read them. I will continue posting about my adventures out West and hope you will continue to enjoy those.
3.04.2008
9 Degrees
Just got back from a family ski trip to Colorado. And one night, it was all of 9 degrees outside. This of course made for absolutely fabulous snow conditions at the two absolutely huge resorts we were able to ski.
I think John said it best: "You could take a picture of this but it would do no justice. A picture just makes it too small. You have to be in it to appreciate it."
Speaking of large, we also rented a Ford Expedition to handle skis, boots, snowboard and my over 6 ft cousins. I drove it to the airport this morning and that's just too much car. I know some people have 17 children but I'd bet the majority of Expedition owners definitely do not. But of course, I'm biased.
As for the skiing, much fun was had. There was one tense moment where one of my cousins took out the pretty girl on the slopes. Thankfully all were ok.
I had a great time skiing through the trees and the wide trails on various occasions. My skiing improved greatly over the course of the three days. There were definitely moments where I was sucking wind thanks to the 9,000 foot elevation change from my now native SF. The soreness in my legs is testament that I was working hard. And the lack of clarity in this post is further evidence that it wore me out.
On to the next adventure.
I think John said it best: "You could take a picture of this but it would do no justice. A picture just makes it too small. You have to be in it to appreciate it."
Speaking of large, we also rented a Ford Expedition to handle skis, boots, snowboard and my over 6 ft cousins. I drove it to the airport this morning and that's just too much car. I know some people have 17 children but I'd bet the majority of Expedition owners definitely do not. But of course, I'm biased.
As for the skiing, much fun was had. There was one tense moment where one of my cousins took out the pretty girl on the slopes. Thankfully all were ok.
I had a great time skiing through the trees and the wide trails on various occasions. My skiing improved greatly over the course of the three days. There were definitely moments where I was sucking wind thanks to the 9,000 foot elevation change from my now native SF. The soreness in my legs is testament that I was working hard. And the lack of clarity in this post is further evidence that it wore me out.
On to the next adventure.
2.15.2008
Eating Goose
Yes, San Francisco has a pillow fighting club. Yes, they held their big event of the year yesterday. Yes, I went. Yes, it rocked. And it lasted four hours.
I received several invitations from friends and showed up at the plaza in front of the Ferry Building a little early. There were girls in pantsuits and heels. Others showed up with custom made pillow bashing devices. Two guys geared up with full-on UN Peace Keeper regalia.
And promptly at 6:00, pillows broke loose. I'm in these somewhere:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=MWmv_pA6lHM
http://youtube.com/watch?v=mMyg-LaH9Ec
http://youtube.com/watch?v=KWzxT-w0X6k
You may see goose down explosions in some of the videos. Many pillows blew out after too manly a swing. At some points, it looked like a blizzard. There was one moment where a gust of wind came through and created a feathered tornado that everyone paused to check out. "Wow, that's one of the most amazing thing's I've ever seen," was one guys summation. He was promptly hit in the face. At one point, one of these pillows exploded right in front of me. This lead to a mouth full of goose down and coughing the rest of the night. Next year, I'm not laughing at the guys with scarves over their nose and mouth.
Apparently by the end of the event, the goose down was up to some people's knees. And all of it was gone this morning.
One of my pics:
I received several invitations from friends and showed up at the plaza in front of the Ferry Building a little early. There were girls in pantsuits and heels. Others showed up with custom made pillow bashing devices. Two guys geared up with full-on UN Peace Keeper regalia.
And promptly at 6:00, pillows broke loose. I'm in these somewhere:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=MWmv_pA6lHM
http://youtube.com/watch?v=mMyg-LaH9Ec
http://youtube.com/watch?v=KWzxT-w0X6k
You may see goose down explosions in some of the videos. Many pillows blew out after too manly a swing. At some points, it looked like a blizzard. There was one moment where a gust of wind came through and created a feathered tornado that everyone paused to check out. "Wow, that's one of the most amazing thing's I've ever seen," was one guys summation. He was promptly hit in the face. At one point, one of these pillows exploded right in front of me. This lead to a mouth full of goose down and coughing the rest of the night. Next year, I'm not laughing at the guys with scarves over their nose and mouth.
Apparently by the end of the event, the goose down was up to some people's knees. And all of it was gone this morning.
One of my pics:
2.13.2008
San Francisco Profile #5: 36c
I stumble across you on my way home. It's been a long day and I'm absorbed in the thumping beats of my iPod shuffle but the sight of you snaps me back to reality. There you are on the sidewalk. All by yourself.
A bra.
At some point, you were loved. For you are not just any supportive garment, you are frilly. You are pink. Maybe you are even Victoria's Secret. Yet after days and days of sitting on the cold concrete, you have become dingy. Lost that clear pink hue that once attracted someone to pull you off the rack and pay too much money for you. The only thing broken about you is your spirit. Your belief that you had a few more good wearings in you.
A sad sight to be sure.
****
It is the oddest thing. In this town, you will find random clothes on the sidewalk. I think I've mentioned the piles of clothes before. But this was the first time I have come across just one unmentionable. Just sitting there. Waiting to be talked about.
A bra.
