Noir Memoirs

Bald To The Walls

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 06:30:46 GMT

I’ll start out by Quoting one of my favorite movies, Friday, There is the perfect scene when Smokey (Chris Tucker) confronts Debie after being set up on a date with Rina.
And Rina turned out to be bald headed… yeah. So here we go.

So, As you all know. I am the king of bad dates. While id much rather be the King Of Wishful Thinking. I’ll take this title with pride since its all I can get for now.

I try my best not to break down and offend people when a bad date a rises. Much like an episode of Dragnet, “Only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.” But sometimes things go a bit too far, And I’m compelled to say what’s on my mind and get the story out. So, again to reference Dragnet, “Just the facts, ma'am”

A few nights ago I was re acquainted with an old fling. Things did not work out well for us, as this one was having issues with her EX, and frankly, I don’t like to compete. Plus, she had A LOT of drama in her life at the time. Fast forward 2 years later after a marriage and divorce, and bingo, she finds me again.

Now, I should have been cautious, knowing that she and I did not get along too well in the past. What struck me odd is she almost instantly began insinuating and trying to hook me up with a friend of hers. So, again, in retrospect, if I did not like her too well, why would I consider being set up with her friend? Hind sight is 20/20, so they say.

However I was optimistic. The old fling suggested that I meet her friend because, I quote,
“Should would be all over you."
After giving it some thought, I gave the EX fling permission to give her my number. The next day she calls me, we chat for a bit, and she proceeds to invite me to her birthday bash taking place the following evening.

Said night comes around and after some jockeying about where and when. I’m invited to a nice hotel suite in Mountain View, CA. Granted it was a Holiday Inn Express, but trust me, none of the smarts rubbed off on me.

Its 1:30 AM I enter the suite and the old fling greets me at the door. Inside are two other males, multiple bottles of wine and alcohol, snacks ect. And then the birthday girl whom I was being set up with, comes out the adjacent room…

As with 99% of most blind dates in America, it was BIG old mess. Ladies and gentlemen. She was bald. And when I say bald, I don’t mean the somewhat attractive shaved head bald. Or the sometimes sexy Sinéad O'Connor bald look. But the I’m a 30 year old woman with a fairly pretty face but the hair line and top of a 65 year old man. I kid you NOT! Much like the famed mullet in the Midwest, Business in the front, party in the back. This was more like, Cute on the side, geezer of the top!

I tried to keep my composure. I figured obviously she either has some sort of disease or is suffering from a condition. Coming down or judging her on that would be very low of me. So, I stuck around. I was curious and above all, I knew there was a story here, somewhere, before the night was over.

The night progressed, and the old fling was going out of her way to get me into an uncomfortable position and situation with the birthday girl. It was overly blatant and even if I had considered the act, the pressure was so insistent the idea had lost its luster and over all, I was just simply turned off.

After having a little along time with the birthday girl, I learned she had a rare form of OCD, Trichotillomania. After battling it for most of her adult life she decided to just accept it and… for lack of a better term, let her hair down. She explained that she use to ware hats and wigs, but just wanted to embrace herself for who she is, I found it commendable, but, at the same time it was slightly unsettling.

Now, mind you. Again I say, I’m not going to knock someone who has a condition that is beyond their control, and if that was the only issue there would be no need to write this entry. But wait, there’s more.

See, when I have bad dates, it usually comes down to the person and their actions towards me that make them bad. I’ll remind you it was her birthday, and the alcohol was flowing. This girl was an angry drunk! I’m not sure what she thought was going to happen, but whatever it was, she was pissed it was not taking place. She eventually got loud and somewhat belligerent. Screaming from time to time,
“Why is nothing happening?!” “It’s my birthday, and something should be happening!!”

There were talks of naughty sessions of truth or dare and other party games that all would eventually end up in people doing acts that I knew would become instantly regretful. So I opted out.

Next thing I knew she yanks off her shirt in front of me, the other guy who was there and the ex fling. I instantly could hear the wise words of Tone Lōc echo in my head,
“When she got undressed it was a big ole mess!”
I guess there was a little too much Funky Cold Medina going around.

It’s about 3:30 AM now. This chick is obviously horny, the ex fling is overly hyper, the other guy is all excited that he (thinks) is about to get some, and I just want to leave.

The rest of the night pretty much revolved around the birthday girl being passive aggressive and angry. And to be honest, had she had a brighter attitude I might have seen myself giving her a nice birthday present. Like I said, had her affliction of Trichotillomania been the only issue, it could have been a non-issue. But over all, she was a bitch! An angry drunk, and came off as desperate.

