Doña Licha y El Chisme

News: America's Hand-Me-Downs Provide Mobility for Mexico's Handicapped

2011-05-17T14:06:00.000-07:00

A great story worth re-posting!

Free wheelchairs give new life to rural Mexicans

By Ebonne Ruffins, CNN

April 28, 2011 6:27 p.m. EDT

(Article origin: http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/americas/04/28/cnnheroes.st.denis.wheelchairs/index.html)

Toluca, Mexico (CNN) -- For decades, Richard St. Denis has advocated for the rights of Americans who, like him, are living with a disability.

But the attorney from Colorado saw his life shift in 1997, when he was invited to speak in Mexico.

"I was asked to bring one wheelchair to give to somebody," he remembers. "As I was waiting for the program to begin, I was shocked to see people using branches for crutches, being pushed in wheelbarrows and crawling."

The lone wheelchair went to Leti Elizale Marcial, a 17-year-old suffering from polio. She had never walked a day in her life, and she was carried around daily by her mother.

"I saw how happy she was, but I looked around and saw the other people that had nothing," St. Denis said. "Their life was going to be exactly the same, and one wheelchair was not enough. I just felt someone had to come and help."

So once a year from 1997 until 2004, St. Denis would load a van with 10 to 15 donated wheelchairs and drive 30 hours -- from Colorado to Mexico -- to distribute them to people with disabilities.

Now, he has a permanent residence in the country and a nonprofit, World Access Project, that provides custom-fit wheelchairs, walkers and canes to people in rural Mexican communities.

"We want to distribute the more than 75,000 wheelchairs we estimate get thrown away in the U.S. every year," said St. Denis, 56. "What we call our trash becomes their riches, and it makes an incredible difference in their lives."

The used wheelchairs are collected from hospitals, nursing homes, medical supply businesses and individual donors from across the United States. With help from a U.S.-based nonprofit, Hope Haven, the wheelchairs are refurbished by senior citizen volunteers and prison inmates in Iowa before being shipped to Mexico.

St. Denis' group also began purchasing mobility equipment from a company in Mexico that makes wheelchairs designed for use on the country's rough terrain.

St. Denis said the wheelchairs provide recipients with more independence, access to job opportunities and the chance to pursue a social life.

"Before it, I didn't know anyone; I was in the house," said Marcial, who is now 32. "After I got my chair, it was like I was born again. I went out, and I got to know other people with disabilities when I'd thought I was the only one. I also started working, and I have my own house now. I'm married, and my 2-year-old girl thinks of Richard like a grandfather. I really am thankful for all of his support."

The mission of World Access Project goes beyond a one-time gift.

"We don't just give them a wheelchair and say, 'Adios,' " St. Denis said. "We develop relationships, and we teach people how to use the chair -- not just as something to sit in. Volunteers from the United States come down a few times a year to help make the recipients' homes more wheelchair-accessible, and we host classes and camps to teach people how to play sports with their chairs."

St. Denis has become a familiar face throughout Mexico, where an estimated 2 million people have some form of disability, according to a government housing census. He is frequently welcomed into homes and greeted kindly wherever he goes, and he has formed relationships with other organizations that serve people with disabilities.

He believes his project's popularity is due, in great part, to a personal connection to the people he serves.

"I understand what they're going through, and they know I understand," St. Denis said. "We're conquerors of the limitations in our life."

In 1976, St. Denis fell while skiing in Lake Tahoe, California. The result was a severed spinal cord, a surgery-filled hospital stay and the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

"I thought (it) was a horrible tragedy," said St. Denis, who was an airplane mechanic in the Air Force at the time. "I woke up every morning wishing I was dead ... angry at God for taking the ability to walk away from me. ... I just stopped wanting anything for my life."

St. Denis rejected most forms of assistance from anyone. But with time -- and inspiration from a wheelchair-bound veteran he befriended -- he eventually "adjusted" and found a new purpose.

St. Denis said he is now content and comfortable in Mexico, where he lives and works for 10 months out of the year. But he acknowledges that he has received some criticism from friends and family in the United States.

"People say, 'it's too dangerous in Mexico; why do you go there to help when you can help people in the United States?' " he said. "I feel like God has called me to do this. They need a presence here, and what I'm doing is teaching other people so that when the day comes when I can't come to Mexico anymore, the people of Mexico will continue doing this work. That would be the biggest dream that I could ever imagine."

Through World Access Project, St. Denis has helped more than 500 people in Mexico. He has also made lifelong friendships and learned that personal losses can be used to transform the lives of others.

"One day, someone said, 'Richard, I want to thank you for giving up your legs so we could have a better quality of life,' " St. Denis said. "I didn't intentionally give up my legs, but I feel like I gave up something to help other people. I know people's lives are getting better in Mexico. I feel really great to be part of that."

Want to get involved? Check out the World Access Project website at www.worldaccessproject.org and see how to help.

Video: Ashley Judd Fights Human Trafficking

2011-05-16T22:41:00.001-07:00

Re-post from: http://www.traffickingproject.org/

Music: "How He Loves" by Erik Lauritsen

2011-05-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's been a long while! Well, I just wanted to post a quick little something that I found while seeking Worship & Praise music on Soundcloud. My search led me to this magnificent number, enjoy!

P.s. - Clicking this track will automatically pause the current default track on the blog page, and vice-versa.

With Love,

"Doña Licha"

How He Loves by Erik Lauritsen

Arts: Cella Satellite Gallery Presents "Scaling the Wall"

2011-03-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

(Click on image to zoom in)

Cella Satellite Galleries presents

Scaling the Wall

Opening Reception: Friday, March 18, 8 – 11pm

“…It’s me yelling to the whole world…I exist. I’m here.” – Wel, from Graffiti Verite

Los Angeles — Cella Satellite Galleries, is pleased to present Scaling the Wall. Curated by Trina Calderón and Miah Jeffra, the exhibition features graffiti and graffiti-influenced works by a diverse group of writers and artists in California.

Scaling the Wall comprises large-scale bombs by four of Southern California’s best female writers, and a white-wall display featuring six artists straddling the worlds of street and gallery institution, through various media.

Inspired by the groundbreaking MOCA street art retrospective, Art in the Streets, opening later this year, Scaling the Wall attempts to act as complement to Art in the Streets’ largely male roster of artists, while also discussing the complex and evolving relationship between street art and the arts institution.

Artists featured are PERL FDS, JERK, OPIA, KUTA ONE HEM BWS, ROOTSYSTM, ogdarthvader, LOVER ONE, C.1, Proto and Alberto Aviles Molina. The bombs, thrown up on bifurcated wood panels, will be auctioned on opening night, then divided at the close of the exhibition. Proceeds will benefit ArtStorm, an aerosol art non-profit organization that provides self-sustaining world-class Urban Art and LifeSkill programs for at-risk youth in Los Angeles. Aerosol paint for the bombs is provided by Montana Store Los Angeles, in Echo Park.

The opening reception will be Friday, March 18, from 8 – 11pm. The evening will feature live painting by Collective Aesthetics. Sound equipment to be provided by Looport and DJ Mixter Ed will spin records for the opening event.

Cella Satellite Galleries is located at 10816 Burbank Boulevard, North Hollywood. Gallery viewings are by appointment. For more information, please contact Shannon Currie Holmes at 213.291.7908 or info@cellagallery.com.

IMAGES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

EXHIBITION AND GALLERY EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Video: Iron and Wine - "Boy With a Coin"

2011-03-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

Beautiful song & exceptional dancing!
Enjoy!

Video: Modern English - Someone's Calling

2011-03-04T13:50:00.000-08:00

Video (& Exhibit): JR - 2011 TED Prize Winner

2011-03-03T10:12:00.001-08:00

TED Prize Winner JR & INSIDE OUT from TED Prize on Vimeo.

JR@TED TED Prize launch is open to the public and I am inviting you to join us.
One Artist, One Wish, to change the world.
And you can partcipate.

In the spirit of JR's work and in an unusual move, this typically exclusive TED experience will embrace the general public and invite everyone in for a visit. You can help JR launch his wish by visiting the JR @ TED gallery.

