Drew's Blog: Surf, Skate, Snow, & Music

A couple of quick kid pics

2008-11-25T16:06:00.000-08:00

Riley and Evan at home today..They get a whole week off..So does mom..But I only get two days off...I wish I got to spend more time during the day with them.

The Damned and the Adolescents at HOB, Pumpkin Patch rides/slides.

2008-11-08T07:13:00.001-08:00

A couple of Halloween photos...

2008-10-31T14:33:00.001-07:00

Too much going on...Disney on ice, Steve Poltz at Anthology, Adams Ave. Streetfair, La Mesa Oktoberfest

2008-10-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

Went to see Steve Poltz tonight from the Rugburns and it was an unreal show. Played some classic Rugburns songs and many of his own. It was in Anthology in downtown..Tim Flannery formerly of the Padres played some sets with him. Poltz is quite hilarious and comes up with some ridiculous lyrics.

Took the kids to see Disney on Ice a few weeks ago and just generally been very busy.

By the way, who did my daughter's hair to look like Nell from Little House on the Prairie? I didn't authorize that...still cute though..Don't ask me how I know that character's name...

The kids...

2008-10-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

The nanny took a couple of pictures of the kids this morning. One is Riley's fake sadface that we do to each other..This helps make her laugh when she's sad..These guys are the cutest...

One Track Mind, Adams Ave Street Fair, Playhouse Disney, and Fear, Agent Orange, & Dr. Know at HOB

2008-09-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Busy weekend...Friday had the day off so I saw Riley in school in PE and other activities, then took Evan to the park to skateboard while he was on the scooter. Friday night we went to see PLayhouse Disney Live at the Sports Arena, Saturday was car repair day then we went to Patagonia Surf Shop in Cardiff to see Chris Malloy's new movie "One Track Mind". Great movie. Sunday we went to Adam's Avenue Street Fair all day. Then I rested up to catch some good old hardcore punk rock with Dr. Know, Agent Orange, then Fear. Crazy weekend...

Random Shots of the Kids

2008-09-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

Evan with the stink eye...

2008-09-15T11:45:00.000-07:00

Life as a Movie at La Paloma in Encinitas

2008-09-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

This was a last minute thing but I took my wife and it was a great time. The movie had the whole crossover of surfing, snowboarding, and skateboarding have pros try each others sports. Really entertaining. Well worth it.

Motorhead at HOB

2008-09-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

I've been anticipating this show for a while. Opened by Year Long Disaster and Valient Thorr. Year Long Disaster was really good sounding, Valient Thorr left a lot to be desired. It's almost as if they need a little stronger lead singer who isn't trying so hard to be "metal". Motorhead on the otherhand was excellent. With Lemmy's raspy voice it sounded like the Motorhead I know well. Even at his age he really fires it up. With the same lead guitarist and a relatively young looking drummer I was completely impressed. Complete with a drum solo, little guitar solo, encore with one solid blues song it was a really good show overall. They played hits such as "Ace of Spades" as well as songs from their new album "Motorizer". Definitely would see them again.

Devo concert at the Del Mar Race Track

2008-09-02T11:48:00.000-07:00

Went with my wife and met up with Mark and his daughter and a friend. Overall a cool show. Devo has always been one of those odd bands but they played some of their catchier tunes like "Whip it" and a few others that really got everyone fired up. Really fun time and I really still dig those guys after all of these years.

Also threw in a few pictures from the phone of the kids.

Random Shots

2008-08-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

A couple of bad shots of Rockpiles in Del Mar, and a few shots at Avery's birthday party in the bouncy.

Donavon Frankenreiter on the Inspiration Hornblower Cruise

2008-08-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

Took my wife and met a buddy at the edge of downtown and the bay to catch this concert that was free from 102.1 KPRI. It was an amazing new boat and it was a great time. The top deck is where they played so you could watch the concert from 10 feet away and see all of the skyline buildings and sites as the sun was setting. Overall a really good show, on a really cool boat.

More Cardiff Kook Statue Shenanigan's

2008-08-25T10:01:00.001-07:00

Scripps Surf...

2008-08-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

Surfed with Mike P. at Scripps today. Not the ideal place to surf at low tide with the swell not here yet. But got this shot on surfinside.com nonetheless.

Riley

2008-08-12T16:41:00.000-07:00

Riley in her new booster seat, at our new table, in our new back yard...

The Jon Schultz Eulogy

2008-08-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

I wrote this and read this at Jon's Funeral. I actually never thought it was good enough because I had so much to say but I figured I'd throw it on here. It's more upbeat than sad actually.

My friend Jon Schultz:
It all started in Indialantic Elementary School where I met Jon. We were a couple of grades apart and my sister had known Jon before I did. By the time we made it to Hoover we both ended up in the same in school detention and became acquainted again and knew each other around school. It was in Melbourne High School in guitar class that I really became good friends with Jon. We started surfing together and skateboarding together on a regular basis. I always knew Jon was different than any of my other friends and very unique. He was quiet, and didn’t really like to interact a lot with other kids. He was extremely talented and artistic.

