the mind of eu·phe·mism

Be good to the servant, but masters don't get it.

2009-01-03T19:58:00.000-08:00

The Philadelphia Inquirer:
Images from the public- service campaign show an Indian driver with a bit in his mouth and an Ethiopian maid kneeling in a doghouse.

"The man behind the television announcements and newspaper inserts says that it is time for Saudis to stop ignoring the issue and that their Muslim faith should compel them to act."

Advertising Executive, Kaswara al-Khatib

Kasawara al-Khatib has good intentions when he created this Public Service Announcement. Especially since he is addressing the abuse of Saudi employers towards their servants. Yet, I don't think this PSA poster/image does its job. I believe it would have been more effective if a Saudi person was in the position of the servant on a leech, to remind these employers that servants are human just like them. To put them in their place and let them think, "what if that was me."

Good idea Mr. Kaswara al-Khatib, but I hope you can create a stronger image to make the Saudi people think... with out getting arrested by the government of course. We don't want you to disappear into the night.

Sometimes I feel like a poet ... then Dragons come.

2009-01-02T16:35:00.000-08:00

Dark day in Camelot.

Why so down, princess?
The New Year polish must have worn off.
Now you must look into the future,
to see that odds are against us.

As the song goes,
Stand up and don't give up the fight.
If you want it,
It will come to light.
These dark days will remain dark,
if you refuse to create a spark.

So please get out of your rut
and figure this thing out.
Camelot is on the other side,
so jump on your horse and let us ride.

By: Euphemism
To: Anime

Decided to make this poem off the top of my head to my lady "Anime." I know it's terrible, but I've started getting some interest in spoken words as of late and thought I could dedicate a poem to her. She's getting over-whelmed with graduation and having to find a career either in London or in the USA. I just hope she knows that I'm here to help and I hope she OR you don't think this poem is too horrible.

PICTURE OF THE DAY:

Confectionery monster at a cookie bakery in Annapolis, Maryland, USA.

I decided to go and visit Annapolis, Maryland today and see what's up with that city. I was amused at its architecture and European atmosphere. I wish I had more time to spend there but sadly, my meter was running out and I didn't see any point in eating at any of the expensive restaurants with out a date. So I departed, but not before I saw the coolest Starbucks location I have ever seen. Come back tomorrow to see that image. =)

Till then... Day 2 complete.

New Year Resolution

2009-01-01T16:29:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

It is a new year and a new day for me. I've been neglecting this blog as of late due to vacation and my own desire to hide how boring my life has been of late. I've been partying it up in the Washington D.C. area. Although I've made a New Years Resolution to try and write an article on the blog for everyday of the year. Like a journal to share with you my thoughts and the most interesting news article I've found online.
I don't usually believe in resolutions for the new year... because it just sets us up for failure. Yet, I've decided that until I close this blog... I will try to:

Post an entry everyday
Include an image with that entry everyday.
Share at least ONE interesting article for that day, then provide my analysis of the situation.

I hope this first entry can help guide me for the year to come.

Happy New Year everyone!!!!

Today:

I just got some rest from the party and drinking of New Year's Eve. On New Year's Eve I chose to eat some Sushi at Asahi Sushi in Baltimore, on Broadway street at Fells Point. Then rolled into Green Turtle to watch the clock strike 12, while girls in skimpy outfits fall to the ground in a drunken stupor.

New Year's day... I relaxed, ran some errands and then sat in a Starbucks to read a good portion of this book titled, "The Afghan." A really interesting fictional book that incorporates the history of Afghanistan, England, America, Taliban and Al Qaeda as a back drop for a really interesting story. In an almost layman method, he explains how the western society found itself in Afghanistan after 9/11 and how Al Qaeda came to power. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in espionage and history.

been gone

2008-12-19T07:16:00.000-08:00

I've been M.I.A.

I went to Washington DC, Baltimore, and New York City recently. Got a chance to hang out at KATZ Deli... which is where the orgasm scene occurred in "When Harry Met Sally."

Anyways, I found this awesome blog about home decoration... enjoy!

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/la

2008-11-23T21:16:00.000-08:00

Hi guys! Sorry to leave you for so long. Haven't blogged since post election day. Been busy. I'm actually in Washington D.C., hoping to be around for the inaguration day.

I just want to say to everyone. If you love someone, please love them back. Don't be afraid to stick your neck out to tell them you love them. May it be a lover or your children. Our time on this earth is too short to play games and be aloof.

I recently realized that I was putting out more effort than the other person, but I have no regrets. Because I always told them how much I loved them... and when that wasn't enough, I showed them through actions. I just think we both had a different definition of Love.

I personally think Love conquers all. If BOTH people are trying to make love work... then it will be fine. But if only one person is making the effort and the other person is stagnant or just unwilling to do something on behalf of love.. then I question if its love.

I can and will do anything for my woman, all I ask is the same in return. If that is your situation, then you are ahead of me and the curve. I know women still exist who love passionately and not ashamed to love their man... I hope I can find that girl someday.

Obama Election Night

2008-11-12T04:29:00.000-08:00

During the election day of Nov. 4, 2008 I was in London, England (don't worry I did early voting). I stayed up until 4am to watch the election results. All my British friends fell asleep, yet I stayed on to watch Obama win Ohio and then California.

I was amazed at the interest of the British people with our election. Then again, the whole world was watching as America was about to elect the first colored man into the most powerful office in the world. Everyone knew this was a historical moment. It really did give people hope.

BBC, SKY One, and ITV4 had their own special programming to cover the election. My favorite moment was when BBC brought on John Bolton (ex-UN Secretary) and a British Author, it was a little past midnight in London and the panel looked tired. A field reported made a comment that Palin is the mistake that lost the election for the Republicans. John Bolton was quick to defend Palin and the Republican party, then a civil debate began to unfold before my eyes.

It was interesting because John Bolton got huffy and puffy over a comment that was obvious to everyone, but he refused admit to it. The reporter was only making the point that nominating Palin strengthened the Christian right, but alienated the Republican center. Losing the election, since they failed to attract the people in the center of the party (since the Christian right would vote Republican either way).

Yet, John Bolton was quick to accuse how the reporter had no idea what she was talking about, etc. For a prior UN-Secretary, John Bolton lacks human interaction skills. I found him to be crass and condescending to the people around him, not to mention stubborn. I can only imagine how much of an ass he was to work with in the United Nations. He continued to call for a reporter to be fired, because the reporter tried to ask a republican organizer about their chances for a victory that evening. The Republican organizer was elusive in his response and the reporter continued to question him to get a clear and straight forward response. John Bolton thought that was rude of the reporter.

First off, it wasn't that serious. Secondly, he was a reporter... that's what he's supposed to do. GET A STRAIGHT ANSWER! Not let a schmuck get away with elusive responses. We should actually get more reporters like that, who asks the tough questions and state the obvious.

Enough of Mr. Bolton. After the victory, within the next few days I watched programs and news paper articles featuring Mr. Obama and the Democratic Victory. It was amazing to see the interest in our election, they all knew that it would affect them in one way or another. The most touching thing I experienced was a father and daughter behind me on the 207 bus. They sat in the back seat conversing about Obama and the election. Most of the conversation was in Arabic (they were from North Africa I think), yet I got the gist of what the exchange was all about. The father was explaining to his daughter about the American election and why Obama victory was all over the news. He was explaining to her, why the moment was historical.

Because the father knew that this moment was not possible in England or any European country that had white faces in higher office. Articles about institutional racism filled the news paper and how the British government is no where near to having a colored Prime Minister. The father knew that America is still the land of opportunity and equality. That hope can still come from her people. That is when I knew that it was cool to be an American again... not because of Mr. Obama, but because of the American people itself who looked past the color lines, looked past the fear mongering, and walked towards the future together, voting for the first Black President of the United States. Showing the world that we judge people by their character and not by the color of their skin.

As I write this blog entry, I am filled with emotion imagining fathers and mothers explaining to their kids the significance of this election. Explaining to their child that hard work, education and dedication can get you ahead. That anything is still possible in America. Terrorist or not, they can't deny that such a feat could never happen in their countries, may it be in the Middle East, Europe, or Asia.

So to my fellow Americans I say this, "GOOD JOB GUYS! GOOD JOB!"

I'm glad together we voted and showed that progress can me made in 46 years. I hope you are smiling Dr. King, I hope you are smiling.

London 2008: Photo Mayehem I

2008-11-11T21:05:00.000-08:00

On my recent trip to London I decided to take some photos as I walked around the city... Wait, what?

What was I doing in London to begin with? Well, I was there to visit friends, record some B-Roll and take photographs of my friend (codename) Koala for a clothing company she was invited to model/represent.

Here are some of my favorite photos from that trip.

Above: Koala waiting for the bus. I love how the "K" appears behind her.
I didn't notice that when I was taking the photo,
but it works out since her name starts with a K.

Above: I remember reading about this Rodin sculpture
in Art History class. It was nice to see it as I wandered
around the Parliament area.

Above: The Thames River with The Parliament and London Eye.
By this point my digital camera battery died and
had to take this beautiful shot with my iPhone.

Above: Walked by a park on my way to catch the bus, when I turned to see this sight.
The light was just right and realized the scene was majestic.
My digital camera was still dead, so I had to use my iPhone.
I'm so glad that my iPhone was able to capture this beautiful moment.

Above: A cool neon light display of the human vascular system.

Stay tuned as I plan to give you a few images from the photo shoot and my wanderings of the famous Brick Lane. Until next time, stay sexy folks.

London Visit

2008-11-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

So I just got back from London and neglected my blog. I'll try to post some stories and photos on what I did while I was out in United Kingdom.

I did see "Quantum of Solace" before it opened in the USA.
I got to watch how the people in the United Kingdom took so much interest in our elections. While getting rejected from American Election Parties in Fulham.

More stories to come. Sorry to abandon you guys.

London pub

2008-11-01T15:13:00.000-07:00

I'm in a pub in London. Waiting for the Buffalo bar to open up.

Media bias when it comes to reporting crimes.

2008-10-26T16:58:00.000-07:00

Above: Ashley Todd, after alleged attack.

By now, everyone has heard of the McCain supporter who falsified an attack by a (black male) Obama supporter. What's amazing is how quick her story flashed NATIONWIDE. Then how so many republicans and blogger's made comments of how bad Obama supporters are, look at the comments HERE yourself.

Links:
McCain worker attacked, mutilated in PA - Oct. 23, 2008 Campaign Volunteer Faces Charges In Attack Hoax - Oct. 24, 2008

Incredible, right! Well, check this out!

Police investigate political confrontation - Oct. 20, 2008

Three days before Ashley Todd made her false report and making national headlines, an Asian woman working for the Obama Campaign was assaulted as she tried to talk to a resident of Caledonia (A city in Racine County, Wisconsin). For full story, read the link above.

My question is, why didn't this make the headlines, but a woman attacked by an Obama supporter makes national news?

Is it due to ethnicity? White woman attacked by a Black man VS. Asian woman attacked by a White man?