So, there, that’s my most recent dating failure. The moral of this story is…
But cautious of people who want to hook you up, and more so, don’t hook up with the friend of someone who you don’t like much in the first place.

~ Ryoga Vee

Paige Cecilia McVandal (1974 - 2006)

Sat, 25 Jul 2009 23:00:24 GMT

Paige McVandal (May 14, 1974 - October 16, 2006) died Monday, October 16th 2006 in San Francisco. She was 32 years old.

She graduated from The York School in Monterey. After completing her BA degree in psychological services at the University of San Francisco, she continued her studies at Notre Dame de Namur in Belmont. There she achieved a master's degree in counseling psychology with emphasis on marital and family therapy, as well as, a certificate in chemical dependency.

She was awarded for her thesis: Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Proceeding with an internship as counselor for the clinically dependent population at the Haight Ashbury Free Clinic, she continued to work with the most indigent of San Francisco's people in need. Her ashes will be scattered to the winds along the southern coast of Monterey County, a place she truly cherished.

To Defend An Icon

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 04:16:35 GMT

I’ve lost a lot of friends this week over the death of Michael Jackson. It’s a hot button issue, almost just as deep as debating politics. So, I wanted to take a moment and run through some of the most contested aspects of Michael Jackson’s troubles, his child molestation accusations.

The first incident.

In 1993, Michael Jackson was accused of abusing the child of Evan Chandler. Jackson had befriending the child in early 1992. Jackson and the chandler family were very close having been seen out shopping and attending local events.

Evan Chandler was an aspiring writer. And was trying to get one of his scripts off the ground and formed into a movie. He approached Michael Jackson with his ideas in hope of receiving some funding towards the projects. When Michael Jackson declined, one week later the accusation was made public.

Michael Jackson had intended to fight these claims tooth and nail to prove his innocence. His legal team along with the advisement of his now new girlfriend Lisa Marie Presley and long time friend and Elizabeth Taylor. It was they who convinced Michael Jackson to settle out of court even after two Grand Juries questioned 200 witnesses but could not corroborate the Chandlers allegations. Charges were never filed due to lack of evidence. Jackson settled out of courts for 22 million. He stated he “just wanted to get on with his life.”

If you are curious was the money were used for. Through the settlement Evan Chandler did receive the funding he needed to produce his movie, “Robbin Hood: Men in Tights.”

And now, The 2nd incident.

After a very long friendship with the family of the accused, Jackson was once again accused of wrong doing by the Arvizo family. Before I get to the facts of the case I want to bring up a lil incident that took place before. In 1998 the Arvizo family was held on a shoplifting charges at a J. C. Penney. It is reported that the father sent out the children with arm loads of stolen clothing. They were detained and the mother Janet Arvizo got into a scuffle with security. Charges were eventually dropped but the Janet filled a $3 million suit claiming she had been beaten.

After an investigation it was learned that Janet Arvizo had rehearsed her children into lying about the days incident. She later claimed sexual abuse and settling out of court for $137,000.

Now, with that said…
Gavin Arvizo (the accuser) was 13 at the time. He was diagnosed with cancer and had a kidney and spleen removed. Jackson paid Gavin Arvizo's medical expenses and chemotherapy treatment. This was before they met. After their meeting they formed a close bond. It was reported the Jackson single handedly nursed the boy back to health.

When the Janet Arvizo and family were on good terms with Jackson she encouraged all the children to call him "Daddy,” Though Jackson already had 3 kids of his own.

Skipping head, during the trial, Janet Arvizo, wait… I should inform you that she recently married a man by the name of Jay Jackson., so during the trial adamantly insisted she be referred to as “Janet Jackson.” She made a number of claims on the stand alleging that she was kidnapped my Michael Jackson, yet during the time frame was out shopping and having spa treatments all under Michael Jackson’s dime. She even admitted to lying under oath in an unrelated court case. She also plead the fifth on the stand regarding welfare fraud.

In addition to her the prosecution had witnesses of questionable credibility such as Jackson’s EX body guard. He had been accused of robbing a number of retail stores and restaurants. As well as an ex house keeper who was fired for stealing. She ended up selling a story to media for $20,000 and runs porn site.

George Lopez was called as a witness during the trial and testified how the father was continually asking for / extorting money. He went as far to say that the father accused Mr. Lopez of stealing $300 from the boy.

In the end. Michael Jackson was found not guilty on all charges. There were no blacks on the jury.

