bboyheat

THE LOSS OF AN ICON

2009-06-26T04:02:00.000-07:00

"Before You Judge Me, Try Hard To Love Me" this man once wrote.

Someone who was born with such raw natural talent and love but perhaps lacked the strong defense shield needed for this world's brutal abuse which comes in so many forms.

A piece of my childhood dies with you...

To An Entertainer, Performer, and Artist Who Greatly Impacted My Very Existence And Could Never Possibly Be Forgotten.

RIP Michael Jackson - June 25, 2009.
The World Loves You and Mourns The Void Your Loss of Life Brings To Us All.

Minimalist Mindset

2009-04-03T03:06:00.000-07:00

STEVE JOBS AT HOME IN 1982 — “This was a very typical time. I was single. All you needed was a cup of tea, a light, and your stereo, you know, and that’s what I had.” —Steve Jobs

A Great Quote

2009-03-27T03:15:00.000-07:00

"Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat."
-- Theodore Roosevelt

Starry Night

2008-12-24T07:54:00.000-08:00

A Recent, Multi-Colored Sunset That I Captured Outside Of My Window In California Made Me Realize:

"With the closure of today's hopes and dreams comes the rise of tomorrow's determination and success." --Bboyheat 2008

Sleep Well My Friends, For Dawn Brings Victory.

Untitled

2008-10-19T04:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, all we have in our meager lives is the power of...... HOPE.

HOPE for tomorrow, HOPE for a better life, HOPE for a greater sense of self.

HOPE for anything that could change the crushing, breathless grip of reality.

My Teacher Is Ill

2008-09-23T18:28:00.000-07:00

I feel so fortunate Ive been able to study under the influence of such a talented artist and friend on a weekly basis during my time in the Bay Area of California. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Jardy Santiago:

GROUNDHOG DAY

2008-09-19T02:33:00.002-07:00

When every day is just like yesterday.

Fakeness

2008-09-19T02:33:00.001-07:00

Im just an aging bboy living in a world of sunshine......

And PLASTIC.

America, Meet Your Local Californians.

Be Sure To Vote America

2008-09-04T19:58:00.000-07:00

This week marks the Republic National Convention.

Sad how we as a society place our trust and hopes in one specific individual who proclaims a promise to lead us as a people, when we have the power and ability to stand up and do it our damn selves. We are in the middle of an endless war that cant realistically ever be totally won. Our economy is in the toilet, the American Dollar grows increasingly weaker despite the fact we work our lives away. We are forced to use a fuel source that long term can only increase in cost while simultaneously destroying the planet and our financial budgets. No real end in sight.

We complain but realistically do nothing.

We generously pay a combination of others to offset that mighty leader and they work the equivalent of part time hours whenever they decide to be in session. The majority of the bills they do pass are determined within hours or days of their pending vacations to most likely just get them out of the way. Similar to how we let dishes pile up and then finally do them all as quickly as possible before someone comes to visit.

Meanwhile Mr Bush still shows up for puppet shows to take pictures with all the children as well as boast about how he's now officially an expert Mountain Biker since he peddles from his back porch to his horse stable.

I cant decide if i find it hilarious or sad how strategic the presidential candidates are: Mr Obama picks a VP who just so happens to be an aged, veteran politician to compliment his presidential ticket somehow making everyone believe this officially makes him an experienced leader. John McCain realizes the country wants some type of drastic change from the current leader and doesnt want to be branded the traditional republican so therefore randomly picks a woman few have ever even heard of. Alaska, where the f*ck is that? Is Alaska even part of the U.S? Oh thats right, it is in fact. "This will prove im hip", says McCain.

Drastically different candidates that somehow share the same message: "Pick Me, I Will Create Change". "I love this country, its about time we put it back on track."

Considering every candidate has said that since my youth you'd think by now we'd be "Changed and On Track".

Sadly, I lost what little faith I ever had in the democratic system after the great Florida recount. So has Al Gore.

Oh sorry, the election is delayed due to a computer touch screen glitch. People mistakenly voted Republican when they were attempting to order a BigMac.

Dont believe you can buy an election? Every candidate to win the presidency in the past 20 years just so happened to be the same candidate to raise the most amount of campaign funds out of all the competition.

If Senator Obama wins this year he will be no exception.

The real "change" will come when people rally together at any given whim to collectively congregate and correct failure.

Here's my administration policy - Dont Be Stupid.

Are YOU Ready For Some Football???!!

2008-09-04T01:37:00.000-07:00

"BEEP, BEEP, BEEP." The alarm is sounding. Its the time of year where we all come out of our sports resting coma and gear up for all that is the National Football League.

No other professional sport can really compare.

The NBA? Please, the last time I got excited about a basketball game was when his Airness played for the Chicago Bulls in the early 90s. MLB? The professional equivalent of counting sheep. Substitute wooly numbered Serta sheep for private scratching and spitting. NASCAR? Not without my banjo! Nothing like endless left turns to spark my interest. The Olympics? Well I cant say I didnt enjoy the nano second updates on Michael Phelp's Olympic Gold count but still relatively non exciting. The media hype made the story of the Olympics clear before it even began - "If Michael Phelps receives anything less than 8 Gold Medals the entire sporting event was a complete failure." To the Chinese 'FREE PRESS" means a public dry cleaners. Even amazing sports such as Soccer, Hockey, and Cycling which I invested a large fraction of my life into personally just dont completely pull you in as a spectator yearning for a specific day of the week to arrive.

Speed. Power. Strength. Determination to Overcome. The NFL is truly todays version of the historic Gladiators. And when I think of the word 'Gladiators' I instantaneously think of THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS.

Hell Yes.

The continuation of a new era will begin this Sunday as Mike Tomlin begins his second year as the coach of the Black & Gold. What fate will this season hold for these Men of Steel? Will the Steelers continue to dominate the AFC Central, safely securing their spot in the postseason? Will they progress towards a wide open passing team like they have shown samples of the past few years, or will they fully reinvest in the run backed up by their traditional smash mouth defense?

Most know the key to success in today's extremely competitive NFL is both elements, a successful run game complimented with the threatening ability to go to the Air. All of the most recent top teams have had this combination.

Many questions remain to be answered as this season progresses and history unfolds but the one true emerging story of this year should be that of #10 - Santonio Holmes. The learning curve is over and small hints of extreme talent have been displayed. This will be the speedy wide out's third season in the big leagues and Im expecting him to have a break out season and enter into the league's premier group of wide receivers. Steve Smith, Terrell Owens, Hines Ward, Plaxico Burress, Marvin Harrison, Randy Moss. What makes one a 'premier receiver'? Well by definition its a player who makes giant plays when his team needs them the most despite everyone including the opposing team knowing in advance. He will and should be the perfect compliment to a guy like Hines Ward who other than having a stadium named after him and being the poster child Steelers player for the past decade, makes the tough catches and straight up busts heads to win games. With that role filled, this leaves the deep, gambling passes open for a guy like Santonio who possesses the speed and agility to make BIG plays.

Willy? Roeth? My boy Polamalu? The same spotlight shines for them all creating stories within their own.

Last season the Steelers were easily one of the most talented teams in the league but choked on key plays that perhaps their previous long tenured coach would have most likely prevented.

The other reality is the Steelers still probably couldnt have beat the Patriots in the later rounds of the playoffs.

The 2008 season kicks off this Thursday night with the defending super bowl champion Giants taking on the Redskins of Washington DC. Every year the NFL contains many moments of heart pounding excitement and this year is sure to be no different. Brett Favre on a new team forced to face Mr Tom Brady 2x a season, the Cowboys and their continued guiltless signing of public felons, and the emergence of the question mark team who despite all stastistics pointing to them being one of the worst teams of the year will somehow be one of the very best.

The pressure to get to the Super Bowl this season is definitely on the Cowboys and Chargers as their franchises have spent all the $$$s over the past few seasons to place them there. How will these teams respond? A Vickless team tries to rebound after a devastating season with a new gameplan and I still say Michael Vick will be playing in the NFL in 2009 because above all, there is one if not multiple people willing to sign up an animal murderer and all the pertaining criticism that comes with if it means the chance to win the big game. A perfect example would be the Cowboys signing PacMan Jones after previously being involved in just about every felon act known to man. "Can we win the Super Bowl with this Guy? Yes. Okay, sign him up." Shameless.

