Original Skrip

Checking In

2012-01-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, I'm around, just haven't blogged much(obviously). Was in Cambria this past weekend and I got some shots for ya. So much going on, not enough time... the usual.

But for now, I am off to the...

The Evolution Of Dance

2012-01-12T01:54:00.000-08:00

Pomona Trash Fight Contniues

2012-01-04T16:13:00.001-08:00

UPDATE! the meeting has been postponed, more detail in the comments section of this post.

The fight against the Pomona Valley Waste Transfer Station continues...

This week, we will be submitting over 2500 letters to the City Council, asking them not to hear the appeal from the applicant of the project. If they choose not to hear the appeal, then the project cannot move forward.

However, if they decide to hear the appeal, we will once again need to present them with the facts that we have gathered, as well as our concerns about the project.

They will have a meeting on Monday, January 9th to decide whether or not to hear the appeal for the project (appealing the planning commission decision to deny a permit for the project).

Please join us on January 9th to voice our opposition to the project. We will meet in front of the council chambers at 6pm and the meeting will begin at 7pm. We want to have as many people as possible attend that meeting. Please tell your friends and friends!

Website: DontTrashPomona.com

Long Time And Hello 2012

2011-12-30T01:23:00.000-08:00

I sat outside this morning with a nice cup of coffee and realized that I daydream more often than I should. I also realized that I do not care to share these thoughts on a blog as much (some of these thoughts are too much I think). But I also realize how frickin' busy I have been since Thanksgiving. Not only did we host Thanksgiving at our home without knowing until Thanksgiving afternoon, we also hosted Christmas Eve as well, with a 5 day notice! (We were supposed to spend the weekend in Montecito with relatives, but I didn't 'confirm').

I had planned a New Years shindig at my place earlier this year, but these non-planned double holiday parties have pooped me out physically and financially. Although New Years Eve will be here, we will have a smaller get-together than anticipated, just a handful of close people. It's alot easier that way, although all are welcome to come (just bring some drinks or food).

Also, all the kids are home for a couple of weeks, so Grocery shopping is a constant thing. The last minute Christmas shopping for the WHOLE family was a beating in itself, physically and financially once again. Actually, now that I think about it, it wasn't the parties that did it, it was the day before preparations!

So then, this small New Years thing doesn't sound so bad. Small, chilled and a relaxed atmosphere sounds really good now.

Hope everyone out there has a Happy New Years Eve and Day! 2012 is sure to be one strange year. With the monsters that be tinkering with Iran, and North Korea with a new kid leader, it should be interesting.

Here's a little something to ring in the New Year:

A View On 9-11

2011-12-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

This man has a point, if not for the excessive profanity... viewer discretion is advised!

Seen Over @ Joey's BBQ Pomona

2011-11-23T18:51:00.001-08:00

"Work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work. Hello boys. Have a good night's rest? I missed you."

Baldwin Park Bust

2011-11-19T14:11:00.001-08:00

A few days old story but WOW! 80 kilos of Cocaine found in a Baldwin Park home. There's more to Baldwin Park than just the birthplace of In & Out Burger!

"Covina police received information of suspicious activity in area houses. Their investigation led them to a house in Baldwin Park, which they placed under surveillance, according to the report.

On Monday, investigators spotted Perez leaving and pulled him over on a traffic stop. They then searched his home and found the drugs and money, according to the report."

Full story at L.A. Times.com.

Time Management

2011-11-18T08:14:00.000-08:00

(Click to Enlarge)

Claremont's Cough Syrup Cartel

2011-11-10T00:02:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah, my fine friends over at Claremont Insider have an interesting write up on this story published by the Daily Bulletin, here's a quote from the Daily Bulletin:

"A Claremont woman and her son are among four defendants who have been charged with money laundering related to a pharmaceutical distribution ring.

Lucita Uy, 70, and her son Lemuel Libunao, 42, both of Claremont were allegedly part of a narcotics ring that sent the powerful cough syrup Promethazine from Southern California to Texas where it was often sold at a high markup, according to information from the United States Attorney's Office.
The cough syrup is referred to as "purple drank," "syrup," "purple liquid" and "lean.""

The Claremont Insider digs deeper and gives you the whole story, previous indictments, pictures and personal quotes. What's interesting is I'm always at my kid's soccer practice by the house at Padua Park. And in the end, this part had me laughing...

"All of which just goes to show that Claremonters lead very interesting lives, and we may just never be what we appear to be."

Pomona-Claremont Election Results

2011-11-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

Congrats to the double winners of the School Board, with a particular WOOHOO! for newly elected Frank Guzman for Pomona Unified!

Pomona USD Winners:
JASON A ROTHMAN 28.68%
FRANK C GUZMAN 24.53%
R L Rodriguez 22.43%
Hank Mollet 20.65%
Anthony Granillo 3.72%

Claremont USD Winners:
HILARY D LACONTE 43.13%
SAMUEL L MOWBRAY 36.32%
Joseph D Farrell 20.55%

Get Out & Vote Today!

2011-11-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

Yeah I know, for one little thing. And many other cities too. For Pomona, there are 5 candidates for 2 School Board positions. I say out of a population of over 150,000, perhaps 500 will vote, well, okay, less than 1,000. And it will probably mostly be out of Phillips Ranch & Diamond Bar.

I really hope Frank Guzman gets a slot on the board. This guy really does want to do the job, and doesn't seem to be trying to 'Norma Torres' himself for personal gain. He is a Diamond Bar resident, but we share our school district with half of that city. Plus he grew up and works in Pomona and wants to make it better.

The other person I have always liked is Jason Rothman. I voted for him in the past and I really like his stance on that nasty little measure they passed on us by fooling many voters, measure SS. He voted against it as Andrew Wong did too. I applaud Jason for that. Now that being said, everyone doesn't seem to like his father, our Mayor and I've heard all the gossip & rumors relating to him on this school board election. Regardless, I still think Jason does a great job on the board and hope he is his own person, which I believe he is.

The rest of the candidates I have no clue about. I will vote for these 2, since I personally have met them on several occasions.

Mustaches & Crime

2011-11-08T08:32:00.001-08:00

(Click to enlarge)

Corporate Whining

2011-11-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

Dale Brother's Oktober Fiesta This Saturday!

2011-10-20T14:18:00.000-07:00

Darn, darn! I have a stupid wedding I have to attend, so much going on too! (We will miss you Meg & K)

But for those of you who can attend, here's the info:
(click to enbiggenate)

Do Your Chores Or Else...

2011-10-12T09:24:00.001-07:00

Chores would be done a lot quicker in my house if I were this Dad:

"Tired of his "lazy" son not performing his chores, a Ventura father allegedly attacked the teen with a four-foot-long sword, according to police."

I wonder what the punishment in this household would be for not doing homework? Or perhaps getting into a school fight. Anyways...

Read More At NBCLA:
Dad Allegedly Attacks Son With Sword for Not Doing Chores.

Proud Of Our Vets, Who Are Also 99%ers!

2011-10-08T17:24:00.000-07:00

Costco Cost Mo'

2011-10-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hello So Cal peeps... Costco has just announced that their regular membership fee will increase 10% from $50 to $55.

I've been a Costco member ever since the one on Los Feliz in Glendale opened in the 1990s when I had my first apartment. I believe it was like $35 for the membership. It then went to $45 last I remember. I realized that in the last 4 years or so, I really don't go to Costco anymore. I used to call it the $200 store because I would go for milk and a couple of other minor things, and would always spend $200 or more. I'm sure my membership is expired now. In 2009 I remember going and having to pay to renew it when I had spent about $70. Have not gone back since. I do like Costco, they have some cool stuff and do take care of their employees more than any other big box store. I figure I'll go with someone if I need something, save me some money...

Regardless, just passing the notice on to many of you... I'm sure it'll be in the news all week.

A Rant To The U.S. Gov't

2011-10-05T00:02:00.000-07:00

This is great... and funny as heck. Warning, contains profanity.

Epic View Of The L.A. County Fair Today

2011-09-30T23:13:00.000-07:00

One of the questions I am asked all the time is, 'Have you gone to the L.A. County Fair?". I always say no, never have and don't plan to. Something about it being very expensive, especially with a family and also large crowds that can frustrate you, kinda make me stay away.

Nevertheless, a friend pointed out this cool picture taken today at the fair and shared on Facebook. I was at the Bonita vs Diamond Ranch football game played at Ganesha High, and the sky was a little nuts with a small sprinkle of rain twice today. What a cool shot of the fair this is:

(if this post sounds awful and there are typos, pardon me, I am drinking down a couple of beers to mourn Bonita's loss to Diamond Ranch).

City Of MonteBELLo... Yeah Emphasis On -BELL-

2011-09-27T15:58:00.000-07:00

No surprise, as MOST city officials become city officials because of the perks, NOT because they TRULY care about the city. Although during their campaign they will speak like they are fighting for all the people of the city.

