Digitizing Life

March 23 List

2011-03-22T21:10:00.001-05:00

- worked out
- made nutrious breakfast and dinner
- went to the dentist
- wrote Congressmen letters in support of public broadcasting

March 22 List

2011-03-21T20:52:00.000-05:00

- sent emails
- read, wrote, and meditated
- worked out
- made nutrious meals
- stopped at the hardware store
- watched the King's Speech

March 13 list

2011-03-14T13:46:00.001-05:00

- called to wish my dad a happy birthday
- worked on This American Life resume site
- did a leg workout
- prepared and ate a nutritious meal
- cooked dinner with a friend
- witnessed a break-in and swarm of cops in the Lower East Side, exiting

March 12 List

2011-03-12T23:42:00.002-06:00

- taught guitar lessons
- thrift'd for new pants, support a friend's business
- worked out in the park
- watch cyclist in the Columbia, Grants Tomb Race
- learned to play The Gardner by The Tallest Man on Earth
- had a terrific date with my guitar

March 11 List

2011-03-11T23:17:00.001-06:00

- created MobileMe ebay auction
- posted blog posts
- worked on This American Life coverletter
- re-discovered Camille Saint-Saёns' Carnival of the Animals
- digitized BBC nature videos of monkeys doing it
- watched the first season of Arrested Development
- practiced guitar

Oh and a little message from dear mother:

Hey Shawn,

I've done the same thing......it is very satisfying &  accomplishing to cross off your 'to do' list.  Just be careful that your  daily list isn't too long to begin with, so you don't get frustrated  when you have to keep bumping a project to next day's list. I found  lists very helpful when I would start a project & then get  distracted or when on to something else & didn't get back to  original project/or 'to do' thing.

By the way, how did the banana bread get burnt? Do you have a bread pan to bake it in?

Yea, I forgot it was in the oven.

March 10 List

2011-03-11T11:03:00.003-06:00

- worked on This American Life resume and coverletter
- helped a blogging friend who will someday become famous of inspiring others
- donated money to Moveon.org
- read up on Wisconsin state issues
- researched resume & job interviewing tactics
- baked banana bread (and burned it....)
- made nutritious dinner
- rekindled my love with Satie's Trois Gymnopedies

Lists

2011-03-09T11:18:00.004-06:00

I am not a fan of frustrating days. Particularly the ones where you don't even realize they were frustrating till the end of the day. You start thinking back to all the things you wanted to get done, and not a one accomplished.

I've been having those days lately.

To correct the problem, I'm starting a new tactic today. Taking after the advice of a very good friend, I'm going to start making lists. A list of everything I want to get done throughout the day. As I get something done, I cross it off the list. If I do something that was not on the list, I add it do the list and cross it off. If I don't get something done on the list that I wanted to, it gets bumped to another day. No biggie.

At the end of the day, it feels amazing to look at that list and realize just how much I really do in a day. From productive career work to the simple act of taking care of myself, there's a lot that gets done. That being said, I don't think I'm going to catalog everything (i.e. brushing my teeth, riding the train) However, if I feel it was a significant enough part of my time or day, then I'll put it down.

So where does one host such lists? I thought of getting a nice notebook or leather-bound something-or-other. But I'm on this minimalization kick lately, so I think I'll keep it digital. And why keep this nifty idea to myself when I can share it with the world.

Enjoy the following posts, cause they'll truly be a digitalization of my life.

- made nutritious breakfast
- worked on This American Life coverletter
- mailed a birthday card
- mailed a letter
- found banana bread recipe

4 ripe bananas (mashed)
1/3 cup melted butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon backing soda
pinch of salt
1 & 1/2 cups flour
Bake at 350F for 1 hour

- worked on figuring out iTunes podcast hosting
- figured out how to host multiple websites with iWeb
- visited art fashion show at New School
- visited friend at Cure Thrift Shop
- few beers with friends, discussed therapy, religion and life
- had a 2Bros pizza slice to finish off the night
- started new blogging venture or listing

Kill'n Some Time in Technicolor

2010-08-20T22:09:00.002-05:00

Do yourself a favor and try this

http://www.addictinggames.com/color-of-theory-game.html

This Pleases Me

2010-08-08T19:47:00.001-05:00

In Maine

2010-08-03T08:28:00.000-05:00

Come to Center Lovell, Maine!

Immortality Drive

2010-03-31T19:15:00.003-05:00

Did you know this existed? Cause I sure didn't.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immortality_Drive

I'm Back

2010-03-11T12:30:00.006-06:00

Life has been interesting lately. Ups and downs. To sum it up simply, I'll quote the great LCD Soundsystem.

New York I Love You, but You're Bring Me Down

However, I was still productive over the past month or so since my last post. Mostly resulting in this:

www.shawnconnellysound.com

What Do You Mean, I'm Not Wearing Pants?

2010-01-11T09:56:00.002-06:00

Rocking in the Heights

2010-01-01T21:37:00.005-06:00

As mentioned in a previous post, playing tour guide makes one feel like they really belong somewhere. Round two of my tour guiding came mid-December when my father came out for a visit. We never really had any set agenda. Lots of walking and seeing what there is to see.

On a particular Tuesday we must have put eight miles under our feet. While I can't be exactly sure where exactly we walked, the Google map at right is some indication of the very indirect route we took to wherever it is we all went.

Voyaguer

2010-01-01T21:34:00.002-06:00

http://voyager.jpl.nasa.gov/spacecraft/spacecraftlife.html

Snow

2010-01-01T21:32:00.003-06:00

Contrary to popular belief. There are not 12 words for snow in the Inuit language. But it's fun to pretend.

http://www.putlearningfirst.com/language/research/eskimo.html

http://ontology.buffalo.edu/smith/varia/snow.html

Running into the New Year

2010-01-01T19:13:00.004-06:00

This morning I welcomed in the New Year in the healthiest way that I believe I ever have. Healthy mentally, spiritually, and most of all, physically. I slipped and slid my way into 2010 by participating in the New York Road Runners Midnight Run.

Imagine a New Year's Eve like most peoples. Get together with friends at somebody's place or a bar a few hours before midnight. Have a nice dinner, a glass of wine, some more drinks. Get good and liquored up before the ball drop. Like an intoxicated choir, you count down the final ten seconds in unison.... 3-2-1 Happy New Year!! You cheer, grab the person next to you, kiss them, and shout some syllables that resemble the lyrics to Auld Lang Syne. This is not unlike a New Year's Eve of my past.

Compared to my New Year's Eve last night. Similar in some fashions. Went to a friend's place for nice dinner. Had a glass of wine with that dinner, and only that one glass of wine. Then continued to drink water. Hung out until about 11:00. Then got on the warmest running clothes we had and made our way to the 72nd Street entrance of Central Park. A crowd of a few thousand all in high spirits and tight running pants were there, ready to stomp in the new year by putting four miles under their legs. We corralled ourselves behind the start line, counted down as every other New Years Eve party does, and once we got down to 1, fireworks lit the sky and we began our run. Along the route drunks and sobers alike lined the road to slap hands with the runners as we all wished each other a great 2010. At the two mile water station they even had some sparkling apple cider to help runners traditionally welcome in the new year.

Afterward, we hung out in Central Park for a bit and joined in the party that was pumping there, a DJ and all the normal post run stations of water, fruits and bagels. That party didn't last long for us, as we were wet and beginning to get cold, so we hopped over to the nearest pub for a celebratory beer, and I mean a celebratory beer. In general, a pretty sober New Years in terms of alcohol, but absolutely intoxicating in terms of jovial spirits and proper beginnings.

If yesterday and today were any indication of how this new year is going to turn out, then be ready for a Shawn Connelly explosion. 2010 has arrived. I'm going to enjoy every second of it and it's going to love every second of me.

Touching the Hand of God

2009-12-01T23:55:00.009-06:00

Today I "shook" two hands that many would only dream of touching. I almost wet myself when I touched one, the other was nifty, but meh, didn't excite me.

A month ago I booked tickets for the Dr. Oz show, intending to go with my mother. Her flight, however, left the day before the show taping so I was left with two seats in the audience at 30 Rockefeller Center to see this glorified television doctor talk about health fads... at least I thought he was over-glorified. My mom loves this guy, but I never saw the appeal. Then I went to his show taping and was forced to watch an entire episode. He's actually quite an informative cat. On this particular episode, he talked about internet weight loss scams, asthmatic peoples, and self-defense, among other things. Seeing the magic behind the show (aka the amount of times he screws up and says "let's run it again") is interesting to witness. Later that day, however, I saw a true master practicing his craft.

Thanks to an incredibly generous friend, I was able to obtain a ticket to see a live taping of The Colbert Report. A dream. Seeing this show live was an utter dream. The taping began at 7:00pm. I got in line at 4:00. I wanted to be as close to Stephen as possible. I wanted to smell him (yes, my passion for Stephen is on the creepy side). If you ever watch the show, you'd be surprised how small the studio actually is, unlike Dr. Oz's ample space. Whenever Stephen runs from his desk to the interview table (by the fireplace) he over-exaggerates the run to make it seem father away than it is. It's actually like five steps.

Enough about the studio. Let's talk about how I was giddy as a school girl with a new My Little Pony. I almost cried when Stephen walked onto the set. Before the show, he always does a meet and greet with the audience. The fantastic part about this is he does it out of character. The narcissistic, cocky character that is Stephen Colbert gets set aside for a short moment and we get a view of the real Stephen.

The taping itself was a site to see. As is mentioned to the audience multiple times before we even enter the studio, Stephen is an improv actor. He did, after all, begin in sketch comedy. Therefore, to properly fuel Stephen, the audience is encouraged to laugh, hoot, holler, and enjoy themselves. Which is why you can hear me give an audible 'whoot' after Stephen mentions Boy Scouting around 3 minutes 23 seconds into the episode.

Once the cameras start rolling, Stephen just flows and never skips a beat. He takes about a 10 minute pause wherever a commercial break lies in the show. At that point, his director, producer, and make-up artist come to the desk and I assume brief each other on the following segment. Besides these little pauses, this comedic genius seems practically flawless. Even when his guests match him in whit. Such as tonight, Brother Guy Consolmagno, who talked about the Catholic church encouraging exploration of extraterrestrial life, and Sherman Alexie, a native American author who is fighting to keep books in print.

After the taping, Stephen sincerely thanked the audience for being a part of the show. I like to think that thank you was directed specifically at me. I proved it by diving over four chairs as he left the room to give him a high five. I'm never washing that hand again.

No Longer the Tourist

2009-11-26T23:48:00.006-06:00

Once you've played tour guide in a new city, you no longer feel like the tourist. You feel grounded. You feel a bit more like your actually there. I had such an opportunity with my mother's visit to NYC around Thanksgiving.

From our first night, we hit the city hard. Which I was happy about. With all the work lately, I have not had the opportunity to try many new things around the city. So I was more than pleased to galavant around Chinatown and Little Italy on our first night. All the Italian restaurants had just put up their Christmas displays for the season. Quite a site. We shared a delectable Italian seafood dish at Trattoria Canta Napoli on Mullbery. I also ate my weight in bread. I always overdose on the oil and balsamic vinegar.

After the meal, ma had to do some shopping of the unsavory sort. Although I feared for my life, we did, in fact survive.

We then journeyed uptown to see the night-turned-day monstrosity that is Times Square. Besides just taking it all in, we met some fantastic characters. One of them even tried to take advantage of my mother. We also had to use a public bathroom. Which would have been a problem were it not for the Charmin NYC Restrooms where we couldn't help but to "Enjoy the Go."

The next day was more getting around the city, seeing what there is to see. We started at my favorite grocer here in the city, the Union Square Green Market. The weather is getting cooler and a few of the farms have packed up shop for the season, but I can still find everything I need at this wonderful one-stop green shop.

We also just so happen to catch the opening day of the Union Square holiday market as well. Local retailers, human and dog alike, set up shop for the month of December to make Holiday shopping all that more convenient and not to mention fun! Oh and it was here that I had my first Waffle and Dinges treat, drenched in Nutella, an unhealthy but savory morsel.

The rest of our day consisted of visiting Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and then heading up to 76th street and Central Park West to watch the Balloons get blown up for the Macy's Parade the following day. That was quite a site. Seeing Kermit the Frog bent over in front of the Energizer Bunny. However, that was a great pre-show to our next destination, the musical Avenue Q. Parental discretion is advised.

The following day was a highlight of my mother's visit. The Macy's

Thanksgiving Day Parade. We woke up quite early, but it paid off as we got a solid spot standing right outside of Carnegie Hall to watch the floats and Balloons as they turned down 7th Avenue. My parade highlight reel would include Spiderman and some other rock'n balloon, Yo Gabba Gabba having their own float, the Roots (with Jimmy Fallon, who I could take or leave), and finally Cindy Lauper in a pretty pink castle.

The remainder of my mother's days in NYC were sprinkled with some work schedules that I couldn't ignore. However, we did take the Staten Island Ferry to see the Statue of Liberty, saw the play Our Town, and took a trip upstate to see the theme-park where I was employed this summer. Overall, I was a successful tour guide if I do say so myself. But whether I was that great or not, just lovely to spend some time with me mum.

Back at Penny's

2009-11-24T23:42:00.004-06:00

A week ago I had an incredible experience on this Penny's stage. I simply couldn't sit by and let that performance be a one time thing. So I made my way back to Under St. Mark's Theatre for the open mic themed "Why Art?" Truly a unique theme for an open mic and there were plenty of unique answers. Here's my last minute excuse for an answer. But it made for a nifty little performance...

(video to come soon)

In the meantime, check out some of the Penny's message boards:

169 Bar

2009-11-20T23:56:00.000-06:00

After my first performance in New York City, at Penny's Open Mic, I was ready to have my actual first gig, a jazz set at the 169 Bar. It's been a while since I've sat down with a group of musicians with whom I have never played, said alright here's the key and tempo, and then away we go. It was nerve-wracking. Especially because these were some fantastic musicians. Band leader and pianist Isamu McGregor plays some mean keys, while keeping the tight drummer and ridiculous chic bass player grooving in the right direction. All three were very chill, welcoming people.

My set with them was only three songs long. But that's all I needed to get my feet wet in NYC's jazz open mic world. We did the standard Honeysuckle Rose, a Kurt Elling chart called In the Winelight, and finished up with Michael Bublé's version of How Sweet it Is. A fitting ending cause it was pretty sweet to look out into the audience and see some good friends of mine, new and old alike, supporting me. Thanks guys and gals.

A Penny's Worth of Music

2009-11-17T03:00:00.006-06:00

There are two audio tracks here.

(1) Acoustic Open Mic - New York, New York

(2) Penny's Open Mic Podcast

Be sure to check out both. (Excuse the low quality on the podcast, had to make it fit on the site)

Thanks to Penny and all the open mic performers.

Almost Famous

2009-11-11T23:59:00.003-06:00

Today was full of brief encounters with fame. It all started at my place of employment, which is where most of my days have been beginning or ending lately. In all honesty, can't really complain about that. Especially on a day like today.

In the shift briefing, our main topic of discussion was the craziness that was to begin that evening. At 7pm, actors Jason Schwartzman and Meryl Streep joined with director Wes Anderson to plug their new film The Fantastic Mr. Fox (apparently children's books made movies are all the rage now, and they all happen to be my favorite children's books). Customers started lining up at 3pm to catch a glimpse of these super stars, watch a few exclusive clips of the film, and do a little Q&A as well. The questions were interesting as most were directed at Wes, and rightfully so. The man is an innovator, and this film is testament to that. Much of his discussion was about working with animation for the first time, specifically stop motion puppets. Meryl and Jason had there share of talk time as well. Meryl chatting in her cheery adorable-even-for-a-60-year-old kind of way (even when she stopped the interview to politely ask the photographers to stop their annoying picture clicking) and Jason was just like the characters he plays, quite and subdued, yet witty.

Playing security guard for that event made the shift go by all the quicker, and before I knew it, I was sitting in the days end meeting. All the employees gathered on the store's glass steps to talk out the day. In our ten minute meeting, three separate tourists walked by our large glass doors to shoot a couple shots of us stunning computer specialists huddled together in our new red holiday shirts.

I guess I can't blame them really. It seems it's harder to run across an employee from our store than it is a Harvard Graduate....statistically speaking.

As if running into three Hollywood icons and getting paparazzi'd wasn't enough, I had more cameras in my face after work. A friend invited me to a video shoot for a band that he promotes. The band is actually part of a "reality" show that will air on the CW this spring. So upon walking into the bar I had to sign a waiver, and succumb to the bright lights and cameras that swarmed the bar. The band only played three songs, one of them twice just so they could get all the right shots. Meanwhile, the "reality" of it all was that the most attractive women in the bar were escorted to the front in order to have a pleasant backdrop for the shows characters in the audience, who were quite attractive in their own right and actually really friendly people too.

Yes, I got a taste of Hollywood today but I'm glad it wasn't a full serving.

When You Say Wisconsin....

2009-11-05T21:17:00.005-06:00

Sometimes I just can't help but to miss that state between Minnesota and Lake Michigan. Such as this past Sunday. I had a fabulous Halloween Saturday night, but Sunday just about topped it with my first visit to Kettle of Fish, a cosy little bar with all the comforts of home.

When entering the bar, my friends and I quickly came to the realization that we probably weren't going to get a place to sit. However, upon venturing to the back of the bar we discovered the game watching den that was reminiscent of every basement in Wisconsin: couches lining the room, a fireplace, Packer gear hanging from wall to wall, a television that faced each corner of the room, and most everyone in the bar was enjoying a tasty Leinenkugel's Amber, the premier Wisconsin beer on tap.

For a good idea of what that Sunday entailed, smell the cheese.

As much fun as it is to enjoy the Packer game and return to my roots, there are other times I look back at Wisco and for as proud as I am to say I'm from there, I can still only say, wow...

Night of the Living Dead

2009-10-31T01:19:00.002-05:00

Tonight's the night. You still have some time incase you haven't been preparing for the Zombie Attack like I have. After all, I do live next to a cemetery. For a few quick ideas from some young bright minds, see the following video:

However for a more professional, well informed approach, you still have time to read The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks. He breaks down the zombie attack to the "z" (get it, like to the "t"?). I'll spare you a lot of details but give you his basic 10 Lessons for Surviving a Zombie Attack:

Organize before they rise!

They feel no fear, why should you?

Use your head: cut off theirs.

Blades don't need reloading.

Ideal protection = tight clothes, short hair.

Get up the staircase, then destroy it.

Get of the car, get onto the bike.