When I think of the fate of all those poor puppies I think of my very own amazing puppy whose sole purpose in life was to simply please and maybe eat. Then I realize that no penalty for Vick was severe enough and that Electrocuting, Shooting, and Drowning helpless canines is close to the equivalent of harming little children.

I maintained silence during the whole Favre circus this summer but have a few thoughts Id like to share: The Packers dont want Favre. They havent wanted Favre for several of the past seasons but didnt have the guts to take the public backlash of trading or benching a hall of fame quarterback. The coach and GM simply looked the other way for about the past 4 horrendous seasons anticipating his retirement before last years amazing team run ending in another typical Favre forced interception. That said, Favre is an amazing player who anyone would be blessed to have as QB and the idea that some team is willing to pay him mega millions to stay retired so they can put their entire future into the hands of an untested replacement is ludicrous. Favre deserves more and I wish him success in NY although it will be very tough for him to readapt to a new team after an entire career in Green Bay. Of all the teams up on the trading block for Favre, the Jets were the very last one he hoped to be traded to and in the end that is where he will reside. So how will he respond? Hopefully well. I wish the Packers complete failure after turning their backs to Favre and respectfully hope Brett tears it up in the Dirty Jerz. Hes definitely capable.

And Oh, Fuck ESPN for hyping the story day in and day out, making sports feel like an episode of the Guiding Light. As a sports network your priority should be to show highlights, followed by reporting facts and statistics.

Anway, Ive got the evening off and the 40" 120khz Sony 1080p HD on standby. Who wants to come kick it?

Lets Do This.

Shallow Pond

2008-08-19T03:16:00.000-07:00

No specific events triggered this blog.

Just fragments of images and thoughts spilling out of my brain and falling upon my keyboard during the calmness of night.

There are billions of people in this world, millions within this region, and hundreds within our very own neighborhoods. There are so many of us that we affect the very planet that harvests our species. Regardless where we go we are smothered by others in an overpopulated metropolis known as civilization.

As I mature, my ability to deal with people continues to decrease at the same rate despite my open and outgoing personality. I dont think its a decreased threshold of patience, but rather a growing and quicker understanding of how people truly function.

Mankind has evolved to somewhat of a superior status from the thought of doing for itself, so its simple biology and genetic composition that makes us selfish.

How can one be up to his/her neck in people's shit as well as the toxic fumes in which they exude, yet only ankle deep in personality, depth, and character?

Some days I have to just take a time out.

Im just an average guy living in a below average world.

Dead Man Walking

2008-08-19T02:48:00.000-07:00

Amidst many thoughts, it dawned upon me today that there is nothing more humbling than realizing your own mortality.

Seeing yourself or those you know, love, or respect - age, grow old, and/or pass makes one thing very clear......

Your time on this Earth in your current capacity is, without question, limited.

Bboy For Hire: Ive Got References

2008-08-06T01:53:00.000-07:00

Life carries a suitcase of personalities. Sometimes life can be fun and happy. Sometimes, life can be boring and uneventful as we long for a reminder that we are in fact alive. Other times it can reveal its ugly inner self to be straight up cruel and unjust. Life can Punch you in the face like the Iron Black Glove of Mike Tyson or Pierce your confidence like the Lifeless Stare of a Great White Shark right before it rips you in half.

Everyone that knows me understands the struggles Ive endured to change and adapt my life on the West Coast. Hell, basically every post or conversation has to deal with the topic. Those that really know me understand the deeper struggle to change and adapt my life from what it was supposed to be towards what I want it to become.

Basically as Ive tried to settle in, make close friends, and grow my life Ive been owned by that which is my job. Ive been dedicated to my job for the opportunity given to come out to California and enjoy life from a total different perspective, but more so Ive been dedicated because I need to prove to myself I can survive this hard world to do and be anything I damn well please. My job has been a constant struggle, and not for the reasons one would think. I am capable of doing the given duties to the most precise detail, however the real challenges of the job lie outside that of the specified title. Work has moved me from the Central Valley to almost an immediate vast commute to South Bay (119 miles). The opening in South Bay was the most testing, high volume position in the entire state of California and I walked right in taking all the tasks on and slowly from that point defining the position to a level some say has never been done or endured. 9 people have held my job previously in the past 3 years, none lasting as long as I have. I became the backbone of the entire organization while enduring a new boss unfamiliar with our business, but a close and known companion to his boss whom was also new to our prestigious company. My job description at that point became to do my job, run the region, and "train my boss to know the business" as it was put to me. Are you for real?? Teach my boss how to do his job?? Well I guess someone had to do it considering his boss was also unexperienced in our field but had the papers and past salaries to be in the position. Sure, experience in shoes is the same as highly sophisticated bikes.

Ive worked insane hours. Ive missed out most weekends and evenings with the few social bonds I have created for myself. My physical training and those associated goals have suffered. Returning to school on the side to achieve those specified objectives has endured the same fate. Ive put aside many of the goals and reasons I have come to the Bay Area to focus on my job and do the absolute best I could do until my next opportunity arose.

Hence, the past few days some interesting events have taken place. First, my boss was originally terminated for his inability to do his job. Not only was he incapable of doing his job and being the team leader, he was always late and took no ownership of his position. I remember countless days calling his boss because mine was unavailable and the situation was overlooked or avoided until it got to the point it could no longer be ignored. Since being terminated, his position has been "reconsidered" and he has basically been demoted to my position. "I feel said person needs time to learn the role and will eventually be put back into the position he was removed from after he proves his knowledge and skills".

As this situation has progressed I have been doing his job and my job for the same pay. Despite taking on these unwanted responsibilities, his boss has progressively been more harsh and distant to me for no good reasons through our conversations lately. Blame for situations I wasnt involved in. Accusations which were completely unjust.

Well today it turns out there was a good reason:

I received a phone call by my boss's boss and was told to meet him in San Francisco on MY DAY OFF tomorrow. "Meet me downtown San Francisco, we'll pay you for your commute, and there are a few things I want to discuss about the companies refocus."

Okay.

After about an hour time period I basically piece everything together with no hints and respectfully return the call.

"Actually tomorrow is my DAY OFF and I would like to not spend the eve and morning of my DAY OFF worrying about the fate of this ordeal...........lets take the opportunity to meet today, regardless of where and when"

Said boss responds "Okay, meet me in the Walnut Creek region right now". You should be here in about an hour and a half.

Five minutes later Im in 6 lanes of traffic headed north, angry as all hell.

How did I get into this position? Ive done my job to the point where there could be no question about my abilities and why am I being shafted for the incompetency of my boss, despite their friendship???? How could this realistically be about to happen??

Game Face On. My friends and those reading this know me as a joking, friendly person. Some of those same people also know my seriousness and intellectual comprehension when the time is called upon to act.

So We Meet For "Lunch". How Pleasant.

I should mention I also get pulled over by the CHP and receive a non-moving violation for talking on a cellphone while driving. I was calling 411 to get information on the street address for the restaurant where we are to meet.

Anyways.

I park at Safeway to avoid paying the meters and figure the walk will clear my thoughts of what exactly Id like to say. An overwhelming concentration of older, hot women are on display with the task of filling their pantries while their hard at work significant others pay the tab. One pauses and smiles as we cross paths. Yeah baby, I know................right now Ive got business to take care of. Ill look you up later.

As I descend upon my fate I stand next to a young hippy strumming his miniature guitar as he patiently waits for the flickering white stick figure to flash indicating its safe to cross the street. From my perspective, this guy doesnt have a care in the world. He's playing a song, nodding his head as he probably sings the lyrics from within. I bet I could play that track on Guitar Hero I think to myself. Next to Beck is a family of three. Looks like a little midday shopping trip to the expensive stores of the strip. Mom and Dad interacting with their daughter as they all gaze at a purse with a gold buckle that reflects a fraction of the sun's rays directly into my polarized sunglasses. I could probably live for 3 months off that virtual bling. Look at us as we stand here waiting for authorization to continue our journeys. 3 groups of people having 3 total different outcomes of their day. One group appreciates the material gifts life can bring. Another appreciates a simpler satisfaction. Then there lies me, calmly debating life's irony and un-relentlessness. Instantaneously throughout the world everyone goes through their own individual experience of the countless faces of life forementioned. Within a few seconds the traffic lights change and we all depart upon our individual fate with different strides that separate our bond and commonplace.