Anyways, looks like Montebello is heading the City of Bell way, perhaps. According to this ARTICLE on a State Audit, Montebello misspent $31 million in redevelopment and gas funds.

Not to mention there is also an investigation of $1 Million in payouts of Montebello city money in 'off-the-books' accounts.

Yikes...

Santa Cruz Views

2011-09-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

Had another great weekend in Santa Cruz and can't wait to go back soon! Here's a little cheaply-put-together snapshot of the view from our indoor balcony at the Casablanca Inn on Saturday morning located on the boardwalk. This picture does not do it justice, but how wonderful it was to sip coffee and watch people start setting up their volleyball games (click any picture to enlarge):

This is the hotel where we stayed, viewing out into the ocean (inside that glass middle section):

Here's a view of the rides on the boardwalk from the pier:

Hello there, adorable little beach town:

I also managed to get a few shots of those loud sea lions on the pier:

and a random 'hippie' singing for us all!

Santa Cruz, you will see me again. It is so nice to enter any pub or restaurant, and be able to drink delicious IPA's and other beer. Not to mention, my son will be there for at least 4 years, so I've got an excuse!

Claremont To Covina Bike Day This Saturday!

2011-09-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

What a neat, healthy and earth friendly event this upcoming Saturday the 24th!

"Come join us as we celebrate Moving Planet Day with a fun bike ride from Claremont's train depot to Covina's train depot. It's an easy ten-mile ride, mostly downhill.

Haven't been on a bike in a while? No problem! Come to the Claremont Depot at 9:30 AM to fill out a little paperwork, then get your bike tuned-up, by the nice folks from Jax Bicycle Center, if your ride needs one. There will be a short bike safety talk before we start the ride at 10 AM. Along the route there will “bike shepherds” with radios, spare tubes, and other bike maintenance equipment if you need help.

When we get to Covina we’ll join riders from that city and enjoy a “buy-your-own” delicious lunch at Taste of Texas before riding back to Claremont. (Covina riders will begin their ride to Claremont after lunch and return home after a brief refreshment break in Claremont.)

If you decide you’re not up for the return ride to Claremont, you can always put yourself and your bike on an eastbound Metrolink train. For riders who want a more challenging ride back to Claremont, join a group that will head north to Glendora. Perhaps you’ll want to stop by Finkbinder Park and join that town’s Moving Planet Day celebration there. The rest of the riders will return to Claremont via the same route we took to Covina with “bike shepherds” supporting that ride.

This event is sponsored by Sustainable Claremont with help from the city of Claremont, Claremont Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, the city of Covina, Jax Bicycle Center, and the Claremont Senior Bike Group.

Come join us! Riders of all ages and abilities are welcome. Biking is good for your health and the health of our planet!"

For More Info & Route Maps, visit: MovingPlanet.Org and contact Denise Spooner!

Cold Hard Numbers

2011-09-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

LOL Picture Of The Day

2011-09-12T16:12:00.000-07:00

Just Saying...

2011-09-11T03:31:00.000-07:00

Seriously Chase Bank, F*ck You

2011-09-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

Painting by Alex Schaefer
I've recently wrote up a rant about the evil's of Chase Bank, also can be applied to any other large mega-corporate bank. And now I'm also catching on to a few, as they say on the streets 'scanless' things. In that rant, I told you how using a Non-Chase ATM for a $20 withdrawal, will cost you about $24.50 total at the end of the day.

Well, the other day I needed $200, and I couldn't find a Chase Bank nearby. I said, ah, fuck it, I'll stop at this Citibank. That's what I get for not going to the Chase branch by my house on Indian Hill. The only thing different I did this time was to 'check my account balance'. And guess what, there's a fee for that too. Here is the transaction:

NON-CHASE ATM WITHDRAW $203.00 (Including $3 fee Citibank Charges)
NON-CHASE ATM FEE-INQ $2.00
NON-CHASE ATM FEE-WITH $2.00

TOTAL: $207.00

What this means is that if you would've withdrawn $20 and also checked your account balance, it would've cost you $27 to get $20 of your own money!!!

Lesson learned and shared.

Another thing they LOVE to do... is to hold payments to make sure you're just missing enough money, so that they can put the transaction through and make your account go negative balance. Wallah! An easy $34 for each transaction after! You had a quick lunch at McDonalds for around $7? Well, it now cost you $41 for those nasty fries!

Yeah I know, the conservative side of me says, well, you should keep track of every penny in your checkbook register, you irresponsible twit! True, don't we all wish it was that simple for many of us.

No more are the days of, "I'll write a check today, or buy that now, I get paid tomorrow anyways."

Regardless, here are some examples I have experienced.

I had $1000 in my checking, but payday was tomorrow, enough to cover my $1500 mortgage and then some. I go into Bank of America at 4pm to pay my mortgage on Thursday. I check my Chase account on Friday, and the check went through the same day I paid it on Thursday, so guess what, yup, Friday I covered but they made an extra $34.

No biggie right? Remember how Bush ok'd the banks to allow checks through instantly instead of like 3 days or so? anyways...

well, same scenario. This time I have $3000 in my account on Thursday. I am paying once more by check my mortgage of $1500 at B of A at 4pm on a Thursday. What do you think happens next? The damn check does not clear the next day, but until next week on a Tuesday!! They must have figured, hopefully theyll spend most of their balance over the weekend.

Bastards!

It amazes me how they get away with this stuff.

Also, I made an online car payment a couple of weeks ago for $650 on a Wednesday. I had around $1200 in that account that night. I called to check my balance 2 days later, said I have $550 available. Simple math tells you the $650 is on the pending or has gone through. Cool... well, weekend comes and I have a few expenses, I tried to stay on top of it. But then I noticed I spent about $552 by Tuesday when I checked my account.

Now check this out, that transaction for the car payment, whether pending or whatever, WAS NOT THERE when I checked online that following Tueday! No sign of it anywhere, but it showed I had a balance of $648. Hmm, pretty obvious they're holding it to put the $650 car payment through that was paid the previous Wednsday and get their free $34 from me. Why would you show the transaction by Friday and the weekend, but wait til I had a couple dollars less Tuesday?

So I transferred $100 from my savings, hahaha.... f*ck them! They ended up putting the transaction through on Wednesday and never got their fee.

So good people of Los Angeles to Pomona, watch these bastards, they're screwing you with every chance they get! Courtesy of your tax dollars!

GOP/Tea Party Funnies

2011-09-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

New Noise Ordinance in Ontario

2011-09-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

New Noise Ordinance in Ontario... I frickin' love it!

"Loud nuisance violators have been put on notice by city officials. A recent change to the municipal code now gives police officers the authority to issue fines to first-time violators."

No, I'm not against parties or fun in your own backyard. It's just that when you want to convert it into a dance hall/concert stadium for more than just your block, into the wee-hours of the night, I have a problem with it. Hey, my house is a total party house. But I don't abuse the music into the night at high volumes. If my music ever even hits a high note, it might go one house over or so at most, but it doesnt rattle windows or disturb the peace. Plus all my guests remain in my house or back and not in front of the house.

Lately, with the influx of new renters, they will usually try it once. I suggest to call in the noise, even if it's before 10pm. In Pomona, before 10pm the noise cannot exceed 250 feet, and after 10pm it can't exceed 150 feet from the source.

Of course, at time a neighbor will ask if it's okay and even invite. That's very nice and then it is up to you. But when I can hear it 2 blocks away, come on, be real. I have enough with all these new dogs in the neighborhood as it is!

So Ontario, BIG-UPS on this new ordinance, it will scare and definitely put a stop to many of these ruthless parties with no respect for the neighbors and community.

Read The Full Story over at: Daily Bulletin.

Congrats To Bonita High's Win Over San Dimas (Again)

2011-09-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

What a game... critics predicted a San Dimas Saints win over the Bonita Bearcats, and Bonita proved them wrong. A great game, which was completely filled on the Bonita side! Final score was BEARCATS 40, SAINTS 20. Here's to a great upcoming season guys! Congratulations!

The excitement rages on!

the Smudge Pot belongs to the Bearcats once again!

#13 Dimas Diaz congratulating one of the night's stars, #23 Garrett Horine

Bonita VS San Dimas Rivalry Game Thursday!

2011-08-31T00:02:00.000-07:00

This Thursday night at Citrus college, in what is one of Southern California's largest high school football games, the cities of San Dimas & La Verne will go head to head in this historic football rivalry game known as THE SMUDGE POT.

The leader of the series is San Dimas with 22 wins, Bonita has won 16, with both tying once. This is going to be one HUGE game you can't miss. Gates open at 5:45pm, and get there early to get good seats!

Bonita fans should use the north gate and parking lot S8.
San Dimas should use the south gate and parking lot S6

Tickets: Adults $10, Child $6.
Bonita and San Dimas students with ASB free, other ASB $6.
My Sophomore son will be on the field as well... Go Bearcats!