Keep moving, keep low, keep quiet, keep alert!

No place is safe, only safer.

The zombie may be gone, but the threat lives on.

I Helped a Pigeon

2009-10-30T21:17:00.000-05:00

Why did I do such a thing? Those things are flying rats. Disease ridden filth soaring above your head. I normally don't thrive on the misery of animals, but while traveling Europe my friends and I had a kitty going to pay the first person who attempted to kick a pigeon and actually made contact. Don't know who actually won that money, but I gave who ever it was a run for their money. Long story short, I hate those birds. Yet, I helped one survive.

I was on the subway platform, the J line, Myrtle-Wyckoff stop to be exact. This stop is above ground, straddling the road along the way. I was staring out over Manhattan when this bird got a bit too close to me. I heard him before I saw him. He was shaking his head vigorously. Good, I thought, this little p.o.s is having a seizure, one less rat in the sky.

Upon further investigation, however, I saw what the bird was trying to do. He was attempting to break apart a large piece of bagel that he couldn't quite get down his little gullet. He would shake, set the piece down, pick at it a bit, then grab hold again, and shake again with all his might. This continued for some time. One of his intense shakes sent his remanence of bagel my way. He took a couple steps toward me. I shifted my weight, and he took this as a sign of aggression and subsequently backed off.

I felt sorry for the guy. He was only trying to get by like everyone else in this over-crowded city. So I stomped on the bagel bite, grinding it into the ground, breaking it into pieces. I then took a few steps away from it, letting the bird know it was ok to advance toward the food. As he nibbled, he glanced up at me and did one of those cute animal head tilts (any dog owner knows what I'm taking about) as if to say thank you or perhaps, why the hell did you do that. I'm not quite sure, I don't speak pigeon.

As I thought about that bird on the remainder of my subway ride, I found myself comparing his life and my own. I'm like him in a lot of ways. Sometimes I need help from strangers just to get by. Sometimes I flap around with the rest of the flock not exactly knowing where to go. Sometimes my neck and eyes dart from side to side to ensure there is not any danger... mostly when I run. But lately that hasn't been a problem since I've been running in a cemetery.

Oh yea, to take this post in a completely different direction, I have been living in a new apartment for the month of October (which is right next too a cemetery). And I'll be here till next October. That's right, I walked the plank. This is no longer a little experiment to see if the city suits me. I'm here... well for a year at least. But I'm going to give it my all in this year. See what I can make of myself here. Hopefully, I'm like the pigeon in some ways, finding opportunity where least expected, but I also hope that I'm not like him as well. I hope to keep my feathers relatively clean and not have to get my food after it's been stomped on by a stranger.

Our Precious Town: A Play Review

2009-10-27T23:05:00.002-05:00

Scroll down the page, and you'll see a post in which I relayed a story to you. Yes relayed, not copied. It's a story about living in the present, not taking for granted the life we live everyday, not letting this gift we've been given slip away before it's too late. So too is the message of Thornton Wilder's Pulitzer Prize winning drama Our Town.

Not-so-ironically, I was given tickets to this show by the same man who shared the story Precious Present with me. I had seen the play before, back in high school, but at the time I thought the show was boring and drawn out. After all, I was young and the acting in the show was... well, high school. So before I went to see the show this evening, I read the play.

In reading the story, I got the gist. The first two acts are pretty basic: a simple town, with simple people, living simple lives that include the usual dramas that accompany most people's lives. A narrator, or stage manager as he is referred to by Wilder, guides the reader through the story: the first act introducing the town and the people in it, followed by the second act's journey of love. The third act is the bombshell. The reader doesn't see it coming. It's not really a plot twist or something like that, it's more of a revelation. A heart-wrenching revelation.

I don't want to give it away, but give it a read. Better yet, see the play.

Best play I have ever seen. Period. Even though there was a period at the end of that sentence, I feel it necessary to once again write the word Period for emphasis. If given the opportunity, see the play at the Borrow Street Theatre in New York City. If you're really lucky, you'll see it with the incredible cast I saw it with. Just for my own purposes, I'll list the prominent characters here... incase I lose my playbill.

Stage Manager...................................................Jason Butler Harner

Mrs. Gibbs..........................................................................Lori Myers

Mrs. Webb.........................................................................Kati Brazda

Doc Gibbs.................................................................. Armand Schultz

Joe Crowell, Jr. .........................................................Jason Yachanin

Howie Newsome............................................................Adam Hinkle

George Gibbs.......................................................James McMenamin

Rebecca Gibbs................................................................Jacey Powers

Emily Webb..................................................................Jennifer Grace

Simon Stimson..............................................................Jeremy Beiler

Mr. Webb.............................................................................Ken Marks

The show has minimal scenery, a couple tables at best. The show takes place in the early 1900s, yet no period costuming is used. A lot of the show is placed on the imagination of the audience, but the acting allows it to be so. This play is not about scenery or razzle-dazzle. It's about people, it's about life... and how we need to live in it while we are living it.

Not Much of a Challenge

2009-10-26T01:48:00.001-05:00

I designed a little game for your time-wasting pleasure. Copy and paste the following code into the game to play my designed level. 23de53c21141ed1b5824341a91674c00

"I hate to disturb your ride but..."

2009-10-26T00:29:00.008-05:00

No doubt if you've been on an NYC subway ride, you have heard one of these suspiciously similar speeches by a supposedly unfortunate soul. Goes something like this:

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. I hate to interrupt your ride this evening but I'll just take a moment of your time. I am a (vet, homeless person, etc.) trying to get by living on the streets. I don't drink, do drugs, or steal. I am simply asking for your help with any spare change or extra dollars you may have on your person. Have a good night and God Bless."

As soon as the train is in motion the speech starts. More often than not, their sob stories aren't that obtrusive, lasting a minute tops. Majority of the time, I'll listen, staring at my book or iPod acting like I am immersed in whatever I am doing. But I'm listening. Afterward the individual will walk around with a hat or bag, hold it out in front of each person in the car, and 95% of the people won't give anything, including me.

Giving money to panhandlers and beggars is always a touchy subject. I've gotten in heated debates with friends over the topic. The one, more selfish, view being, "It's my money, they've made their mistakes, they are just going to buy more booze, drugs with it." The other mentality being, "these people haven't had the opportunities I've had, I don't know what it's like to have those hardships, help your fellow man." Tough decision really. But I think I've made up my mind.

I don't do it. Especially when they all these subway stories sound like the same cookie cutter speech. Like there is a meeting somewhere they all attend to learn the best ways to manipulate people into giving them money.

However tonight on my way home I heard a speech on the train that had me digging to my bag's bottom to find some change. I couldn't even see the man during his speech as my chair was facing the other direction. But there was an urgency in his voice, a true-sounding cry for help. He said he had been kicked out of his home by his family for being HIV positive. Now he was on the train trying to get money for him and his dog. Maybe it was the dog part that got to me, but I wanted to give him some change. If not for his situation, for the gifted acting and delivery of his speech. In my opinion, worth twenty-five cents.

For more on the topic, check some articles:

NY Times

Tripcrazed.com

Legality

Working at a Fruit Company

2009-10-03T23:32:00.005-05:00

Today I started working at this fruit company.

I'm the one in the middle.... except with male parts, and I'm not as good at arithmetic.

Today I Heard a Story

2009-09-20T16:20:00.015-05:00

It's by Spencer Johnson, M.D.

The Precious Present

Once there was a boy who listened to an old man. And, thus, began to learn about The Precious Present. "It is a present because it is a gift," the contented man explained. "And it is precious because anyone who receives such a present is happy forever."

"Wow!" the little boy exclaimed. "I hope someone gives me The Precious Present. Maybe I'll get it for Christmas." The boy ran off to play. And the old man smiled. He liked to watch the little boy play. He saw the smile on the youngster's face and heard him laughing as he swung from a nearby tree. The boy was happy. And it was a joy to see.

The old man also liked to watch the boy work. He even rose early on Saturday mornings to watch the little laborer mow the lawn across the street. The boy actually whistled while he worked. The little child was happy no matter what he was doing. It was, indeed, a joy to behold.

When he thought about what the old man had said, the boy thought he understood. He knew about presents. Like the bicycle he got for his birthday and the gifts he found under the tree on Christmas morning. But as the boy thought more about it, he knew. The joy of toys never lasts forever. The boy began to feel uneasy. "What then," he wondered, "is The Precious Present? What could possibly make me happy forever?" He found it difficult to even imagine the answer.

And so he returned to ask the old man. "Is The Present a magical ring? One that I might put on my finger and make all my wishes come true?" He was told, "No."

The Precious Present has nothing to do with wishing.

As the boy grew older he continued to wonder. He went to the old man. "Is The Precious Present a flying carpet?" he inquired. "One that I could get on and go any place that I liked?" The man quietly replied, "No."

When you have The Precious Present you will be perfectly content to be where you are.

The boy was becoming a young man now, and felt a bit foolish for asking. But he was uncomfortable. He began to see that he was not achieving what he wanted. "Is The Precious Present," he slowly ventured, "a sunken treasure? Perhaps rare gold coins buried by pirates long ago?" The old man told him, "No young man. It is not."

The richness is rare, indeed, but...the wealth of the present comes only from itself.

The young man thought for a moment. Then he became annoyed. "You told me," the young man said, "that anyone who receives such a present would be happy forever. I never got such a gift as a child." The old man responded, "I'm afraid you don't understand."

You already know what The Precious Present is. You already know where to find it. And you already know how it can make you happy. You knew it best when you were a small child. You have simply forgotten.

The young man went away to think. But as time passed, he became frustrated and finally angry. He eventually confronted the old man. "If you want me to be happy," the young man shouted, "why don't you just tell me what The Precious Present is?"

"And where to find it?" the old man volleyed. "Yes, exactly," the young man demanded. I would like to the old man began. "But I do not have such power. No one does." The old man continued, "Only you have the power to make yourself happy. Only you."

The precious present is not something that someone gives you. It is a gift that you give yourself.

The young man was confused, but determined. He resolved to find The Precious Present himself. And so, he packed his bags. He left where he was. And went elsewhere. To look for The Precious Present.

After many frustrating years, the man grew tired of looking for The Precious Present. He had read all the latest books. And he had looked in The Wall Street Journal. He had looked in the mirror. And into the faces of other people. He had wanted so much to find The Precious Present. He had gone to extraordinary lengths. He had looked for it at the tops of mountains and in cold dark caves. He had searched for it in dense, humid jungles. And underneath the seas.

But it was all to no avail. His stressful search had exhausted him. He even became ill occasionally. But he did not know why. The man returned wearily to the old man's side. The old man was happy to see him. They often laughed out loud together. The young man liked to be with the old man. He felt happy in his presence. He guessed that this was because the old man felt happy with himself.

It wasn't that the old man's life was so trouble-free. He didn't appear to have a lot of money. He seemed to be alone most of the time. In fact, there was no apparent reason why he was so much happier and healthier than most people. But happy he was. And so were those who spent time with him. "Why does it feel so good to be with him?" the young man wondered. "Why?" He left wondering.

After many years, the once-young man returned to inquire further. He was now very unhappy and often ill. He needed to talk with the old man. But the old man had grown very, very old. And, all too soon, he spoke no more. The wise voice could no longer be heard. The man was alone.

At first, he was saddened by the loss of his old friend. And then he became frightened. Very frightened. He was afraid that he would never learn how to be happy. Until, he finally accepted what had always been true. He was the only one who could find his own happiness. The unhappy man recalled what the happy old man told him so many years ago. But as hard as he tried he could not figure it out. He tried to understand what he had heard.

The present has nothing to do with wishing...
When you have the present you will be perfectly content to be where you are...
The richness of the present comes from its own source...
The present is not something that someone gives to you...
It is something you give to yourself...

The unhappy man was now tired of looking for The Precious Present. He had grown so tired of trying, that he simply stopped trying.

And then, it happened! He didn't know why it happened, when it happened. It just...happened! He realized that The Precious Present was just that: THE PRESENT. Not the past; and not the future but THE PRECIOUS PRESENT

In an instant the man was happy. He realized that he was in The Precious Present. He raised both hands triumphantly into the cool, fresh air. He was joyous...for one moment....

But then, just as quickly as he had discovered it, he let the joy of the present moment evaporate. He slowly lowered his hands, touched his forehead, and frowned. The man was unhappy-again. "Why,"he asked himself, "didn't I see the obvious long ago? Why have I missed so many precious moments? Why has it taken me so long to live in the present?"

As the man remembered his fruitless travels around the world in his search for The Precious Present, he knew how much happiness he had lost. He had not experienced what each special time and place had to offer. He had missed a great deal. And he felt sad. The man continued to berate himself. And then he saw what he was doing. He observed that he was trapped by his guilt about his past.

When he became aware of his unhappiness and of his being in the past, he returned to the present moment. And he was happy.

But then the man began to worry about the future. "Will I," he asked, "be able to know the joy of living in The Precious Present tomorrow?" Then he saw he was living in the future and laughed - at himself. He listened to what he now knew. And he heard the wisdom of his own voice.

It is wise for me to think about the past and to learn from my past. But it is not wise for me to be in the past, for that is how I lose myself.

It is also wise to think about the future and to prepare for my future. But it is not wise for me to be in the future, for that, too, is how I lose myself.

And when I lose myself, I lose what is most precious to me.

It was so simple. And now he saw it. The present nourished him.

But the man knew it was not going to be easy. Learning to be in the present was a process he was going to have to do over and over... again and again... until it became a part of him. Now he knew why he had enjoyed being with the old man. The old man was totally in the present when he was with the younger man. The old man was not thinking about something else pr wishing he was somewhere else. He was fully in the present. And it felt good to be with such a person. The younger man smiled at himself, the way the old man used to smile. He knew.

I can choose to be happy now, or I can try to be happy when... or if...

The man choose NOW! And now the man was happy. He felt at peace with himself. He agreed to savor each moment of his life...the apparently good and the apparently bad... Even if he didn't understand. For the first time in his life, it didn't matter. He accepted each of his precious moments on this planet as a gift.

I know that some people choose to receive The Precious Present when they are young. Others in middle age. And some when they are very old. Some people sadly never do. I can choose to receive The Precious Present whenever I want.

As the man sat thinking, he felt fortunate. He was who he was where he was. And now he knew! He would always be who he was where he was. He listened again to his thoughts.

The present is what is. It is valuable. Even if I do not know why. It is already just the way it is supposed to be. When I see the present, accept the present, and experience the present. I am well, and I am happy.
Pain is simply the difference between what is and what I want it to be. When I feel guilty over my imperfect past, or I am anxious over my unknown future, I do not live in the present. I experience pain. I make myself ill. And I am unhappy.
My past was the present. And my future will be the present. The present moment is the only reality I ever experience.

As long as I continue to stay in the present, I am happy forever: Because forever is always the present. The present is simply who I am, just the way I am...right now. And it is precious.
I am precious.
I am the precious present.

It was as though he could hear the old man talking. And then he smiled. And his smile widened. And he laughed. He felt a great joy. He knew he was listening, not to the old man... but to himself! It felt good for him to be with himself - just the way he was. He felt he knew enough. He felt he had enough. He felt he was enough. Now. He has finally found The Precious Present. And he was completely happy.

Several decades later, the man had grown into a happy, prosperous, and healthy old man. One day a little girl came by to talk to him. She liked to listen to "the old man," as she called him. It was fun to be with him. There was something special about him. But she didn't know what it was.

One day the little girl began to really listen to the old man. Somehow she sensed something important in his calm voice. He seemed very happy. The little girl couldn't understand why. "How could someone so old," she wondered, "be so happy?" She asked and the old man told her why.

Then all of a sudden, the little girl jumped up and squealed with delight! As the girl ran off to play, the old man smiled. For he heard what she had said..."Wow!" she exclaimed. "I hope someday someone gives me The Precious Present."

Meeting Captain Reynolds

2009-09-18T21:35:00.012-05:00

Three weeks ago I visited the Apple store in Soho for a Meet the Filmmaker event with Mike Judge. Today I was thoroughly entertained at a similar Meet the Actor spectacular featuring the ever witty Nathan Fillion.

He was there to plug the second season of Castle, which starts this upcoming Monday on ABC. Honestly, I've never seen it. But after the clips I saw today, perhaps it'd be worth giving this season a try.

A good majority of the audience members were die-hard fans and knew the whole gamut of Fillion's career from his small role on the sitcom Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place to the internet cult classic Dr. Horrible's Sing-a-long Blog.

I, however, knew Nathan from only one role. Perhaps the best and shortest lived sci-fi of all time Firefly.

Fox made a mistake by canceling this one of a kind show before it could finish a full season back in 2002. It's a show about a ship named Serenity, a firefly class transport. Malcom Reynolds (Nathan Fillion) captains the ship and it's crew of unlikely characters as it drifts along the outskirts of the galaxy taking on whatever jobs come their way, often of the illegal sort.

Serenity travels from planet to planet finding these assignments. However, oddly enough, each planet looks like an old western town with a few futuristic mechanisms and weapons thrown in. But that's one of the most unique parts of the show. It's a brilliant mix between a Sci-Fi and Western with a sarcastic bite of humor that I'm sure Fillion himself is responsible for from time to time.

Besides the western-like themes throughout the show, there are other aspects that make this series shine brightly in the galaxy of television programs. The show alludes to the fact, though never addresses it directly, that China became a huge world power before Earth was all but abandoned. This is evident in many of the characters' clothing as well as their choice Chinese phrases, often muttered as obscenities. Also, each episode is carefully crafted with unique plot lines and anything but average story telling. And even though it's a sci-fi taking place in a galaxy that may or may not be far, far away, the show feels human. That's a credit to the characters.

Firefly, even its short lived fourteen episode season, has some of the best character development I have seen in a series. Beside Capt. Reynolds is his first mate, and fellow solider in the "great war," Zoe, the warrior woman of the ship. She's married to the pilot, Wash, a timid sort, yet he still holds his own with the crew. Kaylee, the engine mechanic, is the cute little country girl who knows her way around every piece of machinery on the ship. Jane is an uneducated warrior type used for the dirty work. On top of these, there's a shepherd (a preacher), a companion (high class prostitute), and a brother and sister pair of fugitives that join the crew as well. The ship is aptly named, as all of these characters struggle together and in their own unique ways to find serenity.

Brilliantly crafted show. But don't take my word for it....

But sadly enough, Nathan didn't even get to talk about Firefly till the very last question of the Q & A. "Nathan, first off, can't wait for this next season of Castle. However, I find is interesting that in this hour neither Firefly or Serenity (the movie made after the show was canceled) has been mentioned," asked the final audience member to speak. At this point, the moderator handed Nathan a $1 bill, because Nathan knew this Q & A couldn't go all night without someone asking about Firefly.