Interaction as I see my boss's boss ahead.

(Smiling)"Hi Mike, thank you for meeting with me so quickly"

Me: "Fuck You"

Okay I didnt really say that part.

Me: "Hello ----, Ive been contemplating the course of this conversation since you brought this meeting to my attention so suddenly today. Basically, Ive figured out everything that I assume is about to be said". (Also somewhat smiling)

Boss Man: "Okay well if thats the case lets hear where you assume Im headed".

Me: "Well, my boss's inabilities to do his job has brought about his demotion into my position. You dont have the payroll to have us both doing the same job, so you have decided that you are going to utilize my abilities in another location to settle the issue. I figure first you are going to praise me for the job I have done and convince me the relocation to East Bay is a promotion and an opportunity by giving me a small increase in pay which probably wont justify the gas and time involved. If I dont buy that route and pass on your offer, I have a strong suspicion you will change the conversation to the fact that since my boss couldnt do his job, my work wasnt satisfactory and this is a chance to redeem myself and save my job."

Boss Man: Absolutely Speechless.

Tick Tick Tick. Random thoughts fill my mind throughout the course of the day as I my brain goes into hyperdrive in a fight or flight response. Damn its cold up here I think to myself. I always underestimate how cold the San Francisco area is with the Bay Winds, especially spoiled by the warmth of San Jose. My contacts are killing me today. I shouldve prolly worn my glasses to give my eyes a break but figured they would adapt as the day progressed. Why am I even in this situation, Im so above this job and I shouldve gotten another one by this point which pays more or requires me to work less hours and weekends. Oh yeah, my workload doesnt really allow me time to aggressively search for another position.

Boss Man: (voice struggling with stress as it changes tones like a teenage boy going through puberty) Mike, I really like you. I feel you are a talented individual that has the ability to go far with us, so Id like to take you out of the situation you are in and put you in a little lower volume region where I can really dial your skills." The tension in his voice wasnt from fear naturally, but instead that of knowing he was being unfair. My boss's replacement was from the area he was attempting to send me as an easy fix.

This is straight up insulting. Im not a moron. Damn my eyes really hurt.

Me: "I apologize for the red eyes, Ive been struggling with my contacts all day today. Honestly, I dont completely believe your reasonings as these issues have never been raised before and I can sense the tension in your voice. I understand the position you are in and Id like to know my options. What if I say no? I purposely researched San Jose from 3000 miles away and decided ultimately that was where I fit into The Bay. The riding is fantastic. The beach is so close. Its always sunny and warm. It took me months to find an apartment in San Jose while commuting from Central Valley because this is where the company wanted me to be. This is where the company needed me. I have since settled. Ive found my routine and comforts. I know when and where roads will be jammed or empty. I know where to get the best pizza in the city. I know where and what nights all the best house music in San Jose is offered. I know how to get to everything I need to know to survive.

What are my realistic options?"

Boss Man: "Well basically, you are due for a review of your work. I could give you a raise to compensate you for this change or commute"

Me: "My review was due in March. Its August. You want to give me a small increase in pay based on the fact that my work in San Jose wasnt satisfactory? This doesnt make much sense to me ------. My recently demoted boss and I talked after your initial phone call as he told me of your attempt to send him this same route and his instant refusal"

Boss Man: "Mike. Please make this transition easy on me. You are single right. You'll love being more north, a fresh look at Bay Life. Ill talk to HR and see what I can do about a pay raise."

Me: "Honestly, this company has been a let down in just about every way since Ive jumped aboard. The only reason Ive endured the situation was because I wasnt ready to give up and go back East. No Job means I have to move home considering the crippling cost of life here. I dont desire to be where my boss is or where you are career-wise. My chosen path is a different choice. Why dont you pink slip me, and then the company can pay me to find a new job?"

Boss Man: Speechless

Maturity works in funny ways. A few years ago Id be so scared to be sitting on this chair facing upper management. Today, I am focused, blunt, and owning this conversation. Absolutely no fear, no vulnerability to corporate tactics. I watch his body language as he searches for answers. Silence fills the cool, sunny air. My short hair blows in the wind. The sun feels so good as it warms my skin. The heat of its rays feel like a hot water bottle made to soothe your entire body. I take in the majestic landscape of blue skies, light brown grassy hills, and contradicting sporadic dark green forestry that paints the jagged canvas as I contemplate my fate in the void of a response.

Boss Man: "What Id like you to do at this point is consider what we've discussed. I need you to help me with this, and Ill see what I can do for you. Think about this situation through the course of your day off. If you decide to help me out, this will pay off for you later down the line as Ill be a significant resource for you as you seek those positions you mentioned. You are a very talented individual. If you decide otherwise, you will be scrutinized in your current position and corrective actions will be taken very aggressively."

I pause. I look the man in his face, deep into his eyes. He's almost totally grey with a few speckles of a brownish/redish hue which must have been that of his original hair color. He's overweight but not obese, he could stand to ride some. His foot is shaking as its crossed upon his other leg. We exchange deep stares. We size each other up.

Me: "Well Ill consider everything we discussed today. Basically I need to suffer the consequences of my boss's inability to do his job thoroughly. Thanks for your time today and dealing with this situation immediately so I didnt have to sleep on this conversation"

A firm handshake.

Boss Man: "Id like you to go visit all the clients you will be covering in this area. Take the rest of the day to do so and see what you think. A few of the guys are expecting you"

Yeah, a few guys like those that Ive lead for the past 7 months in which depend on me to support them through the companies ever changing roles and business plans. Ive got to the point I anticipate those changes and have my crew ready for the ever accumulating workload. I know a few of those same guys are expecting me to tell this guy to go straight to hell.

So I do what any self respecting human being would do, I go home. I decide the workday was long enough despite his instructions and as I head south, I turn my phone to the 'off' position. Windows Up and the World Closed Out, I bask in the sun through my windshield listening to the air pass over my ride and the workload of my 4 cylinder engine as I slice my way through 6 lanes of traffic like a virtual game of OutRun.

Sometimes the sun feels so good. Despite its harsh effects I wish I could capture its pleasure in pill form.

"Why have I even allowed myself to be in this position with all the talents I have to offer?", I think to myself.

This will not be my demise. Im stronger than this, I know. California's constant resistance must eventually become futile and with good reasoning to explain its never ending bullying.

I hope........

Tests can be fun and challenging as long as they are indexed and one knows of their eventual end.

Im hungry, I think Ill eat. I got some leftover garlic, whole wheat pizza I could have warmed and ready to eat within minutes upon arrival at my pad. Ill take out these contacts which have me in complete agony. Take a long, hot shower to allow myself to relax. Maybe Ill sleep for a bit as Im still recovering from a past weekend owned by work.

One thing is certain - hours from now the saturating sweat, deep basslines, and floetic body movements of total release await my arrival as the warm California Sun succumbs to the cool, clear darkness of Night.

What will I do? Will I tell this guy and his joke of a company to kiss my skinny, white ass? Or will I do what the Ordinary Joe would do - hang my head in embarrassment of my own mortality and need for a paycheck, take the position and its joke of a pay raise to inconvenience my life to another level - yet again. Thus, ultimately waiting until I can work my way into something else?

To Be Continued.

Release

2008-07-27T01:58:00.000-07:00

Mark your calenders.

The week of July 20th was a good week. I put all my struggles aside and just LET GO. Work, life, technicalities, relationships, purpose, everything...............all gone.

Ive danced 5 out of the last 6 nights, the entire week minus Wednesday. More importantly, my form and rhythm were dialed this week to a level that Im actually for once content with my evolution towards the next level. The groove, the steps, the motions of the body and mind.......all collaborating to equal the ultimate flow and soul. No style but my own.

I actually peaked as the week progressed.

There is something to be said about going out totally alone - no judging, no expectations, no accommodations, no words. Just show up when I feel like it, find my spot, feel the music from within and just rip.

