Arrangement in Red, White and Black

     This is one of the first works of art I did. I was experimenting with India ink and almost threw it away. I used colored pencil to "fix" the black spots. I started with red, then pink and other shades of red. It seemed right to use the colors created with red, black and white. I framed it and gave it to one of my sisters as a Christmas gift a few years ago.

Ancient Technology

The Profit of Cinema

Martin Scorsese is perhaps one of the best directors in the film industry. His opinion when criticizing other works of cinema is worth listening to because he is arguably, an expert in the field. As I transitioned from watching a movie as a pure medium of entertainment to being able to separate quality writing, acting and directing, I understood what the famous director meant about Marvel. When I first saw Goodfellas (1990) I realized his work as a director and writer was indeed worthy of a gold star. It was such movie and many others which helped me analyze and classify a very good movie from a bad one. It is the origin of my personal standards of filmmaking. One of the reasons my inner critic expelled low opinions of Something Borrowed (2011).
     I have seen plenty of movies in the Marvel Universe to see the predictability Mr. Scorsese mentioned about Marvel movies. Just like a roller coaster: its fun to ride it, we know what's coming, and we end at the same place we started. I enjoyed watching those movies because they were fun and action packed and it was the perfect opportunity to spend time with all my friends. The heavy marketing, casting of top actors, and excessive budget is why the movies make enough money to place them at the top of box office charts. This generation of cinema is dominated by the need to recover whatever was invested plus a healthy profit. As I mentioned, the movies are fun to watch but some of the acting, writing and directing is not what I would consider cinema gold but a temporary and successful financial story and opportunity for an actor to grab attention and recognition.
     I believe a good movie is one which takes me to a state of suspension of disbelief and unpredictability while watching it and praise the story line and involvement required to complete it at the end. The Village (2004) by M. Night Shyamalan for example, is an amazing movie with an interesting story line, good acting and writing, and was intertwined with unpredictability. All those elements of filmmaking when executed correctly, can indeed make it worthy of remembrance, watch over and over for deeper analysis and add to a collection.
     The genre is not relevant. Whether its a drama, comedy or fantasy, the gold standard of cinema should be met with the elements of good filmmaking without thinking about the box office. Sure, some will climb to the top of the box office ladder like Titanic (1997) or The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) but those are quality movies and did not make me think about how much money they made until I searched them in boxofficemojo.com for research. In the end, the most important thing about movies is how they make a person feel. If a movie turns stress into happiness*, brings back memories, motivates or just helps with relaxation, then it is a good movie.

My personal recommendations:
     G.I. Jane (1997)
     Alien (1979)
     The Exorcist (1973)
     My Cousin Vinny (1992)
     The Departed (2006)
     Underworld (2003)
     The Village (2004)
     Heat (1995)
     Swordfish (2001)
     Inglorious Basterds (2009)
     Pulp Fiction (1994)
     Casablanca (1942)
     My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)
     Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
     Logan (2017)
     The Holiday (2006)*

The Best Horror Film of All Time

It is difficult to choose what movie in a particular genre is the best of the best. I could say My Cousin Vinny (1992) is the best comedy, Heat (1995) the best action film, The Dark Knight (2008) the best superhero movie or Toy Story (1995) as the best animated film. My opinion is generated by someone who enjoys watching movies and focuses on acting, directing and writing as much as popular critics out there. That being said, I have chosen William Peter Blatty's The Exorcist (1973) as the best horror film of all time. This film is composed of superior directing, acting and writing. Linda Blair, famous for portraying 12-year-old Reagan, acted in such a way to scare the hell out of us and detach the innocent girl into an image of nightmares--another praise for the makeup department. The special effects were superior for the time it was made. It provided a "realistic" effect of an exaggerated exorcism. The writing, one of my favorite parts of the film, was remarkable enough to remember lines like my favorite song. Some of those lines may not be appropriate religiously or may offend the occasional millennial but it is a well-written work however offensive it may be. After all, when the devil has dialogue, we can't expect a filter. All the work, challenges and injuries during filming paved the road for one of the most successful horror films of all time...and one of the best. Generating negative reviews, heavy warnings, bans, the occasional nightmare, and almost "X" rated rating is what makes a film scary as hell.  I was still in middle school when I first watched it. In high school a second time. And now I own the DVD as an Adult. I have seen plenty of horror films made in the last forty years to justify my opinion. While some of those horror films are amazing works of cinematography, they have not changed my opinion regarding The Exorcist. 

Room for 7: an intruduction

I created "Room for 7" a few years ago while watching the popular sitcom "Friends." As a fan, I have all ten seasons on DVD which includes bloopers, behind the scenes footage, and actor interviews. Teri Garr, who played Phoebe's biological mom, commented on the sitcom in one of those interviews which gave me the idea for "Room for 7." She had commented how it is not possible to have a close group of friends who are all "hot and good looking." She also said there is at least a fat one or an ugly one in a close friendship. She may or may not be right but it gave me inspiration.

    "Room for 7" is the story about seven college students living in one house. They work, study, and have different backgrounds.