Wow, I didn't expect this blog to turn into a plug for this show. But as I was writing this post, I stopped for a while to watch an episode so it's greatness is fresh in my mind. As for the interview with Nathan Fillion: in summary, I was pleased all around. Have you ever seen an interview with an actor on Conan or Letterman and were disappointed because the character they play is more interesting than the actor in real life? Well, this was not Fillion. Hilarious and witty the entire time. Worthy of watching this Monday in Castle.

Firsts and Lasts

2009-09-11T01:52:00.008-05:00

I'm learning. Today I learned more lessons than I think one day should allow. Yet, in a bizarre, glass-half-full kinda way, it was a fantastic day.

Today began in Port Chester, approximately forty miles north of the city. That's where Jacob's studio is. I made my way there last night, crashed, and went right to work this morning. Following my day of office organizing, I decided it was time to get my bike into the city. It had been chilling in Port Chester since the summer let out. So I biked to the train station and wheeled my eco-friendly mode of transportation onto the train.

I was sitting peacefully next to my bike when the conductor came by. "And you have your bike permit as well correct?" he asked as he punched my ticket. I gave a nervous giggle as if to say 'Haha, nice one.' But he continued to stare at me. "Wait, are you serious?" I said. "Yes, you need a permit to transport a bicycle on any public transit." I explained that I was a newbie to New York and this was my first time attempting to get a bike into the city. This conductor was the kind of person I can get along with in the world. The kind that doesn't try to make trouble for people. "Well, when you get to Grand Central make sure you get yourself one if you want to take it on the subways." He was a live and let live individual.

Unfortunately his fellow conductor wasn't such a person. A few minutes after he continued down the car, another conductor came by. This one was on a "I-have-little-power-in-my-life-so-what-little-power-I-do-have-I-am-going-to-exercise-while-I-can" power trip. I don't like these kind of people. But I tolerate them and act as civil as I can with them.

"Who's bike is this? It's blocking the aisle," he said (even though it was well out of the way). I told him it was mine. "Where's your bike permit?" he said hastily. I explained that I just talked to the other conductor about this, it's my first time, yadda yadda. "Well, get one, it's illegal to travel without one." He then stormed off down the subway car. His ego boosted for the day because he got to yell at someone.

That was the first and last time I will take a bike on the Metro North Rail.

Upon arriving at Grand Central, I decided not to go to the information desk and get a permit. I didn't feel like paying for one, even though I didn't know and still don't know the cost. However, it's the whole principle. Why should I pay extra? Some people's luggage on that train took up more room than my bike. I figured I'd try my luck and bike from Grand Central to Bushwick.

That's the route. Only 7.4 miles. It most certainly did not feel like 7.4 miles, more like 20. Wasn't that bad till I got to the Williamsburg Bridge. I never thought that incline was going to end. While I'm pedaling as hard as my jean-constricted pants will let me, I'm getting passed by the intense road bikers who probably ride that journey twice daily. Now that I think of it, I was so hellbent on getting across that bridge that I didn't even stop to enjoy the view from it's peak. Once I got to that peak though, it was an easy coast down, so easy that it was hard to keep control.

I made it over in one piece and now had to make my way through what I thought was going to be an easy journey through Williamsburg to Bushwick. Take a look at the map. It's not that hard. Sadly, it is that hard when you're a moron and take a few wrong turns. Then before you know it you're getting pulled over by a van full of NY Police Officers.

My first time biking in the city and I'm getting nailed by the NYPD. Apparently, you are not allowed to ride a bike on any city sidewalks. I had an inkling that was the case, since no one else was riding a bike on the sidewalk, but I figured it was more of a strong suggestion. Nope, it's a law.

An officer gets out of the passenger door and asks for my ID. He barely takes a look at it and then passes it to the other 5 cops sitting in the back of this large van. I suspect they were all in training. Each took a look at my driver's license, discussing it amongst themselves. Presumably a training on how to identify fakes. As they all perused my picture, I again played the newbie to NYC explaining this is my first time riding a bike in the city.

It seemed such a minor infraction that it wasn't even worth showing the rookies how to fill out one of the tickets. The last guy to look at my license asked, "Green Bay huh? You a Packer's fan?" "I kinda have to be,"I replied as the instructor cop handed me back my ID telling me they'd let me off with a warning this time.

That was the first and (hopefully) last encounter I'll have with the NYPD.

I got home just in time to shovel down some food before I met a friend for a drink. We guzzled that drink and made our way to the Williamsburg, where we stopped for another drink at a wonderful establishment that serves all there beverages in styrofoam cups. Which makes it extremely convenient for carrying alcohol out on the street. It just so happen that a few representative for a rum called Sailor Jerry. Had quite a few rum & cokes against my better judgement. After all, how great can that rum be. The guy is a sailor. Many ranks below Captain Morgan and Admiral Nelson.

That was the first and last time I will drink Sailor Jerry...that is, unless it's free again.

We were good and toasty for a DJ set with Calvin Harris at the Williamsburg Music Hall. Long story short, great show, great dancing. However today, my body is sore in ways previously not thought imaginable. My legs and back kill from both an intense NY bike ride and a night of intense dancing. Oh and chalk my neck up for dance related soreness too. And my ears are still ringing.

That was the first and last time I bike across NY before I go to an all night dance concert.

And that'll be the last time I go to a concert without ear plugs. I need my musicianly trained ears to last me a while.

Lessons well learned I guessed.

Baby Face

2009-09-09T11:06:00.006-05:00

Look at this picture. Happy Shawn. All scruffy, thick mutton chops gracefully framing the patchy stubble of my cheeks and chin. Granted, I'm no beauty queen pretty boy, but I enjoy this look I've got going for me.... correction, had going for me.

Thanks to my new job, I look like a prepubescent boy. Unhappy Shawn.

I thought high school would be the last time I'd be asked/told to be clean shaven, but alas it's back haunt me. The first thing my now boss told me in the interview last week was, "How attached are you to these (points to the sides of his face)? Cause we shouldn't continue this interview if you can't part with them."

I debated walking out right there. Then I thought about the fairly large rent check I just wrote out and figured I can part with them for a while. It'll grow back.... right?

Where I Go, Thus Far

2009-09-07T11:06:00.003-05:00

As a continuation of my last post, here's a little more detail for those of you who may not be that familiar with NYC. I know I wasn't before I got here.
I also figured it'd be convenient for stalkers, murderers, and rapists if I left them a detailed map of where I'd be at around town.

I'm Gonna Make a Brand New Start of It

2009-09-06T22:04:00.011-05:00

...Or at least attempt to. Then again, I don't know about a brand new start. I am, after all, going to pursue the same career fields I've been into. So I guess you could say, I'm gonna make a solid attempt at making a go at what I already do... but that doesn't quite flow lyrically like Frank would want it to. Whatever. It makes for a good title for this post, ok?

I've been living in Brooklyn for a week. A decent week at that. Settled in a nice apartment in the Bushwick neighborhood. Got job to pay the bills at a swanky literary club...Actually, Now that I think of it, I'm going to outline the week below. Not so much for you, the reader, but for myself. It's been a long week. I should figure out what I did with myself.

Sunday 8/30 Sleeping Through Flights
After a long night at Alpine Valley for a Jimmy Buffet concert the night before, I awoke at 6am to catch a 7:40 flight from Milwaukee. Got into White Plains around 3pm and chilled at Jacobs for the night.

Monday 8/31 Waiting to Move In
Took the North Metro Rail into the city and subsequently to my apartment. The previous tenant staying in my room wasn't totally moved out. Spent most of my day helping him move out and moving myself in.

Tuesday 9/1 Audition and Apple
Today I had my second audition here in the city, the first having taken place earlier this summer. This particular audition was for PGT Entertainment. Will anything come of it? Meh, we'll see. But the experience is necessary. Afterward, I spent sometime at the Apple store sitting in on their free lectures.

Wednesday 9/2 A Filmmaker and a Further Moving
Chilled at the apartment got a little more settled. Later that night, went back to Apple store for a Q&A session with animator/writer/director Mike Judge. Even though the interviewer/moderator was an idiotic bimbo who knew nothing about Mike or his work, it was still a sweet event to enjoy.

Afterward, I took a train back up to White Plains. Later that night, once his kids were asleep, Jacob and I drove the rest of the crap I had sitting at his house over to my apartment. Before getting to the apartment though, we had to stop at Jacob's favorite pizza place in the city, Joes.

Thursday 9/3 Got a Job, Discovered a Park, Found a Music Venue
I intended on sleeping in this morning, however, I was awoken by an old high school friend who now lives in the city. We grabbed a coffee before I went to my interview at The Lotos Club. It went well and I start this Wednesday. We'll see how that goes. After the interview, I made my way to Crown Heights (which borders Prospect Park) to meet up with another friend from WI who moved to the city. We took a good long walk through the park and slipped a few Coronas.

That night I had my first encounter with Williamsburg, which I was told is "where it's at." It is. I went to the Music Hall of Williamsburg to see Elizabeth and the Catapult. Basically, a much less mainstream Regina Spektor.

Friday 9/4 Flatbush and Fish & Chips

Pretty chill day. That night caught up with yet another friend. This one from UWSP. We grabbed dinner. She showed me around Flatbush, another fantastic upcoming neighborhood of Brooklyn. It's actually a bit on the British-side. Quite lovely. We then got lost as she attempted to drive me home, seeing as how there are no trains that run north and south in Brooklyn. It's messed up.

Saturday 9/5 Where Tight Cuffs Meet Jew Curls

Went back to the Prospect Park area. Took a good walk. Listened to some good music as I walked. Found a fantastic farmers market at the north end of the park, right by the Brooklyn Library. After my time there, I went back over to Williamsburg to gallivant around Bedford street. The sidewalks had tables sporadically set up to sell books, trinkets, jewelry, you name it.

While taking a look at this tables, I discovered how cool people can be in NYC. I was looking at some jewelry, specifically a leather necklace with a large charm on it. I asked the little old woman the price. $5 she replied. I was really only interested in the leather and told her such. She replied, "Oh, I can just give you that for free." I told her, "here's a dollar at least, take something." With a sharp turn of her head she yipped, "no." I thanked her again and off I went.

My other favorite place I shopped was a neighborhood sale in which all proceeds went to charity. Most everything was kinda junky, but much is was also right up my alley. My purchases include a couple cloth-knit ties, the coolest playset ever, and some bitch'n new shades.

I decided to walk back from Williamsburg to Bushwick as they border each other, and I figured I should see what kind of a walk it is. Little did I know I was about to discover how neighborhoods can drastically change by just a single turn.

As I mentioned, Williamsburg, very "where it's at." The artsy crowd that inhabits the area are total hipsters (see picture at left). Some have their issues with these ankle-hugging jean wearing bunch, but I dig 'em, these neo-hippies who carry the spirit of the 60's and the wardrobe of the 80's. That's Williamsburg, at least the nor then part of it.

I began my walk southeastish to get back to Bushwick. I continued straight down Bedford St. I don't know exactly what block it took place, but suddenly I was the only person with a t-shirt on. Everyone else was hardcore Jewish and gussied up for the Sabbath. I felt out of place, but also very relaxed. I stopped one of the men with the big fur hats on. "Can I ask you a few questions about Judaism?" I said respectful. "Umm depends what the question is. I only have until the next intersection." He was more than happy to enlighten a clueless non-Jew. Their whole way of life fascinates me.

I finally made it back to my apartment, legs aching from the day. After resting them and watching Entourage for an hour, I got a message from yet another friend from good 'ol Stevens Point. I grabbed a few drinks in Manhattan with a few Pointer actors and actresses whom I knew from their roles in UWSP productions.

Which bring me to today, which was pretty lame. Did some job searching online, prepared some job materials, and watched another season of Entourage. Went for a run and found a cheap gym a few blocks away. And now, wrote this post.

A pretty solid first week.

Little Instructions

2009-08-27T16:32:00.007-05:00

Back in the day, when I was a wee lad, I used those little tear-away-by-the-day calendars. I was also quite a pack-rat. Which is why I recently found two consecutive years of these tear-away days in my closet.

One such year was a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Calendar year.... I'm glad I saved those. The following year I was given a Life's Little Instruction Calendar (Volume XI in case you're wondering), and I'm even more pleased that I saved these. Here are gems of instructions. Take 'em or leave 'em.

On Relationships
Really go out of your way to see to it that anyone invited to your home has a wonderful time --- Ask friends who they'd choose to play themselves if a movie were made of their life --- Write a personal note in every book you give --- Remember, even the most sincere apology can't erase harsh words said in haste or anger --- Take a walk in the woods with someone you love when it's snowing --- Unless you're at the beach, remove your sunglasses when talking to someone --- When conversing with others, remember you expose not just what you know, but who you are --- Contentment is found in relationships, not in places or accomplishments

On Yourself
Write twenty poems and have them bound in leather --- Buy an expensive bottle of wine and compare it with a cheap one; you might be surprised by which you like best --- Never underestimate your abilities. You are capable of things undreamed of --- What qualities do you most like in your friends? Acquire them. Practice them. Make them your own. --- Keep your mind curious, your heart pure, and your enthusiasm twelve inches taller than you are --- Your potential is determined by your dreams; your value is determined by your actions --- Wave at couples sitting on front porches --- Your mind is the muscle that most needs exercising --- Carry authority and confidence in your posture and voice --- Maintain a touch of mystery

On Growing Old
On your birthday, try something you'd do if your age were your shoe size --- Compliment all women with beautiful gray hair --- Don't die muttering "if only..." --- Leave precious memories alone and undisturbed; trying to relive them often results in disappointment --- Go back to the house where you grew up and ask the owner if you could just look around.

On Random Betterness
Support your local diner --- Winning is simple, take just one more step when all the others have quit --- Don't waste time trying to reason with a dog --- Don't hurry past beauty --- Be different. Be fair. Be first --- Carry authority and confidence in your posture and voice --- Don't attend every argument you're invited to --- Life is hard; don't get soft --- Be willing to attend to the small details that make the difference between "done" and "well done" --- To discover good, reliable people, undertake a difficult task with a group --- Don't weaken the power of future compliments by telling someone (especially children) he or she is doing a good job when they're not --- Be the reason someone smiles today

Currently Carrying the Most Meaning for Shawn (yes I enjoy referring to myself in the third person)
Having a good idea is like holding a quart of ice cream on a hot summer day; you've got to do something with it right away or all is lost --- The happiest you'll ever be is when you're working hard for something you really care about --- For somethings to make sense, you have to live a long time --- Learn to accept praise without suggesting you don't deserve it

A Musical Review: Altar Boyz

2009-08-20T20:00:00.003-05:00

Since first arriving in New York, I’ve heard raving reviews about this off-Broadway show called Altar Boyz. This post is another such raving review.

But first a definition is in order, off-Broadway. I myself had a vague understanding of the word, but as I have learned, it has a concrete, simple definition. An off-Broadway show is a one in which the theatre holds less than 500 people. That’s it. Doesn’t mean the quality of the actors, sound, lights set, or any aspect of the show is anything less than fantastic. Because these shows are often in small venues, it requires the show to do a little less with sets and such, but the show itself can be just as entertaining as those flashy big staged shows.

Off-Broadway does, however, mean more risks can be taken. More risqué subject matter can be addressed. More absurd plots can be explored. Such as a group of four Catholic school boys, and a Jewish one, forming a Christian boy band, creating a show that is a completely mockery of Catholicism, Christian Rock musicians, and boy-bands. This is Altar Boys. In my humble opinion, it’s absolute genius.

As an audience member at Altar Boys, you are actually an audience member at the boy band’s final performance of their cross-country tour. Their goal is to spread the good word of God through their hip thrusting gyrations and tight vocal harmonies. At certain points throughout the show, they use their “Soul Searcher 5000” to scan the audience and see just how many souls they’ve converted.

They nail every hilarious boy band member persona: the ever-diligent leader, the obvious yet closeted gay, the Spanish conquistador of women, the recovering muscular alcoholic, and of course, the Jew. Each has a quite a back-story which is uniquely woven into the show.

With just a very talented four piece band on stage and the five vocalist/dancer, this show makes the off-Broadway community proud.

Old McDonald Wrote Some Music

2009-08-10T13:32:00.007-05:00

It was my first day in Playland park. I was sporting a gondolier's hat, a red and white, vertically striped vest, black shorts, and white shoes. My job was to entertain. Walk up to people sitting on a park bench and play them a song. This was my job, six times a day for fifteen maybe twenty minutes at a time. This was my job.

By the end of day one it was already a tiresome burden. I had done five of my "strolls" and had one more to do. "I should just skip it," I thought, "who'd know?" But it was my first day. I'll just get it over with.

Across from the carousel of fast horses, right next to the cotton candy stand, was a man holding his daughter. Simple enough, walk up to them, play You are my Sunshine or some other crap and be done.

"Hey guys! Having fun in the park today?!? Care to hear a song?" I said as I forced out a smile.

"We'd love to sing a song!" replied the man, "How about Old McDonald?"

We began singing and to my surprise the man started throwing in some harmonies. Most amusement park patron don't do that. Once we got through a verse and a chorus I began to dish out the usual park employee over-excited mindless chatter.

"Nice harmonies you threw in there!"

"Well, I'm a musician, a composer actually."

With that phrase the entertainer-patron facade was broken, and I really began talking to this guy. Turns out he's a freelance composer in the area, is just beginning a huge project for NBC, and is in need of an apprentice. We exchanged contact info and two nights later I was in the car, listening to his CD he gave me, and getting lost on my way to his place in Yonkers.

I had no clue what to expect. Being mugged, raped, find out the guy murders Dalmatian puppies, or sells coke and only writes music on acid flashbacks... all were possibilities. Then again, finding a professional grade studio in some guy's basement and a stellar musician who writes great stuff and is quite successful was a possibility as well.

What I found was Jacob.

We've been working together ever since that first meeting. Three, four, sometimes five nights a week we meet and work on scoring this NBC pilot. Just last night we met with the director of the project on which we are nearing completion. He seems pleased. I've even had the opportunity to write some of the music myself, instead of just taking a back seat ride. I may even get some on-air credit for it. We'll see.

Blessings in disguise are interesting. Especially when you have to peal off many layers of the mask. And even then, the blessing staring back at you may be in the form of a short-haired Jewish guy from Port Chester. Scary.

