...and the beat goes on

Movember 2011 - 30 Days in Less Than 2 Minutes

2011-11-30T17:56:00.001-05:00

I've completed my very first Movember! It was itchy. At times, bothersome. But the minor discomforts are nothing when I know that in my own scruffy little way I've made people aware that we can be prepared to battle a disease.

Please make your donations by following this LINK.
  
GTGL8RZ!

Toronto Zombie Walk 2011

2011-10-30T21:33:00.002-04:00

Zombie Walk 2011, a set on Flickr.

It took me about a week to finally recover my strength after a gut-wrenching encounter with a mob of the undead. It is just in time for Halloween to share the evidence of the number of brain-hungry Torontonians to everyone. It did not rain this time like last year and, as always, the route has been changed to involve a part of Chinatown. The growling walkers have doubled and younger gray matter-hungry ones have surfaced, even infants. It is not easy to keep myself from retching but the stench of this yearly brush with the zombies is something I will always look forward to.

GTGL8RZ!

The Day Has Come! (Charice's One Day Music Video is out!)

2011-07-27T23:26:00.001-04:00

After too many weeks of anticipation, it's finally here. No flashy CGIs and not a microsecond of sex and violence. It's just pure, clean and inspiring music from Charice. Enjoy!

The video link is from HollywoodLife.com
GTGL8RZ!

Toronto Pride 2011 (You Belong)

2011-07-14T23:51:00.005-04:00

Another great Pride Week has passed. For the Sunday parade, we chose to stay at the southwest corner of Yonge and College, which turned out to be a better choice if you plan to see the whole event without worrying about acquiring melanoma or, worse, full on sweat stains on your white capris. It was a little challenging though to take good pics of the revelers given the amount of the security's bald spots blocking our view.

It could well be our location, being close to the end of the parade, but this year's march was not as loud and shocking as the previous year. I was half expecting a harsh reaction towards the absence of the current Toronto mayor in the celebrations so it was not a surprise to see banners mocking the man and a few Rob Ford masks scattered all over. He could have chosen to join the march but, in my opinion, that would have resulted in a less than peaceful pillow fight. So I think he made the right decision to stay as far away as he can from all the noise until the circle of reality comes back around next year.

I saw a few familiar faces marching again, which proves that no matter how political the, supposedly, accepting and tolerant pride events get, there would be people who would be out there just to get a chance to say to the whole world that it's okay to be different; that it's alright to be vulnerable than be caged; that everybody belongs no matter who they are or what they aspire to be.

For the complete gallery CLICK HERE

GTGL8RZ!

Charice's Far As The Sky Video

2011-07-08T00:15:00.001-04:00

Another music video of Charice's new song "Far As The Sky." This is currently the theme song for a Japanese TV show about a forensic pathologist entitled "Bull Doctor."

I love the use of the Intervalometer here and Charice's stiletto heels.

The video was uploaded under the YouTube account of Warner Music Japan.

GTGL8RZ!

In A Better World, Are We?

2011-05-22T23:37:00.002-04:00

I had a hard time accepting the fact that Incendies did not get the Oscar it deserved. But after watching "In A Better World," I understand now. This flick had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The subtleties were very provocative. The voyeur-type of cinematography added to the snowballing emotional intensity. One major part that the movie did really well was to put closure on hard-hitting issues. If there is a theatre near you that does second runs, it's worth the walk and the sticky floors.

GTGL8RZ!

Mine's not a Kingsize

2011-05-15T22:46:00.004-04:00

I've been a fan of Rihanna since the SOS days and it's always nice when she comes up with a "torch song" like this.

This is dedicated to couples who still live together and share one bed but have lost the bedroom's soul. In other words, the romance had a slow death. Really, it's not the size of the bedroom or the size of the actual bed that matters. Who needs a "king size" when you sleep with a snoring log? I'd rather sweat it out on a "single" where my presence is never ignored.

