In Spite Of It All (ISOIA)

Johnny Otis, R.I.P.

2012-01-20T07:29:00.002-05:00

Did this guy live a life or what!? He backed so many greats to make them greater (and then wrote about it.) Renaissance Man Now Gone.

Cheers,

Greg

"... living in a fool's paradise" - Mose Allison

2011-12-28T12:04:00.000-05:00

Minutes after I posted that warm-up article, I went out and didn't warm up sufficiently (for the 21F temperatures.) I have what is likely a partial tear in my left gastroc (right side)...No fun. I'm doing more of this now in addition to foam rolling, icing and remaining off my feet.

No Mr. Non Warm-up Guy!

Cheers,

Greg

A Thorough Warm-up

2011-12-27T05:35:00.000-05:00

I know I've skimped on warm-ups in the past, and I think some of my injuries are the result. This article presents a thorough (and thoughtful) warm-up:

Catalyst Athletics: Our Warm-up is a Warm-up by Greg Everett - Catalyst Athletics Articles

Cheers,

Greg

Mike DeStefano Puts Life In Perspective

2011-12-26T08:13:00.000-05:00

Is this what life is supposed to be or what? Read this article from top to bottom. Both their spirits flew on that ride, and Mike's flew on for the rest of his days.

Cesaria Evora, R.I.P.

2011-12-25T08:25:00.000-05:00

Cesaria Evora passed away last week. She didn't get a lot of notice in The States, but in her home country of Cape Verde, she was a giant. I've listened to her music, a style called morna, and it pulls you in slowly but completely. Check out her music. Cape Verde declared a 2-day period of mourning to celebrate her life.

Cheers,

Greg

Marianne Faithfull Plays Out

2011-12-25T08:14:00.000-05:00

A short interview with Marianne Faithfull reminded me of a night in the early 90's when I saw her at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge. She has a 5-piece band with her, and she performed what felt more like a living room set versus a concert set. She talked, sang and smoked her way through the past 25 years. I remember people around me being a little stunned at how accessible she was (right there in front of us, explaining where many of these songs came from, and lighting up whenever she pleased.) That was living art produced by the artist herself. You could not ask for more.

Cheers,

Greg

Kip Tiernan, R.I.P.

2011-07-04T06:14:00.000-04:00

Kip Tiernan, Rosie's Place founder, passed away from cancer on Saturday. Rosie's Place was the first place Boston women could spend nights off the street and be safe from physical violence. (The Pine Street Inn only accommodated men at the time.) If you read anything in Kip's obituary, go to the end and read her life story.

Rosie's Place sprung up in what most people still think of as a "bad part of town." Kip found space where she could find it and turned it into an oasis for women who truly had nothing but the clothes on the backs. The Elizabeth Stone House is another small institution making a difference in women's lives, too.

Today's ride, on Independence Day, will be with these women in mind.

ISOIA,

Greg

Clarence Clemons, R.I.P.

2011-06-19T07:22:00.000-04:00

Clarence Clemons, AKA The Big Man on sax in The E Street Band, died on Saturday. He had a stroke the previous Sunday and never recovered. This guy packed a punch in that band, and he added an unmistakable passion to live shows, too. Read his obituary, and you'll see he lived an energy-filled life. Very sad.

ISOIA,

Greg

Warren Zevon

2011-06-17T05:35:00.002-04:00

Warren would have enjoyed watching The Bruins this month.

ISOIA,

Greg

Fighting With Head and Hands

2011-06-12T09:45:00.000-04:00

Sonya Lamonakis packs a punch in the classroom and in the ring. Conditioning for the ring is tough training. Teaching in a classroom doesn't look like a simple task, either.

ISOIA,

Greg

Volunteer opportunities for web developer, web designer, or database designer in Afghanistan

2011-06-09T11:48:00.000-04:00

I met Azi when he visited Boston last year. He's a very nice guy with modest but focused goals. Bpeace works to institute positive change through the creation of jobs. I've been a member and supporter for almost a year now.

If you know anyone with the proper background looking to make a difference, here's an opportunity.

Help expand an exciting young company in northern Afghanistan with a director and staff passionate about growth. Work in a focused, warm and hospitable environment.

The non-profit organization Bpeace (The Business Council for Peace) is actively recruiting volunteers with experience in web development for RAHA, an IT service provider and technology training center for individuals in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan. The owner of RAHA, Azimulhaq Azimi, is an Afghan entrepreneur being assisted by Bpeace, a non-profit coalition of business professionals who volunteer to help small and growing businesses in conflict affected countries.

About Azimulhaq and RAHA
RAHA, a locally-owned and operated IT service provider company, was established in 2010 by Azimulhaq (Azi) Azimi and has enjoyed increased success in the Mazar-i-Sharif area. Azi is trained as a lawyer and civil engineer and started his career in a high-level position as the Youth Officer in Mazar. In 2010 he decided to start RAHA to take advantage of the burgeoning IT scene in Afghanistan. The company quickly took off and is currently involved with multiple projects, ranging from the development of promotional materials for young entrepreneurs in Balkh Province to company websites, database development and network creation for major municipalities in the region.

As a participant in the Bpeace Fast Runner program, Azi has benefitted from exposure to U.S. based IT professionals in diverse business environments. During this time Azimulhaq has proven to be a curious, eager and a rapid learner who is determined to compete against the large non-Afghan competitors.

For more information about RAHA and its specific goals and projects, please refer to the company website (in Dari, but Google Chrome will translate).

General Volunteer Description
Train RAHA staff of web developers, improving their competency and knowledge of web development and design and database design. The volunteer must be prepared to work in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan with Azimulhaq and his staff for a period of three to six months, supporting them through project lifecycles.

Compensation
This is an unpaid volunteer position; however, housing and a small stipend will be provided by Azi.

Job Responsibilities
 Train staff of 4 web developers, improving their competency and knowledge of web development and design.

 Act as project manager and mentor guiding RAHA staff on how to manage a project from beginning to end, for example:

Development of project proposal

Create work plan outlining project tasks and roles
 Identifying and organizing data for database consumption

 Aid in code architecture design

 Programming

 Help staff develop process manuals.

Technical Requirements

Developer
 Experience acquiring appropriate web-host services and web-site deployment.

 Knowledge and experience working with both, Windows and Linux hosting environments

 Minimum 2 years development experience working with ASP.NET and MSSQL database server.

 Knowledge of HTML.

 Java and/or PHP experience a plus.

 Knowledge of CMS applications such as WordPress or Joomla.

Designer
 Minimum 2 years experience designing websites.

 Experience with Photoshop and CSS.

 Ability to designing websites to run on multiple browsers across platforms.

 Knowledge of HTML.

 PHP and or ASP.NET a plus.

General
 Able to procure visa and travel.

 Experience working in or with small businesses a preference, but not required.

 Proven level of cultural competence; experience working or living in the developing world preferred.

 Experience teaching or training others to learn the above programs.

 Ability to work independently.

 Excellent communication skills.

 Flexibility; able to work in an environment in which there may be ambiguity and uncertainty.

 Sense of humor.

 Fluency in Persian a plus, otherwise a translator will be provided.

If you are interested in this position or would like additional information, please send resume to Marla Gitterman at mgitterman@bpeace.org.

About Bpeace
Bpeace believes the path to peace is lined with jobs. We work with entrepreneurs in conflict-affected countries, Afghanistan, Rwanda and El Salvador, to scale their businesses, create significant employment for all, and expand the economic power of women. More jobs mean less violence.®

Diana Jones At Amazing Arts Center

2011-06-06T04:57:00.000-04:00

Diana Jones stopped into The Amazing Arts Center in Framingham Saturday night. Unaccompanied on stage, she was accompanied by the stories and tales behind much of her music. She shared these details througout he 2 sets. You should listen to her; check out her website for more tour news and more information about her and her music. You can find her on Facebook, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

Owsley Stanley, R.I.P.

2011-03-15T19:48:00.000-04:00

I've read so much about Owsley Stanley over the years I feel like I had met him. I was one of those East Coast Kids enthralled with the Acid Tests. Nothing remotely that cool happened in Boston.

ISOIA,

Greg

Bike Riding Squared

2011-03-08T06:58:00.000-05:00

Watch this from start to finish.

Ken Olsen, R.I.P.

2011-02-08T06:41:00.000-05:00

Ken was truly an enigmatic figure wandering the halls and meetings at Digital. How could that guy driving the Ford sedan and wearing the boring suit be such a pioneer and such a leader in the digital world!? His obituary includes a reference to "... hired smart people..." (I snuck in) and it was true. I was surrounded by hard working innovative people who in almost every case were as equally invested in my work as they were in their own work. It was the "He who proposes does." culture, where if you had an idea, you could run with it. I was spoiled to being around people like that. I developed several life long friendships there, and I developed some personal and professional patterns that continue to serve me well (if to only frustrate me at times.)

Yes, Ken was openly skeptical of personal computing. (I used a personal Macintosh in some of my work as did many around me.) It's also true that he maintained a world class reference library system with connections to collegiate and private libraries. We also had the Technical Seminar Series in Engineering where we brought in researchers and developers from all aspects of computing and from around the world. It was a job I never regretted going to every day.

ISOIA,

Greg

2010 CrossFit Games Promo

2011-01-09T19:20:00.000-05:00

Normal people competing beyond everyday limits as a result of training, commitment and belief.

