meet geraldine at .blogspot .com

Eyes Wide Open

2011-12-31T01:38:00.000-08:00

For the past couple days I've been heavily acknowledged by my colleagues. The comments touched my heart and gave me the ability to re-discover who I truly am and who I have been for other people.

I've also been observing judgements I've made of people in my mind. I'm committing myself to keep aware of these thoughts as they come up. I want to see greatness in the future for myself and for everyone that I come into contact with from this point forward.

Eyes wide open.

-MeetGeraldine.

A message from Simon Sinek

2011-02-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

Simon Sinek is one of my favorite authors. I'm signed up on his newsletter. Here is the latest and greatest.

Good Marketing vs. Bad Marketing on Re:Focus

Good marketing offers us a view of the world.
Bad marketing offers you a product to buy.

Good marketing speaks for us.
Bad marketing speaks at us.

Good marketing starts with a cause.
Bad marketing starts with a goal.

Good marketing drives loyalty.
Bad marketing drives transactions.

Good marketing promotes values.
Bad marketing values promotions.

Good marketing tells us exactly what a company really thinks.
Bad marketing tells us what the company thinks they want us to think they think.

Good marketing seduces.
Bad marketing targets.

Good marketing never mentions price.
Bad marketing always mentions price.

Good marketing uses the products to help tell a story.
Bad marketing tells stories about products.

Good marketing is about us.
Bad marketing is about them.

Bad marketing manipulates.
Good marketing inspires.

For more info on Simon visit: www.simonsinek.com

Obama!

2011-01-29T01:19:00.001-08:00

Excellent piece. Great job Angie!

Hello Mr. President!

All about tipping.

2010-05-23T00:29:00.000-07:00

I've learned a lot since my last post in January. For those of you that may not know my primary hustle/job/position/career (whatever you'd like to label it as) since January of 2009 has been as a manager of a beautiful restaurant in oakland, ca (with delicious food) called, Spice Monkey.

One of the most informative and practical things that I have learned about while working in the service/hospitality industry has been "tipping"...The why and how it works. I am posting this because previous to this career change, I had no clue.

In the midst of observing my staff, I've realized that the way people do or do not tip (even in the midst of excellent service) can sometimes be taken personally.

Here are the facts...

#1 - Servers make a low amount hourly. Usually minimum wage.

#2 - Several restaurants require their servers to "tip-out" the people who assist them with table service. This can be the kitchen staff, bussers, bartender, it all depends on the restaurant. The amount tipped out varies. Generally 10 - 15% of tips.

#3 - The proper amount to tip is 18% before tax.

#4 - If you are dining with a group and gratuity is not already included on your bill, NEVER ask the server to charge the amount of your food (already including your tip amount) then assume that your homies are gonna tip for you.

I admit, I used to tip shitty 20% of the time. The main reasons were that occasionally I was low on cash and was not in a position where I could tip well or the food took too long and my server did not come to check on me.

If I'd known fact #2 maybe I'd take my food to-go instead OR give my server the heads up that I wanted to tip them better, but I wasn't able to because I was low on funds. I often find that my servers give excellent service and get really bummed/disappointed when they are left a low tip. They often wonder what they'd done wrong. Since I used to be that way, I realize that sometimes they did nothing wrong. Sometimes it may be unawareness on the customer's part. Lesson for fact #2 is in most cases you're not only tipping your server, your tipping the staff. If you have a complaint, tipping shitty won't do much except for leave the server emotional. Service or attitude issues will not be addressed just because you didn't tip. Leave feedback or talk with a manager instead.

Regarding fact #4 - when having your credit card charged in a small group, add up how much your portion of the bill was and ask your server to charge that amount, then write in the tip yourself. Why? Sometimes other people tip poorly. Often what happens is if you ask your server to charge your portion of the bill (including the tip) on your card, your homey says, "put the rest on this card". THEN they only tip based on what was charged on their card (which is lower than what they really had) because you asked the server to deduct your portion of the food + your tip. The person paying for "the rest" often does not really know how much their food costed because they didn't wanna deal with the bill splitting or was too busy talking the whole time.

Right??

So now... I always tip what's fair. Don't get me wrong, I might not tip 18% or more if I got poor service, but I will NEVER tip zero.