I'm not from California but you get the idea? ;)

I found a great instrumental thru this page and tweaked the pitch a little bit:

TheHMKARAOKEMC

GTGL8RZ!

Sakura 2011

2011-05-08T21:51:00.002-04:00

Sakura 2011, a set on Flickr.

Due to the extended cold weather, this year's delicate buds waited for another 2 weeks to bloom. Not all of the trees have opened buds yet though so I'm guessing by the middle of next week, if the temperature does not go lower than 14 C, the blooms will peak.

As always, I never learn to go in the morning for softer lighting so I had to wait for the late afternoon sun for a less than harsh shadow. It also becomes a challenge to get a solitary tree shot without any eager hobbyist clicking around it so I have to think of how a picture will be cropped after.

Other people, of course, brought their cars so there was bumper to bumper traffic going to the park. It's always best to go by public transit or pedal power. I was there for less than 2 hours, got the shots that I wanted and breezed through the crowd to go out.

Maybe I'll try again next week or if not, at least there's something to look forward to again next year.

GTGL8RZ!

She's Always A Woman Cover

2011-05-07T22:34:00.002-04:00

For the only woman who's put up with all my angst and unattainable dreams. A 3-minute imperfect video isn't enough to express everything but I made this with a lot of love.

Happy Mothers' Day, Nanay!

Original song by Billy Joel

GTGL8RZ!

Snowballing

2011-05-01T16:40:00.000-04:00

I finally had the time to unbox my new toy. After staring at it for several weeks contemplating if my purchase was necessary, I've convinced myself that a 50% discount for this gadget is worth the extra night of just canned tuna and rice for dinner.

Music by Nic Bommarito "Hymn for 200 Sugar Packets"

GTGL8RZ!

It Is OK To Sing About It!

2011-04-10T03:27:00.002-04:00

I had no clue that the balding, frantic lawyer who did this song on Harry's Law's Season Finale was the same Paul McCrane who appeared on Fame.

If you haven't seen Fame (The Original Movie) released in 1980, this song was actually sang by the character Montgomery, a young and openly gay aspiring actor. The theme is universal though. How many times have we dreamt of actually talking to our ultimate crush? How many make-believe dates have we booked?

I dedicate this song to the hopeful romantics who are in the verge of crossing over to extreme stalking. If all else fails, then it must be a sign to move on.

This cover was created using the following:
1.Canon T1i
2.Garageband
3.iTunes
4.iMovie

Ramune "Almost Epic" Fail

2011-03-29T07:06:00.000-04:00

I discovered a very interesting non-alcoholic beverage while vacationing in Montreal. I've never actually seen it in Toronto but that's partly because I never actively looked for it. But I'm guessing I'd probably find it in Spadina or in an Asian-operated convenience store.

If I were to describe the taste, it's similar to a "flavoured martini" without the actual alcohol zing. If they start selling an alcohol-based version of it, this would be perfect for people who cannot control their intake 'coz even sober guys would have to exert some extra effort just to open the bottle.

GTGL8RZ!

Unboxing Gary Fong

2011-02-19T21:24:00.000-05:00

Here's my unboxing video of Gary Fong's Light Sphere, Power Snoot and the Amber Dome. As mentioned in the video, you will save more if you just buy these accessories in local shops. I learned it the hard way by buying online. You are probably safe from the brokerage fee if you live in the U.S. I have yet to use the new toys but will definitely share my snaps as soon as I get the chance.

GTGL8RZ!

Granada

2011-02-13T18:57:00.002-05:00

Thank you Bruno Mars for such a tragic song for those broken-hearted who just wanna sleep through February 14. I will ride on the bandwagon with a massive grenade launcher in my backpack!

Obviously, this is not an official music video. For the cheesier original, CLICK HERE.

Granada
Uploaded by R_Q. - See the latest featured music videos.

Happy FREAKIN' Valentine's Day suckers!

GTGL8RZ!