Point I’m making is in each of these cases all the evidence is highly questionable. This is not the first time we have seen a celebrity dragged though the mud for financial gain. And while there are many who still speculate or are convinced in their mind. We all live in the united states, our legal system might not be perfect, but we all abide by it. That a man or woman can be accused or anything, and it up to a judge and a jury of our peers to find beyond reasonable doubt our guilt / innocence.

~ Ryoga

Preciously… Fin

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 20:24:56 GMT

Closure is something I rarely have the pleasure of having. Of all my run ins with people and foes, a finite end to a saga usually escapes me. And that’s when I realized that if I want closure, it has to come from within. I’m always in the driver’s seat, but I choose to take the ride for the thrill of the experience. Today, I take back the wheel and leave my competitors in my wake.

After a short conversation about our previous outing, Precious has decided to go silent and refuse to discuss our association any further. To be honest, I have no idea why she is angry at me (or even if she actually is). I’m frankly shocked that it came to this. At first I wrecked my brain wondering what I had done wrong to upset her. Eventually, I realized that there is no rhyme or reason and that this aftermath is simply madness.

“Hey, I feel weird about the other night and do not know what happened, so I am not comfortable hanging out, sorry.”

And with those words marked the end of a friendship. And while I’ve felt bad about for the past few days… I think its all for the better. I only have so much to give. And to be honest, I gave too much for this one. And frankly, she’s an alcoholic. Nothing but disaster in the making there.

So it is with a heavy heart hat I bid adieu to Lady Precious.

And as a parting gift, I hold dear her hair piece that she left in my car. In my defense I actually tried to set up an arrangement to return it to her. However she is uninterested. I’ll add this little trinket to the large mass of items that I’ve received from past friends and acquaintance. It will remain posted just above my desk as a constant reminder.

“Never make anyone a priority, when to them you are only an option. “

Easy come, easy go.
Now, let’s go rock this town!

~ Ryoga Vee

Michael Jackson: 1958 -2009

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:15:39 GMT

Why...?

Preciously Punked again!

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:15:25 GMT

This seems to be a reoccurring theme for me.
Never make anyone a priority, when to them you are only an option.

Some of you might remember “Precious” She and I went out again, perhaps for the last time tonight.

See, I’m willing to take an abundant amount of abuse if I feel it benefits me, or others. This is usually the case when I’m protecting someone else from discomfort. But there comes a time when even I have my limits.

Precious, that’s her name for the time being until I get severely upset and spout her real one. But after the Kim Livid episode, I’m starting to learn that when there is drama abound, real names should be left silent.

I asked Precious out to Fanime this year, Mana Energy Potions had just sent me a case of product to give out and I wanted to have her along side me as my staff. So, Friday, we head to the convention center. I get her badged up, and we walked around enjoying all the cosplay and Japanese culture.

She was feeling a bit adventurous and asked me to take her out for a drink, I obliged and we headed out to a local dive bar. The Cinebar be precise. Drinks are flowing, Precious and I are getting closer. All is well, however I can’t help but feel this setting is all too familiar. And deep down I’m just waiting for disaster to strike (again). And like a tightly wound clock, the cue came just in time.

A handsome young fellow enters the bar. And all the attention that I previously had by Precious instantly shifted. And much like before, it started with chatting, and then she ignored me all together. Rather than endure the previous pain of watching her make out in front of me with another guy, I just left and stood outside waiting for her to finish.

45 minutes pass and I'm getting tired, I have a commercial to shoot tomorrow morning in San Francisco and I decide to go back inside to hurry up the process. Precious is still there, looking deep in to the strangers eyes. She glances up and sees me, she says,

“I thought you left me.”

“No” I replied, “I would never do that.”

Like before, I felt responsible. I did take her out, and regardless of who she wanted to spend her romantic time with, I’m obligated by my own standards to take her home and keep her safe. I said something along the lines of,

“I just wanted to make sure you were ok, I’ll leave you be.”

As I turned around to retreat she quickly jumped up and asked me to go outside with her. And so we did. This sparked a very uncomfortable conversation between she and I. Deep down I was crying inside. And I’m not sure if I was crying over her, or the blatant disregard she has for me and my feelings. I hurts, and I know I can do better and devote my time to someone who wont disrespect me like this.

She asked how I was feeling and I just kept my head down, I did not even want to look at her. Normally this would be out of anger but this was actually a self reflection. I was embarrassed. I was consumed with the idea that after all I’ve been through with her, its finally clear to me that she must find me repulsive. Ok… maybe it’s not that harsh, but that’s how it feels on my end. I feel ugly and second best. I’ll never match up to her. Regardless of what she says one moment, the truth is…

“She’s just not that into you.”