A Musical Review: 9 to 5

2009-08-08T20:41:00.008-05:00

A rainy Saturday is a blessing when you are in the amusement park entertainment business. We had one such glorious day on Saturday June 20th, and time away from the park cannot be wasted when you work six days a week. That’s why a group of us took the train into the city to see 9 to 5.

The show is written by Dolly Parton, which made me skeptical. I’m not the biggest country fan. However, I would barely classify this show’s music as country. It was musical theatre with a country flare and a huge flame of hilariousness.

Main character Violet Newstead, played by Allison Janney (may remember her from Juno, Harispray, American Beauty etc.), brings out her fair share of dry, sarcastic humor throughout the show. While Janney’s singing voice isn’t quite Broadway quality, it fits her part, monotone and strong. Perfect for the persona of a widowed woman in a man’s business world. Her acting, on the other hand, makses up for any shortcomings she may have.

The other main supporting actresses, Stephanie J. Block and Megan Hilty, were both part of the original Broadway cast of Wicked, and their unmatched acting and singing shown brightly. Hilty plays the seemingly bimbo-like secretary. As the show develops, so does her character, displaying a misunderstood office beauty. Block plays character Judy Bernly, a timid woman entering the business world after being left by her husband.

All three meet up and inadvertently take the CEO of their company hostage, resulting in no-so-cliché comedy, and a better work environment for everyone.

For a show that takes place mostly in what would seem to be a dull office setting, the sets were anything but mundane. Plus, the intense amount of dance and tight choreographed movement on stage is the same caliber as any other dance intensive show like West Side Story or Footloose.

Today was all around a surprising day. Didn’t expect to have off work, and didn’t expect to be so highly enjoying Dolly Parton’s country twang turned Broadway musical.

Intoxicating Jazz

2009-08-07T23:19:00.007-05:00

I've come to truly enjoy Fridays at Playland. Not because it's the end of the week,(sadly, I still have two days till my day off). But because I get a chance to chill on the boardwalk along the Long Island Sound, enjoy the sun set with a bottle of wine, watch some fireworks, and listen to the elderly men of the Milt Gerver Big Band play the live jazz that I long to hear.

Back in Stevens Point, WI, some of my favorite Friday nights we spent listening to the River Cities Jazz Band as they entertained a mixed crowd of older folks, some 40 year-olds, and a hand full of college-aged jazz enthusiasts. The crowd on Playland's boardwalk, however, has mostly blue hairs and wrinkly skin. But you'd never be able to tell that by the movement on the dance floor. They are all shake'n like it was their first sock-hop. I figured this out not only by seeing, but experiencing it as well.

A couple Fridays ago, my roommate Pip and I were listening to the fantastic band when a couple of ladies next to us were getting ready to leave. "Leaving so soon?" we enquired. "Well, we have no one to dance with!" they replied. If that wasn't an invitation to dance, I don't know what is. We took these young-at-heart ladies for a slow dance. I danced with Betty. The song was just about over. I could see some tears swelling up her eyes before she said, "We lost our dance partners a few years ago." I almost melted as we finished our dance in silence because I didn't know what to say.

After that dance, our lovely ladies left. But I was quite pleased we had that dance. Put things in perspective.

A few of us cast members stayed till the night's end. As the band played their closer "New York, New York," our dance captain showed up the entire crowd with her high kicks and Rockette style moves. The vocalist and band leader came up to her after the show and exclaimed, "You're going to Hollywood baby, no doubt about it," in his classic Brooklyn accent.

Indeed, I've come to love these Fridays. A night to take in life.

What does America Run On?

2009-08-02T23:00:00.004-05:00

I had no idea that America ran on Dunkin' until I started this journey out east. I was under the impression that all Dunkin' Donuts closed down long ago because a tobacco outlet now stands where the only one existed in Green Bay, WI. Apparently, Dunkin' fuels America everywhere else. However, they do not fuel me.

Carvel, on the other hand, took me on a wild ice cream ride that I've never been on before. Perhaps these do exist in the mid-west but I never had the pleasure until last night. The creamiest, richest soft-serve known to man.

Atlantic City

2009-07-31T23:33:00.003-05:00

Just because I have this new found sense of my life out here doesn't mean I'm lucky. I learned that the hard way in Atlantic City today. Suffice it to say that I'll need a couple days of work to make up my losses.

Money well spent on a good time though. Lots of craps, beers, Hooters, and magic. If I were ever going to go to Atlantic City, I'm glad I went with the company I had: a juggler and a magician.

My magician roommate, Jason, got us tickets to the magic show Carnival of Wonders, staring the dynamic team of Kalin the master illusionist and Jinger his lovely assistant. Not only fantastic performers, but incredibly nice people who were more than happy to hang out with us young entertainers and share a tip or two.

A great first trip to Atlantic City, but will it be my last?

A Shot in the Arm

2009-07-30T23:07:00.002-05:00

I love those early morning moments: half conscious, half in a dream, hitting the snooze button too many times just to get a measly extra few minutes, debating whether or not getting up is a good idea. Love it.

Except when you roll over onto a hornet that made its way up your short sleeve shirt and ensures that you hop you ass out of bed. That little yellow and black butted bitch is now dead, but it certainly left its mark. Right where you get a shot. I haven't felt pain like that since I got vaccinated for Thailand and I received three shots in the same arm. I guess I forgot what a sting feels like.

The last time I had one I was a rather wee lad. I was playing freeze tag with my cousins. Unfortunately, I just so happen to get froze right under a hornets nest. Rules are rules and I ain't no cheater. So there I stood, getting stung.

But besides the childhood nostalgia brought back from this early morning wake up call, I feel it served another purpose, it gave me a bit of a jolt. The entire day was filled with new things, productivity, and I was happy.

The past few weeks have been... well trying. A "quarter-life crisis" as my roommate magician told me. I really just haven't been myself lately. Which is probably why I haven't been writing much here. When things are going well, I'm doing interesting things, and I'm happy, then I have no qualms about posting all those happy-go-lucky thoughts and moments. But when things are going not so well, then I share nothing. Because heaven forbid I let the world know about my crappy life moments.

Then it occured to me...who cares? I started this blog to write about my life. The shitty moments are just as much a part of my life as the trips to The Lourve and Tenerife. Those of you reading can then look this blog and take pride in knowing that you're happier than I. Or you may read my bitching and think, "this kid has nothing to complain about." Which, when we get down to brass tacks or whatever cliche term you wanna use, I truly can't.

Not to say that the past month has been an absolute hell. There have been some grand times as well. But over the month of August, I'm going to be catching up on both the good, the bad, and the ugly times of July. And I'll keep the younger audience in mind and try not to use so much foul language. This was just me venting.

I'm Still Alive

2009-07-18T22:57:00.005-05:00

No doubt you've all been wondering, "When is Shawn going to post again? I can't take it anymore!"

I'm sure it's been keeping you up at night, "Was it something I said? Why would Shawn do this to me?"

Well alas, I'm going to use a line that is just as valid now as it has been the other times I've used it:

"It's me, not you."

This is very applicable. Let's face it, I've been slacking on the blogging. But for good reasons which I'll elaborate on over the coming weeks. We have almost a whole month to catch up on! What fun!

And don't worry, I'll never leave you like that again...

Slow Rye Life

2009-06-20T09:55:00.004-05:00

Now that I'm here in Rye and performing at Playland on a regular basis, things have really slowed down. For the most part, my summer travels are over, so I'll post on here when things get interesting.

Don't hold your breath.

About NYC

2009-06-16T15:01:00.009-05:00

6/15/2009

Upon awaking in Brooklyn at a friend's place, I set out to galavant around the city. Highlights include: the Mac Store, Central park, Toys 'R' Us, Trump Tower, and ending with the opening night HBO Summer Film Festival in Bryant Park. The night's feature: The Sting staring Robert Redford.

So yea, I said I would blog everyday... I didn't say each one would be good.

Lounge'n and Shoot'n

2009-06-15T08:50:00.005-05:00

6/14/2009

Thanks to the Times Square Alliance, I was able to take a good portion of my day and spend it sitting on Broadway and Seventh, watching, listening, thinking, and basking in this jungle called New York City.

The remainder of my day was spent watching my friend Allison rock in a pool tournament. Read all about it at nycgrind.com.

Watch the Gap? Please

2009-06-13T16:55:00.007-05:00

6/13/2009

In my 24 hours of being here, there are a few things I can take or leave.

First off, on the train platforms there are warnings that say Watch the Gap, a poor pathetic, bastardized American version of London's classic Mind the Gap. Come on, NY, I expected better.
Second, I've discovered that this is my landlady:

You Have Reached Your Destination

2009-06-13T15:25:00.008-05:00

6/12/2009

Mandy has said that to me many times throughout the past two weeks. Mandy is the GPS I've been using to get around the eastern half of the United States. Well, 'Mandy' is the female voice I chose to listen to. She was American, which is sad. One can download an expansion pack for a TomTom and get a British female voice, much more alluring. But I digress.

I'm here! I have arrived in Rye, NY. I spent most of today getting to know the town. It's got a great old school main street, lots of shops, and passersby. Around the corner from the main street is one of the performers houses. Down the street from there is the train to NYC, round trip ticket for around $20. Not bad.

I already got to know the shop owner at the local wine shop, Bruno. He sold me a nice Reisling while we chatted about the city and whether or not there were any good bars in Rye. He told me of a few places nearby. I figured I'd get to know them later that night.

After visiting the library for the internet and jamming in a park for a while, I decided to make my way to Playland amusement park to see where I'd be spending my summer. There I met with the cast manager Bret and briefly met others, as they were in the middle of rehearsal. The park is like a carnival that came to town, settled in one spot, and grew from there. It's got the same rides that a traveling carnival would, but also has a big roller coaster, screw-you-over carnival games, and of coarse, entertainment. Once I have conquered all the rides, I'll let you know if it's worth coming to.

While the rest of the cast rehearsed, I went to The Pub. Literally, a pub called The Pub. I was told by Bruno that is was a chill place. It was chill. Mostly because everyone in there was over 50. No matter. I still made a friend. Vinny was chatting, rather loudly, with his friend about good music, concerts they've been to etc. I piped in and before I knew it we were exchanging bang recommendations. Right now I'm looking at a coaster which he wrote the names of three artists: Peter White, The Amazing Blondel, and Dando Shaft. He ranted and raved about these three, guaranteeing I would not be disappointed..... truth be told, I'm a little disappointed. They all sound stereotypically like music someone over 50 would be into (no offense to those reading this who are). I told him I'd have a listen and see him next Friday at The Pub.

Once the cast was done with rehearsal, I met them all one town over at Buffalo Wild Wings. This is the area where the young'ns go. Apparently, I have a lot of hockey fans in my cast because every one of them had to lock into the Stanley Cup. I have to admit, it was fun watching Pittsburgh wail on Detroit, and seeing the Yankees win over the Mets on an outfield error was also quite exciting. Over a few beers, I got to properly meet the cast. Everyone seems eager and excited for the summer ahead.

Final Stats:

Total Miles Driven: 1,921

Total Stops for Gas: 8

Total Amount Spent on Gas: $245.75

Foggy Horses

2009-06-13T10:51:00.014-05:00

6/11/2009

I was thinking of spending another day/night in Philly, but really there wasn't much keeping me there. Plus, by this point in my journey I was ready to settle in Rye, NY, my final destination. However, after hitting the road out of Philly, I got a call from my company director informing me that the house I am to be moving into is not ready due to some renovations. So I extended my tour a bit.

As I drove up the Jersey shore I picked a point on the GPS and went to it, figuring I'd stop when I saw something interesting. That did take long. Within an hour of driving I came across Monmouth Park horse racing track. I've watched the Kentucky Derby on TV and such, but I've never been to a live horse race. Lucky me, I got there in time to see the last four races, three on the dirt and one on the turf.

It was a unique day for racing because as you can see, it was a touch foggy. For the majority of last race, the announcer just said, "and I can't see anything, last I saw 'Fast Forward' had the lead." Because of the mysty dampness, the dirt was good and thick and clung to the jockeys. It was these little nuances that entertained me the most.

Like when a horse decided he just wasn't going to leave the stables. The caretaker tugged and pulled, but he just planted his hooves. Every once in a while he would buck up on his rear legs and everyone around would clear the way. The race was drawing nearer. The owner and jockey were discussing scratching. Then out of nowhere the horse decided he was in the mood for racing after all. He ended up taking second.

After the races, I continued my drive north on Ocean Avenue. I pulled off to walk over the sand dunes but saw nothing but a few feet of the Atlantic Ocean and a whole lot of fog.

I continued north and reached Sandy Hook National Park. I'm sure this place is gorgeous on a bright sunny day. However, I did not have such luck. Further into the park though, things got more interesting.

In the early 1890's this National Park was (and still is) a homeland security base. Some of the old turrets and mortars are no longer in use and are open to visitors. Well, they are sort of open. The cool parts are gated off. But that did stop me. There was no one else in the park, so I figured a little gate hoping wouldn't hurt. I went where this sign said I shouldn't. Opps, but worth it.

Not Always Sunny in Philadelphia

2009-06-12T15:35:00.013-05:00

6/10/2009

It was overcast all day. But no matter. I made it to Philly and met up with Zach, whom I met on couchsurfing.com. Now when I mentioned couchsurfing to family and friends before I left on this little excursion I got a lot of, "are you sure you wanna do that?" And I do understand people's concern.

Allow me to explain couchsurfing. Better yet, I'll let them. This is taken straight from the "What is Couchsurfing?" page on their website:

Mission:

"CouchSurfing seeks to internationally network people and places, create educational exchanges, raise collective consciousness, spread tolerance, and facilitate cultural understanding."

As a community we strive to do our individual and collective parts to make the world a better place, and we believe that the surfing of couches is a means to accomplish this goal. CouchSurfing isn't about the furniture- it's not just about finding free accommodations around the world- it's about participating in creating a better world. We strive to make a better world by opening our homes, our hearts, and our lives. We open our minds and welcome the knowledge that cultural exchange makes available. We create deep and meaningful connections that cross oceans, continents and cultures. CouchSurfing wants to change not only the way we travel, but how we relate to the world!

The safety factor is also addressed on their site. But I really wasn't too concerned on safety. Zach is just a guy, like me, like so many people. Say 10% of people in the world (and I think I'm over estimating) are out to get you: harm you, scam you, etc. That still leaves 90% that are just living life, not interested in hurting anyone. This certainly was Zach, a fellow guitar player.

He had to work most of the afternoon so I made it around Philly on my own, checking out the Historic district and walking around the Delaware riverfront as well as South Street, a popular shopping/eating/happening area. Saw Benjamin Franklin's grave, Besty Ross' house, some war memorials, and buildings that dated back to the time of the Revolutionary War.

Once Zach was done with work we walked down to south Philadelphia for some Geno's and Pat's cheesesteaks. These two epic rivals are located right across the street from one another. Since there is so much controversy over which is better I figured I'd overstuff myself and sample one of each. Geno's, with it's neon flashy exterior uses a cheese wiz, imitation cheese on their steaks. Pat's, on the other hand, uses real slices of cheese. Being the Wisconsin guy that I am, I had to choose the one with the real cheese.

Give me more Baltimore

2009-06-12T11:49:00.014-05:00

6/9/2009

Around an hour drive northeastish of D.C., and I was in Baltimore, Maryland. Here I was meeting up with old running pal Brennan. He works for the Baltimore Orioles, and was busy all day. Fine by me, cause the harbor was just a short bike ride from Brennan's place.

Full of restaurants and rental mini-boats, the harbor area is well designed and great for a chill afternoon. Lining the docks are a few permanently moored historic ships that are available for touring.

It was either that or go to the aquarium where it seemed every elementary school in Baltimore was taking an end-of-the-year field trip. I decided to go where there were no screaming children, aboard the USS Torsk and later the USS Constellation.

The Torsk was a submarine used most in the late 50's / early 60's. It was nifty, but so tight that some men even had to sleep above torpedo storage. Leavers are exposed all over the place which would make me nervous as a sailor knowing I could accidently bump one and flood the whole shebang. The other most interesting part, to me anyway, was the escape hatch which was used if they did start taking on water. Four men would sardine their way into this hatch, close the end they came from, and start filling the airtight space with sea water. Once full, they would open the top hatch and swim their way out. This process was then repeated for every man on board.

My real cup of tea was the USS Constellation, the last wooden sail ship built but the US Navy. I think I was most into this ship for two reasons. One being I want to go on extend sail on a grand tall ship sooner than later. The other reason is I had just finished reading Blue Latitudes by Tony Horwitz. It's a book about the journey of Capt. James Cook as he "discovered" islands and indigenous peoples around the Pacific. From reading that book and taking the audio tour at the USS Constellation, I feel like I could tell anyone all there is to know about ships in the late 1700's. Go ahead. Ask me sometime. (Just don't ask about the actual sailing aspect)

I sat around the harbor people watching for a while, but the skies started to look a little questionable. I made it back to my car just in time to sit through some high winds and pounding thunder. After a while, the rain stopped and Brennan got done with work. We took a seven mile run around the Harbor area and over to the Oriole's stadium where people were beginning to pile in. We ran back to his place, showered, and made it to the stadium in time to see the first run of the game.

Since Brennan is a supervisor in charge of sponsorship and advertising, he oversees all that is sold and displayed in the park. I think I annoyed the hell out of him throughout the game, asking him how much that sign was or that promotional "text-in-your-answer" question. It was cool sitting with someone who knew all those ins and outs. Plus from our private box, we had a great view of what turned out to be a beautiful night in Baltimore.

Gotta Love D.C.

2009-06-10T07:39:00.012-05:00

6/8/2009

Seeing as how my friends are all employed, I took on D.C. today on my own. Went to see the Freedom Documents: The Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and the United States Constitution. From reading the info provided while I was waiting in line, I learned that the rotunda room where the documents are kept is only two footcandles in luminosity. Apparently a footcandle is the distance of a candle a foot away from you. A sunny summer's day can reach 12,000 footcandles. But no matter what the lighting is like, seeing those documents is an experience every American should have.

From there I took a walk to the sculpture garden in the middle of the mall. Among the many interesting pieces a few stuck out in my mind. One being the Wishing Tree for Washington D.C.

by Yoko Ono. While I do despise her for breaking up the Beatles, this piece is pretty cool. It's just a tree. But next to it is a box full of tags in which visitors write their wishes and place them on the tree. I'd tell you what mine was but I'm afraid it's like a birthday wish, and it may not come true.

Another nifty piece was this two-dimensional house that looked very three-dimensional.