6:59 PM, Once a Year

2011-02-06T13:52:00.000-05:00

It's a deafening explosion of contemporary art in one night. Even if you plan your trip, you will never get to see everything. I don't think I ever saw the "people's choice" winners for 2010, but I still enjoyed the ones that I got to experience. Yes, it's not just a "look-see" kinda exhibit. Most of the installations feed on the interaction with the people, which is why the whole experience is exhilarating. It's sad that there's only one night to enjoy this compendium of creativity and good taste; but then again, art is all over the city 24/7 waiting to be discovered.

Check the Nuit Blanche official website for the 2011 event.

For more of my pics, CLICK HERE.

GTGL8RZ!

Fierté Dans La Capitale

2011-01-23T22:11:00.002-05:00

It's not as big and as loud as the Toronto celebrations but it's great that we don't have to stand behind fences to enjoy that amazing day.

CLICK HERE for the link to the gallery on flickr.

GTGL8RZ!

Toronto Pride 2010

2011-01-12T00:13:00.004-05:00

Toronto Pride 2010
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

After 6 months of hibernation, I'm finally uploading most of the contents of my memory cards. It's been a busy 2010 but at least it's a nice way to reminisce and prepare for the next Pride event in Toronto. Enjoy!

CLICK HERE for the link to the gallery on flickr.

GTGL8RZ!

Doing The Right Thing

2011-01-07T21:28:00.010-05:00

Not very often do I find very effective PSA's; and when I do it's got to be shared with the rest of the world. Here is the ongoing TV spot by the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport:

GTGL8RZ!

365 Days of 2010

2011-01-01T23:41:00.009-05:00

This is a video compilation of my personal project on flickr:

It's "very" long but you can just put on your headphone, turn the volume up, close your eyes and enjoy the music from artists I discovered on AudioFarm.org:

Out Of Control (A Different Mix by no|REAKTION)

Stereofloat - Crashed

Grace - Zichk

bisk - lipstick

P.S.
The tags I used all appear in at least one picture in the compilation. Can you spot them?

Toronto Zombie Walk 2010

2010-10-31T20:28:00.003-04:00

IMG_1890_zw
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

A year has passed and the annual compendium of brain hungry corpses is here. I went with a friend who, unfortunately, succumbed to the infection of the undead. So I was left alone to finish the job. Once again, I captured the onslaught of the zombies...

For more pictures of the carnage CLICK HERE

I was lucky to get outta there alive. Until next year...

GTGL8RZ!

Toronto Fringe Candidates?

2010-10-11T22:43:00.007-04:00

shutternewbie 

Was flipping channels and got lured to what seemed like free airtime of unedited and one-take video clips of people running for the city's top post. It was a little odd but amusing. I had to check the Toronto Candidates List to see if what I was watching was just a sequence from "Air Farce Live." I was wrong. These people are absolutely running for city mayor.

Four of the so called, "fringe candidates," in my opinion, have more edge than the 4 more popular ones, in terms of "interestingness." I am in no way condoning them but their ideas might just be less crazy and less far-fetched than the frontrunners' platforms:

RATAN WADHWA

I found this 2006 article about this fedora-loving guy from Wapedia...

Ratan Wadhwa lived in Mumbai before moving to Canada. He is an actor and Charlie Chaplin impersonator, and the owner of Charlie's Flower Co. in Toronto. He first campaigned for Mayor of Toronto in 2003 at age 48, calling for legalized prostitution and cannabis, free condoms and viagra, and the creation of a red light district. He said that he was trying to develop political contacts rather than win the election, and speculated that he could manage a decent showing if enough people in the sex industry voted for him. He received 121 votes to place 43rd out of 44 candidates. He promoted much the same platform in 2006, and also called for increased helicopter surveillance and bullet-proof vests for police.

This year, he is advocating the construction of casinos and the creation of a red light district.

CLICK HERE for a short Q&A with him courtesy of CP24

(pic from CP24)

DAVID VALLANCE

I guess this guy has one of the most ambitious plans for the City of Toronto. Follow this LINK and judge for yourself.