Now, I’m not saying she had any obligation to me what so ever, but I’ve made my intentions very clear, and she and I have had these conversation before, so it stings even more to be told in one ear,

“I like you, you’re attractive, I’m looking for a long term relationship, let’s take things slow.”

And then watch as she slides you off the radar to indulge in what I can only assume is something better in her mind. If you like me, then like me. But don’t bat your eyes at me one moment and spit in my face the next.

During our discourse she reinforced how she felt about me, and for a moment I began to smile. For a second my spirits were lifted and all was well. I felt things were getting back on track. And then that all flew out the window.

As I was telling her we should go, because I knew she had work in the morning she said.

“Well, let me just see what happens with this guy inside.”

WHAT? See what happens?!? I’m thinking this must be a nightmare.

“So, you’re going home with him?” I reply.

“No, I just... um… want to see what happens.”

So, clearly my evening was done. I had nothing else to say, or even care for that matter. As expected, she returned inside and sucked face with Mr. Stranger. I sat idle near by wishing a bomb would drop out of the sky and end my misery. One second she’s telling me how into me she is and the next, I’m playing the sucker. I expected her to ditch me as she did last time. Or worse, send another text message, but wouldn’t you have it, the guy ended up vanishing.

So here we are, 2:30 A.M. On the cold streets of San Jose. And Precious is completely wasted. So, being the great friend that I am (and a FUCKING BITCH apparently), I painstakingly dragged her back to my car car. Which, I might add is over 6 blocks away. I switch back and forth to hold her up to actually carrying her in my arms. I took off my coat so she would be warm and whatever else I could to ease her discomfort. That's when it struck me, I'm a pussy. No matter what she does, I'll always be here for her, because... i can.

Let me remind you, all the bars let out, and Precious is an angry drunk. So, she not too shy to make a comment to someone if they look at us the wrong way. She mouthed something off to a group of ladies walking by. They did not take to kind to her. So, I have to, get in between her and a two potential beat downs.

I eventually get her to the car. She turns towards me with those beautiful eyes and tries to kiss me. I wanted to, I really did, but that lil thing called dignity keeps holding me back. I’m torn though, I want her to like me, and I like being at her side. But I know this newfound flirtatious behavior is only due to her inebriated state. I can’t take advantage of Precious. I might be an asshole, but I do have a hefty amount of moral fibers.

While in my car, Precious completely passes out the second she touches my seat. A short drive back to her place and then things get nasty (As if they were not already). I pull into her parking lot and after about 5 minutes of trying to get her to get her to come to, she looks at me angrily for reason I’m not yet sure of. She hastily gathers her belongings and rushes out of my car in a hurry. As she exited she called me an asshole and accused me of stranding her in the middle of no where. Confused as all can be I hopped out see what was wrong.

"Listen, you might think I'm a bitch, but you don't have to leave and strand me in the middle of nowhere!"

She continued to scream and yell at me. I had to hold her still and show her she actually was right in from of her apartment. She looked around very confused and gained her composure. To end the night, I walked her to the door; she was still unable to stand up correctly. And I must say, there was a reluctant kiss good night. As much as I want to, I feel dirty taking advantage of her. Even if she did pull me in for it.

I’m so sick of being a push over. Why do I stand for this kind of treatment? And why does it continue to find me?

Twice bitten, thrice shy.
Never again… I swear it

~ Ryoga

Herbert, the Onion

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 06:37:25 GMT

Id like you all to meet my new friend, Herbert.
Herbert is a store bought Onion that after sitting in my fridge for the past 6+ months, decided to thrive and grow inside my crisper.
Rather than let him die I have chosen to plant him and see if he really is meant for better pastures.

We'll see how he hold one once given a real chance to live.

~ Ryoga Vee

Brian Copeland

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 06:26:44 GMT

I met Brian Copeland at DeAnza today.
Hes a really wonderful guy.
I also picked up his book "Not a genuine black man."
I know what you are thinking, "A black man reading."
What can I say, I'm having an off day.

:)

~ Ryoga Vee

Mother Gives Marijuana Brownie To Child

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 23:49:02 GMT

By TERRY VAU DELL - Staff Writer

Posted: 03/05/2009 12:00:00 AM PST

OROVILLE -- A judge Wednesday scolded a Chico mother for giving a marijuana-laced brownie to her 5-year-old daughter and ordered her to complete a parenting class as a condition of probation.