How about political party? Democrat attack a Republican VS. Republican attack a Democrat?

It's just so disturbing that a white woman attacked makes national news before her accusation can even be verified. Not only that, but everyone was so quick to jump on the band wagon and believe some black man was responsible for this. Let's not forget that her first thought to accuse of the crime are Black-Americans. Not only that, but they are so quick to try and portray her as a victim of mental illness. What's wrong with just saying she's a dumb-ass racist caught in her own lie?

THEN... we have this Asian-American woman attacked in broad daylight... WITH WITNESSES! A confirmed attack. Yet, we hear nothing about it on the national news. Is the media biased? I thought the media was liberal left wing? But a white male attacks a woman (Asian-American) it doesn't make the news or outrage... maybe suppressed or ignored by national media.

But when a white woman is attacked, the media is quick to jump on the story and build some form of racial tension to hunt down this mysterious black attacker. What the f**K? Seriously, people? I'm glad to see that a lot of people didn't jump on the bandwagon and pick up their torches. At the same time, I am so disappointed with the news organizations who circulated this story with out waiting for the investigation to be complete AND/OR ignoring the other attack that occurred three days prior to that liar Ashley Todd.

No wonder people read the Internet to get their news, instead of watching it or reading the news paper. Stop race baiting and do equal cover on stories. If you will broadcast an attack on a white woman who supports the McCain campaign on national TV, include the other attacks that has occurred to Obama supporters.

Driving in Los Angeles

2008-10-24T22:47:00.000-07:00

Driving around downtown Los Angeles, California. These signs/murals caught my eye. From my moving car I snapped these photos, luckly no one from the LAPD caught me.

Early Voting: No Lines, No Hassle.

2008-10-24T20:40:00.001-07:00

Today was a very important day. I voted in a very historical election. An election where a Black man might actually be the President of the United States. Fifty-Three years since the start of the Civil Rights movement in 1955, Senator Barak Obama leads in the polls.

I decided to vote early, since I wasn't sure if I will be in town on Election Day. Besides, how can I risk missing out on this historical event. If you are interested in voting before November 4, 2008 please go online and find your county voter register office. If you live in Orange County, CA like myself you can find it at:

www.OCVOTE.com

There you can find information on how to register and early voting. Which will give you a list of locations to chose from, allowing you to vote early at these sites. I chose to vote at the Anaheim City Hall and it was quick and easy. I did not wait in line and they found my name right away.

Anaheim City Hall
Vote Early, November 4, 2008 General Election (October 19-28)

HOURS

Monday thru Friday, 8a-5p. CLOSED WEEKENDS.

ADDRESS

200 S. Anaheim Boulevard #217
Anahiem, CA 92805

SPECIFIC LOCATION

Located at the City Clerk counter on the second level. Park on level 2B of the City Hall East parking structure and cross the pedestrian bridge.

DIRECTIONS

Map provided courtesy of expedia.com maps.

WHAT TO EXPECT & WHAT TO BRING

Find out what services are provided at an Early Voting site, as well as what information you will need to provide in order to vote early.

Once you walk up to the counter, they ask for your ID and proof of residency. I showed them the registration notice I received in the mail. I also had to fill out a form that said, "I haven't received my voter packet."

Which I didn't get until I returned home from City Hall. I then went up to an electronic voting booth and entered a 4 digit security/ID number into the box. This prompted the the first question, "Obama/Biden or McCain/Palin?"

I proceed to use the selector wheel and then hit "enter."

I continue the procedure several times, voting on important measures that covered the environment, rail system, Children's hospital, gay marriage (prop 8), and abortion notification (prop 4). Then upon submitting the ballot electronically and confirming it twice. A print out appears for you to proof read. Then you finally confirm a third and final time, your vote is submitted and the paper print out is deposited with a bar-code, amongst the other voters who used that machine.

Upon completing and submitting my ballot, I felt a tingle wash over my body. Because I realized that I just participated in a historic moment in American (if not World) History. How often can a person know that this day, you became part of history.

So I tell you my fellow Americans... VOTE if not on Nov. 4th, 2008. Vote on the days BEFORE November 4, 2008!!!

God Bless America.

Badass Helmet

2008-10-12T22:28:00.000-07:00

This is the hottest helmet I've seen. I plan to rock this helmet if/when I ever get a motorcycle.

This is all made possible by the company Santiago Chopper from Gibsonton, Florida. Although they have a terrible concept of web design. Their bikes and products are beautiful. I'm sure to get a few things from them once I get my motorcycle license in the near future. Vroom, vroom!

Visiting the real world on my day off

2008-10-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

Today was my day off after working 6 days straight for a week. Most of my days were between 12 to 14 hours long. *sigh*

That's the film industry.

So today, I just caught up on sleep and relaxed. I was hoping to have a chance to talk to my very lovely friend ANIME (because she has large eyes and cute as an Japanese Anime character). Sadly, she left her laptop charger in her local Starbucks, so I couldn't speak to her... since her laptop died in the middle of our Skype conversation.

Finally got caught up on my laundry, had a wonderful mexican lunch, then had some delicious Tiramisu from my brothers Birthday cake. I just really wish I had a chance to wash my car. *sigh*

Then I wanted to look up some webseries on youtube.com, but instead I found a very compelling series about the struggle in Burma. I thought I could share it with you.

What did you think?

Then, I saw this youtube.com link to Will.I.Am's video contest?!?! It's in hopes to end poverty. I wish them the best of luck... but I myself am a realist and think that as long as we have overpopulation and corporations. Poverty cannot be avoided. Yet, I salute people who wants to try and make life easier for the poor. I think the best thing is having the support and structure available for those who want to get out of their poverty. That being said, here is Will.I.Am of the Black Eye Peas.

http://www.youtube.com/inmyname

2008-10-06T00:26:00.000-07:00

I was working on Melrose Blvd. the other day... then who do I see park on a red zone, jump out of his bently, jay-walk thorought traffic in his "Orange" outfit. Then disappear into a mobile store.

Well it was no other than Will-I-AM of the Black Eye Peas. He took a moment to sign autographs and take pictures with fans on the sidewalk.

Driving with stupid.

2008-10-02T01:24:00.000-07:00

We were filming on location and we had all the film gear on the sidewalk. Cameramen moving about with their equipment. When suddenly I hear over the radio, "Stop. Everyone stay where you are. Nobody move."

After looking at my fellow crew for a few minutes and hearing radio silence. We got curious and walked out into the street. The scene was quite surprising and unexpected.

There was the Assistant Director, Set Medic, and Production Assistant (who went to EMT training) hoovering over a man. I shout, "What happened?"

Someone responded that an old man was hit by a car. When I asked where the car was, they pointed to a car with a young man standing outside of his car. Nervous and in shock. I instructed him to pull to the side of the street and park his car. Once he did that, I asked him to step outside of the car and sit/stand in the side walk.

From there I noticed the stupidity of LA drivers. Not only with this driver, who was so absorbed in watching our film crew as he made a left turn, that he hit an old man crossing the street. THEN! These Los Angeles drivers on Melrose decided to get upset that we closed off one lane to protect the medic and the old man. Then people refused to slow down or would speed up as they got to the traffic police. Some people are just complete idiots and douche bags. FULL STOP.

When you're beyond tired.

2008-09-29T23:43:00.000-07:00

It's 11:42 PM. I've been awake since 4:45 AM. Been working since 5AM. Ran around Melrose Place. Ran into Joey Pantelleone and Will-I-Am from the "Black Eye Peas" today. Picked up a second shift, where half of my shift is just on call and hopefully sleeping. I passed tired about 4 hours ago, but for some reason... I'm still functioning. I guess I have no life but work at the moment.

Yes, it's sad.

Anyways... I can't imagine how difficult it will be to wake me up tomorrow morning. I'm gonna be in a coma. LoL.

Break it down for me Doc!

2008-09-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

I took a personality test today and here is my result. I can't complain about it really. Try it out yourself.

Genuine Inventor

About you:

You are an Inventor
Your imagination, self-reliance, openness to new things, and appreciation for utility combine to make you an INVENTOR.
You have the confidence to make your visions into reality, and you are willing to consider many alternatives to get that done.
The full spectrum of possibilities in the world intrigues you—you're not limited by pre-conceived notions of how things should be.
Problem-solving is a specialty of yours, owing to your persistence, curiosity, and understanding of how things work.
Your vision allows you to identify what's missing from a given situation, and your creativity allows you to fill in the gaps.
Your awareness of how things function gives you the ability to come up with new uses for common objects.
It is more interesting for you to pursue excitement than it is to get caught up in a routine.
Although understanding details is not difficult for you, you specialize in seeing the bigger picture and don't get caught up in specifics.
You tend to more proactive than reactive—you don't just wait for things to come to you.
Your independent streak allows you to make decisions efficiently and to trust your instincts
You're not afraid to let your emotions guide you, and you're generally considerate of others' feelings as well.
You prefer to have time to plan for things, feeling better with a schedule than with keeping plans up in the air until the last minute.
Never one to be found in chic boutiques or trendy clothing stores, you take an extremely practical approach to getting dressed.
You tend to believe that things happen for a reason, and that not everything is under our control.

If you want to be different:

Try applying your creativity to more artistic arenas, and letting your imagination take less practical forms.

How you relate to others:

You are Genuine
Your outgoing personality, your preference for order, and your cautious appreciation of others makes you GENUINE.
You aren't afraid to occasionally be the center of attention. You are comfortable and confident in social situations.
As a charismatic kind of person, you tend to be energized by other people and enjoy their company.
When other people are upset, you are able to think about the situation rationally, without getting too caught up in their feelings.
At times you find it difficult to understand where other people are coming from, and wish they could just see things the way you do.
You are a strongly principled person who believes in right and wrong. This helps you make decisions easily when it comes to moral issues – you don't have to waste time hedging on important values.
In your experience, people tend to get what they deserve. Because of this, you work hard and try to follow your principles in your day-to-day life, knowing that you will be rewarded for your efforts.

If you want to be different:

You have many friends, but you only trust a few of these people when it really counts. Opening yourself up to more of your friends will help you create more strong and meaningful relationships.
Be cautious when judging someone—try harder to understand his or her perspective—and you will become a more intuitive person.

Need shirts to wear.

2008-09-27T12:25:00.000-07:00

Long hours at work... the other day this week, I worked 15 hours and then had to wake up at 4am the next morning. Ugh!

In the mean time, I'm actually getting overtime. That's a relief.

On my ONE day off during the week, I decided to find these t-shirt designs for the ladies. *LOL*

Below are a few from cafepress.com - Asian Collection.

Cafepress.com - Filipino Collection

Fancy that. It got shot down.

2008-09-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

Guess what! My idea of the "3 rule" was totally shot down the other day (Friday). I was waiting for a third bad news and expecting this "break" to not happen. But instead of just sitting and waiting for it to happen. I did something about it and got my job.