To be fair, David's proposal is in Wikipedia.

Here is his Q&A courtesy of CP24.

CARMEN MACKLIN

Not sure why she is running but on the candidates list her address is at the Waverly Hotel in Spadina and she has Yahoo for email. In her video clip, she mentioned that when she becomes the mayor, she will be available to Torontonians almost all the time except when she has to take care of her mom.

JOSEPH PAMPENA

I am most intrigued by this candidate's look rather than his platform. He appears to have a visual impairment, if not blind, and just kept on yapping about "running the city like a PR office."

CLICK HERE for an article about him on The Star.

(pic from Insidetorontovotes)

Here is the Q&A by CP24.

It's good to know that there are other choices in the Toronto Mayoralty race aside from the four, supposedly, frontrunners. The other, not so loud, candidates might not be better choices to run the city but at least they are doing "something" for it...or they are trying to.

GTGL8RZ!

My Charice Experience

2010-06-05T20:51:00.003-04:00

Crazy Fans
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

I knew I was gonna be late but I headed to the Eaton Centre anyway. The mini-concert was set at 6 pm and I got there 2 minutes before that. I wasn’t expecting anything and even prepared myself not to see her. I thought maybe I can just do video interviews with the fans that showed up.

Although it was hard to wade through all the people in the mall, my years of experience in flea markets and Boxing Day shopping prepared me for it. Fortunately, there were some technical difficulties on the stage so I had time to be as close to the stage as I could. I am a little vertically-challenged so I had to extend my arms above my head to record her performance in my SLR. I couldn’t really check the viewfinder and the display screen of the cam so I had to rely on my instincts.

Here is a video of what I got. I made it into snippets as most of what I recorded were bald spots and sweaty arms holding cameras:

I am happy I got to experience her live although I’m a little disappointed that I couldn’t get there earlier. Hopefully she comes back for a concert and hopefully I can get time off from work when that happens.

GTGL8RZ!

Read the Fine Print...Always

2010-05-05T21:59:00.003-04:00

Day 125: May 05/2010
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

To those who received this free $100 AdWords card, please read the "terms and conditions" at the back of the letter that came with the brochure.

Part of it says: ...advertisers will need to suspend their ads if they do not wish to receive additional charges beyond the free credit amount...

Enjoy and happy blogging!

GTGL8RZ!

Don't Let Your PayPal Get Phished

2010-03-24T23:39:00.008-04:00

In a span of a week I received about 5 emails urging me to check my PayPal account for a certain security breach. I'm just so lucky that it's become a routine to check the "from" section of every email that I get...even the spam ones. I did some screen shots of one of the emails, which I hope can help others be less gullible and stop them from clicking away. Of course, if you don't have a PayPal account, you don't have to worry about anything.

If you look closely, the FROM section has a dubious sounding email address, which PayPal would never ever use...

DON'T click on any links in that email. But, if ever you click on the link that was provided, you will be redirected to this page, which looks almost exactly like the real thing:

DON'T ever log in! You will notice that the URL in the address bar does not start with (www.paypal.com). Also, the tabs and links on the page are unclickable. The phishers have only one goal, which is to get you to log in.

It's a cruel world and one way to survive is not to be overly trustful.

GTGL8RZ!

Homeless But Not Forgotten

2010-01-30T20:28:00.004-05:00

Day 30: Jan 30/2010
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

Did some window shopping earlier and had the urge to light up outside the mall. I rediscovered this memorial, which has probably been there for years, but I never really stopped and actually checked the list.

The memorial had this text posted:

This list includes more than 600 names of men, women, and children who have lived and died on the streets of Toronto as a diect result of homelessness. Stop, pause, and remember all of these people and the many more who continue to struggle as they live on our streets. Then call your local city councillor, the Mayor, your MPP and your MP. Help solve the homelessness disaster.

GTGL8RZ!