Hours
Noon to 7pm on Thursday, March 3, 2011
10am to 7pm on Friday, March 4, 2011

Location
JR @ TED at Phantom Galleries LA
170 N Promenade, Long Beach, CA 90802

To sign up to watch JR TED Prize Wish LIVE visit
www.tedprize.org/jr-one-artist-one-wish-to-change-the-world-will-you-join-him

Arts: Legit - A Lincoln High School Art Show

2011-03-02T15:36:00.001-08:00

(Click in image to enlarge)

Video: The Hate Destroyer

2011-03-02T10:03:00.000-08:00

THE HATE DESTROYER (Demo-version) from Fotogramma25 on Vimeo.

Film & Music: A History Lesson Part 1

2011-02-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

END FWY Presents

A Special Film Screening of:

A HISTORY LESSON PART 1 / A Film By Dave Travis

Saturday, February 26 at 8:00pm - February 27 at 1:00am

SUNKEN CITY WAREHOUSE

447 W. 6th Street (Enter through 7th St. Alley)

San Pedro, CA 90731

This Film Will Starts At 8pm Sharp! Please be on time.

In 1984, a teenage Dave Travis decided to capture punk rock in Los Angeles on video tape, a fascination and hobby that he would continue until 1997, logging in hundreds of hours of Los Angeles area shows and interviews. In “A History Lesson Part 1, Travis presents live footage filmed in the spring of 1984 featuring the Meat Puppets, Minutemen, Twisted Roots and Redd Kross interspersed with interviews of members from each group which examines and puts a perspective on the early years of “psychedelic” punk rock in Los Angeles and Phoenix, AZ. Each song by each group is presented from start to finish.

Plus Live Music Following the Screening by:

TOYS THAT KILL ... 12:15 a.m.
http://www.myspace.com/toysthatkill

HOT NEW MEXICANS ... 11:30 p.m.
http://www.myspace.com/hotnewmexicans
from Athens, GA

MIKE WATT + THE SECONDMEN ... 10:20 p.m.
http://www.myspace.com/secondmen

CARNAGE ASADA ... 9:30 p.m.
http://www.myspace.com/familiacarnageasada

Plus It's Lucy's Birthday!!!

$5.00 Cheap!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WATER UNDER THE BRIDGE RECORDS
Merch For Sale at this Gig!!!

• BRAND NEW T-SHIRTS & SWEATSHIRTS!!!

• MINUTEMEN / SACCHARINE TRUST
Split 7-Inch (these may be ready for this gig! we hope so!)

• THE REACTIONARIES - 1979
LP/CD $10.00 each (on sale)

• SEAN COLE - Christy Twins
CASSETTE w/ Digital Download $5.00 (on sale)

• TODD CONGELLIERE - Clown Sounds & Clown Frowns
CD Digipak $8.00 (on sale)

• EPIC DEBAUCHERY - Excess In Moderation
CASSETTE w/ Digital Download $5.00 (on sale)

BRING SOME CASH!

Go here if you can't wait:

http://www.waterunderthebridgerecords.com/

Music: Bombón & More!

2011-02-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

(Click to enlarge image)

Arts: The Valentine's Day Exchange

2011-02-01T13:22:00.000-08:00

"The Valentine's Day Exchange"

A One Day Art Super Sale

(click on image to zoom in)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2011

Featuring artwork and a limited-edition print set by:

HIT+RUN // DETHKILLS // TWO RABBITS // YO! PEACE
LUCKY BUNNY // KRIS KUTS // ASHIRA SEIGEL
TAVA TEDESCO // DOMINIQUE DE ROUEN // AND MORE

PLUS LIVE SCREENPRINTING BY HIT+RUN
Bring your own shirt or hoodie to get silkscreened for only $5

****************************************

**
******************************************
******** RAS G "BEAT SOUP V.3" ********
********* ALBUM LISTENING PARTY ********
******* CD available for only $5! *******
******************************************
********************************************

ALSO WITH DRINKS, MUSIC, DJS and RAFFLE PRIZES

1218 S. LONG BEACH AVENUE
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES, CA 90021

2PM-8PM | ALL AGES | FREE

Video: Callie Curry aka "Swoon"

2011-01-31T19:21:00.000-08:00

Photo: The Korean Friendship Bell

2011-01-31T13:12:00.000-08:00

I snapped this photo with my cell phone while visiting the gorgeous bell on a clear and sunny day. I thought I'd share a bit of what this friendship bell is all about, details below.

"This massive and intricately-decorated bell and pavilion was donated in 1976 to the people of Los Angeles by the people of the Republic of Korea to celebrate the bicentennial of the U.S. independence, honor veterans of the Korean War, and to consolidate traditional friendship between the two countries. The bell is patterned after the Bronze Bell of King Songdok, which was cast in 771 A.D. and is still on view in South Korea today.

The bell was cast in Korea and shipped to the United States. Weighing 17 tons, with a height of twelve feet and a diameter of 7-1/2 feet, the bell is made of copper and tin, with gold, nickel, lead and phosphorous added for tone quality. When it was built, it cost the Korean people $500,000. Four pairs of figures, each pair consisting of the Goddess of Liberty holding a torch, and a Korean spirit , are engraved in relief on the body of the bell. Each of the Korean spirits holds up a different symbol: a symbolic design of the Korean flag; a branch of the rose of Sharon, Korea's national flower; a branch of laurel, symbol of victory; and a dove of peace. The bell has no clapper but is struck from the outside with a wooden log.

The bell is set in a pagoda-like stone structure which was constructed on the site by thirty craftsmen flown in from Korea. It took them ten months and costs $569,680. The pavilion is supported by twelve columns representing the twelve designs of the Oriental zodiac. Animals stand guard at the base of each column.

Resting peacefully on the knoll overlooking the sea gate from which U.S. troops sailed into the Pacific, the bell site affords an unsurpassed view of the Los Angeles harbor, the Catalina Channel and the sea terraces of San Pedro hill. The bell is rung only four times each year: the Fourth of July, August 15 (Korean Independence Day) and New Year's Eve, and every September to coincide with bell ringings around the country to celebrate Constitution week"

Korean Bell of Friendship and Bell Pavilion
Angels Gate Park
3601 S Gaffey Street
San Pedro, CA 90731
(310) 548-7705

View Larger Map

Information sourced from: www.SanPedro.com

Video: Metric - "Help, I'm Alive!"

2011-01-26T15:21:00.000-08:00

E'llo Loveys!
Just wanted to drop in a nice little video post!

♥ Enjoy ♥

Arts: First Thursdays Art Walk in Downtown San Pedro

2011-01-25T19:59:00.000-08:00

Oh me, oh my! I'm excited for the upcoming
First Thursdays Art Walk in Downtown San Pedro!
Come see my newest work in the Alice in Wonderland themed show at the "The Mad Tea Party" at the Tree House Gallery (now ARCADE!), and swing by the other galleries/shops to get an eyeful/earful of inspiration! Check the flyers/info below:

"The Mad Tea Party"

The Tree House Gallery Arcade
341 West 7th Street
San Pedro, CA 90731

Thursday: February 3, 2010 - 6pm-11pm

Art Gallery, Music, Arcade Games, & Boutique!
Complimentary appetizers & drinks!

(click on all images to zoom in)

PASTEE CO. (a few feet away from The Tree House!)

See Bombón play @ 9pm-10pm at:
Bad Fish Clothing & Records
337 West 6th Street
San Pedro, CA 90731

(Bombón photo credits: Shanty Cheryl. Check out her amazing work.)

Arts: "Black Roses...in the City of L.A."

2011-01-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

Hello world! I'm embarking on another curatorial art project, this time featuring all girl artists within the graffiti art sub-culture. May I present to you, "Black Roses...in the City of L.A." This event will be held at Land Mark, Inc. in Los Angeles on Saturday, March 12th, 2010 and will feature gifted artists blossoming in the Los Angeles concrete jungle. A big thank you to Huskey Radio for their support in keeping the arts alive!