Saturday morning, I started working for my first television show as a Production Assistant. Finally, broke in to the industry with an entry level position to gain more experience. Please don't ask me what show I'm working on or what it's about... because I can't tell you. I'll just get tired of denying you and start telling you some bullshit answer to entertain myself and make you look stupid later. My coworkers are great except one guy who heads the lighting department. Two words: Napoleon Complex.

As much as I hate using that word, this guy is just a dick. Whines and bitches about why he's not able to do this or that... as if I have anything to do about it. I just tell him what is told from my chain of command. If he has a problem, bring it up with my boss or the Producer. Don't speak under your breath or out loud to pretend to make me feel guilty... cuz I don't give a shit. Since, I'm following my orders and doing my job.

What I will bring to you are quotes I get from set in film format. Let's begin:

INT. CAR - NIGHT

PA 1 (Short Male, Denim Jeans, and black shirt), PA 2 (Slender Female, perky breasts, tank top, dirty BOX blond hair), Line Producer ( Husky Male, zip up sweater, jeans) walk out of a production house carrying various products in hand.

PA 1
How is that a Viking name?

PA 2
Because they do!

PA 1
The last one you read, maybe! But the names you read before that?
Not Viking. Hamm and anything with a "...ski" on it, is not a viking name.

PA 2
What would it be?

PA 1
Those are Germanic names. From Germany.

PA 2
No they aren't.

PA 1 and Line Producer
What?

PA 2
Those aren't, I swear.

PA 1
Dude! Those names were Germanic... Eastern European in origin.

PA 2
(surprised)
What! Eastern Europe is China and shit. Those aren't Chinese names.

PA 1 and Line Producer look at each other in shock. They both smirk.

PA 1
Are you serious? Really?

PA 2
Yeah.
Line Producer
Uhm. That is Eastern Europe.

PA 1
No its not!

EXT. PRODUCTION HOUSE - NIGHT

The group walk out to the front doorstep of the house.

Line Producer and PA 1
What is Germany and the countries next to it then?
PA 1
Dude! Viking Countries are Norway, Sweden, and Finland. That's North Europe.

PA 2
No it's not. Germany is like Europe... and Viking Countries are the North West Europe.
Oh, I forgot something... I need to run back inside.

Line Producer and PA 1 just look at each other and nod in disbelief.

FADE TO BLACK

FADE IN

INT. CAR - NIGHT

Line Producer is sitting in the driver seat, PA 1 is sitting on passenger seat, and PA 2 is moving around in the back seat trying to get comfortable. PA 2 begins to rummage through the back of the car.

PA 2
Oh my gawd! Is this a China man hat?

Silence lingers in the car for a moment.

Line Producer
Uhm, yeah.

PA 1 begins to laugh sarcastically.

PA 1
I don't think that's called a China man Hat.

Line Producer
It's called a rice field worker hat.

PA 2
No it's not! It's a China man Hat.

PA 1
Uhm, dude! No one uses that word. Do you know the equivalent of that word?

Line Producer
Yeah, that's pretty much an insult and people don't like to hear that word.

PA 2
What?

PA 1
Yeah. That's a derogatory term.

PA 2
Dude. It's not racist. I can't be racist.

PA 1
Why not?
PA 2
Because I'm Hispanic! I'm such a mutt that I can't be racist.

Line Producer and PA 1 look at each other and nod their head in disbelief.

FADE TO BLACK

It's safe to say that we stopped trying to educate her and let her believe that China is Eastern Europe.

Then we were too tired to debate her on how stupid it was to think that just because you are a person of color, you can't be racist. I personally think that is the dumbest shit in the world. To think that a person of color is unable to discriminate another human being due to their color being different from theirs. I've met plenty of Hispanics, Blacks, and Asians who are bigots in their own right.

By definition, she is right I suppose... because by definition. Racist people would have to be in a position of power and use that to influence hold down a group of people. Yet she is still quite the bigot for saying what she said. Since you are reinforcing the use of a racial slur. Justifying to others that it's okay to use a racial slur. Same can be said for using the word n**gger, we**ack, sp**k, ch**k... etc.

Perpetuating racial stereotypes and believing you can't be a bigot due to the shade of your skin is just pure stupidity.

FULL STOP.

"Leave out all the rest" is what I need to do.

2008-09-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

So today I got some bad news. Yesterday I got bad news. I'm just waiting for the third bad news, which I expect to arrive later today. *sigh*

You see, I believe in the rule of three... Three really great things happened to me last week (all related to each other) and this week I'm finding out that they will all be taken back... Just waiting for the last and best one of the bunch to be taken.

Oh well, I just found this beautiful Linkin Park Video. It made me feel better and reminded me to just "leave out all the rest" and move on to the next.

Palin Privaledge - Did you know she had one?

2008-09-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

The following message was posted on a Bulletin Board. The article talks about the double standards being placed on the Presidential candidates. Especially when it comes to Sarah Palin, the darling of the Republican Party at the moment. A lot of the things mentioned in this article have brought to my attention how Palin's rise would be impossible for most folks.

Tim Wise is quite an interesting man himself. I've never heard of him or his lectures, but I found a lecture/speech on youtube.com and attached it below too. It makes you realize that the media is still playing softball with the candidates(esp. Palin).

After reading the article and the youtube clip. Please comment. I want to know what you think about the presidential race after reading this.

==============================================================

This is Your Nation on White Privilege

By Tim Wise
9/13/08

For those who still can't grasp the concept of white privilege, or who are constantly looking for some easy-to-understand examples of it, perhaps this list will help.

White privilege is when you can get pregnant at seventeen like Bristol Palin and everyone is quick to insist that your life and that of your family is a personal matter, and that no one has a right to judge you or your parents, because "every family has challenges," even as black and Latino families with similar "challenges" are regularly typified as irresponsible, pathological and arbiters of social decay.

White privilege is when you can call yourself a "fuckin' redneck," like Bristol Palin's boyfriend does, and talk about how if anyone messes with you, you'll "kick their fuckin' ass," and talk about how you like to "shoot shit" for fun, and still be viewed as a responsible, all-American boy (and a great son-in-law to be) rather than a thug.

White privilege is when you can attend four different colleges in six years like Sarah Palin did (one of which you basically failed out of, then returned to after making up some coursework at a community college), and no one questions your intelligence or commitment to achievement, whereas a person of color who did this would be viewed as unfit for college, and probably someone who only got in in the first place because of affirmative action.

White privilege is when you can claim that being mayor of a town smaller than most medium-sized colleges, and then Governor of a state with about the same number of people as the lower fifth of the island of Manhattan, makes you ready to potentially be president, and people don't all piss on themselves with laughter, while being a black U.S. Senator, two-term state Senator, and constitutional law scholar, means you're "untested."

White privilege is being able to say that you support the words "under God" in the pledge of allegiance because "if it was good enough for the founding fathers, it's good enough for me," and not be immediately disqualified from holding office--since, after all, the pledge was
written in the late 1800s and the "under God" part wasn't added until the 1950s--while believing that reading accused criminals and terrorists their rights (because, ya know, the Constitution, which you used to teach at a prestigious law school requires it), is a dangerous and silly idea only supported by mushy liberals.

White privilege is being able to be a gun enthusiast and not make people immediately scared of you. White privilege is being able to have a husband who was a member of an extremist political party that wants your state to secede from the Union, and whose motto was "Alaska first," and no one questions your patriotism or that of your family, while if you're black and your spouse merely fails to come to a 9/11 memorial so she can be home with her kids on the first day of school, people immediately think she's being disrespectful.

White privilege is being able to make fun of community organizers and the work they do--like, among other things, fight for the right of women to vote, or for civil rights, or the 8-hour workday, or an end to child labor--and people think you're being pithy and tough, but if you merely question the experience of a small town mayor and 18-month governor with no foreign policy expertise beyond a class she took in college--you' re somehow being mean, or even sexist.

White privilege is being able to convince white women who don't even agree with you on any substantive issue to vote for you and your running mate anyway, because all of a sudden your presence on the ticket has inspired confidence in these same white women, and made them
give your party a "second look."

White privilege is being able to fire people who didn't support your political campaigns and not be accused of abusing your power or being a typical politician who engages in favoritism, while being black and merely knowing some folks from the old-line political machines in Chicago means you must be corrupt.

White privilege is being able to attend churches over the years whose pastors say that people who voted for John Kerry or merely criticize George W. Bush are going to hell, and that the U.S. is an explicitly Christian nation and the job of Christians is to bring Christian theological principles into government, and who bring in speakers who say the conflict in the Middle East is God's punishment on Jews for rejecting Jesus, and everyone can still think you're just a good church-going Christian, but if you're black and friends with a black pastor who has noted (as have Colin Powell and the U.S. Department of Defense) that terrorist attacks are often the result of U.S. foreign policy and who talks about the history of racism and its effect on black people, you're an extremist who probably hates America. White privilege is not knowing what the Bush Doctrine is when asked by a reporter, and then people get angry at the reporter for asking you such a "trick question," while being black and merely refusing to give one-word answers to the queries of Bill O'Reilly means you're dodging the question, or trying to seem overly intellectual and nuanced.

White privilege is being able to claim your experience as a POW has anything at all to do with your fitness for president, while being black and experiencing racism is, as Sarah Palin has referred to it a "light" burden.

And finally, white privilege is the only thing that could possibly allow someone to become president when he has voted with George W. Bush 90 percent of the time, even as unemployment is skyrocketing, people are losing their homes, inflation is rising, and the U.S. is increasingly isolated from world opinion, just because white voters aren't sure about that whole "change" thing. Ya know, it's just too vague and ill-defined, unlike, say, four more years of the same, which is very concrete and certain.

White privilege is, in short, the problem.

Tim Wise is the author of White Like Me (Soft Skull, 2005, revised 2008), and of Speaking Treason Fluently, publishing this month, also by Soft Skull.

What's wrong with Goths today?!?!

2008-09-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

OMFG! This is really disturbing that these people actually believe in this stuff.

Teens eaten by satanists
By LYNSEY HAYWOOD

Published: 15 Sep 2008

A VILE gang of devil worshippers has killed and eaten four Russian teenagers in a sickening ritual.

The Satanists stabbed each of their victims a terrifying 666 times before dismembering their bodies and cooking them on a bonfire.
Russian cops discovered the teenager's limbs, hearts and scalps in a pit in the Yaroslavl region around 300 miles from Moscow, along with the dead body of a small rodent crucified on an upside-down cross.
The victims, three girls and one boy, all aged 16 and 17, disappeared from their homes in June.
But police only discovered the remains of Anya Gorokhova, Olga Pukhova, Varya Kuzmina and Andrei Sorokin last month.
The four pals – described as "Goths" – were lured one by one to a country cottage and were allegedly forced to get drunk before the revolting ritual began.
Hair from the victims was apparently found in the embers of the bonfire.
Cops arrested eight Satan worshippers in connection with the killings after finding out that all four victims had telephoned Nikolai Ogolobyak, the alleged leader of the Satan gang. His apartment lies just 250 metres from where their remains were discovered.
One of the arrested Satanists said: "Satan will help me to avoid responsibility, I made lots of sacrifices to him."
Gravediggers
Another suspect – Alexander Voronovic – said the gang had previously dug up a dead girl's grave and eaten her heart and a third suspect said he turned to Satan because praying to God did not make him rich.
He said: "I tried to turn to God, but it didn't bring me any money. I prayed to Satan, and things improved."