First Post of the New Year: Random Facts

2010-01-11T10:39:00.001-08:00

happy new year peeps.

i was on this site today and read some interesting things. here are what they are and my initial responses. follow the link for more...

"During good sex, endorphines are released, which are powerful painkillers. So headaches are in fact a bad excuse not to have sex"
**does not always prove to be true. at least not for cumming. why?

Kissing is healthier than shaking hands
**disturbing but true. wash your hands people!

Ants never sleep
**bastards.

Humans and bonobo monkeys (pygmy chimpanzee) are the only species who have face-to-face sex.
**hmm... interesting. guess that's what they mean by animal sex. (from the back)

Among older men, vanilla is the most erotic smell.
**women, never wear vanilla.

Cold showers stimulate your sex drive
**don't know if i'd dare to try.

Music can help reduce chronic pain by more than 20% and can alleviate depression by up to 25%.
**that's the truth.

have a good day y'all!

berro.com

The Ingrid Michaelson Widget. One song a day.

2009-08-20T21:41:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 15th - Featuring: Impromptu Trio & DJ Bluz

2009-08-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

I was debating whether to have a birthday shindig this year. Around the time of my birthday, I usually have 4 different dinners. One with my fam and three others with certain groups of friends and co-workers. I looked into having my party at different bars in the city, somethin' real casual, DJs spinnin and people mingling, having a good time. Long story short, I looked into it and gave up. It seemed like much to plan.

As I was booking for the August events schedule at Spice Monkey ( a restaurant that's the bomb, by the way ), it occurred to me that I really wanted one of my best friends, Hyp and his new band to perform.

Last month, he put together a ensemble called, "Impromptu Trio" consisting of Hyp playing Harp and periodically a handheld drum (I know that sounds mad ignorant, i'll ask him what it's called, ha!), Nyambezi on guitar and Christine Banks on violin. They played for a dinner crowd at Spice Monkey and y'all... IT WAS THE BOMB. I'd never seen anything like it!! I truly wish more folks had been there.

I saw my wish to have a birthday get together as a perfect opportunity for the world to see what I saw. Sadly, last minute we found out that Christine will be out of town. The GOOD NEWS is that instead vocalist, Tiffany Stewart will join Hyp & Nyambezi in Christine's place. So all is not lost and in a way, it's still an "Improptu Trio". (smile*)

Thanks to rmamisay for flyer design (below). And to everyone reading this, please join me on Aug 15th.

heart*

Thursday and Friday Thangs...

2009-07-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 16th, 2009
6:30p - 9:30p

Feel My Grooves Vinyl Record Sale

Sellers servin' up everything from 70s soul, hip-hip, electronic, obscure and rock records.

featuring...
geraldine* of feel my grooves
josh of b-side records
joe duque
randy
arjuna
king most

and more...

FREE ADMISSION...Bring cash to buy vinyl.

The Spice Monkey Loft
1628 Webster Street @ 17th
Oakland, CA 94612

THE CLEARING. A space to clear your worries from the week past.
Our last party. The best one ever.
Friday, July 17th from 10pm - 2am

hosted by: nake & realism*

special guest djs starting @ 8p...
brigidope : amazing zoo crew
mighty
oza from japan : family groove records

featured djs starting at 10pm...
be brown : the people
bluz : the clearing
frank(e) : beathackerz collective (LA)

Bar doors open at 4pm, surprise guest djs at 8p, party starts at 10pm.

MAKE SURE YOU GET ON THE FREE GUESTLIST LIST!
**send an email to: theclearing@aidogroup.com by thursday night with first and last names.

Otis
25 Maiden Lane
SF

More info, previous party pix, etc. - http://theclearing.aidogroup.com

"what would you buy if you won the lottery?"

2009-05-27T21:49:00.001-07:00

i was having a conversation with brigidope and he asked me... "what would you do with your money if you won the lottery? meaning... you have access to everything and you've already paid taxes. what would you buy the next day?"

here was my answer.

*i'd go through the bridge toll crossing a couple times and drop $100 bill to pay for my toll + the folks behind me.

*pay off all of my record store consignments (approx. $500 worth).

*3 pairs of designer jeans that actually fit (i've gotten way slimmer over the past months, my pants don't exactly fit anymore).

*new carpet + installation for my parent's house.

*a pair of dark kicks.