Funky Indian Hill & Arrow

2011-08-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

Found this in one of my folders today... taken in Spring going southbound when the famous jacarandas of Indian Hill purple up from the Pomona border up to Downtown Claremont. Of course, I tweaked it a little, because if it really looked this funky in color we would have some serious eye and/or mental issues. Regardless, here ya go.
(Click for larger view)

Beat The Heat With A Wheat... Ale.

2011-08-29T14:09:00.001-07:00

About 4 days of 100 degree temps or more including this weekend, and currently around 98 right now, this is the way to beat the heat for me in the evenings. Well, that and cranking up the A/C indoors keeping So Cal Edison happy.

Enough with this weather, get back under the mid-90s please!

Rebel Without A Cause @Fox Pomona!

2011-08-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 28

Friends of the Pomona Fox
presents a Vintage Car Show and Screening of:

Rebel Without A Cause

Car Show starts at 1:00 pm
Directly across the street from the theater

Doors open at 2:00 pm, Film Screens at 3:00 pm

Refreshments at our snack bar. Alcoholic beverages and light appetizers available at The Drink bar, accessible from the theater lobby. Food and drinks may be brought into the theater.
(Yes, you can bring your own adult drinks too... shhh)

Pay at the door or online (click on source on bottom)

Prices:
Adults $8.00
Children 12 and under $3.00
Source: PomonaFox.org

Who's Rick Perry?

2011-08-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Who the fuck is Perry? Want to know more... here are some articles on this corporate/right wing evil unAmerican garbage:

Rick Perry: No Country For Women.

Rick Perry: Worst of the Tea Party & George W. Bush.

Rick Perry: Intelligent Design lie.

Perry's book, FED UP, should be changed to FUCKED UP..

Perry's appointee blocks DNA evidence showing convicted man wrongly held.

Perry: King of the know-nothings.

Rick Perry says EVEN MORE corporate TAX GIVEAWAYS than ever!.

Rick Perry: Social Security is unconstitutional. Really? Why? Sorry, I have a big mouthful".

A Rick Perry win could sweep NeoCons back into power.

Perry Doesn’t ‘Buy Into The Premise’ That Rescuing America’s Auto Companies Saved Jobs.

...and those were just a few articles I stumbled upon.

Monday Funnies

2011-08-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

(Click Images to Enlarge)

And here's one for all the back to schoolers:

Fist Of Gold Boxing This Friday!

2011-08-16T10:14:00.000-07:00

I've been watching lots of MMA fights and boxing matches on TV with my son this summer. And now I can take him a couple of miles away for some cool local boxing this Friday. Plus, there will be a beer garden for me! Click the picture for more info:

Pomona, The Place For An 'Ideal Home'

2011-08-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

in 1904 that is... with a population of only 7,000 people! And NO Saloons... LOL

Random Santa Cruz, CA

2011-07-26T00:02:00.000-07:00

Just came back from a long weekend in Santa Cruz, CA. And as always, not many pictures taken with my camera. I was actually surprised there were some taken. Most of the pictures we actually 'took' were taken on my wife's blackberry phone. These shown here are a few we snapped with a dying handheld camera. I do not feel like bothering her for the pictures at the moment... She's sleeping.

Nevertheless, was out there mainly for the UCSC campus orientation with my son for this upcoming fall. Lovely campus, my kind of weather, had a blast! I wish I took pictures of the 99 Bottles of Beer On The Wall Restaurant/Pub, the food was amazing and the brew selection awesome! So much to say but no time... We're going bodyboarding this morning @Newport Beach, then we have Palm Springs Wednesday...

Here are some truly random shots taken in Santa Cruz:

Sign Of Our Times

2011-07-22T00:02:00.000-07:00

My blood is boiling and I am furious right now with this damn GOP of today. I was always a huge Reagan fan back in the day and had views on both the conservative side and liberal side. I do believe in the financial markets strongly (recently working in the investment industry for 8 1/2 years), but not at the cost of destroying our country, elderly, middle and working class people. The disastrous and continuing destruction from George W. Bush's policies made me finally switch to Independent 2 years ago. To believe someone would continue to vote for anyone Republican these days sickens me. Even if being a Republican yourself, they do not care about you. Period. I have NEVER voted for party, but only for the best candidate.

And just because you'd like to be a super millionaire someday, that doesn't mean keep voting against every interest against you to make sure you never get there.

Let's not let these Evil Corporate Country Destroyers (Not JOB CREATORS as they like to call the mega-rich and corporate moneyhoarders) get their way, which they are, as we fret about who's on The Voice tonight on TV. They call them JOB CREATORS because there is a possibility that they 'could' create jobs if they really wanted to, but believe me, they will NOT. There are 29 companies right now sitting on more cash than the whole US Treaury. They keep making sure they don't allow Obama to help you with their votes against him in Congress, so that you will blame Obama for the continuing bad economic times.

DO yourself and our country a favor, DO NOT VOTE for these goons in November, no matter how the media spins it.

And now, here's more of our crazy GOP world in headlines:

BACHMANN: I hope higher unemployment helps my career.

McConnell Debt Ceiling Strategy: I Refuse To Help Obama Reelection.

Oversight Chairman Issa ‘Very Concerned’ Elizabeth Warren And Consumer Bureau Will ‘Bully Banks’.

GOP Congressman: Government Needs To ‘Sacrifice’ And Lay Off More Workers.. Really, we need MORE laid off workers, yeah, that's it!

The Economy Explained: Either Way, You’re Screwed.

Pro-Voucher Tea Party Group Admits It Wants To Shut Down Public Schools And Have Private Schools Only Because we all know the free market does it better!

REPUBLICAN WORLD taken from Daily Kos:
* Blowing up the U.S. economy is preferable to raising taxes a little bit on the richest Americans to help stabilize the U.S. economy.

* Spending taxpayer money to help the poor and elderly is bad, but spending taxpayer money on subsidies for mega-profitable industries that don’t need them is good.

* "All men are created equal" means all men. Except the gay ones.

* "Our #1 priority is jobs jobs jobs" means "Our #1 priority is anything but jobs jobs jobs."

* The fact that voter fraud is not a problem means voter fraud is a huge problem.

* The fact that climate change and oil dependence are huge problems means climate change and oil dependence are not problems.

* George Bush wasn't president for eight years---we went straight from America-destroyer Bill Clinton to America-destroyer Barack Obama.

* If Republicans in the House and Senate vote to end Medicare in favor of health care by coupons, and it turns out to be a blunder of epic proportions, it never happened.

* Rupert Murdoch is the de facto Minister of Information.

* Talk of secession is taken seriously.

* Everything you need to know about science is in the Bible.

* Suffering builds character, which is why we need more of it.

* The prime directive is the destruction of one citizen---the guy in the White House---even if it comes at the expense of the other 311,747,129 citizens.
And if there's still some coffee left in that cup, this is a MUST READ from Senator Bernie Sanders which I read this morning.

And now, back to... funny baseball fan dance, Denise Richads unveils new adopted kid, Mystery Mansion, Aniston rocks leather dress, US soccer girls in fancy dresses, Tiger Woods cuts ties with someone, High School cheerleader mom gets scolded, to name a few ACTUAL headlines I just saw everywhere in the media.

So sorry about getting political today, but then again I'm not... it's my pointless blog to rant anyways. Usually I try not to get too crazy, but fuck it, it's overdue.

Homes 'Round Here Rant

2011-07-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

No, I don't do real estate but I noticed around here in Northeast Pomona there are a few homes for sale (3 beds 1 or 2 baths is normal). They range from $185,000 to $210,000 at most. You can probably buy them from $185,000 or less. Here is my rant on the bad side of recent home sales. Of course, this isn't everyone, but it is common.

I have grown tired of these homes being bought by people who will lose them within 2 years. How they sell to these unqualified peeps is a mystery to me. I knew what they did back in the mortgage frenzy of 2003-2007, but to get away with it now I simply don't get it. The story around here goes something like this. Generally, it's the same foreclosure story, but it originates with this: The previous owner lived here for 20+ years, kept the house nice and front yard green and clean. They either pass away or move to another state/town and their children decide to sell it . Here comes the dirty astrovan with another 4 cars and moves in. Lawn and curb appeal goes to waste in a hurry (some of these people have NEVER owned a home and do not understand what curb appeal and property value mean). A dog or several dogs are now added and left in the backyard to bark away all night and day. Within 2 years, there's a sign for a foreclosure. Next buyer comes and receives it in even worse condition, and they seem to try and improve it by sticking an ugly small queen palm in the middle of a weed dirt lot. Tara! Looks even worse than before.