"Did he ever bother to consider it was because he felt more confident after praying to 'Satan' that things started improving for him. All due to the human psyche rather than some spiritual hand."

Teachers of the alleged Satanists said all had been moody at school and of lower than average intelligence.

"Go figure!"

Ogolobyak had previously been in his local church choir, according to his grandmother. All the dead knew Ogolobyak and other members of the Satanist gang.
The distraught father of victim Andrei Sorokin said: "My son said he knew some Goths, and that he had Goths and Satanists among his friends.
"I wasn't scared. I thought 'Well, let him spend his time sitting around in a cemetery, there's not much harm in that is there?'"

I guess those kids proved him wrong.

Love to the living

2008-09-16T14:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spoke to a woman very close to my heart and listened to her story about fighting with her family for petty and insignificant things. She couldn't understand why they got on her nerves so much.

It took me a while to process what or why her "blow up" disturbed me. Especially when I wasn't as upset as I thought I would be when she told me that her sister shouted, "You don't have to be a bitch because your friend died."

Oh, let me explain that last party. You see, she had a close friend of hers from high school died recently in an automobile accident a few days before his 22nd Birthday. A total shock and surprise to the community, family, and friends. After hearing of the news, my friend became melancholy and very emotional. Crying, holding herself insider her room, not eating, and lamenting how she wished for him to return and dedicating songs to him on her facebook and blog.

So now that you're caught up on the situation, let me continue.

She told me that it has been around two years since she last saw or heard from this fellow, until this past summer where she was supposed to meet up with him to catch up... but sadly, they never got the chance to meet-up. Partly due to her having to leave early to see her ex-boyfriend "Panda" in Los Angeles.

Now her continuous lamenting and sad demeanor had me thinking. Why is she so sad about someone she hadn't spoken to in a couple of years. Was she feeling guilty for not meeting up with him? Does she blame herself and her ex for leaving her hometown so soon for L.A.? Then I realized that maybe women just process grief differently from men. Maybe women are just more emotional about things.

Yet, when she told me about what happened to her and her family. Especially what the younger sister said to her... it hit a nerve in me. I could swear there was a message in there. I had to sleep on it to figure it out, but I realized what it was this morning.

I realized her sister had a point.

My friend had gone into such a funk after the accident that probably neglected the interaction with her family. In any case it got me thinking, when people die and people mourn we have the tendency to focus on the dead and how we may have failed them. How we never got a chance to say goodbye or how much we love them. Then people get very introspective and guilt ridden, forcing them to fall into a sadness of thinking how life will be like with out that person in this world.

I know, because I've gone through the same scenario with my death and loved one's death. Call me cold and callus, but I just can't imagine crying for a person I didn't really communicate with for the last several years. Not only that, but I believe if we placed as much effort on the living then we wouldn't have to feel so guilty about the dead.

What I'm basically saying is that we should all pay attention to our loved ones while they are alive. So we don't have to cry and feel so much guilt when they die. Because I believe death is their way of ascending to heaven and a chance to celebrate their life, rather than mourn their death. Although this would be especially difficult for people who are victims of a violent crime and/or accident. Yet we need to focus on the gift of life.

Focus on the love who are still with you on this world. They are the ones we need to show and share the love with everyday... I just hope my friend gets past the mourning stage for her friend and refocus that energy to her loved ones sharing this life with her.

My condolences. We (and I) love you too.

Dirty Tricks!

2008-09-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

Faux Pollsters target Jewish population of Florida.

This is just disturbing and disgusting. That some people will tarnish the name of math and statistics to gain political advantage.

Using lies, hate, and discrimination these people try to target Jewish voters and insult their intelligence by pretending to be a statistician (with no bias), only to implant seeds of doubt and discord in their minds... trying to link Obama to Terrorist Groups.

Disturbing sight of the day.

2008-09-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

I was reading KCAL9 website for the news. They had a photos section of the LA Erotica convention that just passed. Why not? It had photos of lovely women in skin tight and close to nothing outfits... right?!?! What harm could it do.

Until I saw this and nearly lost my breakfast... that is, if I had eaten breakfast.

Grandma, please retire. I don't want the
kids to keep teasing me at school.

Housewife vs Palin, while Republicans wish they were on TV.

2008-09-07T01:33:00.000-07:00

A letter from a Wasilla, Alaska housewife regarding Sarah Palin:
Here is a letter from a housewife who has faced Palin when she was in City Council. She fought Palin in 1996 when Palin tried to remove a City Librarian from her job because the Librarian refused to remove certain books from circulation that Palin wanted removed. If you want to read the whole article click the link above (WARNING: It's long, but worth reading.)

Below are some of the bullet points that she provided. Giving the reader an idea on Gov. Palin's history of policy. [Spelling and grammar are all based on original text]

CLAIM VS FACT
"Hockey mom": true for a few years
"PTA mom": true years ago when her first-born was in elementary school, not since
"NRA supporter": absolutely true
social conservative: mixed. Opposes gay marriage, BUT vetoed a bill that would have denied benefits to employees in same-sex relationships (said she did this because it was unconsitutional).
pro-creationism: mixed. Supports it, BUT did nothing as Governor to promote it.
"Pro-life": mixed. Knowingly gave birth to a Down’s syndrome baby BUT declined to call a special legislative session on some pro-life legislation
"Experienced": Some high schools have more students than Wasilla has residents. Many cities have more residents than the state of Alaska. No legislative experience other than City Council. Little hands-on supervisory or managerial experience; needed help of a city administrator to run town of about 5,000.
political maverick: not at all gutsy: absolutely!
open & transparent: ??? Good at keeping secrets. Not good at explaining actions.
Has a developed philosophy of public policy: no
"a Greenie": no. Turned Wasilla into a wasteland of big box stores and disconnected parking lots.
Is pro-drilling off-shore and in ANWR.
fiscal conservative: not by my definition!
pro-infrastructure: No. Promoted a sports complex and park in a city without a sewage treatment plant or storm drainage system.
Built streets to early 20th century standards.
pro-tax relief: Lowered taxes for businesses, increased tax burden on residents
pro-small government: No. Oversaw greatest expansion of city government in Wasilla’s history.
pro-labor/pro-union. No. Just because her husband works union doesn’t make her pro-labor. I have seen nothing to support any claim that she is pro-labor/pro-union.

If you want to read who this author is, CLICK HERE!

VS.

Walter Reed High School vs. Walter Reed Army Hospital. Why doesn't the RNC organize their slideshow photos before posting them up on a giant green screen? How unprofessional is this event?

The moron who arranges John McCain's slide show during his speech does not know how to use google, nor double check their work. How can they not realize that the slide they chose was Walter Reed High School, not Walter Reed Army Hospital.

Has anyone in his staff served in the military? Visited the injured soldiers in Walter Reed Memorial Hospital during his campaign? If so, why didn't any of them remember what it looked like and avoid this mistake. Maybe they just wanted to imitate a TV show (according to TPM) called WEST WING, where a presidential candidate announced his desire to run for president. Pay attention to the building behind this clip and maybe you can recognize it from the picture.

L.A. Times
Talking Points Memo (TPM)

THE PLOT THICKENS:

Now that the story is picking up steam in the blogsphere. The McCain camp sent out a statement claiming it was not a mistake. According to "The Caucus: A New York Times" Political Blog, the McCain camp made this statement:

Not so, according to campaign spokesman Tucker Bounds, who said the campaign intended to showcase “images of Americana” during the Arizona senator’s remarks.

“The changing image-screen was linked to the American thematics of the speech and the public school was simply part of it,” Mr. Bounds said, adding that during the speech, Mr. McCain “called for public education reforms that empower parents and students before bureaucrats and labor unions.”

Yet, the school did not give them permission... nor was the school asked permission to be used by the political party. Then, why did no other slides appear after the school image went away? The high school has actually set up a website to notify the public/parents that the school does not endorse a political campaign. I think they really did make a mistake... they just can't admit their failure... just like in their politics/policies.

Go figure.

White Elephant Garage Sale

2008-09-06T21:50:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to attend a friend's garage sale, which is called the "Annual White Elephant."

Why it's called "White Elephant?" I don't know, but it must be a euphemism for "silent auction."

Because that's exactly what it is.

People basically bring things they want to get rid of and combine it with other people's junk. Then they walk around, look at other people's junk and write down their bid for anything they are interested in. Some bids start at $1, while others at $5. Yet in the end, there were tons of free stuff that people took home that belonged to someone else.

So no one really got rid of anything from their home... they only changed the item that occupies that space in their garage.

Picks from the WHITE ELEPHANT event:
1) Straw Fedora.
2) Chinese landscape painting.
3) Chinese calligraphy: "Nobel man, must act in a Nobel way."

[Please correct if I'm wrong and post a proper translation.]

Like the Phoneix...

2008-09-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

My OAKLEY's sunglasses has returned... more like found in my expansive backpack. I guess I didn't search it as well as I thought I did. I'm just glad that I can drive down to LA with it and not worry about being blinded by the sun.

On a separate note. I was watching an entertainment show and saw a celebrity wearing the same sunglasses... go figure! I didn't think I was trendy, but now that a celeb is wearing it... I must be tready. =P LoL.

Farewell London... for now.

2008-09-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

I submitted a film to the BFI London Film Festival and have been holding my breath for the results since that time. I was contacted by Sarah Lutton (Programme Manager) informing me that our feature documentary was not selected for this years festival. I'm personally sad, since I was really hoping to get a World Premiere in London.

Although it's a bit of a downer... my group and I realized it was a long shot. But hey, why not swing for the fences and try. Right?!?! Anyways, I'm glad we tried. We have several more festivals to wait for before the years end. Wish me/us luck! Thanks!

ON A SEPERATE NOTE:

As I wrote the entry above I was watching the news too. VP Nominee Palin was introducing Presidential Nominee McCain at some small town (which seems to be the routine after the party convention).

As I was listening to her speak, she caught my attention because she started stuttering and fumbling her words. That's when I realized that she was reading a script prepared by some speech writer and like a reporter reading a teleprompter, she read the lines word for word until she stumbled on a word either misspelled or had incorrect grammar. Either way it killed her beat and made me giggle... because I realized what if she was pranked to read a teleprompter with all the wrong things to say. LoL.

RIP Oakley's

2008-09-05T01:17:00.000-07:00

Damn it!!! I'm convinced I lost my only and favorite sunglasses during the music video production. I don't know how or where... but it's gone. It's not in my car or suitcase. *sigh*

Why can't I hold on to sunglasses for at least a year. I always seem to lose them within a few months. GRRRRR. I wish I took the offer from Anime to buy me these really cool aviators that she liked on me.

I must journey on and never stop believing.