At some point, you were loved. For you are not just any supportive garment, you are frilly. You are pink. Maybe you are even Victoria's Secret. Yet after days and days of sitting on the cold concrete, you have become dingy. Lost that clear pink hue that once attracted someone to pull you off the rack and pay too much money for you. The only thing broken about you is your spirit. Your belief that you had a few more good wearings in you.
A sad sight to be sure.
****
It is the oddest thing. In this town, you will find random clothes on the sidewalk. I think I've mentioned the piles of clothes before. But this was the first time I have come across just one unmentionable. Just sitting there. Waiting to be talked about.
2.11.2008
Juju runs the PCH
This past Saturday was gorgeous. It was the kind of gorgeous that makes you get outside regardless of anything else. The kind of gorgeous that invented sports. The kind of gorgeous that makes men actually want to cut their grass and fix the gutters.
Obviously I had to do something outside. In pondering my options, I also realized that Juju, my MINI, hadn’t been out of her cage in almost 2.5 months. Now she loves the garage. A sanctuary that keeps her paint from getting keyed randomly. (A tragedy a friend's brand spanking new VW recently suffered.) But it’s no place for a pure driving car like Juju to spend a day like this past Saturday.
So what better way to stretch her 17-inch, race tire covered rims than head to the Pacific Coast Highway? We decided to venture south.
Abso-freaking-lutely incredible.
Windows down. Sunroof open. Music blasting. There is no better way, or stretch of road, to drive. There are comparable slices of asphalt. The dragon's tail in NC for example. But few others provide an incredible view of giant waves crashing on huge rocks. Very few have reinforced guard rails to be sure you don't mess up and go spilling into the Pacific. And even fewer have turnouts who's views rival the Blue Ridge Parkway.
For example:
Obviously I had to do something outside. In pondering my options, I also realized that Juju, my MINI, hadn’t been out of her cage in almost 2.5 months. Now she loves the garage. A sanctuary that keeps her paint from getting keyed randomly. (A tragedy a friend's brand spanking new VW recently suffered.) But it’s no place for a pure driving car like Juju to spend a day like this past Saturday.
So what better way to stretch her 17-inch, race tire covered rims than head to the Pacific Coast Highway? We decided to venture south.
Abso-freaking-lutely incredible.
Windows down. Sunroof open. Music blasting. There is no better way, or stretch of road, to drive. There are comparable slices of asphalt. The dragon's tail in NC for example. But few others provide an incredible view of giant waves crashing on huge rocks. Very few have reinforced guard rails to be sure you don't mess up and go spilling into the Pacific. And even fewer have turnouts who's views rival the Blue Ridge Parkway.
For example:
2.05.2008
Just trying to keep up.
I can't keep up with this city. There's so much to do it's amazing.
Starting with New Year's Eve. My roommate was spinning at a club right alongside the best Breaks DJ in the world. Needless to say it was quite an evening.
From there, unfortunately, the start of the year saw some layoffs at our agency. I made it through but several friends did not. That was tough.
I also started teaching a class at the Miami Ad School - San Francisco branch. Finally a chance to corrupt young minds.
The third weekend of the month also marked my first trip to Tahoe. Which was truly one of the most breathtaking ski trips I've ever been on. I have never seen so much snow in my life. It had been pouring rain in SF for days. Downpour levels that mix with wind to turn umbrellas inside out and then dump water on their owners when they get turned right side out.
Increase the elevation 5,000 feet and that means snow. Lots and lots of snow. On the way to Tahoe snow was covering absolutely everything. There is a summit on the way to Tahoe and on the sides of the highway going up to the pass, the snow on the side of the road was easily up to 8 feet in some places. We passed by one Hwy 80 sign that I could only see the bare top of. I must admit, this is quite a different world than the snow levels I’m used to. I’m usually happy if I see ice on the rocks on the way up to the hills in NC.
The actual ski mountains, note the plural, are just as gorgeous. I've never had as much terrain to ski at any point in my life. Or such difficult terrain. Thank goodness I demoed an excellent pair of skis as they kept me upright in spite of many of my best efforts.
From there, we go to this past weekend's SuperBowl Party. I shall say nothing about the game except that I was quite disappointed. My sense of woe was thankfully assuaged by a project I finished with a friend just before the game. 28-layer dip. Yes, your 7-layer dip just hung its refried beans in shame. 28 distinct and tasty layers. Man it was towering. And delicious.
So now hopefully you few loyal readers understand why posts have been so few and far between. There has been much going on. Most of which continues to confirm my love for the city and my life out here. I also renew my promise to bring you more detail as things happen.
Starting with New Year's Eve. My roommate was spinning at a club right alongside the best Breaks DJ in the world. Needless to say it was quite an evening.
From there, unfortunately, the start of the year saw some layoffs at our agency. I made it through but several friends did not. That was tough.
I also started teaching a class at the Miami Ad School - San Francisco branch. Finally a chance to corrupt young minds.
The third weekend of the month also marked my first trip to Tahoe. Which was truly one of the most breathtaking ski trips I've ever been on. I have never seen so much snow in my life. It had been pouring rain in SF for days. Downpour levels that mix with wind to turn umbrellas inside out and then dump water on their owners when they get turned right side out.