Nathan Garland: He is a smart, geeky and shy student at USC. He works as an intern at Garland Investments, his grandfather's company. His Grandfather retired and is going to give him the company after he graduates. While his grandparents are living in France, they allowed him to live in their large house and use their car while in school. He did not want to have the large five bedroom home all to himself for four years. He decided to invite his friends live with him rent free while they too are in college. They do have to split the bills and maintain the house. 

Katie Sung: Also a student at USC. She is a geeky, petit and nerdy Korean girl and Nathan's childhood friend. She is a barista at a coffee shop. Her parents and Nathan's are close friends and partners at Garland-Sung Accounting. She has her own bedroom.

Eduardo "Eddie" Trinidad: He is Nathan's elementary school friend. He is a Latino student at Cal State Los Angeles. He works as a server. He shares the master bedroom with Jacob and Dylan.

Jacob Kendrick: He is also Nathan's high school friend and Eddie's best friend. He is a student at Cal State Los Angeles. He works as a car mechanic at his Uncle's Shop in downtown L.A. He is African American.

Dylan Hunter: He is the tallest of the seven. He is a student and basketball player at UCLA. He is a barista at a coffee shop. He is Nathan's childhood friend. His dad is an Accountant. 

Carmen Esperanza: She is a pretty Latina and student at UCLA. She works as a server. She is Eddie's cousin from her mom's side. She has her own room.

Samantha Harman: She is a student at Cal State Dominguez Hills. She works as a server. Her dad is a police officer and good friends with Nathan's parents. She is a vegetarian. She has her own room.

Freedom of Meat

"It's not food, its violence!" was the chant used by a group of protesters inside a grocery store in the beautiful island of New Zealand to protest eating meat. Meat, a staple in the diet of millions of people world wide and the stuff of nightmares for some vegans. I eat meat. I was raised by a family who introduced me to a wide selection of animal products such as alligator, rabbit, deer, goat and sheep. While my diet consist of meat, it does not mean I'm going to protest against vegans in front of the produce section. I have a friend who chose a vegan lifestyle and does not judge me or others when I eat a hamburger or a steak. This is the respect she has because she chose such diet for her own well being. It works for her and it should work for the rest of vegans. People who choose a diet of meat do not want to be told not to eat animal products by a group of angry protesters because no one wants to be told what to do. We already have the government to do that for us and they are smart enough to allow their citizens the freedom to eat whatever we want. Vegans should understand not everyone wants to go full vegan. It is an unreasonable expectation like wishing for world peace. Yes, we know how meat in developed countries is processed and shipped to the meat counter. We don't need to be reminded. All we want is to eat whatever we want without any form of confrontation in the grocery store except by the butcher and the cashier. If a vegan tells you meat is murder, then remind them how their shoes, clothes, backpack and their precious smartphone were made. I almost guarantee if you tell a vegan to break their smartphone in protest of the cheap and cruel labor of human beings, they'll think twice about it. Now if there is a vegan out there wearing clothes from a thrift shop, no jewelry, rides a bike and the bus, grows their own food, no smartphone or any electronic devices, works for a non-profit organization, and cleans the environment telling me not to eat meat, maybe I would consider it. For now, we should not have to argue that meat is not food because it is. It has been for thousands of years and taking it away completely will definitely lead to chaos.

The Bad Tipper

I have been working in the restaurant industry for over ten years. I am currently a bartender and server at a restaurant in Anaheim, California. Throughout my years in the industry, I have had some really awesome tips and some crappy ones. I have been the best server in the world and received a tip barely worth the cost of two items at the 99 Cent store. I have been the worst server ever and received an awesome tip to make me feel like crap. People are different. They have their own expectations of restaurant service and tip accordingly. Nevertheless, there are trends we servers have picked up regarding the type of person or party and can foresee a good or bad tip (remember, this is my personal opinion and this is what I have seen in my years as a server and bartender):

-American Express Platinum card holders tend to tip like they can't afford the annual maintenance fee.

-People who ask for the price of every single item tend to tip about ten percent of less.

-Those who check every single item in their receipt and call you out for any irregularities usually will not leave a good tip.

-People who make you work like they are the only table in the restaurant and ask for things every two minutes tend to leave a low tip (sometimes but rarely they reward the effort generously).

-Young couples usually tip like they have a limited allowance.

-People from Australia and New Zealand are either really good tippers or don't tip at all. This is because the tip is included in their own restaurants. Many will ask if the tip is included and how much its customary.

-People from the UK tip five percent or less. Almost like they don't like Americans.

-Certain Christians (those who show their religion like wearing a multicolor coat) tend to tip the same percentage of their tithe. There was a server in Missouri who received a note from a pastor which said, "I give God ten percent why should you get 18?"

-Those who get mad for not having a particular item but stay anyway and order something else...well, you know what the outcome will be.