*a new sink/cabinet for the upstairs bathroom at my parent's house.

*buy a two or three $100 southwest gift cards to randomly use later + give one to my cousin jen to fly up from san diego.

****all other purchases take thought, research and consideration.

This is what happens to your old toys...

2009-04-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

Street Artwork In The Town...

2009-04-23T22:36:00.000-07:00

awesome...

Everyone should make their own version of cribs....

2009-04-22T23:56:00.000-07:00

Kissey Featuring on Garth's Show...

2009-04-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

And plugs... "The Clearing" on the April 16th show. Werd. (Click on that date in the right hand column)

Kissey Asplund this Friday! Get your pre-sale tix now!

2009-04-12T15:10:00.000-07:00

Fri, April 17th, '09

"The Clearing" feat. Kissey Asplund
hosted by: nake & realism*

brigidope : amazing zoo crew
bluz : the clearing
be brown: the people
that girl : groove suite
hen boogie : low self discipline/nobody beats the boog

$8 pre-sale tix
$10 Cover // 21 and up
doors open at 9pm

Citizen Space
425 2nd Street, #100
(Between Bryant & Howard)
San Francisco, CA

http://theclearing.aidogroup.com

"the clearing" april press release

The fine ladies and gents of The Clearing, implore you to erase all thoughts of what you think an event should be and embrace a new standard of excellence and exclusivity. The Clearing is bringing together an international cast of characters to present a new type of event, as it officially presents the first of its “Perfect Limited" nights…

Friday, April 17th, join us as we present the historical first ever meeting between two comrades in music: Hen Boogie & Kissey Asplund.

The musical backbone of the night will be provided by the stalwart cast and crew of musical conductors that The Clearing has been known for: That Girl (Groove Suite), Be Brown (The People), Bluz (The Clearing), and Brigidope (The Amazing Zoo Crew).

Members of the Apothecary Mixologist Crew will be on hand, live and direct from New York and Parts Unknown to bring together a libations menu unseen in the Bay Area. Led by nightly host, nakeISM, the ladies and gents of the Apothecary will be providing a special set of cocktails through the night: including the mimosa red (a perfect mimosa served over chilled blood orange infused simple syrup) and the dark and stormy night (dark moonshine rum served in ratio over bundaburg ginger beer and a dash of secret essence).

A variety of never mixed in cocktails will be unveiled in celebration of this special night. Expect dope music, dope vibes, and dope people.

This is a limited engagement. Reserve your space and a chance at charging up you groove and liquid palate by securing presale tickets at: http://theclearing.aidogroup.com

baron zen & oza spins that dope ish tomorrow...

2009-03-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

LUV - "he hit me with his love... got me caught in a wreck i'm a mess"

2009-03-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

one of my favorites*. song goes on repeat.

somber yet calming.

2009-02-21T23:40:00.000-08:00

“Sometimes being a friend means mastering the art of timing. There is a time for silence. A time to let go and allow people to hurl themselves into their own destiny. And a time to prepare to pick up the pieces when it's all over.” - Gloria Naylor

"the clearing" at Spice Monkey in oakland this friday...

2009-02-18T10:28:00.000-08:00

Now THIS is whasup... Baron Zen, Stones Throw.

***an intimate post valentines edition of...
"the clearing" // FRIDAY, 20th FEB 09 // 9pm - 1am

this month @ spice monkey - 1628 webster street @ 17th street, oakland, ca.

hosted by: nake & realism*

with djs...

be brown : the people
brigidope : amazing zoo crew
baron zen : stones throw
presto : spikeypillows.com

$4 ALL NIGHT

dope cuts. sangria specials. prom style photo booth.

http://theclearing.aidogroup.com

early arrival is suggested, space is limited.

street parking. free lot to the right of the venue.

find out more about the venue - www.spicemonkeycafe.com

A Valentine's Day option that will cause salivation of the mouth...

2009-02-12T18:37:00.001-08:00

For those of you who don't know I manage a restaurant in downtown Oakland... Come by this Saturday!

Join us on Feb 14th from 5pm - 10pm for an intimate Pre-Fixe dinner or come by and hang at our Singles Bar (drink specials all night). Either way, we’d love to see you!