Increase the elevation 5,000 feet and that means snow. Lots and lots of snow. On the way to Tahoe snow was covering absolutely everything. There is a summit on the way to Tahoe and on the sides of the highway going up to the pass, the snow on the side of the road was easily up to 8 feet in some places. We passed by one Hwy 80 sign that I could only see the bare top of. I must admit, this is quite a different world than the snow levels I’m used to. I’m usually happy if I see ice on the rocks on the way up to the hills in NC.
The actual ski mountains, note the plural, are just as gorgeous. I've never had as much terrain to ski at any point in my life. Or such difficult terrain. Thank goodness I demoed an excellent pair of skis as they kept me upright in spite of many of my best efforts.
From there, we go to this past weekend's SuperBowl Party. I shall say nothing about the game except that I was quite disappointed. My sense of woe was thankfully assuaged by a project I finished with a friend just before the game. 28-layer dip. Yes, your 7-layer dip just hung its refried beans in shame. 28 distinct and tasty layers. Man it was towering. And delicious.
So now hopefully you few loyal readers understand why posts have been so few and far between. There has been much going on. Most of which continues to confirm my love for the city and my life out here. I also renew my promise to bring you more detail as things happen.
12.23.2007
Shooting spots
Shot my first spots for GSH this past week. Here I am posing for the plate shot at Infineon Raceway.
12.01.2007
I'm in a rap video
At least that's what yesterday at work felt like. We went on a wine tour of Napa Valley as an agency field trip. Quite upper crusty one might say. Hardly.
It starts going down hill as soon as the bus arrives. Or more aptly called Party Bus. Overhead neon. Strobe lights. Leather couches not individual seats. Stereo system / CD player / DVD player / Satellite TV on a big screen. It was truly out of control.
Mimosas before we got to Napa, four vineyards averaging five tastings at each, beers in between vineyards. All this adds up to a dance party on the way home that everyone, and I mean everyone, got caught up on some way or another. To give you an idea of the fierceness of the booty shaking, thongs were seen.
We stopped to get beer on the way home because we ran out. We should not have run out. We stopped to get a breathalyser machine at Restoration Hardware. Restoration Hardware should not sell breathalysers. (They do.) Our bosses came in first in the heavy drinking category blowing numbers that declared them legally embalmed. People missed flights. As in, rather than going to the airport when we got back two hours late, they kept partying.
In the coherent moments, the vineyards were gorgeous and some of the wines were exquisite. At Mondavi, we tasted the ninth ranked wine in the world according to Wine Spectator. Deliciouso. Their dessert wine was pretty killer as well.
Well, I'm six months in and I must say this is quite a nice marker.
It starts going down hill as soon as the bus arrives. Or more aptly called Party Bus. Overhead neon. Strobe lights. Leather couches not individual seats. Stereo system / CD player / DVD player / Satellite TV on a big screen. It was truly out of control.
Mimosas before we got to Napa, four vineyards averaging five tastings at each, beers in between vineyards. All this adds up to a dance party on the way home that everyone, and I mean everyone, got caught up on some way or another. To give you an idea of the fierceness of the booty shaking, thongs were seen.
We stopped to get beer on the way home because we ran out. We should not have run out. We stopped to get a breathalyser machine at Restoration Hardware. Restoration Hardware should not sell breathalysers. (They do.) Our bosses came in first in the heavy drinking category blowing numbers that declared them legally embalmed. People missed flights. As in, rather than going to the airport when we got back two hours late, they kept partying.
In the coherent moments, the vineyards were gorgeous and some of the wines were exquisite. At Mondavi, we tasted the ninth ranked wine in the world according to Wine Spectator. Deliciouso. Their dessert wine was pretty killer as well.
Well, I'm six months in and I must say this is quite a nice marker.
11.29.2007
We lost one
One of our writers (Philip) decided that love was more important than advertising. The heresy. So he's off to be a freelancer in Los Angeles. To my LA friends, if you see the guy in the middle running around with a portfolio under his arm, hire him immediately. He will make you laugh. He will make you cry. He will make you money.
11.25.2007
Get thee to the symphony. Seriously.
Buy tickets and go. There's really no other musical experience like a full orchestra and for some reason, the music just has a way of soothing the soul.
The show on Saturday was fantastic. Lots of Haydn. Lots of passion from the conductor. Lots of older patrons. I'd never experienced the symphony of a major city. Winston's is quite good for a city that size. But I think they have to stick to the more well known works as there isn't a population that can support less well known works.
Anyway, go. You'll like it. Your ears will like it. Your brain will feel relaxed and refreshed all at the same time. And no, the symphony doesn't make you older. That's time's fault.
The show on Saturday was fantastic. Lots of Haydn. Lots of passion from the conductor. Lots of older patrons. I'd never experienced the symphony of a major city. Winston's is quite good for a city that size. But I think they have to stick to the more well known works as there isn't a population that can support less well known works.
Anyway, go. You'll like it. Your ears will like it. Your brain will feel relaxed and refreshed all at the same time. And no, the symphony doesn't make you older. That's time's fault.