I do have some interesting stories where people have actually benefited by buying here. Take a recent purchase by a couple I personally know from Claremont. They lived up near the foothills and sold their home about a year ago for $650,000. Their kids are all grown and out of school, so there is no need to worry about schools. They bought a 4 bedroom house in Pomona (with a pool) on a pretty nice and quiet street for $235,000... cash. Spent another $75,000 on remodel/renovation. And they put away the other $340,000 for retirement. They also cut their annual property taxes by more than half! They are already pretty well off financially anyways, but they seem to go on vacation constantly. I say they're a frickin' brilliant and smart to do this. What's our biggest fear when we buy in not areas labeled as 'bad'? Schools... but with no kids, what's to worry? Just drive around and find a nice street (Pomona has many beautiful neighborhoods) and these people knew that, whereas the majority do not.

Also, if you are over 55 and you purchased your home a LONG time ago, chances are your property taxes are very low (under $1000 a year). Well, if you buy another home YOU CAN continue to pay the same amount in property taxes no matter how much the newer house costs!

Deadly Chino Hills

2011-07-19T10:59:00.000-07:00

This is a sad story, a bit morbid as well. 2 women have died this past weekend on separate instances in Chino Hills. The first is a 68 year old woman who gets run over by her own car. The second was a woman hanging a bird feeder on a balcony. Prayers go out to the families involved.

Daily bulletin has more info:

Woman dies after crash in Chino Hills parking lot

Chino Hills woman dies in fall from balcony

Los Angeles 1940's: City Hall View

2011-07-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

I do believe this might be the view from behind the 6th and 4th Street bridges, not too sure, since I haven't been down there in ages. I have also heard that the 6th Street bridge is going to be demolished, due to it slowly disintegrating.

What a view from back in the day, I do believe City Hall was the tallest building in Downtown at the time, followed by the Trans-America building later built which led to the skyscrapers eventually.

Summer Bummer

2011-07-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

My posting has dwindled, no doubt. It's not because I don't want to do it anymore, it's just that I have no time! My oldest son has just graduated High School and is ready for college, my middle son has just transferred to Bonita and has football practice all week, plus my oldest is doing his driver training school for his license. Not to mention my 'domestic' duties at home and all the running around I do on a daily basis. My lack of fulltime employment doesn't help, as it gives more time to do things we normally can't get done. I am also working on some weekends among other things for extra cash.

My mind is racing with so much that I don't know when to stop. The only time I stop it all is when I light up the BBQ Grill and pour myself a nice cold beer. Hmm, it's Friday, perhaps I should do that when I end my day today.

(after going to the mall to pay Macys, Sears and then going to my mechanic and paying that bill too. Then it's off to the grocery store, then post office for a certified letter, then gas fillup, then Home Depot for supplies for a project, then take son to friends house 20 miles away, blah blah blah).

Happy 4th...

2011-07-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

The Spirit Of Boyle Heights

2011-06-30T16:57:00.001-07:00

Introducing the American B-17 Bomber named "SPIRIT OF BOYLE HEIGHTS". Two aircraft were purchased by the Jewish community, including the "SPIRIT OF CITY TERRACE" to help the war effort during World War II. Just a lil'bit of history for ya...

The Power Of...

2011-06-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

(Click to ENLARGE... LOL)

Around The Blue Garden

2011-06-20T00:02:00.000-07:00

Oh boy, how could I miss this? I've done so much gardening the last 2 months and I've neglected to post some pics! Well, these images are about a month and a half old. Right at the peak of Spring (which it still feels like it). I am very much enjoying this wonderful gloom in June, I love cool cloudy weather. I do not mind the sun as much, just when it gets into the 90s and so on...

I've done a little cleaning around the garden, front and back. Not to mention we've just finished eating the last of our citrus fruit from my mandarin and sevilla trees! The plums are in and we are about done eating them as well. We also have a year round Lemon, so that one is doing fine, we've given away so many.

These following pictures are of some amazing blues around the ol'Skrip Garden. I know, for some they are called Purples, but let's call it a bluish and purplish combination theme.

My New Hero... Marcy Kaptur

2011-06-19T00:02:00.000-07:00

Pomona's Winning

2011-06-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

No, Charlie Sheen isn't coming to town.

The OC Art Blog has just written this article on Pomona's Art Walk being better than Santa Ana's. I've been saying it all along, Pomona's Art Walk is one of the most unique Art Walks in California, that happens to come around every month!

"The Pomona Arts Colony, on the other hand, was started by artists. Living in this area because of the affordable rent, a group of artists banded together and decided to create a monthly art walk to drum up business for the community and the artists within. From a derelict and dangerous neighborhood, this area has bounced back with a fury, boasting numerous galleries, music venues, restaurants and bars, and shops of all sorts."

And while we're at it, this
Saturday June 18th is the Pomona Valley family Juneteenth Jazz & Art Festival:

You can find out more info @ Juneteenth America.

Cool Musical Google Logo

2011-06-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed the new 'guitar' google logo, it's actually pretty cool! You can write your own songs and it'll record to a link. Here's a quick one I wrote.

Salsa Wars: El Darth Vader

2011-06-08T00:02:00.000-07:00

This cracked me up... I loved it!

More Insanity By Our GOP Leaders...

2011-06-07T12:36:00.002-07:00

I am amazed at the insanity of our GOP Leaders nowadays, and I'm not talking about moral values, gay relationships, adultery, pregnancies, photos etc... I'm talking about policies and things they spew and support. As a moderate, I wish for the day when the GOP will have Lincolnian-type of Republicans, because these useless thugs in power now are killing our country! Ever since the Newt Gingrich led butchering of the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal, it's been ugly. It's too bad most Americans don't take the time to actually think and look at facts. Oh well, I caught these few headlines today and found them crazy... at least enough to support my point.

GOP Congressman suggests to chop down all the rainforests to prevent climate change

Rep. Allen West suggests U.S. can’t leave Afghanistan because Americans are dying there

GOP Congressman demands TSA to racially profile passengers

Yes, Americans do love their socialized medicine after all. And that has put the GOP in a hole.

Gay Republicans: Our mission is to oust Obama

Rep. Walsh: Obama Was Only Elected Because He’s An ‘Articulate’ ‘Black Man’.

Introducing the GOP Green Jobs Plan: Repackaging & Rebranding old ideas that didn’t do well in their original form.

In other words, the GOP has a plan to make matters much worse.

And while we're celebrating the wonderful BUSH TAX CUTS of the past 10 years, here's some reading:

10 Years of the Bush Tax Cuts by Think Progress

Bush Tax Cuts: “Celebrating” Ten Years Of Fiscal Insanity

The Bush Tax Cuts: Ten Years Later

And no I am no 'lefty' and neither a 'righty', I'm a 'tweener', the one ya love to hate. Sometimes you need a little of this for that, and a lot of that for this. Balance, it makes the world a better place. But this is just plain craziness.

Don't Love Your Cereal Anymore?

2011-06-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe the popularity and sales of these long time cereals we all know have fallen so dramatically. These particular cereals have been the staple of the traditional American breakfast cereal for so many years (at least for me). I guess Snap, Crackle and Pop haven't been 'popping much'. According to this Wall St. article:

"Six cereal brands have been hit particularly hard by American’s changing breakfast tastes. These include Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, Cheerios, Raisin Bran, Rice Krispies, Corn Pops, and Special K. Sales of some of these brands fell by double digits between 2007 to 2010, and those declines have continued..."

I also recall recently the mention of some preservative found in most cereals, was known to cause cancer. I remember seeing the news story on television and restricting my kids to cut back. I think it was Folic Acid, or one of those. I don't think that's the case though, I just think there are just so many more options now for a quick fix breakfast, plus the price of milk can get costly. We average 1 Gallon a day in this household!

Claremont Friday Night Live Continues!

2011-05-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

This little event is a very relaxing and fun place to go with the family. I've been to a few with the kids and they love it. They love hanging out and playing on the grass, or perhaps taking little strolls through the little old downtown and buying things like ice cream and visiting the little shops. I personally am a fan of the Claremont Voodoo Society which does play on some Friday Nights, they are an awesone band. Here's some more info:

From Claremont Now:

"The unmistakable musical sounds of Friday Nights Live will continue to reverberate through the quaint Claremont Village here through Oct. 28.

On a recent Friday, scattered blasts of guitars, drums and vocals shot through The Public Plaza at 101 N. Indian Hill Blvd. and the nearby Claremont Chamber of Commerce at 205 Yale Ave.

On May 13, the blues and folk rock of Claremont Voodoo Society played at the Public Plaza off Indian Hill while the American and blues sounds of Mystic Knights Trio performed at the chamber building off Yale.

"We love the music and being outside," said Claremont resident Patty Bogle as she sat next to her husband Tim Bogle at the Public Plaza. The couple, who have been married for 20 years, said they have been coming to the music series since 2005 and hadn't missed more than five or so days.

Nearby, Pomona resident Cary Augustine agreed with the couple's positive assessment of the event.

"I'll walk around here and see the other band, too," he said."

You can read some more detailed information over @Claremont Now.

A New Wave Of Crime Ahead

2011-05-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, crime has gradually come down over the years nationally and locally. This is a good thing. San Bernardino alone sees a 14.8% drop in violent crimes alone. This is wonderful news. The Daily Bulletin has a great article with more detail here.