-There are those who don't tip at all. Those people could be anybody and are difficult to predict. Every server has had the zero tipper before one time or another. You are not a server until you experience the zero tipper.
-Just for fun: https://onethirdchapter.blogspot.com/2019/04/room-for-7-of-tips-and-men.html

      This is just what my coworkers and myself have experienced in the past. We share every complement and complaint with one another. We see the frustration when another server or bartender has experienced a difficult customer or someone who has tipped enough to make us shed tears and curses in the walk-in refrigerator. Remember, we get taxed by the government. Our checks do not reflect our hours worked because of the additional taxes the federal and state governments take. We make up the rest in tips. If you don't believe in tipping, please don't put a note or an excuse to justify your action because quite frankly, we don't care. Also, please don't write a big-fat zero for the tip because it just gets us angrier like we just been punched in the face. Us servers and bartenders know when we provided poor service and a low tip is expected because we are people too. We don't get offended when this happens and know we deserve it. I remember the time I was so busy, I was not able to give good service to one of my tables and expected a low tip or no tip at all. Thankfully I was wrong and they made my day.

     

Room for 7: kiss

NATHAN: My parents think we're dating.

KATIE: Mine think the same.

NATHAN: They even suggested the use of birth control. At least from my part.

KATIE: My mom said, "No babies until you graduate and get married and thirty." She was louder and angrier. I told her just because we're best friends and live close, literally, doesn't mean we are having sex or something.

NATHAN: I'm not used to hear the word "sex" in our conversations. The only time I used that word with you is when I asked you to fill my roommate application. What do you mean by "or something?"

KATIE: You know stuff like kissing, holding hands, touching places. Stuff couples do.

NATHAN: Oh. It's weird thinking about us moving forward in that particular direction.

KATIE: Do you think our friendship would be ruined if we move in that direction?

NATHAN: I don't know. I do have pondered what would feel to be in a close relationship with you. (long pause) Katie, Do you want to kiss?

KATIE: Yes. (they kiss)Do you want to go out on a date with me?

NATHAN: Absolutely.

I Don't Blame Video Games

I was a teenager when Play Station first came to the market. The idea of having a videogame console in the form of a CD was extraordinary. I had asked for a Super Nintendo for my birthday. When my parents took me to Best Buy and get one, the Play Station was also on display and it drew the attention of my tech-loving dad. He was persuaded by the salesman by using the advanced attributes the system had such as three-dimensional graphics, memory capability and lack of annoying cartridges which I notoriously "cleaned" like a wolf blowing down a pig's house. We took home the system and the free demo CD which I played over and over until I got my first game--Tomb Raider. I played it and passed it several times. I also had Tomb Raider 2 and 3 and passed them like an expert. Then I had Marvel Versus Capcom, Crash Bandicoot, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, Machine Hunter, and Metal Gear Solid. I was never a fan of sports games even though I played soccer and baseball. In my late teens I finally switched consoles and bought an Xbox with Max Payne as my first game for the system. Some of these videogames were rated "T" of "M" for teen and mature respectively. These were games I played over and over and my violent mentality never appeared. To this day I still prefer to avoid any violent confrontation. I didn't have a girlfriend until I was 18. I was an above-average student. And most important, I had a rather strict childhood. I had to do countless chores around the house. I had to wash the cars on weekends. I had to play a sport. I had to maintain passing grades in order to go out with my friends or play videogames. I had to help my mom take care of my younger sisters. All these chores were centered around my videogames. These extra additions were important for maintaining responsible video game playing habits. There is no argument that video games are violent because they are. I've played them. Even Mortal Kombat at my friend's house. What I don't agree is video games being the responsible factor of violence in this country. It can be if the parents allow video games to be above everything else. It is important for the parents to implement chores, extracurricular activities, mandatory good grades, community service and countless other activities which tips the balance to good behavior. Parents, please help keep videogames from becoming the center of a child's life. If Japan can do it, so can we.

Room for 7: ferrari

JACOB: Hey Nathan.

NATHAN: How can I help you?

JACOB: Did your grandpa ever owned a Ferrari?

NATHAN: I don't think so. He has been loyal to BMW since he could afford one. Why do you ask?

JACOB: That Ferrari up there. Is that his?

NATHAN: Yeah.(brings it down)Its actually a VHS rewinder.

JACOB: No way. This is so cool. I thought it was one of those model cars. This is an antique man. Does it work?

NATHAN: I believe it does. There's a box in the garage with VHS tapes. Would you like get one?

JACOB: Yes. Let's go.

(They go to the garage)

NATHAN: I found it.

JACOB: Nice. Look at all these videos. Die Hard, The Lion King, Titanic, Apollo 13, My Cousin Vinny, Congo, Notting Hill. Cool, is that relic a TV-VCR unit?

NATHAN: Yeah, it's my grandpa's. Pick one and we'll try the rewinder.

JACOB: Cats. Lets go.

(they go back to the living room)

NATHAN: Ok. Its ready to go.

JACOB: (takes tape out)Hello, What's this? This is not Cats, its an "X" rated video. This is your dad's porn. Or your grandpa's.

NATHAN: So sorry you had to see that. This box used to be in my dad's room.

JACOB: Very nice, the ol' hiding-the-video-where-mom-wont-find-it trick. Your dad was cool.

NATHAN: I'll dispose of it.

JACOB: Don't throw it away yet. I'd like to hang on to it. Just curious. Wanna watch?

NATHAN: No thanks. You can keep it and...uh, I don't need it back.