"Everyone knows not to feed marijuana to a child," Butte County Superior Court Judge Robert Glusman told the single mother. "I hope you appreciate the degree of harm you put your daughter in."

Madeline McChesney, 32, earlier pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor child endangerment charge.

A Butte County jury that heard evidence in the case had acquitted her on a more serious felony charge, but was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on the lesser count on which she was sentenced Wednesday.

McChesney claimed through her lawyer, Jodea Foster, that she didn't realize the brownie she gave her 5-year-old daughter before taking her to school last April 17 contained pot.

The Chico mother maintained that a roommate who had a doctor's recommendation to use medical marijuana normally kept drug-laced brownies on top of the refrigerator, not on the counter, where she found it that morning, Foster told the jury.

When the youngster reported feeling "icky ... and swirly," and staff at Rosedale School in Chico were unable to contact her mother, she was taken to Enloe Medical Center, where traces of marijuana were detected in the youngster's system.

Had the case been re-tried, deputy district attorney Kelly Maloy said she advised McChesney's attorney that her roommates were prepared to testify that they never took the marijuana brownies off the top of the refrigerator.

In return for the mother's plea, the prosecutor agreed not to request any jail time, but insisted she undergo a parenting class.

At her sentencing Wednesday, the judge who heard her trial placed her on four years probation, stayed several hundred dollars in fines, ordered her to perform 200 hours of community service and complete a one-year "child abuse" course for parents.

McChesney is reportedly going through separate court reunification hearings to try to get back her daughter, who was placed in foster care following the brownie incident.
-----------------------------------------------------------

I'm ANGRY!

Wise words from Bertrand Russell

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 10:54:51 GMT

"Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric."
--Bertrand Russell-- (1872 - 1970)

Lisa Salters says black people dont Parkour

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 09:57:33 GMT

"This is something white people do, how many black people Parkour? ... none!" ~ Lisa Salters

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Satori Smackdown

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 03:44:22 GMT

So, I often complain about how I have no idea why I choose to leave the house. And each and every time I do, sometime unfavorable happens.

So I decided to go to the Blank Club tonight. The quiet, humble and low key space tucked away in the underbelly of downtown San Jose. Tonight was the first goth night / Satori of the new year.

I danced, met a few people, but mostly kept to myself. As the night was winding down, I noticed a lil commotion going on near the DJ booth.

There was a large man striking about the face a smaller person who obviously was not defending himself. So rather than confronting the guy that was being the aggressor, I intervened on the non-confrontational one. He was obviously drunk, but so were most people at the club. I felt the best way to defuse what ever the dispute was to move him along and to the other end of the club. He staggered a bit but eventually moved on.

Good deed done so I thought. I proceeded to go out side for a little fresh air and gather my thoughts. Some time passed and I decided to go back inside and do some more dancing. I was only in for 2 minutes when once again the lager male was attacking the man from before. So, as I did previously I approached the non aggressive one who was not fighting back and seemed confused. I tried to move him along again. While he was in my hands so to speak the aggressor reached around and struck him.

So now its obvious that the larger male is not messing around and wants to get to this guy by any means possible. Well,

“Not on my watch.”

I thought.

I turned toward the man and said,

“Back off! He’s drunk!”
While holding the other guy behind me. It seemed innocent enough.

“What?! You want some too?!”
He shouted.

“Nah man, he’s drunk!”
I exclaimed under the bright flashy lights and repetitive electronic music. That last bit of information is said with good reason. You see, there wew lights... sounds... drums… Boom!

I never was it coming. It took all of 3 seconds after I looked at him to turn the aggression towards me. I heard a metallic.

“ping”

And then I saw the ceiling.

Yeah, I got caught. Sensory overload did not allow me to see him pull a fast one on me. I got sucker punched. I quickly rolled back to my feet anticipating his drunken barrage of fist to continue. But… nothing happen. I looked around the shadows and red tinted glow of the dance flow wondering if I got his so hard that I could not see him but that was not the case… he ran.

Not im not making any comments on said person character, but if you hit someone and then run away, the average person would call that cowardly. But for me, I found it embarrassing. Not for him, but myself. I’m a fighter, im a ninja, I’m a Superhero. So to have someone, anyone catch me off guard and land a blow on me, set me self-esteem back a few notches. However the instant anger was more than enough to compensate for what I was feeling. I hopped up dashing for the front door to chase after my attacked but a moment was all he needed. Gone he was like the night escapes the day.