If you haven't heard already, Supreme Court orders California prisoner release. This has been happening for many years already. California already releases between 9,000 and 11,000 prisoners per month, but it returns over two-thirds of these on parole on violations, at a rate over twice the national average. I believe 7 out of 10 prisoners released will return to prison within the year.

Now you add a bad economy and no jobs even for normal citizens, what is there to do but survive? Many gangs are lying dormant, and thank god for gang injunctions. The old guys are getting out and with no options, it's time to revive the dormancy for drug sale and territory control.

It wouldn't surprise me if there are those 'private' for profit prisons behind this, because what will happen is crime will flourish to the point our governement cannot handle it (they can't already)? Therefore, the privately owned prison investors will be drooling like wolves for the taxpayers money. These prisons are even more horrible than governement run. Because PROFIT is the key, not safety.

Brace yourselves and hope this isn't the case. Many incarcerations are due to drug use or even possession or other minor things (people do make mistakes).

But I personally see almost on a daily basis prisoners exiting the greyhound station in Claremont. You can clearly tell who they are, with their plastic clear belonging bags, pants with no belts, tattooed up & down with a lost look as they walk down Indian Hill.

As a moderate, the liberal side of me says, "What's to help them do better on the outside? Perhaps a revamp of the parole violations, I mean, come on, for having a beer?"

Stolen Banners, $200 Reward

2011-05-23T13:06:00.000-07:00

The DPOA is offering a $200 reward for information leading to the identity, arrest and conviction of the knuckleheads who stole the new Downtown Pomona banners. Any information received will be held in strict confidence. To date, 18 banners have been stolen.

For more information, visit Metro Pomona.

This is just really a shame... but I'm not surprised. I think lately the downtown has had events that are attracting more and more riff-raff and people who do these kinds of things. It's bound to happen when a little gem of an area starts getting known. Pomona is not singled out in this, it happens in Pasadena and Downtown Los Angeles to name a few.

We need to go back to the type of Art town it was. But easier said than done, because it is a bit more complicated. In fact, it's complex with the mix of bureaucracy, business, profits, galleries, vendors, donations and so many things.

Regardless, make a quick $200 and email metropomona. They'll keep everything confidential.

The Rapture

2011-05-21T17:21:00.001-07:00

Photo Credit: J. Dyck

What Google & Facebook Are Hiding

2011-05-19T07:14:00.000-07:00

A very interesting speak on what's behind on algorithms and other corporate interests behind what you do on the internet. Is personalization by a corporation for you a good ethical thing? This video is about 9 minutes and worth it for those thought junkies.

Arnold's Domestic Worker & Kid

2011-05-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

I've just received this picture. Can't confirm that it's the real deal, but it probably is. This is supposedly the woman Arnold Schwarzenneger knocked up and had this kid with...

Here's some more of that 'Hot Stuff' for ya... while we're at it. LOL

F-You Hipsters

2011-05-13T11:37:00.000-07:00

Warning, this video contains some profanity. Other than that, it's f**king funny! Hipsters, oh boy will we see them tomorrow walking around for Pomona's Artwalk. They can be found all over Silverlake as well, and many other artsy parts of Los Angeles. I don't hate hipsters, I just truly find this video LOL funny. I prefer hipsters over hoodlums or gangsters any day. They're non-threatening, if only a bit annoying. Kind of like lost no direction peeps in their own world.

Enjoy the comedy. I love the closing line.

Joyland, Abandoned Amusement Park

2011-05-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

Located in Wichita, Kansas, Joyland has been closed down since 2006. Nature is slowly reclaiming the place and there is a collection of photos over at Buzzfeed.com which showcase pictures of the abandoned park.

View more by visiting the site.

Pit Bulls

2011-05-08T12:52:00.000-07:00

As someone who used to believe that dogs are dogs, it's the owners fault if there's a problem with their vicious dog... I've recently changed my stance due to personal experience as well as witnessing others. I have become a believer that pitbulls are a ticking time bomb waiting to explode.

Either way, interesting article by university doctors saying that pitbulls should be regulated:

"Among the grisly statistics the study cites: Pit bulls were responsible for 65 percent of all fatal dog attacks nationally in 2008. In Texas in 2007, seven fatal attacks occurred, six involving pit bulls. Someone in the United States is killed by a pit bull every 14 days. One body part is severed and lost in pit bull attacks every 5.4 days."

Click here for the rest of the story.

New Garden Painting

2011-04-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

Well folks, I've completed a secret little art project I started earlier this month. It is an outdoor garden painting, that I like to call: Pomona Orange.

The image is from an old orange crate label created for North Pomona's Seth Richard Groves, in particular the one used for the Foothill brand. This lady is also used by the Piedmont Brand, but in that particular label she is more detailed in the painting (thus harder and more time consuming).

I have no clue who she is, but I see it as the Goddess of Fruit holding oranges with the view of the valley and foothills.

a close up of POMONA ORANGE:

and here it is at a distance:

I am constantly asked if I'm available for hire and the answer is yes. I am trying to put together a simple affordable price including all materials, but it is not yet finalized. I prefer to do stuff that is historic to the location of the home, this making it more valuable and ties it down to its roots literally. I'm not ready for any giant murals yet, but small little garden corners, in shade preferable, are the perfect little corners for me.

I used very basic acrylics, nothing fancy. It was a little difficult to paint over stucco with little brushes, as if I was painting over little glued pebbles. The round border is actual small stone tiles from the hardware store. Just to give it a more formal, yet informal look. And it sits right under an orange tree!

Anyways, until then, I think I have one more garden art project to do and will post it up when finished.

Richard McKee

2011-04-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

La Verne's Professor Richard McKee passed away this weekend. He was one of the very few citizens who actually got off their asses and did something. The Claremont Insider has a great article for those who have no idea who he was:

"McKee fought every day to ensure California lived up to a simple and obvious idea. He believed the public has a right to know what the government it elected was doing....

It was a simple idea, and yet McKee spent more than a decade fighting nearly identical battles in city after city, county after county, as craven government officials decided it was easier to conceal than to reveal. The salary scandal in the City of Bell - the one that won the Los Angeles Times a Pulitzer - shows what happens when people like McKee are not around. He not only fought his battles, but he fought countless battles on behalf of people who did not know they had rights."

My favorite part of the article is this one:

"It's become fashionable to complain about too much or too little government on all levels, but 99% of the complaints come from people sitting on sofas in the comforts of their living rooms while the 1% represented by the likes of McKee actually do the heavy lifting. Let's get off our collective, lazy duffs and lend a hand."

There is also another article written by Gary Scott.

Why I Dislike Electronic Voting

2011-04-19T22:01:00.000-07:00

A computer programmer is asked under oath about rigging elections. Remember both Bush Jr elections and their controversy (Diebold)?

1st In & Out Burger GONE!

2011-04-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

(Original In & Out on Francisquito & Garvey)
The original and first In & Out Burger of Baldwin Park, CA is no more. Thanks in part to the expansion of the 10 freeway. Several years earlier, the In & Out University was also torn down on the opposite side of the freeway, in order to bring a newer In & Out with indoor dining, as well as a company store.

You would think the city would preserve this, but I don't know if they had a choice with the freeway (looks like it could've stayed). Here are some photos of the site:

(Photos by A. Belt)
UPDATE: Click Here for latest SGV Tribune Article.

I knew it, I remember in 2004 when the city council was told it would be preserved as a museum. One of the last family founders passed away in 2006, and now they sneak the destruction of this monument under the city's nose. These new people running with greed are quickly destroying the chain. They are expanding all over Utah and Texas now, with 11 stores planned to be built within the year. No more of the 'I can't wait to go to California, I WANT AN IN-N-OUT BURGER!'.

Dispute Over The Budget Debate

2011-04-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

Senior Funnies

2011-04-06T10:37:00.001-07:00

Here ya go Claremont...

Corporatocracy Now

2011-04-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

I am completely aware of this happening, and hope others who are not can see. I'm in the political mood this morning, having some delicious YumYum coffee!

Great job by Bernie Sanders once again, one of the very few Senators with balls. Wake up people, stop the us and them stuff with Republicans and Democrats, Bad guy and Good guys, this is a war on all of us by corporations and the richest 1%. And stop supporting their agenda because you think one day you'd be like them, trust me, they don't want you.

"One of the real senators, talking about the corporatocracy. Major corporations not only do not pay taxes but get huge tax refunds as they outsource jobs and pollution... Also remarks on the lies about Social security." - T. Stubbs

And despite the outcry of them needing tax breaks to 'create' jobs, we all know it's bullshit and they're stockpiling as much money as they can. It's such a shame our country allows this. Oh, yeah, but it's the free market!

Check out some of the latest headlines brought to you by our beloved GOP overlords:

The War On Child Labor Laws: Maine Republicans Want Longer Hours, Lower Pay For Kids (Don't say “cheap, plentiful source of labor” like it’s a bad thing).

