Year In Videos: 2008

This has been a wonderful vacation so far. Now I'm settled in Yakima with family, every one of them present: The Winslows, Tanners, Fosters, Lamberts, and Taylors - they're all here joining in the television playbook of Christmas cliches. Meanwhile, as Mercedes burrito-debris continues to course through my veins, I thought I'd compile a short list of music videos that caught my attention this year. In the past I'd make fleeting mental notes of favorite films and videos, but for 2008 I decided to take a more active approach and actually write something down to reflect on later.

So here we go. A personal list of videos that I enjoyed this year:

M83: "Kim and Jessie" Dir. Eva Husson


MGMT: "Electric Feel" Dir. Ray Tintori


No Age: "Eraser" Dir. Andy Bruntel


Ladyhawke: "Back Of the Van" Dir. Kinga Burza


Beck: "Gamma Ray" Dir. Autumn de Wilde


The BPA: "Toe Jam" Dir. Keith Schofield


Ratatat: "Mirando" Dir. E*VAX

The Cosmic Key

photo courtesy of Stefanie Warmouth

Bellingham,

We've got some catching up to do.

Fondly,
David

Previously On The New Guys

Series Finale?

After months of continuous speculation swirling about Internet message boards, I can now safely confirm that network producers have successfully negotiated for an upcoming winter sweeps mini-series of the beloved, The New Guys.

Although I can't divulge too much information surrounding the structure of the mini-series, I am at liberty to reveal that the first installment will reunite several series regulars five months subsequent to the series finale. Fans faithful to the show can still expect The New Guys to find themselves amid plot lines concurrent to actual news items covered by the national media.

Thanks for your continued support. Please stay tuned for more details.

"We have to go back!"

Wednesday Morning In Your House

Holy potatoes. I should feel astonished. It's the last week of the semester, but somehow it doesn't quite seem that way. The rest of campus bears a different sentiment. Mobbed computer labs, congested libraries - these small products of life escaped me long after I signed up to sell books for over a year. Some of these kids need to understand that academic life is not to be confused with reality. I'm talking to you, freshman. You're privileged to have some borrowed time on your hands before enlisted to work at the local bag factory. Sometimes I'm tempted to pull up a chair next to some unassuming student and grab his or her pockmarked face and say, "stay here... stay as long as you can."

A lot of transitioning happened on the way to make it to the end of this first leg of grad school. Some of these pivotal adjustments came from the film project I made and the others that I've assisted with. I never really did a proper follow up to the production that took place. Perhaps some stories are best shared in person. Big lesson of the semester that will carry over into post-grad work: You are incapable of controlling every aspect of your plans before a shoot.

My lead actress unexpectedly had to drop out in the middle of first day preparations. What to do? Step in and take her spot and make appropriate arrangements in between directing the crew. Welcome to the Biz. No time to pout. Fortunately, I managed to complete a coherent film utilizing film stock. What a remarkable feeling to break free of the digital camera for once. Earlier I collected the rest of my rushes to present before break. While reviewing some footage in the editing suite I took some random stills to post here:

I'm holding both a croquet mallet and an umbrella and the refrigerator stored around four or five gallons of milk. I can't say I deliberately set out to include that much milk as part of the mise-en-scéne for the kitchen, but if it gives the film some edge I'm completely on board.

Werner Herzog Eats His Shoe

My friend Kayla.

The semester is nearly complete and I'm in Boston having celebrated a pleasant Thanksgiving with Jason, Bethy, and her family. Caught a screening of Milk and tomorrow a game of squash and more sights of the city. Before going to bed I watched Werner Herzog on Late Night With Conan O'Brien.

Losing a bet to Errol Morris.

Ballast

Ballast is the film debut of editor-director-writer Lance Hammer. The film is set in the Mississippi Delta and observes (almost exclusively) three family members affected by a suicide. Hammer has been touring behind the film which earned him a best director award at the Sundance Film Festival.

Here's a look at the trailer:

The preferable quicktime version of the trailer here: Ballast

Last night I found myself amid a modest crowd of
spectators in the Westcott Theater where Hammer screened the film and stuck around to hold a Q&A session. The film is largely improvised and performed by non actors who were encouraged to spin their own idioms around Hammer's dialogue. There is no real point of view from any of the characters. Hammer explained that he was more interested in the tone and
authenticity of the location.

"I had been traveling back there for ten years - I was drawn to it."