So there I am, confused, dizzy because he did indeed rock me. And filled with adrenalin with no where to focus it. Blood was dripping from my newly busted and swelling lip. And worst of all security never saw a thing.

Long story short, I called the cops, medics looked me over. But over all I felt I was alright. I’m sure I’m bound to see the guy that hit me again. The club is not that large. However, I’m debating on what I’ll do if anything in retaliation.

Should I just accept that I was caught and the better man got the drop on me. Should I take it as a personal attack and harbor vengeance of a later date. Or do I let the whole thing slide as either a lesson learned,

“Don’t get involved in other peoples quarrels.”
Or
“You saved someone who was defenseless from what could have been a worse ass whooping.”

I really don’t know. I’ll listen to my busted lip and see what it says tomorrow.

~ Ryoga Vee

A Hookers Aftermath

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 07:03:53 GMT

No matter how you look at it, this photo tells an interesting story.

~ Ryoga Vee

Elvis is in the building

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:52:33 GMT

This is Elvis, he is a Gyr Saker Falcon.

I’ve been tending to his needs today and enjoying his wonderful company.
I’ve never been this close to a bird of prey before, let alone have the opportunity to feed and care for it.

I’ll be working with him for the rest of the week.

~ Ryoga Vee

No Colony

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 10:34:29 GMT

Sad Sign In San Francisco

Well today was the final day that I would or would not have heard back from the Discovery Channel. No call, therefore, no show for Vee. Oh well! That would have been such an amazing project to be a part of. Eh, I tried. Casting directors liked me a lot , but I have to assume that production can’t really market a semi-Ninjaesque, Parkouring, Highflying, Manga inspired Superhero. Kinda hard to be realistic and take the show seriously when I’m a part of the cast / final survivors.

Sigh… life… goes on… without me (I… ain’t got nobody).

In other news I’m still tending to the Falcons till school starts. They are really amazing birds and I could get use to them.

I’m going mope somber and droopy like for the rest of the evening and contemplate my recent loss. And a day or two I’ll bounce back and nearly forget this was even a notion to me. Nothing more than a wound that time can easily heal.

~ Ryoga Vee

Hidden Aja

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:48:05 GMT

She'll be pissed for me posting more photos of her on my LJ... but shes my best friend.

Sigh... If only...

~ Ryoga

We Need A Resolution

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:23:25 GMT

Happy New Year

Welcome to the New Year.
The clock has struck 12 and all is right in the world.

This year I have very few resolutions.

1: Work out at lease 3 times a week.

2: Finish Perfect Unity.

3: Fall in love, and get heart broken again.

4: Get cast on a major network show.

5: Become better at Parkour.

All doable.

~ Ryoga

Enjoying The Spotlight

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 02:28:33 GMT

This was my fortune cookie today.

Boy did I just have the most amazing day! Where do I ever start?

Well, after hours of slaving over 50 pages of paper work for the discovery channel, I made it to my 2nd audition right on time with 2 minutes to spare. I was met in the lobby of the hotel Marriott in San Francisco by Stacy the Production Assistant for this project. She looked over my paper work and cleared up a few lingering questions before we finalized everything. One of the first things she asked me was, “So you have not done porn right?” a lil odd.

A few minutes later another gentlemen walked in. He had been given another time slot to appear, I was at 11:30, he was scheduled in for… oh yeah, that right, he wasn’t. This is where things get very interesting. Now pay attention, it’s time for a side quest to the main plot.

The man in question was upset because due to apparent scheduling conflicts the casting directors Jenny and Brett called and left him a message saying they would not be able to meet with him and that his information was already forwarded to production in LA. At least that’s the small snippet of the story I heard from the PA that was conveyed to the man in the lobby. He was then asked to go home and wait for a call for a more in-depth phone interview.

More time passes and it’s my turn for my 2nd interview and filming. The PA and I took some photos and head shots. After I was lead to a near by hotel room where there was a camera set up for some really gorilla style makeshift studio work. The PA mentioned to Jenny that the man I was talking about previously was in the lobby. Jenny was a lil miffed because apparently she had actually spoken to him yesterday on the phone and explicitly told him not to come and that (as I previously stated) his information had already been passed on. Jenny felt this was exceedingly unprofessional and Brett was also showing signs of disgust. Take notes because that’s the 2nd mentioning of the man in the lobby and another side of the story.

So moving along… Jenny and Bret thanked me for coming in. The showered me with compliments and that I was really interesting. Funny though Brett instantly asked me,

“Do you have a criminal record?”