“3 Courses of Love”

$ 55 per person (w/ bottle) // $40 per person (w/out bottle)

Soup or Salad

Adam & Eve Salad
Grilled Plum & Green Apple Salad with baked Goat Cheese

Roasted Goodness Soup
Red Roasted Bell Pepper with Sour Cream

Main Entree

Sweetness Steak
Sweet & Sour Skirt Steak with Taro Mash and Veggie Ragout

Cozy Chicken
Braised Chicken with White Wine Shallots on a Huckleberry Couscous

Lovers Moussaka
Veggie Lover Greek Moussaka

Dessert

Chocolate Red Mousse
Chocolate Love Mousse with a house made Pomegranate Whipped Cream

Pear Me Up
Sugar Glazed Bosch Pear Tart with French Vanilla Ice Cream

Beverages (optional)

Fourplay - A delightful interplay between four of Sicily's native grapes, Fourplay is the perfect way to start your evening.

Sparking CAVA Rose - Celebrate the sensuous with light, delicate blush colored bubbles from Spain.

Golden Star (Non- Alcoholic) - Organically made elegant alternative to Champagne with rounded sweetness, complex acidity and a floral nose.

Make your reservations today!

Spice Monkey Restaurant
1628 Webster St @ 17th
Oakland, CA 94612
www.spicemonkeycafe.com
510.268.0170 phone

*gift certificates now available*

Getting Picked Up By Old Men... Is Not the business.

2009-02-12T18:28:00.000-08:00

As I approached the entrance of the Downtown Berkeley BART station (on Shattuck Ave) I was approached by a man who was probably in his 50's. I was going to get onto the escalator and he stopped me...

The convo went like this.

Old Man: "Hey, you have 30 cents so I can get on the train."
Geraldine: "Sure, actually... I don't have 30 cents, but I can give you a dollar is that coo?" (I was in a generous mood today)...
**I then proceed to take money our of my pocket.**
Old Man: **he sees a $10 bill**
"Oooh. You gon' give me that ten? You're pretty."
Geraldine: "Here's a dollar, what's your name?"
Old Man: "Steven, can i... can i... Come to the side real quick. You have a phone number that you can give to me?"
Geraldine: "I do have a phone number but I cannot give it to you."
Old Man: "Why not?"
Geraldine: **sticks out her hand to shake his**
"It was nice meeting you Steven, have a good day"
Old Man: **sticks out a finger for me to shake, since he's holding the dollar in the rest of his hand**

"Getting Picked Up By Old Men... (and at BART) Is Not the business."

Just how i remember it...

2009-02-04T09:52:00.000-08:00

Last night a friend of mine told me about the "way back machine". The way back machine is an internet archive search engine. Meaning.. You can look up and sometimes see sites that no longer exist. Back in my day of being really conceded and vain, I had a couple sites that were pretty me-centric.

The first was "worldism.com" - everything related to me as a person and as my rap persona.

The second was "feelmygrooves.com" - my artist management company back in the late 90s, early 2000. its a shame that i do not have that domain name anymore considering its more relevant to the now vinyl record store, feel my grooves vinyl.

snapshots...

Meet Wonway...

2009-02-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

I've known Wonway since the late 90s, back when we hung with the same circle of people and were both emcees. What's funny is I hadn't found out until within the last 5 months that he was a SUPER DOPE DJ too. We invited him to spin at "the clearing" (photo above - thanks miles)... And I caught his set at "The People". Wow. I'm proud of him and everything he's up to.

Bio...
When he's not emceeing with his group Secluded Journalists, his band The Park, or lending his acting talents to places such as Intersection for the Arts or La Peña Cultural Center, Wonway is providing the bay area and beyond with his own distinguishable sound behind the turntables. In his short time back to deejaying on a regular basis, he has already played with Afrika Bambaataa, DJ Eleven, Sake One, the Oakland Faders, & DJ Boogie Blind of the X-ecutioners to name a few. Wonway's selection goes far past the expected HipHop, and regularly dips into Funk, Soul, Salsa, Afro-beat, Jazz, Reggae & more. He holds residencies at "Makossa" with fellow Latin Soul Brother DJ Joe Quixx Tuesdays @ Easy Lounge in Oakland, and the bi-monthly parties "Musiquarium" 1st & 3rd Sundays at Oakland's Water Lounge and "Devil's Pie" 2nd & 4th Thursdays @ Namu Bar in San Francisco.