11.24.2007
Kumquats and Koalas
This was a brilliant Thanksgiving and once again I have plenty to be thankful for. Lots of new friends to start. An amazing city to live in, a roommate who's company I don't tolerate but actually enjoy. Plus an agency that's inspiring and trying everything it can to do things the right way. Not to mention a healthy family that loves me.
We created quite a feast this Thanksgiving. The attendee list: Jay, Allan, Celeste, Trav, Stephanie and Me. We feasted on brined turkey, savory bread pudding stuffing, asparagus with prosciutto, squash with candied pecans and goat cheese, bread of course, two kinds of cranberries, one with kumquats, scalloped potatoes, and some killer wine. Wine that was purchased and then stored 10 years ago. And then more wine that Mom and John purchased on their visit. Delicious. And of course we topped it all off with apple pie, ice cream and persimmon cookies. Incroyable.
On Friday, we headed off to the San Francisco Zoo. Really a great city zoo. There's not a ton of spare land around but they do a good job of maximizing the land as best they can. Bears and koalas have some room to roam, monkeys have a lot of room to swing and play. Do wish there could have been more but then, there's not a lot of spare room in this city. It's also one of the only zoos in the country where you can watch them feed the big cats. They bring in lions, tigers and siberian tigers. Pretty amazing. I saw one of the lions come in and you could tell he was a killing machine. He kept pacing and pacing until a small kid let out a wail. At that point, he zeroed in and straight up stared down this kid. It was unnerving.
I topped the day off by watching Carolina beat ODU. They are playing in Vegas but I couldn't find another Carolina Fan who would commit themselves to making the trip with me. And then tonight, I'm off to the symphony with Steph. My art director Jessica finagled some free tickets for me.
Yes, once again, I have much to be thankful for.
We created quite a feast this Thanksgiving. The attendee list: Jay, Allan, Celeste, Trav, Stephanie and Me. We feasted on brined turkey, savory bread pudding stuffing, asparagus with prosciutto, squash with candied pecans and goat cheese, bread of course, two kinds of cranberries, one with kumquats, scalloped potatoes, and some killer wine. Wine that was purchased and then stored 10 years ago. And then more wine that Mom and John purchased on their visit. Delicious. And of course we topped it all off with apple pie, ice cream and persimmon cookies. Incroyable.
On Friday, we headed off to the San Francisco Zoo. Really a great city zoo. There's not a ton of spare land around but they do a good job of maximizing the land as best they can. Bears and koalas have some room to roam, monkeys have a lot of room to swing and play. Do wish there could have been more but then, there's not a lot of spare room in this city. It's also one of the only zoos in the country where you can watch them feed the big cats. They bring in lions, tigers and siberian tigers. Pretty amazing. I saw one of the lions come in and you could tell he was a killing machine. He kept pacing and pacing until a small kid let out a wail. At that point, he zeroed in and straight up stared down this kid. It was unnerving.
I topped the day off by watching Carolina beat ODU. They are playing in Vegas but I couldn't find another Carolina Fan who would commit themselves to making the trip with me. And then tonight, I'm off to the symphony with Steph. My art director Jessica finagled some free tickets for me.
Yes, once again, I have much to be thankful for.
11.14.2007
My Lying Ears
I heard a most extraordinary thing this evening.
Many of us are here at the agency working late. Big presentation tomorrow to one of our clients and we're presenting two different brand books. One for each of their brands. As a part of that one of our senior production people, Dennis, is here making sure the printer plays nice and that the books are put together properly. Earlier in the day we had sung Happy Birthday and presented this man with an ice cream cake.
So around 8:30 as we're eating dinner, my boss (amazing bit one, he's with us) walks up to Dennis and says, "You're still here? Why are you still here, it's your birthday." (Amazing bit two.) And then follows that up with, "Make sure you take the day off tomorrow and celebrate your birthday." (Amazing bit three.)
What the hell kind of advertising agency is this?
Many of us are here at the agency working late. Big presentation tomorrow to one of our clients and we're presenting two different brand books. One for each of their brands. As a part of that one of our senior production people, Dennis, is here making sure the printer plays nice and that the books are put together properly. Earlier in the day we had sung Happy Birthday and presented this man with an ice cream cake.
So around 8:30 as we're eating dinner, my boss (amazing bit one, he's with us) walks up to Dennis and says, "You're still here? Why are you still here, it's your birthday." (Amazing bit two.) And then follows that up with, "Make sure you take the day off tomorrow and celebrate your birthday." (Amazing bit three.)
What the hell kind of advertising agency is this?
11.10.2007
Perma-cloud
Winter has set in. I was warned there would be 40 days of rain and yet I have built no Arc. And by that I mean, I have not bought a winter coat. Apparently, San Francisco winters are much like Seattle's every day. Rain, drizzle, rain, fog, and repeat. It seems there's a cloud that comes to hibernate over the city from now through January. Supposedly there are some nice days in there when the sun manages to beat the fog back. As for me, its kind of a welcome change. I mean the city can't really be this perfect all the time can it?
I had a bit of a Winston-Salem reunion last night. I went to go see a DJ named Rick Preston. I'd met him through Cory Allison and Jason Cooper, the only DJs spinning house in Winston. Rick would sometimes do a guest appearance. An appearance that would fill my house batteries for many months. It seems here, I can get my fix whenever I please. With some rather top shelf talent to boot.