This week has been full of compliments and appreciation, nothing is more meaningful than having a circle full of dancers telling me I inspire them to get better or that they feel my sets from inside their beating chests. Little do they know they push me to do the same.............EVOLVE.

As I sit here soaked to the bone, dehydrated, and with the unavoidable cool down from tonight's high my mind is clear, yet fulfilled.

One Message Comes to Mind......

Keep On Keeping On My Peoples. Pushing towards whatever it is we seek. Our limitations are strictly mental so just break free.

Noone can stop us but our damn selves.

Career Opportunities - Warm Bodies & A President Wanted

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

Thought I would share the local job listings for today from Pennsylvania. I wanted to give everyone an idea of the job market in a dying blue collar state:

WARM BODIES WANTED:

Job Title	Company	Location	Date Posted
Construction Equipment Operator	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Automotive / Heavy Equipment Mechanics	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Installers	Sears Home Improvement Products	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Emergency Readiness Specialist	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Installers	Sears Home Improvement Products	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Avionics Communication Specialist	Air National Guard	State College, PA	Jul-23
COUNTERINTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Personnel Specialist	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Construction	Air National Guard	State College, PA	Jul-23
Airfield Systems Technician	Air National Guard	Johnstown, PA	Jul-23
Intelligence Analyst	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Generalist Pilot	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Theater Manager In Transit	Carmike Cinemas	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Air Traffic Controller	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
POLICE OFFICER	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh PA	Jul-23
Aircraft Mechanic – Aerospace Maintenance	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Ground Radio Communications	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Air Battle Officer – Manager	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Air Traffic Controller	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Aerospace Engineer and Radar / Sonar Operator	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Computer Systems Repair	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Communications Cable and Antenna Systems Repair	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Insurance Sales Agent	National Agents Alliance	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23
Reconnaissance / Surveillance / Electronic Warfare Navigator	Air National Guard	Pittsburgh, PA	Jul-23

Basically, you have to be willing to die to find sustainable work.

So many of the over 4,000 American Soldiers killed to date in the current Iraq War have come from places like PA where some kids grow up thinking they have no opportunity or absolutely no choice but to join the Army where they will "be rich, have the chance to succeed, and see the world". College in Pa is one of the most expensive in the nation as the state claims to have no tax money available to put towards public education. They can build new sports stadiums but hey, asking them to support education for the underprivileged is going too far. Community Colleges barely exist as they have been basically gobbled up by Penn State University for branch campuses to provide access of a PSU education across the entire state, all which proudly boast the most expensive in-state tuition in the entire country. Essentially a public school education for close to the cost of a private one. Families making less than the national average and education costing more - basic math tells you these numbers dont add up leaving many without real opportunities. Early debt can be very overwhelming to someone fresh out of high school as the expected total cost of a bachelors degree education there today is basically $100,000, the equivalent cost of many homes within the state. This is a debt that can last a lifetime if the wrong choice is made and someone doesnt capitalize on their degree of choice.

Compare this to a state like California where people make more money and yet can still get a college education for less than a month's worth of lattes from Starbucks. (The trick in Cali may be trying to afford rent while accomplishing this feat)

Back to the subject at hand, Feeling that no other opportunities exist, many reluctantly turn to the military as they feel its the only chance for a change.

For some itll be a very costly mistake.

"Unemployed?? Looking for your dream job?!!! BE Proud Of What You Do For A Living!!!
We are looking for talented people like you to be human shields against Iranian IED's and random Human Bombs.

Come join the National Guard - Signing Bonus. Special Hazard Pay to put your life on the line. And if you die.....Oh Well, WE PAY YOU $$$$!"

BE RICH IN THE AFTERLIFE!!!!

CALL TODAY - MR BUSH IS STANDING BY TO MEET CAREER MINDED INDIVIDUALS LIKE YOU!!!!

GOT A HEARTBEAT??? THEN WE WANT YOU!!!

The total cost of this war is unforeseeable and to date the money spent could have been invested to have the entire United States running on renewable energy resources or feed every poor person amongst us for a lifetime, but is instead fattening the very wallets of those we fight. The price has been paid with lives alone, not to mention a continually weakening economy and the U.S. Dollar at its lowest value ever in history.

I meet people from Europe on a weekly basis and the first thing they always wanna do is buy stuff because "everything is so cheap here". Remember the day when you were pissed to discover you received a Canadian dime as change by mistake? I recently listed a bike for sale and everyone that wanted it was from another country because with the rate of exchange it was the deal of a lifetime.

Congratulations Mr. President as you leave our country in total chaos. The time to fix these issues will take longer than your total time in power.

One president was too busy playing golf and getting blowjobs during office hours while the next is finishing a personal family vendetta, too busy reading stories to elementary kids in order to respond to the attacks of 911.

"Mr President we are under attack, both of the World Trade Center Towers Have Just Been Destroyed. Thousands Are Dead"

"Okay, just let me finish this book first...........My name is Sam I Am, Yes I Like Green Eggs And Ham"

Sounds like a bad joke but look up Mr President's initial response to the attacks.

Both overachievers were re-elected into office. One almost subsequently had his wife elected in the aftermath.

"VOTE HILLARY BECAUSE HER HUSBAND IS A PIMP" was the slogan if I recall. Or maybe it was "VOTE HILLARY BECAUSE SHES THE ONLY WOMAN WITH NUTS".

This sad reality is that this isnt CNN people, this is REAL LIFE.

When will we as a global community and the human race rise above the very idea of war itself and instead combine to invest in a quality of life unimagined?

History has taught us nothing at all.

The sad answer is never.

PRESIDENT WANTED:

Im not a political person and will talk about the power of a better beat before Ill discuss most matters involving Donkeys and Elephants.

I will say this, in a crucial time for America we could definitely be ready for a younger president.

Your choices have been narrowed: I feel one may have great intentions but is largely inexperienced. I feel the other may be too old and not a drastic enough of a change for a large percentage of people unhappy with the current leadership. I also feel no Republican can possibly win this next term. People will deliberately vote non-Republican just for a safe alternative.

Whoever shall win, the challenges they will face are large and many. The job opening is close to the equivalent of a post-Enron CEO. How does a nation and economy that was deliberately built around gasoline engines move forward? How does a nation that has led the world for over half of a century play catch up and reiterate its role? How does a sole person restore faith and confidence in every consumer and citizen nationwide?

Im Optimistic, Its Possible. But Its Going To Take Time And Work.

I hereby nominate Kermit the Frog as I feel he is the only one who can save us as well as the declining amphibians world wide.

Vote Green! Because Frogs are Cool. At some point in their lives they have both gills and lungs, how can you compete with that?

These thoughts are the repercussions of allowing me to have Red Bull while out dancing.

The Keystone State

2008-07-21T00:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I miss home. Most of the time would be a much more accurate statement. Im way past the physical location and was upon my departure, its the simplicity of life and the people that stay in my thoughts. Reminders will spark my memory and bring forth flashbacks of a life once lived. This process could be spawned from a very deliberate hint like the current fad of some of the west coast dancers and hiphop artists wearing Pittsburgh Pirates hats. (Ill stand there and gaze at the hat wondering why the hell the Pirates when we are the host of the amazing Steelers or Penguins.) As well as being at a convenience store or gas station and humbly wishing it was Sheetz as I gaze at yesterdays stale, chicken salad sandwich marked "fresh" - shrink wrapped in the 'prepared food' section next to the chucked pile of bananas and microwaveable burritos.

Other subtle experiences will hint at PA Life: Seeing a wagging tailed labrador out in the park anxiously awaiting any given command and the chance to please. A Steaming Cup of Hot Cocoa. A rare cloudy California day. The story of a summer thunder shower. A domestic automobile. Gloves. Hoodies. Holidays. Bypassing a sign for a 24 hour super walmart on the interstate and having that immediate comfort of knowing I can get the perfect mixture of m&ms, a plasma tv, a car battery, and a floor lamp all on a whim at any given time . Cheesy pop remixes labeled as House Music.