Please follow the event blog and stay tuned for more updates!
http://blackrosesinthecityofla.blogspot.com/
&
Follow the Tweets!
http://www.twitter.com/blackrosesla

Arts: Self Help Graphics Aerosol Art Workshop

2011-01-07T18:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Vyal One and Self Help Graphics & Art in East Los Angeles for providing an opportunity to speak to the next generation of budding artists!

The Aerosol Art Workshop will cover design tips and techniques as the youth watch their art come alive. This workshop also digs into the history of the aerosol art-form, and this is where another guest speaker and myself come in! We will be discussing our views of graffiti art, sharing our personal experiences in the sub-culture, and speaking about the less frequented female role in the male dominated scene.

The workshop is suitable for beginners to intermediates, and participants gain hands-on experience creating a collaborative piece. Free to youth 18 years old and younger, ad $10 for adults over 18.

Self Help Graphics & Art

3802 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue

East Los Angeles, CA 90063

Phone: (323) 881-6444

For more information, please visit the following sites:

Self Help Graphics & Art

Vyal One

Vyal One Art Page - Facebook

Artist Spotlight: Rebornz One

2011-01-05T00:16:00.001-08:00

ARTIST SPOTLIGHT:

REBORNZ ONE

Los Angeles based artist Randy De Leon is a brilliant paint whiz! Sprouting from graffiti roots, he (like many), experienced a path change towards being productive, rather than destructive. After much reflection and contemplation about the lifestyle, he sought change that maintained the art aspect as a conduit. He enrolled, attended, and graduated from Art Institute in Communication Art & Graphic Design, and in 2004, he gave birth to his alias Rebornz. His range of work is all across the art spectrum, from solo art show exhibits, to murals, to graphic design, and many new ventures to come.

He holds a vision that spreads the beauty of art, that communicates a positive message, and that can brighten people's lives in some way, shape, or form. HWC (Heavenly Way Crew, Hope Will Conquer) crew is his opus, a group of budding artists with hopes in spreading their colorful message throughout the city, the nation, and crossing international lines. Plans are being laid before the group to set up exhibits, collaboration shows, musical events, a clothing line, graphic & web design, murals, and participation in various types of events. HWC is tender still, but aspiring to become deeply rooted being able to serve a purpose through the art avenues.

To view more of Rebornz artwork, please visit: www.rebornzart.com

Below is a little excerpt taken from his website,

"Randy “Rebornz” De Leon used to be known by another name. His former street name is unimportant as it represents the life he used to lead, hanging around with a Los Angeles tagging crew, slipping out at night to cover the streets with his art, getting guns pulled on him by gang members or shop owners, searched by police, falling off roofs, all in pursuit of the only way he knew to develop his signature street art. As his path got darker and darker he found his wake up call when he was hauled off to jail. It created his artist epiphany, a new identity as he realized there needed to be more to life, another way to survive and create.

Rebornz art was created in 2004 after the artist himself was reborn. He found other means of developing his art and graduated with a degree in communication arts. Randy De Leon’s illustrations are centered on his believes and everyday life.

“Dwelling in Victories, my mouth will express victories only, in time my vision and dreams will come to pass…for a million times I’ve seen it in my mind…Embrace with love and peace / Hope Will Conquer…” – Randy De Leon (Rebornz Art).2010″

Below are some pictures taken with permission from the artist's website. Click on images to zoom in. Enjoy!

Arts & Music: VISUALANGUAGE & BASQUE @ Pastee Co.

2011-01-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

"VISUALANGUAGE"

Curated by:
Wesley Pacleb & Tima Peck

Themed Show: visual art intertwining writing/verbal communication

By integrating visual and verbal communication we form an abstract approach to language, genuine to the conception that language is a means to communicate through a system of symbols. We are ardent individuals ready to reach outside of the box with new approaches to expressing creativity and communicating ideas by incorporating these two forms of communication.

We ...thank the owners of Pastee Co. for supporting local artists of all kinds and using their space. http://www.pasteeco.com/

Possible Line up:
*submissions are due december 28th

Ulysses Arreola (Visual Artist)
Ruth Cabral (Visual Artist)
Christopher Creath (Visual Artist)
Jan Davids (Visual Artist)
Joseph Umali Fernandez (Visual Artist)
Gedi (Visual Artist)
Chad Grant (Poet)
Dior Helwig (Conceptual Artist/Writer)
Janice Jacinto (Visual Artist)
Jasper (Visual Artist)
Veronica Marshall (Visual Artist)
Toneo Oishi (Visual Artist)
Wesley Pacleb (Visual Artist/Poet)
Pablo Paz (Visual Artist))
Tima Peck (Visual Artist/Writer)
Nicolas Pensta (Visual Artist)
Speech 1 (Visual Artist)
Midori Sushicat (Visual Art)
Steven Hoffmann (Poet)
Sean Webb (Visual Artist)
Geoffrey Udo (Visual Artist)
Misael Valle (Visual Artist)

Also featuring a special performance at 9:00:
BASQUE

Live DJs - 7:00-9:00
Freeman
Rob Bass
Lucky 8

(click on flyer to zoom in)

Flyer artist: Jenny Sanchez (2010)

Video: Phil Lumbang and The Awesome Bears

2011-01-04T13:04:00.000-08:00

Artist Spotlight: Make One a.k.a Galo (Love Galo)

2011-01-04T01:02:00.000-08:00

Artist Spotlight:

Make One, Galo, Love Galo

I introduce to you to the wonderful world of Galo "Make" Canote, a very dear friend of mine, a brother in Spirit, a serious foodie, and a wonderful West Coast Artist from the Los Angeles region. An old school graffiti veteran from the 80's, he helped pave the way for the future generations of Los Angeles graffiti art. Representing WCA, LOD, and STN Crews, his graffiti background has allowed him to transcend the boundary line between graffiti and urban street art. An L.A. version of Baquiat, he's had his work featured in numerous galleries. Besides gallery attractions, he also shares his time and talent with many. Whether public speaking on art issues at local high schools, teaching children how to tap into their creativity, or curating art exhibits, he's always up to something productive in the arena.

2011 has officially arrived and FatCap.com decided to ask artists to share their new year resolutions with their readers. Below is Make's answer, and I'd just like to give him two thumbs up on gearing towards upward movement...

"For next year? I'll MAKE this succinct - Priority number one: to have more LoveGalo Girls! Then: paint more, travel more, curate more shows, make more money, possibly and finally battle Cope2 and continue my quest to becoming the Wilt Chamberlain of graffiti art." (FatCap.com)

Here are a few links into the world of Make One
(I hope you find his work fascinating and interviews entertaining as I have!):

Below are some pictures and a video of his work...enjoy!

Photography: Doña Junta in Downtown L.A.

2010-12-28T12:17:00.000-08:00

I read my comadre's status post on Facebook, and it caught my eye,

“Sipping some coffee in Boyle Heights, the Sears Tower in the distance, a cold breezy night.” – Doña Junta

Anything poetic, emotive, positive, colorful, and vague grasps my attention; so knowing the downtown Los Angeles night world becomes her oyster...I know firsthand, this little pearl flourishes with curiosities.

Yesterday late evening, dusk time, she was out capturing photos of Downtown LA and I asked her if she'd like to share some of them. Much obliged, she sent me three from last night's adventure, and the following are from previous encounters with "la cuidad."

So, let's all take a peek through her camera's lens and become voyeurs of her mysterious world...

(Click on images to zoom in)

“The rust, the darkness the built up grime..The history in the air, la gente con la comida, the lonelier always a treat, the rustier the better, the buildings abandoned have more life. Walking down Santa Fe on neglected sidewalks brings me joy. A beautiful night to remember.” – Doña Junta

Beside photography, she is artistic in other realms as well. A journalist at heart, she blogs about the random topics that stir her up and rouse her curiosities. Most of the photography on her blog is snapped by her, a genuine attempt to personify her individuality in her work. All the time and effort she makes to post an entry, gets a high five from me! Click on the links to be redirected to Doña Junta's World...

http://www.swapmeetlives.blogspot.com/
http://laeastside.com/

Good Cause: Dive! Helping End Food Waste

2010-12-23T10:54:00.000-08:00

Whole Foods and Trader Joe's Throwing Out Millions of Pounds of Edible Food?