2011 Fitness Goals

2011-01-09T15:06:00.000-05:00

2011 Goals Include:

Body Weight (uninterrupted)

- Double Unders: 21

- Pullups: 15 kipping; 9 strict (forward grip & back)

- Hand Stand Push Up: 1

- Hand Stand Walking: 5 steps

- Rope Climbing: 1 trip no legs

- Knees to Elbows: 9

- Muscle Ups: 1

- Pistols: 5/leg

CrossFit

- Goals: Post/Measure Monthly

- Goats: Plan/Work 2 Weekly

- Rx: 15%

Endurance

Cycling

- Add Power and HR Monitors

- Charlie Baker Time Trial Series: 10 times; 23.5mph at end of season

- Maine Time Trial Series: 3 races

- George Street Bike Challenge: 32:55

Running

- Go POSE

- Mile: 7:52

- 800M: 3:34

- 400M: 1:34

Rowing

- 2000M: 7:35

- 500M: 1:40

Lifting (1-rep max)

- Back Squat: 185lb

- Bench Press: 165lb

- Deadlift: 305lb

- Front Squat: 155lb

- Clean and Jerk: 135lb

- Over Head Squat: 155lb

- Power Clean: 145lb

- Snatch: 135lb

Personal

- Annual New Sport: Board Surfing

- Body Fat: 15%

- Journal: Daily

- Meals: 5 Daily, Small and Self-Prepared (90%)

- Mobility: Daily (work or home; varied)

- Nutrition: Paleo 85%

- Self-massage Legs: Nightly

- Sleep: 8 hours/day

- Yoga: 1/week

Goal setting is a major aspect of CrossFit. CrossFit for each of us is supposed to be measurable, so if you can't quantify your goals in advance and then track them, you're not getting enough from your workouts.

We have a monthly goal white board at CrossFit New England, in addition to the daily WOD boards and boards with the top performers in the many WODs, lifts and movements. I haven't been as quantitative as I could be, and after taking an extended break and coming back at a lesser fitness level, I really need much smarter about my training.

These are challenging goals (including Sleep), and I spent a total of 4+ hours working on these over the past week. I'm going after them, too.

Cheers,

Greg

James MacArthur, R.I.P.

2010-10-29T06:11:00.000-04:00

Hawaii Five-O's original Danno passed away on Thursday. He was a regular on television and in the movies. He always brought a lot of energy to his roles.

ISOIA,

Greg

Stephen J. Cannell, R.I.P.

2010-10-03T10:16:00.000-04:00

Stephen J. Cannell passed away last week. He was responsible for many of my all time favorite TV shows. He often showed up in them, too. The Rockford Files. The A-Team. The Greatest American Hero. Wiseguy. 21 Jump Street and many more. A great creative mind and a fun guy,too.

ISOIA,

Greg

Pedal for Peace 2010

2010-09-17T05:30:00.003-04:00

Saturday, September 11th proved to be an ideal day for cycling with Pedal for Peace 2010, a Bpeace fund raising event held in Brunswick, Maine. Malcolm and I completed the 25-mile loop (and redesigned it into a 21-mile loop!) in around 3 hours. The event raised $24,210 as of the 10th. Bpeace (AKA the Business Council for Peace) believes that social change is best facilitated through the creation and emergence of jobs. My experience hiring and training people (and having a few jobs of my own) plus the grassroots orientation of Bpeace has drawn me into becoming a member and looking for additional ways to support their work.

Malcolm and I raised a total of $4,350 for Team Indian Island! I'm really awed by your generosity...several people made more than one donation (no, we didn't program a sticky Submit key!) and we received donations throughout the past month. Matching donations based on our funds raised through September 10th pushed us above the $4K mark.

We started out at Nine Acre Woods: Malcolm's Playhouse in Durham, Maine.

Our team car was recently rescued twice due to a high speed blowout and a dead battery. The blowout was close to a Mobile Station (and AAA), and the dead battery was discovered upon emerging from Dunn Gaherin's If you have to have a dead battery, there's really no better place to find yourself than Dunn Gaherin's.

Our bikes were ready to ride:

Malcolm went out before breakfast to clean and lube his bike. I waited until we got to the start.

The start was located outside the Frontier Cafe in Brunswick. Frontier is a major sponsor. They provided delicious lunches for the riders, too. We arrived at the start with Diane (Malcolm's mother) driving the team car. We off loaded our bikes, set them up and proceeded to check in.

We received our tip sheets outlining our route and proceed to pose for any paparazzi in the area. Malcolm believes in silent meditation before a ride. Me, I prefer to get tattooed.

We checked the tip sheet before heading out of the parking lot and through downtown Brunswick.

I don't really like tip sheets. If there are ride signs along the route or marks on the road, I'm in. If I have to constantly read (and remember) details like Sycamore Road (1.9mi) and then Elm Street (2.4mi), my eyes glaze over (more than usual) and I get a little pissy. (Just ask Diane when she saw me reading the tip sheet.) When I get on my bike, I want to ride. When I go to work, I want to process details. Who combined them!? This was a simple route, and I have ridden and driven in this area many times, so I thought we'd be fine. I had my cell phone, and I have good dead reckoning skills (honed from exploring new cities on foot and the proliferation of gas stations when I go off course in the car.)

We posed for a team photo and then headed out:

We rode carefully through downtown Brunswick. I love this town...it's really a town, although you would think it's a city. Diane told me that Brunswick is the largest town in the U.S. It's also a very cool town. Did I mention that there's a Bullmoose Music in Brunswick?

Emerging from the downtown area and riding through Bowdoin College, we took a right onto Pleasant Hill Road. This was a very unpleasant road, at least for me. I was looking back at Malcolm to ensure he made the turn close to the shoulder and out of traffic when my front wheel hit a stone and large bolt in quick succession. Down I went. I had one hand on the handlebars, and I wasn't looking ahead at the time... Poor Poor Pitiful Me (Warren, we miss you.) It was a slow fall, and fortunately, in Maine, the cars don't automatically try to turn you into speed bump. Traffic was light, and once I was done swearing (Sorry, Malcolm. Diane, he knew those words already, really.) I got up and onto the grass shoulder. Malcolm, of course, was already on the grass shoulder.

I slid on my right glove, palm down and ended up with a sore wrist, a sore shoulder and a little bruise on my right hip. Lucky, I was. I threw some air into my rear tire and that was all that was needed. Several other Pedal for Peace riders came by and offered help. (If I seemed pissy, people, it was only due to (a) cue sheet blindness and (b) my own stupidity for not looking ahead before looking back at The Micro Dude. Sorry.)

Once we remounted, we rode through wide well maintained roads with plenty of great scenery:

We ran into some more Pedal For Peace riders, and they took our picture at FireFly Lane:

Malcolm started the ride telling me he wasn't used to riding hills. We had plenty of them on this ride. As we went along, he rode with much more confidence and tempo. The Dude was happy!

We came across a local artist who uses bike wheel rims to make art. This was off course but definitely welcome!

Yes, we were not on the official route at this time. We improvised. We adapted. We decided that it would be better to be back early rather than see more hills. It was the right thing to do. Two of the ride volunteers from Bowdoin stopped to offer us drinks and snacks and to check on our orientation: Yes, we knew the way back to Brunswick, and I wish I had snapped their photo. They were very cool and helpful. Our own personal feed zone!

I know the country and the world are both filled with gorgeous vistas and wonderful experiences, but being out on your bike with friends on a nice day on perfect Maine roads is a blissful experience close to home.

We made it back into Brunswick and the finish line:

Diane was there to greet us, and we feasted on roll-ups from Frontier at a sun filled table.

All in all, this was a GREAT experience for Malcolm and me. We both appreciate your support. I'm already planning to ride in 2011. Malcolm doesn't know it yet, but he is too! Malcolm: Next year, YOU will be the Team Captain, I promise!

ISOIA,

Greg

Pedal for Peace 2010 Update

2010-08-28T06:42:00.000-04:00

My thanks to all of you who are supporting Pedal for Peace 2010. There are 2 weeks remaining before the ride. Malcolm (Age 9) is training between karate, basketball, and school work, and I'm working, working, and working...but I'll get in some rides, too. We're doing the 25-mile ride so Malcolm gets to experience coming across the finish line a winner in more ways than one. I'll be in New York City next week, and I will see if I can stop into the Business Council for Peace office to meet more of the team. Pictures would follow.

ISOIA,

Greg

Pedal for Peace

2010-08-17T06:26:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends,

On September 11, 2010 Malcolm MacKenzie (Age 9) and I will be riding through beautiful Brunswick, Maine as part of the 2nd Annual Pedal for Peace ride. Pedal for Peace benefits (Bpeace) an organization of volunteers that teaches entrepreneurial skills to women in Rwanda, Afghanistan, and El Salvador. These women are adopting and adapting skills that will make a difference in their communities for generations. With your help, this difference can be magnified.

Malcolm and I are riding as Team Indian Island. Our team fund raising goal is $1,000. This is Malcolm’s first fund raising ride, and it’s going to be his longest ride, too.

Donations of any size will make a difference. Please consider making a modest (and secure) donation through this link.

Thank you so much for your support.

Cheers,

Malcolm and Greg

Tower Records, R.I.P. (for the last time)

2010-07-27T06:40:00.000-04:00

I came across this article about Russ Solomon, the founder of Tower Records finally stepping away from the retail counter on one of the No Depression blogs. I still have two Tower Records bags I use to hold new sponges under the kitchen sink. I spent A LOT of time at Tower in Boston (at the corner of Mass Ave and Newbury Street.) They were almost always a friendly bunch, especially when they were relatively unchallenged in this area. (I also frequented Newbury Comics around the corner, but Tower had more Jazz and World Music. They had a greater selection of CD singles, too.) I still recognize a few of those Tower people at shows around this area and at other music shops.