All said, my most favorite memory would be a quick, crisp chill in the air from the Pacific Bay Winds, just long enough to remind me of the northeastern early autumn season. The vast array of earth toned colors mark the landscape like a box of brand new Crayolas - Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Brown, and every color in between. The warm turned cooling air. Indirect, fading sunlight. Football season. Early Nights. November snow flakes that disappear upon contact with Mother Nature's Core. Watching the progression of summer life fade slowly from lush and lively green to a warm and comforting brown, then slowly towards the emptiness of winter's grey - all with the falling of a naked oak's foliage slowly rocking itself to earth and crunching under my Nikes. If its not too cold or wet I just may crack a smile. But in the northeast, who has time to smile..........we got shit to do.

Life moves forward.

A little video tribute to Pennsylvania:

Find more videos like this on www.truveo.com.

Speechless

2008-07-03T03:22:00.000-07:00

Damn, he's done it again.

His albums continue to leave me at a loss for words.

All I can do is nod my head in appreciation of his epic journeys through sound.

A Salesman Is Born

2008-06-28T04:37:00.001-07:00

Back to the Left Coast means Back to Work.

Back to the infinite process of fine tuning my life. Back to becoming a better dancer. A superior bike rider. A higher tuned athlete. And lately..........a dollar turning SALESMAN.

For all of those that know me Ive never tried to sell anyone anything in life. Even when I had my own business I had a reputation for being pressure free. People would invest in me knowing they would leave with exactly what they needed. In my current line of work, I always viewed myself as an informant who helps someone find what they are looking for by teaching them about how specific products could benefit their life or enhance their skillset at the smallest impact to their checking account as opposed to they guy in the plaid suit and bowtie who tries to sell you backyard squirrel zappers. Picture a giant, amped up bug light zapper with bird feed in the middle that bakes a furry tailed rodent from raw to overcooked in nanoseconds. Add some savory spices and special sauce to the handy, removable tray and you got yourself an automatic barbeque friend. Those pesky squirrels are history and as a bonus you dont even have to worry about dinner.

That said, seems like everywhere I go someone is trying to sell me something. If I go to the grocery store, the layout designers are trying to sell me baked goods, dvds, and hair combs when all I really want is tea, chocolate, and maybe some oranges and chicken. Speaking of fruit, Apple is trying to sell me overpriced mp3 players by using bright, savy sillhouette dancers on billboards, internet, and tv ads that convince me I need one of their devices to find my inner groove. And Ill be honest, those ads are so brilliant and fun that I want one of whatever they are selling - whether it be an electronic device, a multi-functional phone, or furniture polish. If I could dust my coffee table and have the kind of fluorescent fun shown in their marketing ads, Ill take a dozen.

Back to the original intent of the post, my car insurance agent sends me pamphlets on how I cant afford to live without homeowners insurance when they have the most current information that I infact fact rent an apartment. Fake friends selling me on their sincerity and genuineness. Shopping for a car???....Then you could finish my next sentence. I come home from a hard day of work and countless marketing assaults in a place I pay to live only to find daily restaurant coupons and/or menus taped to my door, and being that I live in the Bay Area seems like the majority of those ads are for either Sushi or Burritos, and I dont indulge on either. I try to watch a movie for entertainment and Im conveniently reminded to buy Coca Cola and JIF Peanut Butter. Subway Sandwiches selling me on being skinny. Everyone that knows me is aware of just how much I need to be skinny. Hell, even cute little geckos and ever living Cave Men are trying to sell me. To top it all off, people and companies are even trying to sell me products at my place of work in person and on the phone where, guess what????......................................our business is to SELL goods and services!!

All of the above considered, my level of toleration surpassed by people trying to impose their will on me daily, as well as the simple lack of excitement lately has made this raw, competitive bboy decide to elevate my selling skills just for the simple thought. Afterall, its a capitalist society and the key to capitalism is SELLING! Might as well be a Salesman.

My position at my company doesnt require me to directly sell and I am paid for an entirely other skill set such as industry trends and personnel/product training, however lately I have been taking every opportunity available to just straight up SELL. This 'skill' has absolutely no effect on my current job status and wont give me any promotion or return other than the satisfaction that If im visiting one of our stores and a customer stops me to ask advice on a product, Im selling them for the time invested. Ive even been analyzing in my brain that I may be overselling during a specific conversation Im engaged in with a customer, and still I just push it to the next level to fine tune this newly acquired ability and see just how far people will go. Besides, people like to take the opportunity to boast about how much cash they make and the irrelevant things they own - at times even when they dont - so now I turn that into convincing them they need ear warmer-warmers. You never know when the experience of being able to SELL may pay dividends in the future.

A guy comes in one of our stores with his newly found girlfriend and challenges my knowledge to try and seem dominate and all knowing........."show your girl you take her commitment to the sport serious by buying her this titanium railed womens specific saddle", hes most likely too stuck on impressing her to say no. A silver haired executive shows up in his freshly detailed, yellow porsche conveniently parking where everyone can see his ride?.........homie's getting a $4000 carbon bicycle just to ride to the mailbox. The guy with dreads in front of whole foods who hits me up with his jingling can for some different charity every single time I walk by the store.........he's going home with everything I can fit into his rusted out volkswagen bug which most likely runs on biofuel. "Buy this product.....its eco-friendly and all the proceeds go to some rich guy's special cause"

SELL! UPGRADE! ACCESSORIZE!

I thought everyone would find this post humorous knowing me as a person, but even more so I needed to document that its been an interesting experiment. I realize just how much more you can actually convince a person they need to 'enhance their life experience' or in some cases just to 'keep up with the Jones'.

Let this be a lesson that perhaps we all are living in excess. Be a consumer of how to live life to its absolute fullest. How much do we really need to survive and be happy? Come see me at work and Ill try convincing you just how much........

Get Your Popcorn Ready - Back to the Left Coast

2008-06-20T04:01:00.000-07:00

Well, my journey went by even quicker than I imagined. One minute Im setting down my luggage on the humid, hot east coast while contemplating the contents of my weeks to come and then the next, Im repacking my things wondering where it all went.

Thanks to all of those who made my journey satisfying beyond measures and I cant express in words how much I value our time together. Despite expensive air travel and partial unpaid leave from work, I could never put a price on the memories I carry forward. Sitting with my grandmother on her porch, listening to the birds sing as we relive and debate anything and everything in life with no account of time. Playing meaningless games with my sisters and their little babies fresh to the world. Conversations with those that value life more than the car they drive or the salary they can be potentially paid. Interacting with girls who are as beautiful as they are real. Swearing at people who cut you off in traffic and having them return the favor. An afternoon thunderstorm. Good food on demand at any given time of day or night, including in-season Strawberry Pie. My boy on the turntables who gave me an unprompted shoutout while reminding the ladies I was available for parties and magically 21 again. Drag racing my rental car. Breakdancing in the movie theater. ...The trip was everything I hoped for and more. "Bboys Unite", and we most certainly did, silencing the critics with the shock and awe phase of our campaign on a nightly basis.

From the Steel City to the Bay, its time to hop on an overcrowded plane refreshed and rejuvenated as I race the sunrise across the coast at 38000 feet to the fitting sounds of Tiesto's latest masterpiece, drawing up a gameplan of X's and O's for the next phase of life.

Back to overcoming adversity just for the sheer sport of it.

California...........................Its Superficialicious. Indulge accordingly.

Take Me Back LL.

Ho(e)

2008-05-25T03:33:00.000-07:00

One of my boys from home told me that a general rule of thumb is if a girl acts like a hoe then you simply need to treat her like one. What exactly is a hoe one might ask? Good question, so I thought Id do some research:

hoe Audio Help [hoh] Pronunciation noun, verb, hoed, hoe·ing.

–noun

1.	a long-handled implement having a thin, flat blade usually set transversely, used to break up the surface of the ground, destroy weeds, etc.

2.	any of various implements of similar form, as for mixing plaster or mortar.

–verb (used with object)

3.	to dig, scrape, weed, cultivate, etc., with a hoe.

–verb (used without object)

4.	to use a hoe.

[Origin: 1325–75; ME howe <>houe <>houwe, OHG houwa mattock; akin to HEW]

—Related forms

hoer, noun

hoelike, adjective

Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006.

Replaceable

2008-05-25T03:08:00.000-07:00

Back by semi-popular demand are some thoughts and feelings from inside what I thought was my unique perspective of life. That said, its the perfect time to share a post thats filled my head at random times as of lately.