I decided more art was in order. So I continued my day at the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Modern Art museum. As you may recall from an early blog on modern art, I have mixed feelings on it. But this gallery had quite a few I could get into.

Today had it's fill of art, but I could use a bit more history. So I checked out the Native American Indian Museum, which was worth the stop just for the incredible design of the building itself. But inside I dove into the world of the America Indian, from the Incas to the Alaskan tribes.

The museum closed on me before I could get in all that I wanted, but no matter. It was time to end my night. I had dinner with my gracious host Sara at Bangkok 54, a fantastic Thai place. Then ended my night with a few beers and catching up with my other Sara friend, this one from college.

We finished up our beers just in time for me to catch the last Metro leaving Foggy Bottom.

D.C. Brunch and Georgetown Waterfront

2009-06-09T21:37:00.007-05:00

6/7/2009

With the Jumbo Slice of pizza comfortably sitting in my belly, I knew it was time for sleep. Making it back to Crystal City just wasn't going to happen, so I crashed at Chris' place.

Upon awaking this morning, we were hungry. How this is possible after eating a pizza slice the size of a small child, I'll never know. But I was informed that while I was in D.C., I had to experience a D.C. brunch.

This brunch was nothing like the Sunday after church crowd in Green Bay, WI. The first thing the waitress asks for is your drink order. Much like a dinner, except this is brunch, the first thing most people will eat on Sundays. As it turns out, I had half a bloody mary in me before anything else. But when my omelet came to the table, the bloody was on hold till this magnificent egg creation was taken down. Besides the great food and drinks, the meal was also accompanied by great conversation, as Alex, Chris, and I caught up on old times from 9 years ago. Yet, I felt bad for Chris' roommate who sat quietly, taking in all of our ridiculous stories.

Chris had a soccer game after our brunch. So Alex and I went to his place to chill on his rooftop pool. Once I felt like I had fried myself enough up there. We went down to the Georgetown Waterfront where at 2pm the outdoor bars were packed with people getting there afternoon buzz on. We chilled at this bar for the rest of the afternoon as we watched helicopter after helicopter buzz the waterfront every 20 minutes or so, both police and Coast Guard. When two US helicopters flew by together, Alex told me it was probably Biden. When three fly together, that means it's the president.

Eventually, Chris met back up with us. At this point, we were already about eight margaritas into our afternoon, but we still had room for a few more.

I walked back to the metro station with Chris. On the way, I broke our conversation to say, "um Chris is that the White House?" Hey replied with a, "oh yeah, and that's the US Treasury."

A Tourist with Well Connected Friends

2009-06-08T09:31:00.012-05:00

6/6/2009
Today started out as a touristy day of D.C. with Sara as my guide. First we saw the Navy Memorial/Fountains. Then we walked to a park where a young boy apparently just couldn't hold it anymore.

From there we checked out the Natural History Museum where we saw some prehistoric skeleton's of extinct sea creatures, land mammals, and birds, but more importantly DINOSAURS. Oh and the Hope Diamond which is surprisingly not as impressive as one would think.

After that museum, we met up with my other buddy Chris and checked out the Air and Space Museum. Here we saw a model of the Wright brother's plane, a bunch of rockets, and the coolest parts, the Apollo command modules. I also discovered that one of the Wright brothers was a wicked mandolin player. Who knew?

Chris just so happens to be a legislative assistant on Capitol Hill, so he took Sara and I on a little tour of the offices. We even got to venture out onto the roof to get a fantastic view of Independence Avenue and the Capitol.

Then we were hungry. It was a toss up between Ethiopian and Spanish tapas. Since we passed by the tapas place first, it won out. Fantastic little dishes. One consisting of the most flavorful, tender chicken, another dish of warmed mini-potatoes with a spicy/tangy dipping sauce. The wild rice and mushrooms had each of us fighting for the last bite. Even the asparagus, covered in a buttery base and topped with asiago cheese, made for quite a treat. Washing it all down, a perfectly blended sangria.

A good day in D.C. But we still had a night ahead of us. Sara and I parted ways with Chris to get ready for the night. I met up with Chris later in Columbia Heights, just a 15 minute Metro ride up from Crystal City where I was staying with Sara. We started things out in a dive bar with a few bottle's of PBR. But eventually we wanted to meet up with another friend, Alex. We made our way to South 18th street, a bar district packed sidewalk to sidewalk with a young drinking crowd. We drank at Town Tavern for a bit and met up with Alex, then went next door to a sweet jazz lounge, more my cup of tea. Unfortunately, the band was just wrapping up. But no matter, cause we were getting free drinks. It helps to know people who know bartenders in D.C.

After that, we were done, but hungry. I was told I had to experience a jumbo slice of pizza. At the time, I remember a euphoria of pizza bursting in my face. However, the next morning when I looked at this picture, the only thing I could say was, "I ate that?"

Hold Your Breath and Hit the Gas

2009-06-05T18:28:00.004-05:00

6/5/2009

Driving in D.C. is a hell on wheels that I am not looking forward to repeating anytime soon. But it was cool to be diligently following the GPS and turn a corner to see the Washington Monument poking out of the city. A few turns later and I was circling the Iwo Jima Monument, followed by Arlington Cemetery. However, I'm extremely glad to be off those roads and enjoying a Yuengling lager.

After chilling out at my friend Sara's apartment for a bit, we grabbed a bottle of wine and headed for the mall to see some night sights: Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War Two Fountains, and the Korean War Memorial. Cruising up and down the mall at night is a gorgeous way to see these memorials in their greatest splendor as they are beautifully lit. Plus, you are not fighting too many tourists for a close look or a good picture.

Didn't Know I Had that Muscle

2009-06-05T09:20:00.011-05:00

6/5/2009

As I woke this morning, I couldn’t figure out which pains are from the six hour cave dive and which are from sleeping in the car. There's a lot of not just condensation, but a thick layer of dripping water on all may car windows. Undoubtedly from my sleeping in here, but also from the large pile of wet clothing in my back seat. Either way, I had to get out of that car before pushing on to D.C.

Right next to the Sleep Inn is Harding’s Family Restaurant, a good ol’ fashioned diner where I can get a hardy breakfast. The combined elevator-music rendition of Goo Goo Doll's "Slide" and the large display of Bennie Babies in the gift shop gives this diner a slice of class like no other. Anywho, my cakes and eggs are coming soon.

Here are some more stats thus far:

Miles Driven: 1,180

Total Gas Cost: $97.64

State w/ Highest Gas Cost: Illinois

Number of Times I've Had to Poop in the Woods: 2

Caving Makes it All Better

2009-06-04T23:12:00.008-05:00

Yesterday was worth it for today. Even though I woke up at 7am, packed up a wet tent full of wet clothes, pulled a deer tick from my inner thigh, and did it all in the rain, still worth it.

My wild cave tour consisted of Tim from Chicago, Diane and Gretchen from Georgia, and our two guides Taylor and Emily. That's it. Three guys and three girls each physically fit and able to challenge this cave to its fullest. Our lead guide Taylor ensured us right from the beginning that because we had a small group, we'd see much more than the average tour. My little boot snafu yesterday seemed to happen for a reason. Because that tour was at a full capacity of 14, and not all of them looked like the most intense climbers. But today, we were.

From straddling canyons to belly crawls through 9 inch openings this tour was more than I could ever have imagined. I couldn't count the amount of times we came out of an opening, turned around, and said, "we just came out of that?!" There were also many moments when we barely had room to move and all I could see was the ass or boots in front of me. A few of those times, I had to slowly breathe and say to myself, "you're ok, countless people have done this before you." Today, I conquered claustrophobia.

The tightest passage is called Bare Pass, which got it's name from a tourist from the 1950's who lost his pants going through it. It's that tight. Another favorite was Hell's Pass, a detour which Taylor let me lead on. It's a whole other experience leading a crawl from the front, and wondering when or if that belly journey would end. A spot I suggested going to after I saw it's name was the Cheese Grater, a tight winding passage full of jagged limestone that tears your clothing as you crawl. Everyone thanked me for suggesting that after we made it through.

As fun as the tight passages and crawls were, one can't help but to be amazing at the natural beauty of the cave all around you. It's especially awe-inspiring in rooms like the Cathedral or Ethel's Dome, both known for their remarkably high ceilings. The final stop, Frozen Niagara, is a site any visitor to Mammoth Cave needs to see.

My favorite moment of the whole tour is when we were walking down a paved trail that all the less strenuous tours take. All of the sudden with any warning, Taylor looks at a tiny opening to his left and dives in. The other guide, Emily, said, "ok, follow him." That's a good representation of our day.

These most extreme tours can go pretty much anywhere the guide wishes to take the group. Since we were all abled-bodied visitors, we grabbed that cave by the stalagmites and made it our bitch.

Once the tour was done, I was on a euphoric high. After a much needed shower, I used that high to hit the road and get five hours behind me. Currently, I'm in a Sleep Inn motel parking lot using their wifi. I intend on "sleeping in" my car and journeying the rest of the way to Washington D.C. tomorrow.

...Even When Life Tries to Get You Down

2009-06-04T22:27:00.007-05:00

6/3/2009

Once I was done with my online business at Arby's, I looked out the window. The black sky rolling in and the wind bent trees suggested the beginning of a tornado. As I rushed out the door I heard one fast food patron say in his Kentucky twang, "I heard there's some hail coming in!"

Just as I was getting in my car, an old gentlemen getting into his said, "let's high tail it outta here!" With a smirk I replied, "too bad I'm camping at the National Park."

"You'll be fine," was his quick remark as he dashed into his car and drove off.

Barely seeing through the buckets of water splashing over my windshield, I drove through the tiny towns outlining the National Park. One in particular, Cave City, is a tiny run down town built around the tourism of Mammoth Cave. It's full of novelty gift stores, crappy mini-golf courses, and other second rate attractions. But one caught my eye through the haze of water on my windshield: Dinosaur World.

A park that boasts over 100 life-size dinosaur models in an outdoor realistic setting. I was in Jurassic Park heaven. Especially because when I got there, it was still thundering and lightning. Even though everyone else at Dinosaur World was running out (all 6 of them) I insisted on running in. Although the park mostly caters to those under 12, I would argue it's fun for all ages.

Except on a day like today, where the challenges keep coming. My main purpose for going into Dinosaur World was to get as many pictures as I could of me with these super sweet dino replicas. However, as you may recall from earlier today my good camera died. Now my crapy one was making me work for every picture as I had to turn it off and then on in order to take every single pic. Frustrating. But still, at $12.50, Dinosaur World was worth every penny.

Things dried off as I was there, so I figured I'd check back in at my campsite and survey the damage. To my surprise, my day's luck turned around as my tent still stood with minimal water inside.

A touch of daylight remained, so I hiked along some trails and saw where the subterranean River Styx's opened up to the surface world. I winded my way down some other trails and discovered that deer are just straight up attracted to me in this park. Three sat eating dinner no more than 15 feet away as I sat and watched the chomped up leaves roll down their long necks as they swallowed.

Got back to my campsite just in time for the rain. Sat in my tent entertaining myself with the mandolin and trying to get some stations in on my wind-up radio. Eventually the rain started coming down harder, and I found exactly where the leaky spots in my tent are. I plugged them up with dirty clothes I had lying around and slept as dry as I could.

Always Look on the Bright Side of Life...

2009-06-03T14:12:00.007-05:00

6/3/2009

Today just started off bad. I awoke much earlier than expected to the sound of screaming German children in the campsite next to mine. Then I went to charge my camera and discovered it's dead. The lens won't even extend from the camera itself. The battery is fully charged but the lens is no longer willing.

Ok, no big deal. I have another, yet much crappier, camera that can take some decent pictures of me spelunking. A quick breakfast, a sink shower, and I was on my way to meet with my tour guide.

We met on the back porch of the visitor's center. Ranger John started describing the journey ahead of us twelve. As he described how we would have to inhale to get around one rock and exhale to pass another, I couldn't have been more excited. Then he said, "let's check over all of your gear."

He glanced and me and said, "This fellow has the ideal outfit for spelunking. Cargo pants, long sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes. Right now I'll have all of you hike your pants up so I can inspect your shoes." Then he checked out my shoes and said, "Oh, doesn't look like these will work out." I had the rest of the ensemble right, but not the shoes.

Apparently, it is an unbendable rule that you must have hiking boots that come up over the ankle. Mine stopped just short. I even brought soccer shin-guards that covered part of the ankle, but apparently that wasn't enough. I wasn't allowed to go. The trip I had booked a month in advance and had been looking forward to just as long, wasn't going to happen.

As one of the rangers stood explaining my options, I was just fuming. He said, "here are the other tours you can take today.....blah, blah, blah." I didn't hear anything else he said. Other tours? I didn't want another tour. I wanted the Wild Cave Tour, the tour that has chest diameter requirements, the tour that takes 6 hours, the tour that made other people in the visitor's center say, "you have to be nuts to do that." That's the tour I wanted. I didn't want to walk around where the other tourists and people with bad back's walked. I wanted a challenge.

I sat weighing my options. Finally, I decided any tour would be better than no tour. I went with some other package. As I walked away from the ticket counter with my new ticket in hand and the difference of the two tours refunded, I was still rather upset. I thought of how I wouldn't be satisfied until I really spelunked that cave.

And it dawned on me, just go tomorrow. I'm not on any strict schedule. What's another day in Kentucky? I walked back up to the ticket counter, asked to go on tomorrow's tour, and asked where I could purchase the proper hiking boots.

Sadly, the nearest place was Wal-Mart. Barf. Whatever. The boots were only $35.00 and I'll probably return them tomorrow. So, here I am at Arby's. Using their free wi-fi. (Ohh yea, that fast food rule ended before it began. It seems that fast food rules the highways.)

At 10:05 this morning, once I was booted off the tour, I was ready to pack up camp and hit the road with all the rage I could muster. I was pissed. But after taking a few moments to really assess the situation, I settled down and made the best of what I was dealt. I'll be on my way back to Mammoth Cave National Park now, maybe take in a bike ride. Either way, I'll have had a great day. I'll have an even better one tomorrow.

Mammoth Cave National Park

2009-06-03T13:19:00.012-05:00

6/2/09

Hit the road at 9 this morning and got to Mammoth Cave National Park around 11:30. Found myself a campsite, and got the tent set up just in time for a 20 minute downpour. I've never heard thunder like I've heard it in Kentucky. Intensely loud cracking like a giant bundling up a few redwood trees and snapping them like toothpicks. The storm helped me take a much-needed nap, and now I have my first cave tour in 20 minutes. I am pumped.

My first cave tour today was an easy stroll through this wonder of a natural spectacle. Words can't describe it's beauty and apparently neither can pictures. Because the cave is so vast the flash from a camera didn't really help much, so pictures don't really work out. But a few did.

This is the bottomless pit. It's 105 feet deep. It was termed bottomless from the first cave explorers who looked down it with simple lanterns, making it look like the entrance to the center of the earth.

Other notable places in the cave included the rotunda (the largest open room in the cave system), the old salt vats of the mining operations, and the methodist church.

The methodist church was a spot in the cave where in the 1800's a local preacher took church goers to worship. Why a cave? It's a constant 50-some degrees in there, much better than a packed little chapel reaching the 90's on the surface. The preacher would lead the parishioners down the cave to the large chapel room. From there, he would take everyone's lantern and place them on a ledge to backlight him as he spoke. Black stained rocks mark where these lanterns sat. The preacher's sermons would sometimes last up to 4 hours, yet everyone stayed the whole time because this crafty preacher had all their lanterns placed behind him. Without that light, it's a treacherous and close to impossible walk back out. Who would be bold enough to interrupt the word of God, walk up behind the preacher, and say "sorry Father, I've had enough."

As we continued another hundred feet down we encountered "Tall Man's Agony," a long corridor of a four-foot-high ceiling, and "Fat Man's Misery," similar to the Agony but horizontal instead of vertical. Also, pictured at right, was the giant's coffin, eerily shaped and colored like the coffin of Paul Bunyan.

The cave is full of wonders, each with a story attached. All along the route were scribbles of graffiti, most from the mid-late 1800's. Our guide, Kaite (who looked like the Ting Ting's Kaite White), told us that any graffiti prior to 1941 is historical graffiti, anything written after that is a federal offense.

This historical graffiti is quite interesting, most of it done by burning dots into the rock with candle flame. The most interesting to me was a burned etching from 1855 when the first band played in the cave. Just a few yard from the tunnel where their name has lasted centuries, is a room in the cave with incredible acoustics. Back then, bands would perform in the cave often to a crowd of lantern holding spectators.

The cave tour was magnificent. I didn't want to resurface. Mostly because it was ranging in the 90's with I'm assuming close to 90% humidity. From the entrance of the cave, you can feel both the heat of the surface and the wonderful cool air of the cave. You can also see the fog created from the meeting of the two.

I went back to my site and made a delicious pineapple and ham "pie." It must have smelled good too because I had about five guests for dinner. A little herd of deer kept a safe 20 feet away as this sniffed in my direction and I threw them a few scraps.

My night finished with the burning down of the campfire and a few songs on my guitar. Until tomorrow's cave spelunking!

New Month, New State

2009-06-03T13:14:00.005-05:00

6/1/09

I hit the road around quarter to 8 this morning. Destination: Evansville, Indiana. I’ve just now stopped at 10:00 to refuel and de-oil my un-showered skin.

So far, so good. Here are some statistics:

Miles driven: 325

Total Gas Costs: $31.11 + just refueled: $33.02 = $64.13

Later That Day:

Arriving in Evansville around 4pm, I made my way to the University of Southern Indiana campus to meet up with a friend who’s doing summer-stock theatre work there. She wasn’t quite done with work yet, so I decided to take a jog around the USI campus.

Hot & Humid. That’s all I can really say about both my drive today and my run. I knew the south would be warmer, but I didn’t quite expect this. Nor did I expect my air conditioner to just shoot out air instead of cold air. My car is a rolling inferno.

My night in Evansville was chill, but really that’s what I needed. Hanging out with some fun theatre peeps playing drinking games. Even from state to state, some things never change. Drinking is drinking and a good time is a good time.

Drove to Chicago, All things Go

2009-06-01T19:20:00.005-05:00

9-31-2009

With a long night in Boytown behind us, Lee and I woke up to a leisurely morning consisting of Hulu videos and playing with Charlie the rabbit. Lee had some studying to do as his finals were coming up, so I took the Metra (yes, Metra, not metro) into the city for a little touristy Chicago fun.