That Tower location's street level floor used to hold a bar I frequented in high school and college (when IDs were something few asked for and fewer carried.) It was a deep dark place with a long wooden bar and a mirror behind it that ran the length of the bar. They had solid wooden booths that were shaped like church pews. It was ALWAYS cool in that space when it was broiling outside. That location holds a Best Buy now. (I was in there recently looking at TVs.)

What does it say about a location that one frequents it for decades? When I was separated on my way to divorce, I walked into that Tower and took the escalator to the second floor. There, standing like a statue, was a Goth Guy. I asked him "What are people reading now to stay informed about new music?" (Almost no new music during my married period; several Gregs ago.) He showed me 3 magazines (which I subsequently subscribed to) that pushed me just like I needed to be pushed at that time. I still have some of those magazines, and I continue to follow many of the artists I initially read about in those magazines.

ISOIA,

Greg

Face to face with "ashes to ashes"

2010-07-11T20:40:00.000-04:00

Today a group of friends and I spread the cremated remains of Steve Rotty and Carol Nichols at Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet. Judy, Steve’s wife, flew out this past week from Long Beach to participate in this ritual for Carol, and she brought Steve’s remains with her. (She spread some of Steve remains at his parent’s gravesites earlier this week.)

Judy and Carol were lifelong friends from Braintree. Steve was also from Braintree and grew up a few streets from the Nichols family. All three of them were lifelong friends. Judy was joined by eight more of Carol’s closest friends. Ann and Cathy were lifelong friends of both Carol and Steve. I never knew this group got together in the Wellfleet/Provincetown area each year, every year, since high school. (Steve and Judy moved to Long Beach shortly after they were marries, so Judy missed these group gatherings until this past week.) I’ve been renting in this area, either for weekends or for weeks on and off for the past 20 years. I’ve been going to this beach ever since Steve introduced it to me. (There’s a small container of Cahoon Hollow Beach Sand on my desk at home. When Steve was sick, I sent him a container.)

Both Carol and Steve developed cancer and left us all way too soon. I met Steve Freshman Year at Northeastern over a card game. I met Carol shortly afterwards at one of the MANY parties Steve threw at his parents’ house in Braintree. Carol was always a lot of fun – and we HAD a lot of fun at these house parties (Thanks to Steve’s Parents!) and at the beach parties Steve organized at Cahoon Hollow. I’ve been going to this beach ever since I first attended/survived one of these beach parties. (Judy has video that I will try to post in the future.)

Judy organized the beach scene today: We each had a small plastic pail of remains and a small plastic shovel. We were well away from anyone and well out of sight, too. (It was an overcast day when we arrived, and the beach was not very busy.) Everyone was asked to do what they wanted to do. When I got my pail, I took good look at what was in it. The irony of Steve and Carol together one last time wasn’t lost on me – she was a ball of energy at those parties, and having met several people who worked with Carol, she was a great colleague and friend, too. Steve and I did a lot together (including Best Men for each other), and we got to spend a solid week touring Utah, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho in 2001. Steve used to call me on my birthday – he never missed a year. I still don’t believe he isn’t calling again this year: Steve died on December 12th, 2007. Carol died on June 4th, 2009.

Some people walked off together or alone and spread their remains down the beach. I waded out into the water and spread mine on the waves. I love these waves, and Steve introduced me to them. They are usually pretty big, and today they were epic. Almost no one at the beach was in the water today – too likely to take a beating. I wished I had worn my bathing suit instead of shorts for a moment, but I didn’t want to leave the group. I’ll be back to swim. The water was surprisingly warm today.

When we got back together on the beach, we took some photographs of the group and headed up to The Beachcomber for lunch. We had some laughs over lunch, and I think that took the sting out of the day for many of us. I have made a few tributes to Steve (including the tattoo that starts on my right shoulder) and I paid him another one today that I know he would have appreciated: I passed (legally, except for speed of course…) every car I saw today between the moment I left my driveway until I reached the Route 6 Harwich exit (where I stopped for breakfast with my family.) We used to drive kind of fast…not recklessly but with precision. (We were engineering students; need I say more?) On our 2001 road trip, Steve told me I was the only one he felt comfortable with when riding as a passenger in a car. I’m the same way – I hate being a passenger, and I knew I would get where I was going when Steve was driving his red Dodge Dart back in school or that 4WD rental out west.

I used to quote an excerpt from Jackson Browne’s For A Dancer when I had to talk about people passing: “I don't know what happens when people die. Can't seem to grasp it as hard as I try.” I know I’ve written this in condolence cards and thought it frequently when looking at death, including on the ride home today. I thought I’d revisit the entire song today:

Keep a fire burning in your eye

Pay attention to the open sky

You never know what will be coming down

I don't remember losing track of you

You were always dancing in and out of view

I must have thought you'd always be around

Always keeping things real by playing the clown

Now you're nowhere to be found

I don't know what happens when people die

Can't seem to grasp it as hard as I try

It's like a song I can hear playing right in my ear

That I can't sing

I can't help listening

And I can't help feeling stupid standing 'round

Crying as they ease you down

'Cause I know that you'd rather we were dancing

Dancing our sorrow away

(Right on dancing)

No matter what fate chooses to play

(There's nothing you can do about it anyway)

Just do the steps that you've been shown

By everyone you've ever known

Until the dance becomes your very own

No matter how close to yours

Another's steps have grown

In the end there is one dance you'll do alone

Keep a fire for the human race

Let your prayers go drifting into space

You never know what will be coming down

Perhaps a better world is drawing near

And just as easily it could all disappear

Along with whatever meaning you might have found

Don't let the uncertainty turn you around

(The world keeps turning around and around)

Go on and make a joyful sound

Into a dancer you have grown

From a seed somebody else has thrown

Go on ahead and throw some seeds of your own

And somewhere between the time you arrive

And the time you go

May lie a reason you were alive

But you'll never know

Carol and Steve dancing in those waters off Cahoon Hollow Beach. Running in and out over the sand together. I like that.

ISOIA,

Greg

Bpeace: Making a difference one person at a time

2010-06-03T07:00:00.001-04:00

If you're not familiar with Bpeace and their work, it's time you learned something about them. Check out their blog. They have an annual cycling fund raiser in Brunswick, Maine that I'm planning to ride.

ISOIA,

Greg

Walk This Way

2010-06-02T05:00:00.001-04:00

Matt Green is walking across America this year. He gave up working in a cubicle for the truly open road. He had a plan, and it seems to be working. He started giving walking tours of New York City, and as he increased his capacity to walk longer distances, his tours got longer and he found himself enjoying life more. Matt posts updates from his cell phone; check him out.

ISOIA,

Greg

Stieg Larsson

2010-05-26T04:46:00.000-04:00

If you haven't read his 3 books yet, what's holding you back!?

Cheers,

Greg

"One Bourbon. One Scotch. One Beer."

2010-05-02T07:08:00.000-04:00

With the water issue at hand, I've been forced to return to roots blues and adopt a familiar refrain for remaining hydrated. Fortunately, I have plenty of bourbon, scotch and beer at my disposal. Bottled water, too, but I need that for cycling and cooking. I just rolling-boiled a lobster cooking pot's worth of water. I'll be doing a few more of those throughout the day. Off for a 3-hour ride with bottles stoked with Gerolsteiner.

ISOIA,

Greg

Amy Palmiero-Winters Kicks Ass

2010-04-26T11:06:00.000-04:00

I should know. Mine got kicked a bit on Saturday. Amy's story is something else. It's just what I need to keep motivated, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

Don't Walk On By

2010-04-10T06:58:00.005-04:00

My good friend Lynette is participating in this year's National MS Walk on behalf of her sister, Pat. Lynette is looking for sponsors, so if you haven't supported someone trying to make a difference lately, here's a great opportunity. You can support Lynette's mission here.

Lynette was the finance engine supporting some of the program management work I did at Verizon a few years ago. We've since knocked around NYC and Northern NJ more than a few times. (Lynette can see Bruce Springsteen's and Bon Jovi's homes from her kitchen window. Well, sort of.)

Multiple Sclerosis is a deceiving disabling disease. Support Lynette in anyway you can, and maybe like other national celebrities, you'll be able to see strategic locations from your kitchen window someday, too!

ISOIA,

Greg

"Take your wannabe clothes and go home."

2010-04-04T20:55:00.000-04:00

Saturday I rode the Cape Cod Rail Trail from Harwich to Wellfleet and back. I started much later than usual as I drove down Saturday morning at 6AM and had breakfast with my family in Harwich before setting out. I was riding my time trial bike. This was to be a gentle ride for the first leg (to Wellfleet) to warm-up and get (more) used to this bike. I got 5 hours sleep Friday night and had a beer late Friday night (for me) before dinner. I kept all this in mind as I wanted to train through this ride and have something left for a Sunday ride.

I enjoyed my warm-up leg, and I was plenty warm before I got to Wellfleet. I was able to push it for the last third of the Trail. If there's one thing the trail is not, it's not flat (much.) I enjoyed the sensation of pushing this bike faster and going faster still. When I got to Wellfleet, I checked out the General Store and the (ever expanding) bike shop adjacent to it. I stopped for a GU and thought about all the times I've pulled into this strip in car and now on bike. I started back with plans to push it more when it was safe to do so.