I think we surfed and skateboarded our way through High School, Jon being more successful academically than I ever was. After high school we surfed and skateboarded nearly every day we possibly could. Jon taught me a lot of maneuvers skateboarding and with him, it all came with great ease.

We made several trips to Cape Hatteras and always bickered and had a blast on the way, finding really dumb signs and taking photos of anything that amused us. Jon was always cracking jokes, and never liked to be in pictures so he always made a goofy face in each photo. He, along with other close friends all spent a great deal of time at the boardwalk in Indialantic and just having a good time in our 20’s.

Early on, Jon met Emily. I have to admit I was jealous of this at first. My friend had found the love of his life and since I was the one without a girlfriend I had to surf more alone, find other things to do and places to go.

I was there the night that Jon first met Emily. It was really one of the more amazing things I’ve ever seen. Jon had thought that she had a boyfriend and immediately was jealous without even really knowing her. I believe later that day or the next day they connected by phone and that was history. The most perfect match I have ever seen had been made.

These were the two most unique artistic, people. Before Jon met Emily he was fairly introverted, and although he was never extremely outgoing, Emily brought out the best in him.

I can remember numerous summers where we surfed together with several of our friends at 15th Street in Cocoa Beach until we were burnt to a crisp and just had to eat. We’d always head up north and eat Cuban food, then part ways and take naps.

As time went on we all had different things we needed to do in life. Jon and Emily in New Orleans, then Jacksonville Beach, and I eventually made my permanent trip out west to start my own life and family. Jon and Emily started a family having BeBe, Josie, then Sammy. Even so far away I’ve always try to keep in touch and talk to Jon on a regular basis. I will truly miss the best friend I have ever had and know that the world and especially his family has lost a great father, husband, and human being that is irreplaceable.

Picture says it all...

2008-08-04T16:01:00.000-07:00

Grabbed this from the daily donkey blog. A lot of these guys floating around La Jolla and Cardiff, and even a few in Del Mar. I haven't had too many sessions in the last month where there wasn't one SUP. Fortunately most just stick to their own little spot. I've watched guys get mowed over by them at LJ Shores and a couple in Del Mar both because of carelessness and being out of control. I'm sure it's good exercise but I'll stick to surfing on a fish, shortboard, or the occasional log..

Bustin' Down the Door

2008-08-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

Went with my wife to see this movie and several other friends. It was really well put together and spoke about the small crew of South Africans and Australians that charged the north shore and really pushed for competitive surfing to take place as a career. Got to meet Shaun Tomson again which was really cool. In the early 80's I saw him in Melbourne Florida at a mall shop named "Crosstown Express". He actually remembered the shop and the tour and that it was for an Instinct Promo Tour. Amazing how long ago that actually was.

Melbourne High School 20 year Reunion Class of 1988

2008-07-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

I've got this one picture that was taken so far but this was more of a family trip to Florida to visit old friends, family, and see old classmates. Stayed at the Crown Plaza that used to be the old Holiday Inn Melbourne Oceanfront. I remember many a day hanging out as a kid near the pool and went to a couple of Sundek Classics and watched the local pros go at it in small rocky surf which was always so much fun because the whole surf feel was in the air despite the small surf.

I got really lucky on July 12 and 13th and the following Saturday July 19th in getting really really good Hurricane Bertha Swell. Surfed behind the hotel, Jamestown, and 16th Street. Evan rode his first waves on a body board at 3 years old and loved it, Riley really enjoyed messing around on BeBe's pink longboard and enjoyed splashing through the waves with mommy. Scoring waves in Florida in July was a total treat. they had nothing prior to that all summer and it's been pretty small each day after that so I was there the perfect week for surf. The Friday before we left I went to the Satellite High School Class of 88 reunion at Doubles Hoagies and that was really cool to see a few guys I'm friends with there and some people I haven't seen since Jr. High.

John Mayer Show at Cricket Ampitheater

2008-07-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

Took my wife to this show for our wedding anniversary. I wasn't too excited about it. I like his music, but never really liked it too much. Kinda lumped him into the Jack Johnson or Dave Mathews genre which is really good but not stuff I get really into. A woman named Colbie Caillat opened 2nd and she was pretty solid. Never heard of her but very talented. John Mayer's band has a lot of depth in musical ability. I was most impressed by his ability to write and orchestrate his own music but his blues riffs and guitar playing ability was incredible. I was definitely shocked and impressed at his obvious blues roots influences. Very good concert, at a great venue.

A couple of random shots

2008-06-17T10:30:00.000-07:00

One of Evan on his bike, and one with Grandpa and Riley with her new helmet on.

Evan at the Park

2008-06-13T11:09:00.001-07:00

Riley's in school so Cheryl took Evan to the park and here he is swinging while I work.