Pell Grants Are Becoming 'The Welfare Of The 21st Century' (I assume ONLY the children of the wealthy should get a college education).

GOP Senator says ship the mentally ill to Siberia to freeze and die (Besides, we're overly populated anyways).

GOP Lawmakers Reject Measures Reaffirming Global Warming Science (Just 'cause scientists believe it and evidence supports it).

House Republicans propose deep cuts to Medicare (GOP's budget proposal gets rid of Medicare and Medicaid but preserves tax cuts for the wealthy and leaves the defense budget untouched).

Cannibalism in America, the Super Rich are eating America, by a fellow blogger (How much is enough? If ya have to ask, you don't have enough).

Strange Dancing Frog Legs

2011-04-04T12:14:00.000-07:00

This is really freaky. But I guess it has an explanantion.

Over at HowStuffWorks, they say it's:

"Because these are fresh frog legs, the cells inside them are all still intact. The biochemical machinery still functions. There is still a source of energy for the muscles in the form of unused ATP molecules stored in the cells. All that the muscles need is something to activate them and they can still contract and relax (until they run out of ATP or something else shuts down the biochemical machinery)."

Sustainability Seminar 2011 - Pomona

2011-04-01T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Pomona's Regenerative Cooperative will be hosting their annual Sustainability Seminar on Saturday, April 2th, 2011!

Native plants, bonsi gardening, home rain catchment, solar power and home energy efficiency, bicycle repair, natural homemade beauty products, sewing your own clothes, reducing toxic products at home, and salvage design will all be topics presented. A discussion forum will take place in the evening. A potluck lunch at noon, and dinner and a closing party will happen after the evening forum. Below is a 'flyer' of their event.

The Top 10 Craft Beers For P*ssies

2011-03-31T00:42:00.000-07:00

While I don't think the word 'pussies' is a bad word when used as a synonym for 'wussies', I went ahead and added an asterisk in place of the 'u' to keep the headline safe. From who? No one, it's late and I can't think much.

But this is a good silly article for those regular 'light' beer or domestic drinkers... just check out how it starts:

"So you have found yourself on a date with that hot hipster chick from the office. Lucky you. She insists that the two of you stop by her favorite super-cool beer and wine bar because "Hipsters so don't hang out there." You know you have been tricked the second you walk into the joint and it's nothing but a sea of over-sized cropped lace tops, boat shoes and stupid hats. After a quick glance at the beer menu, you realize there is no Bud Light, Coors Light or any of the other usual suspects and you start to panic. WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DRINK?!"

Here's the description of the number 3:

3. Mama's Little Yellow Pils, Oskar Blues - It's little. It's yellow. It's a pilsner. One delicious step up from a Budweiser, one huge step up in class.
Source: Top 10 Craft Beers for Pussies by ChowBella Blog

Half Of America On Facebook

2011-03-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

Facebook may be getting closer to taking over America.

According to Edison Research, more than half of all Americans aged 12 or older are now on Facebook. The study showed that 51 percent of these Americans are on the site.

Now where do I click 'Like' on this one? There's no 'Dislike' button yet...

Source: HuffPost.

Life Is Crazy And So Are The Headlines

2011-03-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

Been away from the blog so much lately, there's simply too much stuff going on. I have managed to do some more garden/backyard work in some of that time (including a cool re-claim of a bar table/setting) and hopefully will post pictures soon as Spring warms up.

Among other things, I've enrolled in the Pomona Police Citizen's Academy and it's been pretty awesome. It's a great experience to see the inner workings of this city's Police department. Hopefully I can post some more info on that once I've completed the program.

I also have my oldest son getting ready to finish up his senior year in High School. He's been accepted to 2 universities so that's very exciting. I've also managed to snag some Lakers suite tickets once again for this Sunday's game. What better way to go than a suite? Free food and drinks! Woohoo! The only way to go to a Laker game.

Other than that, this crazy world remains that. Here's some nonsense happening in our modern world. Hopefully you've stumbled here with a nice cup of coffee (yes you, the 1 reader, if any).

Head on over to Texas and have a burger at Fat Ho Burgers.

Cocaine found at NASA once AGAIN.

1/3 of Staten Island is on pain pills.

Chinese farmer claims his sheep gave birth to a Sheep-Dog.

I hate to say this, but I must. Whats Black, White and RED all over?
(I know bad joke, but you get it right?)

I'm moving to Russia, here's the World Map Of Average Breast Cup Size.

Verizon DSL, FiOS And A Tip For Windows.

2011-03-28T10:40:00.000-07:00

I've had Verizon DSL ever since I've moved out here. It's been great and does what it needs to do for only $23.99 a month. Sometimes, it does feel a bit laggy, especially when the kids visit YouTube.com., but we know how to deal with that and are used to it.

Last week my DSL did not work for 3 days, and it was after the one hour of over an inch rainfall. Naturally, this can cause moisture affecting the connection at the pole.

I decided, let me call Verizon to see if the Pomona/Claremont area has experienced any problems due to the rain. Well, that failed as I got a person from India on the phone. I am trying to ask a simple question for something local, but this person cannot help and they're reading a screen for every thing I say. I know all the procedures for DSL re-setting and explained what I did to them. Instead of getting irritated and call this person names, I said, fine, I'll do what you say again. And naturally, I did and it was the same routine. As she read the thank you and blah blah, she basically said she'll send a tech out... in SIX DAYS!

I told her, look, do you have a number I can call in case it works by then, I have a feeling it will. She gave me a number and I wrote it down. About 3 days later, all was well and the internet was fine. I wanted to wait a few days though, because when it wasn't working, it would seem to work for about 2 minutes then disconnect for hours again.

This morning was the appointment for the tech who was scheduled at 8am. I called their office around 7am to let them know it has been fine for 3 days. They said the tech is out already and to wait for his call. He arrived and called from his van, so I explained it to him and he didn't have to come in.

What a waste of time and money, this is complete bullshit. Not only for the fact that I had to wait six days, but Verizon is actually wasting money when they can have the local office's number on hand to verify a simple problem question that applies to the area.

And my rant now continues into the FiOS upgrade they're trying to force on us. I hate to be a conspiracy theorist, but I believe they're 'hiccuping' the old DSL users so that you sort of have to upgrade to FiOS. Just like Microsoft does to old windows users when a new version is released, by constantly 'updating' your old system to a slow crawl.

While they say it'll be $39.99 for a year, it will then bump up to $59.99, more than double what I'm paying now. As a matter of fact, I took my computer to a friend who has FiOS and did some heavy downloading to test it. Yes, it is faster, but it farts along. What I mean, currently I download anywhere between 20K to 125k a second, whereas FiOS can go to 400K or so. But while it's downloading at 400k, it tends to fluctuate, it at one point went down to 19K for a while. Then back to 90k, then 200k, then back to 19k again. It was during the day and perhaps time does matter. My point is, unless I'm downloading gigabytes of stuff a day, it's pointless.

The funny thing was, after the tech left, I decided to do some surfing. It was fine for about 20 minutes, then it started to hang and sometimes lead to connection failures. I almost screamed and said this is going to be a really bad day. I did the following and it's back to normal, in fact, it seems faster! All thanks to the power of Google, not outsourced customer service.

So here's a little tip in case you're ever in my situation, or really, if your internet seems to hang quite a bit for no reason. This error will show if you ever try to 'Repair' your connection:

Windows could not finish repairing the problem because the following operation could not be completed:
Clearing the ARP cache
For assistance, contact the person who manages your network

The Microsoft Windows ARP cache will occasionally become corrupt and need to be cleared. The first symptom you are likely to notice is that connections to web pages will time out and fail. To fix this error, go to Start, Run, type CMD.EXE and then type NETSH and finally type INTERFACE IP DELETE ARPCACHE. You should get an OK prompt.

If you do get an error, you can visit the website I stole this help tip from, as there is another way to do it and this post is already way too long: Tech-Faq's ARP clear

My Drunk Kitchen

2011-03-22T01:22:00.001-07:00

1908 - Pomona Winter Scene

2011-03-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

It's hard to imagine a scene like this nowadays around here... I'm thinking this is near northeast Pomona and south Claremont more or less. I wonder if that's Pomona College in Claremont way in the back?

(Click to Enlarge)

Chase Your Checking Away

2011-03-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

I do my major banking with Chase and have several accounts with them. Not by choice of course, I originally opened my account in 1993 with Household Bank. They were eventually bought out by Home Savings of America, which then became Washington Mutual. And of course, we all know they are now Chase. We have several free checkings that we've kept over the years for ourselves as side accounts. You know, for gas, lunch or extra little things instead of using our main account.