I made my way up the Sears tower to the Skydeck observation level on floor 99. For a soild hour I stood up there gazing out onto the magnificent city below, thinking of the hundreds of thousands of lives that are unfolding under my feet. It’s a humbling experiences seeing a city like Chicago laid out beneath you.

My friend Meagan met me up there and we sat for another long while staring out onto the city and catching each other up on the last year of our lives.

A ear-poppingly quick ride down the elevator and Meagan and I were walking the city streets seeing what there was to see. In a short while we got thirsty and realized we were across the street from the House of Blues. Great place for a few beers. Last night I was introduced to 312 (pronounced three one two), a locally famous Chicago brew reminiscent of New Glaurus’ spotted cow. Good converstion, good beer, great atmosphere, but before long we decided to check out more of the city.

Millennium park was our next stop. What an incredible public space. We just so happen to get there as a local youth choir was finishing up a concert in the park. The stage, architecture, and sound of this performance space is masterfully done. I could see myself as a Chicago citizen and utilizing this space on a daily basis.

The incredible Mellennium park outdoor art has made a landmark in-print on this Chicago area.

One can get some rather impressive pictures using this metallic dome-blob to help.

From there, we did a bit more walking as the sun began to set on this marvelous setting.

Dillo Day, Off to a Good Start

2009-05-31T13:00:00.010-05:00

9-30-2009

At the end of every school year the students at Northwestern University in Evanston Chicago unfurl themselves from their armadillo armored balls and let loose. Hence the endearing term Dillo Day, 24 hours of drunken debauchery topped off by a free concert.

For the day, I was a Northwestern student. Got into Chicago around 5pm and wasted no time. After a few rounds of beirut, my friend Lee, his roommate, and I made our way to the lakeshore for the concert featuring Estelle. Brilliant show. She is a beautiful, sincere performer, constantly breaking the fourth wall to really get the audience into it. She even paused the show for a ridiculously wasted chick in the crowd who needed some medical attention. But besides that, great show.

From Estelle we headed to Lee's fraternity house on campus. Basically, it's a 20-some room dorm-like mansion, in which every room has it's own mini-bar. The drinking continued there.

Then came in the most interesting part of the night, Boystown, Chicago's flamboyantly gay district. From Hydrate to Cocktail and finally passing out at Mini-bar, the night got only more ridiculous, and much more gay.

A Few Stipulations

2009-05-30T00:08:00.002-05:00

Before I head out, there are a few things I need to specify. Maybe not so much for you the reader, but for me. I have a few stipulations, a few rules, some goals in mind for this road trip and this summer:

I will not eat at a fast food restaurant. This one has a stipulation of it's own. I will eat at a fast food joint if (a) I've never been to that particular kind before (i.e. Sonic) and (b) there is no grocery store within reasonable driving distance. Only if those two parameters are met will I dive arteries first into fries and grease.
I will blog everyday. Much like when I was on my continental tour of Europe, I will write everyday, but will post whenever I have internet capabilities.
I will video blog at least once a week. Let's face it, if you check into this blog regularly, you want to see my smiling face.
I will stop when something looks worth stopping for. Too many times have I drove past a state park sign or a scenic overlook. This time around I will stop, even if only to snap a quick picture.
I will write one letter a week. I like the physical communication of letter writing. Shoot your address my way and you may be the lucky recipient of one such letter.
I will continue to run, but concentrate more on my marathon withered upper body. I truly came to enjoy training for that marathon. No matter how little I got done in a day, as long as I got that run in, I felt like I accomplished something. Once I settle in Rye, I will get into a routine that will give me that accomplished feeling once again.

So there you have it, my summer goals. Please, hold me to them.

East Bound and Down

2009-05-29T23:04:00.006-05:00

Weddings are a good time. Hard to argue against that. Two loving people become one, family and friends reunite to celebrate like they never left each other, dancing like idiots without a care, and most often, free alcohol flows through everyone's veins (which aids in the dancing). It's a new beginning.

Tomorrow morning I will have a new beginning, a fresh start. I've spent the past few months here in Green Bay enjoying the time I've had here. But a lot of that time was also spent confused and frustrated with where I was in life. For some reason, at 23 I just expected more.

Tomorrow I will have more. For two weeks I'm going to take advantage of what this country has to offer. While I have a vague idea of where I'm going and what I'm doing over these next 14 days, I'll be playing a lot by ear. That smidgen of uncertainty gives me an edge of excitement. For example, this upcoming Wednesday. I have a six hour spelunking tour of Mammoth Cave in Kentucky. Will I get in those 9 inch crevasses and have a claustrophobic panic attack? Who knows! But certain things are planned out and good to go.

Tomorrow I will be starting this summer off right. My first stop is Chicago. I'll be catching up with a good friend and seeing The Decemberist, N.E.R.D., and Estelle LIVE. I'm hoping Sunday will include the Shed aquarium or perhaps the art museum. We'll see how hungover I am. But either way, I am pleased with my first stop.

I was pleased tonight as well, seeing my long time friend Brandon join forever with his soul mate Joy. I've been to a few weddings in my day and never have a seen a couple enjoy life together more than these two.

Tomorrow I will begin enjoying life like I never have before, just me and the road. I'm east bound and down, loading up, and truck'n.

Surprising Myself

2009-05-17T19:59:00.002-05:00

Yesterday felt good, real good. Truth be told it took me by surprise. It was my first time running a consecutive 13.1 miles. I trained, prepared, slept, and ate as well as I could to ensure the morning would go as trouble free as it could. But I really wasn't expecting to finish this beast in 1:47:11.

Now I know what to beat for next time.... and there will be a next time.

Let's Look Ahead

2009-05-11T17:26:00.006-05:00

It's come to my attention that a great majority of my blog posts are in the past tense, looking back. Well, everyone likes looking forward to something, so I give you today's post.

A look into my future.

In less than I week, I'll be running my first half marathon. I am all sorts of excited. The months of training have certainly paid off in terms of definition. My legs haven't looked like this since high school. But the training is about surviving 13.1 miles. Truthfully, I think I can do more than survive. I'm shooting for 9 minute miles. Though, when I pushed up to 10 mile runs, there were plenty of aches, pains, and mental blocks. My hope is the camaraderie and general race day adrenaline will take care of little snafu's that my mind and body may encounter.

If you care to help make sure I cross the finish line, camp out along the route.

If anyone feels like blasting music from their car for me, I could really go from "The Kids" by MGMT around the 11 mile mark.

Now for the exciting news (drum roll please). I'm moving to New York!! Indeed, I have landed a summer job working at theme park in Rye, NY. It's called Playland. Despite the cheesy late 80's promotional they have playing on their site, it's supposedly a fantastic park. I'll have solo acoustic gigs Tuesday thru Sunday. Every Monday I'll be making my way 20 minutes south to the city. My hope is by late summer, I'll have done enough interviews and auditions to have landed something out there. Since London I've been itching for the excitement of a city again. Hopefully, this summer will scratch the right spot.

My journey out there begins on May 30th. I don't start work till mid-June. So, I'm taking my time on the road. I'll be stopping a few places I've always wanted and saying hi to friends I haven't seen in too long. Best of all, I intend on camping most of the way. I'll be making a stop in Chicago, Mammoth Cave in southern Indiana, then down to the Great Smokey Mountains, and up to the Monongahela National Forest. From there it's a trip up the East Coast: D.C., Baltimore, Philly, and finally, New York, New York.

If you know of any must see stops along this general route, PLEASE COMMENT. I have the time and I really don't want to miss something spectacular. Especially if it's a little off the beaten path.

That's life for me. Once I hit the road, I intend on daily blogs. Be sure to keep checking in.

Entertainment

2009-04-30T12:40:00.000-05:00

As I approach this weekend I can't help but feel that something is amiss. Last weekend I felt the same thing. Like there was something I missed, forgot to do..... ah, that's it. I didn't work last weekend, and I don't have to this weekend either.

But really, was it work? It occupied my time much like a job does, taking 3 hours out of four nights a week. Plus, I did get paid to do it. However, a part of me can't justify going on stage, acting like a moron, and singing a few songs a real job. But part of me thinks, "it is a talent." It really boils down to quality.

Entertainment, specifically music and theatre, is a touchy subject when it comes to quality. It's all in the eye, and ear, of the beholder. Personally, I'm a critic. Not that everything has to be perfect, but for me to be entertained a performance needs to encompass real talent, skill and noticeable effort. Though, not every entertainer strives for either of those.

Not every sloppy strumming, slack jawed "singer/songwriter" you hear in a coffee shop considers themselves a professional player. They are just doing it to do it. I respect that in the highest regard. I, on the other hand, want to be something more.

I'm rambling so let's get down to it. The long and short of it is this: Entertainment is a Release. An audience member pays good money to be taken out of their life for a while. Forget about everything but the show that's in front of them. If a performance doesn't take the audience member on a ride, if it doesn't move them in some way, then the performer did not do his/her job and I believe they have no business calling themselves a quality performer.

Harsh? Maybe, but I've struggled a lot with this topic recently. Whether or not performing is a viable career path, or whether I should just stick to a community theatre performance every so often. We'll see. In the meantime, I'm perfecting my chops. I just finished two runs with Daddy D productions. The completion of the 80's Show also completes my time with Daddy D's as I begin to look east. But here's a taste for what we did there. I'll let your ears determine the quality:

Here's Looking at Trivia

2009-04-25T11:14:00.019-05:00

This time last weekend, over 13,000 people were starting to feel intense fatigue. Instead of sleeping Friday night, they locked their ears to the nearest radio attempting to answer the seemingly impossible trivia questions that came out of it. For the past 40 years, the college town of Stevens Point, WI gets swamped one April weekend, as thousands of people gather into basements, hotels, and dorm rooms to play in the world's largest trivia contest. Known simply as Trivia.

90FM is unlike any other college station in the mid-west, dare I say even the nation. Not only do they play the best music you've never been given the chance to hear. They also are responsible for one of the most widespread media events in the world.

The DJ reads a question twice, plays a song, reads the question again, plays another song, and then the answer is given. The moment the question is read you start scrambling, searching every corner of Google, Yahoo, or Goodsearch. The first song nears it's end and the question is read once more. Pressure's on. Only one song to go before you have to call in an answer to one of 18 phone operators. Time is running out. You don't know if your answer is right, but is the best chance you have. You call it in just before the DJ tells everyone to put their phones down. After reading the question a final time, the answer is read. Most likely, you got it wrong. Now, imagine 54 hours of that.

As a staff member at UWSP's radio station, WWSP 90FM, I had the privilege of helping organize this monster of a contest. Every January the staff starts getting ready. From recruiting volunteers, to creating promotional announcements, to organizing a parade, I put more time and preparation into this contest than I did a lot of my studies. During the weekend itself, all of us at the station eat, sleep, and breath Trivia. The best part is interviewing teams and creating a two minute audio package we call a "trivia focus."

Here's a bit of the audio I've produced from Trivia's past:

As you can hear, these teams are just plain fun. Most of them use some amazing creativity in choosing their team name as well. Since the name is read over the air, they can't be too vulgar. But innuendos are almost encouraged. Such as "The Worst Acronym Team" or last year's "Obama's poll has Hillary on Top." Then there are the random names like "Never Trust a Baby with a Mustache" and "Lactation Nation" . The majority of players are just out there to have a good time.

I never really had the opportunity to see what this contest is like to a player since I was always a facilitator. This past weekend was my chance. I joined up with "Staff Infection," a team made up of past 90FM staff members.

Arriving in Stevens Point around 1am on Sunday, I could tell everyone on the team I was joining had been playing nonstop since Friday. They were running on fumes. But before long, we all got our second (or fourth) wind. We perked up and began pounding out correct answer after correct answer.

Personally though, I could not handle those questions. They are just too hard. You have to play to understand. They questions are written in such a way that you first have to figure out what exactly the question is about, what the question is referencing, then you can go about trying to answer it.

My favorite part is the scavenger hunt. Clues are read over the air every few hours and your goal is to drive around town and attempt to find a person handing out stamps. It's bizarre driving around at 4am and seeing a line of 40 cars all headed in the same direction.

In the end "90FM Staff Infection" took 219th place out of 415 teams. In honesty, we did more drinking than playing. It's a wild and crazy weekend that I will strive to never miss. Many in point use this weekend as an unofficial homecoming. For me and my friends, it's become the official coming home.

Emeril Lagasse meets Daniel Boone

2009-04-23T17:46:00.001-05:00

Being relatively unemployed has its downsides. Mostly consisting of not having money for things like bills, health insurance, gas. It's bad enough not having money for the essentials like drinking, going out, and partying. But being the optimist that I am, being unemployed also has its benefits. Mostly consisting of having way too much free time. Which truthfully can be a blessing or a curse.

In the case of me and my other good buddies, who also happen to not have jobs, we've taken the time that we'd otherwise flitter away and the beautiful weather that we'd otherwise waste in front of an Xbox, and turned ourselves into regular Emeril Lagasses.

It all started when my friend, Mike, got himself a dutch oven, which for those who don't know is a large cast iron pot for cooking over a fire. We had a cook book. It served well as a start for our recipes, but we decided to take things a little further.

For example, the Good Old-Fashioned Family Stew. The recipe called for:

1 pound of stew meat, cut to 1" cubes
2 large diced onions
4 cubed potatoes
1 cup of baby carrots
1/2 cup of diced celery
1/2 cup of diced other choice veggies (mushrooms in our case)
2 beef bouillon cubes
2 cans of mushroom soup
Seasonings of choice

That's all great and grand. But we added:

2 can of Miller High Life
An extra pound of meat
2 more potatoes
Brown Sugar
2 Apples
A garlic clove
lots of Love

Take that mixture of mouthwatering flavors, let it sit on some hot coals for 3 hours, stir every 20 minutes or so, and you'll be hosting the best party your mouth has ever seen. The meat dissolved before your teeth could do the work. The apple and brown sugar combined with the beer to give a sweet, cider lager flavor. Plus, the garlic and onion added an extra bite that made the love ridiculously palpable.

The following week consisted of another delicious dish: a dutch oven pot roast. Alex found this one, and I'm quite pleased he did. One huge slab of meat simmers with apple cider and barbecue sauce for about an hour. Then add in preferred veggies and simmer for another hour. Finally, to finish the whole thing off, 15 minutes of simmering with 1/2 pound of okra. Delectable.

A cast iron pot isn't the only thing we can cook in either. We took a three day journey up to Mike's cabin in Iron Mountain. There we concocted a fantastic Last Supper consisting of Alaskan Pollock, perfectly seasoned potatoes and onions, beans, and of course, a box of Franzia to wash it all down. It made for a great Holy Thursday.

Our tag-team cooking has us considering a future in the restaurant business. However, then we'd miss out on the best part of all this cooking, having fun. Once the prep work is done and the pot is on the fire, it's all about having a few beers, playing with the dogs, shooting guns, singing along with ukulele strums, and enjoying the life of the unemployed.

I don't mind this lifestyle. That is, till I run out of money.

Tap that Ash

2009-04-21T16:45:00.012-05:00

During the middle weeks of March there was definitely still snow on the ground, yet it warmed up enough to get the sap flowing in Mountain, WI.

In a successful attempt to promote more winter activities, Bear Paw Scout Camp, a summer camp with which I have quite a history, held it's first ever Bear Paw Maple Days: a day camp in which kids come up to camp and learn everything there is to know about maple syrup, from tap to bottle.

I worked on the staff, teaching all the little ones about the history of maple syrup making, how it was made by Native Americans and early European settlers. Trust me, I'm no syrup expert but after this weekend of maple magic, I feel I'm many steps closer.

For example, did you know that the sap that come out of a tree is basically sugar water? That's

right! The sugar content of the sap is only about 2-3%. However, after a lengthy boiling process, in a "sugar shack" like the one at right, the water is boiled off and you are left with the deliciousness we call maple syrup. The contents of which is about 67% sugar.

Here are some other fun facts:

Tapping does no permanent damage to the tree
It takes 40 gallons of sap to produce 1 gallon of syrup
1 tree produces 10 gallons of sap
Maple syrup won't actually freeze
Maple syrup is the first farm crop to be harvested in Wisconsin each year
and in 1905 the U.S. Pure Food and Drug Act made alteration of maple syrup with glucose illegal (bet you didn't know that one)

Oh and we showed the kiddies how a gravity taping scheme works. Instead of hanging baskets from taps, a series of tubing is used to filter the sap to a collection at the lowest point in the area. Believe me, after walking around for hours collecting 5 gallon buckets of half frozen sap, a system like this is really sweet (pun intended). But you do have to have the luxury of many maple trees in a valley-like area.

The final product at the end of the day was a delicious little bottle of homemade, fresh, delectable, maple syrup that everyone got to take home and enjoy on their pancakes, waffles, spaghetti, whatever.

Ohh and P.S. We were tapping sugar maple trees as they yield the most sap. Tapping an ash tree is just absurd. I simply couldn't resist the innuendo.

And I was Doing so Good

2009-04-21T15:23:00.008-05:00

Since being back from Europe my life has been on the less interesting side. However, I still thought I was doing pretty good on the whole blogging thing throughout January and February. Then these past two months sorta fell to the wayside.

I have lots of excuses stored up to explain my absence from this digital community, but I think the most plausible one is the fact that the past two cold rainy/sleety days have been the worst weather we've had around here in a while.

See when you're from Wisconsin, or anywhere in the midwest I guess, you don't take good weather for granted. The majority of the year brings icy road conditions and nipple-hardening temperatures that lend to months of indoor hobbies. Therefore, give any Wisconsinite a little bit of sunshine and temps above 35 degrees Fahrenheit and we'll have cook-outs and start tanning our pasty whiteness.

That's my biggest excuse. I've actually been doing stuff. Such as back in March, I went to the zoo. Hence that lovely picture of the deer like creatures. It was a splendid day, but I think I enjoyed the zoo more as a kid, when I didn't understand how endangered many of these creatures are and how human beings are the cause of it. But that's a whole other topic for a different post.

That same day a friend and I visited the bay of Green Bay. Despite the warmth and the pockets of thin ice, I decided it'd be worth walking on. Only feared for my life a couple times.

Anything else I did over the past two months that was exciting you can read about in the following posts!

Project Pink

2009-04-03T17:26:00.005-05:00

Ranging from people in their 60's who saw Pink Floyd when their music was just beginning to warp young minds, to high school stoners who wanted something else to do with their Thursday night besides play X-box, the Meyer Theatre in downtown Green Bay, WI was packed for the inaugural performance of the world's newest Pink Floyd tribute band: Project Pink.