There is a familiar small-town lull condition to Ballast in which characters wander and suffer in silence, but I'd argue that this film is a cut above art-house cliché. It's really quite interesting in that it conveys an unusual sense of gentleness through its bankrupt atmosphere, shot entirely on location in Mississippi. It helps that it's beautifully photographed, too. From the start these three characters each harbor their own distinct resentment of life, but by the third act there is a smart, amicable, and completely believable gesture in the plot that demonstrates a lot of maturity in Hammer's writing.

If you notice Ballast playing in your local cinema one of these days I'd suggest giving it a try. It successfully strays from most of the indie mumblecore movement that has dominated this past decade.

Jenni Potts "Another Way" Video

Inadvertently, without any expectation of posting the Potts video , I delivered a presentation this week that touched on DIY culture and the persistent rise of the self-taught, self-promoted artist. I showed clips from past projects and relished the opportunity to spotlight some of the slapstick methods we undertook as a collaborative team back home. There's been ongoing discussion over the amateur and the devaluation of the professional in the advancement of the digital media environment. Information is completely accessible and at unprecedented speeds. It's a thought that I find myself marveling over from time to time. Above all, it was gratifying to activate some conversation in the classroom with something honest and spirited from my personal attempts in creating art.

And so this entry conveniently bookends some thoughts I posted three months ago as I began my departure from Bellingham. Tomorrow I'm off creating another project, but finding myself within some very different circumstances. We'll see.

Enough already.

In true DIY fashion, here is the official music video for the Jenni Potts track "Another Way" off her debut album Take This And Go. The video was shot in one morning for a duration of four maybe five hours using some lamps and a curtain rod. It also has dogs n' stuff.

Jenni Potts - Another Way *note Mike Wilson cameo

Special thanks to Karl Peterson for managing to export this video into its proper format.

Deafening High Fives Heard 'Round The World

LET'S ROCK!

(Congratulations, America.)

America Now

Did you hear?

Our hero Brad Neely is back and picked up for twelve installments of a new one-off series called America Now. It is airing right now exclusively on adultswim.com every weekday until the election. On Nov. 1st-4th adultswim the tv channel will also broadcast these shorts.

Laughter is the best medicine.

thanks [adultswim].

EXT. HOUSE - DAY

Gmar Chatimah Tova. It's Yom Kippur and I'm sorry, but I'm not fasting. No disrespect, but I must utilize this day off. There's work to be done! And food is too big a driving force for completing work as you may know. I "gotta have my pops," as they say.

Yesterday I went location scouting at my friend Sarah's house for my film. What a huge help she's been. Over a week ago I was fortunate enough to run into her shooting pictures for class when she agreed to let me use her home as the principle site for my project. Here are some pictures of the house that i will likely use for the shoot:

The story calls for two women in their thirties that can pass off as sisters. Know anyone in Upstate, NY that can act?

The New York Film Festival is wrapping up it's festivities this weekend. All week some of my classmates and I excitedly planed to carpool and leave tomorrow. Given that Nuit Blanche in Toronto fell through the previous weekend, I was hopeful this jaunt to the city would succeed. Unfortunately, plans changed and our driver recently decided he couldn't find the time to go after all. Saddies. Some interesting screenings from Paris and Japan going on that I was curious about. I also wanted the chance to see Darren Aronofsky speak about his filmmaking process live.

Having some technical hiccups exporting the Potts video. I feel bad delaying it for Jenni and the Clickpop team. I'm working on resolving the issue. Here's a screen grab teaser for you:


Halloween plans?

Can I Borrow A Feeling?

Tomorrow morning I'm heading back to Syracuse after an uplifting weekend in Boston with Jason and Bethy. Guys, thanks for hosting me and I'm glad our band, Mozart's Ghost, managed to kick start a massive scale world tour.

Favorite Rock Band 2 songs so far:

• Bon Jovi - Livin' On A Prayer
• Metallica - Battery
• Judas Priest - Painkiller
• Boston - More Than A Feelin'
• Pearl Jam - Alive
• Foo Fighters - Everlong

It felt great to escape Syracuse even for a brief while. I needed a break from isolation and after developing a habit of talking and negotiating trivial things with myself. Place George Costanza in a grocery store and imagine overhearing his internal debate deciding whether to pay five dollars on a half-pound sliced package of Muenster cheese and you have an example of what I mean.

But my stay was fun and I managed to get to know Bethy more and meet her lovely family including her adorable one-year old niece, Kayla.

This week is pretty busy with the beginning of October wedged right in the middle of all the work. The 15th will mark the midterm point of the semester. Nuts.

family.