Being individuals we all assume our life is special and we are different than everyone else. We assume we will reach a special place in life that perhaps noone or very few before us could ever achieve or maybe even comprehend. Another example would be that we rationalize a decision or idea based on the fact that since it involves us its of most importance. The sad reality is we are simply one of millions of species, on a single planet of thousands, in a galaxy made up of many. We are in fact guests to the god known as time just passing through its everlasting world. Our lifespan is mere nanoseconds to time, the equivalent of perhaps a shooting star out of the corner of your eye which you arent even completey sure you saw, and thats at most. Contributors of our world like the first civilizations of man, midevil artists who had perspectives that to this day we still cant comprehend, explorers who refused to accept, impacting world leaders who shaped our global community, human rights activisits who helped all of mankind get closer to an equal opportunity, famed athletes who set records deemed unbreakable, or our great, great grandparents who are directly responsible for our exact existence and whom we've only seen in fuzzy, uncolored photographs .........all dead, gone, and rarely thought about.

All of the forementioned talked about less and less until evolution and new achievements make them all but meaningless. At some point in time half of those mentioned in history books will no longer be listed due to new periods of time and the fact that their lives 'simply cant fit into print'.

Think you are great at your job? You could be replaced in weeks if not days. Think you have a bond with someone that could never be duplicated? Perhaps you are already unknowingly up for trade. Think life will work out differently for you because you are special? So has everyone before you soon to be replaced by everyone that follows.

So knowing this, Where do we as individuals fit into this proven theory and how do we accept that we are mere white dash lane markers on the highway of infinity? If there are those of us that want to bust out and do or be something special, how do we do this knowing the preceding? How do we prove that yes, we are special, unique, and full of color in a world filled with black and white? How does my tiny brain thats relatively the same size as yours and everyone you know comprehend doing something so special that Im forever remembered throughout the life of time itself?

Unfortunately, despite how special we feel, its simply impossible and to a superior species that could exist we are nothing but mere ants. In a 100 mile radius of my current home alone there are 7 million plus ants all doomed to be squished or burned by a magnifying glass, meanwhile thinking they too are one of a kind.

Noone wants to believe that they are, afterall .....................Replaceable.

Its hard to accept.

Untitled

2008-05-22T02:05:00.001-07:00

Wow............It hurts way more than I ever expected it possibly could.

Everytime you think you elevate your life to a new level of what you assume is progression through positive hope you are quickly brought back by the sad reality of truth.

How do we live with ourselves?

Happy Feet

2008-04-29T02:04:00.001-07:00

I dont enjoy sports to the level that I do because Im shallow or a typical guy. Its not the need for physical aggressiveness or raw speed that catches my attention. Mostly, I enjoy sports because it provides me with Inspiration.

Inspiration to overcome what we deem impossible. Inspiration to better myself at every opportunity. When I was young sports provided me with many basic morals and hope amidst a hard, non-positive environment. Id show up at these specific events forgetting my troubled, abusive world at home and focus on being the absolute best athlete I could be. I would manage my body and my life in order to tune myself to be better at a specific sport. I would like to think that eventually transcended into my desire to be the absolute best person I could be in life on a daily basis. A hard worker. A great friend. The best brother. A reliable confidant. An unbeatable athlete. An exhilarating dancer. An intelligent being. An enjoyable conversationalist.

In case you havent heard, the Pittsburgh Penguins are straight up DOPE.

Unbeaten in the post season, its been a pleasure watching them fly around the ice with the speed, skill, and energy level these young cats (well penguins I guess) exude. Ive watched and played hockey for over 10 years now on and off, but Ive never seen a team so incredibly young blaze the sheets of hard frozen water like they have this post season. The other teams seem like they are in slow motion and despite how physical and aggressive the competition plays, these young birds have a level of skill and finesse that has been left unanswered and very fun to watch.

Exciting times for a city that almost lost its hockey team just a few, short years back followed by acquiring the youngest star in hockey who is now just 20 years old and the #1 player in all of the professional NHL with the statistics to back it up. In 2 years time the Burg went from the Penguins potentially moving to Kansas City to a totally renewed interest in the sport, supporting the team close to the level of their beloved Steelers, with recent playoff tickets selling out in just 10 minutes after going on sale as well as a brand new stadium approved and on the horizon.

Rock On Birds Of Steel.

And Put Me In The Lineup.

Looking Back In Order To See Ahead

2008-04-02T03:10:00.000-07:00

Its true, I miss my life past.

I miss my friends, my family, the world in which I knew so well but that which left me uncontent and desiring more.

I miss home, but I accept thats a past part of my life I cant relive in order to become the person I want to be along my route to destination unknown. My ticket of life is paid for in full and marked "unrefundable".

California is a world away from that life in which I lived.

Lets relive it just for a minute........

The Battle

2008-04-02T02:11:00.000-07:00

Everyday when I awake, I fight the good fight. Whatever has defeated me from the previous day and haunts my dreams makes me arise ambitious and determined to overcome and succeed, hellbent on victory.

Sometimes I Win.

Sometimes......... I Lose.

THE END.

Top Of The Food Chain

2008-03-31T01:59:00.001-07:00

As lame as Americas Best Dance Crew was, Jabbawockeez did the bboys around the world proud by showing the versatility in which we can offer.

So lets talk about the best Breaking Crews on a Global Scale outside the realm of MTV beginning and ending with the South Korean Boys from Expression.

South Korea owns the art at the moment taking the American created form, working feverishly at perfecting the implementation of style with their well known history of asian acrobatics. The bboy movement is so huge there it can not really be measured, the government currently pays the best of the best to tour South Korea as if they were the equivalent of American basketball stars, showcasing their skills for all to see and being idolized by many. The next generation of Bboys are dancing in their schools, playgrounds, and anywhere they can find suitable space all hoping to become one of those chosen few.

They're arguably the best and not because they are more gifted, but because they simply work HARD and the competition is so fierce amongst themselves they are moving the bar in order to stand out.

The question is.......how will American bboys respond to reclaim that in which they invented? How will bboys around the world respond, who will raise the bar, and where will the level be set in another decade? From the streets of the Bronx to every corner of the world..........stay tuned to find out.

The King Of Pop

2008-03-11T02:12:00.000-07:00

Yeah, hes crazy...............hes also the the best independently styled dancer and music video king of all time. I remember the days of early youth ripping it in my living room to the original Thriller cassette while anticipating every video release, but what I didnt know then was that his inspiration would last a lifetime.

Happy 25th Anniversary Of Thriller to The King Of Pop & Entertainment.

I will humbly make a dancing tribute video showcasing his style sometime soon and I will be sure to post.

The Speed Of Life

2008-02-23T03:13:00.000-08:00

Today on a day off I sat and contemplated my life over a cup of hot tea at my desk, looking out upon the clearing California sky. One of my favorite views from my window is that of the big green Santa Cruz Mountains protruding out of nowhere, foreshadowed by a few wavering palm trees and the mystical rays of sunshine. I thought about all the places and positions Ive been in life and the resulting connected emotions, as well as what ultimately will be the conclusion of the existence of bboyheat. From this thought came the realization of just how fast life really is and how quickly it all passes by.

As I pondered this deep thought in my morning decaffeinated haze, an exact picture popped into my head and I decidingly pledged at that moment if I could find the associated picture online I was then obligated to write this post.

The Speed Of Life Is Like So. Click To Experience.

Pushing the Bar (Acceptable Humor)

2008-02-23T02:58:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when the discussions of cartoons or modern day sitcoms arise, I attempt to explain to people how writers push the bar of whats acceptable and whats just simply too extreme for humor. What better example could I provide than that of last night's episode of Family Guy.

Prom Night Dumpster Baby:

Yeah, I laughed............but I felt guilty in the aftermath.

So Cal Bboys Representin'

2008-02-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

Ever hear the complaint bboys arent legit dancers because they cant study choreography?? Check this out....

Really Nice Peformance. Great Sync, Versatility, and Substance. Faceless dancers make you focus on their form and style.

California is big on expression and acceptance, thus its full of dancers which feeds my soul.