Written by Jill Ettinger
Article derived from Organicauthority.com

Wal-Mart is the largest purchaser of organic food in the U.S. surpassing likelier suspects, Whole Foods and Trader Joe's. And the retail giant has one-upped them again by enacting a company-wide donation policy on short-dated or mildly damaged foods while the top two natural food chains let perfectly edible products rot in dumpsters and landfills.

Filmmaker Jeremy Seifert directed the multi-award winning documentary, DIVE!, about the more than 95 billion pounds of edible food ending up in America's landfills each year.

After realizing his own local area grocery stores, mainly Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, were regularly pitching perfectly edible food in their dumpsters, he set out to see if he could feed his family with this reclaimed food and document it for a film project. What he found was not only could he feed his family, but there was enough food to feed the millions of hungry people in Los Angeles county, and millions more around the country.

In DIVE! Seifert makes repeated attempts to help Trader Joe's and Whole Foods adopt a policy that prevents food from ending up in their dumpsters and instead allocated to area food banks, homeless shelters and soup kitchens. To date, neither organization has made any commitment and both continue to throw away millions of pounds of food; a costly expense for taxpayers and the environment, all while homeless, veterans, children and millions of unemployed go hungry.

Fresh off a successful screening of DIVE! on Capitol Hill, Seifert still has not seen corporate policies from Trader Joe's or Whole Foods on food waste. Though there have been some successful discussions with both retail outlets, the commitment to reroute food, especially during recession-era times, has not been made official, so Seifert has come up with a "plan B."

The Kickstarter Campaign is seeking to raise $10,000 to be able to send every Whole Foods and Trader Joe's a copy of the film DIVE! along with a letter that discusses our food and landfill crisis.Their target date is just under two weeks away, so swing over to DIVE! to make a donation and get involved by showing a screening in your community. Talk with your local retailers about their food policies and see if you can help ensure no one goes hungry.

Charity: Katie’s Krops – A 12 Year-Old Feeding the Hungry

2010-12-23T10:37:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful and inspiring true story of a child with a giving heart! She grows vegetables and feeds the hungry...read more of her amazing story below.

11-Year-Old Grows Tons of Veggies for the Homeless

Written by Diane Herbst

Organicauthority.com

It all began in third grade, when Katie Stagliano's 40-pound cabbage fed 275 homeless people. Now, Katie's six gardens have produced over 4,000 pounds of vegetables to feed the needy.

When Katie Stagliano was in third grade, she planted a cabbage in her family's small garden. When it grew to an astounding 40 pounds, she donated it to a soup kitchen, where it was made into meals for 275 people (with the help of ham and rice). "I thought, 'Wow, with that one cabbage I helped feed that many people?'" says Katie, now entering sixth grade. "I could do much more than that."

So Katie started planting vegetable gardens as part of her nonprofit Katie's Krops — she has six right now — including one the length of a football field at her school in her hometown of Summerville, S.C. Classmates, her family and other people in the community help plant and water, and Bonnie Plants donates seedlings. This past year, Katie took her commitment to a new level: she has given soup kitchens over 2,000 pounds of lettuce, tomatoes and other vegetables. Katie and her helpers are now harvesting the spring planting, and another 1,200 pounds will be donated by October.

Read more of this article on Organicauthority.com.

Katie’s Krops Official Website

Study: Increase of Doctors Who Believe in Miracles

2010-12-17T13:25:00.000-08:00

An awesome study I stumbled upon today!

Does your doctor believe in miracles? You might be surprised

By Linda Shrieves, Orlando Sentinel
December 15, 2010

A new national survey of 1,005 physicians revealed that 75 percent of them say that miracles can occur these days. That's higher than two years ago when 70 percent of doctors interviewed said they believed in miracles.

Conducted by HCD Research, the survey asked doctors about their perceptions of faith, prayer and miracles in the medical field as well as their everyday lives.

Among the findings: The majority of physicians (53 percent) indicated that they pray for their patients, compared to the 2008 study in which 49 percent said they pray for their patients.

In addition, there was a slight increase in the percentage of physicians who reported that they encourage their patients to pray because it is psychologically and spiritually beneficial.

Story derived from The L.A. Times Newspaper.

House Bill: HR5575

2010-12-15T20:16:00.000-08:00

H.R. 5575 - Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Deterrence & Victims Support Act of 2010

HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS RISING AT ALARMING LEVELS in the states, and more minors are being caught in the dark underworld of sex slavery.

On December 9, the U.S. Senate passed S.2925, “Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking Deterrence and Victims Support Act of 2010.” This bipartisan legislation was introduced by Senators Wyden (D-OR) and Cornyn (R-TX) and was passed with unanimous consent in the Senate. With only one week left in the Congressional session, the House must now adopt the Senate bill and pass it by Friday, December 17!

What you need to know about S.2925:

It will provide $2m to $2.5m a year in funding to six state and local pilot projects to serve and shelter child victims of sex trafficking
Funds can be used to empower law enforcement efforts to combat the sex trafficking of children
With less than 100 beds in shelters across the nation, these funds are critically needed to help restore exploited children.
Law enforcement needs assistance to ensure that traffickers and buyers of sex with vulnerable girls and boys don’t continue to get away unpunished.

Please contact your House Representative today, please click on the Polaris
Project website to find our more information and how to take action.

Thank you!

Video: Salsa Dancing Dog

2010-12-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

Hahahhahaha!

Events: Toys 4 Tijuana's Children

2010-12-10T09:18:00.000-08:00

Blog post edit: Hip Hop Rocks 4 Autism is postponed for 2011. On the flip side, another charitable event will take place...same time, date, and place!

Please read more about this great collaborative effort to bring smiles to orphans in the violent and poverty-stricken border town area of Tijuana, México. Be involved or simply come and donate your generosity this upcoming Christmas holiday...

AMC, NFIA, and VEES CAFE present:

"Toys 4 Tijuana's Children"
Sunday, Dec. 19th, 2010 - 12pm - 10pm

(Click on images to zoom in)

Please come and enjoy this special charity event featuring Art, Music, Food, and
Art Auction to help orphaned children in Playas de Tijuana, México.

Casa Hogar Niños de la Promesa: http://casahogardetijuana.galeon.com/

Art, Music & Culture (AMC), NFIA, and VeesCafe
will be hosting this charity event to collect toys, clothes, and donations to support
Centro Comunitario Makio Cultural: http://makiocentrocultural.galeon.com/.
CCMC will be hosting a Posada [Christmas dinner], and giving the gifts/clothes to the needy children at the orphan home, Casa Hogar Niños de la Promesa in Playas de Tijuana. Left over donations will be distributed to other orphanages in the surrounding area.

ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO DIRECTLY TO THIS CAUSE

Participating artists:
OCHO VARGAS, CHUYMOSCA, JOE ANIVILLE, JESSE PEREZ, ALEX RIOS, E. LOPEZ,
DAN Q., LANA LINGAN, MELISSA K., EFREN LUNA, LANA LINGAN, ENRIQUE CHIU,
EFRAIN MARTINEZ, & MORE!

Music by:
EL VENTE TU, XPERIMENTO 56, & MORE!

Supported by:
AMC, NFIA, & VEES CAFE

Artists, volunteers, musicians, and anyone interested
(if you would like to donate art, or participate) please contact:

Efren Luna
lunaefren@yahoo.com
(562)756-3428

***************************

I've taken the liberty to post pictures of some of the many handwritten letters from the children. They are asking for things many of us seem to skim over the pleasure of having readily available; such as, shoes, pants, sweaters, shirts, toys, and even simple things like hair clips. More wish-lists (written in Spanish) are available to view in the link provided below. - Doña Licha a.k.a. Alex Ramos

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=128435&id=1130875700
"Casa Hogar “Niños de la Promesa ” que ha marcado la diferencia en la calidad de vida de los niños que ahí viven, y quienes han encontrado un lugar lleno de luz y color para desarrollar sus potencialidades."