Coronary in a Box

2009-12-06T19:11:00.004-05:00

I've recently graduated from the regular poutine to the more "gourmet." The best so far is from Smoke's Poutinerie. I tried the curry chicken and pulled pork varieties. The place is accessible and clean. It seemed like the one on Dundas is mainly for take-outs, but they have a long side table for those who can't wait to quench the craving. After all, it should be eaten straight from the frier. They don't have seats though, which is fine if you're not planning on having 6 boxes of poutine on your own. The packaging is thicker than the usual chinese take-out boxes and the large box can actually be shared with 1 or 2 more people, unless you have Chris Farley's appetite. I've never been to the one on Adelaide but I was told it's more of a sit-down kinda place. They also have a roving poutine van, which may well be an alternative to the usual BBQ in the summer.

Obviously, this type of food is not for the ones on limited daily caloric intake. Easily, it may have about 1000 calories per small box, but for the taste and comfort , it's worth a try.

GTGL8RZ!

Pulling Weeds

2009-11-22T12:49:00.003-05:00

Something's very odd when the highlight of a commercial movie is a buck naked Gerard Butler. Don't get me wrong, this is like the scalded skin at the roof of your mouth that you'd keep on tounging 'til you're next chai latte burn. Law Abiding Citizen had the potential to be a good movie, only if star power would suffice. Unfortunately, that's not enough.

(SPOILER ALERT...if you don't care, then read on...)

The movie's storyline is not at all unique, although I liked the fact that they explored how a topnotch hired killer defines "an eye, for an eye;" and that's where all the loopholes and crazy set-ups stem from.

For example, the movie begins with the massacre of Clyde's family and the ensuing legal battle. Towards the middle of the film, we learn that instead of Clyde just doing vigilante work, he is, after all, a soulless, high profile killer/spy. Now, if he's so cunning and sly, how can two crackheads with a knife and baseball bat subdue him? How can he miss checking who's outside the door before he opened it? Were the deaths of his wife and daughter just an excuse to bully the law? Was this crime part of his plan as well? We will never know because the movie thrives on the "viewers' perspective" kinda style.

Clyde had 10 years to carefully plan his revenge. He must've had the power to see the future, but then again, he missed the part where he bites the dust unintentionally, so there goes the fantasy/sci-fi twist. There's a part of me that wanted him to succeed just so he can bitch slap District Attorney Rice, because, for me, Rice actually is the villain in a very subtle way.

In the movie, the American judicial system was portrayed as a well-bred horse with permanent blinders, which, when given a chance to roam free, would forget it's entire purpose and just continue running 'til it can't run anymore. The movie also makes you wonder if collateral deaths can be compared to swatting black flies that hover around your pecan pie or maybe pulling weeds to give way to hyacinth bulbs.

Another warning for the highly critical. The screenwriter/s just had to bluntly force the title of the movie in the dialogue, which almost made me barf. Don't you hate it when they do that?

It's not entirely a bad flick. If you really have nothing to do, I recommend watching it instead of spending your good money on cheesy 2012 (and I'm not even spending time to give you a link for that one).

GTGL8RZ!

Tetsuwan Atomu

2009-11-01T23:15:00.004-05:00

This is definitely not the best movie ever but I sure was pleasantly surprised, especially with the quality of the animation. This would have been better if they released it in 3D or IMAX. They totally revamped the birth of Astro Boy and the setting is not in 2030 Tokyo. Too bad, WALL-E already came out with a similar plot, but true fans will be very happy with this version, which obviously sets itself up for a sequel.

I read reviews on the movie before I saw it and they were ranting that it's totally for kids and that adults should get multiple shots of espresso before bringing their kids to see it. Well, it is, of course, not Family Guy and it's supposed to be a little clean. Although, if you think about it, a violent death of a child (Toby's), isn't exactly kid-friendly. The 80's series was a little morbid and dark. I dunno if you will remember an episode where Robio and Robiette get mashed between 2 race cars; now, that's a little graphic for kids.