So now I'm procrastinating. In my head, I'm scheduled to be writing TV scripts for Infineon Raceway. Instead, I find myself here. With you good readers. Thanks for the break.
I had a bit of a Winston-Salem reunion last night. I went to go see a DJ named Rick Preston. I'd met him through Cory Allison and Jason Cooper, the only DJs spinning house in Winston. Rick would sometimes do a guest appearance. An appearance that would fill my house batteries for many months. It seems here, I can get my fix whenever I please. With some rather top shelf talent to boot.
So now I'm procrastinating. In my head, I'm scheduled to be writing TV scripts for Infineon Raceway. Instead, I find myself here. With you good readers. Thanks for the break.
11.04.2007
Parents Weekend
The padres came into town this weekend. Partially on business and mostly to see your truly. I'm so thankful to have them here to visit. I was able to show them bits and pieces that hopefully whet their appetite for the next return trip.
I felt a bit bad for John as he had a client in town and had to make sure said client was well tended to. He did a fine job. And if that's the excuse that gets them out here on the regular, I'm all for it.
I was tasked with finding eateries for three nights. And if I do say so, I did a fine job. Three restaurants, three fine meals. I even got John into a vegetarian restaurant for lunch on Sunday. A lunch which he actually enjoyed. The enjoyment level was a surprise. Especially to John.
So as my parents are the two people actually reading this blog, thanks for coming. I love you truly and appreciate your taking the adventure. I hope you were able to get a glimpse of how truly special my circle of friends is becoming, how blessed I am to have the job I have at an agency I believe in, how amazing this city is and how much fun I'm having.
I miss my family terribly. I hope they move out here soon.
I felt a bit bad for John as he had a client in town and had to make sure said client was well tended to. He did a fine job. And if that's the excuse that gets them out here on the regular, I'm all for it.
I was tasked with finding eateries for three nights. And if I do say so, I did a fine job. Three restaurants, three fine meals. I even got John into a vegetarian restaurant for lunch on Sunday. A lunch which he actually enjoyed. The enjoyment level was a surprise. Especially to John.
So as my parents are the two people actually reading this blog, thanks for coming. I love you truly and appreciate your taking the adventure. I hope you were able to get a glimpse of how truly special my circle of friends is becoming, how blessed I am to have the job I have at an agency I believe in, how amazing this city is and how much fun I'm having.
I miss my family terribly. I hope they move out here soon.
It was only a matter of time
I just couldn't help myself. I'm a copycat. I'm a follower. I'm a sheep. I'm a loyal tither in the church of Steve Jobs and I just can't help myself.
My Art Director got an iPhone on Friday. By Saturday afternoon, I found myself at the Apple store. I have one. I love my newly dubbed ePhone more than any other phone I have ever used. I will not lose sight of the fact that the phone is an object. Not nearly as important as people. Merely a thing. But a damn cool, unfreaking believably useful object of my affection.
My Art Director got an iPhone on Friday. By Saturday afternoon, I found myself at the Apple store. I have one. I love my newly dubbed ePhone more than any other phone I have ever used. I will not lose sight of the fact that the phone is an object. Not nearly as important as people. Merely a thing. But a damn cool, unfreaking believably useful object of my affection.
10.28.2007
Spider Pig, Spider Pig
It's All Hallow's Eve time here in SF. Lots of parties this weekend. Lots of freaks in the street. Good times all around.
My art director Jess, my man Joel and I went to a house party in Bernal Heights. Of course it would more aptly be named a mansion party. The doctor who owns it throws the party every year. It's pricey to get in but all the money is donated to charity. There's also an open bar, Mariachi bands, DJs, live bands, secret passageways around the house. It was nuts.
Some of the best costumes included a giant sized Snoopy, a Miner with a bear trap around his leg, Gumby done in lights, Jess as a peacock, Joel as the bearded lady, and various super heroes including one gent who appeared to be Super Sperm.
I myself was Spider Pig. If you don't know what a Spider Pig is, check the following: http://youtube.com/watch?v=714-Ioa4XQw
It was one of those last minute bits of genius that came after a lot of thinking about the Halloween costume. Pictures to come.
My art director Jess, my man Joel and I went to a house party in Bernal Heights. Of course it would more aptly be named a mansion party. The doctor who owns it throws the party every year. It's pricey to get in but all the money is donated to charity. There's also an open bar, Mariachi bands, DJs, live bands, secret passageways around the house. It was nuts.
Some of the best costumes included a giant sized Snoopy, a Miner with a bear trap around his leg, Gumby done in lights, Jess as a peacock, Joel as the bearded lady, and various super heroes including one gent who appeared to be Super Sperm.
I myself was Spider Pig. If you don't know what a Spider Pig is, check the following: http://youtube.com/watch?v=714-Ioa4XQw
It was one of those last minute bits of genius that came after a lot of thinking about the Halloween costume. Pictures to come.
10.21.2007
Convert #1
I moved out here a bit on my own. I had a few people I knew from Ad School. People I'd shared a beer and a few classes with but that's about it. No one who understands my need to watch all things Carolina athletics. No one who finds my car obsession "cute" rather than wholly neurotic.