Wonway's latest mix...Download, Burn, Throw It On Your iPod... ENJOY.
http://www.divshare.com/download/6468572-3bb

Follow Wonway...
www.twitter.com/wonway
www.theparkmusic.com

design that inspires....

2009-01-30T23:13:00.001-08:00

Rest In Peace to a Rock Legend...

2009-01-29T12:12:00.000-08:00

I got an email from Steve @ UK Vibe announcing that British Singer, Songwriter & Guitarist, John Martyn had passed this morning.

If you don't know who he is, check out the following YouTube clip + Wiki. He did amazing work over a span of 40 years.

John was also honored by the Queen on New Years with an OBE.

He will be remembered and I will be going onto iTunes today to download some of his tunes to play/reflect on in his memory.

yes, i gave in!

2009-01-28T22:35:00.000-08:00

i am finally on twitter...

follow me if you'd like to - http://www.twitter.com/meetgeraldine

werd.

Interesting Things You Find In The Bathroom...

2009-01-23T02:31:00.000-08:00

send it on....

2009-01-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

how can i refuse...

like a hula hoop...

2009-01-07T14:18:00.001-08:00

Ashkon Like a Hula Hoop from Arlene & Marcin on Vimeo.

some things should never happen...

2009-01-05T08:57:00.000-08:00

i watched the news this morning with my dad and heard a brief clip about this.
a man was shot at fruitvale bart on new years. i wonder what was going on through that cops mind during and after.

i am grateful that my family and friends were safe on that evening and my heart goes out to oscar grant's family.

ktvu has the full detail...

KTVU News Clip

pictures from "the clearing" are up!

2009-01-01T16:16:00.000-08:00

an artistic view of what you've been missing. http://theclearing.aidogroup.com/pictures.htm

Paul Mawhinney

2008-12-31T10:53:00.000-08:00

1 Million Records.

Ben Mono - Protection (Siriusmo remix)

2008-12-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

man... i can't shake this song. its dope. i must of listened to it on repeat on itunes about 20 times today. video is just ok. listen to the track.

friday, dec 19th (tomorrow) "the clearing"

2008-12-18T11:31:00.000-08:00

december specials...
Ladies FREE before 10:30pm
$5 Fernet with Ginger Back Specials ALL NIGHT!

be brown (thePeople)
that girl (groove suite)
brigidope (amazing zoo crew)
bluz (the clearing)

428 3rd St (@ Broadway), Oakland.

this man is an imposter.

2008-12-11T17:35:00.000-08:00

sonic pay

2008-12-09T17:21:00.000-08:00

taken at the drive thru window @ sonic.

all fast food restaurants should do this. that's brilliant!

this weekend...

2008-12-02T01:40:00.001-08:00

This weekend (or more so thursday and friday) we've got options. 3 out of 4 of "The Clearing DJs" are holdin' it down in various locations, here's the info... Check em out. Click on the flyer images to view them bigger.

Thursday, Dec 4th
"Beautiful"
w/ Brigidope + Friends
Otis Lounge
25 Maiden Lane SF
10p-2am

Thursday, Dec 4th
"Groove Suite"
w/ That Girl, Be Brown + Friends
So First Billiards
420 S. 1st Street SJ
9p-2am

Friday, Dec 5th
"Definition"
w/ Brigidope + Friends
Milk Bar
1840 Haight Street SF
10p-2a

I will be at 2 of 3 of these events. Support your favorite DJs.

"We are all Friends of Friends". - Aido Group

jollibee cheezy fries

2008-12-02T01:26:00.000-08:00

if you know me, then you know that i love nachos. i make em all the time.

i passed jollibee the other day and was intrigued by the sign displaying their new "cheezy fries". they looked like chili cheese fries over nacho chips.

i purchased them earlier this evening... all i'll say is... i wish they looked like how they did in the picture. no comment.

savings for those who love the container store!

2008-11-26T12:17:00.000-08:00

oprah is hooking everyone up with a 20% discount at the container store until sunday, november 30th, 2008!

click below to access and print the coupon.

Oprah's Messy House Tour Coupon (The Container Store)

the library...