Jazz: In Memoriam of James Moody

2010-12-10T06:50:00.001-08:00

Book Review: "The Power of a Whisper" by Bill Hybels

2010-12-03T12:20:00.000-08:00

Here is some interesting and hopeful reading for those who have faith in the name of Jesus Christ, and for those whose hearts are stirred with curiosity, and for those in search of meaning and purpose in their own lives.

The last book I gave a review on was Think Differently, Live Differently by Bob Hamp, and now Bill Hybels gets a turn with his book, The Power of a Whisper: Hearing God. Having the Guts to Respond.

The first five chapters are very, very catchy. He begins with the story of Eli and Samuel in the Bible and digs deep into the mysterious phenomena of spiritual hearing. This book is very Biblical and informative as it clarifies and organizes the pieces of the puzzle (bits of information) and starts to reveal the bigger picture. It is so much bigger than we think it is. This book will certainly adjust your antennae to fine tune into the God Frequency (and those with ears, let them hear).

Bill Hybels does write from his own personal experience, therefore as a believer, I know that I have my own individual awareness and background to contribute to the bigger picture of the Kingdom of God. As I've heard Bob Hamp say before, "The most important piece of a puzzle is the top of the box because it reveals the big picture on how to arrange the smaller pieces."

So, now that I'm done with that book, on to my next read. I started reading a new book last night in my own search for spiritual wisdom. Life experience explained from an older person's perspective, is a form of model and guide through a younger one's life's paths. That is why we learn what we do from our parents and grandparents, and those older and wiser than us. I believe that the condition of one's heart reveals true wisdom, therefore, I started reading The Blessed Life by Robert Morris.

I opened up the book and I read up to the second chapter. I know this is one of the best reads I've sought this year. Already up to Chapter 2, and I am seriously mind blown! I cannot emphasize how truly anxious I am to finish reading this book. For this reason, please check in to read my next book review on Robert Morris' National Bestseller.

Lastly, I leave you with this: "My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding." - Proverbs 2:1-2 NLT. Happy reading!

Upcoming Art Shows: Various Flyers to a Busy & Colorful December!

2010-12-02T15:48:00.003-08:00

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Arts: Emek Booksigning & Exhibit

2010-12-02T15:27:00.001-08:00

(Click on images to zoom in)

Collected together in a book for the first time is a retrospective of 20 years of EMEK's rock n' roll art

as well as his editorial illustrations and protest posters showing his work in amazing detail.

Limited Edition signed print (exclusive to this signing) included with book purchase.

272 Pages, Hardcover, Hundreds of Color Illustrations, Glow-In-The-Dark Cover.

Published by Ginko Press

Artist Signing and Art Exhibition

Saturday December 4th ***

7-10 p.m.

7511 W. Hollywood Blvd.***

Hollywood, CA 90046

www.mrmusichead.com

Any Questions? 323.876.0042

Music: DJ Charles X aka 215

2010-12-02T01:28:00.000-08:00

Don't sleep on my bro's boogie action!

"This is a test press......white label test press"

A random teaser vid featuring DJ Charles X aka 215 (The Jedi in a Versace belt)

testing the new mixer goodies to some electrotek boogie.

More videos of feet shuffling action coming at ya' soon!

Stay tuned kiddos!

Link to Charles X's Free MP3 Zshare Download:

"Aliens In Ur Brain" (Electro-Tech-House Mix - 144.41 MB)

Link to Charles X's Soundcloud Profile

ELEKTROTEK.1 by CHARLESX

Booking 411:

E-mail: dj215777@yahoo.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dj215777

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/dj215777

Old Skool Videos: "The Crayola Crayon Factory" & "Red Ball 1, 2, 3"

2010-11-30T21:49:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosssssssh!

Rummaging through seemingly forgotten memories of my childhood pursuits, I conducted a search of old videos that I cannot erase from the good ole' memory bank. I found some of my faves! The Crayola Crayon Factory! Red Ball 1, 2, 3! (A feeling of fluttering butterflies invaded my stomach and floated up my chest)...oh, happy day!

As a child, I first saw the crayon video in the Mister Rogers show! I dreamed of working there someday, haha!

Along with the Mr. Rogers video, I also found the Sesame Street version. Although, both are the same footage, the Sesame Street video is the best, pan down! It leaves out the unnecessary blabbing, and leaves it to your wildest imaginations to interpret the process of creating sticks of colorful rainbow wax!

What was your favorite color?

Cerulean was mine!

Can't forget the rolling track ball video below either! Yesssssssss!!!

Listen to the BIT music! Haha!

Artist Spotlight: RaskOpticon

2010-11-30T13:56:00.000-08:00

Artist Spotlight:

RaskOpticon

Be sure to pick up the upcoming Lowrider Arte Magazine (December/January edition) featuring my good friend RaskOpticon a.k.a. "The Jack of All Trades," gracing a full-color, 10-page article of pure sickness!

RaskOpticon has managed to stay afloat in various artistic outlets (which is a tell-tale sign of true talent), from graffiti murals, to airbrushing, graphic and web design, clothing design, illustration, fine art, and now tapping into the tattoo inking business. You can view more work displayed on his website: Distortion of Life.

Keep an eye on this guy....he's the cream of the crop, only to rise to the top!

Take a sneak-peek below into some exclusive goods coming at you next month (images used with permission)...

Below are some images of his canvas artwork & digital design...more images on his website:
RaskOpticon - DistortionOfLife.com

Neighborly Love: The LB Rescue Mission to Shelter & Feed Homeless During Winter

2010-11-30T13:53:00.000-08:00

Story derived from: The Press Telegram

A Place for Winter

LONG BEACH: Rescue Mission opens seasonal location on Wednesday

By Paul Eakins, Staff Writer

Posted: 11/29/2010 08:32:15 PM PST

Updated: 11/29/2010 09:56:10 PM PST

The Rev. Jim Lewis, chief executive officer of the Long Beach Rescue Mission, is busy preparing the winter shelter, which is due to open Wednesday. The shelter will sleep 150 and offer hot food. (Brittany Murray / Press-Telegram)

LONG BEACH - After scrambling to find a winter shelter site year after year, the Long Beach Rescue Mission has bought what may become a permanent location when the shelter opens Wednesday.

The winter shelter will open at the former Atlantic Farms grocery store at 6845 Atlantic Ave. in North Long Beach. The shelter won't take walk-ins, but people can catch a shuttle bus to the shelter each afternoon from Wednesday through March 15 at three locations in Long Beach and San Pedro.

"One of our hopes is to break the cycle of homelessness," said the Rev. Jim Lewis, president and CEO of the nonprofit Rescue Mission, adding that when people go the Multiservice Center to get taken to the shelter they get access to other services as well.

Lewis said that the new building's primary purpose isn't as a shelter, but to serve as a warehouse for clothes, food and other donations the organization receives.

It will also house the winter shelter this year and could continue to be used as a shelter in the future "if it's found to be appropriate," Lewis said.

He noted that the shelter is far from the services on which the homeless rely, such as the downtown Multiservice Center nine miles away.

"That's a concern as far as how will this work on a long-term basis. We have to make sure that it works," Lewis said. "At this point we don't have an alternative."

Finding a location at all has always been a challenge for the Rescue Mission.

Year after year the mission has worked to line up a viable building that could be rented for just three months for the temporary shelter.

In April, the mission's foundation purchased the empty building for $3 million, Lewis said. He said the mission plans to offset the cost by selling nearby property where the mission's thrift store is located on Pine Avenue for a mixed- income housing project.

John Bosselmann smooths the concrete flooring for the Long Beach Rescue Mission as volunteers are busy preparing the Winter Shelter, scheduled to open on December 1. (Brittany Murray / Press Telegram)

At the shelter Monday, volunteers worked to prepare the building for its guests, removing piping and electrical wires left over from the market and filling holes in the concrete floor.

A heater has been installed in the building, along with a dining area where guests will be served breakfast and dinner. Green cots line the warehouse floor. Temporary showers will also be installed once the shelter has the proper permits.

Although the shelter only operates from late afternoon until morning, closing by 8 a.m. after shuttling guests back to downtown or San Pedro, it will remain open all day in the event of rain, Lewis said.