When I saw the movie, A.I., I thought the idea resembled the original Astro Boy sans the artillery. They have the same themes; that of tragedy and loss, acceptance and deliverance, and so many others. Well, one can argue that they're obviously modern versions of Pinocchio, which I don't contest.

For those who think that this is a big political allegory, well, it is...if you think that Spongebob can potentially be the best president.

I thought the voice casting was good, particularly that of Nick Cage as Doctor Tenma and Nathan Lane as Hamegg. It was just a little weird that they presented Toby as a preadolescent, rather than younger. I think the original Toby was probably 7 or 8 years old. They did not keep the high-pitched voice from the original, so you'll be less than amused if you're expecting a femme boy. So yeah, in spite of the long and curly eyelashes, being shirtless with black tights and red boots, the awkward gait and perkiness, Astro Boy is not gay because he is a freakin' robot. Hmmm...a gay icon maybe?

Here's a teaser for those who are interested:

GTGL8RZ!

The Undead Are Back!

2009-10-25T18:23:00.004-04:00

IMG_7862_zombiewalk09
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

It has been a year since I received the antidote to stop me from becoming fully infected. I'm on my way to full recovery but the temptation of shooting the undead still has its tight grip on me. So, in spite of the chilly weather and the risk of being maligned because of this odd addiction, I loaded my gear and headed to the supposed pit stop of the howling mob.

I positioned myself where the Containment Team was and aimed my equipment to get some perfect headshots of the zombies...

Here's the evidence of last Saturday's bloodbath...

It was a successful ambush, considering the enormous amount of the soulless corpses that attacked. They will be back next year and I will be ready.

To see more pics of the bloodbath, CLICK HERE.

GTGL8RZ!

AIDSphobic

2009-08-25T20:24:00.003-04:00

It was a pretty good day until I stumbled on this article about a very appalling incident in Bangkok:

HIV activist Nicholas Snow catches abusive Bangkok neighbour on video
by Sylvia Tan

Nicholas Snow, who came out publicly about being HIV-positive last year, captures and shares his traumatic experience of being verbally accosted by a neighbour about the former's HIV status last night on video.

Nicholas Snow, a Bangkok-based journalist who publicly disclosed his HIV-positive status in an exclusive interview with Fridae in October last year, was verbally accosted by his neighbour at his Bangkok apartment on the evening of Aug 24.

In a four and a half minute video uploaded on Youtube, the unnamed neighbour - a young Thai man - was seen picking up a knife and attempting to throw several objects at Snow as he yelled across the hallway about Snow's self-disclosure of his HIV status in a “book” (magazine) and on a gay personals web site.

Snow, who is gay, said his neighbour began verbally abusing him just as he was returning home. As the tirade did not stop after Snow had closed his door to his apartment, he picked up his video camera from inside his apartment and opened the door to film his neighbour.

The exchange went:

“I will not be harassed because I have HIV. You are not allowed to treat your neigbhours this way.”

“I don’t want friendly with people with HIV,” said the neighbour when Snow said that he's only being friendly when he greets him or others in the building.

When Snow warned his neighbour that the video would be posted on the Internet, he was told: “I don’t care. You can put it in the newspaper.”

As the tirade went on, Snow retreated into his apartment and revealed that he believes that his neigbour had come to know of his HIV-positive status from his profile on a gay personals website. On the same day, someone has sent him a message asking him to “die” or “go back to (his) own country.” The sender had also correctly identified the name of his apartment building. Snow added that he recognised the apartment, in which the photos on the profile were taken, to be similar to his own apartment.

He further explained that the will post the video on the Internet as an “example of stigma and discrimination that exist around HIV and AIDS.”

“I sorta invited stigma and discrimination to come my way because I wanted to stand up against it.”

Last year, Snow founded ActionEqualsLife.com, a social networking web site created to promote HIV/AIDS awareness, champion "human rights for all" and support equality for all LGBT people.