2008-11-23T21:57:00.000-08:00

(( sorry for the shitty res.. i used my cell phone cam ))

i've always been inspired by really great design. i'd taken a number of courses over the years, i know photoshop pretty well, i can do basic web dev... but i don't really have the creative capacity to put it all together. i just know what i like and i know what i don't like. this morning i was at barnes & noble flippin' through print magazine. there was some pretty ill package design featured in there and some other stuff as well. the image below struck me because 1) i thought it was pretty clever & 2) it brought back some childhood memories.

most children (at least on tv) dream of being astronauts, veterinarians, singers, etc... not me. from kindergarden my first dream profession was to be a librarian. it wasn't even that i loved to read at that age. i just liked the idea of maintaining an inventory. perhaps that's why i ended up being a vinyl record dealer? not to say that i've cataloged every thing in dewy decimal, there was a point in time where everything was organized by genre and cataloged properly into a spreadsheet.

these days, i probably wouldn't be a librarian... but i have thought about working or volunteering at a library. i do like to read.

tomorrow night... "the clearing"

2008-11-20T10:22:00.000-08:00

*friday, nov 21st*

featuring: brigidope, bluz, be brown, wonway, that girl
directions: via google here

introducing "recession halloween"

2008-11-13T12:24:00.000-08:00

shortly after halloween i had a phone convo with my homie, vanessa from new york (well, actually she's from here, but now lives in ny, ya dig?). she explained what recession halloween is. i couldn't stop laughing and urged her to send me pictures to post as an example for y'all.

recession halloween = halloween for folks feeling the effects of the financial crisis on the their pocketbooks aka half ingenuity, half straight up ghetto. the way it works is the folks participating pull together closet finds and duck tape to keep halloween funky!

see examples below...

"trinity from the matrix"

"stepped on gum"

"pumpkins"

"pumpkin costume $0, matrix costume $0, bubble gum on shoe costume $0, the looks on peoples faces when they saw our ghetto ass costumes = priceless" -vanessa

the website is up! ( www.amyserrata.com )

2008-11-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

for the past several months i'd been consulting and working a & r for a bay area artist named, amy serrata. she's a soul singer with a jazzy appeal backed by melodic melodies and hard drum beats.

i also did the backend design for her website
(front end interface by lychee33.com)

check it out and purchase the album if it's your flava, you'll like it ...

halloween with the biz!

2008-11-02T23:49:00.000-08:00

Halloween, probably the only time of year I don't mind hearing dancin' it up to novelty songs like, 2 Live Crew 'Me So Horny' & Eminem 'Slim Shady'... Here's some memories from the night.

The Butt-Out Pants remind me of this too...

the new macbook pro.

2008-10-22T20:38:00.001-07:00

one thing there is to know about me is that i'm constantly in the apple store checking my email and working on their computers. i love the fact that you can walk in and use their internet for free...

they recently came out with the new macbook pro. i know nothing about technical specs, but i do know that the screen is just like the "air" and the keypad is like the old macbooks just silver with black keys (oh and as all the djs point out, a backlit keyboard).

for the past days i've been irritated by how the button on the mouse works. sometimes it treats a click like a "right click". i looked down and realized what exactly is different about this trackpad/mouse. its all one piece! interesting. yet another thing that's different.

short dog in the house!

2008-10-19T00:14:00.000-07:00

after "the clearing" i went to house of chicken and waffles with cam, h, adam & phil.

i noticed too short was there, so i made it a point to take a picture with him.

how it went down:

he was with his girl at the counter seating area, i tapped him on the shoulder and said, "this is super embarrassing, but can i take a picture with you?"

short replies, "yeah... aye, you know how to fight?"

ism (aka me) says, "nah, to tell you the truth... i'm sure i can, but i've never been in a fight."

short, "you look like a superhero. (aye, don't she look like a superhero?)"

ism, "oh werd? (smiles*)"

short, "aight, let's take this picture."

(photo credit: hakim sayyed-terry)

friday: all things soul + riddims in between

2008-10-14T00:40:00.000-07:00

Club Anton / 428 3rd St / Oakland, CA 94607
That Girl, Be Brown, Bluz, Brigidope
$5 all night!
Walking distance from 12th St. BART, 2 blocks from Jack London Square
directions via google: click here
http://theclearing.aidogroup.com

when dressing your child...

2008-10-11T23:48:00.001-07:00

would you choose:

french fries?

or banana?

getting paid to do wine tasting...