Burned at 15th Street

2008-06-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

Surfed with Ryan Zaik this morning at 15th. Pretty fun..Mushy but still some chest high sets. Managed to get two shots of me getting completely burned by Ken the mayor of 15th street...I've know this guy for years and he looks back, smiles, drops in and completely burns me....Couldn't be mad..He's too nice a guy and he was goofing around..Still a fun surf though today overall.

Fiesta Del Sol Solana Beach, Dead Kennedy's and Jody Fosters Army

2008-06-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Busy weekend..took the kids to the Fiesta Del Sol in Solana Beach...One train ride, some bands to see, some fun for them at the playground at Fletcher's Cove, some face painting, and 4 or 5 hours later time to go home. Went with Jason to see the Dead Kennedy's and JFA. Good show. Even though DK doesn't have the original lead singer it was still a lot of fun to see them.

Bulatao Visit in April

2008-06-06T16:21:00.001-07:00

Jose and Tammye came down and we met them at HOB in April. A couple of shots they got with Cheryl and I in it.

Evan at Sea World

2008-06-06T12:31:00.000-07:00

I guess the kids section at Sea World has been revamped to include a Sesame Street theme and include a lot more rides and things to do. Cheryl's last day of teaching this summer was yesterday and Evan is not in school on Friday's so they made a trip over with the yearly passes. He looked like he had a lot of fun...Wish I were there...

Pool King Skateboards

2008-06-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

Just bought a new full setup with this exact deck a couple of weeks ago. Got some street and pool/park wheels. We'll see if I use the pool wheels anytime soon but I wanted to get back onto skateboards I really liked to ride. As soon as the boards got thin and looked the same on both ends I bought sector 9 and dregs boards.

Primer Grimes gets bit by a shark

2008-05-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

My old friend Bruce Grimes who shaped my boards for several years and I used to surf and skate with got bit by a shark in mexico. Not fun.

Shark attack takes bite out of Grimes

BY HILLARD GROSSMAN • FLORIDA TODAY • May 27, 2008

Bruce Grimes has been designing radical-shaped surfboards for more than 25 years. But Saturday, a shark had designs on the 49-year-old Satellite Beach native while he surfed off the coast of Mexico.
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Surfing in the fishing village of Zihuatanejo, Grimes was bitten by a shark on the hand and "up and down" his arm, according to his mom, Joan, of West Melbourne. A day earlier, a 21-year-old surfer was killed by a shark at a nearby beach.

Initially, an Associated Press story that appeared in Sunday's editions misidentified Grimes as "Greems" and did not disclose his hometown. It also said he had lost his thumb, but that was untrue.

"I was so shocked when I read that story, I thought it had to be him," Joan said Monday. "It was hard to get a call down there, but I finally reached him. He got bit pretty good, but he said he's OK. He didn't want to worry us, so he never called."

Grimes creates Prime Surfboards, using laser technology and geometric shapes.

Zihuatanejo, on the Pacific side, is 152 miles west Acapulco. Next month's X Games surfing contest will take place in Puerto Escondido.

"I remember when he used to surf off (Galveston) Texas, he would be the farthest one out, and I'd worry about him," Joan said. "Now, I'm still worrying about him."

Mexico Navy hunts for sharks after attacks
Mon May 26, 2008 9:41pm BST Email | Print | Share| Single Page| Recommend (0) [-] Text [+] By Noel Randewich

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - The Mexican Navy searched for sharks in the ocean near Pacific surfing beaches on Monday, after two bathers were killed and another maimed in a rare spate of shark attacks.

Three boats and a helicopter patrolled the sea while Navy and rescue officials scanned the horizon with binoculars from popular beaches around the southwestern Mexican resort of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. They warned surfers not to go far out.

"We've been monitoring the beaches; we've done reconnaissance flights," Rear Adm. Arturo Bernal said, adding that no big shark had been detected yet in the area.

Surfer Bruce Grimes from Texas was bitten on the arm on Saturday off nearby Playa Linda beach, making him the third target of a shark attack in the area in a month.

Two attacks in April and May killed a Mexican and an American -- the first shark deaths off Mexico's Pacific coast in 30 years, according to official records.

Grimes, 49, said he paddled madly toward shore on his board after feeling the unmistakable sandy skin of a shark glide across the bottom of his feet as he straddled his surfboard.

"Then it bumped me really hard. I thought, 'That's definitely a big shark.' I took about three more strokes and he grabbed my arm," said Grimes, who pulled himself free and made it to the beach. He managed to drive himself to a hospital, where he received 100 stitches.

On Friday, Mexican surfer Osvaldo Mata, 21, died after a 6-foot-long (2-m-long) shark seized him, bit off one of his hands and chomped on his thigh. That followed the death in late April of a 24-year-old American who was mauled while surfing nearby.