2008-09-04T18:56:00.000-07:00

I've recently rediscovered Journey and can't stop listening to them. I even have a channel dedicated to them on my Pandora Account. I learned about them after discovering the amazing story of how they found their new lead singer Arnel Pineda. Google him and find out how amazingly similar it is to the movie "Rockstar."

Anyways, he is an amazing singer, reminiscent of Steve Perry... but not exactly. He has his own style. Journey just comforts me. I remember their songs from my youth and even though they are considered formulaic and Rock-Pop. I've come to realize how much their songs touch me. Like this song, it makes me remember that I shouldn't stop believing. Believing that the future will work itself out and I can do what I set my mind to.

Thanks Journey.

PS: They were even featured on People Magazine.

I need to promote myself to...

2008-09-04T18:13:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am so sore from working yesterday. My knee is really bothering me too.

I will start shooting and producing my own short films... I refuse to be a Production Assistant for the rest of my life. LoL.

Anyways, I made up my mind today that if I am going to do FREE gigs I will only do it as a Producer, Director, DP/Camera Operator, and Assistant Director.... even Assistant Camera. All to build my portfolio.... but I also realize its because I am good at doing these positions. Don't get me wrong, I'm good at being a production assistant(PA's)... but that's only because as a director I know what I want/expect from my own PA's.

I've made up my mind. I'm stepping up my game.

*cue dramatic music*

It's not so easy getting over ....

2008-09-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the days you started working on getting over someone. How bout the days you thought you were over someone, but actually still really into them. Then the time came that you stop avoiding the truth and denying that something was not right.

Well, that happened to me recently. I originally thought it was my ex who was in love with me and couldn't let go, but then I recently realized it was I who couldn't let go. How embarassing.

The separation process or the process of not caring SO much is a process I don't expect to come easily, but I realize it's something I have to do for us to remain friends. It's tough when you realize that you have been the villain when you thought you were the hero. That you've been forcing someone to act a certain way, even feel guilty for habits that come natural to them. All to keep the thought that they are who you think they are or wish them to be.

My heart is so heavy and guilty for doing these things to someone I care about so much. Not to mention how surprised I am with my behavior. At least she still cares about me and we don't hate each other. In the future she will discover her true soul and nature. She will "grow up" as we both refer to it... but at least she will be herself. I may find it attractive or not, that's for the future to decide. What I know NOW is that we will always be friends who love each other regardless of what happens.

PA work is hell... be a doctor.

2008-09-04T14:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I worked on a music video of an upcoming band "S.A." and the band members was wonderful. Yet, I am sore as a Mother F**ker. We started at 6AM and I didn't get out until 11PM. I was the last person on set with exception of two other guys... who were driving the cube trucks we were loading. Other than that, everyone was gone... one other PA even just took off the moment he filled out his time sheet.

We shot in an aircraft carrier the USS Hornet, which is docked in Alameda, CA. Making a music video in a aircraft carrier I learned is hell. PA's do a lot of donkey work, so it's far from glamorous. OMFG. To make matters worse, we had to move equipment through the narrow stairs of the carrier. I think it was doing this that twisted my knee at one point. I had to go most of the day with the pain of a twisted knee. It hurt. But I had to finish the production day. At one point I had a good limp which I tried to hide when people were around. I must have stepped down the ladders wrong while carrying some heavy equipment.

Anyways. I'm healing and I only hope the pain goes away... please no permanent damage. Stay tuned for some cool photos.

Oh ya. I have so much respect for the Cast and Crew of "Top Gun" or any movie made on a Navy Vessel... that has got to a tough production.

Nintendo Fun Club Discovered

2008-09-02T19:47:00.000-07:00

I was digging through my storage unit to dispose of things I didn't need anymore and found this little treasure from the past. It's a membership card to the Nintendo Fun Club, which you got by subscribing to "Nintendo Power" magazine. Some of you old school gamers can confirm this or not.

I can't believe I still have this... and to be honest, I'm not quite sure if I should throw it away or not. I'm having nostalgic feelings about it every time I look at it. What do you guys think? Keep it or throw it away? Put it up on ebay? Give it to my Nephew?!?! Please comment. I want to know what you think.

Anyone else have their Nintendo Fun Club card? I think I find this extra cool, because of the resurgence of Nintendo due to the Wii... but this card is the link to my early childhood gaming days. When I played hours playing games like: Contra, Duck Hunt, Rad Racer, Tiger Heli, and Smash TV. The new generation of gamers have no idea about these games... unless it was remade. Just like the movies.

*sigh* I miss those days of video games.

Alaska is next to Russia. OMFG!

2008-09-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to write about something else other than politics today, but I had to post this up.

I can't believe this FOX NEWS anchor even picked up the same logic. Did he hear it from Cindy McCain? Did McCain's team put this out as a talking point? Is this guy just as naive as Cindy McCain? Where do these guys get their logic?!?!

I love how the other guys expression in response to the comment. He might as well say, "Shut up you idiot!"

Priceless.

McCain's wife, Cindy, joined the ranks of the defenders.

2008-08-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

Noticed in the news today Aug. 31, 2008
Regarding Gov. Palin as a VP pick -

McCain's wife, Cindy, joined the ranks of the defenders.

"The experience that she comes from is with what she's done in the government. And also, remember: Alaska is the closest part of our continent to Russia. So, it's not as if she doesn't understand what's at stake here," she said on ABC's "This Week."

From Yahoo! News - Click here for full article. Click here for Video.

I'll come back to this quote later in the entry. Because there are plenty more lovely quotes in this article from other politicians quoting Obama still has less experience than Palin, while defending McCains choice. One thing I do notice is how the McCain campaign and the republican party have spent more time defending their VP choice than actually talking about issues and why he should be president.

I'm still trying to decide if this is part of the strategy or just a poor miscalculation to try and steal Hillary supporters from the democratic party. What I do know is the difference in public reaction from the nomination of Joe Biden compared to Sarah Palin. There were few questions or doubts when Joe Biden was named by the Obama campaign. Most of the reactions from the media and the parties were positive and understanding.

Yet, when Palin was named a collective reaction of [think Scooby-Do], "HUH?" Played in everyone's minds. C'mon, don't lie... you know you heard it. As did I when I watched it on CNN, then turned to FOX. Still not believing what I heard, went to MSNBC. Then I said to myself, "Wow, McCain is really doing this... he's that desperate."

So desperate that he would actually ignore his own criticism of Obama's inexperience by finding a VP with equal (if not less) experience than his opponent. Basically undermining his message that experience is necessary for the position of Commander in Chief. The main message they have been trying to push during this whole campaign. Now the party will have to spend their time defending the choice of McCain, along with trying to defend this incredibly dense statement by Cindy McCain... a lovely woman... but still...

"The experience that she comes from is with what she's done in the government. And also, remember: Alaska is the closest part of our continent to Russia. So, it's not as if she doesn't understand what's at stake here,"

Is this what the Republican party plans to do in defense of their VP choice? Is this how the McCain campaign going to spend their time? Comparing geographical distances in defense of foreign political experience and cultural awareness? Did they forget that Russia is one LARGE country?!?! The Russia near Alaska is like the penis tip of the body... you are no where near its head/brain (no pun intended) to influence its actions. Except to blow a load all over your face.

To continue this argument, since geographic distance to Russia is what gives Palin the experience to handle Russia. The inverse must be true that the farther countries are from her the less she understands what is going on with that country. That's great, because at least she knows how to handle Canada, N/S Korea, and the Arctic region. The problem is she gets blurry the moment it comes down to Japan, China, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Finland, Sweden. Then she is basically clueless when it comes to Europe, South Pacific, Mexico/Central America, South America... last but not least... poor Australia, Antarctica, and New Zealand, Gov. Palin just won't have a clue what you are about according to Mrs. McCain.

Do you see the dumb logic Mrs. McCain had to pull out of her butt to try and defend Gov. Palin?!?! Too bad it doesn't make sense.

According to Cindy McCain, "The Governator" of California knows all about the Mexican government and has close ties with them because they share a border. Is that the reason why we have such a porous border? Why ethnocentric groups are having such a field day with immigration policies?

If Cindy McCain is correct, then we probably should be concerned that Palin lives so close to Russia. She is within their "sphere of influence" and I wonder if they care about Russian illegal immigration in Alaska or if she just lets them live and settle as they wish within the state.

Hmmmm?!?!?!

Anina Music Video Shoot

2008-08-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

So here I was at the request of my Norwegian Director friend. Me, an Asian-American working on a set full of Norwegians. All blond and over 5'7" I think. I'm the Production Assistant helping the set. The 1st Assistant Director is Filipino-American while the Photographer is Asian-American too. The rest rest are Norwegian, with the exception of one or two black folks to bring diversity on the set.

I do admit that I have a special place in my heart for Swede's... and now Norwegians as well. For being the descendants of Vikings, Northern Europeans are fun, friendly, and generally nice people. Totally unexpected. It was a pleasure working with Anina and Marius the director.

Anina is the talented singer we shot in the music video. She's a beautiful blond with a wonderful voice. Her sound is a rock-pop type, although not a fan of pop, I can hear a great deal of potential with her music. We shot in the famous "Viper Room" and "Beso Restaurant/Lounge" owned by Eva Longoria from "Desperate Housewives."

During the shoot, I left my headlights on and had to get a towing company to jump start my car. Why? Because it happened on Sunset Blvd. one of the busiest streets in L.A., not only that, but my friends battery was on the other side of her car... which meant my 5' jumper cable could not reach her battery.

*MENTAL NOTE: Buy a 20' Jumper Cable*

I got charged $75 for the jump. Luckly, I'm covered by my insurance company.

I'm slated to work on another music video next week. I'll tell you how that goes later.

Obama's Speech and McCain's Pick

2008-08-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

So I watched the Democratic National Convention (DNC) and thought Obama did a great job on his speech. His writers did an excellent job, while he showed his talents as an orator. I don't know what McCain is going to say or how he plans to deliver his speech to top that.

Speaking of McCain... poor ol' Grampa McCain. Could do nothing but Gamble with the Nation and his presidential campaign by picking Governor Palin as his VP running mate. After blasting Obama on his lack of experience, he decides to go with a woman a few years younger than Obama (and McCains own children). All to get the headlines.

Chosing Gov. Palin is clearly a stunt to try and steal the Hillary Vote. A sad act when you think about it... because he has become so desperate for attention and a counter measure to the Obama campaign that he will "go for broke" by chosing a person his party never saw coming.

With McCain's age... I honestly think that Palin is closer to becoming a President than Hillary is... which is a sad truth. Because I would rather have Hillary as the first woman President than some Governor who oversees Oil Companies, Seals, and a population smaller than a California Town.

Palin being VP or even President is a scary thought... especially with the conflict around the world today. I really don't think she has the Foreign/Diplomatic experience to handle world leaders. At least Obamas came from Chicago and Hawaii.... he grew up amongst diverse cultures and ethnicities.... His constituents probably outnumber the whole population of Alaska.