I usually get out on this route closer to 7AM. I try to get the first leg done while there's no one on the trail (or only other serious/delirious) cyclists out early. I'll turn around in Wellfleet around 8:15 or so or jump on Route 6 and ride to and around Race Point and then Provincetown to make it a 100-mile ride. I don't need all those miles right now. When I do ride to Provincetown, I make it a point to stop at Far Land for a coffee, water and food. The coffee is great, and so is the food. Friendly people, too.

This trip, I was on my way back and around 35 miles into my ride. I was passing a slow moving cyclist who was passing a walker when I heard "Asshole." directed at my back. That got my attention. I turned around and rode back to the cyclist. I said "What did you say?" He said "Asshole. Don't you know the laws of the road?" I said "You mean 'On your left.' I said it. I always say it." He said "No you didn't." OK - Maybe it's not the law of the road, but I do say it all the time, including this time. I looked closer at this guy: wearing think corduroy shorts bunched up and 3-4 layers of shirts. He had earbuds in. I said "You've got earbuds on. You didn't hear me." He said "I can hear you." He then looked ME over and said "Take your wannabe clothes and go home." (I was wearing my vintage Doug MacKenzie apparel: yellow Descente jersey and black Assos knickers.) You can call me an asshole but call me a poser too!? I had one sentence left in me (which is better left untyped) and I rode off.

He kept me thinking though: I ride very conservatively in crowds, around children and dogs, and when there's a possibility of whacking someone when I pass. I also offer help when I see cyclists stopped and fiddling with their bikes. I DO notice that fewer and fewer people on any trail know what "On your left." means and/or pay attention when I say it. I try to stay off trails during peak times (and use them then only for slow recovery miles.) I rode much of The Charles River bike trail this afternoon for some mostly slow easy miles, and almost no one responded to my "On your left." and "On your right." That's a reminder that I really don't belong out there at that time. I saw the same thing on the Cape Cod Rail Trail Saturday, especially with families on rental bikes and on my return leg. (Don't the rental companies tell riders this stuff!?) I don't see "the laws" on trail-side signs, either.

ISOIA,

Greg

Gray Hair Is Cool!

2010-04-02T12:55:00.000-04:00

If you wait long enough... Who would have thought it: Gray hair is cool. Maybe the iPad wasn't cool enough so a different trend had to emerge!?

Emmylou Harris has been gray (and unbercool) for a very long time. Lots of others, male and female alike, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

Alex Chilton, R.I.P.

2010-03-30T05:44:00.000-04:00

I just learned that Alex Chilton passed away on march 17th. If you're not up on your Alex Chilton (shame shame), you can see the impact he had by reading Chuck Prophet's tribute to him. Of course, if you don't know Chuck Prophet, ... You still have time.

Alex Chilton "... rose to prominence ..." in the Box Tops (1960's) with major hits like The Letter, and Cry Like A Baby. When the Box Tops ended, he performed solo for a while and then formed Big Star (1970's.) Big Star was a reference point and influence for many of the 1980's bands that made headlines (R.E.M. being one of them.) They didn't stay together for very long, and they continue to influence new bands. Alex continued to tour and perform solo gigs. He was still performing when his health deteriorated suddenly and he expired. Dead at 59. Another reason to get out there and live every day like... You know what I mean.

I'm playing Big Star today. You should be, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

New Music and Carrie Newcomer at Passim in Cambridge

2010-03-30T05:29:00.000-04:00

I finally got to see Carrie Newcomer perform Saturday night. She performed at an early show at Passim in Cambridge. She didn't disappoint: She played for almost 2 hours and told many of the stories that led to her writing the songs she then performed. She performed several songs off her new CD, Before & After, and she played hits and favorites from her previously released CDs, too. Carrie is a Quaker, and she told a few Quaker jokes. (Lots of groans from the audience who all seemed to know her personally.) I'm listening to Before & After this week: Mary Chapin Carpenter performs with Carrie on the title track. The entire CD is great listening. I'll be listening to this for a while...I have Carrie's earlier releases, and they're solid, too. Carrie is performing throughout the U.S. right now. Try to see her. You won't be disappointed.

I'm also listening to She & Him Volume Two this week. M. Ward and Zooey Deschanel together in music, again. Volume One was a pretty big hit (and good listening), and Volume Two is even more engaging. This release could have been made in the 1960's when upbeat, intelligent pop music was used in movies and serial television programs to support or amplify the story (as opposed to sell soundtrack CDs which is often the case, today.) Zooey's voice is a joy to hear as she performs in front of Matt Ward's arrangements and playing. Matt sings here, too. Zooey wrote the lyrics for all but 2 of these songs. (The other 2 songs are covers.) This is music you will like, and it will make you feel good!

ISOIA,

Greg

Raw Milk Ruckus

2010-03-25T06:39:00.004-04:00

I started drinking raw milk last week. I'm eating raw cheeses, too. There's a stink about raw milk...but I believe this is a healthy thing to do. I can't drink it in large quantities yet. I haven't consumed dairy milk since high school.

I get my milk and cheese at Lawtons Family Farm in Foxboro, MA. The lead dairy farmer is a former FDA inspector (talk about Yin and Yang.) I plan to be a regular and to start purchasing their meat, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

Fess Parker, R.I.P.

2010-03-19T06:16:00.003-04:00

Fess Parker died on Thursday. His identity is likely different based on your age and wine drinking habits. I saw him on television (repeats, I think) and stayed in the Fess Parker Inn for a week in 1992 while in Santa Barbara for week long conference. Steve came up from Long Beach for a few days that week, and we got to hang out a bit. That week, Keith and I explored the small club scene in Santa Barbara as the conference was of little value to our work. I was back there for a day this past November for my memorial tattoo for Steve. (Pat Fish's work brought me to her studio. It WAS great that she was only a few hours from Long Beach, so Judy, Lisa and Brian could see this tattoo the next day.)

Back to Fess Parker. He embodied that strong, silent type iconic presence that is still brought to the silver screen (large and small.) One difference is that Fess lived it off screen, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

What else are you doing while you're training?

2010-03-18T06:23:00.003-04:00

More and more workout facilities are adding television and other attention grabbers to both get you there and to keep you there. Is that a bad thing? I watch recorded television shows while using my indoor trainer. Fumbling with the remote has been bad for my cadence, I've mastered the remote-in-the-jersey-pocket transition now.

Getting people to address fitness seems like a good thing even if it might take your attention off your form. What do you think!? When I'm riding outdoors, I don't use anything, and I do concentrate on my form and technique. This article got me thinking about eliminating the TV viewing indoors. I'm almost exclusively on the road now, so the indoor work is fading anyway.

ISOIA,

Greg

Christian Hosoi

2010-03-14T20:21:00.002-04:00

I just finished watching Rising Son: The Legend of Skateboarder Christian Hosoi. I wasn't familiar with Christian Hosoi's story. This is a great story filled with some epic skateboard moves and a true to life story of the twists and turns life can toss at someone at the top of their game. Christian's turnaround in life is as inspiring as his moves on a skateboard.

I've watched Dogtown and Z-Boys a few times, but Christian's story as told here is more personal and a little more accessible, too. Christian's skateboard moves are also more dramatic than anything I remember on the Dogtown DVD. He grabs much more air than anyone on the Dogtown DVD.

Thanks to Al for pointing me to this DVD. Highly recommended. Don't try those moves in your living room (or anywhere else!)

ISOIA,

Greg

Corey Haim, R. I. P.

2010-03-11T05:54:00.002-05:00

Corey Haim passed away yesterday. Life can take some strange twists while you're living it. Who would have thought he'd grow into the person he became when you look at his movies. Not me.

ISOIA,

Greg

Bob Biniak, Z-Boy, R.I.P.

2010-03-07T06:48:00.003-05:00

If you haven't seen Bob Biniak skate in Dogtown and Z-Boys, you need to. The story is fascinating, the skating is amazing, and the commitment these kids possessed is inspiring. Bob was an extreme skateboarder amongst a small group of kids who pushed skateboarding to national prominence. You need to see this movie if you haven't already.

ISOIA,

Greg

Jeff Beck

2010-02-15T14:12:00.001-05:00

And now, some words from and about Jeff Beck: I never get tired of listening to his music. A new CD hits the streets in April.

ISOIA,

Greg

Peace, Love and Soul

2010-02-07T19:28:00.002-05:00

Forty years ago, my sister Roberta and I would watch Soul Train without killing each other. There weren't many things we both liked, but this was definitely one of them. Brother Don Cornelius brought many mainstream and breaking artists into our house through these Saturday shows.

Watching the videos just now, I realized that I cloned some of these dance moves. Well, not "some". More like a fraction of one or two. I knew I couldn't dance, but there'd be occassions when I could really get it on out there. I actually received a few kudos (and no, not from the drunks up against the walls.) I never knew where it came from.

"Peace, love and soooooooooooooooul." was how Don signed off each week.

ISOIA,

Greg

New Juliana Hatfield CD:

2010-02-02T20:13:00.002-05:00

Do yourself a favor and pre-order this CD directly from Juliana. You can read the liner notes in advance. You can take my word for it - you want this CD. You need it, too.

If for some unearthly reason you decide this isn't a CD for you, go directly to the bathroom, splash cold water on your face, and get right back out there and listen some more. I've never been disappointed in Juliana's music. You won't either.

ISOIA,

Greg

Paris-Brest-Paris 2011 Announcement

2010-01-24T08:14:00.004-05:00

My goal for this year is to prepare for my 2011 goals. The Big Enchilada for 2011 is Paris-Brest-Paris, a 1200 km amateur ride against the clock in France. On this ride, there are more than two dozen checkpoints along the course to ensure you are riding at or above the minimal pace. If not, you are DNF'd (Did Not Finish, for those of you sane people.) There are no more than two dozen English speaking people associated with the race and on the course, so one must know how to speak and preferably read French, too. Another goal for me.