No, they are not a breast cancer benefit band as the clueless woman at the Ticketstar outlet thought. Rather, this tribute band took the audience on a detailed re-living of a Pink Floyd experience. From the helicopter search light scanning the crowd and the general screaming, "Stand Still Laddie!" to the encore of "Run Like Hell," Project Pink nails ever aspect of the show.

The freakishly accurate solos displayed the incredible musicianship of the performers on stage, such as the guitar in "Brick in the Wall," the toms solo in "Time," and the soulful wailing of the three ladies on "Great Gig in the Sky." The emotion they all poured into numbers such as "Comfortably Numb"demonstrated the song's beautiful simplicity. As if the musicians didn't put on enough of a show on their own, the special effects made for an even grander display.

A sixteen-foot projection screen showcasing classic Pink Floyd imagery made for entertaining transitions between songs and added the extra tripped-out flare expected of a Floyd show. The light show was quite a display, especially for Green Bay. Most often we don't get light shows like that unless they are from national touring acts.

With the first set encompassing mostly songs from The Dark Side of the Moon and the second set running into The Wall, this fine production will make Green Bay proud once they get in on the road to show off to the rest of the nation, and maybe even the world.

An 80's Show Review

2009-03-29T19:24:00.007-05:00

Sometimes even the jobs you love feel like work. Here's a review from the latest performance I've been doing with Daddy D productions:

Parts of Daddy D Productions' latest original show — songs and stuff from the 1980s — are a whole lot of fun:

A nerd and a gonzo guy get in a rapture about heading out on spring break, and out comes the Beach Boys' wonderful "Kokomo." The nerd (Shawn Connelly) "dances" in a hilarious rhythm, while the frizzy-haired gonzo guy (troupe leader Darren Johnson) grooves on his own.

The Sweeney Sisters return to their alma mater to entertain 10 years later (lying by 10 years) and do loopy, giddy send-ups of "We Are the World," "Maneater" and more. Anna Snyder and Shelley Emmer romp, with Emmer soaring as a comedienne.

"The Devil Went Down to Georgia" flashes extra talents as Connelly sings and Laura Asma lets fly on the fiddle.

Because people want him to, Johnson tosses in a song with meat for his remarkable voice, and he digs into "If I Could Just Hold You Again."

The band — Jeff Hinnendael, drums; Ryan Sette, guitar; Adam Bunn, bass; and Dr. Stephen Asma, keyboards — spans the pop tunes nicely and is featured in such instrumentals as the creamy theme from the movie "Chariots of Fire."

It must be said that a lot of the '80s hits that are in this show, while catchy on the surface, are paper-thin and repetitive, not giving the performer much to do theatrically. It's not that the songs aren't likable, but they leave you wanting something more.

Multimedia bits include flashes of MTV, the full "Thriller" at intermission and a look at the cast in the '80s ranging from a photo of Johnson in a tux for a prom to nothing for Connelly, who says he probably was being nursed.

Pick an era, and Daddy D is entertaining.

-Warren Gerds, Green Bay Press Gazette

Simple Words, Bad Hips

2009-03-14T14:00:00.006-05:00

My hip flexors will be my undoing. They are the reason my senior year of high school cross country was cut short, and they are the reason why my training for the Green Bay Marathon has become more difficult with each passing day.

According to the schedule I'm following, today was supposed to be a 16 miler. I started this schedule about a month late, so I compromised and decided 10 would suffice. Six miles in, I was feeling it. I hate to say it, but getting old sucks. With that said, I know everyone over 23 is saying, "Ha, you should talk kid." But I can seriously feel a difference in my running from now and when I was running this much five years ago. As a friend my age and I were talking the other day, there's a different kind of pain that comes with running today as opposed to when I was 18. Then it was a soreness, an inconvenience, a badge of courage discomfort. Now it's a, "damn I gotta get home and ice this" kinda pain.

So six miles in my hips and knees were saying, "head home." I was on a back country road. Not many out on this gorgeous day except a woman walking her dog. We exchanged a nod and a hello. Then up ahead was an older man in his yard. I feel a little awkward coming across people at their homes' on less populated roads. Almost like I'm intruding. Plus, when I run I must look like a skinny bandit. With my black thermal spandex leggings, grey hoodie, gloves, and my black hat and black turtle fur covering everything but my eyes, I must look like an hip, evil ninja. But I always try to give a friendly hello.

However, this kind old man beat me to the punch. Seeing me all bundled up he said in his jolly way, "Not too long and we'll be in short-sleeve weather!" In between breaths I muttered, "Yup, getting there."

It was a short, banal interaction. But it was enough to take my mind off my body for a few seconds. After those seconds, when my mind was back on my run, I felt incredibly uplifted. Although my knees still ached and I felt like I had the Tinman's hips (pre-lubrication that is), I felt like I could run another eight miles.

I like friendly people.

Until Now...

2009-03-11T23:21:00.008-05:00

As if I wasn't enough of a sucker for UFOs, Loch Ness, ghosts, and all that other paranormal crap, now the History Channel has succumbed to creating series after series to study them and supposedly hunt these things down. Good move by them. I really enjoy their actual historical documentaries, but I could see how these "out of the ordinary" specials would boost the ratings. Plus, the History Channel's factual reputation gives these phenomena some sort of validity.

If you watch these shows expecting to get definitive proof of these things' existence, as the episodes' previews imply, you'll soon find that every show is a complete let down. They all start off the same way:

"For centuries, there have been myths, legends, and folklore about (insert paranormal here).

But none of the important questions could be answered, none of the vital clues discovered...

Until Now."

That phrase, Until Now. It makes me perk up like a puppy who has just figured out what the word "walk" means. It congers up thoughts in my head. "Oo oo Oo, they've finally discovered something for real this time. All the mystery is over!" An hour later, I'm left feeling disheartened and bamboozled.

They spend 55 minutes telling the stories, showing the skeptics' views, then showing the barely significant details to debunk the skeptics, followed by their display of high tech devices they will use to study the phenomena in question, and finally actually diving in to some footage of them attempting to solve the mystery in question.

The last five minutes of any episode ends up relatively the same:

"While we found no sign of (insert paranormal here) today, the evidence begs the question, 'what did farmer Dan and his wife Fran see on that warm summer evening?' As the technology becomes more advanced and the sightings become more frequent, we become more intrigued."

Or something like that. And while the audience listens to that let down of a conclusion, the credits are rapidly flashing by the bottom of the screen. Before you can blink, your being sucked into another episode of UFO hunters. Only this time, they are investigating a site at which, legend has it, a metallic vessel crash landed in 1897 and an alien body was buried in the local cemetery and the ship's debris tossed into the depths of the local well. This particular episode ended with them going down the well and finding nothing, and them x-raying the cemetery (since they weren't given permission to dig) to discover something very well could be buried there. I'm sure there is. After all, it's a bloody cemetery.

The worst part of it all, it gets me every time. Right now, I'm going on my third hour of these shows. I just struggled to turn off an episode of MonsterQuest in which Bigfoot was apparently on the loose. I know their little tricks. Every time they're about to go to commercial they tease at the really cool evidence that looks like it's coming up after the break. But in actuality won't come till the end of the episode, and once it comes, it's disappointingly not conclusive.

I guess I like to see people argue for the paranormal. I enjoy watching those smarter than I use science in order to prove science fiction, or attempt to at least. Deep down, I think I'm still a wondrous kid who, like Agents Mulder and Scully, wants to believe that the truth is out there.

A Blues Legend

2009-03-08T22:36:00.006-05:00

Sporting a track suit and a laid back attitude to match, blues guitar legend Buddy Guy played to a packed hall at the Oneida Casino tonight. Although I don't consider myself the biggest fan, there are certain musicians that any guitarist just can't pass up seeing live if the opportunity comes along.

The blues is a music genre that is quite unique, as it's label, "the blues," is also a chord progression which 80% of blues songs follow. One would assume then, that it would be repetitive and monotonous to listen to...which it can be unless you're listening to a blues master like Buddy.

Through simple yet well-executed manipulations, the same formats that have been used since the birth of blues can still be as exciting and entertaining as ever.

Buddy showed that tonight. At 72-years-old, his voice sounded strong and embodied that raspy blues quality, his guitar playing was solid yet wildly brash, and his stage presence was just as energetic as that of a much younger musician. He even walked up and down the aisles playing and singing a 10-minute-song, coming within arms length distance of my seat.

All around a great show, watching masterful bluesmen practicing their craft. Matching one another in both skill and creativity, Buddy's keyboard player is also worthy of note, as those two fed of each other the entire night. They gave the audience a blues night to remember.

You Win Some, You Lose Some

2009-03-03T00:19:00.003-06:00

Queensland Tourism failed to see my unmatched potential. But after going through the top 50 shortlisted candidates, it's easy to see why. Many on this list are media professionals, seasoned travelers, and show incredible abilities with a lifetime of experience to match.

Others not so much. It definitely seems Queensland Tourism tried to gather a pool from all over the world. Even if that meant sacrificing a couple of positions for some candidates that aren't quite up to par, at least in my opinion. Especially when they are put right next to some of the quality videos that are shortlisted, it's easy to see the difference.

I'm not going to pout or come up with excuses as to why I am not in this top 50. These people deserve to be there. But I will say this, if I had known it was perfectly cool throw copyrighted music into my video like everyone else's in this shortlist, or steal a concept from a popular television commercial, I could have at least made mine a touch more interesting. I guess Queensland Tourism just isn't interested in legality or originality. But seriously, not bitter. Don't care.

Nonetheless, here's the video I submitted. Not a winner, but I had fun with it.

If I were a betting man, which get me to a craps table and I am, here's my top two:

Male: Mark, from California

Female: Julia, from the Russian Federation

Falling Slowly

2009-03-02T18:41:00.007-06:00

Remember that last video blog which was disappointingly unentertaining? Well, I felt extremely compelled to redeem myself, so I made this:

I wanted to include some footage of the backup instrumentation (piano, strings, vocal harmonies), but conflicting video formats made that impossible. This was my first attempt at using Garageband's video feature. The next one of these will be better, promise. I'm just pumped I got the youtube wide-screen to work.

And no, I am not wearing lipstick. My lips were just rather chapped.

Choo Choo: A Moue Review

2009-02-27T10:44:00.004-06:00

Another review by yours truly. This time for a Swiss, 60's pop-rock band called Choo Choo. Worth a listen or two, even though the music isn't necessarily my favorite.

At Least the Skiers are Happy

2009-02-21T16:16:00.008-06:00

Up until December 25th, everyone in Wisconsin wishes for a White Christmas. However, once the gifts are unwrapped and the get-togethers are done, most say, "enough already with the white stuff." But the snow continues to fall well into March, sometimes even April.

This past Tuesday forecasted heavy snowfall overnight which would result in school closings Wednesday morning. But children woke up disappointed to find a light dusting that just made things look pretty again. Then early this morning the snow piled up slowly but surely, and has continued all day.

As many despondently trudge down their driveway's, shovels and snow blowers in hand, for about the hundredth time this winter, other folks are loving this day more than any other of the year.

North America's largest cross-country ski race, The American Birkebeiner, is being held today in Hayward, Wisconsin. Now in it's 36th year, this race tests a skier in just about every way possible, physically and mentally. Since I haven't put on cross-country skies since I was five, I don't have personal experience on the trails. But this lady does.

I had the pleasure of being one of the thousands of spectators watching skiers brave this incredible journey last year. At the time, I was in a journalism class and for a final project my group decided to cover the Birkie (as it is affectionately called by it's participants). The class had a twist though. It was a topic specific writing course, on food of all things. So we covered the Birkie from the perspective of what fuels these skiers on the trails.

Once I have a full winter in Wisconsin to train, I intend on tackling this 52 kilometer trail. Last year as I was filming this little documentary, I was having a blast. The overall good feelings everyone has and the help-eachother-out nature of the Birkie is contagious. Which is why every winter skiers from across the world experience a Birkie Fever relapse.

An Update

2009-02-20T17:25:00.003-06:00

Check out my Best Job in the World Application! Time is running out!

Sick and Unproductive

2009-02-17T23:49:00.008-06:00

A sinus infection has rendered me weak and unproductive for the past five days. I've had to rest my voice all day just to make it through my shows. Even then my throat felt raw and abused by the end of the night. So I really haven't been up to much lately.

This mix-tape I did for Moue Magazine made me feel like I've actually accomplished something. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go Netti Pot myself.

Dear Mr. Lincoln...

2009-02-12T01:40:00.000-06:00

Seeing as how it's your 200th birthday, I'm asking you for a favor. It seems this must be a good year for you. I figure you don't have much else to use your birthday wish on since Obama's in office and all, so would you mind throwing your birthday wish my way?

You see, I'm applying for this job. Not just any job The Best Job in the World. It's in Queensland, Australia, specifically Hamilton Island in the Great Barrier Reef. Basically, I'd chill on this island, do touristy fun stuff, and blog about it.

As you can see Mr. Former President (is that what I call you?), I've come to enjoy blogging quite a bit. By browsing through this site, you can see that I have the necessary skills to do this job and do it well. I can write decently, podcast, take some ok photos, and make embarrassing videos of myself. I know a lot of this stuff didn't exist during your presidency, but just as Barack. I'm sure he'd be more than happy to show you how all this works. After all, he has nothing better to do....

I've been dreaming of swimming in this coral reef system ever since the first time I put snorkeling goggles on. Now, I have the opportunity to live there, blog about it, and make a nice salary for my efforts.

The people at Tourism Queensland need to realize how much of an asset I would be if they hired me. I hope they can see this via my video application, but they may need some more convincing. Can you use your birthday wish to help them, and me, out? Maybe even write them a letter. Doesn't have to be quite as lengthy as the Emancipation Proclamation, but perhaps a recommendation letter from beyond the grave? That'll sell it I think.

Anywho, I hope you have a happy birthday. Oh, and thanks for the incredible job you did leading this country during some difficult times. You laid the ground work for this amazing man we have as president today. Thanks.

And I have to ask, is there a letter somewhere in the White House that you wrote addressed to the first black president? Because you had to know this day would come. I bet there is one. Barack has probably already found it. I understand. It's secret between you and him.

Again, Happy Birthday, and thanks in advance for your help.

Can't Complain about Being American,

Shawn Connelly

P.S. I didn't realize you and Darwin shared the exact same birthday! Tell him I say hello.

Kadman

2009-02-11T00:46:00.003-06:00

Before I left for London, I did a small music compilation article for Moue Magazine. I'm looking to do quite a bit more writing with them, starting with this review of Kadman's debut album Sing to Me Slower. It seems they liked the review, so perhaps you will too.

I'd post the review here, but I want Moue to get the traffic. So check it!

Chapter 6

2009-02-11T00:18:00.000-06:00

On Monday night, I went to the windy University of Wisconsin - Green Bay campus to watch a fantastic a cappella group live in action. I had seen Chapter 6 a number of years ago when they sang at UW - Stevens Point. They were just as amazing the second time around.

With crowd pleasing favorites like their "Wizard of Oz" medley/storytelling, "Change the World," and "Eleanor Rigby," it's easy to see why this group has been going strong for twelve years. Arranger and live sound producer Mark Grizzard joins the guys on stage for an autobiographical piece he wrote called "7th wheel." It's a hilarious musical look into the guy behind the guys on stage. My personal favorite is "Pinball Number Count" which any die-hard Sesame Street fan, such as myself, would recognize in a heartbeat.

On their latest album, With the Windows Down, the group nails a fantastic version of Coldplay's "Clocks," as well as croons their way through another Grizzard original, "There I Go."

As charismatic as they are vocally talented, these guys are worthy of your time if they come your way performing, and worth your money. So visit their site, buy a CD, and support musicians through this economic hardship.

Tracks on Tracks

2009-02-10T21:53:00.013-06:00

Yesterday, I started seriously training for the Green Bay Marathon. I'm relatively unemployed, have some time on my hands, I've wanted to run a marathon since starting college, and if I don't do it now, who knows if I ever will.

I've been running regularly since I first got to London, after all, Regent's Park was in my backyard. But yesterday, I penciled in my training schedule and planned out some distanced routes via mapmyrun.com.

This site is fantastic. If you are a runner, or even if you are not and just want to see how long of a walk it really is to the grocery store, this is your most helpful tool. It opened my eyes to some routes I would have otherwise never found, and even experiences I never would have had...like today's.

I mapped out a route that went down a desolate county highway that eventually met up with railroad tracks that I'd follow back home. I can see why hobos love traveling by train. The tracks are peaceful and quiet, carved right through serene wilderness. I came across deer tracks that went right along the rails and undisturbed mounds of snow. It was all so beautiful. I had a hard time keeping my eyes on the tracks to ensure I had good footing. Then as I was looking down at the ground ahead of me, I saw splotches of blood.

I glanced to my left, and there, with his head buried in the snow, was a fox. Perhaps a wolf. I couldn't really tell because of his decapitated-looking state. Stopping my run, I got down on my haunches and just stared at this poor creature. Initially, I tried to piece together his death, CSI style: a few spots of blood on the tracks, a head nuzzled into the snow, perhaps even missing. I couldn't be 100% but I'm sure human intervention had something to do with his death. Upseting is hardly the word. Poor thing.

The head buried in the snow confused me the most. Almost like he knew his time was coming and didn't want any fellow creatures to see the deathly look in his face. It was such a solemn moment, out there on the tracks with only a fox's soul to keep me company. I just stared at him for the longest time. Thinking about...I don't even know what.

I finished my run. Began to stretch and thought it'd be worth it going back to that deceased animal with my camera. A little morose, I know, but (and this is going to sound even more morose) this scene had a certain solemn beauty in itself.

I took my photos. Then heard the familiar sound of a train whistle in the distance. I ducked off the rails, got my fox in the foreground, and watched a train go by closer than I have ever seen one before. I tried to include some pictures with the following video, but the video resolution made them look awful. The music I think fits the moment. Written and recorded by good friend Jim Priniski.

Blogging: Scrap-booking on Roids

2009-02-08T23:43:00.004-06:00

Yes, I scrapbook. I am a heterosexual male, and I scrapbook. At least I used to / hopefully will be in the near future. In my closet I currently have three grocery bags, each containing a scrapbook which is either empty or near empty and all the "scraps" that I intend on adhering to the pages. Allow me to digress and reminisce for just a few paragraphs before I get to the point.