In either case, I would prefer to have Joe Biden as the next in line for President... than Gov. Palin of Alaska... nice try Mr. McCain. I have faith that Hillary Supporters are more educated and not so ignorant as to vote for McCain just because his VP is a woman.

UPDATE: Apparently "Scholars" are questioning McCain's VP choice too. I found out Palin is not the first woman to be chosen as a VP running mate. She is also the least experience in HISTORY. At least Obama has State Senate Experience before joining the US Senate. Palin has none... continue reading on this article "Scholars Question Palin Credentials."

Las Vegas Boxing with Manny Pacquiao

2008-08-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

So where have I been? I've been hanging around partying in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. I've been meaning to put this video up, but just haven't had the time. I must admit that I kinda got bored and lost motivation to write on this blog.

Part 1: Beginning of Round 9.

Part 2: End of the match. Good night Diaz.

Now, I'm back! I've decided to stick it out and have more discipline in posting. Here is a video of Manny Pacquiao in his last fight with David Diaz in July. I'm posting this, because his next fight will be with Oscar "Golden Boy" De La Hoya.

I'm looking for Manny to knock out the Golden Boy as a farewell gift before his retirement. It should be a great fight because its De La Hoya's last fight and it's Manny's first superstar fight in this new weight division.

Check out this site:
http://www.mannypacquiao.ph/
http://philboxing.com/news/story-18641.html

Long time no see.

2008-05-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay. I've been quite busy since my last blog entry. I've started programming myself to wake up early (9 AM instead of noon or 2PM) hitting the gym for two hours, every other day. Then begin the process to complete my script outline and character analysis.

Then I've been coordinating the completion of my documentary. Along with finding some fellow professional film makers in LA to screen it to before we produce a final cut to send to film festivals. When I'm not fatigued from my training regiment. I've found some time to party with friends at West Hollywood.

I also had a chance to complete a Microsoft Commercial, Lucky's Commercial, and helped do pre-production/casting session for an HP viral marketing campaign. I've since had a visitor from Europe whom I helped show around town in LA. Whom helped me with gas money to go to Las Vegas, where they were able to see Las Vegas from a locals perspective.

Now, I am writing this blog entry from San Jose, California. Waiting for another job to be offered to me by a couple of line producers... During the 3 days I was in Las Vegas, I was called for 3 jobs and I had to turn down 2 of them. Ugh.

Anyways. I'm now watching my friends graduate from SJSU and saying farewell to the international students that I've met through this past school year. It's strange, sad, happy, and curiosity all mixed in during this weekend. People are wondering what their future has in store for them, we wonder when we would actually see each other, people are wondering what my life in Los Angeles is like. Therefore, I think I will post some commonly asked questions during the past two days here in San Jose about LA.

1) How is LA? L.A. is okay. I've met some cool people. I've ran into superficial people. The traffic is terrible. I have been meeting a lot of working actors and I signed up for "central casting." But have yet to try for a job.

2) Are you working yet? For who? I am professionally unemployed. I work as a freelance PA and film maker. Most of the jobs I'm getting are in the bay area and I have to commute long distances to work. I'm almost done with my documentary and my goal is to be a writer and director. If I'm lucky, I hope to have a job at a movie studio.

3) Where do you live? Who do you live with? How are they? I live in Long Beach... near Compton. I live with a brother and sister. Then I found out this weekend that the brother is a weirdo (I'll tell that story later).

4) Work is hard, because I work hard.

That is about it in a nutshell. Life is pretty difficult because I am impatient. I am eager to work and gain experience, but no one is giving me a chance. I feel like I've been in LA forever but I haven't. It's only been 3 weeks (physically in LA) and I shouldn't expect so much so soon. Which is why I've sat down and began my new work and exercise program. Because I am now reinvigorated and my heart is whole again.... work wise. As for relationship... that's another story.

- Stay tuned for another entry soon.

IRON MAN movie: Stay past the end credits if you are a fan.

2008-05-03T02:23:00.000-07:00

I just returned from watching Iron Man. The latest marvel comics movie and the first movie from the Marvel Studios has produced on its own, versus franchising it to another company... like what DC Comics does with Superman and Batman to Warner Brothers Studios.

Anyways, I just want to tell you that the movie is worth the ticket price. I rarely say this and I rarely pay full price for a movie, but I felt like my $8.50 was well spent when I walked out of the theater. The script was well written and the action, along with the Computer Graphic Imagery (CGI) was the best I've seen lately.

I won't spoil it too much for the people who have not seen it. But you should know that you should sit on your chair until the end credits have finished. You will find a treat in the end of the credits to make it worth your while. If you are a Marvel Comics fan, you will jump up and scream like a guy did in the showing I attended.

.... and "NO!" It was not me....

So go watch it.

Yun Jin Kim

2008-04-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Wow... I must thank Yun Jin Kim for providing me with most of my hits. Almost everyone that stumbles upon my page seems to be coming here because of her photograph. I just wonder if these guys actually read my blog or just "right-click" and "save" the image they want... then move on to the next site. *sigh*

...

you're right, I doubt they actually read the blog.

In other news, I went to my first casting agency "Central Casting" in Burbank today. I turned in my forms and got my photograph taken. I really doubt I'll have as much luck as my female friend, who got a call from the agency 3 hours after getting her photo taken. She is now doing background work (atmosphere acting) for CSI: Miami. Lucky girl. I'm just fortunate to have attractive friends. AHahahaha.

21 movie unfair to America and it's cultural history.

2008-04-29T13:03:00.001-07:00

What is the connection between John Wayne's "The Conqueror" released in 1956 with the recent gambling movie "21" in 2008?

If you guessed "whitewashing history" then you get a cookie. A lot of people have called it racism, while other say it was just intelligent casting. Those who say it's intelligent casting reason it's because Jim Sturgess (a UK actor who starred in "Across The Universe" [ATU]) can attract viewers. Those who enjoyed his performance in ATU, which are women (probably below age 21) and guys who enjoy musicals will watch this movie too. Nuff' said.

This reason goes hand in hand with the idea that he will give the studio more of a return on their investment than a Asian-American actor, much less a whole ensemble cast of Asian-Americans. This same tired line was probably first used when John Wayne wanted to play the role of Genghis Khan in "The Conqueror." Believing a white lead will make more money than an Asian lead, and let historical facts be damned.

To be honest, I've read a lot of bulletins and arguments regarding this topic. The defenders of the movie argue that:

1) It's all about money and they are just protecting their investment.
2) The story is about gambling and the ethnicity of the students wouldn't have mattered for the movie, which is also to say that it wouldn't have mattered in real life.
3) The MIT Blackjack team was a club/organization/business that had multi-ethnic and both sexes for its members.

Which is what the book (eventually the movie) drew its inspiration from and nullifying any reason why Asian-Americans should feel cheated by MGM, it's Producers, and Casting Directors. The very reason I am writing this blog is to clarify and shed light to the people in the dark. To let them see why Asian-Americans feel cheated and insulted, along with vandalizing the rich cultural history of America.

1) The MIT blackjack team was multi-ethnic. It started with Strategic Investments, which eventually failed. Then a spin-off called the "Amphibian Team" was created. From the Amphibian team, another spin-off called the "Reptile Team" was created by Jeff Ma and Mike Aponte. It was this team called the "Reptile Team" that the book is based on. This team was all Asian-American and was the most successful team in the history of the MIT Blackjack team (to date).

You can even reference it from the Discovery Channel Special "Breaking Vegas." Where they were mentioned briefly. Go to TIME CODE 4:32 - 4:43 on this youtube video called "Breaking Vegas Part 18 of 19."

Mike Aponte, better known as MIT Mike and one of the legendary players the book and movie is based upon even had this to say about "Breaking Vegas" in an interview with Blackjackinfo.com.

RS: How accurate was the Television Show "Breaking Vegas"?

Mike: It was a bit dramatized, which was to be expected. One thing that struck me was that "Breaking Vegas" was based on Strategic Investments and the show made it seem as if everything was great on SI. They glossed over the fact that in the end Strategic Investments failed, and didn't make much money. The show made it seem as if Strategic Investments dissolved because the team decided to move on to other things, but the reason it broke up was because SI didn't do very well.

Even the TV show glossed over the actual team that the book and movie was inspired by, completely glossing over the fact that the most successful team in the Clubs History was an Asian-American team who was able to evade the casino security the longest, which enabled them to win more money in a longer period of time.

2) Yes, the story is about gambling. But ignoring the ethnic backgrounds of the MIT Reptile Team would be to ignore the very reason why they succeeded. Along with the conflicts and drama that comes along with the risk they placed themselves in. Ignoring their race is ignoring who they are, how they grew up, and any influence their family or heritage had in making them achieve that status.

I explained it like this to my younger sister.

Imagine YOU became the first woman to set foot in Mars. Then they made a movie about you, but instead of an Asian-American actress to play you, they cast a black-male or a white-female-tomboy. Having those changes in the script and character, changes the story. It negates the obstacles you had to overcome to be the first PERSON to set foot on Mars. May they be challenges due to your sex or ethnicity. It also takes away any advantage you may have had or used, to achieve your goal of setting foot in Mars.

Being a writer, I understand how changing the sex or ethnicity of a character dramatically changes the "story." Which is why the movie "21" becomes formulaic and boring. Although it was #1 for 2 weekends in a row, I doubt it will go any farther than that, since most of the reviews for it are not too flattering.

3) To argue that the studios was just protecting their investment is baloney. Protecting their investment cost them 2 weeks on the #1 spot, but will now go down in history as another Hollywood movie that is racist, bigoted, and had casting discrimination. Then to make matters worse, will probably lose the Asian and Asian-American fan base that would have bought the DVD in support of the all Asian-American cast... that the studio didn't have the balls to cast.

MGM studios also missed an opportunity to make history and try casting an Asian-American ensemble cast and bet that it would succeed in the USA and in international markets. Because if they had done so, they would have had the support of Asians and Asian-Americans as being visionaries who made a movie about an extraordinary achievement by Asian Americans. Instead, they will now be seen as bigots and thanks to the Internet, people... (not just Asian-Americans) will ask the denizens of the world to boycott this movie. Just like VELCROFATHOMS of youtube who is not Asian-American, but understands how insulting it is to white-wash history and achievements by people of color in American History.

I can go on and on about how disappointed I am with:
MGM Studios

Its Producers:
William S. Beasley .... executive producer
Dana Brunetti .... producer
Michael De Luca .... producer
Ryan Kavanaugh .... executive producer
Brett Ratner .... executive producer
Kevin Spacey .... producer

and Casting Agency:
Lauren Grey (as Lauren Gray)
Francine Maisler

These are the people who had the power and control to make the important decisions that we are debating today. I personally don't blame the actors for this faux pas, but one actor I am disappointed in is Kevin Spacey who was an actual producer and could have had an influence in making sure it was an Asian-American cast.

If any of you doubt my reasoning and research, please view the links/sites below to understand where I found my material.