Riley and Evan in the sandbox

2008-05-28T16:20:00.001-07:00

The nanny got a picture of the kids playing today. Still more fun that what I do all day...

Out There by Teton Gravity Research and Surfrider Foundation

2008-05-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

Went to the Museum of Art in La Jolla with Cheryl to see this Friday. Definitely a good message. Had some El Salvador pictures in in of a spot I surfed when we passed through there. Lots of big wave surfing and lots of environmental messages. Good flick.

Another good one gone...

2008-05-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

Bob Woyshner was a really good guy and a lot of fun to be around. I'm sad that his close family and friends lost him. Really liked him a lot. Caught some good surf with him at Monster Hole, always had a good time when he was part of the Novak family at dinners and other family events.

Robert Woyshner
ROBERT WOYSHNER INDIALANTIC Robert Charles Woyshner "Bear", 56, died suddenly Mon day, May 12, 2008, while executing his training as an ocean rescue lifeguard for Indian River County. Bob, affectionately known to many as "Bear", "Bob-o", and most recently as "Papa Bear" was predeceased by his mother, Roberta in 1999 and his father, Robert in 2006. Bob is survived by his wife, Susan (his E.T.) of Indialantic; his stepson and daughter-in- law, Sam and Crystal Perkins of Patrick Springs, VA; two grand sons, Toby and Quentin Perkins of Patrick Springs; his mother- in-law, Cora and father-in-law, Harold Brown of Westbrook, ME; his sister-in-law, Vicki and brother-in-law, Carl Frost of Gorham, ME; two nieces, Alexis Hourigan and Jessica Frost; a sister, Gail and nephew, Paul Bagdanov of Ocean Grove, NJ; and numerous aunts and cous ins. Bob could always make others take notice of the fact that we all need to have time to "play" in our lives and he demonstrated this by his love of music, his love of surfing, his dedication to any project he undertook, and his love of his family and friends. Bob graduated from Neptune High School, Neptune, NJ and Trenton State College, Trenton, NJ. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout while in his teens. Bob has been an ocean rescue life guard for more than 35 years serving New Jersey, South Florida, and most recently in Indian River County, FL. A memorable "paddle out" service, open (at the request of his wife, Sue) to his countless lifeguard comrades and his expanse of friends, will be conducted on Saturday, May 24, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. from Golden Sands Beach, Indian River County, FL where Bob had been life-guarding since October, 1994. This will be our way of saying, "Aloha, Bob - we love you." Arrangements by South Brevard Funeral Home, 724-2222. Please sign guest book at www.affuneral.com

Jon Schultz Artwork-Eulogy

2008-05-19T14:07:00.001-07:00

Here's a couple of shots a friend took of a picture Jon painted me and Emily's "Sweet Spot" Eulogy. The picture was one that Jon gave me in the early to mid-90's that he painted. He really liked to make really interesting surf pictures with colors that were outrageous but really seemed to fit. I love this picture. Perfect setup, definitely has colors that work well together. My wife thinks it's a bit bright/loud for most places in the house but the new house will have a special place for it visible to see daily.

Riley and Evan's late late birthday party

2008-05-19T13:59:00.000-07:00

Had a decent turnout. Party was originally in late April but since my best friend Jon's memorial was that weekend there was no way I was going to miss that. Riley turned 4 on January 21st, Evan turned 3 on March 6th, and only a few days before the party I turned 38 on May 15th. But we didn't celebrate mine of course.

X-Fest 2008 San Diego

2008-05-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

Pretty fun show. Only got there for a couple of remaining punk bands then Pennywise and The Offspring. Other than the nasty smoke and people barfing everywhere it was fun.....I must be getting a little too old for that bad smell and the rambunctiousness...

Riley and Evan Playing the Saxophones

2008-05-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

They both got these as late birthday presents and love them.

Evan and Bailey

2008-05-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

The nanny took Evan and Bailey to the north Clairemont Park and they look like they're having more fun than I am..Not shocking...

"Sweet Spot" by Emily Schultz

2008-04-29T21:40:00.000-07:00

The following was the speech that Emily gave at Jon's funeral. This really says it all:

I sat down with Jon a couple of days before he passed away, and asked him some important questions about his life.

I asked him, "What is the most important thing for our kids to know about surfing?".

He said, "To always know where the sweet spot is, to know where to put the pressure. It's a place on the board where by putting the pressure on it, it goes faster, paddling or riding. It's not always in the same place."

And I asked, How can the sweet spot move?"

Jon said, "No wave is the same. It's not always in the same place, it's just a feeling."

Of all of the questions I asked him, this was the most profound. Because the sweet spot is the place we are all searching for in life. Sometimes you may have to work harder, dig deeper, or simply trust your intuition. And sometimes...with just a slight shift of position, you find that it's right there in front of you.

In the end, Jon always found his sweet spot and it was always worth the ride.