The Rescue Mission runs the shelter under a roughly $300,000 contract with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority for residents of Long Beach and the South Bay, Lewis said. The mission must provide 150 beds and is paid about $20 per guest per night.

About 30 staff members, including two or three case workers, keep the shelter running through the winter, Lewis said.

Calvin J. Fortenberry, director of communications, said the Rescue Mission is one of 13 agencies countywide that provide 1,700 emergency beds during the winter.

LAHSA is funded by the city and county of Los Angeles and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

paul.eakins@presstelegram.com, 562-499-1278

How to get to the winter shelter

The homeless can escape the cold by getting a shuttle to the Long Beach Rescue Mission's winter shelter at the following locations:

San Pedro Channel Street Park and Ride, 610 Channel St. Pickup time is 4:15 p.m.
Long Beach Multiservice Center, 1301 W. 12th St. Pickup time is 4:30 p.m.
Long Beach First Congregational Church,
241 Cedar Ave. (LB) Pickup time is 5:30 p.m.

All pickup times are approximate.

Dinner and breakfast are provided at the shelter, which closes each morning.

No drugs, alcohol or weapons are allowed.

Call 211 or go to www.lahsa.org for information on all of the homeless services available in Los Angeles County.

POSTPONED --> Events: Hip Hop Rocks 4 Autism

2010-11-18T13:23:00.001-08:00

POSTPONED FOR 2011!!!
On the flipside, Toys 4 Tijuana's Children will he held this day...please read Dec.10th post. Thanks!

(click on image to zoom in)

HIP HOP ROCKS 4 AUTISM

This will be a charity event for Autism. The idea was envisioned by Miss Kiwi and this is something very close to home for her and her family. Let’s help her and help the cause by being part of this event!

Some performers are already confirmed! But still looking for more!

Interested bands and Performers contact:

http://www.efrenluna.webs.com

They are looking for artists to donate artworks to be auctioned off during the event and the proceeds will be donated to organizations fighting Autism.

This event is planned to take place. Some of the details are being worked out and new information will be updated.

Outer Space: NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day Archive

2010-11-17T00:12:00.000-08:00

Discover the cosmos!

This is a very neat and interesting archive that features a daily NASA Astronomy Picture with a brief detailed description by a professional astronomer.

Click this --> LINK to view years worth of breathtaking photographs.

Below are a few samples from the same website...

Photography: Valerie Jocelyn Bower

2010-11-16T12:10:00.000-08:00

A girl's world's view captured in a moment's time, through the lens of an old school Minolta X700.

Check out my friend's individuality and stand alone uniqueness shown on her new website,

www.valeriejocelynbower.com.

Below is a sneak peek at her goods, enjoy!

(All images are derived with permission of the owner)

Video: "Mickey's Trailer" - Roaaaaaaaaaaad Triiiiiiiiiiiip!

2010-11-11T15:10:00.000-08:00

Childhood flashback! My favorite Disney cartoon short ever! Mickey & friends go on a road trip adventure in an RV cross-country...enjoy!

Events: The 12th Annual ThanksGivends Benefit

2010-11-11T10:19:00.001-08:00

(Click on image to zoom in)

It's that time of year again when the L.A. and So.Cal underground come together for a special night!

The 12th Annual ThanksGivends Benefit event benefits and helps promote arts programs for disadvantaged youth in the community.

This event will be hosted at Club 740 in Downtown L.A. and will feature over 30+ D.J.'s, 3 areas, 60+ organizations, labels, clothing, marketing, and film. Participants coming soon! Stay tuned for a list of all! Get ready!

Wednesday - November 24th, 2010

9:00 pm - 3:00 am

21+ *** $10 cover

All styles/genres of music *** $10 donation suggested

Club 740

740 South Broadway

Los Angeles, CA 90014

RSVP Email: thanksgivendsinfo@walktalkin.com

Contact Email: thanksgivendsinfo@walktalkin.com

Links

Direct Link: http://fusicology.com/event/?event_id=36709

Short URL: http://fuse.ms/awWcfv

Venue URL: http://www.740la.com

Other URL: http://www.facebook.com/search.php?init=quick&q=thanks%20givends&tas=0.692615717300394&ref=ts#!/event.php?eid=159332874105368

Artist Spotlight: Damon Conklin

2010-11-10T22:13:00.000-08:00

Artist Spotlight:

Damon Conklin

Tattoo and Art Extraordinaire

I've been itching to feature a post on Damon Conklin for quite some time. Mostly recognized for his tattoo super-genius, his paintings reveal paintbrush instinct. Surprisingly enough, despite the many years of his artistic experience, his first solo art show was exhibited in 2009. He owns a tattoo shop in the Seattle, Washington region and is founder of The Annual Seattle Tattoo Convention.

"Owner of SuperGenius, and founder of The Annual Seattle Tattoo Convention. Damon has been featured in every major tattoo publication around the world, as well as many “mainstream” publications such as Smithsonian. Skin Art magazine has dubbed Conklin among “today’s top 20 most influential tattooists”. (Web Source: Seattle Tattoos).

"I'm into art ...BIG TIME!!! I love to oil paint and tattoo I love traveling and have been to some pretty awesome places I'm a half black butt rocker but I like jazz old country punk rock many different types of techno rap music. I like good food I like to be active. I admire and respect power. I love Jesus and I love people. I try to be useful which makes me a pretty good leader and I most certainly know how to have a great time however I usually choose to have a rewarding time." (Web Source: Verbatim, Damon Conklin's Profile).

Below are some images of his work I've collected over the years...enjoy!

S.O.S. Update: FOUND! She's been found!

2010-11-09T19:01:00.000-08:00

Thank God!

Just heard word that she has been found in Hollywood, CA

and is okay.

Praise the Lord, for He is good!

S.O.S: Missing Deaf Person Alert in Long Beach, CA

2010-11-09T10:18:00.001-08:00

Reposting for a friend:

Missing since the 4th of November, someone found her wallet on 1st and Elm Avenue. She's not from Long Beach, and is only familiar with a small area in the East Village. Please contact the Long Beach Police Department with any information on her whereabouts. Please pray for her safe return. If you're in Long Beach, please keep your antennas on full alert!

Arts: The Treehouse Presents "Queens" - All Female Artist/Selectress Line-Up

2010-11-02T00:19:00.000-07:00

Come by The Treehouse Gallery during San Pedro's

famed First Thursday's Art Walk to view my work

alongside creative gals - artistically and musically!

(click on image to zoom in)

See you there!

Events: DJ'S for Peace (Flyer)

2010-10-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

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Events: Mike V Glory Bound Festival

2010-10-05T21:36:00.001-07:00

Mike V, Tony Alva, Steve Caballero,

Christian Hosoi, & more!

PRESS RELEASE

September 27, 2010

For Immediate Release

MIKE VALLELY ANNOUNCES FIRST ANNUAL “GLORY BOUND FESTIVAL” PRESENTED BY KROQ & RADD / My Safe Ride Home (MSRH)

SKATE LEGEND AND POP CULTURE ICON TO BRING “SENSATIONAL DAY OF LIVE AND LOUD MUSIC, HARD AND FAST SKATEBOARDING” TO LOS ANGELES

World renowned skateboarding hero MIKE VALLELY (pronounced VAL-ə-lee; also known as MIKE V) has announced plans for the first annual “GLORY BOUND FESTIVAL”; set to take place on Saturday, November 13 at Los Angeles’ legendary Hollywood Palladium. Hot on the heels of MIKE V’s hugely successful “Glory Bound Skatepark Tour”, which hit 24 U.S. cities this summer, the “Glory Bound Festival” ramps everything up ten notches, promising “A sensational day of live and loud music and hard and fast skateboarding.” Skateboarding and music share a deep and meaningful history and on November 13, these two worlds are set to collide head on.