The announcement brochure was just posted. The French have a light hearted spirit about things we Americans are often hard headed about. Here's one Safety statement: It is recommended to wear a helmet. I had to laugh when I read that one...Sure, we need to wear reflective vests at night and have lights front and rear up too certain standards, but helmets are optional. Given how hot is can be in France in late August, I think most riders will appreciate this statement. I know I'll take my helmet off once in a while to really cool off.

Doug did this ride in 1991 and finished with 10 minutes to spare. I was fortunate to have been along to crew for him with Diane. Over the 4 days of Doug riding, I got 4 hours of sleep and had an epic adventure (often behind the wheel at somewhat questionable speeds at night to find the next checkpoint.) Support cars are not allowed on the official route. If your support car is found on the route (we had a placard on the dash) the rider is disqualified. If the rider if off route and detected, the rider is penalized with extra time. The officials are funny about helmets but not about other things. Doug's riding that summer (to qualify) and in PBP 1991 remains very inspirational. Diane's support of Doug (night and day...as the qualifying rides in the U.S. usually start at 4AM and can last 2 days) throughout that summer is even more inspirational. Doug changed his diet, got more sleep, went out less and generally became a training machine. It paid off, too.

At most of the checkpoints, there was a coffee stand. They were pouring intensely hot and dark roasted French Roast Coffee into bowls. That was a meal in itself. There were large bowls of sugar to ladle into the coffee, too. I'd like to taste that coffee again while wearing the kit of a competitor.

ISOIA,

Greg

Big Wheels Keep On Turnin'

2010-01-19T20:32:00.003-05:00

This year, I've signed up for six races plus two events. One of these events has a very cool name: the Montreal Double Double. We do two double centuries (that's 200 miles before nap time) separated by a day in Montreal. Informed sources tell me I need to rest with my legs up and schedule a massage for that off day. These same sources tell me that if the wind is at our backs, we'll be fine in Montreal. If the wind is in our faces, I might want to book an extra long massage and cut back on the pale ales that night. It's too far to ponder in greater detail at this point.

I've almost never been competitive in sports. Some would say MORE than sports, but, hey, I'm trying to be KIND to myself. I've raced in a few triathlons, but that was in the early 80's. That led to getting married, and, well, enough said about the 80's. I've run in road races, but that was also years back. Cycling races are more challenging due to the equipment, the ability to REALLY hurt yourself and the other riders (although I don't think about this on the bike it seems), and the overall preparation. At least I think so. They're almost always long distance, too.

I've tried to race and ride at this level off and on for years. Talk Talk Talk - yes, that was my middle name. This month, I got serious about this and hired a cycling coach. A very scientific cycling coach who has already spun my head around a few times. My workouts are sane and tough. They're going to get a lot tougher, and we'll see if I can hack it. I rode 5 workouts for 6 hours total last week, all indoors on my Kurt Kinetic Rock and Roll Trainer. At least my indoor trainer is cool. That green color really wakes you up at 4:30 in the morning. Coffee not required. This week has more riding, and the riding time will increase week to week for a while. I also started a Metabolic Typing Program recently. I'll share more about that in the future.

Gotta get some sleep soon. Up early every day now: Shoulder Rehab Exercises (what fun would all this be if I was 100% healthy!?), an hour recovery ride and then off to work for some cube time.

ISOIA,

Greg

Joe Rollino, R.I.P.

2010-01-13T12:55:00.002-05:00

Read Joe's story and I dare you not to feel better. Sure, he died in a miserable way, but it sounds like he lived life full bore.

ISOIA,

Greg

Art Clokey, The Creator of Gumby, R.I.P.

2010-01-11T05:49:00.003-05:00

Art Clokey passed away on Friday of last week. Art was an animator who created the popular Gumby character and kept working on related themes throughout his life. If you don't know Gumby, this proves you're not watching Saturday Night Live reruns and classic cartoons. You still have time!

Gumby, Pokey, and Davey and Goliath are foundational figures in animation and American mores (IMHO.)

ISOIA,

Greg

Meat To The Beat

2010-01-10T08:25:00.002-05:00

This New York Times article extols the virtues of a meat-centric diet. With the popularity of Crossfit and like workouts (and lifestyles), this is a resurgence of the old school way of eating with a modern interpretation. I think.

ISOIA,

Greg

Wall-painted Animation

2010-01-04T19:44:00.006-05:00

Check out this wall-painted animation video from BLU. It's seven minutes long and well worth watching to completion.

ISOIA,

Greg

Bono's Top 10 List for the Next Decade

2010-01-03T14:18:00.002-05:00

In his spare time, Bono is a contributing columnist for The New York Times. How he manages his life AND his accessories...this man has definitely got a plan!

In this article, Bono tell us what he thinks should happen in the next decade to enhance life on Earth. I have to agree with him, and let's face it: If there's a more exciting rock band than U2 touring the Earth these days, they must be in another dimension.

ISOIA,

Greg

Micronutrients

2010-01-03T04:45:00.003-05:00

Nicholas Kristoff's recent New York Times op-ed column sheds light the effect micronutrients have on our development. Reading food labels and planning your meals can have a much more lasting effect that one might think.

ISOIA,

Greg

2009

2010-01-02T19:52:00.011-05:00

Now that we're into 2010, I can list some of the events 2009 that left their mark.

December: Meat Don't Fail Me Now
I started eating red meat for the first time since Sophomore year in college. I'd been talking about it all year, but when I was sick twice in a month (and so sick I stayed in bed for 2 days each time) I knew I had to make some changes. I connected with a metabolic typing professional (Aubrey Thompson), and this has already proven to be a great change in my life.

October: West Coast Trip
- Pat Fish and her apprentice Colin in Santa Barbara designed a great memorial tattoo for me. I'm stunned every time I look at it. I was able to show this to Judy, Brian and Lisa the next day in Long Beach.
- Stone Brewing Company in San Diego reminded me of what it's like to be in a company that everyone seems to be happy to be a part of.
- Laguna Beach reminded me of how much I enjoy the California coast. I remember the first time I got my feet in it (1978, San Francisco) and it never ceases to thrill me.
- My Garmin Nuvi got me around (and in some cases, around and around) like I was a local. I programmed it with a British lexicon, so it's entertaining, too!
- I got to hang out with Jim Marsden, his wife Nancy and their super cool son Alex in Manhattan Beach.

August: Cahoon Hollow Beach Day
Some of the ski gang were able to get together for a day on my favorite beach. Steve introduced me to this beach after Freshman year (and what parties we had.) I continue to go back whenever I can. I have a small container of Cahoon Hollow Beach Sand here on my desk. I try to get there at least once a summer. This year, I need to get to at least one show at The Beachcomber, too! I just ordered my 2010 pass.

July: Rock of Ages
This was a special day. Rock of Ages killed me with singing, dancing and story telling. It was the music highlight of the year for me. I plan to see it again in NYC sometime in the next 3 months.

June: Natalie Polaski's Death
Elaine's mother Natalie passed away suddenly in June. Tragic isn't close. Natalie was what Jerry Lee Lewis was singing about when he got to "... great balls of fire!" Elaine and her mother were very close, and Natalie always had a good word for Elaine's friends. We all miss her.

February: Body Body
In addition to being the name of a great men's clothing store in Provincetown, I started working with Ruth Soper on Structural Energetic Therapy and deep tissue massage. Ruth's work made a major difference in my training this past year and in every day life, too.

ISOIA,

Greg

ViC Chesnut, R.I.P.

2009-12-27T06:22:00.004-05:00

Vic Chestnut died on Christmas Day after taking an overdose of muscle relaxing drugs a week earlier. He spent his last week in a coma. He was only 45 years old.

You probably haven't heard of him, but back in the 90's his music received a lot of attention. I didn't know he was still performing and touring nationally and internationally. He toured recently behind an album he made with Guy Picciotto of Fugzai. Vic's self-penned Bio is definitely worth reading slowly.

Vic had a lot of fans in music stardom. He ended up in a wheelchair as a result of a drunk driving accident where he was the drunk driver. He's been candid about that, and if that's not a reason to cut back on drinking, I don't know what is.

I'm breaking out some of his music to listen to this morning.

Cheers,

Greg

Brittany Murphy, R.I.P.

2009-12-21T07:18:00.002-05:00

Brittany Murphy passed away yesterday at the age of 32. She brought a lot of realism to portrayals of pain in mild and not so mild forms. I always admired her for that work.

She was pretty quirky, as young women in Hollywood are usually described, but I had no clue about her life outside the movies she made. Another reason to live one's life like it had a purpose.

Cheers,

Greg

Tom Petty

2009-12-20T06:18:00.002-05:00

Tom Petty recently released The Live Anthology. This is a 4-CD set for less then $20. Tom Petty, Mike Campbell and Ryan Ulyate selected the tracks for this release, and it's as close to a live performance as you'll get unless you go to a few dozen shows to hear all this music.

When they assembled this release, they decided not to play with the tracks (at all.) What you hear is what these audiences heard over the 4 decades that The Heartbreakers have been playing out. There a lots of stories about the songs told as intros, as you would experience in a live show, too.

Drop what you're doing and get this, now.

Cheers,

Greg

Lila Downs

2009-12-20T06:11:00.002-05:00

Lila Downs has launched a new website. Check it out. If you're fortunate to live within 100 miles of one of her 2010 performances, buy your tickets ASAP and prepare for a memorable night.