The Jon Schultz Paddle Out

2008-04-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Some pictures forwarded to me of this amazing day so far. After the paddleout Mike Kohler, Emily and I traded waves for a couple of hours. Just like old times (sort-of).

A few Florida Shots post-memorial

2008-04-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Some pictures at Jim and Heather's for Lucas' birthday party, etc. Sammy looks so much like Jon...

Random Schultz Family pictures

2008-04-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

My Best Friend Jon Schultz

2008-04-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

My best friend Jon Schultz passed away this morning Monday April 21st at 6am after an amazing 5 month battle against Burkitt's Lymphoma. We thought for sure he was going to make it, but it was too tough for him to beat. I had some great conversations with him on the phone in the past few months and got to see him for a week in December which I'm very thankful for. He'll forever be the guy who I called my best friend and the guy who helped me become who I was today and a much better person that I would have been if I had not met him. In high school he was so academically talented but his interests were in the same place as mine. Surfing, Skateboarding, Music and guitar. All of those things he did with style and grace and I could only aspire to have his talent and natural abilities. He was a successful plumber with his own business and provided the caring-ness and quality that all people deserved. His artistic ability was amazing also. He painted me some amazing pictures that I will hang and keep forever reminding me of this person who could paint a surf scene in minutes that was just amazing. I'm so sad to lose my best friend.

Here's all of the memorial info. including the paddleout:

Please join us in remembering the wonderful life of father, son, husband, brother and friend to all: Jon.

Friday evening at 8:00 p.m. will be a Memorial at Gleason Park Rec. Center. We will be able to remember Jon through a slide show set to his favorite tunes. Emily would like everyone to write a little something about their favorite time with Jon. Stationary will be provided.

Saturday morning: At 10:00 a.m. will be the funeral service at the Holy Trinity Chapel (50 W. Strawbridge Ave. Melbourne, FL 32901) where Em and Jon were married. Reception to follow at the church.

Sunday morning: In the spirit of the Hawaiian tradition, a ceremonial paddle-out is often performed by surfers who wish to remember and honor their brethren. We will meet at 8:00 a.m at the Officers Club. The paddle-out will commence at 9:00.

The love and generosity everyone has given to Em and the children is unfathomable. She looks forward to being with those who made their life so full and wonderful.

Helmet with Mondo Generator at Canes

2008-04-18T09:15:00.001-07:00

Went to Canes last night to see Helmet. Fluff opened up and were really solid. A couple of guys in that band are in the San Diego band Reeve Oliver, which also is good. The 2nd band was Fireball Ministry. That band was the surprise of the night. Good old fashioned heavy metal and hard rock. Just a good band to hear. Next Mondo Generator came on and they were solid. They even have a song that the lead singer wrote that Queens of the Stoneage also has on their "Songs for the Deaf" album. Must be some agreement there since the lead singer used to play guitar for QOTSA. Helmet came on and played a lot of songs I did not know and some classics from Meantime. Excellent show, great venue as always and a fun time.

Sliding Liberia at La Paloma

2008-04-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

Great movie on Friday. Went with Jason of Zeegig.com, his buddy (can't remember if it was Ryan?), Ryan Zim, Max, Edgar, Rich and Stephanie so it was a good little group. We all really enjoyed the movie. It really showed the side of Liberia that we don't think about (but we've heard about) and showed the process of rebuilding that country. Not to mention locals now getting into surfing. There were a couple of lefts there that were so incredible....I would love go to there in about 10 years if it is still safe...

One Run at Big Bear

2008-04-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

Drove up to Big Bear yesterday for one last shot at snowboarding this season. Nobody else wanted to go and maybe that was good for them. I left too late in the day, got caught in major traffic on the 215, and even was detoured to an area I didn't know well so I took the long way around....Needless to say when I got there a little after noon the snow wasn't too great, it was a little jammed with kids. The terrain was good but the snow was sparse and not conducive to having fun flying down the hill..I took advantage of the 75 minute rule, got full credit for half day ticket and will use it next winter....I won't be going this late to local mountains any more..I'll be going next January when the snow and temperatures are at their best for southern California mountains..Until next year...

A few more vegas pictures with the kids and Evan's haircut

2008-03-31T09:05:00.001-07:00

Vegas, Hippotherapy, Doodlebops, Evan's Birthday, other kids pictures

2008-03-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened in the last several weeks/months. Riley turned 4 in January, Evan 3 in March, took the kids to see the Doodlebops, took the family to Vegas, and some other random shots of the family, and Riley on the horse at hippotherapy. A few Christmas pictures we forgot to post as well as the Easter Seals Easter Egg Hunt the kids went to a few weeks ago.

Bad Religion at HOB

2008-03-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

Went to this show with Mike Doud Saturday night. There were two opening bands which I won't mention much about since they didn't really fit the bill well.