He also wants to stress that the “behaviour of the individual in no way represents the majority of loving, accepting, hospitable Thai citizens and expats who live in Thailand. However, HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination is prevalent throughout Asia and beyond.”

I guess I will never really feel the gravity of living with HIV/AIDS until I'm actually on the receiving end of such attacks. I dunno the circumstances that led to this incident but I know for sure that this is an unacceptable way of dealing with the issue at hand. Who knows, maybe the Thai guy had a thing with Nicholas and his world crumbled upon learning of his predicament. Or maybe he's just a slob who doesn't have anything productive to do than make people's lives miserable.

Oh well, life goes on...and ignorant people continue to dwell...

Here are some stats for those who are interested:

People living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 33.0 million
Adults living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 30.8 million
Women living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 15.5 million
Children living with HIV/AIDS in 2007 2.0 million
People newly infected with HIV in 2007 2.7 million
Children newly infected with HIV in 2007 0.37 million
AIDS deaths in 2007 2.0 million
Child AIDS deaths in 2007 0.27 million

More than 25 million people have died of AIDS since 1981.

Africa has 11.6 million AIDS orphans.

At the end of 2007, women accounted for 50% of all adults living with HIV worldwide, and for 59% in sub-Saharan Africa.

Young people (under 25 years old) account for half of all new HIV infections worldwide.

In developing and transitional countries, 9.7 million people are in immediate need of life-saving AIDS drugs; of these, only 2.99 million (31%) are receiving the drugs.

GTGL8RZ!

Wonder Woman Tattoo

2009-08-09T16:58:00.005-04:00

wonder woman tats
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

Met up with friends at the Old Nick pub last night and one of them was smiling from ear to ear. He got Lynda Carter to sign his leg over an existing Wonder Woman emblem tattoo. And, of course, as a true fan would do, he had it tattooed.

I guess it was only a matter of the stars' alignment. It was meant to happen. I would do the same thing...but I would go the extra mile and insure my tattooed limb.

GTGL8RZ!

RIP

2009-07-27T20:41:00.005-04:00

She seemed restless as portrayed on TV.

I hope her family finds peace.

RIP Alexis Cohen.

For the story on what happened, CLICK HERE.

Found this tribute for her, uploaded after her rant on AI:

GTGL8RZ!

What the "TOOT"?

2009-07-13T23:51:00.007-04:00

I find it amusing that a group of researchers have actually spent time studying "swearing" as a factor that could reduce physical pain. It is pretty obvious that it is part of the fight-or-flight response and I don't think swearing would do any good if you actually cut your finger off compared to just submerging it in ice water.

Here's the actual abstract of the research:

Here's one of the researchers trying to explain the results of the study:

Now, just for pure amusement...here's Christian Bale and Napoleon Dynamite in a heated discussion...

GTGL8RZ!

Can't Stop, Won't Stop: Toronto Pride Celebration 2009

2009-07-01T19:37:00.007-04:00

IMG_7088_pride_2009
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

How do you take great pictures in an event if you don't have a press pass? Well, you don't.

It's hard enough to focus on moving subjects, and when I had to stay outside the barriers during the pride parade, it made it even more of a challenge. But I managed to take some quick snaps in between a puffy mane of a shemale and a seven-footer princess.

It was, mostly, a wet celebration but spirits were high as always. Each year, a large number of people come to share with the fun but I do hope all the bright lights and deafening music won't make us forget of why there's even such a celebration.

To see more pics...CLICK HERE

GTGL8RZ!

yellow cabs everywhere...

2009-05-23T20:39:00.004-04:00

Yellow cabs all over..
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

It's so nice to have some change of air once in a while. It's not always cheap but it's worth every penny.