Named for and curated by MIKE V -- the iconic ambassador of skateboarding – the mega event will feature an outdoor professional skateboarding All Star jam, dubbed “The Legends Jam,” which will spotlight some of the most esteemed and groundbreaking professional skaters of all time. The show will take place on a custom made 40 foot wide, six foot high mini ramp. Already confirmed for the “Glory Bound Festival” is one of the original “Z-Boys”, Tony Alva, a legendary member of the world famous “Bones Brigade”, Steve Caballero and celebrated skate heroes Christian Hosoi and Lance Mountain, all of whom will join MIKE V and a host of others for an unequaled show of skateboarding prowess that is sure to live in infamy. A special festival “vendor village” replete with a number of LA’s famous food trucks will flank the exhibition.

The skateboarding portion of the “Glory Bound Festival” will be immediately followed by a live concert headlined by seminal west coast punk bandPENNYWISE. Joining PENNYWISE at the event will be celebrated Chicago punk band ALKALINE TRIO, Arizona-based punk rock stalwarts AUTHORITY ZERO, SoCal’s NATIONS AFIRE and the host himself – MIKE V -- performing with his new band BANISHED (featuring members of Revolution Mother, Throwdown, Mean Season and The Suicide File).

"I've always thought that a skate and music festival could be done better than any of the events I've ever attended or participated in,” commentedVALLELY. “Instead of the music or skating being secondary to the other, I think it's important to give both arts their own time and respect. With the “Glory Bound Festival” I aim to get it right once and for all. By including the World’s most legendary skaters for a one hour jam and also today’s top punk bands, this event is rooted deep in both culture and substance. The “Glory Bound Festival” isn't about chasing the flavor of the month, but instead creating a forum for bands and skaters with real style, attitude and originality to shine."

"Having Pennywise and Alkaline Trio play after watching Tony Alva and Steve Caballero skate, I just don't think it gets any better than that,” he continues. “Not only is this an event that speaks to teenagers, I think it's also a generational event where moms and dads can bring the kids out and show them how it's really done."

Presented by the World Famous KROQ 106.7 and RADD/MSRH in association with IndieMerchStore.com and Good Fight Entertainment and brought to you by Jakprints, By The Sword Skateboards, Live Nation, The Agency Group, & Super Heat Trading Cards, the “Glory Bound Festival” promises an A-level offering of both sports and music entertainment that will capture the imagination of the most casual observer, while delivering unrelenting high energy action that is sure to indulge the diehards. The official “Glory Bound Festival” admat can be viewed at this location and advance tickets to the event can be purchased by visiting www.ticketmaster.com.

Arts: Katy Crowe - Rebidishu Two: Recent Paintings

2010-10-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

LAHC Fine Arts Gallery

Presents

Katy Crowe

Rebidishu Two

Recent Paintings

Curated by Ron Linden

September 25 - November 13, 2010

Los Angeles Harbor College

Fine Arts Gallery

1111 Figueroa Place

Wilmington, CA 90744

Gallery Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 11am - 5pm

and by appointment

(310) 233-4411 or (310) 600-4873

Video: Massive Air & Sea Predator Collaboration: The Sardine Run

2010-10-04T01:05:00.001-07:00

Wow!

Video: Injured Baby Hummingbird Nursed Back to Health

2010-10-04T00:52:00.000-07:00

Awwwwwwwwwwwww!

Video: Leo Buscaglia Recites "Things You Didn't Do"

2010-10-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

I was introduced to the ideologies of world-renown motivational speaker/therapist/counselor/psychologist/man-with-a-big-heart, Leo Buscaglia , in my Interpersonal Communications Speech class. We watched a video of one of his many and lively seminars, revolving around the topic of love, and frankly, it left quite an impression on me. He stresses that love is universal, is transcending, is survival, and among many other wonderful characteristics, it is beautiful. Another realization about love, is that it can only be expressed, shown, given, and received while in the moment; in other words, while still alive and breathing.

Below are some thoughtful quotes from Leo Buscaglia, and a short video of him reciting a poem from one of his former students, titled "Things You Didn't Do." It may tug at a heart string or two, so you might want to keep a tissue handy.

From my ♥ to yours,

"Doña Licha"

***

"Love is always bestowed as a gift - freely, willingly and without expectation. We don't love to be loved; we love to love."

"Love is always open arms. If you close your arms about love you will find that you are left holding only yourself."

"Only the weak are cruel. Gentleness can only be expected from the strong."

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."

"The fact that I can plant a seed and it becomes a flower, share a bit of knowledge and it becomes another's, smile at someone and receive a smile in return, are to me continual spiritual exercises."

"Your talent is God's gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God."

"Death is a challenge. It tells us not to waste time... It tells us to tell each other right now that we love each other."

"If I don't have wisdom, I can teach you only ignorance."

"Change is the end result of all true learning."

(All quotes: Leo Buscaglia. Verbatim).

***

Ethics: Guatemala, the Newest Tuskeegee Experiment-like Scandal

2010-10-01T15:26:00.001-07:00

Photo Recap: The Harbor Area Art & Music Gathering Photos by Emilio Venegas Jr.

2010-09-27T19:37:00.000-07:00

Oh, how hot it was! A perfect day to host "The Harbor Area Art & Music Gathering" at our local Smokin Coffin shop in Wilmington. Thanks to all the participants! All the creative artists, musical talent, bountiful vendors, and of course, all who came to support. Fun times!

Below are some photos taken early on in the show (therefore, some art isn't featured) from the talented photographer Emilio Venegas Jr. You can view more of this album and other work he has posted on his personal Shutterfly account here:http://lastoftheromantics.shutterfly.com/photos

(Stay tuned for more info on the next HxA event)

(Click on images to zoom in)

Artist Spotlight: Shigeo Fukuda

2010-09-25T01:39:00.000-07:00

Artist Spotlight:

Shigeo Fukuda

If you haven't seen artwork from the man featured above, you are in for a treat! Shigeo Fukuda was born February 4, 1932, a talented all-around artist, and sadly passed away on January 11, 2009. He graduated from Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and music in 1956. Most of his work consisted of optical illusions and graphic arts. Click on the images below to zoom in on his work. Enjoy!

Video: Swallowed by a Giant Wall of Sand

2010-09-25T00:40:00.000-07:00

Arts: Ben Strawn & Roland Tamayo @ G1988 LA

2010-09-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

(Click on image to zoom in)

Events: LAartlab @ B-Boy Summit

2010-09-23T21:37:00.001-07:00

LAartlab is an independent all volunteer collective helping teens and young adults engage in various facets of the Los Angeles art scene and California's creative economy by providing them with opportunities to help design, produce and host art events.

LAartlab came about as a response to a number of challenges facing the youth in Los Angeles

including: a high unemployment rate, shortage of public school art programs, general lack of

funding for the arts and extremely limited opportunities for teens to become actively involved

in shaping the arts community.

LAartlab will be helping out at the 2010 B-Boy Summit, an international showcase of Hip-Hop Culture!

The B-Boy Summit continues to be the major trendsetter in Hip-Hop street dance, art and music

lifestyle culture. Established in 1994, the Summit sprang forth-innovative ideas in Hip-Hop culture, offering a conference forum complete with competitions, performances, panels and workshops. The Bboy Summit is dedicated to bring the hottest street dance, art, and music above ground tothe masses.

For more info and eventupdates visit: BBoysummit.com

(click on image to zoom in)

Video: Sixpence None the Richer - Breathe your Name

2010-09-22T17:15:00.000-07:00

Events: Mr.Funky Book Signing + Trunk Show

2010-09-19T23:22:00.001-07:00

Super cute accessories at the recent grand opening of Leanna Lin's Wonderland!

Meet designer NARUMI OGAWA of MR. FUNKY as she signs copies of her best selling book *Super Crochet Wonderful* Be the first to see her Fall/Holiday FUNKY crochet animals + super cute accessories! http://misterfunky.com/

***SPECIAL APPEARANCES FROM THESE YUMMY DELIGHTS***
LIL RAE CAKES and her *award winning* colorful cake balls!
LOMO ARIGATO with their *Peruvian + Japanese fusion cuisine* truck

http://www.jenny-rae.com/
http://www.lomoarigato.com/

Saturday, October 9 · 6:00pm - 10:00pm

Leanna Lin's Wonderland

5024 Eagle Rock Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA

Video: Insight - Overkill with Jamie Thomas

2010-09-14T22:47:00.000-07:00

Makeshift skate playground (graffitied abandoned building + arid desert) + Jamie Thomas - broken bones = 2 thumbs up!