JACOB: Thanks man. I'll be in the garage.

The Natural Promise

Featured Piece: "Le Coucou" composed by  Louis-Claude Daquin (1694-1772)

Not Enough Yellow Tape

Forgotten Presidents

This is the time Donald Trump has shifted from a business man to the 45th President of the United States of America. His unorthodox views and uncensored opinion in his rallies and social media--primarily Twitter--have created an extremely loyal following. So loyal in fact, Mr. Trump can say virtually anything of insulting nature without changing the mind of the red-hat wearing "MAGA" crowds. His presidency has also inspired phrases like "fake news," "America first," "best president in modern history," "he says it like it is," "best president ever," and so on. These are the phrases which have divided the people of the United States. These are the phrases which discredit the history of the United States of America. We cannot say "best president in modern history" because there is no such thing as modern history. History is the study of the past. Its an oxymoron. When this phrase is said, the legacies of past presidents are meaningless. Legacies we still benefit from. How can the "best president ever" be above other presidents who have helped achieved far greater things such as: Thomas Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase; James Madison's conclusion of the War of 1812; James Monroe's Monroe's Doctrine and Liberia; James Polk's Smithsonian Institution and U.S. Naval Academy; Franklin Pierce and the Gadsden Purchase; Abraham Lincoln and the freedom of slaves; Benjamin Harrison's Sherman Anti-Trust Act, William McKinley's introduction of Guam and Puerto Rico into the U.S.; W.H.Taft being both President and Chief Justice; Woodrow Wilson's involvement in World War I; Calvin Coolidge and his implementation of Native Americans right to citizenship; FDR and his New Deal and his involvement in World War II; Dwight D. Eisenhower and the Interstate Highway system; JFK and the Civil Rights Movement; George H.W. Bush's Americans With Disabilities Act, and so on. There is absolutely nothing wrong with supporting your political party and president. Just as long as the support is not biased (though your opinion is protected by the Constitution) and the legacy of our executive predecessors forgotten. Donald Trump may not be able to purchase Greenland from Denmark. He may not understand how William H. Seward was essential in the purchase of Alaska. He may not understand the territorial purchases were facilitated by conflict. He can still give the American people a legacy worthy of remembrance other than being the most unorthodox president in "modern history." I think.

Room for 7: cappuccino

EDDIE: (comes in) Hey everyone! I brought donuts and coffee.

JACOB: Sweet! Hands off the maple bar.

NATHAN: I was never allowed to consume donuts as a child.

SAMANTHA: You poor thing. Your folks must have had you on croissants and tea.

NATHAN: They did actually.

SAMANTHA: Here. Start with this glazed one. Then work your way up to a bar, baked, jelly, sprinkles, coconut, French curler, sugar, crumb and twist.

KATIE: Wow. You sure know your doughnuts. Is your dad a cop?

SAMANTHA: Just because you see all those cops eating doughnuts on t.v. doesn't mean all of them do. But yes he is.

CARMEN: Did you bring my croissant and cappuccino?

EDDIE: Yeah. The croissant is in the white bag and the cappuccino is right here.

CARMEN:(sips)What the hell is this? This tastes like that cheap powder stuff in that dumb square tin they sell at the ninety-nine cent store.

SAMANATHA: You describe it like you used to drink it every morning.

CARMEN: Unfortunately yes.

EDDIE: I didn't go to Starbucks what'd you expect? This is donut shop cappuccino. They just press the button next to the hot chocolate and down it pours. No steaming required.

JACOB: Not only that but they spell cappuccino with a "K." Hot water and powdery vanilla goodness.

CARMEN: Here Nathan. This will be your first taste of real-cheap donut shop cappuccino. I'm off to Starbucks. Later.

NATHAN: Bye. This is good actually. Very sweet.

JACOB: Since princess left. I get to eat her croissant.

Alley Trash Stash

Steel a Good Alternative

     When I go to Starbucks I usually bring my own stainless steel cup for my iced coffee. Not only do I get ten cents off the price but my drink remains cold for a long time. Or hot if I get regular coffee or a latte. You can also save money on coffee and soda if you bring your own cup at Seven-Eleven.
     I tend to forget my stainless steel cup once in a while and I end up using the conventional plastic cup provided by Starbucks. When this happens, I use the plastic cup all day by refilling it with my daily intake of water. When I began to bring my stainless steel cup to Starbucks, I got the idea of taking it to other establishments like McDonalds. Well, it turns out they don't accept my cup for health reasons or whatever. I get it, they are being precautious. Even though this alternative to their non-reusable cup and straw is the best choice and somewhat eco friendly. Not only McDonalds but many places don't allow the use of personal cups such as Chick-Fil-A, Taco Bell, many Mexican and Chinese restaurants. Neither of these places has an obligation to be eco friendly. However, when an establishment wants to play the "save the earth" game, they should consider the best alternative--bringing your own cup. I bought my stainless steel cup for ten dollars at Target. I've had it for over a year and besides the scratches and bumps from daily use, its still keeps my drink hot or cold and prevents me from using plastic or paper alternatives...when the right place allows it. Just imagine if all restaurants would offer a discount when bringing your own cup.