And that's not to say Joel finds me any more sane, but we have mutual experiences which puts him more firmly into the tolerant friend category. Murphy's Lunch Fried Chicken. Late night games of Quake. Trips to the caves that I bailed on. (Thank goodness, it poured rain.) Screaming at the TV during the Carolina / dook game. And now one more experience we share. He just moved to San Francisco.
It's also been a bit interesting to watch him go through some of the same moments I first had. Starting with, "Holy Crap I'm actually here. I really did this. What was I thinking?" All the way to, "This is a pretty cool place to live."
I'm hoping today was more of the latter for him. It certainly was for me. My new friend and Art Director Jessica ran a marathon today. Let me go ahead and get this out of the way: I'm a lazy-ass. Moving on. Some of the other creatives in the office, Joel and I went down to the marathon route to cheer her on. We actually managed to find a spot close to the finish that she would pass by twice so we could get in twice the cheering. And thus, twice the good karma.
She ran by the first time (mile 16) and we were appropriately loud and obnoxious. And as serendipity would have it, we were also feet away from the beach. On a cloudless, fogless, perfect day. We walked down to the beach and popped open snacks. Mimosas. Little Debbie Snack cakes. Chips and salsa. Threw a football around. Attempted to catch it. Sometimes.
There were also moments where all we could do was stand around and look up and down the beach. It was incredible. Rock formations jutting out into the water. To the North, a gorgeous view of Marin and the few houses lucky enough to see both the Pacific and have a view of downtown SF. To the South, an area appropriately called Pacifica. After a good solid two hours of drinking, eating, throwing, catching, finger jamming, and ogling at nature, we headed back up to cheer Jessica to the finish.
We also cheered for an awful lot of other people. Probably because we had just spent two hours on a beach indulging ourselves. These people had just spent 4.5-5 hours running and raising 18.5 Million dollars to fight Leukemia. So we clapped and yelled for strangers. They certainly deserved it.
Then we clapped and cheered for Jess and her friend Colleen. They looked unhappy, happy, and loony all at the same time. We made a walk down to the finish line but it was slammed with people, DJs, guys in tuxes handing out Tiffany jewelry boxes (it was the SF Women's Marathon) and enough well wishers that we were none too sure we'd actually find Jess. But we were sure she would be well congratulated.
On the way home she called to thank us. She said she cried like a 12 year old. If I'd run that far all just to get a necklace from a guy in a tux, I probably would have too.
So now I've got an old friend here from back East. And it seems like I've got a couple new old friends as well.
And that's not to say Joel finds me any more sane, but we have mutual experiences which puts him more firmly into the tolerant friend category. Murphy's Lunch Fried Chicken. Late night games of Quake. Trips to the caves that I bailed on. (Thank goodness, it poured rain.) Screaming at the TV during the Carolina / dook game. And now one more experience we share. He just moved to San Francisco.
It's also been a bit interesting to watch him go through some of the same moments I first had. Starting with, "Holy Crap I'm actually here. I really did this. What was I thinking?" All the way to, "This is a pretty cool place to live."
I'm hoping today was more of the latter for him. It certainly was for me. My new friend and Art Director Jessica ran a marathon today. Let me go ahead and get this out of the way: I'm a lazy-ass. Moving on. Some of the other creatives in the office, Joel and I went down to the marathon route to cheer her on. We actually managed to find a spot close to the finish that she would pass by twice so we could get in twice the cheering. And thus, twice the good karma.
She ran by the first time (mile 16) and we were appropriately loud and obnoxious. And as serendipity would have it, we were also feet away from the beach. On a cloudless, fogless, perfect day. We walked down to the beach and popped open snacks. Mimosas. Little Debbie Snack cakes. Chips and salsa. Threw a football around. Attempted to catch it. Sometimes.
There were also moments where all we could do was stand around and look up and down the beach. It was incredible. Rock formations jutting out into the water. To the North, a gorgeous view of Marin and the few houses lucky enough to see both the Pacific and have a view of downtown SF. To the South, an area appropriately called Pacifica. After a good solid two hours of drinking, eating, throwing, catching, finger jamming, and ogling at nature, we headed back up to cheer Jessica to the finish.
We also cheered for an awful lot of other people. Probably because we had just spent two hours on a beach indulging ourselves. These people had just spent 4.5-5 hours running and raising 18.5 Million dollars to fight Leukemia. So we clapped and yelled for strangers. They certainly deserved it.
Then we clapped and cheered for Jess and her friend Colleen. They looked unhappy, happy, and loony all at the same time. We made a walk down to the finish line but it was slammed with people, DJs, guys in tuxes handing out Tiffany jewelry boxes (it was the SF Women's Marathon) and enough well wishers that we were none too sure we'd actually find Jess. But we were sure she would be well congratulated.
On the way home she called to thank us. She said she cried like a 12 year old. If I'd run that far all just to get a necklace from a guy in a tux, I probably would have too.
So now I've got an old friend here from back East. And it seems like I've got a couple new old friends as well.
10.05.2007
SF Profile #4: My favorite pan handler.