Her dynamic website is an indication of the type of show you're going to experience. It's truly LIVE (versus a staged performance.) You won't regret it.

Cheers,

Greg

Food for The Soul

2009-12-19T14:19:00.001-05:00

This New York Times Article yet again demonstrates the power of music for both the musician and the listener.

Cheers,

Greg

Majjor Taylor Hill Climb, Redux

2009-12-18T07:24:00.006-05:00

Bob Sullivan reminded me of this event yesterday. THEN I remembered that I purchased 2 photos recently. Here's a look at me climbing George Street:

I looked down a lot in the beginning. I slipped a gear once, and I think this is when it happened. It was a hot day (jersey open...) and even though it's a narrow street, the sun was hitting us, too.

Yes, I wear that rear view mirror on my cycling glasses every where I ride. When you get to the top of the street, you need to ride with traffic back to the start. No, wait. I first hung over my handlebars for ... not sure how long, and THEN I rode/coasted/drafted a few cars back to the start.

Next year:
1. I won't carry anything extra (seat bag, water bottle, etc.)
2. I will have practiced climbing steep hills much more often. Really, it's more fun than it looks. You get tp freewheel down some pretty steep descents to cool off!
3. I will also sit down before the race. I got there 2 hours beforehand and rode for an hour to warm up. I'll be a little smarter about it in 2010. If that's possible.

The Seven Hills Wheelmen sponsor this event. They're a fun bunch. Look at what they do on a Sunday morning!

Cheers,

Greg

Gene Barry, R.I.P.

2009-12-11T06:22:00.004-05:00

When I think about it, many of my memorable TV and movie experiences included Gene Barry. The Name of the Game, Bat Masterson and War of The Worlds are only a few of them. I always thought Gene brought a sense of intelligence to the characters he portrayed, whether he was solving crimes, dealing 1-on-1 with bad guys, or saving The Earth.

Cheers,

Greg

Agile and Technical Writing

2009-12-08T05:39:00.001-05:00

This looks like a good resource for technical writers working on Agile projects.

Cheers,

Greg

Distributed Agile

2009-12-03T19:27:00.002-05:00

I found this StickyMinds article to be very insightful and useful, too.

Cheers,

Greg

Mister Magic, R. I. P.

2009-10-03T10:12:00.003-04:00

Mister Magic expired this week. The cause of his death is reported to be a heart attack. Magic was an early proponent of Hip-Hop. He brought the music to people through radio (Brooklyn) and then his touring throughout the country.

Last night, I listened to a late night WMBR show dedicated to his memory (and his music.) The DJ reminded us that when MTV first showed up on cable, that channel featured music videos all day and all night, including Hip-Hop videos. These videos look pretty simple compared to today's productions, but they had the spirit locked in and on display, too.

Cheers,

Greg

Trevor Rhone, R.I.P.

2009-09-21T06:28:00.002-04:00

Trevor Rhone was a principal writer of The Harder They Come, although his name never traveled far from home. Jimmy Cliff, his story in the movie, and Reggae music are the popular stars in this movie. I remember watching this movie at The Orson Welles Cinema shortly after it opened. I'm breaking out the soundtrack to listen to, today.

Cheers,

Greg

Mary Travers, R.I.P.

2009-09-17T06:01:00.002-04:00

Mary Travers was really the icon in Peter, Paul and Mary. Reading her obituary, I learned more about how the trio formed than I would have ever guessed. That was all an Albert Grossman scheme!? Amazing.

I can still remember my sisters and I singing "If I Had A Hammer" as my (Republican) parents drove us all to Washington, D.C. for the Fourth of July fireworks one year.

Cheers,

Greg

Patrick Swayze, R.I.P.

2009-09-15T06:21:00.003-04:00

There's a lot being written about Patrick Swayze this week. His fight with pancreatic cancer caught my attention due to Mac and Steve's experiences. I always liked his portrayal of people who overcame circumstances (which probably attested to his outliving his doctor's predictions.) One of his movies, Next of Kin is now 20 years old. It's one of my favorites, and the cast alone makes this movie worth watching.

Tough ending to a vibrant life.

Cheers,

Greg

Dick Berg, R.I.P.

2009-09-09T06:14:00.004-04:00

Dick Berg passed away last week. He was responsible for bring many epic productions to both the large and small screens. Take 5 minutes and read his obituary. Look at the people he brought into the industry and the works be brought to the public. Amazing.

Cheers,

Greg

How open is an open society?

2009-09-09T05:57:00.004-04:00

Today's New York Times includes a detailed article on social networking in the military. It's a raging debate with many blogging and tweeting regardless of norms and regulations. Depending on who you listen to and report to (it appears), you can be free and clear to tweet and blog or subject to discipline.

I don't think this debate is going to end anytime soon.

Cheers,

Greg

Ski Gang Get Together

2009-09-07T13:27:00.010-04:00

Great time Sunday night at Elaine's. Who would have thought that sitting around a fire in the dim light for hours after dark would be so much fun!? Steve The Wonder Dog was a revelation. Those desserts were amazing. All the food was killer. We don't do this enough...so let's do it again!

The next event is Saturday night, September 26th at Smoken Joe's BBQ in Brighton. Shirley Lewis and band will be performing at 8:30. The last time I was there to see Shirley, (a) She was backed by a killer trio, and (b) She paid tribute to the recently deceased Michael Jackson by performing Beat It (including some feisty Moon Walking and The Robot, to name only two of the moves I could decipher.) Food at Smoken Joe's is fresh and tasty. They have a well stocked selection of micro brew beer, too. It's best to arrive no later than 7:00 to ensure a good table (or a table at all. It's Saturday night!) There's a parking lot behind Joe's. On street parking, too.

Check out my friend Amanda Beals' blog, too! Amanda is re-inventing herself, and it's not easy (as I discovered.) Sign up to follow Amanda's daily work. She's an inspiration for anyone who's wanted to make a positive change in their lives. No namby pamby new age clutter here - real world feedback from a real person.

Cheers,

Greg

Steve Rotty @ 58

2009-09-02T04:54:00.020-04:00

Steve would have been 58 on Tuesday, September 1st. He made it to 56 plus change. I'm still pissed off about his early, sudden and tough death from pancreatic cancer.

Here we are almost exactly 20 years ago in August of 1989. We met over a blackjack game in the student lounge, freshman year. My game. Steve sat down and asked to deal, so I gave him the cards. He promptly misdealt 3 times in a row (and paid us all off, quarters, we're talking) and I took the cards back. He explained that he just wanted to meet some of the kids in his section. (Of course, these kids only wanted to hang out, smoke cigarettes and play cards. Sorry, Steve.)

We became great friends, and I wish I could remember more of the details of how we developed our friendship. Maybe we were both feeling kind of alone in the large metropolis that was Northeastern University and wanted to fit in. Likely that. I know we got down to where did you go to high school (we went to rival schools) and what did you drive pretty quickly. Steve had wheels, and he knew how to plan in detail, even then. He planned these epic beach parties at Cahoon Hollow Beach the summer of freshman year (where the Beachcomber resides now.)

Steve went off to Wentworth after freshman year. We used to meet up and cruise around Boston with Charlie Valentine and Gary Flood, friends Steve made at Wentworth. Steve made friends everywhere he went. We had a lot of fun in cars, and we cruised a lot, day and night.

Steve and I were able to spend a week together in September of 2001 when we met in Salt Lake City and toured through Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole, up to Butte Montana and the length of Idaho, returning to Salt Lake City. (I still wear a sweatshirt from that trip, and I put my coffee cup on a ceramic Yellowstone coaster every day.) Here's a picture of us at a landmark. I think Steve stopped for every landmark his entire life; wanting to experience them all. He was right. We do need to experience them all, and he taught me that. He also taught me a lot about friendship, too.

Out politics differed, and I remember him asking me if I really wanted to marry Linda. When I said yes, he supported me 100%, but he did have his doubts, especially since we had decided to get married pretty quickly. He was right of course. When we parted in Salt Lake City Airport, I remember he told me "You're a good man." Few have said anything to me that mattered more, ever. That year, he sent me a card for my birthday in addition to calling. I still have it here: It's a drawing of a suspension bridge on the cover, and inside on the left is printed: "If your friends jump off the bridge first, it will help cushion your landing." On the right is printed: "You can never have too big a party. Happy Birthday" Under that Steve wrote "To A Great Friend!" and "-Steve" It's one of my few valued keepsakes.

I used to quote Jackson Browne about death: "I don't know what happens when people die. Can't seem to grasp it as hard as I try." I don't try to be that witty anymore. I've had to try to grasp Steve's death, but I can't claim to be successful. Every night when I come out of the gym, I look for the Moon or some stars and wonder what sort of celestial happenings he's into in the afterlife. Anyone looking at me would see me look up for a moment and then shake my head, bummed that Steve isn't getting the same view as me. Steve would always alert family, friend and co-workers to meteor showers, comets and other celestial coolness.

I'm headed West in October to visit Judy and Lisa, Steve's wife and daughter, and to get a memorial tattoo for Steve, too. It will be a celestial design, one of Pat Fish's designs. Right now, we're looking at her Halley's Comet and Supernova designs. We may combine them into one design. I'm looking forward to all that and more on that trip.

Cheers,

Greg

Chris Connor, R.I.P.

2009-09-01T07:36:00.005-04:00

You probably don't know Chris's music. She wasn't one of the jazz singers movies are made about (or for), but her voice was memorable. Chris passed away Saturday. Another death from cancer.