Bad Religion is I band I missed seeing in the 90's and I'm really glad I got to see them this time around. They were simply amazing to watch and they played all eras of songs. The length of time they played was pretty incredible too. Their stamina is still there. Everything from American Jesus back to some of their late 80's music was played, including a couple of songs from their new album. It's cool that Brian Baker formerly of Minor Threat, Dag Nasty, Sam Hain, and some other bands is one of their guitar players. Not to mention the guitar player for the Circle Jerks is still in the band-Greg Hetson. I was very surprised at how well the audience knew the lyrics. Bad Religion still has it and they are still very popular. Great show. Always enjoy the shows at HOB. Also threw in a few pictures of the kids from the past week.

Serj Tankian and the Foo Fighters at Cox Arena

2008-03-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

Took Cheryl to see the Foo Fighters. I was bummed we missed Against me but we got there and I could swear System of a Down was playing. I'm not a big fan of that band but as I got closer I realized it was the lead singer of System of a Down with his own band self titled for his own name Serj Tankian. It was actually a really great show and I liked it better than System myself.

The Foo Fighters were in phenomenal form as usual. I took Cheryl for our 3rd wedding anniversary during the Foo Fighters Acoustical tour a couple of years ago and I was very impressed by his ability to orchestrate so many great performers (strings, percussions, guitars, etc.). There was an acoustic set at the beginning of the second set which was great. Drum Solo, guitar solo, and the drummer sang a song. They played all of their hits and some hidden gems that aren't as well-played on the radio. Overall just an amazing show and well worth every penny. Cox Arena is a great venue to see a show. We were off to the side with a great view of the guitar techs, and the crew setting things up. Dave Grohl was all over the place getting the crowd fired up. Great time. I'll definitely do it again. I definitely need to get a better camera phone as you can see.

Tahoe Quick Boarding Trip

2008-02-18T09:16:00.001-08:00

Met up with John Knoke and his girlfriend Shawna for a quick two day trip to Tahoe. Weather was unreal, snow was great, and we had a blast up there....Got pretty toasty. The first day we spent at Kirkwood and the second day we spent at Heavenly. Prices were outrageous due to presidents day weekend but well worth the trip up....We managed to avoid much of the crowds by staying high and at heavenly starting at the Nevada side..Full groomed snow, almost nobody up there for two hours...The black diamonds that were groomed were fun, but there were more blues groomed. Threw in a few pictures of the kids that I had on my camera phone here too. I really missed Cheryl and the kids and they were pretty sick while I was gone but I'm back and hopefully everyone will be better soon.

Side note: John Knoke hasn't snowboarded in 3 or 4 years and was flying down the mountain and tearing it up. My favorite run was this huge ditch that was about 8 or 10 feet high..it had some bumps but it was like surfing an uneven but super fun halfpipe that went 200 yards...John went there too but wasn't as stoked as I since he hadn't been out as recently as I had...If I were there for a week I would have loved to have hit every ditch/ravine/bowl that we could find..Especially with better snow...John's still there..And I'm jealous! To mine (and John's surprise) both of us fell minimally...I only fell once the same time as John did about 20 feet from the lift....It was pretty funny (after the fact) and I'm glad I didn't fall on any heavy runs...That hurts!

Hot Hot Heat, Louis XIV, and The Editors

2008-02-14T09:22:00.000-08:00

Took my wife Cheryl and met up with Jason and his girlfriend Alyssa..Haven't seen Jason in about 12 years and caught back up by pure chance when he was trying to find someone to write reviews for the FM949 Holiday Hootenanny back in December for his website ZeeGig. It was really cool to catch back up with Jason and meet Alyssa. We caught dinner at the House of Blues restaurant and proceeded to catch Hot Hot Heat. Caught last 4 to 6 songs and I was totally impressed. Always thought that band sounded cool but never bought any of their albums...I think I'd actually buy some of their albums for my Ipod now. Their last two songs were two of their hits and the crowd was pretty amped on that. Louis XIV showcased some of their new songs from their new album and again I was impressed to see them again. Really enjoyed their show with old and new songs. Unfortunately it got a bit too late so we didn't catch any of the Editors so no review there.

Jake Shimabukuro at Anthology, Downtown San Diego

2008-02-08T08:26:00.001-08:00

I took my wife to see Jake play and it was a show that was very impressive. This guy plays the Ukulele and amazingly well at that. His influences and songs were extremely diverse. Everything from George Harrison, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, classical, jazz influences, etc. were part of his repertoires. His demeanor was so nice and he was humorous and really had a lot of interesting things to say. His knowledge of all types of music was impressive and his range was really incredible. My wife and I didn't know what to expect but we were pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed it. We would surely go see him again in the future. Well worth it and Anthology is a top notch concert venue.

Riley Again..

2008-02-04T08:28:00.001-08:00

Riley was excited to go to Disneyland..It was rainy in the AM but cleared up for the rest of the day but just cloudy all day...Pretty empty due to the superbowl and rain though.