Oh, hey, Thursday is going to rule.

The Theme: Plans

Yes, the economy.

If you have a moment, here's an article from CNN that serves up a clear explanation regarding our federal government's overwhelming bailout proposal to members of Congress: Where things stand

"It is a big package because it's a big problem."
- President Bush

Outside my paranoia over our country's future, I managed to sneak in some minor travel plans in the upcoming time ahead. If all goes well I will be heading into Boston for an extended weekend next week to visit with my brother. Rock Band 2, good food, a lot of wise cracks in store...

Video art friend Katie invited me to join a group that's planning a trip up north to Toronto for an all-night cultural arts festival called Nuit Blanche. From sunset at 6:52 pm on Saturday, October 4, to sunrise on Sunday, October 5, Toronto will explode into 155 destinations of exhibits and projects all around the city. Sounds fantastic. Here's a link to the 2008 program here.

Work continues to progress on the school front. I proposed a more in-depth approach to my short film concept and managed to activate some good advice and suggestions between classmates. I think it will turn out beautiful once I can secure a proper location.

A couple more things to note.

This is my new favorite attack ad from Mccain's campaign:

how disrespectful.

Here's a funny article I found on The New Yorker's site in the Cartoon Lounge section. Apparently there was a cartoon-off between Michael Showlater and Farley Katz a short while ago. Check it out here.

Mr. Deeds And The Fall Arrival

Too long of a hiatus. My apologies to the few keeping up to date with me.

I've passed the one month mark by over a few days now. I'm still here exploring the quirks of the city and my program, but finding myself more immersed in my own world. I watch more films and stay focused on work because when you are alone you have more freedom to observe and analyze at a comfortable pace. That's one critical thing this experience has taught me so far. It's a productive habit I want to continue to form.

Class and work are in full swing. I have my first treatment prepared and have begun to expand on my project that I am supposed to start production on in about a month. Once I flush out more ideas I'd like to bring it up in a post and maybe workshop it with some of you guys to see what you think. Speaking of which, the Potts video is almost done. My goal is to post that at some point next week. I've delayed work on it for too long. Time to wrap things up. And hey, speaking of music videos, Keith Schofield, the director who I helped as a production assistant last summer, posted one of his new works recently. It's for the track "Move" by CSS. Another fun concept and exceptional editing from an innovated director.

Business aside, I was fortunate enough to have another visitor here. Mr. Deeds made it to town and it was nothing short of extraordinary.

Proof.

I introduced her to my new Hang Zone, 2nd Story Books, Greek Row, and a bunch of fine eats around town. On our last night together we joined my pals Jeff and Ann for dinner. Before we made it to the restaurant, we were stopped by an excitable young man on a bicycle asking for donations for his rap/reggae cd. He handed us all copies of his album, Expo Zee Doe, recently cut locally. After we informed him we didn't have money to give any donations and declined, he took his CDs back out of our hands. He did however change his mind last minute and gave Deeds a copy. "I want you to have this. You're very pretty. I wanna put you in my video. Give me a call. The number is on the front here. Expo Zee Doe."

The Syracuse underground scene. Stay tuned.

It sure was no fun to say goodbye again after such a wonderful time, but the stakes are different now. Everyone is active and assembling plans for the fall season and beyond. This will be a healthy change, my friends. We will congregate soon, discuss a spectrum of topics, and celebrate Obama's victory as President. A most triumphant reunion indeed.

Out-of-this-world even...

"This Summer...He's Back..." Don LaFontaine 1940-2008

Don LaFontaine, the man with the voice that commanded our attention throughout thousands of promotional spots, has passed on. Don holds a special place in my heart as a man who's authoritative, guttural voice previewed infinite television spots, commercials, and movie trailers throughout my life. Not to mention I personally credit him for the majority of my voice over humor that I have parodied and beat to death for just about all of my friends. You can read about Don and his untimely death on CNN's site: "In a world..."

I've included some clips here. The first few are more biographical and focus on Don's unrivaled career. It's amazing how much work he's accumulated over the years. The last is a stand-up bit from comedian Pablo Francisco impersonating Don's unmistakable voice...

Enjoy:

The Warehouse

Damn my inability to keep a camera on me at all times.

I'm going to illustrate this post by explicitly using clips or picture references from outside sources...

I've spent the past few consecutive nights hanging out with the same people - grads from the photography and video art programs, specifically. They have undoubtedly made this transition easier by actively pursuing me to hangout. I half-expected to fall into some sort of clique after getting here. It's natural. Though, I couldn't have anticipated how fast it would approach. You are more or less surrounded by your colleagues throughout the entire week during seminars or cinematheque so a shake up in any static activity is imperative. Summer breaks, new people, etc.