He smiled as if it were joke and I had a feeling there was something else behind that comment. While I have one arrest, I have never been charged with a crime and have a clean record. Note this because it will all come full circle in a moment.

The plan was to catch me on film talking about myself and my life story enough so that production back in LA would get a adequate feeling as to who I am as a person. We had intended to only have me talk on camera for about 10 minutes, this actually went on for 20 because there is just so much to convey about me. I mean it can hardly be contained in sound bites. I discussed everything from life in Oklahoma, to moving out here to CA and being homeless, to Parkour, and even my life in the Fight club.

When we finished I was told that out of all the cities they had been in I was the most unique, interesting, and dynamic individual that had ever met. And I quote,

“We have never met anyone like you before!”

So, while there were no promises, they said they would be pushing me heavily to production to have me on the show. And not to make any plans. If all is a go, I’ll know by the 2nd or 3rd of January. And a tiny side note, if I am cast for the show, chances are you wont hear from me again as I’ll have to be silent due to NDA.

We eventually said our goodbyes as there seemed to be some sudden emergency taking place when we finished. Something else was happening while we were finishing up and I could not help but to think it had something to do with the man downstairs.

So, I’m leaving the hotel room. Happy as a clam, no, a jelly fish, no, a glow in the dark bear! Yeah, I’m that happy. I make my way back to the lobby and Mr. Gentlemen is still sitting there. Mind you, he had been told to leave, twice already. He’s on his cell phone talking to what I assume to be Jenny upstairs, and I can only head his side of the conversation be its pretty much,

“Yeah, uh huh, but I took off work today, I’m not crazy or a stalker… well… so you just want me to leave?” and so on.

I decided to wait and eavesdrop on his conversation because it was getting interesting. He then hangs up and belts out a loud,

“FUCK!”

Now I know he‘s pissed. He then calls another person explaining how he would not be audition today. And while I had heard Jenny say she actually spoke with him and told him not to show up, he was relaying a different story on the phone that he must not have gotten the message as if it were on voice mail and not directly spoken to him.

A little while later the Production Assistant walks down into the lobby again to set up the next arrival for interview. We ended up talking together which gave me the moment to tell her about our gentlemen friend who is still waiting for magic, actually he’s waiting for Jenny. I told the PA how he had stated he was not leaving until someone came down to speak with him which set off red flags to the PA, enough so that she felt the need to call security. Why you might ask? Well here is the final kicker. According to the PA, he was given a call back like me, and everything was fine. However after he got his paper work, he glanced over the section about whether or not he had a criminal record, he made some sort of comment to the effect of,

“I’ll need to make copies, my record is pretty long.”

And then it made sense to me. Once he uttered those words everyone changed their minds. That’s why Brett questioned me on it first as I walked in, that’s why they called to cancel his meeting. And that’s why he’s sitting in the lobby damn near being a stalker to the casting directors. All because he could not keep his mouth shut. And so, the circle is complete.

I did not stick around long after that, but the whole story seemed interesting to me. From the beginning to the end hearing two sides of the story from multiple vantage points. Kinda cool, and a lil creepy when you think about it.

Well, that’s it for now
Now its just a waiting game. We’ll see what happens.

~ Ryoga

The Colony (Call Back)

Sun, 21 Dec 2008 11:56:46 GMT

So I’m on cloud 9 right now. After a very successful interview with casting directors of the Discovery Channel this afternoon… I GOT A CALL BACK!
It was not all that hard, I have a very dynamic personality and given my long history of been in interviews of this nature it just came naturally.
The project is called “The Colony” and if chosen myself and 11 others will be dropped off in the middle of nowhere in what is being described as the ruins of a post apocalyptic suburban world. 50 days, No food, no water, no luxuries. Just ourselves and the harsh elements, as we find out what happens when people are left alone to rediscover life and form a… colony.

Now the simi hard part. I have a 50 page questioner that I have to fill out asking everything from, if I’ve ever killed a man, to, are their photos of your junk online.

I meet with them again on Monday for additional filming.

One interesting questing they ask is..

Please list and clubs, groups or movements of which you are or have been a member – include athletic organizations, academic societies, alumni associations, action groups, ect.

Should I put San Francisco Parkour as an athletic group?

A Fighters Aftermath

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:04:03 GMT

Oh what a difference a day makes.

I love that phrase. It’s calming and reassures me that no matter what happens, tomorrow is another day. What passes at the stroke of midnight can and will bring new adventures to explore and enjoy.