More Old Camera Shots 2006-2007

2008-01-25T15:54:00.000-08:00

Old camera shots of the kids last year and 2006

2008-01-25T15:30:00.000-08:00

Cheryl apparently needed a new phone so she's unloading a bunch of pictures to me...so here are some...

Riley's turning 4

2008-01-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

Some shots of the kids during this past weekend. Cheryl was in Tahoe with some of her teacher friends relaxing for the weekend. I took the kids to their normal swim lesson Saturday and Ryan came to help out which they loved. Then we went to Chuck E Cheeses for the kids with Rich and Mark's families. Riley and Evan went nuts there...Yesterday while leaving the kids club at the gym Both of them proceeded to put their fingers in their noses which I couldn't resist taking a picture of because they were laughing so hard. Cheryl's not proud of this and will be even less happy that I put the pictures here. :)

Riley in her new carseat....

2008-01-14T14:24:00.000-08:00

On the way to Balboa Park..she was pretty excited...

Sliding Liberia-The website and movie

2008-01-03T09:06:00.001-08:00

Looks like the website is finished. Can't wait until this movie comes through San Diego.

http://www.slidingliberia.com/

La Jolla Cove

2007-12-31T07:46:00.000-08:00

Went with Cheryl's mom, her aunt, and the kids to La Jolla Cove on Saturday. Kids had a blast in the cove and on the beach. I didn't get any pictures of anyone else except Cheryl and the kids on my phone. Here's a few shots. One picture is of Riley not enjoying bean sprouts...

Evan and Riley October 2007

2007-12-28T10:22:00.000-08:00

A few pictures of Evan as Peter Pan that he dressed as for Halloween. We were in Olive Garden and he had those tong scissor type things that he was playing with that looks weird. I just realized I posted a few of these a few postings down but I'll leave them anyway...

Tampa Trip

2007-12-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

Went to Tampa to see Jon Schultz. It was really cool to hangout with him all week and see how he was doing. He improved significantly and I was really happy to be able to talk with him and hangout before I left last Sunday. I hope to catch him health again in the summer and him back with his family living life to the fullest.

John Knoke and his girlfriend Shawna came over for a night and we saw the Tampa Bay Lightening Hockey Game. I'd never been to one so it was pretty fun. Here are a few shots from that. Also are a few shots from the hotel in downtown that I stayed for one night outside of the window of the hotel room.

Riley Swinging

2007-12-26T13:09:00.001-08:00

FM949 Holiday Hootenanny

2007-12-17T08:14:00.001-08:00

Took Cheryl to see this the day before I flew to Florida to see my good friend Jon in the hospital. Louis XIV and Queens of the Stoneage really stole the show...the kooks were good, and so was Pinback. Great show!

My friend Jon Schultz

2007-12-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

My buddy Jon Schultz got this shot at 2nd light a few years ago. the guy absolutely rips on a longboard. Great noserides, spinners, switchstance, cutbacks, floaters, off the lips, and back in the 90's he popped some airs on his log sometimes. Right now he's fighting cancer and I think about him daily. He was my best friend in childhood and is still my best friend. I hope he gets well soon so his family, friends, and the world get to enjoy his company for many more years.

In the group photo Jon is the one in the middle left of the picture with the brown shirt. This photo was from a group photo of a few of my friends that I got to see when I was back there August of 2006. It's tough being this far away with a friend being so ill.

Lenny Kravitz, Duran Duran, and Matchbox 20 at the JIngle Ball

2007-12-10T15:02:00.001-08:00

Went with my wife to this concert...She likes this station...I like another better since this one has a lot of pop..It was cool to see Lenny Kravitz, and some of the old songs from Duran Duran. Another woman played to open but we missed her..Heard she was good...Matchbox 20 was pretty good too...Not a fan of a lot of the pop stuff but a good show nonetheless. May miss the FM949 Holiday Hootenanny this Saturday to see my friend Jon in Tampa if I fly back. Lots of good bands for that one but gotta put friends ahead of concerts.

CARDIFF SURF SCULPTURE EARNS ARCHITECTURAL 'ONION'

2007-12-04T13:10:00.001-08:00

This is well deserved!

MAINSTREAM MEDIA REPORT - NORTH COUNTY TIMES SD

SURF SCULPTURE EARNS ARCHITECTURAL 'ONION'

Surfer sculpture, Cottonwood Creek, Stone Bistro among Orchids, Onions awards

By: GARY WARTH - North County Times

SAN DIEGO - Encinitas was 1-1 at this year's Orchids and Onions awards ceremony, while Stone Brewery in Escondido proved to be the people's favorite design of 2007.

North County surfers who have for the last year ridiculed the Cardiff sculpture "The Magic Carpet Ride" can feel some justification in knowing that the voting members of the San Diego Architectural Foundation agreed with them. The foundation handed the sculpture an Onion at Friday night's ceremonies at the Stephen and Mary Birch North Park Theater in San Diego.