2008-10-06T20:53:00.000-07:00

awesome...

old school infomercial...

2008-10-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

for your enjoyment... BEATS FOR YOUR FEETS

me and the naked man...

2008-10-04T09:48:00.001-07:00

in times square.

subways are for sleeping.

2008-10-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

when i was in denver, i found this soundtrack lp. this was the inspiration for a photo study of 17 individuals of different ethnicities and walks of life in new york. the photos were taken at different times of day over a 7 day period. everybody needs sleep, sometimes its on the subway. enjoy...

hello brooklyn.

2008-10-02T13:15:00.001-07:00

i took a trip out to brooklyn, new york a few weeks ago that totally changed my outlook of the state. i used to travel there heavily when i worked in the corporate music industry. my previous experience of ny was always crowded, hectic and the weather sucked (hot and humid) and people were mean.

this time around i stayed for 7 days, the weather was perfect mid 70's with a cool breeze. i spent time with some chill, down to earth folks, ate some really great food and got to know new york in a different way. it was a great vacation... just what i needed to come back and get back on track in the midst of multiple projects.

the next few posts will be the images i've captured throughout the trip. hello brooklyn and what's good new york?

chillen on thuy's stoop clinton hill (brooklyn) a block from biggie's spot....

biggie lived here...

Ordered My SmartCar...

2008-10-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Just enough for me and a crate of records ;)

That's the business!

2008-09-30T20:14:00.000-07:00

The funniest video i've seen in a while. Beats the witchdoctor promo from adult swim which is just below it...

This video below contains some explicit cartoon scenes, flashing lights and is FOR FOLKS OVER 18 ONLY. You also probably should not watch this while at work!

Directed by Eric Wareheim (Tim & Eric) in association with Warp Records and Warp Films. Music by Flying Lotus. Co Directed/ Animation by Devin Flynn. Co Directed/ Edited by Eric Fensler. More info at dancefloordale.com

Witchdoctor commercial from adult swim...

Special thanks for M.Ballezzi for sending me the dancefloor dale link ;)

the best wedding ever...

2008-09-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

On September 13th, 2008 we attended the best wedding ever... ever... no really, ever.

Every single detail was well thought out.

Here's what made it special...

First off, the venue was amazing - village estate in yountville.

At wedding rehearsal the bridal party each got an iPod Shuffle with our initials on the back and the wedding date! Plus... One of my favorite beers: Tsingtao.

The place was huge. My team was hired to film so we had to create a tight gameplan and a nicely wrapped gift. Okay, we were the ones who planned that part... I just wanted a reason to put our notes/map on here.

The bridal suite used to be a spa. It was SO nice. I should've taken pictures of the upscale pedicure/sink seating area. However, this was one of my highlights... We watched SOUL TRAIN on the big screen while getting ready!

Dinner was on point! Gourmet everything, the photos tell it all...

Prawns...Yummy

Meat...Yummy

The taco truck came at 12 midnight and stayed til 1am. THAT was the knock! Unlimited free tacos!

Ya know... Dancing and drinking can make your stomach growl! They know us all to well...

Roger and Elaine, you are my heroes.

photo credit: thanks to melissa for the dinner photos. images.

What you need in life... "The Clearing"

2008-09-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

Me (aka Realism*) and Phil (aka nake) are starting up a new monthly event at a nice spot called, Club Anton in Oakland.

Upcoming dates are September 26th, October 17th & November 21st. Come hang with us, some good music and cool people.

(flyer for sept. below)

Directions: via google here

boomin on bart...

2008-09-18T05:51:00.000-07:00

i was at the macarthur train station a few months back and something very unique. first off, i heard loud ass music with lots of bass. i looked around and saw a man on a bike with a bookshelf radio system attached to his handle bars!

we went through the same entrance onto the train. i took a picture for your enjoyment...

its cool to be different, but follow your gut.

2008-09-13T03:12:00.000-07:00

this was gross.

this made up for the meal.

tommy your moded!