Last night we headed downtown to meet with Chris and the group's other friend, Guy, who rents a room in a large building dubbed "The Warehouse." The place is essentially a large warehouse with some remodeled rooms located on each level. Each one of the many levels has a ridiculous amount of open space for the tenants to do whatever it is they desire. It's their community area that they are allowed to customize.

I'm going to walk you through this place as best I can because I want you, my reader, to truly understand how much of a spectacle it was to visit. This clip from 1990's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will serve as my preface:

Note: Sam Rockwell as Head Thug

Ok, save for a bunch of arcade games, twelve-year-olds drinking Dad's Rootbeer, playing hold'em, and Master Tatsu looming around challenging fights, there was an amalgamation of absurd toys. It was as if a large Boys and Girls Club center finally buckled under the pressure of the most angsty of teens compelled to take over.

I jammed on what appeared to be a 25-piece drum kit, rode wheelchairs and scooters in huge square formations, skateboarded on a small ramp, played ping pong, swung on a swing set, played with a leaf blower, etc . Those were just a few of the options I took advantage of. The real beauty was in the decor. Multitudes of chairs, televisions, projector screens, lamps, mannequins, tables, all from various time periods, occupied, but not completely filled, just the one level I was on. All of it was neatly arranged for guests to be fully enraptured by.

You could turn the ordinary:














Into a true video armageddon:











Honestly, even Rufio would jump at the chance to pay rent here and he thinks all grown-ups are pirates...

Film School

Shaffer Art Building

Class began today with a collective of first, second, and third year grad students. One requirement course is a graduate filmmaking seminar that is structured for students to create and experiment with film or video, and to evaluate and critique each others work. Early into the first several weeks, we conduct discussions based on treatments we bring in for short film ideas, and introduce some of the work we've already produced. What are we trying to pursue? What methods have we adopted and from where? It's an academic environment that applies heavy critical thinking and discourse in order achieve some sort of creative production. The process essentially repeats in a nonthreatening, informal way. It's very inviting.

I have now been acquainted with all of the faculty and film students. The two other first year grads are enjoyable and less timid each time we meet. I will be working closely with them as we familiarize ourselves with lab equipment and course curriculum. Sook Hyun Kim is from Korea and practices documentary work. Ying-Chin Wang is interested in teaching film and has studied independently in China. Aside from class, we will have equipment workshops, the first being this friday, learning the Arriflex SR1 Super 16 kit.

The film cage is where I report for work. Twice a week I maintain and properly check-out equipment to grads and undergrads in film and computer art. All of the equipment is at my disposal. Quite convenient. John, my supervisor, is also a bit of a crack up. Over beers, he discussed his thoughts on the film program, his career and his family. As it turns out, he's very into the Pacific Northwest and has frequented Snoqualmie Falls on a number of occasions with his wife. John also extended an informal invitation to work on set on two projects this summer, both shot exclusively here in town. Germ is a send-up of Zombie horror films with a modest budget that he is set to direct. Hotel Syracuse, is a more an elaborate thriller-drama under the helm of an Israeli director, Haim Bouzaglo. Supposedly, the producers of Hotel Syracuse are in negotiations to land John Malkovich and Martin Sheen as two of the leads. I've yet to get started and job opportunities seem to be coming around already.

Otherwise, I'm maintaining well now that I've surpassed my limbo state. Emily made an incredible cameo this past weekend by coming to visit. We bonded over Ms. Pac-Man, garlic naan bread, and beers.

File Photo

We sat in 2nd Story Books, read magazines with our bevs and browsed books. On the way back, I declared to Emily that I had found my new favorite spot to visit. Although we didn't get our 2am Insomnia Cookie order in, we managed to squeeze in some time for Wii Sports. It was damn good seeing those Miis again. Emily visiting is a true testament to her loving character. Dodging my way around a room packed full of bros and bro-girls just won't be as funny for a while.

Kervin Brisseaux

When I reported last Thursday of the progress being made, I underestimated the speed at which it was developing. It's enjoyable and slightly odd to find myself in the constant company of architect students. They are already a year into bonding over the stress of school work and social aspects of Syracuse. Yet, Kervin and I seem to have the strongest rapport. He is charismatic and has an exuberant personality that tends to grow when we discuss personal, creative work. Last night we hung out with his roommates, also architect grad students and most of whom I already met. He showcased some pieces from his online portfolio, but we didn't get a moment to jump into in an in depth talk. I thought I'd share with you some of his talents in Photoshop and Illustrator:

You can find out more about Kervin and his work here.