     As far as straws, I think they should just be banned from restaurants altogether. If you really want a straw for your drink, bring your own. They are inexpensive and durable. Just clean them according to the instructions.

(2020 Addition)

     The Coronavirus pandemic made me rethink about this post published last year. While I still enjoy using a reusable beverage container, I understand the importance of preventing the spread of the virus. I know after the world reopens once again, restaurants will never be the same. It will not be optional to bring your own reusable cup to a coffee shop. That ship has sailed. Sanitation is no longer a term for trash removal services but a daily and constant procedure to kill as many germs, bacteria and viruses as possible. Though, the best thing a single individual can do to prevent the spread is daily hand washing.

Halloween: Last Saturday of the Month?

     Snickers has announce the one million candy car giveaway if the federal government changes the date of Halloween to the last Saturday of the month. Naturally, there were mixed reactions. Especially from the people whose birthday lands on October 31. I think this is a good idea. As a parent of course. I don't have to worry about taking my kid trick-or-treating on a school night. I don't have to worry about all the candy my son will consume Saturday night. I don't have to feel the need to get back early to sleep enough to wake up for work the next day. This is just from a parent standpoint. It is beneficial for the parents and the kids. Then again, what I really want to see is the last Saturday of October the night when kids can go out and ask for candy as if it were Halloween. October 31 should remain Halloween and have whoever wants to celebrate birthdays, scary parties, amusement parks, haunted houses and hayrides. The long tradition of Halloween should remain as immortal as July 4 or December 25. This may not technically count as changing the date officially and Mars Incorporated would probably have to withdraw their million candy bar promise.

New York Post: "Sorry, Childless Milennials Going to Disney is Weird"

New York Post article: Link    

     One of the best things about Disney Parks is the amount of activities aimed at people of all ages. It is no surprise most toddlers can instantly recognize the famous mouse from far away. I am a millennial, born in 1986, and have a four-year-old son. I recently attended Disneyland and realized the low level of enjoyment I had ensuring my son fully enjoyed the park. That gave me the idea of waiting until my son is old enough to return. A time he will actually enjoy the park and remember the trip for the rest of his life. In the meantime, as long as he is little, if I am going back to the park it will be without him. Because I do like Disney. It is one brand I associate with my childhood.

     I don't have a problem with millennials going to Disney without any kids because the park was designed for everyone. This millennial age is the best time to visit the park because it's fun. It is even more fun without kids. I noticed some parents pushing strollers with babies still in the bottle. It did not look fun and rather weird. Their faces looked tired and their attitude did not justify the happiest place on earth. When parents take their babies to Disney they have to feed them, change them, tend to them when they cry and the countless things I do not miss when my son was a baby. I can't imagine myself with a baby at Disneyland. No way. Those millennial parents with babies are the weird ones. You have to be a hardcore Disney fan to go with a child old enough to say "dada." One thing I noticed about the park are the countless spaces taken by the plethora of strollers. Just imagine if the park could eliminate just the double-seat strollers (I saw a lot of those). The capacity of the park could potentially increase. If you're a millennial without kids, take the trip to Disney if you can. Especially if you plan to have kids one day.

The Homeless Paradox

      I was confronted by a man in the supermarket early in the morning. He was in his late forties, untrimmed beard, long uncombed hair, oversized clothes, and overused white sneakers. With his hands in his pockets he looked at me and asked, "Excuse me sir, I am really hungry and I was just wondering if you could spare a dollar or whatever you'd like to offer?"
     I looked at him for a few seconds trying to decide if he was worthy of my money. He looked like he could work. He managed to walk all the way to the supermarket to ask for money. I had money. It was not going to affect me in any way. If I wanted, I could have given him a ten dollar bill. However, given the fact his appearance suggested he had strength and energy to work, I only gave him one dollar. He thank me and walked away.
     I approached the register to pay for my items and there he was with his friend and about to pay for two forty-ounce bottles of Miller High Life. I placed my items on top of the belt and could not believe what I had seen. He looked at me and said, "Thank you."
      "Is this what you used the money I gave you? You said you were hungry. What the hell?" I responded with veins on my fists.
      "I'm sorry I lied to you. The truth is we're hung over and need this to recover and get back to work." He said while his friend paid for their bottom-shelf malt liquor.
     He was about to say more but I interrupted him. I said, "Save it, don't care."
     That was not the first time I had been in a similar situation. One day, a boy in his teens approached me while I put my groceries away in the trunk of my car. He asked, "Excuse me. I am really hungry. Do you have any money I can have to buy some food?"
     I knew I didn't have any cash. I said, "Sorry kid. I don't have any cash. I just bought groceries. I can give you a banana and a bag of chips."
     To my surprise his response was "no" and walked away.
      Another time a man asked me in the parking lot outside a Starbucks if I could spare some change for food. Once again I didn't have any money. I extended my arm with a couple of muffins in a plastic bag as an offer. He rejected it. He placed his palm in his stomach and said, "Uh, well, no I can't. I have stomach problems."
     "Are you serious!? Then get the hell out of here!" I actually yelled. He walked away and towards the next person in the lot.
      Those three unfortunate occasions of rejected generosity are clear on my head. The times I have given money or food and accepted with gratitude are many and outweigh the others. I like to help. I don't mind sharing my hard-earned dollars with other less-fortunate individuals. My problem is when the individual uses the money for drugs or alcohol. I am quite sure there have been times when the individual abused the use of the money I have provided. As proven by the man with his bottles of malt liquor. Knowing what your charity is for can separate a good deed into a wasted effort of benevolence. Not knowing is a good deed used as a  personal act of satisfactory fulfilment of philanthropy with yourself. Therefore, if you are the type of person who likes to help others, are you ignorant and could care less for whatever the charity given is used for as long as it makes you feel good? Or are you the type of person who wants to help others but demands transparency in the charity given and used for nourishment and not a vice?
     Whatever the situation, if you give to a homeless person, be ready to accept the fact that money given can lead to a meal or a bottle. These people can be as honest and dishonest as ordinary individuals. I didn't like the three negative situations I was in with my charity. It will not change my mind about giving. I am going to give and hope for the best. I am going to give and feel good about it. I am not going to give if I get bad vibes from the individual because I should be giving and feeling good about it. The first time I was in San Francisco, I saw a homeless man holding a sign which read "Why lie I want a beer." I was impressed with his honestly and cleverness that I gave him five dollars.
   