Articles:
Genghis Khan and John Wayne Review by SOMA
Blackjackinfo.com - Complete interview with Mike Aponte (AKA: MIT MIKE)
WIRED Magazine - Hacking Las Vegas
MIT NEWS - Film loosely based on MIT blackjack team opens Friday
GOLDSEA - Asian American Mike Aponte Inspiration for Box Office Topper 21
The Yale Herald - Do you know where the Asian leading men are?

Wikipedia Articles:
MIT Blackjack Team
21 (2008 Film)

Youtube.com videos:
Breaking Vegas
Jeff Ma on KRON 4 with Gary Radnich
Jeff Ma on SiTVdotCom during the movie premiere.
Mike Aponte on FOX 5 news
Mike Aponte on Ultimate Blackjack Tour (UBT)

I hope this article shed some light as to why there is so much controversy about this movie and why you should avoid it in theaters and DVD. Not only because of its bigoted casting, but because of its negative reviews that it's a cookie cutter movie and nothing fresh comes from it. Something they could have avoided if they used and Asian-American cast that had the conflicts and dilemmas of Asian-Americans who were expected to get a degree in Medicine or Engineering, only to graduate (or drop out) with millions of dollars due to their skills in Blackjack.

So I hope I enlightened you today with another Euphemism.

Money = Reason for Bigotry.

I love my Honda Civic!!!

2008-04-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

Alright. So I finished working on the SAP and Microsoft commercial in San Francisco. After which, I decided to take a vacation and visit Las Vegas. According to google maps, it is 529 miles to Las Vegas from San Jose.

View Larger Map

So I decided to fill up my tank and head south for the desert.

On my way down, I saw the wonderful Wind Farms of California.

Then half-way through the drive, I realized that I have the potential to beat my prior driving record from Las Vegas to San Jose (non-stop). Last time, I was able to get 433 miles and nearly got stranded in the desert. Due to the fact that I decided to skip a gas station with my reserve tank. Once the reserve light turns on, it can only take me 30 - 33 miles; then two seconds after my light turns on, I drive past the exit for a gas station then a sign that says, "Next Gas Station 36 miles."

Luckily, I made it to the gas station. Fast forward to the present and coming up to Barstow (California); Which I decide to drive past, knowing that Baker (California) is the next city over. I figured that I had one gallon left before the "Empty Tank" light turns on and I can refill at Baker, California. What I didn't know was how FAR Baker was from Barstow. Then I see a sign that says,Baker 45 miles away. Then I knew.
View Larger Map

I figured I was okay, but suddenly the light comes on at 410 miles, then doing the math realized that I need to get to Baker within the next 30 miles or risk being stuck in the Mojave Desert or walk several miles to the nearest gas station to fill up my gas tank. I figured it can be done, I just can't use the brakes and continue traveling at my current speed on cruise control. So I kept driving at 85mph down the freeway and swerving through traffic to make sure I don't use my brakes to slow down my momentum. After some tense moments climbing a few hills I finally made it to Baker and filled up my tank.

There I noticed that I was able to get 448.2 miles on one tank. Being a nerd that I am, I was amazed that I was able to make my car run so efficiently. Not only that, beat my own record of distance. In six hours I was able to drive 448.2 miles to Baker, California. Proving that driving 80 - 85 MPH is just as fuel efficient as driving at 60 - 70 MPH, provided that you don't use your brakes too much and continue using cruise control. Once I filled up my tank, I was able to continue on to Las Vagas with Baker on my rear view mirror.

Freestylers!!!

2008-04-24T14:35:00.000-07:00

Oh ya! I really think that these videos have to be shared with everyone. These are some of the rehearsal videos I took on set.

Amazing Freestylers

2008-04-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

So I worked on a commercial for SAP and had the great opportunity to meet and learn about Freestyle Soccer/Futball. I've never heard of it, but after watching it. I was impressed and now a fan of the sport. I was fortunate enough to hang out with these athletes and didn't even realized until later that one of the guys was the current European Champion of the sport. The athletes were wonderful people, they were humble and easy to talk to... After the production, we went and toured San Francisco along with going to a nightclub. Below is the link for the website of the current European Champion... "NAM the Man."

http://www.freestylesoccerera.com/

There is a hole in Belize waiting for me.

2008-04-11T16:10:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with this gaping hole in Belize, just waiting for me to go in it. It's just there waiting for me to dive into it's wetness.

What hole am I talking about?

What's her name you ask?

Well, her name is "The Blue Hole."

Why? What were you thinking of sewer rat? Get your mind out of the gutter and into the ocean. This seems like a beautiful and scary dive destination. I'm no dive master, but I am a sucker for thrills. Slowly descending down a dark hole in the middle of the ocean is a scary thought. Especially when you have to be really good at buoyance control during this dive. If you don't, then you will either sink into oblivion or over compensate and inflate your vest to get back to the surface. A big mistake!

Because if you panic and rise to quickly and with out decompressing... well, you might as well sink into oblivion, because that can also kill you. If you are not a diver, just look up "The bends" and "Nitrogen Poisoning."

These are the things that make diving one of the most dangerous sports/hobbies in existance. Yet, I love it.

Here it is on google maps:

View Larger Map

A close up view:

How to cook Lengua (tongue). Filipino and Mexican style.

2008-04-10T14:29:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite hobbies is cooking. Most people assume I learned from my mother, but I actually learned from my father who is an excellent cook. I learned how to make Adobo and various forms of Sinigang (a tamarind stew) from the man. When I moved to college and got my own place, I became a cooking beast. I would experiment with whatever crap I had in my fridge and attempt to make something that seemed fancy and full of flavor.

In hindsight, I really wished I documented those experiments to share with you at this time. Sadly, they are lost in time.

FEAR NOT! I actually documented the labor it took to cook Lengua. That's Beef Tongue to those mono-lingual readers out there. Why Lengua? Why not?!?! When I went to Philippines I tasted a dish that they called Lengua, with meat that just fell apart in your mouth, soaking in a delicious mushroom sauce. When I asked what the meat was, due to the texture being "different" from the meats I've eaten before, I was blown when they informed me it was Beef Tongue... They being my aunt and her cook.

[Don't ask]

Anyways!!! People kept warning me how tough it was to prepare, much less make. Being the stubborn person that I am, I chose not to listen to them and look up online various suggestions on how to make Lengua. Here is what I learned:

Step 1: Prepare the meat. Go to your local butcher shop or Asian Market and ask for Lengua or Beef Tongue. The usually come fresh and whole.I suggest taking the portion you can eat, then freeze the remainder.

Wash the meat with cold water.

STEP 2: Boil Water in a pot (or pressure cooker). Throw in the meat and leave it for about an hour and a half.
[NOTE: It really depends on the amount of meat you throw in the pot. Pressure cookers can cut that time in half]

Sadly, I don't own a pressure cooker. So I had to settle with this.

STEP 3: Peel off the skin/outer membrane. You see all that white stuff on the right? Peel all that off. What remains is what you see on the left.

STEP 4: CUT or DICE the pieces. This is where I went to two directions, Filipino Version and Mexican Version.

For the Filipino version, I created long thin slices of the softened lengua.
For the Mexican version, I diced them into cubes.

STEP 5: Do what you want! From here, you can cook the lengua in an form.

MEXICAN -
When I wanted to make it Mexican style for a quesadilla. I decided to take some olive oil, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper and stir fry it with the boiled lengua.

After that is cooked, I take a quesadilla/buritto wrapper and heat it on the pan. Where I melt some cheese on one side and throw in the meat on the other. Then I fold it up to create my quesadilla.

Philippines -
For this version, I just got a can of "Cream of Mushroom" then mixed it with the lengua. AFTER... I sauteed it with some oil, garlic, onion, pepper, salt, and a soy sauce. The end product being this.

[NOTE: If you add more soy sauce, it will get a darker color.

Change to the page

2008-04-09T23:41:00.000-07:00

I'm beginning to realize that being anonymous in a blog can be boring... I'm considering making it more personal and write more about myself... what do you guys think?

Moving to LA

2008-04-09T22:59:00.001-07:00

Okay. So I haven't made a blog entry in a week. I have a good excuse. I moved to Los Angeles, CA. I made the move due to my interest in pursuing a career in film and entertainment. I didn't get too many opportunities in the bay area, except for a few commercial work... which I hope becomes a regular gig for me.

So instead of stating the obvious as to why I moved to Los Angeles after Film School, let me tell you about my last week in San Jose, California. It started with a farewell party on Sunday. Correction. A BBQ/Potluck. I had friends whom I haven't seen in 11 years show up to bid me farewell for Los Angeles. It was amazing to see some of my closest friends from the past and present have dinner with me. The event lasted for 12 hours, when we eventually quit drinking, while others sobered up enough to drive home.

Then on Wednesday, April 2nd I went out to dinner with some more friends at HANA Sushi on El Camino and Bowers. Great sushi restaurant!!! Order the Pinapple Roll, trust me. Anyways. After we stuffed ourselves at the restaurant, we returned to the TILE HOUSE (my house) where we drank and played drinking games till 3 AM... AGAIN!!! Then my friend Jeff and I took some of our friends home, then Jeff passed out in his room. Leaving me to walk home alone. LoL.

Then, my friend Jason (my old house mate) treated me to dinner and we caught up with each others lives. There we discussed how everyone he knew was married, except him... where I proceeded to let him know that he's lucky he knows me and my other friends. Because out of MY group of friends... I only know ONE guy who is married. *whew*

Then Friday night, the night before I was to drive to LA... I was invited to a Birthday party in Club Voodoo in downtown San Jose. Again, the gang got together... Where we drank and partied till 2AM... where I then continued to pack when I returned home at 3AM till 6AM. After my nap, I was really regretting going out the night before. Oh well!!! Thats how we roll.

THEN THE DRIVE TO LA...

After an uneventful 4 hours on CA-152 and I-5, the grapevine happened. Halfway through the Grapevine, which is a section of the Interstate 5 (I-5) that winds through the mountains which eventually leads you to the Los Angeles Valley... Anyways, back to my story.

Halfway through the grapevine, I begin to get stomach pains in my stomach which I later realize/diagnose as Acid Reflux from lack of food. Since the only thing I ate on the road was 2 cans of energy drinks and a handful of trail mix. This was due to my lack of interest to stop anywhere along the way to eat or fill up on gas... since my car can drive from San Jose to Las Vegas on one tank of gas and in only 5 hours. =)

Eventually, I make it to LA and have a late night snack and begin to unpack. Only until today (4 days later) have I finished unpacking. My room looks somewhat normal now.

Living in LA

Now that I've moved to Los Angeles, I've gotten several warnings about road rage and how people get shot in the freeway (I-710 especially). Due to gangsters inciting road rage amongst other drivers, only to shoot them when they get the chance. Lucky for me, road rage is a thing of my past. I also keep hearing how ghetto Long Beach was... not until I realized my neighborhood was only several blocks from Compton did that settle in. So far so good. I've been cruising around at night looking at late night shops and found a nice place near Cal State Long Beach, its called "Cha for tea." In fact, I'm sitting here right now. They have food and milk tea drinks... the food is good, but the Milk Tea's and coffee are a little too expensive for me, but it does taste good. but I am still a QUICKLY and CREMA Cafe of San Jose FAN!!!