Homelessness is a big problem in San Francisco. Lots of money. Moderate climate. Lots of social programs. All add up to a place those on the margins can actually eek out an existence.
Which means I've seen many different approaches to asking for money. They guy who just sleeps but leaves his cup waiting for your dollar. The guy who's on the same corner every morning in his electric wheelchair. The man who uses a fishing set-up with his cup on a string. Some are truly heart wrenching. Some are angry at the world. I try to respond when asked, even if only to say I don't have any change on me. These are people and by responding I keep track of that. One time a woman actually responded "bullshit" when I said I didn't have any change. I was telling the truth and her response made me a little more callous for a few days.
But my favorite guy, I'm not sure he's actually homeless. His tact is to tell the truth. I pass by him on my way to and from the gym and he often shouts out, "Can somebody help me out here, I'm trying to get inebriated!" The blatant honesty makes me laugh every time. This incantation is often followed with, "I'm tired of lying about cheeseburgers I'm not gonna eat." This is not a new approach of course, but he doesn't hold a sign and let's his voice carry him through. He also seems oddly upbeat, perhaps drunk, all the time.
I feel for anyone who has to struggle with being poor. Especially those who are forced into the streets. The fact that he is able to laugh at his situation says a lot. I just hope it's working and that just maybe he actually is lying and using the money for something more than just a stiff drink.
Which means I've seen many different approaches to asking for money. They guy who just sleeps but leaves his cup waiting for your dollar. The guy who's on the same corner every morning in his electric wheelchair. The man who uses a fishing set-up with his cup on a string. Some are truly heart wrenching. Some are angry at the world. I try to respond when asked, even if only to say I don't have any change on me. These are people and by responding I keep track of that. One time a woman actually responded "bullshit" when I said I didn't have any change. I was telling the truth and her response made me a little more callous for a few days.
But my favorite guy, I'm not sure he's actually homeless. His tact is to tell the truth. I pass by him on my way to and from the gym and he often shouts out, "Can somebody help me out here, I'm trying to get inebriated!" The blatant honesty makes me laugh every time. This incantation is often followed with, "I'm tired of lying about cheeseburgers I'm not gonna eat." This is not a new approach of course, but he doesn't hold a sign and let's his voice carry him through. He also seems oddly upbeat, perhaps drunk, all the time.
I feel for anyone who has to struggle with being poor. Especially those who are forced into the streets. The fact that he is able to laugh at his situation says a lot. I just hope it's working and that just maybe he actually is lying and using the money for something more than just a stiff drink.
In breaking news, it rained.
I realize rain doesn't seem like much but literally I had not seen rain since moving here June 3rd. Plenty of fog. No rain. But, precipitation finally fell.
In other news, I think my partner and I sold some TV ideas to Infineon raceway. Not the ones I was hoping to sell. Not the ones she was hoping to sell. The campaign was a direction they had asked for. We quickly created a version that at least could be interesting. Now we have to make it great. And original. I think we can get there.
Also had a good meeting with a smaller client we are trying to grow into a bigger client. They are a men's barbershop but do things a bit different. When you walk in, it feels like a boutique hotel bar. High class, black leather furniture, big screen TVs all over the place. Basically a man room any middle class guy would kill to have. And most upper class guys probably do. Good hair cuts. Good conversations with real guys. They have big dreams and hopefully, we can help make the big thinking real. The gentlemen who own / run the business are quite smart and the type of clients agencies dream about.
It's cool because in both of these instances, I don't think something like this could have happened at my old shop. Too big for either of these clients. But that also has a downside. Neither of these clients have much of anything for production budgets. Which forces some really creative solutions but also limits some of the things you might like to do.
Most of my time has been spent lately on projects and clients which feels pretty good. I've been expanding the social base mostly by having old friends move out here. Three fraternity brothers have made it out here since my arrival. Another friend from Winston is coming out in a week. And the cool part is that I have people to introduce all of them too.
I'm hoping my time out here is filled with these moments of breaking news and firsts. I have my fingers crossed that new experiences happen all the time. So far so good.
In other news, I think my partner and I sold some TV ideas to Infineon raceway. Not the ones I was hoping to sell. Not the ones she was hoping to sell. The campaign was a direction they had asked for. We quickly created a version that at least could be interesting. Now we have to make it great. And original. I think we can get there.
Also had a good meeting with a smaller client we are trying to grow into a bigger client. They are a men's barbershop but do things a bit different. When you walk in, it feels like a boutique hotel bar. High class, black leather furniture, big screen TVs all over the place. Basically a man room any middle class guy would kill to have. And most upper class guys probably do. Good hair cuts. Good conversations with real guys. They have big dreams and hopefully, we can help make the big thinking real. The gentlemen who own / run the business are quite smart and the type of clients agencies dream about.
It's cool because in both of these instances, I don't think something like this could have happened at my old shop. Too big for either of these clients. But that also has a downside. Neither of these clients have much of anything for production budgets. Which forces some really creative solutions but also limits some of the things you might like to do.
Most of my time has been spent lately on projects and clients which feels pretty good. I've been expanding the social base mostly by having old friends move out here. Three fraternity brothers have made it out here since my arrival. Another friend from Winston is coming out in a week. And the cool part is that I have people to introduce all of them too.