He explained that he has been practicing graphic art and illustration for years as a hobby, but would ultimately like to incorporate it into his profession as an architect. All of his techniques with Adobe software continues to be reinforced with self discipline and independent learning. It's inspiring. He talked of a online collective he'd like to start that spans a variety of expressive mediums. Perhaps this could lead to some really constructive work between us.

In addition to artistic pursuits, we find a lot of common ground in our appreciation for Lost, Battlestar, and Rock Band - shit that opens up a world of conversation.

Treasures

I'm glad you're nearby, Ithaca. You have a lot of qualities about a small town that I enjoy. You're seemingly pretty liberal, have a flourishing artistic community, and from what I observed, a proponent of strong sustainable values.

This past Saturday began with an eruption of rain and thunder. After Andrew entered town to pick me up and we started south a short ways, the weather seemed to calm and the storm clouds dissipated. Sun glinted down on us as we drove through surrounding dairy farms and untold rows of corn fields until we finally made our way to Ithaca. We hung around the Commons, an area primarily occupied with local shops and performance venues. Out of all of the places I've discovered since the move, I found this stretch of city blocks to be the most welcoming. I walked at a leisurely pace and listened to Andrew tell stories of coming out here when he used to live in Auburn six years ago. Moments later, I spotted a curious sign overhead pointing to a cinema in between two buildings. "Look at this treasure!" I examined the alley and found this:

Alley Cinema

We stumbled around some more and found a decent record store followed by a late Thai lunch at an overwhelmingly vacant restaurant. I neglected the secondhand bookstore across from the record store the first pass and decided to go back and give it a try after food. Autumn Leaves Used Books is also a record shop and cafe turns out.

The familiar atmosphere lured us in: Not uncomfortably quiet, antique smells, an abundant amount of obsolete technology, etc. Desperately, I looked to see if I could find some great used titles. Not a whole lot. I think the store gets cleaned out pretty regularly. Before stepping out, I peeked at the rare collection displayed behind the counter. It was beautiful...

You will be mine someday.

Subsequently, Andrew and I had some beers and watched the Olympics at a sports bar. I watched the springboard and diving events and reminisced of Railroad Ave back home. The Ithaca commons are very much like that part of Bellingham, just more elaborate and developed. There was an impromptu jaunt up the hill to Cornell University. Why? No particular reason. It was in close enough proximity. Result? Kind of ordinary. Although, there was a dazzling cricket near what appeared to be some sort of engineering building. Driving back through the barren small towns on the way home to Syracuse, I had recharged some motivation. It was encouraging to find instances of home on the opposite side of the country.

This House Is Growing

Manita was the first face I'd seen to inhabit this building opposite me. I still don't know where she's from and what she studies, but she has a puppy and isn't too timid to strike up conversation. She lives directly next to me in a larger space, but the view out her window is lackluster. So far I know we will be splitting internet costs. Jeffrey lives further down the hall and I've seen him once or twice. He's quiet and we have yet to communicate about anything, really. No matter. There are several others supposedly moving in this week. How close or estranged will we be over time? We'll see. It's good this place is growing a pulse.

Unadulterated Joy

Coming November.

Taking Shape

Kitchen.

Exactly one week ago I celebrated my departure with my dearest circle of friends. It's been downright excruciating at times, but changes have shifted rapidly. Since Jason and Dad left, I've been in the process of finishing my Teaching Assistanship orientation and modified a new apartment to feel comfortable in. It's been a welcome distraction, but usually on my way home, I'll catch a moment to assess my whereabouts and tend to make the assumption that I'm just temporarily visiting. Even though some of my belongings from Washington are here sitting with me, they somehow maintain an oddly unfamiliar connection.

Shower.

However, progress has been apparent. What began on Tuesday, and through the continuation of this week, I've been in the company of other graduate students from around the world. The atmosphere and vibe is quite interesting. We are a collective of young professionals salivating at the chance to dive into our respective fields. It's a serious environment, but there's room to have fun and to acquaint yourself with people in the other departments. During one of the seminars on problematic classroom situations, I placed myself next to an unsuspecting student. I decided to introduce myself to him and we chatted a bit. He informed me that I happened to be seated with his second-year architecture colleagues and was in good hands. Sarcasm on his part? Yes, but a few wise cracks later and I was in. During lunch break I met with the other four members of his class. Over Indian food we discussed our programs and hometowns. We repeated the process today and sat next to each other during a couple large seminars and followed suit with lunch. We grew friendlier, guards naturally fell, and we joked. It felt safe to set aside talks about school now. The duration of our conversation was colorful. I managed to explain the concept behind Taco Trucks, its relation to authentic Mexican cuisine and weather patterns in Bellingham and Seattle.