Anyways, I had breakfast meeting with some friends and met some industry people. Where I basically met a guy who worked on STARGATE and 24. I also had a chance to meet a director from Norway, who does music videos. I'm not quite sure if I know most of his work, but he had some good advice, not to mention a real humble guy. It was cool meeting people from the industry and several actors I won't mind working with in the near future. Things look promising, as a matter of fact, I am already invited to a few parties next week. Hopefully, I can make some more friends... because as of right now. All my friends are either working or living in Central LA, which is quite a distance away. Oh ya... I'm here at "CHA for Tea" sitting alone in a cafe, typing on my laptop and catching people glance at me as they wonder, "Why is he here alone?"

As if sitting alone is a thing weird people do... but as I look around and notice how everyone is with a friend, partner, or group of friends; I begin to realize that sitting alone in a cafe isn't for weird people, its just for losers like me who have no friends. *pout*

Enough self pity... I thought it would be a while before I return to the Bay Area.... but I just got a call yesterday which makes "a while" stand for a week. As fate would have it, I was asked to work on a commercial this weekend. YAY for work. Stay tuned on my life in LA.

2008-04-02T03:25:00.000-07:00

First there was "Seven Samurai" which became "The Magnificent Seven. Then "The Ring" and more recently "Internal Affairs" which became "The Departed. Now, the American Film Industry has began to remake romantic movies from Asia.

Below are two trailers. One is the original Corean(Korean) movie trailer and the second is the American remake trailer with Elisha Cuthbert. I don't know about you, but the American remake doesn't seem to have the same chemistry and odd couple pairing as the original. Elisha doesn't seem to be the right fit for an alcoholic musician. While Jesse Bradford seem too good looking and clean cut to play Charlie Bellow and fall for a crazy girl like Elisha's character (Jordan).

I think the original movie got it right, where they cast a pudgy and average joe type of actor to play the lead. An element missing in the Hollywood remake. Hollywood must be running out of ideas to take romantic films from Asia. I personally think that Romantic Comedies are some of the best things Hollywood puts out on a constant basis. Yet, if you are going to remake a film... would it be too much to ask that they cast Asian-American talent when recreating Asian Films? How about taking a risk and using talent that more closely resembles the original actor's traits and attributes.

When they remade Le Femme Nikita into Point Of No Return, did they cast a black woman to play the lead character? No. They cast Bridget Fonda. Why not cast Asian American Actors and Actresses for this remake. For the female part alone, I can think of several women. The first one would be Yunjin Kim from Lost or Grace Park from Battle Star Galactica. Any suggestions on the male lead?

I must admit, a few Asian American stand up comedians come to mind. Comedians like Eliot Chang or Bobby Lee. Men who have comedic timing and a charming face. I wonder if the casting director considered this during pre-production. Anyways, you be the judge. Check out the trailer and leave me a message to tell ME what you think.

Original Corean Film:

American Remake:

Potential Race Riot at a Spelling Bee Competition

2008-04-01T04:18:00.001-07:00

Ahahahaha! This is hilarious! You have to watch this kid. I bet he thought the judges were playing a joke on him. I wonder if he thought he would get his ass whooped by all the black people in this event after the competition was over. I bet his parents thought, "Oh shit!"

See for yourself:

Now that you've seen the video. Here is the real word.
- According to the freedictionary.com
ne·gus
n. - A beverage of wine, hot water, lemon juice, sugar, and nutmeg.

- According to Wikipedia.com
Negus (Ge'ez ንጉሥ, nigūś, Amharic nigūs; cf. Tigrinya ነጋሽ negāš) is a title in Ge'ez, Tigrinya, Tigre and Amharic, used for a king and at times also a vassal ruler in pre-1974 Ethiopia and pre-1890 Eritrea. It is subsequently used to translate the word "king" in Biblical and other literature. It is a noun derived from the ancient Semitic verbal root N - G - Ś meaning "to reign."

In more recent times it was used as an honorific title bestowed on governors of the most important provinces (kingdoms): Gojjam, Welega and the seaward kingdom (where the variation Bahr Negus 'King of the Sea', was the ancient title of the ruler of present-day central Eritrea) and later Shewa.

Both uses and the imperial dignity would meet in the person of a regional prince, Lij Kassa Hailu, third youngest son of Dejazmach Hailu Wolde-Giyorgis, Governor of Qwara province, by his second wife Woizero Attitaggab, who rebelled against Empress Menen and her son Ras Ali II the Viceroy, in 1845 and spent the next nine years alternating between rebellion and submisison until he was proclaimed as Negus at Amba Chera, (19 September 1854), and after the battle of Derasge proclaimed himself Emperor 8 February 1855 and was crowned as Tewodros II, at Derasge Maryam the next day.

NOW... I only wonder if the look of shock on the kids face was the look of...
"Oh shit! I got it right."
or
"Oh shit! I'm not going to get my ass whooped."

Who is watching the TSA?

2008-03-27T19:37:00.000-07:00

I just had to put this up for people to read. A woman wasn't allowed to go to her plane due to a nipple ring. See article here via YAHOO! NEWS.

This is incredible and unacceptable. First it was a mother and her baby’s milk. Then a man who had his computer confiscated and searched with out explanation or reasonable doubt. Then recently, a woman was told to remove her nipple piercing before a flight in Lubbock, Texas. All too many people are being harassed unnecessarily in the name of National Security. When is common sense going to rule the TSA in America and around the world? This could have been easily solved if an agent of the same sex inspected the woman visually. Why did it have to be removed? Was there an incident or CIA report that said, "terrorists are sneaking uranium/explosives via nipple rings or balls?!?!

I very much doubt it, but for these agents to do this is just insulting. If anything, people should begin to arrive at their flights on time and expect to be harassed by these agents. Then instead of succumbing to their demands, ask for a supervisor if their requests seem REALLY unreasonable. I'm so sick and tired of airport security asking people to remove items that have no use in hi-jacking or terrorism. In Paris, I was ordered to remove a mock Cabineri (made of aluminum) because the agent thought I could use it as a weapon (brass-knuckle). I fought and argued, but in the end gave it up to catch my flight. A decision I still regret today due to the principal of the whole matter. I just hope if that agent took my Cabineri home to use in his rock-climbing weekend get-a-way, that he realizes the hard way that it's not real.

What upsets me is how the TSA doesn’t seem to care how they treat the people that go through the security checkpoint. They don’t seem to care if their agents are possibly stealing or harassing people under the guise of National Security. I understand people are afraid of getting blown up out of the sky, but we have to stop being so afraid that we give up common sense and decency. I don’t know about you, but the next time I feel harassed by a TSA inspector, I plan to get their name and badge number to make a formal complaint. Especially if I know they are making a mountain out of a molehill.

Race and Humor

2008-03-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

I found this link on youtube.com called "Race and Humor." It's a four part web-series about racial humor in the media. It was authored by a video blogger named KevinJumba. I've seen some of his material before, which is usually a collection of funny skits and satirical humor. What amazed me is how insightful and informative his documentary is by using clips from the internet and podcasts. I believe it's one of the Jewels of the internet and believe me, it's tough to find something original worth watching on you tube. So here are the four parts of Kevin Jumba's documentary "Race and Humor." Leave me a message on what you think and feel free to visit Kevin's site. I've included him on my friends list.

Charlie Rose Black Eye

2008-03-26T00:30:00.000-07:00

So this is Charlie Rose. He is a talk show host on Public Broadcasting Station (PBS) and talks to politicians, entertainers, and various other public figures. He's basically the Public Television version of "Larry King."

I tuned into PBS and noticed Charlie Rose sporting a black eye. I dug up the story behind this black eye and found several articles mostly originating from SALON.COM mentioning how he received a black eye from saving his MAC BOOK AIR during a fall caused by a New York City pothole. I was about to accept the story when I got another good look at Charlie Rose. Something about his face bothered me.

Then it hit! I realized there is NO WAY this guy received a black eye from tripping on the ground. Being the stickler for detail that I am (or dork with too much time on his hands), I tried to imagine the different ways a person can fall on the ground while carrying a Mac Book Air... including how a person would save it during a fall.

My conclusion led me to believe that Charlie Rose and his producers are lying to reporters when they told them that his injury was due to a fall. I personally believe that Charlie Rose was attacked (mugged or got in a fight) and took a fist in the eye, causing the black eye. Take a look at him yourself, tell me what you think. I just can't imagine how asphalt can cause such a bruise in a concentrated area.

Why is it so hard to admit that he was attacked or mugged in New York City. Unless, he actually got in a fight with another person... but finally, why would you even admit that you got a black eye for protecting a laptop computer. Basically admitting that your material possession is more valuable than your personal safety. If that is the case then "WOW"... Mr. Rose, you are an idiot.

Incredible Hulk Tralier

2008-03-22T02:00:00.000-07:00

Here it is true believers, the Incredible Hulk trailer.

The cgi seems a little off and I'm disappointed that they didn't do a story with the Grey hulk. When you watch this movie can you let me know if you agree that the "green" seems to be a bit off. I think they need to color correct it again.

Papaya Dance

2008-03-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

I must confess that I wanted my first official(not including my introduction) entry to be a serious article about the entertainment industry and to have the readers walk away from their computer going, "hmmmm."

Then my plan was turned upside down when Yahoo! News showed a clip of THE PAPAYA DANCE. Now I would have easily overlooked it if it wasn't for the words "Filipino... dance craze."

Even more, it was also featured in Good Morning America on ABC. Then I looked it up on Youtube.com and found that the USA Ambassador to the Philippines was on a morning talk show doing the dance herself. Now being the (wannabe) trend setter that I am, I wouldn't want my readers to be the last person to learn about this new dance craze that can become larger than the Macarena. So take a look at these various links and remember that you saw it here first when it starts blowing up in your neighborhood and all over MTV.

Good Morning America Link: http://www.yahoo.com/s/838569

USA Ambassador to the Philippines:

Welcome. Definition. Understand.

2008-03-20T18:17:00.001-07:00

Today is my first day at attempting to blog and share with you my life and struggles. I only hope that you can share your opinions when I publish postings, because I really do want to know what you think.

Let me share with you the definition of a Euphemism accourding to Merriam - Webster.

eu·phe·mism

Pronunciation: \ˈyü-fə-ˌmi-zəm\
Function: noun
Etymology:: Greek euphēmismos, from euphēmos auspicious, sounding good, from eu- + phēmē speech, from phanai to speak — more at ban
Date: circa 1681
: the substitution of an agreeable or inoffensive expression for one that may offend or suggest something unpleasant; also : the expression so substituted

— eu·phe·mist \-mist\ noun

— eu·phe·mis·tic \ˌyü-fə-ˈmis-tik\ adjective

— eu·phe·mis·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

So now you know what it means. Now, stay tuned to see how I feel and think about certain Euphemisms that occur in this world via corporations, religion, politics, and even through my everyday life as a human being.