One bag consists of all the pictures, brochures, ticket stubs, and other junk that I didn't throw away from the summer of 2005, when I worked as an entertainer at Idlewild Theme Park in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. I played three guitar sets, two small group shows, and three nightly main stage shows a day. Plus every so often I had to do "live action" theatre with kids in the "Wild West" section of the park. We made the wee ones into deputy sherifs and had them help wrangle up some bank robbers. There were about twelve of us entertainers. We all lived in a ski chateau on the highest peak in the state. We were all in our early 20's and enjoyed a good time, so a good time we had.

Another bag contains all the accouterment for completing a scrapbook from the next summer which I spent in Maui, Hawaii. I worked as the arts & crafts director at a Boy Scout Camp in the West Maui Mountains. This little gig snuck up on me unexpectedly. The job was mentioned to me in passing by a scouter in the Wisconsin area. A completed application and a few emails later, I was on my way to Maui. Granted the job didn't pay the best, but after a couple months on Maui, I had completely broke even, including the flight. Not bad. The best part of the summer, though, was hanging out with my old friend and first ever boss, Scott, as he is now living on Maui with his wife and daughter. The beauty and attitude of this island is intoxicating. As is the feeling I get when I tell people, "yea, I lived in Maui...."

The third bag is even heavier than the first two, but it's content spans twice as much time. During college, when I moved into my first house at the beginning of my junior year, I began a scrapbook to document all the good times and a few of the bad. It's a great representation of the hard work I did at UWSP as well as a look into the intense amount of fun my roommates and I had at 1525 Briggs. This scrapbook is more complete because I tried the "create-it-as-it's-happening" approach. This method worked wonderfully until, just like my blogging at times, I got way behind. I have catching up to do.

Now, even though I have a little extra time on my hands, I do not feel compelled to complete these books of memories. The reason why is this little site of mine.

I took out the "college years" scrap book last week and attempted to put a dent into it. Nothing happened. I am now much more interested in this digital version of my life/memories. Paper, scissors, and glue no longer tickle my fancy like they used to. But it's easy to see why.

Lately, I've been reading a lot of blogs, friends' and some randoms as well. It seems to me that a blog has so much more to offer than a big book of scraps. Not only can you post your thoughts and words, but pictures, video, and audio as well. I'd like to see a book that holds all that (besides a MacBook....ha, get it?) A blog is also viewable by whoever you want to see it. Which for me is all the more motivation to do it. Sure, you can share a scrapbook with guests when they come over. But more often than not, I think that a guest feels obligated to look through my memories and he/she doesn't necessarily enjoy it. With a blog, on the other hand, whoever can read it whenever he/she wants, and if no one reads it, really that's fine too. But in the meantime, I'll just keep writing as if someone out there actually is reading.

So there, I love blogging. Is that the thesis statement I was aiming for with this post.... I'm really not sure. That's the other thing about blogging, well for me at least, it's total stream of conscience. For that, I apologize, but that probably won't change.

Though, I will add that I'm not completely giving up on the art of scrap-booking. I'll find the motivation to do those three books sooner than later. I think it's important that everyone keep in mind the physical world that we all once functioned in, whether it's completing a scrap-book or sitting down and actually writing a letter. It weirds me out sometimes this think of all the time and effort I've put into this digital life of mine, and to consider that with one server crash, it could all be gone. However a wise man once said:

What takes a lifetime to build can be destroyed in a night, build anyway.

This Christian Bale Thing

2009-02-05T22:50:00.004-06:00

It's been all over the internet and the celebrity talk shows. Christian Bale's tirade towards his director of photography Shane Hurlbut. I don't much enjoy celebrity gossip but I do want to comment on this little rant filled with more cussing than a hockey locker room.

Bale, an iconic actor who makes more money with one movie than the average American makes in a life time, can't simply act through a lighting designer walking around a little bit behind the camera. Keep in mind that Hurlbut was only doing his job, which is to make Bale look good.

It sickens me to think that there are divas in the world like Bale. Hard to please actors are always spoofed about, but until this audio leak, I never thought it was all that bad. Thanks Christian for proving me wrong.

So, I had no reservations playing with this audio clip and combining it with an earlier work of Bale's. Who knew that this innocent little Newsie would grow up to be such a "prick," which is one of Bale's choice words throughout his rant.

WARNING: Explicit Content (which is all Bale's fault, not mine)

This mix, however, puts my little creation to shame. If you like clubbing music and lots of swearing, download it.

WARNING: More Explicit Content (again, Bale's fault)

Briggs Street

2009-02-04T11:03:00.003-06:00

Situations like this were not uncommon at 1525 Briggs Street....and I miss it.

Four Stars for Country

2009-02-02T23:52:00.007-06:00

Here's a review of my latest performance with Daddy D productions, written by Warren Gerds, critic for the Green Bay Press Gazette:

Darren Johnson and a countrified Daddy D Productions lineup has a particularly entertaining show going in "Classic Country."

A lively audience that cheered practically every song and skit on opening night Friday added oomph.

The show opens in high gear with "Rocky Top" and continues with zip from there.

For a sample of the variety, here's a winning sequence:

After a comic bit as NASCAR types, Shawn Connelly as bit dim racecar driver and Doug Dachelet as a pit commentator romp through "Beer Run."
Johnson strolls out as a scruffy guy pushing a broom to drawl-sing the spoof, "King of the Road."
Anna Snyder and Dachelet bicker a bit as a live-in couple to set up "You're the Reason Our Kids Are Ugly."
Changing pace, Shelly Emmer pours on glamour in a lovely gown as she croons "You've Been Talking in Your Sleep."
Johnson returns as buck-toothed Skip Church, the Sunday morning drive time DJ on WMOO Radio, No. 1 in Krakow. Out from the astounding character fly hilarious jokes, stories and rooster squawks.

In the band are Ryan Thompson, who is nimble on guitar and mandolin and in song; Ryan Sette, bass; Jeff Hinnendael, drums; and Jeni Funk, keyboards.

The ensemble scores with good stuff in country songs of 30 or more years ago — corn, love, dance zest, melancholy, comedy, faith, harmony, warmth, fun, heartbreak and more.

Big pluses are Johnson and Thompson for their versatility and Connelly for his flair for building a story into a song, such as "Kaw-liga."

And yes, in that picture I am wearing a snowmobile suit...

Shut Up, the Commercials are on

2009-02-01T21:23:00.007-06:00

Every Superbowl party has its share of spectators that care more for the unique million-dollar adverts than the game itself. In all honesty, I was one of them. That is until the fourth quarter. Tough break Cardinals.

But this year I feel advertisers did more than just razzle dazzel us and try to make us laugh. I think they tried to educate us as well....

Pedigree’s adoption drive taught us that dogs truly do make the best pets:

Budwiser has had some of the best ad campaigns in recent history, from frogs to the articulate Wazzup, but now they show us that dogs can train horses.

Who isn’t going to buy a bag of Doritos and try this:

Cars.com showed us all how even the most confident amongst us, like David Abernathy, have issues with purchasing a car:

E*trade displayed that this economy is effecting everyone, especially babies:

Sobe taught us that changing your image so you fit-in with every other sports drink is ok, it’s called peer pressure:

Bridgestone taught us that it’s easy to get your tires jacked, even on the moon.

Coincidences

2009-01-28T16:07:00.019-06:00

Throughout college, I never did much pleasure reading. If I had the extra time to read, I felt extremely obligated to review for that biology exam, re-read the chapter on chord voicings, or review that German lieder for tomorrow's performance just once more before I went to sleep. Reading for my own enjoyment just didn't happen for close to four years of my life. Sad.

Within the past year and some change, however, I always seem to find myself immersed in a book that more than coincidentally coincides ridiculously well with wherever I am in my life. It all started with an anonymous stranger handing me Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist.

On October 12 of 2007, I spoke as the student body representative at the naming ceremony of our newly renovated University Center. The student body chose to name it after former Wisconsin Governor and former UWSP chancellor, Lee Sherman Dreyfus. He was known as the students' chancellor, a man who could always be found walking around campus with his bright red vest, willing and ready to talk with students about issues important to them. He was truly on their level. When he first came to the University in the late 70's, his inaugural address to the student body started: "Hello, my name is Lee Sherman Dreyfus. Yes, my initials are LSD, and I'd like you all to come on a trip with me."

Due to his rapidly failing health, he wasn't able to attend the ceremony. But it was imperative that we held the ceremony while he was still alive. My speech addressed Gov. Dreyfus and what he had done for the University and the state, as well as addressed the student involvement in the planning of this multi-million dollar project.

At the reception following the ceremony, an older gentlemen walked up to me. He said, "I worked closely with Gov. Dreyfus during his time here. He would have been extremely proud and touched to had heard your speech today. I want to give you this..." That's when he handed me a copy of The Alchemist. "I can tell from that speech that you'll be going places. That's what this book is about." He signed the inside: "Shawn, listen to your heart, MC Graw, Colorado.

I placed the book on my shelf with all the other I'll-get-around-to-them-someday books. There it sat until December when I started packing for my trip to Thailand. A group of 13 UWSP students were about to embark on a month journey to work with at risk Thai children. I was on my way out of my room when I looked at my bookshelf and hastily grabbed the book. "Meh, I need something to read during this 22 hour flight." Having no idea what this book was even about it turned out to be the best read for a globe trotting adventure.

It's about a shepherd boy named Santiago and his journey. Throughout the read, I couldn't help but compare myself to the boy, as I too was making an incredible journey at the time. Besides the cliche "the journey is the reward message," the book is full of lessons that I will carry with me forever:

"I don't live in either my past of future. I'm interested only in the present. If you can concentrate always on the present, you'll be a happy man. Life will be a grand party for you, a grand festival, because life is the moment we're living right now"

"The fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. No heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams"

"You don't have to understand the desert: all you have to do is contemplate a simple grain of sand, and you will see in it all the marvels of creation."

"Time is another of these things we need to help ourselves to go through life, but it does not exist"

The most relevant part of this book for me and my journey was it's talk of a universal language. A way the world communicates with one another, not via tongues and sounds but via a fabric we are all woven into. Working with the children at DEPDC, I truly heard this language, as none of us students spoke Thai, yet we came to develop some of the tightest bonds with the Thai children over the short time we were there.

My other book coincidences aren't quite as deep, yet still just as relevant to my life.

I came home from Thailand and literally the next day was thrown into the classroom. Culture shock. I just returned from a month in a country that no where near resembles the states, teaching at a school where the children would otherwise be in forced labor or sex slavery. What is the point of sitting in this classroom when there are real problems in the world which my time and effort could be going towards? I couldn't stand the thought of pointless classrooms, until I found myself studying close to the exact same thing in two completely different classes.

Geography and journalism. I used to think they had nothing in common, besides the fact that one can write about the other. My journalism class was topic specific focusing on food and travel writing. Here's where the liberal thinking of UWSP got the best of me. My geography class basically revolved around how the spread of humanity has desecrated our planet. One such issue is the over-production of, well, everything to sustain, well, everyone. Food production ties in of coarse. From over-fishing to over-farming and depleting nutrients in the soil, humans are using more than mother earth can give us. While I was learning the technical side of this from my geo class, my journalism teacher had us reading Michael Pollan's The Omnivore's Dilemma and The United States of Arugula by David Kamp, both of which addressed food production on a more personal level.

Now, I've always been a closeted anti-establishment kind of guy. But these two classes simultaneously bombarded me with a "here's how shitty the human race is" kind of mentality (in geo we screened some incredible documentaries, including Who Killed the Electric Car, it'll make you hate corporate America, if you don't already). So if you want a discussion sometime on capitalism, our environment, and the food we eat, I'll be happy to share some heated opinions.

On a more positive side though, my journalism class also got me to read Garlic and Sapphires by Ruth Reichl. As a New York Times food critic, her incredible writing has me thinking about food more than I ever thought I would. Plus, her writing really inspired me to write more. Now, I have this blog that I feel obligated to write on all the time......

Kidding, this is kinda fun.....

Following that spring semester, I immersed myself in The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. As if Ruth hadn't inspired me enough to write, Randy was the writer who started it all. While this book of little short lessons should not have taken me all summer to read, I wasn't in a hurry to get through it. I tried to take each little lesson to heart.

Getting around Europe, I let Rick Steves enlighten me to the places I was visiting. Better than a text book, but not quite a leisure read, but rather informative in a fun way. This book wasn't so much a coincidence as it was an "ok, I want to know about the places and things I'm going to see." However, my next read was coincidental all over again.

I kept seeing subway posters for The Whole Truth by David Baldacci, and being stranded at Luton airport for six hours finally brought me to buy this international thriller about a second cold war. This read was extremely fun because the action takes place all over Europe, particularly in the places I had just been on my continental tour. It was the first time I could say "sweet, I've been there." Since being back home, I turn on the telly or read an article and say "sweet, I've been there" quite often.

The tube and bus rides get long without something to read, and sometimes you just can't stand those evening newspapers. So as soon as my flatmate was done with The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini I snatched it up. Again, having no idea what it was about, I dove in. The book takes an in depth look into the life of modern Afghanistan while following a boy from childhood to his adulthood exile into America. This book opened my eyes to the lives of the people around me while I worked in the London neighborhood of Harlesden, where I was one of the only white people. The food, lifestyles, and all around culture described by Hosseini mirrored what was going on all around me.

After The Kite Runner, I stuck to my iPod and evening newspapers to entertain my commutes.

Finally, to what I'm reading now: Gods Behaving Badly by Marie Phillips. This saucy little tale is about Greek gods living mortal lives in modern day London. Yet again, another pleasant surprise. As I was reading last night at a little coffee shop in Green Bay, there was a scene that took place "somewhere between Euston and Kings Cross." For a visual, I pulled the Tube map out of my jacket pocket, as it has been there since my return home. Just like in The Whole Truth, I can read along and say, "sweet, I've been there."

I try to look for these little coincidence in life, however lately, I haven't had to look hard. They are in black and off-white on the pages of the books that I happen to come by. The word coincidence, though, has such a benign connotation. I feel they are little messages, reminders, or signs from the universe around us...from God, if you will. As I learned from The Alchemist, there is a fabric that binds us all, the world and the universe it exists in. If we can learn to listen to this web of our lives, I think we'd be all the better for it.

And speaking of coincidences, I was thinking a lot today about what I am doing, where I'm going in the next few months. Then in the middle of writing this I received a message from a friend wondering if I wanted to work with him in Alaska.... I'm listening and the message is coming in loud and clear.

Back in the Saddle Again

2009-01-25T23:56:00.007-06:00

This past Thursday I went back to my roots and did what I did best, rocked.

It's been quite some time since I've gotten in front of an audience with a guitar, drums, my bass, and some raw voices. I had the opportunity to sit in with Magna Cum Loud for a gig in Winona, Minnesota. Their bassist couldn't make it. So I soaked up his glory, along with cheap drinks and a free hotel room.

Cum Loud is an adrenaline filled rush of rock straight to your temporal lobe. Being on stage with them for that hour and a half was certainly an experience for all eight people that were listening....

Despite the attendance, the gig revitalized my rock senses that I've missed so much over the years. Since Thursday, I've been playing too much guitar and looking for more opportunities to get on a stage with it.

One of which will be this Tuesday at Ned Kelly's in Green Bay. I'll be sitting in with an open jam, so if you are in the area, swing on by. If you're not around, this is just the beginning. I must satisfy this craving.

America Celebrates

2009-01-20T16:59:00.008-06:00

With all the excitement revolving around our new president, it got me thinking of all the other times I've celebrated America, such as this past Fourth of July...

WARNING: May contain some inappropriate language content.

We're an Obamanation

2009-01-20T12:14:00.010-06:00

Thoughts from Inauguration Day

I popped over to fellow blogger and good friend Will’s house this morning to watch the inauguration. It was nice being with another writer as we watched with our laptops at the ready. While he was writing for Moue Magazine and somewhat live blogging the whole time, I posted just a few thoughts as I watched:

I cringed a little when the boos for Bush started resonating throughout the crowd in D.C. After all, the guy did serve our country as a leader during some difficult times, so perhaps the American people should have showed a little respect. On the other hand, he created a lot of those difficulties himself. Perhaps the singing of “Hey, hey, hey good-bye” was a better audios to our former President…

However, props to the President’s Own USMC band for drowning out whatever boos were there.

To be honest though, inside I was booing for Bush just like the majority of America.

____________________________________________________________________

Looking at Obama’s face as he walked down the corridor towards the podium, Will and I couldn’t help but to wonder what was going through his mind. From the stone emotional look on his face, I think his head must be in utter bombardment of emotions, thoughts, and mental preparation for his speech ahead. Since I believe more people will be watching this one speech at this one moment than any other speech from an American President in history.

____________________________________________________________________

From Diane Feinstein:

“Real and necessary change in our country”

From Rick Warren:

“United by our commitment to freedom”

____________________________________________________________________

John Williams. As if he hasn’t defined iconic symbols enough with his movie scores, he now has defined a presidential office with his arrangement of Simple Gifs. Brilliantly performed and composed, the piece started disjointed and in disarray, however came together via the recognizable melody of Simple Gifts played, not coincidentally, by a black clarinetist.

____________________________________________________________________

From Barack Obama himself

“Humbled by the task before us”

“Values are old and true. [They have been] the quiet forces of progress”

“A new era of responsibility.....duties that we seize gladly”

The political analysts summed up his speech with the phrase Obama himself has used time and again: We are summoned to responsibility.

____________________________________________________________________

Perhaps the most interesting image, to me at least, was at the very end of the ceremony. Bush and Obama standing next to each other on capitol hill. Obama wearing a red tie, Bush wearing a blue tie. I believe Obama said something to the effect of, “we are not just a collection of red and blue states….”

Then president Obama and vice-president Biden stood and watched as Marine One flew former president Bush out of Americans' lives, while the crowd again sang “hey, hey, hey, goodbye”

____________________________________________________________________

And I never noticed Barack was left handed until today.

Country....

2009-01-19T12:30:00.009-06:00

I'll be honest, I've never really enjoyed country music. That is until I got involved with Daddy D productions out at the SC Grand in DePere, WI. Now, I truly despise country....

Ha, kidding!!! It's a brilliantly fun show! What don't believe me?!?

Look at me. Look how excited I am....

Look how....country I am

Wow, this picture makes me want to throw up.....

Anywho, in case that poster is a bit too small to read, here at the details. Come check it out!

6:30 Coocktails

7:00 Dinner

8:00 Show

Come for the dinner and the show, or just the show!

Preferably just the cocktails and the show. That's when it's the funniest.

(yes, funniest, not most funny)

January 30th - February 21st

Matinees February 11th & 21st

See show listings at left for complete details

Yesterday, I Went Running

2009-01-16T16:57:00.007-06:00

For a successful run, always start with clean teeth.