Judges found Encinitas more on the mark with its design for Cottonwood Creek Park, which earned the city an Orchid.

The nonprofit architectural foundation each year recognizes designs in landscaping, historical preservation, sustainability and other categories with either an Orchid for praiseworthy work or an Onion for unimaginative, uninspired or just plan ugly creations.

As usual, most of the Onion recipients did not attend to pick up their awards. In presenting an Onion for "The Magic Carpet Ride," the evening's host announced it would be picked up by "Anna Nominous."

The surfer sculpture was described as being met with "waves of criticism."

"The Magic Carpet Ride," created by Mount San Jacinto College professor Matthew Antichevich, sits at Chesterfield Drive and South Coast Highway 101. The bronze sculpture depicts a young surfer with outstretched arms. Flesh-and-blood surfers have criticized the pose as unrealistic and effeminate, and one anonymous critic expressed that sentiment by dressing the sculpture in a bikini earlier this year.

Ozzy and Rob Zombie

2007-12-03T09:25:00.000-08:00

Got free tickets from Mike Doud so he and two friends rode along with me to the San Diego Sports Arena (IE: IpayOne Center, etc., etc.) Rob Zombie is pretty good...Puts on a great show..He's one morbid guy with all of the horror films (including his own) playing on the two side screens.

Ozzy on the other hand was pretty amazing. He's old looking, moves around like an old guy, but belts out the old classics and a few new ones too. Even though we were pretty darned close (just above floor level) my camera phone still took bad pictures. Time for a better one! I would have never paid $70 plus for these tickets this day and age, but free always means I'll go.

Warren Miller's Playground

2007-11-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

Went with Rich, Stephanie, and Amanda to see the new movie by Warren Miller. I usually stick to surf movies but this was insane...the heliskiing and the para gliding skiers are just nuts. Makes me want to get up and ride pretty soon!

Machuchas Garden's Puerto Rico

2007-11-27T15:11:00.000-08:00

These three shots were from the north east side (going west of San Juan) of Puerto Rico. Taken around Christmas of 94 or 95.

Del Mar Thanksgiving Week Surf

2007-11-19T10:37:00.000-08:00

Surfed today with both Ryan's and almost nobody for the first hour today...Very fun lefts and right..New Quad fish is working well. Got this ok shot today on surfshot.com.

DI, Agent Orange, and The MIsfits

2007-11-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Went with Mike Doud and a couple of his buddies to see DI, Agent Orange and the Misfits at the SOMA in Point Loma last night. Agent Orange was unreal as always, and the Misfits had a great show. I have to admit I never saw them because Glenn Danzig wasn't in the band (but I had seen him a couple of times in the early 90's) but I was pleasantly surprised. The old and new music was pretty insane. I'd see them again for sure.

Trilogy Movie

2007-11-10T07:12:00.000-08:00

Went with Ryan Zimmerman, Max, Rich, and his granddaughter and Mark Parker's daughter to this movie. It was a pretty good Billabong movie with some great surfing. Always dig catching the surf movies at the La Paloma Theater.

Woody Car Limousine

2007-10-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

This is kinda cheesy and cool at the same time. A fake super long stretched limo woody car with a board on top. The kooky thing is that the fins are backwards so that makes me think the person who thought it out doesn't surf. This was as we were waiting to get our bags checked on the way to Las Vegas in the San Diego Airport.

Fun Amidst the Fires...

2007-10-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

So this place is literally on fire and on Monday we just decided to head to chuck e cheeses to get out of the smoke. Tuesday was worse, Wednesday was a little better, and I had to work. Today I surfed Scripps and that was pretty fun. Air quality everywhere is pretty bad but on the ocean, slightly better. Hoping to catch some nw swell tomorrow and hoping this place isn't so smokey. Very sad how many people lost their homes and a few lost their lives.

Out of all of this though it was really cool to catch the kids for a couple of days the whole day and put in some good family time. Spent part of the day last thursday in Evan's preschool class and that was a lot of fun, and went to Riley's speech therapy with her yesterday.

Some Random Shots of Vegas

2007-10-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

Fall Pictures of the kids

2007-10-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas, Bodies Exhibit, Blue Man Group, and Tomorrow/Today Surf Movie

2007-10-15T22:17:00.000-07:00

Took Cheryl to Vegas for her birthday and we had a good time. Saw The Blue Man Group and the Bodies Exhibition and both were very cool. Saw the Transworld Surf movie Tomorrow/Today tonight and it was a really good movie. Only $5 at the Art Museum in La Jolla!

The Stained Glass Saints

2007-09-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

Took Cheryl to Thrusters to see Casey's other band, The Stained Glass Saints. It was a good show. Although it's a tiny venue it was cool to see Casey in his new band. Great sounding band. I hope his other band Liquid Image is able to play a few gigs here and there too.

Random Shots

2007-09-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

Some random shots, including a few of Joey Taylor trying to fit into the kids playhouse and almost imploding the walls.