Orientation ID.

Guess who's coming to dinner? Well, it already took place earlier this evening, but a former coworker at the bookstore took me to experience some fine teriyaki and sushi. Andrew is vacationing in Auburn, a neighboring town west of Syracuse, with some family. To clarify for some of my familiar bloggers and readers, yes, the same Andrew that eats steak at dance parties and wears white-out contact lenses. A short time after devouring a hardy meal, he taught me the significance of Wegmans. As much as supermarket chains stimulate me, this one truly commanded my attention. My God, the variety, the discounts... Syracuse has a few treasures it seems.

This week is brimming with an exciting blend of the past and present. I am planning to visit Ithaca this weekend after Andrew offered a trek out there. Why the hell not? Tom Green goes to school there, right?

*I started a Flickr account. After this weekend I should have something posted.

Video Stills - Another Way

Here are some teaser stills from the Jenni Potts video that wrapped back on the 2nd. Thanks to Hollie Huthman for snapping these lovely photos. Now that I'm settling into my new place, I will begin to cut this thing together pretty soon. Until then...

Day 3

continued from Syracuse, New York...

It dawned on me today that the Olympics tend to coincide with some of the more memorable life adjustments I've had. Back in '92 the family moved to Yakima from California and I was on the brink of my third academic year as a student. It's odd because my memory of that year is spotty except a clear recollection of the Dan O'Brien and Dave Johnson triathlon rivalry that was about to take place in Barcelona, Spain. The only distinct impression I got from their unimportant, competitive airtime was that they both enjoyed having Reebok as their corporate sponsor:

In '96, (which still remains my favorite year for the Olympics. What's up, Kerri Strug!) I was making the leap up to the middle school and had my first girlfriend. '04 was the transfer to Western Washington University. You get the idea. All of the Olympic coverage today got me in a nostalgic trance, largely due to this man who keeps popping up on my television set every four years.

Today we started out a little somber and quiet. It's been a demanding weekend for the Drori men. By the time I wrapped on some bedding purchases, moods lightened up some. We made our way to Best Buy to look at some tech. My sights are set on a TV right now. A little present to myself, sure, but realistically can't afford it. I consulted Abiel for some electronic advice and came back to finding Jason and Dad jamming on Guitar Hero, the Aerosmith edition. Man was that an amazing sight to see. I wish I could provide a picture. Dad really, really loves Dream On so much that he wanted to replay it again to hear the song. Well Dad, in your honor, here is your cut. Feel free to replay it as many times as you'd like:

Grabbed a corned beef sammie at a pretty medicore irish pub called PJ's downtown shortly afterwards. I had a sneaking suspicion my apartment was not yet complete and so we swung by to do a check. No one was there. Little improvements had been made. Whatevs. It's going to work out. I have to start thinking positive or else I'm going to completely psyche myself out here. All of the structural work now will seem so insignificant in a matter of time. Otherwise, today was a little more managable all the way through the evening. We ordered in pizza from Dorian's and caught up on more Olympic games coverage. Nom, nom, nom. Medals, medals, medals...

Jason leaves back to Boston tomorrow and so begins a new week and period of acclamation. After Dad leaves Tuesday, I will begin orientation for the assistantship. Hold on to your butts. We've got work to do.

Syracuse, New York

Day 1

After two flights across the United States, a Croissan'Wich, and gnawing lower back pain, Dad and I made it into the city of Syracuse. Jason greeted us at baggage claim with open arms. I studied his joyous expression and let it reflect on me a little bit until it began to perk me up some. The plane rides were particularly emotional. Peering out at the clouds through a window seat while reading inspirational notes from your best friends will only amount to streams of tears wetting your face.

We loaded our belongings inside our rented Jeep Liberty and headed to the hotel. I was utterly famished. Only a pack of peanuts and cheese crackers held me over for 5 hours. Where to eat? How about the highly anticipated Dinosaur BBQ?