So last night myself, Gints and the rest of the fight crew watched G4 Investigates: Tech Fight Clubs. I was at first a lil upset with how things were edited. We shot for with myself alone and after all the follow up and preparation. We sent so much time on my artwork, fashions, background ect… and whole I had about 8 minutes of face time in an hour long program, I wanted a lil more. But I can’t complain too much. It was a good show and

And I’m a lil upset that everyone else got their background stories posted in video format online… and not mine. But that’s my ego talking. I’m having a hard time accepting that everything is not centered around me. But hey, that’s part of who I am, The Excellence of Arrogance! My name is my image and to quote Fall Out Boy, “I don’t care what you think, as long as its about me.”

As a result of yesterday a lot has happen.

For the second time this year I’ve been on the front page of Digg

My IMDB STARmeter jumped a whopping 254%

My inbox is filled with new fans from around the world.

Add that to my audition with Discovery Channel next week and this makes for a pretty amazing week.

I’ll be enjoying my extended 15 minutes; however at this point in my life my 15 minutes of fame had turned info 45.

~ Ryoga Vee

Sunnyvale Parkour

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 04:04:46 GMT

Today I had my first taste of training my own group of future parkour wanna bees.
Well not really, they are a great group of guys all with varying skill and I'm proud that they are willing to take direction from me.

This is likely to be a weekly thing as I need motivation to step up in my rants in the Parkour community, and there are those that actually want to training under me. So, we'll see how it goes.

Photos
http://s150.photobucket.com/albums/s117/RyogaVee/Parkour/Sunnyvale%2012-13-08/

G4 Investigates: Tech Fight Clubs

Sat, 22 Nov 2008 10:29:14 GMT

Los Angeles, CA, November 17, 2008 –

G4 goes inside a dark world few people know of and even fewer have experienced with the premiere of “G4 Investigates: Tech Fight Clubs.” The special takes viewers to real fight clubs where grown men gather to beat each other until one submits or gets knocked out. The underground action takes place where one would least suspect in the suburbs of technology capital Silicon Valley, CA. Viewers will learn what drives these “tech heads” to fight with sticks, purses full of lead and computer keyboards for no money, no reward…only pride and the satisfaction that they did it. Catch the premiere of “G4 Investigates: Tech Fight Clubs” on Saturday, December, 13 at 10:00PM ET/PT.

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

Oh.. My Sinister Laugh!

G4 Investigates: Fight Clubs

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:30:20 GMT

I finally got an air date.
Catch me next month on G4TV December 13th

Cha$e: Harbor 1.0 review.

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 10:02:50 GMT

As a person that dedicated his life the art of Parkour and being able to escape any situation or overcome any obstacle I find it my pleasure and duty to give a small review to the new and pleasantly enjoyable show, Cha$e, on Sci-Fi.

Welcome to the harbor. My first glance at the 10 contestants was mixed. But as each because to fill their role I could understand the casting choices. I expected more out of the WNBA player (Cynthia), and the female martial artist (Mecca). The two seemed scattered and confused through out the competition. Which brings me to perhaps the most important point of the show. This is by far more of a mental challenge than physical. Quick wits seemed to be the preferred skill in this game.

I was particularly impressed with the dirty playing runner (Clevant). Sacrificing her co-contestants for his own needs. In the end he was foiled by his own short coming but none the less I liked his strategy.

While for better or for worse the bulk of the contestants were filler, the real meat lies within the Hunters. Right of the bat I recognized one of them. Hunter Amazon! She’s actually a Fighter. I’ve seen her in the Extreme Chick Fights series. And yes, she’s very deadly. I never knew her as a runner but without a doubt an athlete if there were any.

In the end perhaps the most unlikely person ended up the winner. In my eyes it was a case of luck, timing and fortunate location.

Some things I picked up in the duration of the show.

Communication devices are iPhones. This kinda felt it was in the sprit of Who Wants to Be a Super Hero when they used Sidekicks.
Deflectors were gold painted WiiMotes.
Runners had to obey all traffic laws as I never saw a runner NOT use the side / crosswalk. This also applied to Hunters.
Hunters (perhaps) walk a set path. They only break it if you come into their view.
Pigeons, lots and lots of pigeons.

My only gripe is I never saw anyone go above and beyond to avoid capture. Perhaps this was because of fatigue, or lack of intuition but I wanted to see more desperation out of the contestants.

Well, that's all for now, see you next week.

~ Ryoga Vee

When Yes / No on prop 8 Clash!

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 06:00:19 GMT

Posted via LiveJournal.app.

Its Getting UGLY!