Well, the fees are here now! I had perhaps $30 sitting in my checking and now it's $20. As of 3/7/2011, they are adding a $10 fee. That is of course, UNLESS you meet one of the following criteria:

* At least one single direct deposit of $500 or more,
* A minimum daily balance of $1,500 or more,
* An average balance of $5,000 across all Chase deposit accounts (checking, savings, CDs) and/or investment accounts with Chase Investment Services Corp,
* Pay $25 or more in qualifying account fees (not including this monthly service fee)
While it was nice to have our own side checking accounts, which pay NO interest as it is, it is time to say:
Why? Well, for one, we bailed these mother f*ckers out with OUR money, and this is how they repay the people. And another thing, the hardest hit people who can't meet these requirements are poor people, which is most people (and growing).

and I borrow this quote from PND:

"This was the year America finally took on the power and greed of the Wall Street banks.

And the banks won.

They dodged the bullet of real reform, probably for all time. They bounced back to post huge profits, helped by legal theft from the middle class. They completed their takeover of both political parties – and bought themselves a new Congress even more pliable than the old one. Middle-class America is flattened, devastated and broke. The bankers that caused it all have escaped punishment. They’re raking in huge profits. Oh, and the tax cuts just got extended for high earners, too!"

Luckily, our main checking account will meet the requirement for what I hope will be a long time. We still have savings with them but they seem to be okay for now. We've also taught ourselves to NEVER use an ATM that isn't Chase, unless it's an extreme emergency.

Why? I'll give you the simple math: You pull out $20 at a 7/11 ATM, which charges you $2.50. Then within that period, you will be charged an additional $2.00 at your bank for using a non-Chase ATM. So that $20 you pulled out cost you $24.50, which means you paid 22.50% to get $20.

And you know what? It's only going to get worse.

L.A. City Elections Today

2011-03-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

I'm thinking of heading down to L.A. for the after parties, why not? I am wishing Jose Huizar the best of luck. This guy ran a tough campaign and is a friend of my family. We are no longer in District 14, but continue to support him. It's been a crazy campaign against Rudy Martinez, but we'll see how it went tonight. For a list of all the certified candidates, Click Here.

Among other things, I stopped by Pomona's City Clown-cil meeting last night. No comment. ;)

And I attended the M3 Music Festival in Downtown Pomona on Sunday, and that was awesome. Ran into some old L.A. friends there and met Richard Blade. Until the darn clouds rolled in and took the sun away.

Update:Looks like Huizar is taking this one as of right now (11:45pm), he's at 65%. For all the L.A. election results you can go here: City Clerk Election Results

Parents Shouldn't Text

2011-03-03T23:21:00.000-08:00

Claremont's First Friday Artwalk

2011-02-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

Apparently, there are still ArtWalks in Claremont and have been for some time. I was under the impressions that they no longer had them. I remember going for one and the packing house lay an empty place with children workshops. Someone was telling me there wasn't much support for it, which also lead to their art gallery/museum closure.

Again, I'm wrong, and there will be one this Friday March 4, 2011. The times seem to be a mixture of either 5:30pm to 8:30pm, or perhaps 6:00pm to 9:00pm. I would advise being there at those times, as unlike the Pomona Artwalk, which can unofficially go 'til 11pm at times, this one I'm sure is on full schedule.

For more info and directions visit: ArtWalk Clremont.com

Earliest Monopoly Games Sells

2011-02-26T10:07:00.001-08:00

This old round gameboard is made from oilcloth, one of 5000 made by Charles Darrow in 1933. This is the last original circular Monopoly game known to still exist. All hand drawn in pen and ink, with the pieces made of wood moulding. Darrow's game is based on political activist Lizzie Magie’s Landlord’s Game, which she created to point out social injustice at the turn of the last century. Darrow produced his game in Atlantic City, during the Great Depression when he was unemployed and had a family to support. He sold the rights of Monopoly to Parker Brothers Games in 1934, putting an end to his financial worries.

You can read the more detailed article over at Daily Mail UK.

This Sunday @Fox Pomona:

2011-02-19T13:36:00.000-08:00

(Click Image For More Info)

Double Bevmo Visit

2011-02-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

My birthday has passed now, about 2 weeks ago to be exact. I received 2 wonderful gifts from my sisters, $75 total in Gift Cards to BevMo. While I generally go to BevMo for their awesome wine sales, I don't frequent them as much as Liquorama and Walnut Liquors for quality microbrews.

I started off with a trip to the BevMo in Rancho Unga-Bunga (Cucamonga). I figured, okay, this is the I.E., there ain't shit to do out here so I'm assuming there might be plenty of beer connoisseurs out here. I realized it must be inventory day, the store seemed rather small and it just so happened they were working in the beer section. The isles were small and it felt crowded, especially with the annoying worker going back and forth without saying excuse me or anything. I also noticed alot of their beers were past their prime and dusty. Some beers noted 'drink by November 2010'. Yuck... so I spent alot of time not only looking at varieties, but pulling bottles out for dates. They either state the day their made or when to drink by for best flavor. I wanted to try the Alaskan IPA 6-pack, but the date freaked me out. I ended up settling for a 22oz of it, along with some Big Sky IPA from the state of Montana. Grabbed an Alesmith IPA 22oz for tasting as well.

While I was there, 2 tall blondes were looking for beers in the same aisle. As I mentioned, it was crowded just with us. Lo and behold, I hear a 'pop' and 'smash' and witness one of the girls drop a 22oz. of Coastal Fog. Cleanup on aisle microbrews please! Dingbats... I left the store and wasn't satisfied with it, this one sucks. I guess I.E. loves their monster drinks, domestic beer and sideways flat bill caps.

Later that evening, I drove to the BevMo in Glendora. Ah, this one seems a little more roomier and the staff is pretty friendly. Walked towards the back where the beer section was once again. The aisles were a bit wider and there was a worker doing the inventory/stock thing again. This guy was courteous as he worked. I asked him questions and he was very helpful. He didn't mind stopping and helping me look for something, or to even explain his experience with the brews. I felt at home here... although some beer here also was past its prime as well.

Left home with a Moose Drool Brown Ale 6-ack from Montana, Deadlift Imperial IPA 4-pack, Lagunitas IPA 6-pack, Coastal Fog IPA 12-pack, Sam Adams Noble Pils 6-pack, several Stone 22oz and others. The staff was friendly all the way to the register. They probably thought I was some kind of drunk buying all this beer.

Nah, I'm just stashing away in the garage for the Spring to come backyard BBQs. I will however, sift a taste of these fine brews tonight with the wife!

It's Raining! Vote For Franz

2011-02-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

Finally... took a while there. Sure, the sunny days were nice of course. But not yet please! At least it still got a bit chilly at night though. Regardless, I'm outside enjoying the on/off pouring rain.

And while I'm at it, I think I'll sing this song performed by a Pomona artist/local named Franz Keller:

By the way, he's in some kind of contest and would appreciate a click on the THUMBS UP icon!

THIS WEEK: Boys Basketball CIF Playoffs

2011-02-15T00:18:00.000-08:00

CIF-SS Boys Basketball Playoff Schedule

All games start at 7 p.m.

Wednesday's first round:

Division 1AA
Leuzinger at Chino Hills

Division 1A
Diamond Bar at Cajon
West Covina at Capistrano Valley
Tesoro at Walnut

Division 2A
Ontario at Rowland
Eastside at Glendora
Baldwin Park at Foothill
Don Lugo at Ayala

Division 3AA
Arroyo at Nogales
Claremont at La Verne Lutheran

Division 3A
Calabasas at Diamond Ranch
Temple City at Bonita
Agoura at Damien

Division 4AA
St. Francis at Sierra Vista
Northwood at Northview
South El Monte at Atascadero
San Luis Obispo at Bishop Amat
Servite at San Dimas
Tahquitz at Mountain View

Division 4A
Workman at Whittier Christian
Rubidoux at La Puente
Wilson at Desert Hot Springs
Ganesha at Ontario Christian
Covina at Morro Bay

Artwalk & Other Things

2011-02-15T00:02:00.000-08:00

The kids were off this past Friday, so it made for a very long weekend. Made some time to attend the Pomona ArtWalk and it was a wonderful one. The area was packed, especially with Snoop Dogg performing at the Fox. The Art was incredible too, lots of new stuff, especially the Bunny Gunner with it's 'All You Can Eat' Art buffet. Ran into some old time friends and had a few drinks around town as usual. Ern's Loft Beats was happening too!

While on my little 'walk and drink', I got word that there will be a place in downtown Pomona serving NOTHING BUT American Made Microbrews on tap. I am excited and my palate and liver are doing flips over this. I was told this will happen as soon as the last drip of Newcastle is finished from tap. I will keep you posted as to when this happens.

What else is in the news? I'd like to congratulate the city of Baldwin Park's Sierra Vista High School 'DONS' for their great basketball season. The Freshman and JV teams won league, and the Varsity is playing their CIF Playoff game at home against St. Francis on Wednesday 7pm. Varsity finished 2nd in the Montview league, with a 12-2 league record.

(Delan Diaz of Sierra Vista HS)
What else, what else... hmmm. I'm a little upset with politics locally right now, but I'll get over it soon and I hate to vent this second. On a lighter note, it was recently my Birthday and I received $75 in gift cards for BEVMO. There, that made me S M I L E !