Events: DJ'S for Peace

2010-09-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

What's better than enjoying a day in the park with a huge sound system, great DJ's, and positive vibes? Gathering food, clothing, and toy donations for the needy!

FREE EVENT - 10+ DJ's - October 31, 2010

Location:

Woodley Park

6335 Woodley Ave.

Van Nuys, CA 91406

View Larger Map

Video: Jason Mraz visits Ghana with Free the Slaves

2010-09-12T23:39:00.001-07:00

Below is a video of an eye-opening interview of singer Jason Mraz describing his visit to Ghana with Free the Slaves, and anti-human trafficking and anti-slavery non-profit organization. More information on these topics can be found at www.freetheslaves.net.

Watch live streaming video from aplive at livestream.com

Arts: Scion presents Nova Artscapes

2010-09-12T22:22:00.000-07:00

Scion presents: NOVA Artscapes

Curated by ROJO® Magazine

September 18 - October 9, 2010

ROJO® is an open independent creative consortium founded in 2001, dedicated to the promotion and support of the contemporary arts. ROJO® (with creative headquarters in Barcelona, São Paulo, and Milan) travels to Los Angeles to generate a creative event and art exhibition featuring exclusive collaborated art installations and original artwork by 8 international artists.

Opening Reception: Saturday, September 18 | 7-10pm

Featuring:
Gustavo Gagliardo aka DEFI (Argentina), Koen Delaere (Netherlands), MOMO (USA), Anna Taratiel aka OVNI (Spain), Rebecca Ward (USA), Sosaku Miyazaki (Japan), Tofer Chin (USA), Yago Hortal (Spain)

Complimentary Valet & Open Bar

Scion Installation L.A.
3521 Helms Ave (at National)
Culver City, CA. 90232
Gallery Phone: 310.815.8840

Hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 11 AM - 6 PM & by appointment

Artist Spotlight: Nathan Smith

2010-09-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

Artist Spotlight:

Nathan Smith

A Southern Californian currently residing in the San Francisco Bay area, Nathan Smith's artwork is grasping and engaging. His creative work reveals graffiti roots, shows calligraphic styles plus font variations, and gold leaf shines light on what seems like a road of self-discovery. Be sure to keep checking in to see my friend's ever-evolving work on display at www.nathansmithart.com.

Below are some pictures of his wonderful work

(derived from website with permission from artist himself).

Click on images to zoom in. Enjoy!

Arts: Day of the Dead Art Exhibit

2010-09-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

Another show I'll be featuring some new art in:

Day of the Dead

Curated by Antonio Pelayo

Presented by Damian Useda

(click on images to zoom in)

El Dia de Muertos

How It is Celebrated Today, History & Origins

From the beginning of time, man has felt the need to explain the mystery of life and death. Many civilizations and cultures have created rituals to try and give meaning to human existence.

· Where do we come from?

· Why does life end?

· Is there "life" after death?

· If so, what kind of "life"?

· Can we do something while alive so we can enjoy "life" after death?

These are some of the questions man has asked himself in order to understand our finite existence on this earth.

To the indigenous peoples of Mexico, death was considered the passage to a new life and so the deceased were buried with many of their personal objects, which they would need in the hereafter. Many times even their pets were sacrificed so they would accompany their masters on their long journey.

From pre Columbian times, El Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead has been celebrated in Mexico, and other Latin countries. This is a very special ritual, since it is the day in which the living remember their departed relatives. Sometimes, when people of other cultures hear for the first time about the celebration of the Day of the Dead, they mistakenly think it must be: gruesome, terrifying, scary, ugly and sad. Nothing further from the truth, Day of the Dead is a beautiful ritual in which we all happily and lovingly remember their loved relatives that have died. Much like when we go to a graveyard to leave some lovely flowers on a tomb of a relative.

May Herz

Join us as we celebrate with a special art Exhibit and an after party Oct 30th at Sabor Lounge!

Featured Artists

alfie numeric

gino espinosa

j. neftali gonzalez

orestes gonzalez

dennis mendez

jeff lee

ernest anguiano

susan molina

carlos marquez

edward de la torre

pablo damas

ralph silerio

antonio pelayo

alejandra ramos

kristy sandoval

kopye

timoi de leon

salvador santana

grande

dfrnt

October 30th

Art reception 7-9pm

After party 9pm-3am Music by DJ Audio

Free all night

$5/ Valet Parking

Sabor Lounge

847 S Union Ave

LA 90017

Events: The Harbor Area Art & Music Gathering

2010-09-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

The Harbor Area Art & Music Gathering

(click on image to zoom in)

Live Musical Performances by:

Quinto Sol

Saints & Sinners

District Divided

Chazzy

Asia Steez

Mr. Devius

Live Art by:

Vyal

Cristina Jimenez

Art Exhibit Featuring:

Xplode

Sandra Lopez-Laguna

Swoe

Joe Guzman

Pinche Michi

Irok

Natus

Alex LiCausi

Spor

Chatismo

Leanna Cortez

Kiosk

Emilio Venegas Jr.

Danny Critter

Opia

& More...

Come and enjoy this upcoming Sunday with some Music, Art, Vendors, and Good Times. All happening at:

Smokin Coffin

1606 N. Wilmington Blvd.

Wilmington, CA 90744

Sunday - September 26th, 2010

12:00 - 6:00 PM

Entrance: $3

Please come in peace and respect the space, thank you.

(click on image to zoom in)

Video: Geoff McFetridge to Golden Cage by Whitest Boy Alive

2010-09-04T16:34:00.000-07:00

Have you seen Beautiful Losers? It's a documentary film on loose-knit artists such as Espo, Barry McGee a.k.a. Twist, Toy Machine skate vet Ed Templeton, his wife Deanna Templeton, and lots more. Geoff McFetridge is one of the artists featured in this film, and he explained a bit on his views on his artwork, a view I can relate to at this point in my life. Life is like a matrix, and perceptions that form the layers that lie underneath, and literally, the lies that lie underneath. Pretty cool!

Anyway, below the quote, is a video that Geoff animated to "Golden Cage" from Whitest Boy Alive. It reminds me of the peeling back of layers, the thing, within the thing, within the thing, within the thing.......Enjoy!

"That's awesome! This person has this whole thing with what I'm doing, and I can kind of see it, like there's some sort of, like, the vague-ity of what I do. Like it's like vague messaging, where it's like, got a kinda positivity to it."

"There are these moments, that I like try and create in my work where you kind of lose yourself a little bit, where you are looking at something that's familiar but you don't know, and you have a relationship to it, but you don't really know what that is, and then you're reading some piece of text, that you're like, it's like telling you something, and I think when it's like, that's there's like spirituality in that, in some way, I think there's like some kind of losing yourself, and ah, kind of like, ah, you know? You're changing your view on things a little bit, maybe." (Verbatim. Geoff McFetridge. Film: Beautiful Losers. 2008.).

Golden Cage - whitest boy alive
Uploaded by sabotage. - Watch more music videos, in HD!

Events: ARTIST CALL OUT! for local Smokin Coffin Punk/Thrash Show

2010-08-31T23:54:00.000-07:00

Please click on the image below to zoom in on details...

***Please note: show date is for

SUNDAY (not Saturday) the 26th.***

Events: Pato Banton @ Alex's Bar in LBC

2010-08-29T00:24:00.000-07:00

Pato Banton, Dub Passenjah, and LB Liberators in Long Beach

September 17, 2010

Alex's Bar

2913 East Anaheim Street

Long Beach, CA 90804

Cover: $10 - 21+

Book Review: Think Differently, Live Differently by Bob Hamp

2010-08-28T23:58:00.000-07:00

Here is a wonderful book in setting, not just the Christ believer free from bondage and strongholds, but all whom have ears to hear, have eyes to see, and have an open and giving heart. Fly high above the mountain tops, high in the sky, beyond the clouds, like a free bird. Blessings! Link.

"Selah" (pause and let this sink in...) - King David of Israel

"...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:31