2008-09-13T02:54:00.001-07:00

we had an extra desktop pc laying around (i sold it to tommy).

i pulled up to the parking area of his street and called to let him know i was there. he says, "cool! i'll be right out, i guess i should bring a bag." i hung up the phone and thought to myself... "wait. he's gonna carry this desktop tower and flat screen monitor in a bag? maybe he meant a roller bag!"

tommy walked out with a smile on his face proudly showing off his snoopy bag (which was approximately 12 x 12 inches big)... i opened the trunk and he goes, "oh! for some reason i didn't think it would be that big!" we both burst out laughing! he called a friend to come out and help carry it. however, the mouse and keyboard did fit inside. (just not everything else!)

step @ otis - this friday!

2008-09-11T01:05:00.000-07:00

my good friend and fmg employee, brigidope sends this msg. check out his party!

Step is intended for the music loving, forward thinking individual. Just when you thought it was the same djs bringing you the same music... DJ heavyweights Vinroc, Shortkut, and Brigidope shed the typical party formula and bring you something a little different. Stuff you know mixed with more stuff you don't know... from soul to house to hip hop... downtempo ambient to reggae... all tastemakingly mixed in a way only veteran DJs can.

come celebrate with us as we say farewell to summer. in the spirit of things, dj brigidope has a farewell to summer mixtape he will be passing out to people. as always, we expect it to get thick, so for people looking for tables to parlay at, you gotta get there early.

Otis is perfect for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or any event where you want to hear some good music, have good drinks, but want to avoid the super huge/packedness of larger clubs. Why not have it in a place where you won't spend all your time looking for your friends? Celebrate with us in Otis' fun yet intimate atmosphere!

For group parties/birthdays/info, email us at stepguestlist@gmail.com

grab the muni stub or pay.

2008-09-10T01:22:00.000-07:00

it was my second time in the station, how was i supposed to know? actually i kept really calm and collected, for some reason i wanted to laugh. we got stopped to show our ticket at the church & market station. i stated my case and the woman was nice about it, she apologized for giving the ticket and explained how to protest it. $50 penalty!! i think not... sent in my protest today... you'll notice that i chose to white out my address, birthday and driver's license info for obvious reasons.

my day as waldo...

2008-09-08T12:33:00.001-07:00

Myself and a co-worker of mine, Anh had a meeting with David Perry in SF last Wednesday in the building to the left of Puma. I got there a bit early and saw kmel and a line. To my surprise it was for Estelle's autograph signing!

For those of you who don't know Estelle is the woman singing on the track, "American Boy" feat. Kanye West. Her album, "The Shine" is one of my current favorites. Her vocal delivery, background instrumentals are very solid. Unique, not trendy. I like that. I thanked her for her music and I saw her as an artist of longevity. She stopped, looked at me with surprise, gave me a high five and said that she is planning on being here doin her thing for at least another 20-30 years...

Her vibe was real down to earth. Very comfortable, no ego...

she even spelled my name right. nice...
more info: www.estellemusic.com

Denver, August '08

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

I was invited to appraise a collection of 3,000+ records that was everything from classical to rock to soundtracks and jazz. I wasn't sure of what to expect but I took a chance since I'd always wanted to travel to that city. I was there for 3 days. I wish that I could have stayed longer.

The outcome:

*The records were okay. I'd rate the collection a 7 out of 10 considering condition and selection

*I have 70+ great records (from 60s/70s rock. Moog music. nostalgic soundtracks) to consign

*I met Ben Summer at Twist & Shout, an easy going, european buyer with mad record knowledge

*I came back with more $ in my pocket than when I left the San Francisco Bay Area

aka... It was a good trip!

Trip Highlight...

On the last day of my trip I took about 200 records to sell at Independent Records East Colfax. I was there solo carrying records back and forth from the car into the record store. I'm parked out front and Randy (see pic below) walks up with a cigarette hanging out of the side of his mouth and says, "You selling those"...I say, "Yes, you interested in taking a look?" He offers to carry the records into the records into the store, places the records onto the buy counter and proceeds to pick out things of interest. Meanwhile, I'm thinking to myself how amazing this is that I'm slanging records out the car, then in the record store, right next to the buyer... Finally, Randy has 30 records in his hand and the buyer is ready for me. The way it works is they view the records overnight and call the next day or so for an offer. I left 150 records behind. The record store buyer points to Randy's picks and says, "Are you selling those to us too?"... I say, "No not anymore... Thanks! (with a grin on my face)." Randy paid me out in cash for his stack.

(above: randy looking through my records)