I cant help but laugh about JC Chasez being the critical judge on the show.......HES FROM NSYNC. If you are gonna be critical, lets begin with that fact.

Hahaha.

MTV Sucks By The Way. Pass it on.

SuperBowl Revisited

2008-02-08T01:31:00.000-08:00

So its been a few days since the Superbowl and I still cant stop smiling.

What made me decide to write this post was just reading online that Tom Brady and Randy Moss have passed on playing in the Pro Bowl this coming weekend after their recent loss. The MVP of the league passing on the All Star Game in Hawaii. Awwww.

Why be in beautiful Honalulu in the midst of winter when you can be in Boston freezing your ass off??

Not only is their head coach a sore loser by leaving the field with time left on the clock during the big game and deliberately knowing he did so (I saw the referee cut him off and tell him there was time left on the clock), but being the typical weeny he has come to be known as he continued on his path to the locker room with his head down, embarrassed by the clinic the Giants sponsored on how to play defense. Perhaps the Steelers could study some notes on that game to finally figure out a solution to being beat by the Patriots year after year.

You dont accidentally beat the Patriots.

The Giants werent given any real shot to win despite their flawless play since they barely lost to the Patriots but a month ago, yet they showed up and realistically dominated the Super Bowl after winning tough games back to back all on the road against the Bucs, Cowboys, and the powerful Packers in frigid conditions. Brady was pressured, hit, and frustrated more than I have ever seen him in years past.

The world rejoices as New England has lost.

Congratulations to Eli Manning on his SuperBowl victory and MVP game status. I still hold a grudge against him for being a baby in the draft and telling the Chargers that if they drafted him he would sit out. There are worst things in life than being paid millions of dollars to be the quarterback of a team hosted in a great city like that of San Diego, despite a few years of not being a winning football team. That said, Im willing to overlook it until he does something else to bother me. He has overcome so much during his tribulations in the Pros and constantly being unfairly compared to his superstar brother Peyton. NYC is a tough place to be an athlete with the constant controversy and spotlight.....1 year ago people had said Eli didnt deserve to start and the NY Giants head coach had to persuade general management why he should keep his job.

A superbowl victory will silence both.

Another congrats goes out to Plax as Im happy he got a superbowl win. Once a Pittsburgh Steeler........always a Steeler. Remember that Plax played most of this season hurt with a leg injury and was unable to practice during the week for most of the season. One of my favorite moments of the post season past other than Hines housing the Jaguars late in the game is Plax going to the sideline of the Packers bench in the Playoffs and telling the GB team "your defensive back cant cover me" as he made catches all day in that game. This seasons play by Plax has begun to separate him into the class of one of the premier receivers in the league.

Short of the Steelers playing in the big game, and still slightly disappointed that the Packer's Favre ended a great season with another textbook profile forced pick, I am happy for the Giants and glad someone finally beat the Patriots.

New England, your perfect season is totally FORGOTTEN.

Now we root for the Pens as we head into the hockey playoffs just around the corner. Exciting times in rekindled Pittsburgh hockey with the best player in the league. In Sid Crosby we trust.

The other big annual sports spectacle has recently lost its charm. The Tour De France is now simply just the Tour de Dope. Just a short span from a few years ago when Lance dominated the sport and every year was filled with all emotions one can feel, to the past two years of watching the circus of leaders being pulled daily for doping. Im simply no longer convinced the sport can be clean. I just enjoy the sport for what it is without the professional influence. Go out and ride your bike and indulge in the pure joy and natural high in which that brings. Reading about the future of doping in the sport being that of bioengineered DNA structure which basically means a genetically engineered athlete as opposed to chemical substance is just too crazy to comprehend. Or maybe its I just dont want to. I cant help but feel The Discovery Channel shares the same opinion as they have dropped their sponsorship.

Lastly, Ill cry again for the NFL to allow downstreaming of games over the internet in 2008 as so many of us could eliminate the need for a television. Ill even pay for the games..........honestly I will. ;)

Spring is coming to form in Cali and its only the first week of February. With Spring comes renewal, rebirth, and change of life as we know it.

Appreciation

2008-01-29T02:55:00.001-08:00

Well......here we are 2008.

Do you remember when we were kids and they talked in terms of the first decade of the next millenium? I remember the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey from when i was pretty young and how that movie was portrayed as if in 2001 we'd all be living in city sized Spaceships voyaging through wormholes in Outerspace. Well fortunately, life hasnt turned out quite like that to this point in time. Technology has come a long way since those days when I was watching a television with rabbit ears and playing my beastie boys - license to ill record, but still the basic fundamentals of life remain largely unchanged.

Still with every year and milestone in life we contemplate where we stand, where we are headed, and undeniably where we should be based on society's judgement of life as a timeline.

As California has provided me with somewhat of a rebirth in life, I cant help but think back to where I was, where I come from, and all those that have entered and exited my world. Ive been exposed to many challenges and events since moving; somethings I love and appreciate about my current position like the endless perfect climate, and somethings I miss like people and characteristics of a life past.

The future is an open, blank book yet to be inked and who knows where we will end up and how that journey will change the person we are inside. In the book of life some pages will be very positive and uplifting..... Others will be dark and tragic.

From every part of life I try to take things that have had a big impact on me and smile if possible at events that will leave a permanent mark on my soul. In any situation you should try to capitalize on the positives to create a healthier, happier self. And one of those things this past year has been the opportunity to work and train with some amazing dancers that share the same passion and understanding of a simple, timeless pleasure.

I have taken advantage of my current place of residence by studying under a teacher, artist, and friend whom I respected from the opposite coast for a few years and I was very fortunate to be quickly linked to him upon my arrival. In the pursuit of his classes came the opportunity to meet some newly found friends and solid dancers which are now a consistent part of the weekly cycle. He has helped me along my own path and evolution as a dancer without question. When work is tasking, Im missing those I care about so deeply and wondering how they all got lost, or I wonder where I fit in this complex world in which we exist, I look forward to the weekly diet of form, structure, and substance in which he provides. I thought Id share a little video of him in appreciation.

With losses in life come new gains that arent by any measure better, but are always different and contribute to the end result.

Thanks JRD.

All Good Things Must Come To An End

2008-01-06T02:31:00.000-08:00

This post is in appreciation and acceptance of the Pittsburgh Steelers season end of 2007.

As Ive attempted to adapt to life far from home (here we go again), one of my closest comforts and drive comes from that of The Pittsburgh Steelers (sad but true).

Today marked the end of the 2007 season as the Steelers lost a close, heartfelt game to the pansy Jacksonville Jaguars who can try to be the Steelers but never will be. After being pummeled by the Jags a few short weeks ago in Pittsburgh, today was a chance at redemption for the black and gold in the best situation possible - the underdog role which the Steelers play so well. If you expect the Steelers to lose a game thats when they will show up and smack you in the mouth like against the "Unbeatable Colts" of 2005. Doing the undoable is what we do. Even The Worst Official Call in NFL History (the Polamalu didnt complete a football move during what would have been the game ending interception against the Colts) couldnt deny our destiny that season.

Back to the present, I was delighted to be off work to see the game in HD and expected the Steelers to show up and play hard. Truth is, they did show up to play and outplayed the Jags in all phases of the game and where its most important - being physical. The last minute loss was the result of the turnover game which will get you everytime - if you turn the ball over for scores multiple times you cannot win the game. All of the Jags points came off of turnovers or mistakes made by Pittsburgh other than the final game ending winning field goal. Even that was followed up by a last chance for Pittsburgh to win the game which was quite doable but that also ended in another turnover. Truth is Im proud of the way Pitt played and the heart they displayed during their late game comeback but its sad to see the season end for them and to impatiently await another 8 months until I see them again. And even then its a different team, different year which brings a different connection to that specific team.

The season started off amazing as the Steelers owned the statistics of games at the same pace as the hyped Patriots, but Pittsburgh's successful season was diluted by a combination of the Pats and Colts drive for perfection and domination added to the disappointing senseless losses the Steelers suffered to teams with overall losing records such as the Cardinals, Jets, and Broncos as well as the meltdown they had against the Patriots late in the season. The loss to the Patriots is simply explained, the same reason the Steelers have lost just about every game to the Patriots the past decade is their inability to stop the pass in the secondary and pressure Brady. I dont understand, they never seem to accomplish these feats regardless of being retaught the lesson season after season.