Hope you all had a great Valentine's Day yesterday (if you care for it).

The New Indentured Servitude

2011-02-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

(Click To Enlarge)

And While We're On The Jobs Topic...

2011-02-10T00:02:00.000-08:00

New Bill For Unemployed 99ers

2011-02-09T00:02:00.000-08:00

As many of you are or may know someone who's been unemployed for a while now, it's good to hear that some in Congress are trying to introduce a bill to help the 99'ers. These are those who have exhausted all their unemployment benefits and are no longer collecting. The bill is to add another extension of 14 weeks to everyone.

Most of the 99'ers have worked in between (like myself) but the jobs are temporary or aren't long term for many reasons. I have a relative who has had 3 jobs since being laid off his main job for about 1 1/2 years. The jobs lasted only 2-4 months due to cuts at work. So back they go to unemployed and searching. The most wonderful thing about the benefits is that this money is pumped right back into the economy keeping it rolling, it's the most effective way.

The 'give the super rich tax breaks and it'll create jobs' is plain bullshit. You give them more money and they keep more money. Just look at how much cash is being held by corporations today, more than ever in history! Not to mention record profits continuing for them...

Anyways, here's the article from the: L.A. Times.

City of Pomona Cultural Plan Passed

2011-02-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

(Photo by REN)
"After a year of hard work by a group of diligent and dedicated citizens under the stewardship of Terry Wolverton, a grant from the NEA, fabulous support from Emiko Ono and the Cultural Arts Commission, the City of Pomona unanimously passed a Strategic Cultural Arts Plan last night."

In 2010, the City of Pomona was selected to join four other municipalities throughout Los Angeles County to receive support from the Los Angeles County Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts to develop a Cultural Plan for the City. Spearheaded by the Cultural Arts Commission—Rochelle Bryant, Earnest P. Campos, Douglass Dorado, Mickey Gallivan, Joy McAllister, Cindy Moore and Rita Romero—the cultural planning process has allowed Pomona to engage its residents and other stakeholders in considering how arts and culture can improve the quality of life for those who live and work here. Over 100 representatives of the arts, business, social service, educational and civic communities have advised this plan.

Visit for more info: Pomona Cultural Plan

(thanks to A.S. Ashley and Andi Campognone for the heads up!)

The Sam Adams Family For Winter

2011-02-04T00:02:00.000-08:00

We have some guests over at the 'Skrip' house this winter. And I will say, they're certainly a tasty bunch. Let me introduce you...

Standing from left to right are: Boston Lager (Father), White Ale, Latitude 48 IPA, Chocolate Bock, Winter Lager, Holiday Porter, and the Old Fezziwig Ale (Mother).

What a gorgeous shot of the kids, surrounded on both ends by their parents!

2nd Street Cigars

2011-02-02T00:02:00.001-08:00

No, not on 2nd Street in Downtown Pomona, but on 2nd Street in Downtown Los Angeles.

I was there for a fundraiser last Thursday and it was a blast. Dignity Cigars was hosting the event for the Youth Speak Foundation. There were also a variety of Red and White wines, as well as cheeses to go with it. Here are some shots of the event:

For more information on 2nd Street Cigars, visit their website.

Photos by Rudy Espinoza

The Sowden House

2011-01-31T22:26:00.001-08:00

I am truly the blogger's anti-blogger because I do so many things that I should report on my blog, but never take the incentive to actually do it. I was at a private party this Saturday held exclusively at the Sowden House in Hollywood (Los Feliz). The shot above is an ugly phone shot, but it was all I had. I left my actual camera in my car which was valeted (as usual). I must say that this place is TRULY AMAZING! Gorgeous and so awesome, lightly put. We had the most delicious hors d'oeuvres, followed by a definitely high class dinner where everything was so tasty and unique. The open bar at the kitchen was a plus. I simply cannot put in words how 'grandeur' this place is in style. What a fun filled, long lasting evening into the late night it was!

Interesting tidbits: This is a Lloyd Wright design (son of the famous Franklin Lloyd Wright). This is the house that the 'surgeon' from the famous L.A. Black Dahlia murder was linked to in the 30s. The son of the surgeon lived here at one time, who was a police officer who worked on the case. Not to mention this house has hidden rooms.

Google it as much as you want, or also you can read the wikipedia link: HERE.

You can view the PHOTO GALLERY HERE.

Stuff like this is why I love Los Angeles and Southern California!

TONIGHT: Cigar Night & Youth Speak Friendraiser

2011-01-27T06:36:00.000-08:00

Dignity Premium Cigars & Youth Speak Collective presents:

A Thursday Night Friendraiser
Fine Cigars | Good People | Great Cause

$25 includes:
3 Dignity Premium Cigars & Cutter
Complimentary Wine & Cheese
Live Music & Live Art

Taking place at:
2nd Street Cigar Lounge & Art Gallery
124 W. 2nd Street
Los Angeles, CA

Come smoke with us and support a great cause.
Dignity Premium Cigars are organic hand grown cigars from Costa Rica
www.dignitycigars.com

2nd Street Cigar Lounge & Art Galley - best kept secret in Downtown LA
www.fujipub.com/2ndstreetcigars

A portion of the proceeds go to benefit the non-profit Youth Speak Collective www.youthspeakcollective.org

***No need to purchase package to attend. Cigars also sold separately. No need to smoke to attend either, just come to meet new people and support a great cause.

The Visual History of TSA and Flight Terrorism

2011-01-26T07:43:00.000-08:00

I received this in my inbox this morning (thanks Lauren).

"Even before September 11th 44% of American airline passengers reported they "felt fearful" when flying. How has September 11th changed airport security? What other attacks have happened? Did these attacks stop people from flying?"

Here's a look at our recent history with airline terror, and see how we got to backscatter X-ray machines and enhanced pat-downs:

The full visual image project can be clicking here:

What Is Your State Worst At?

2011-01-25T06:58:00.000-08:00

(Click to enlarge)

Source: Pleated-Jeans.com

Oh Pomona, You Lazy Ass City

2011-01-21T06:17:00.000-08:00

It been over a month since I've taken the Lincoln Avenue street sign to City Hall that had fallen during the late December rains. I spoke to someone over the phone who was grateful and seemed to want to fix the situation. I personally walked it over to their engineering department as well. In fact, the head of Public Works also returned my call (after 2 1/2 weeks) saying he wasn't aware and would handle it. The location of the sign is on Lincoln Ave & Indian Hill if you'd like to see it yourself.

As of today, the sign remains a bare florescent light bulb case. I'm holding back on calling the city because I will rip them a new one. I'll wait 'til I'm a bit more patient and relaxed. It would take them a few minutes to put it back and re-clip it. I probably should have kept the sign for my garage as I had joked about it, would've gotten more use.

There's a reason why I called this the 'Ignored Northeast Area', which is fast becoming the bad Pomona due to neglect and the economy. The disease will probably continue to spread into the nice streets of some of the North Pomona areas. I've already noticed the influx of parked cars along Indian Hill from San Bernardino to American Ave. There were never parked cars on that street at night, but now about 4 of the homes there have become renter motels.

Here's another example why we're not the City of Trees as our neighbor in Claremont surely is (tree maintenance along the American Avenue city border):

When I first moved here, the street trees were maintained every 2 years. Now it's been over 4 years since any maintenance has been done. Oh, but to chop trees down, the city will be there in a flash, because that's less work for them regardless of the city looking worse and crime going up. Nice.

Paula Lantz, our Councilwoman, do you hear this?

UPDATE: It is now February the 1st, and NOTHING has been done about the Lincoln Ave. sign. Everyone in the city/public works seem to think it's been completed, but it obviously hasn't. Can it go 2 months now?

Props To Monrovia

2011-01-20T10:49:00.000-08:00

With the holidays taking most of my time the past few weeks, and yes, this news bit is VERY late, I just wanted to congratulate the awesome Wildcats football team from Monrovia High School who won the CIF-Southern Section Mid-Valley Division title last month. The Monrovia Patch wrote a great article titled "A Sleigh Full of Wildcats Celebrates CIF Championship in Victory Parade". The Wildcats win came with sacrifices:

"The team was forced to practice at Clifton Middle School over the summer as their field was being renovated and worked out at a local gym instead of their weight room for the same reason.

"During this time they displayed fortitude and persevered," Jackson said.

The season brought more challenges, as the Wildcats had to play two home games away from home because of more renovations. And, naturally, their championship game had to be moved to Arcadia High School when CIF officials discovered flaws with the bleachers at MHS."

In addition, Keith of Gem City Images has posted an amazing high above shot of the high school, which you can view and zoom in by clicking here.

Facebook Obsession

2011-01-18T12:33:00.000-08:00

Do you Facebook? Chances are you do... It looks like a 26 year old kid is the ruler of the world. Check out these staggering facts about Facebook:

(click to enlarge)