I'm hoping my time out here is filled with these moments of breaking news and firsts. I have my fingers crossed that new experiences happen all the time. So far so good.
9.16.2007
Home is where the plane lands
Last weekend I attended a wedding in Philadelphia. Home of Liberty. Cradle of the United States. I was actually in the wedding as a part of my continued JBA studies. For those that are unaware of that acronym, it stands for Jew by Association. This was my second stint.
It was a Jewish / Chinese wedding which gave it a certain flair. Two friends from ad school, Mike and Susan, who make the unlikeliest pair. Until you hear them both laugh. At which point you know they are perfect for each other.
Being in the wedding, and flying from the left coast, I didn't have much time to explore. Friday morning, I did manage a quick breakfast with my man Bill. Dutch country French toast floating in a kiddie sized pool of butter. Bill moved to Philly to be Head Art Director Honcho and Master of All Things Virginia Tech at an agency called Stick and Move. A great little shop started by the illustrious Steve O'Connell. Himself a fine man and known for his ability to collect great sums of metal from award shows the general public knows nothing about.
On Friday night, it was great to catch up with several old ad school friends. And to buy them beers. Which were astoundingly cheap. That is to say normal priced. It was also fantastic of my friend Elizabeth to drive all the way from Syracuse just to be my date. That is to say make me look good on the dance floor, meet people awkwardly and be best friends with them in a matter of minutes, stand around a lot as I was off making sure Mike didn't sweat through his tux, generally be wonderful to me and make sure that I didn't get cranky. I can do that at an outside wedding where it's 90+ and I'm wearing a black tux while my precious Tar Heels lose to ECU in the second football game of the season. She handled everything with plenty of grace and charm so I didn't have to. I heard, "She is so lovely," again and again.
Once the happy couple was hitched, dances were danced and cake was eaten, we all went back to the hotel bar for story time and high philosophy. We solved the world's problems, told many tall tales and waited anxiously for Mike and Susan to make an appearance in normal clothes. They did. And left appropriately quickly thereafter. There was a breakfast on Sunday but I missed it as my flight out was set for 8 a.m. and I had to return the rental pig that I had been driving around. Which was bright orange. With Jersey plates. If my driving didn't say I'm an a-hole, the car was screaming it for me. But el pig did have XM radio so I got to hear the last second field goal that sunk my team. Crap car.
Once the car was returned and I made my way to the airport with the other bleary eyed and harried passengers, it was time to check in. At which point the counter person asked where I was headed. "Home, to...San Francisco," was my reply. Hitch and all. I actually had to think to not say North Carolina. And a bit of me was sad. And another bit of me was not. There's a couple things that will never change. Mike will always be loud. Susan will always be razor sharp funny. Elizabeth will always be lovely and NC will always be home.
Just not right now.
It was a Jewish / Chinese wedding which gave it a certain flair. Two friends from ad school, Mike and Susan, who make the unlikeliest pair. Until you hear them both laugh. At which point you know they are perfect for each other.
Being in the wedding, and flying from the left coast, I didn't have much time to explore. Friday morning, I did manage a quick breakfast with my man Bill. Dutch country French toast floating in a kiddie sized pool of butter. Bill moved to Philly to be Head Art Director Honcho and Master of All Things Virginia Tech at an agency called Stick and Move. A great little shop started by the illustrious Steve O'Connell. Himself a fine man and known for his ability to collect great sums of metal from award shows the general public knows nothing about.
On Friday night, it was great to catch up with several old ad school friends. And to buy them beers. Which were astoundingly cheap. That is to say normal priced. It was also fantastic of my friend Elizabeth to drive all the way from Syracuse just to be my date. That is to say make me look good on the dance floor, meet people awkwardly and be best friends with them in a matter of minutes, stand around a lot as I was off making sure Mike didn't sweat through his tux, generally be wonderful to me and make sure that I didn't get cranky. I can do that at an outside wedding where it's 90+ and I'm wearing a black tux while my precious Tar Heels lose to ECU in the second football game of the season. She handled everything with plenty of grace and charm so I didn't have to. I heard, "She is so lovely," again and again.
Once the happy couple was hitched, dances were danced and cake was eaten, we all went back to the hotel bar for story time and high philosophy. We solved the world's problems, told many tall tales and waited anxiously for Mike and Susan to make an appearance in normal clothes. They did. And left appropriately quickly thereafter. There was a breakfast on Sunday but I missed it as my flight out was set for 8 a.m. and I had to return the rental pig that I had been driving around. Which was bright orange. With Jersey plates. If my driving didn't say I'm an a-hole, the car was screaming it for me. But el pig did have XM radio so I got to hear the last second field goal that sunk my team. Crap car.
Once the car was returned and I made my way to the airport with the other bleary eyed and harried passengers, it was time to check in. At which point the counter person asked where I was headed. "Home, to...San Francisco," was my reply. Hitch and all. I actually had to think to not say North Carolina. And a bit of me was sad. And another bit of me was not. There's a couple things that will never change. Mike will always be loud. Susan will always be razor sharp funny. Elizabeth will always be lovely and NC will always be home.
Just not right now.
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