A few things are certain about this past season: Roethlisberger and Parker had amazing seasons that should leave them both very proud and confident in the offseason. Roeth quietly had the second best passer rating in the NFL and a stellar year, but again was overshadowed by Mr. ButtChin (Tom Brady). Parker was realistically the seasons top rusher and had more yards in the season than the amazing LT up until the play he was injured in the next to last game of the season, which speaks for itself without any added selling. With all the corresponding franchise records, Hines Ward showed his unrelentless heart and leadership, as well as his ability to knock people out as he does season after season. Hines played with such passion in the loss to the Jags today to the point I saw him almost cry on the sideline while being consoled by coach Tomlinson when the Steelers were on the comeback late in the game. Along with when he layed a cornerback out returning an interception in the Bengals game this season and immediately stood up facing the Bengals bench and waiving out the medical staff knowing the player wasnt going to get up from his hit (and the player didnt), these were two of the most intense displays of emotion Ive seen from him other than his home visit to South Korea. Two attributes of a great leader are Passion and Intensity. Hines has both. He simply plays the game the way we all wish we could. You cant like football and not love Hines Ward.

Overall Im sad and a little disappointed with the end result of the season, but a pretty decent season is in the books for the Burgh. Unfortunately there can only be one winner which brings me to todays riddle:

Q. Who will win the Super Bowl, the Patriots or the Colts?

A. Who Gives A Shit. Would somebody just Please beat the f#@king Patriots.

After years of spycamming teams it may take a few seasons for everyone to change their entire playbook, but I look forward to the year the Patriots just plain suck.

Guess At this point Ill root for the Packers or whomever the hell else I feel like at the moment should they lose, but as the answer to the riddle indicates it doesnt really matter.

Ive been a diehard Steelers fan pretty much since birth and have the baby pictures of being in my Bradshaw Steelers Jersey blowing out my 4th birthday cake candles. Ive missed probably two dozen games total since as far back as I can remember and Im not ashamed to admit it. My greatest memories are casual Sundays accompanied by those closest to me rooting for the Black & Gold. As a super active youth I always took time out of my schedule to tune in for the weekly battles.

I cant put my finger on what it is exactly but like all phases of my life they are deeply engraved within.

It May Sound Silly But At GameTime I Always Feel I Can Relate:

"Being the Running Back of Hopes And Dreams Facing The Harsh Defensive Front Of Reality and the Hard Hitting Secondary Of Life, And Seeking To Take Them Both... Head On."

This past season of life had me living in hiatus for awhile sleeping in my car thousands of miles from home with noone to depend on, and I made it through that time, like every other obstacle thrown at me during my short lifespan, completely on my own far from the comforts of a previous life - hellbent on the promise of the future. Making my mark.

See You In 2008 Pittsburgh.

All Said, I leave you with the timeless words and interview of Jim Mora.

Vietnamese Haircut

2008-01-06T01:06:00.000-08:00

There is a funny irony here in California. Actually there are many funny ironies, but todays blog will focus on one in particular: Haircuts.

If you go to get a haircut at any given point in any given place in Cali, there is a very good chance an overly pleasant, friendly vietnamese lady will give you your new stylish do unless you go to a high end salon. Through my many experiences in different places in California due to my job, any given time I decide to get a haircut, in any given place in any part of any city there is always a smiling vietnamese lady standing at her chair, smiling and patiently awaiting my visit.

The humor in this post isnt even that point, its that every experience regardless of chain or place is deja vu of the previous visit. Regardless if its a well known chain, an independent stylist, or the $8.99 Hair & Nails spot next to the Liquor Store/Laundry Mat - You enter and are pleasantly greeted and talked to during the experience despite your inability to completely understand the conversation and the established fact that regardless of your description of how you want your haircut, you are coming off that chair with the same EXACT haircut time after time. After many disappointing haircuts and the unavoidable post disgruntlement, Ive tried to lighten up the situation and experiment.......Ive told the same and different places different clipper size attachments, different length measurements, and different combing styles to prove this theory and every time its the same cut. One length on the top, typically about 1 1/4" with a matching length on the side until about an inch above your ear where you will get buzzed. Makes your melon look like a perfect circle. Afterwards, if you take careful notice you'll spot that same haircut in different stages of its regrowth everywhere you visit. Its kinda the equivalent of going to a restaurant and ordering one of a hundred items on the menu which looks fulfilling and makes your mouth water only to end up leaving with a ham sandwich on a white roll in a "please come again" paper bag.

Whats the Vietnamese word for FADE or TEXTURE?

And anyone will tell you, theres no worse feeling than getting a bad haircut, better yet one that cost you money regardless of how much. You find yourself constantly looking in the mirror trying to adjust and fix your hair convincing yourself you can fix it with it product and combing methods when in fact........you simply cant.

You are left anticipating the regrowth of your hair so you can go and get another.................Ham Sandwich.

Due to the above Ive been contemplating going with the training haircut of the close buzz cut with defined lines until I meet the right person who comes close to the amazing skills of my ex stylist from home. Nothing like going into a place with complete confidence of receiving a great haircut time after time whether its something a little different and edgy, or the same old where no words are needed.

I decided to post this blog after careful consideration of stereotypes and being urged by one of my close asian friends at work who couldnt stop laughing about my explanation even hours later after the subject had been changed to more serious matters like the next post: THE NFL PLAYOFFS.

Stereotypes, although dangerous at some levels, can tend to be true and humorous if looked upon in a positive manner. Afterall, there is a reason those stereotypes usually exist and what makes us different better helps to make us a whole.

Somewhere In Vietnam......there is a nation of a thousand schools for hair stylists all created by the founder............... of the melon haircut.

Santa Cruz

2007-10-23T03:28:00.002-07:00

This past weekend I stayed with a fellow mountain biker and coworker which created my first opportunity to visit the beautiful beach town of Santa Cruz about 40 minutes southwest from my place of work in San Jose, Ca.

Santa Cruz is a pretty unique place of pacific beaches and high, dense coastal mountains all in one. A quick escape from the speed and concrete of Silicone Valley, you can be at sea level walking
shoeless in the sand on the beach while listening to the crash of the mighty waters of the pacific ocean and the bark of the sea lions, or exploring the lush mountainous terrains of Redwoods by bike or foot.

Preferably by bike.

I was rushed for time as the visit fell in between two days of intense work. But despite timelines, I managed to take a few, quick pictures to give some illustration to the feel of the beach side to Santa Cruz .

The top picture is the ocean perspective of the lighthouse on the beach with the mountains of the coastal town of Monterey in the distance, followed by the view of someone setting sail and taking on the intimidating sea and the legend of Davey Crockett amidst giant tootsie rolls. I also felt I needed to add the vintage american automobile pic with the backdrop of a palm tree and the cloudless California sky for that true west coast touch. Only in California could a car this classic be on the street daily - rust free.

In no time flat it was back to the grind of work which just so happens to be directly across the street from "Ebay Park". Ebay Park is basically a city in itself comprised of buildings and divisions owned and operated by the online auction mega-giant Ebay. A pretty impressive sight considering Ebay is a company who doesnt make a physical product, but instead generates income on items other people own.

If you have ever wondered why their fees and cuts
continuously rise, view the beautiful, large complex of Ebay in the most expensive real estate in the country next to Manhattan, NY.

Ebay Listing - For Sale: Pictures of Ebay Park - 50 Cents Per View - BUY IT NOW!

Next visit of Santa Cruz will definitely result in
some pictures of the incredible mountain biking
which exists there.

The Beginning Of A Journey

2007-10-17T02:16:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new blog.

My life is taking on an interesting, but challenging journey as it has dramatically changed as of recently. As I continue to evolve my artistic sense, I thought I would make an attempt at creative writing as I go through the process of re-adapting from being born and raised in Nowheresville, Pennsylvania to currently taking on the world in The Bay Area of California.

From living a life with someone whom I assumed would be there forever......to being alone and on my own, trying to make it and actively use my talents and abilities. I hope to keep this blog interesting, educational, and amusing with facts, pictures, and perspectives of my life for all to enjoy.