Hechizo Joven

Jovenes escuchen ya

Tenemos algo que documentar

Somos los mejores

Sabemos los colores

Y todos los sabores

Entonces

No me trates como los menores

Estoy harto de sacar basura

Y de limpiar el piso

No se hable del patio

Que esta hecho un desastre

No quiero usar mi tiempo

Para impresionarte

Lo unico que quiero

Es irme con mis cuates

Y no lavar mas trastes

Si yo quiero studio

Si yo quiero trabajo

Si yo quiero duermo todo el dia

Hasta que la tarde se haga muy fria

Y la noche te traiga

Otra pesadilla

Si se puede te quito tu dinero

Me como tu comida

Te robo una cerveza

Uso tu carro con delicadeza

Uso la casa para una fiesta

Cuando te vallas de vacacionero

Y te dejare en cero

Algo que no entiendo

Porque castigarme?

Siempre lograba escaparme

Porque reganarme?

Siempre lograba filtrarte

Para que guiarme?

Todos tus consejos

Los tiraba a la calle

Lo unico que prendias

Era la luz del desmadre

Que iluminaba mi escape

Estaba en el fondo de un hoyo

Me meti en un rollo

Le hice caso a un vato

Y que me desbarato

No sabia como escapar

La ley la tenia como par

El juez me odiaba a morir

Y los polis me hacian sufrir

En el bote no podia ni dormir

Extranaba cuando me gritabas

Porque siempre enojado me sacabas

Hasta la espalda me sobabas

Ya entiendo que decias

Todos estos años yo no sabia

Tampoco te creia

Y menos cazo hacia

Estaba bajo un hechizo

De juventud loquera

Fuera lo que fuera

Siempre perdia la carrera

Todos mis amigos

Eran guias eternos

Me daban consejos

Solo que opuestos

Me daban un trago

Los seguia de vago

Me daban un toque

Luego un madrazo

Y aveces un repaso

No vale la pena

El dano que me daba

Los amigos que perdia

Corazones que rompia

La sangre que caia

Y el cazo que no hacia

Al final yo solo perdia

Pero ganaba la sabiduria

Vivo solo una vez

Yo entiendo todo al reves

Lo aplico mes tras mes

Y este sueño es como es

Room for 7: perfect steak

JACOB: What are you eating man?

DYLAN: (Sitting in couch, watching t.v.) Steak.

JACOB: There's some steak sauce in the kitchen. Want some?

DYLAN: Don't need it.

JACOB: I always use steak sauce on my steak.

DYLAN: I know. I always use steak sauce when you cook steak too.

JACOB: What's that supposed to mean?

DYLAN: You always overcook it. I like my steak medium, buttery and perfectly seasoned. 

JACOB: Wow! you just insulted my cooking skills, man.

DYLAN: You're a good cook. I really like your baby back ribs and fried chicken. You suck at steak though.

JACOB: Can I try a bite of your royal steak your majesty?

DYLAN: Sure.

JACOB:(takes bite)Damn. It's really good. I didn't realize steak sauce is an insult to steak. How'd you cook it?

DYLAN: I found a video on YouTube. Chef Ramsay taught me how to cook the perfect steak. I'll send you the link. So next time you cook steak, I better see the bottle of steak sauce in the trash.

JACOB: Can I have some more?

DYLAN: Nope.

Between the Walls

Ignore the signs and hold your load,
Don't let badges stop you cold.
Invisible is how to stop danger,
They see you and see a stranger.
Hold the hand of mom and dad,
Very tight and you'll be glad.
Crawl between very small spaces,
Don't get caught for the time races.
Avoid the light or game is over,
Use the plants and find some cover.
Allow the moon to clear your path,
Or you will feel their angry wrath.
Prepare to run be very silent,
Speed and stealth is your intent.
Don't look back you're almost there,
A victory sure is rare.
Your new life a few yards away,
A new flag is the only way.
This is not a dream it is quite real,
Pain is normal and it will heal.
Feel the soil of your new home,
A new place where you shall roam.
Nothing can steal your freedom,
And never forget where you come from.