(a side view with more dino decals)

(bbq chicken, *fries, black beans and rice, and cornbread)

Though it may look generic from the photo, it was pretty tasty and eventually submerged in Sensous Slathering Sauce. I would have taken more photos of the kitch and populated blue collar atmosphere inside, but my fingers attracted too much grease too manuever the camera and I was blinded by hunger/stopped caring. I also couldn't help but think that my friend Daniel would love it here. At one point I managed to break concentration from gorging my face and checked out the menus posted by the grills. 85% of it caters to fans who eat the shit out of ribs. I tried one of Jason's and thought it was just pretty good. The experience was a 7/10.

We all went back to the hotel afterwards and Jason and i innevitbly had a lengthy discussion about big life-changes. If he wasn't around for this trip I'd be a mess. No question.

The night ended with some tears, but I was more hopeful and felt protected by having family nearby.

*I ordered a side of mac n' chee and was given fries instead. Maybe fries pass off as mac n' chee in New York?

Day 2

Stress. Everywhere. Most of the day I sulked over my new living quarters. It looks better after its renovation, but damn if it isn't cramped and still kind of dirty from the construction. Plus my landlord is a fucking headache and forgot to mention a month prior that the unit would not be fully ready by now even after I reminded her to notify me of any changes. The shower in particular was built in such an impractical way that I am forced to stand sideways in order to clean myself. There's a side wall protruding into the center of the shower space. If i want to scrub another part of my body I have to make a 180 degree rotation. Maybe I'm pissing and moaning over small things, but it adds up when you leave across the country and want a smooth transition.

On top of moving, my family is growing towards drastic changes. Mom is looking at moving to Connecticut soon and now I am becoming more concerned for my Dad staying behind temporarily. Having the family individually set up in different states is nerve wracking and awkward. Times have become overwhelmingly conflicting.

After buying some new supplies for the place we decided to break and walk around campus. I showed Jason my department, but most of the areas were locked or under slight renovation. A bit later, I discovered a small strip of eateries and shops that I missed last time I ventured out by campus. Have you heard of Insomnia Cookies? I'm assuming it's a chain, but it totally reminded me of late nights with Lil' and Big Stef and I laughed.


I also found some sandwich shop with this sign that confused me:


The day wore down after a final visit to the apartment to drop off some odds and ends. We had dinner at Lemon Grass downtown. I was hoping to find another Thai place, maybe something with a little more local personality, but we didn't have any luck. Plus, no one wanted to eat at the space-eccentric sushi bar we stumbled upon. Too bad. Into the evening, Jason set up the Wii in the hotel room and blasted some Guitar Hero doodley-doodlies. It's been a long day and now Family Matters is on TV and I feel comforted by the sight of Urkel. He's sadly the only other familiar face around here.

Goodnight.

The Key To Bellingham

(Thank you.)

This past Saturday was eventful to say the least. There was an agenda (possibly the most eclectic) to run through that easily occupied a full day's work. Despite a late start in the early morning, the Potts video shoot went well. Everyone was so supportive and in good spirits. I learned first hand that dogs, and probably most animals, are pretty goddamn hard to work with. Below is a list of credits and thank yous:

Dogs: Summit Flory, PJ Huthman, Grey Maxwell, Polly Maxwell, Otis Tupper-Richards, Brenny Tupper-Richards

On-Site Baristas: Erick Gammon, Jessica Cox, Ken Trough

Catering: Dave Richards, Kali Tupper

Special Thanks: Jessie _____, Scott Rickey, Holly Huthman, Mike Flory, Shannon Flory, Drew Maxwell, Tory Maxwell.

And a big thanks to Jimmy Marble for lending his talents as cinematographer, Mike Wilson for creative input and on-set assistance, and Jenni Potts for her professionalism.

Can't wait to start piecing it together. I will post some teaser stills once I get those from Holly.

By no means did the day let up after the shoot wrapped. Jimmy had organized a wiffleball round-robin tournament in my honor. Congratulations to the Stinktown Warriors for their outstanding performance and victory.

Following the tournament, preparations began for the series finale party at my apartment. Several of my friends have documented the party so well that I think I will just give an overview.

• I raffled off the following possessions: A new package of college ruled paper, 1 Star Trek Trading Card feat. Lwaxana Troi, a Star Trek Commodore 64 Book/Text based game, my poloroid camera, a wolves themed calendar from 2007, and the biggest prize, my XXL Hardrock Cafe Bahamas shirt that I wore as part of my stand-up gimmick. That prize rightfully ended up in the hands of Nick Bild.

• Following the raffle I retired my jersey and number above Karl's bedroom door and paid homage to the number 4 for watching over me through the years.