You can read more about her but you should really listen to her. I'm going to listen to her music today. You should, too. I have it on now.

Cheers,

Greg

Crossfit New England Summer Throwdown, Part 3

2009-08-30T16:42:00.006-04:00

The results are in. In my division, I was SECOND in Round 1! I had no clue of that. Round 2 I sucked a little more and was pretty tired swinging my kettlebell. I should have (and could have) rested more between rounds. Lesson learned.

Pup Results: Double-click on the image below:

Damn happy to have completed both rounds within the time limits.

MAJOR PROPS to Bri Houghton at Forever Fit in Watertown, Mass. for getting me ready for this competition. Dan Crawley, too, for his Monday night snatch workout at Forever Fit last week.

Cheers,

Greg

Crossfit New England Summer Throwdown, Part 2

2009-08-29T18:01:00.003-04:00

What a great time. I completed each round within the allotted time: Round 1 was around 9min 50secs (official times not posted yet.) Round 2 was close to 7 mins. In Round 1, the run was replaced with 21 burpees. No one likes burpees I learned. Damn both sides of my ass were kicked. I saw MANY people who were physically superior get crushed a little or a lot, too. All relative I'm seeing. Amazing support from people came my way during and after rounds. My judge gave me some great pointers, too. In round 2, I did scaled the pull-ups (jumping pull-ups) and even then I had to really PUSH to get them all done.

Everything was on schedule. Ben was adamant about that, and he stuck to it all day. The beer rolled into the box on schedule, too but at the very end of the day of course! There were only 3 male pups, and even though I finished behind the 2 other Pups I officially qualified for third and was very surprised to receive a trophy.
Ben and Heather throw a great throwdown. Many (maybe all) of their trainers were competing or judging. My "counter" for Round 1 was Gene, a Crossfit NE member. He wasn’t competing, only around to help if needed. I was the only pup who stayed around for the awards. I registered for this event A LONG time ago, so I wasn't there for a trophy.

People were surprised to hear that I didn't come from a Crossfit Box. I said that Forever Fit has an affiliate license and is committed to it. People were also surprised that there wasn't a contingent from Crossfit Newton (although I couldn’t tell if they had people entered or not.) It would have been interesting to see where competitors trained in addition to their names.

I learned a lot. I have to say the judging on box jumps appears to be all over the place. I did them like I did them last week (when Bri ran me through Round 2), but I was amongst the few who stood up on the box. Not complaining - only that I have more ways to shave time and to be more agile. I'm still glad I did them the way I did them though. I saw more than a few people rest a loaded bar behind their necks either to change grips or to take a break (and not put the bar down on the floor.) (I didn’t put the bar down in Round 1 until I got to burpees. More good advice from Bri!) That was supposed to be a No No. No bar behind the neck. At least I thought so. I asked my judge about it, and he told me that you can't raise the bar from behind your neck to complete a counted lift. That made sense, but I also thought a bar behind your neck was a safety issue (small box, lots of people.) More old school knowledge on my part I think. I also saw people doing underhand and alternate hand pull-ups, which surprised me. I could have done them quicker with an under grip. Another lesson learned.

They seemed to have a lot of light beer. What's with that!? Someone's 3-year old (or so) daughter did a pull-up from her mother's arms after the awards and she got a lot of applause and hoots. Then she did another one! It's a very tight group of people who are REALLY committed to fitness and to seeing how hard they can work under a different conditions.

All and all, a wicked great time. You know, that trophy guy LOOKS a little like me!

Cheers,

Greg

Crossfit New England Summer Throwdown

2009-08-28T06:25:00.005-04:00

Takes place Saturday, August 29th at Crossfit New England

Workout 1 - The Lot

Workout 2 - Chowdah

I need to review these videos and practice at home today and tonight. More details on the event. I'm doing these lifts for the first time in most cases (after learning them this week, thanks to Bri and Dan!)

This is outside all comfort zones...just what I need at the end of the summer!

Inspiration

Cheers,

Greg

Ellie Greenwich, R.I.P.

2009-08-27T06:47:00.002-04:00

Too few people knew Ellie's name, but when you look at her songwriting credits, you can see that she shaped a generation+ of performers and listeners. She was interviewed recently and captured a little current attention, but nothing like what she was due.

Cheers,

Greg

Ted Kennedy, R.I.P.

2009-08-27T06:27:00.006-04:00

It's a little surprising to me that Ted's passing received so much 24 x 7 attention. It could be a local effect, but the national media seem pretty caught up, too. He seemed to be scorned almost as much as he was respected. He always seemed to be working on behalf of the individual and the person(s) in need, so I always held him in the highest regard.

The incident at Chappaquiddick back in 1969 is always thrown in his face (in the media, not in person), and Mary Jo Kopechne's death is tragic even now almost 40 years later to the day. (I knew one of the girls at the party that night from childhood. She lived up the street from us, and she was our baby sitter when we were kids. Nice girl, nice family.) I'd seen much worse parties, and I expect he was haunted by this for the rest of his life, too.

Years ago, when I led an Amnesty International Adoption Group, Ted spoke up at a meeting with the Soviet General Secretary and asked for a certain prisoner of conscience (on whose behalf we were working) to be released. He was successful, and three weeks later both were standing around at a small party in Brookline to thank everyone.

Ted worked at all levels on behalf of people. I imagine his parents (primarily his mother) instilled this in him, in addition to losing his brothers unnaturally and more I expect. He'll be missed everywhere.

Cheers,

Greg

Departing New York Times Restaurant Critic Shares Lists and Likes

2009-08-26T07:19:00.004-04:00

I'll need this the next time I plan a trip to NYC. Thank you Frank Bruni!

Cheers,

Greg

Larry Knechtel, R.I.P.

2009-08-25T06:16:00.005-04:00

If you read the liner notes for your favorite CDs (and shame on you if you don't!) you're likely to have seen Larry Knechtel's name more than once. Larry died on August 20th at the age of 69. His cause of death is listed as a heart attack in The New York Times but as unknown on his personal web site. Regardless of what caused his death, Larry was a prolific musician and producer and one of the nicest people in the music scene over the past 40 years. Yes, 40 years.

Larry produced and/or played on many epic musical productions. To name only a few: The Dixie Chicks' Taking The Long Way Home, Simon and Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water, and The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds. He also played bass for Elvis in the Elvis' "Comeback" TV Special. (You don't pick Elvis. Elvis picks you.) He also played with Bread during their breakthrough years. That's a fraction of his work.

In reading Larry's detailed biography, I see that he also he worked with Mike Post, Mr. TV Show Soundtrack. I didn't know that. (Take a look at the shows Mike produced music for...whew.) Larry touched a lot of people from behind the scenes or from behind an instrument or soundboard.

So break out your favorite Larry work today and give it a new listen. I just started playing Taking The Long Way Home. The Chicks are on tour right now. I forgot how much I enjoyed their music: lyrics, production and sound. (Thanks go to Diane for getting me to listen to them in earnest.)

Cheers,

Greg

Suzy Bogguss at The Center for Arts in Natick

2009-08-23T06:37:00.004-04:00

I saw Suzy Bogguss last night at The Center for Arts in Natick, Mass. Suzy is touring with 2 sideman: One on piano and accordion, and one bass (both electric and upright.) The three of them throw a sound worthy of a 6-piece band. Suzy's voice is at least as full as it sounds on her recordings. She played 2 sets with a brief intermission. She covered her major hits, country classics, swing and jazz and some original folk songs, too. See her if you can!

Suzy told a few stories during the show. She had spent a month earlier this summer playing and touring out of an RV through the Southwest. Her husband and son plus a friend of her son's were packed into the RV, too. They made an episodic video collection of their experiences.

TCAN is a small performance room booking some great talent. They also offer many programs for children. I signed up as a member after this show.

Cheers,

Greg

Local Woman Swims English Channel

2009-08-19T09:48:00.003-04:00

Sure, this could be a spoof headline, but it's not. Elaine Kornbau Howley successfuly swam The Channel on August 3rd. Wild.

Cheers,

Greg

Breast Cancer Surgery Recovery and Weight Training

2009-08-18T06:06:00.005-04:00

This New York Times article reveals the positive outcomes of adopting weight training when recovering from breast cancer surgery. This study was performed at the U. Penn School of Medicine.

Cheers,

Greg

Jim Dickinson, R.I.P.

2009-08-18T05:51:00.003-04:00

Jim Dickinson played piano and inspired many popular hits over several decades. His is not a well known name, but he played with Aretha, Keith and Mick and many more (better known names.) He's best known today for his son's participation in The North Mississippi Allstars. Jim played on and produced many of their songs and toured with them, too.

Cheers,

Greg

Riccardo Cassin, R.I.P.

2009-08-16T06:40:00.004-04:00

Riccardo Cassin was an innovative and adventurous alpine climber. He led a life filled with challenges that he overcame (and in some cases, survived.) I've read about him in a few mountaineering books over the years. He lived to 100 years of age doing what he loved to do.

Cheers,

Greg

The Ballad of G.I. Joe

2009-08-15T03:52:00.003-04:00

Henry Rollins posted this spoof video on his MySpace blog this week: The Ballad of G.I. Joe

George Street Hill Climb and Major Taylor Story

2009-08-15T03:07:00.002-04:00

The Boston Globe produced a short video covering this year's climb including interviews with Major Taylor's decedents.

Cycling Psycho

2009-08-14T07:41:00.001-04:00

This guy exists and there's far more than one of him, too.

Les Paul, R.I.P.