Between the Walls (pdf)

Dirty Hands Blue Collar Man

    

      This is the gear of a man working for minimum wage. A man with a job in the morning and another at night. A man whose gear describes his limited resources. The hat to battle the sun as he walks from the bus stop to the doors of his job. The stained leather boots for walking from A to B to C. The power-packed meal to satisfy a hungry stomach before the next job. A charging cable for a simple cell phone. A black, durable leather jacket for the night journey home. This man works hard. He does jobs most of us don't want. The premises are clean and spotless thanks to his dirty hands. I am very fortunate to have him in my crew. What I need to do more often is thank him for all his hard work. I am sure you work with someone like him, thank him too.

"Arrangement in Green and Black"

     

     I made this in August 2013. I was not having a good day. I started with the black lines using India ink. Then I began experimenting with greens using color pencils. I finished by rubbing the pigments with a piece of cloth. Two hours later, it was completed and I was smiling with the result. By the way, my favorite color is green.

Room for 7: drive thru

CASHIER: Hi welcome to Mike's my name is Candace can I take your order?

EDDIE: Hi Candace. Yes, I will have a cheeseburger with fries, extra pickles and a Sprite. Please.

CANDACE: Would you like a small, medium or large Sprite?

EDDIE: Go big or go home.

CANDACE: What?

EDDIE: Sorry. Large please.

CANDACE: Anything else?

EDDIE: Yes, my friend would like a burger, no dressing, no onions, and a large diet Coke. Please.

CARMEN: Burger means no cheese! And make sure the lettuce doesn't have brown spots, the tomatoes are fresh sliced and my fries are freshly cooked! I don't want fries left under the heat lamp! I can tell the difference between those and fresh cooked ones as soon as I eat the first one when I get home!

CANDACE: Will that be all?

EDDIE: Yes. That will be all. Thank you for your patience. Jeez Carmen, do you have to do this every time we get a burger? And I though I was the annoying one.

CARMEN: I don't care. I pay for my food and I expect to get what I pay for.

EDDIE: This is not a gourmet burger joint. This combo is only $7.99 plus tax. I bet they're laughing their ass off in the kitchen.

Saving the Earth is Optional

     I took this picture in the bathroom of a mall in Orange County, California. I was amazed to see the sign suggesting the use of a hand dryer above the paper towel dispenser. It's like having a sing for "Go Vegan" on the meat counter.

Room For 7: gardening

EDDIE: Nathan, who told you to hire those gardeners?

NATHAN: No one. I saw them working on the house across the street and asked them to work on my house. Why? Do you think I am paying them excessively?

EDDIE: Not if they do a good job! It doesn't matter how much you pay them. Look at the front yard? It looks terrible.

NATHAN: It looks normal to me.

EDDIE: Maybe to the untrained eye. The grass is uneven; The bushes on the right need some trimming; The palm by the pool needs a haircut. Jeez, I'm already getting a headache just talking about it.

NATHAN: Can you be the one--

EDDIE: Hold it man! I know I'm Mexican but that doesn't mean I'm born with the gardening skills.

NATHAN: I meant, can you find someone for me? I would like you to vet them and hire them.

EDDIE: Easy. Here's the card.

NATHAN: (reads card)"Rodrigo's Landscape. Rodrigo Trinidad, Landscape Artist. Los Angeles." This is first time I hear a gardener call themselves "Landscape Artist." 

EDDIE: Yeah, my uncle doesn't like to be called a gardener anymore. Once he learned how to master the art of Topiary, he upgraded his official title.

NATHAN: What was the most impressive work he has done?

EDDIE: You know regular stuff like elephants, rabbits, that twister thingy, a penis.

NATHAN: Did you just say, Penis?

EDDIE: Yes I did. He wanted to piss off one of my cousins and he trimmed his front bushes into the shape of a penis. I would call that impressive all the way. That was a good day laughter and joy.

NATHAN: Hire him please. Professional work, nothing of phallic nature.

The Domination of Fast Food and Ubiquitious Existence

California Tire Shop

Constant Relocation

Different places under stress

City to city and never settle

Never resting, never satisfied

Always meeting, always goodbye

Leaving people in distress

Across the country to the north
Leaving complication, devaluation and corruption
Little children dragged by force
My young life was gradually robbed
From one place to another
With alleged peace from this day forth

Schools gave me an interesting education
No use crying in the class
When I was punished with angry hands
Some will give you stars and others scars
Fortune if someone didn't give a damn
Rules change, people change
The learning and pain stagnant at every relocation

Jobs became colored pins on maps

I did what I could to make some cash

Working hard and learning new ways every time

It is the curse of moving so much

Working days came with caps

Had a girlfriend here and there

Like flowers in a garden

Love and friendship so brief

Blooms began and never fully opened

Lack of water and attention

Petals fall, color fades,

A lasting loving living beauty was rare

Friends are easy to find
And difficult to keep
Many names to learn and retain
Faces fade like pearls in vinegar
Voices lost like water on sand
One or two engrained in mind