• The night capped off with a ceremonial presentation. After a enjoyable speech by Jimmy, he and my good friend Nick joined together to bestow me with the honorable key to the city of Bellingham.

I was flattered to have such a great group here under the same roof, dancing and laughing. The night was wonderful.

Now I prepare for the real transition. Tomorrow morning I am flying away from Washington to New York. Tonight I am rallying up my close friends together for a final goodbye dinner at Smith's in Seattle. Over a delectable burger I will declare my immeasurable love to my dear, dear friends.

Video Project - Jenni Potts

Ok! Here we go!

I registered for classes earlier this morning. I'm officially enrolled in my film program. What better way to celebrate than to shoot a new project, right? I just got back from planning out tomorrow's video shoot for Jenni Potts. We're going to use the song "Another Way," which is one of the tracks I like best turns out.

(Potts crooning above)

Should be fun. Think tacky musical recital featuring an audience of canines. Although I wish this project could have been done earlier in the year, I am pretty relieved to finally get things prepped and ready to shoot. Hopefully I'll have some nice stills to post this weekend.

Prelude To The East

As of 9:30pm I forfeited my position as bookseller and menial customer service laborer. Yes, tonight marked an end of an era. I cleaned out my cubicle, hung up my apron, and turned in my badge at the bookstore. Despite a couple congratulatory handshakes and free beer on my lunch break, Thursday was a typical business affair. Nothing really to uphold. Tomorrow morning I will readjust to civilian life and register for classes with Syracuse University. It's strange to think I will assume the role of student again after such a lengthy break, but it feels appropriate and I anticipate the maturity of the new environment with a lot of enthusiasm. One could surmise that Michael Jordan felt these similar kinds of emotions after returning to the game for the second time.

I wanted to mention this yesterday when it was more fitting, but NASA reached its coveted 50th anniversary. Only now as a young man have I started to appreciate the beauty we've achieved with human spaceflight and the process of scientific discovery. The manpower and dedication scientists and researches have made at NASA for the past 50 years is infinitely inspiring. We sure have come far as a human race. Surprisingly, news was pretty tight-lipped about this impressive milestone. That bothered me, so I thought I'd use my humble internet space to observe the occasion with a clip from one of my favorite documentaries, For All Mankind. The wonderful score is composed by ambient King of Kings, Brian Eno:

The Universe Of Garth Marenghi

This past winter I was introduced to the UK's Channel 4 network after viewing the greatly underrated Garth Marenghi's Darkplace DVD.


The show, which only aired for one season of six episodes (full season for UK television), is the brainchild of writer/actors Matthew Holness and Richard Ayoade. Darkplace is a comedy series released in 2004 that lampoons 1980's television dramas of the horror/sci-fi genre. The low-budget aesthetic of the show is absolutely stunning. I was in awe of their commitment to dreadful entertainment using deliberately stilted dialogue, flawed continuity, tacky period fashion, degraded film stock, and synthesizer soundtracks. It all amounts to a production that parodies 80's culture so ingeniously. You can't help but admire.

Take a look:


(Garth Marenghi's Darkplace - Ep 1 Pt 1)
*Note the Channel 4 Ident from 1982

What's great is that Darkplace is infused with seriousness. The structure of the show operates as a show within a show within a fictional universe. Episodes are cut with present day interviews with ficticious cast and crew as they explain the missteps of the scripts and give insight into their creative process. It's all deadpan, pushing the joke even further. Ayoade's Dean Learner comments on his character Thornton Reed in an interview:

"I warned Garth, erm, I said, "I'm not an actor". And erm, he said, I'll always remember this, that he didn't want an act, he wanted the truth. So erm, here is, er, Dean Learner, playing Thornton Reed. Not putting on an act, but putting on the truth."

Holness also plays dual roles as Marenghi and Darkplace lead Dr. Rick Dagless M.D. Both egotistical and seemingly driven by the occult. Holness and creators go as far as to bewilder media with promotional material done in-character and issue press releases with fictional backgrounds for the characters of the show. There is never any mention of the real actors and their previous work.

The satire may not be all that new (see also: This Is Spinal Tap). But Darkplace uses all of its intentional mistakes to explore how popularity, not capability, leads to unsuccessful applications of entertainment. Hey! kind of like, 99% of television! Even though we have a mere six episodes, we also have six of the incredible spin-off series Man to Man With Dean Learner, which would probably require another entry to elaborate on its extension of Darkplace. I just hope these guys continue to work for a long time. They are too rare to look over.