2009-08-14T07:22:00.003-04:00

Les Paul died yesterday. He hasn't been making headlines for years. He quietly played Monday nights at Iridium, where I was fortunate to see him in 1999. He continued to record with other artists, Mark Knopfler in particular. You can read Iridium's tribute to Les here. Check out Les' web site for a snapshot of his life in music, too.

Cheers,

Greg

Andy Kessler, R.I.P.

2009-08-13T05:39:00.003-04:00

Andy Kessler led the East Coast skateboarding movement in New York City. Most people don't think of skateboarding as being an East Coast sport, but there have always been plenty doing it here and doing it well. Andy also helped others get started in the sport. Stung by a bee while surfing..."Do it now."

Cheers,

Greg

On-line and Asleep

2009-08-11T06:55:00.004-04:00

This report on the effective use of on-line aids to address insomnia is very interesting AND encouraging. No, I don't experience insomnia, but I'm interested in this application of on-line resources. I'm working on a related idea.

Cheers,

Greg

John Hughes, R.I.P.

2009-08-07T04:34:00.004-04:00

If he had only made one of his epic teen movies, he's still be a legend. John Hughes suffered a heart attach while on a morning walk! A walk! I don't know if had a heart condition, was in poor condition or was struck by a particle beam weapon being tested on the streets of Manhattan. Get some exercise folks (myself included.)

Cheers,

Greg

Fitness In The News

2009-07-30T06:20:00.001-04:00

New forms of fitness classes are always popping up. New York City has its share!

Cheers,

Greg

George Street Hill Climb

2009-07-26T17:57:00.010-04:00

The Ride: I tore it up pretty well, even with some slick spots. 43.28 seconds. I was surprised I was that quick. I had no clue until I saw my time after the event was over. Age group winners (50-59) were close to 30 seconds. Ouch! I was (a) trying to go straight up, (b) use a gear I knew I could push all the way, and (c) be conscious of the wet spots higher on the hill that hadn't had a chance to dry out. I'm VERY happy with this time. I learned enough to work on dropping it next year. Next year, I plan to use a bigger gear. I'll be ready. You can see all of the results here.

The Deal: I arrived at 8am. It was drizzling a bit. I met the co-organizer, Lynne Tolman, and she told me more about how the day would run. She rides it each year, too. I registered so early in the year that I was #5. When I was done, I put my bike back on the car, changed into sandals and rooted others on from the base (where I could watch my bike, too!)

The Preview: Riding around town before the race, I ran into my friend Gina, her boyfriend Giuseppe and his son Mario. They were driving to watch the morning's festivities. It turns out Giuseppe is a member of the sponsoring club (Seven Hills Wheelmen) and a regular on their Wednesday night rides. I hadn't seen Gina in a year. They positioned themselves half way up George Street after we chatted at the base. Before I rode, Giuseppe came down to warn me about the wetness on the right side on the top 1/3 section. Nice guy! I had planned to go up the right side the whole way...so this helped. (He also got a great shot of me coming head-on that Gina will send me. Blog material!)

The Start: Someone holds you under the saddle at the base of the hill. There's 2-inch red tape delimiting the start line. You tell them when you're ready. They announce your name, home town and how many times you've done this race. They count down from 3 and the air horn means PEDAL! I took off pretty well and made very good time. I did move left to avoid the slick spots (several people fell later...) and that was also when I hit the steepest pitch. I slipped my chain a few times at that point (penalty for not using a bigger gear) but made it to the top 100% breathless. I couldn't have done more. I was hung over my handlebars as I cruised to the right to find a street to return to my car across from the start line. Gina told me that finishing times were announced at the top, but I have no recollection of hearing anything past the point when Gina, Giuseppe and Mario rooted me on.

The End: I rode pretty much straight up from the saddle and didn't rock a lot. MISTAKE. That's better for lonnnnnng climbs. The quickest times were done by people using their upper bodies, too. Lesson for next year. I'll work on that and get out there a few times before next July, too. I wanted to complete the ride and not wipe out near the top (as several did.) I also saw a rider break his chain when he started, get a new chain, and then win the gold for his age group!

Local Coverage

ISOIA,

Greg

Ring My Kettlebell!

2009-07-25T16:30:00.005-04:00

A little before 9AM today, I was at Dan Crawley's Alpha Fitness where I participated in this morning's kettlebell class led by Missy. Missy led a class of two (good weather kept numbers low today) through a great workout. We worked all parts of our bodies, standing, seated and prone, using kettlebells to focus our effort and the impact on our bodies. If you're in Rhode Island or planning to visit sometime soon, do yourself a favor and call ahead to confirm a class and Get Alpha Fit! Plan to get hot and sweaty (yes, DURING class) and to have a great time, too!

In addition to kettlebells, Dan is leading CrossFit Rhody at the same location in East Greenwich. If you're new to CrossFit, you'd be well advised to join Dan at this CrossFit affiliate to get off to the right start.

We're planning to put up a CrossFit Box at Forever Fit in Watertown, Mass., too. Bri will lead that program. Bri was at alpha Fitness this morning for a CrossFit instructor class. She makes it all look effortless.

Cheers,

Greg

Fish Is The Word

2009-07-22T05:46:00.001-04:00

Eat more fish if you want to keep your brain in shape.

Cheers,

Greg

Rock Of Ages

2009-07-19T19:13:00.002-04:00

I saw Rock of Ages Saturday in New York City. I was blown away with the production, the story telling, the dancing, the singing and the overall WHOA factor of this Broadway production. I was expecting much less story telling (and emoting) and was I ever pleasantly surprised. I'd see this show once a month if I could.

I used the LimoLiner for traveling on Saturday, and I highly recommend this too. Small, plush, clean and stocked with food and drink (alcohol available in the evening), even the coffee is great.

Cheers,

Greg

Tom Wilkes, R.I.P.

2009-07-19T19:11:00.001-04:00

You probably don't know his name, but you're likely to recognize his album art. Tom Wilkes developed some of the classic album covers for many of the most memorable albums.

CrossFit Games 2009

2009-07-10T21:43:00.001-04:00

Dignity and Reverance

2009-07-09T06:09:00.001-04:00

How good can you feel today?

Cheers,

Greg

George Street By Early Morning Light

2009-07-06T20:17:00.025-04:00

On Saturday morning, early morning, I drove out to Worcester to check out George Street for myself. I got there just before 7am. Nice weather. Dry roads. No wind. Here's a look from the bottom:
Can you see the handrail on the right? Let me show you:
Really now. How many streets do you see with handrails!? There's a handrail on the left side, too:
I looked for a gondola or a tow line. It's steep, and it rises in the last third as you approach the top. It's a gnarly road:
I warmed up for a while. I didn't warm up for a long enough period, though. A mistake I plan not to repeat.

I rode George Street 3 times after warming up for 5 miles. (Now I can say it: I should have ridden 15 miles before attempting George Street. Stupid User.) First time up, I pulled over to the side street conveniently located two-thirds of the way up and just before the steepest section. In this view from the top of George Street, you can see this street on the right:
(You didn't think I was going to WALK up there did you!?) I paused and then knocked off the remaining piece. Steep. Here's what I rode to the top from this point (looking down George Street:)
These are the remaining pieces to the top:
The Stop sign indicates you've reached the top:
This is a pimple compared to the long and steep hills in this area, not to mention those in Western Mass and outside New England. I'm still packing at least 10=15 lbs of F.A.T. that I have to lug up every foot of this hill. I'm happy with my results, as I have LOTS of room for improvement. That's what it's all about - working to improve and to enjoy the experience. (Did I mention that it was a holiday, July 4th, so the meter was free. I enjoyed THAT experience!)

I rode it twice more. On the second attempt, I made it up without stopping. On the third attempt, I stopped at the two-thirds point and plotted my strategy: Don't Fall. Don't Quit. Don't Use Your Real Name. Simple yet effective. I rode to the top for my third attempt and called it quits. I had some good friends and good times ahead of me in Fitchburg, and I still wasn't warmed up enough.

What did I learn?

Warm up for at least 15 miles before attempting anything like this again (including this, again)
Ride up the right side of the street when back for the competition. (It felt faster, and the road surface was better. There's a sewer after the half way point you have to avoid, but I know where it is now.)
Ride in my best Marco Pantani style! Marco (R.I.P.) stands up, grabbing the bottom of the drops and uses his legs to propel his bike up mountain after mountain.
If I get pissed off, don't do what Cipo did!
Enjoy myself, too!

Cheers,

Greg

Beginner's Yoga

2009-07-03T19:06:00.004-04:00

I worked through my first Yoga Class today at Om City Yoga in Cambridge. Dee (the owner) taught a class of 34 of us. She ran a special for today: $5 for the class plus a free pass for another class anytime within the next 8 weeks.

This was a stretch for me which is what I wanted. I struggled a bit for everything, which is A-OK for me. When it came to strength in the hips, that I had. When it came to flexibility and movement, which was most of the class, I was struggling a little (or more.) Perfect. Dee was very encouraging and reminded us that there is no competition in Yoga. (Is that why there were almost no men!?) I'm very happy I did this.

Cheers,

Greg

DVD News Source: VideoETA

2009-07-03T06:57:00.003-04:00

I've been subscribing to the VideoETA email newsletter for a long time. I find something in each issue, if only to laugh along with the editor. If you're a DVD consumer (in any form, including online downloads and viewing) this is a valuable resource. Their website rocks, too.

You can learn DVD release dates, who's working with who to produce what movie, what happened to a series that was supposed to come out on DVD and much more.

Cheers,

Greg