Family is temporary
When loyalty is betrayed
The shun takes effect
Cicadas will emerge
Time will eventually decide
Until connection is stationary

I can count the constants of life with one hand
The sun, the moon and the stars up above
My child born with all my love
The thought that I will eventually die
And be once again dust in the land

Text for Crime

Texting and driving
Not a skill or a privilege
But a crime pending

A crime indeed
But lives can be lost
And so easy to impede

Let the ringtone play
The vibration continue
And no one has to pay

Forget jail or fines
No amount or sentence
Can bring back lives

The facts are real
Statistics are there
From events that don't heal

Don't think drinking is worse
Danger is equally there
Just a different course

Room for 7: nathan's parents

NATHAN'S PARENTS DINING ROOM

MR. GARLAND: You know if you feel managing your grandfather's home is too much, you can always move back in. Your room is still your room.

NATHAN: Thanks dad. I find grandpa's house quite convenient. Its close to USC and the firm. 

MRS. GARLAND: Are your roommates giving you any trouble?

NATHAN: Not at all. They are good friends and helpful. Jacob for example is a mechanic and  just did my brakes and did not charged me anything. I did buy the parts. Carmen likes to cook. Eddie, well you have know him since we were kids. Samantha likes to clean the house. Katie is my best friend. Dylan is, well he does not like to clean or cook but he helps all of us when we need something.

MR. GARLAND: You should let me buy you a new car and avoid any major repairs. I don't like the car you drive.

NATHAN: I like Grandpa's BMW. Brakes are disposable items. Any car new or old will need brake pads. Besides, with grandpa out of the country, the car would have been dormant in the garage.

MRS. GARLAND: If you change your mind let us know and we'll go to the Lexus dealer immediately. Also, If you decide the firm is becoming stressful we will support you if you decide to leave.

NATHAN: Mom, I like working for grandpa. If I am going to take over the company when I finish college, then I need to work there and learn everything about Garland Investments. There is nothing stressful about working part-time at my future business. I love grandma and grandpa. If you two cannot get along with them, I should not be placed in the middle. I love all of you. If we are going to have dinner once a week, I would really appreciate it if we could avoid any family-business conversations. Anything else is fine.

MR. GARLAND: Fine, we'll change the topic. If you and Katie decide to be more than friends, make sure you use a condom.

NATHAN: Dad!

MR. GARLAND: You said talk about any other topic. Add sexual relations to the list then.

The Vague Life of a Man

I live in the city
Tall buildings
Large population
And smog a-plenty

I work in a factory
Good products are made
My boss is nice
I keep the inventory

I have a red car
With brand new tires
Fuel efficient
And takes me far

My apartment is small
Two bed, bath and kitchen
A parking spot nearby
And that is all

I like reading books
And watch television
Sometimes go to the gym
Since I worry about my looks

Social media is all right
I have a profile
Videos, messages and friends
Follow me tonight

I met a woman
Had a red purse and dress
Good looking and nice
And perhaps a tan

I have a small family
Parents and siblings
A few friends around
Sometimes I get lonely

I'd like a whiskey on ice
To help me forget
About this hectic life
Another chance to roll the dice

Room for 7: utilities

NATHAN: Listen up everyone, I have a copy of everything due for this month for each one of you. It will show an equal, consolidated amount we all have to contribute to pay for the bills: Internet, water, gas, electricity, landscaping, trash, and pool maintenance.

(Hands out copies)

JACOB: $42.71. That's all? Cash all right?

NATHAN: I take cash, credit, PayPal, money order, and personal check. Though if the personal check gets rejected you will have to pay the fines associated with it.

EDDIE: Oh man, I only have Bitcoin.

NATHAN: I will look into cryptocurrencies if such method is preferred by you Eduardo.

SANDRA: I think he's kidding Nate.

EDDIE: Please call me "Eddie." Eduardo sounds so formal. It also sounds like when my dad was about to whoop me with the belt. Eduardo!

NATHAN: Ok, Eddie. Give me the money but no later than tomorrow please. I will give you a receipt.

DYLAN: Will it be a paper receipt or electronic?

(Everyone laughs)

NATHAN: Both actually. I have your e-mail addresses in file if you request going paperless.

KATIE: I want to go paperless!

NATHAN: Consider it done.

CARMEN: Not me. I want paper. If you look at my email banner on my phone you'll see over a thousand unread emails.

NATHAN: One thousand? I can't close my phone until I have checked every single one.

JACOB: You read all your e-mails? You are one weird dude. All I do is delete, delete, delete. If I get one from you man, I would probably delete it.

DYLAN: You know what I want to delete? My grades.

SANDRA: I want to delete myself from this centure for I belong in a different era.

EDDIE: Ok Miss Miniver Cheevy...I want to delete what i just heard.

NATHAN: Edwin Arlington Robinson. Very good refrence Edua--Eddie. Can I please have my money?

Miniver Cheevy (poem)