I spent a few days in big old NYC. Thanks to a very accommodating buddy, I didn't have to pay for a warm bed and pillow. I played the tourist role and went around Manhattan with my backpack and SLR. The web of rail and bus lines there is overwhelming compared to the simple loops in Toronto. I'm so frugal that there's no chance that I'd take a yellow cab to do my sight-seeing. With the help of hopstop, I completed my itinerary in no time. The nice weather helped me maximize the limited time I have to get some decent shots of the city as well.

There's just one thing though that I couldn't help but notice during this trip. The trash was just everywhere...and, I mean, everywhere. I guess it makes for good urban decay shots. But I never got to do any of that. I was either too busy dodging cars at crosswalks or trying to look local in Brooklyn (I don't even know what I mean by that...but anyway...).

I need to go back and stay longer.

GTGL8RZ!

Sabong

2009-02-22T13:16:00.003-05:00

Sabong
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

Sabong

A pile of cock cages (not the ones you can buy in sex shops) greeted me as I turned on the tube a few nights ago and caught on the local news broadcast. They were presumably used to keep black-feathered gladiators before a tournament.

Yes, apparently cockfighting has been going on in rural Ontario. I was not at all surprised of these activities as I grew up where such cruelty is considered a sport, and, in fact, part of the tradition. There are even cock derbies advertised everywhere back in the P.I. I wasn't even surprised that some "kababayans" were part of it. What I was more surprised about is the fact that the people behind the proliferation of an illegal assembly have only been busted now, after probably so many years of doping on chicken carnage. If such obvious unacceptable meetings can go on for so long without ever getting noticed, how else would more proliferative form of illegal gambling be stopped around here?

The most disturbing part of the news is that after seizing the live cocks from the barn, the authorities had them "euthanized." Now, that doesn't sound so far-off from the death sentence of the cockpit. Anyone care for some KFC?

To read more on this, CLICK HERE.

GTGL8RZ!

14 Stations to Number 1

2009-01-24T11:47:00.000-05:00

cracks
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

I had an almost tragic accident a couple of days ago and it involved the subway and a pair of tight long johns.

One of the very basic training I got from nursery school is to empty my bladder before going on a long trip. That particularly cold day, I deliberately ignored my conscience and went down the TTC rails with a full amber juice bag. As soon as I sat down and the subway doors closed, I felt the sudden force of uncontrollable urge to open the dam. My tight thermals were only good for the cold and now served as compression stockings, squeezing my internal organs in. I was in dire need of help. I concentrated on slowly standing up, hoping that the lighter pressure would slow down the process...and it did.

I ran up the next station hoping to find a room to swat the urge. Unfortunately, I just got lost in the large station and nobody really knew where the washrooms are. So I got on another train hoping to see a sign of salvation in the next stop. To add insult to injury, the coach I was on was traveling at a speed slower than a seniors' parade. We finally reached a stop where I thought I'm more familiar with. I got off, ran up the stairs and frantically looked for any stick figures sign pointing to a panic room. And there was none. So I went out of the station, ignored the red lights and ran towards heaven...the mall. I spent the next few seconds diluting a blue chemsearch block.

There are several "I should've" moments that evening, but someone needs to experience it for others not to emulate, right? Or maybe I'm just too weak to face the fact that I did some stupid decisions, so crucify me if you will.

For really lazy people who wants everything easy, CLICK HERE.

GTGL8RZ!

What is there to do on a freezing weekend?

2009-01-17T20:04:00.007-05:00

watching the snowstorm 01
Originally uploaded by shutternewbie 

It's been in the minus teens again for the past couple of days and it's a reminder that I'm still in North America every morning as I try to force my body out of bed. People tell me that I'm never gonna get used to the cold but I can make the whole experience less of a hassle. Of course, I'm not going out to run around the oval just across from here. That's never gonna happen!

There are more fun things to do when it's freezing out without even spending a penny:

1. If you have one of those crappy DVDs that you never really bought coz it came free with a new TV or player, try watching it again with the "Director's Commentary" on. Should be interesting, especially if the director sounds so convinced that a shot was amazing, when in fact, it's just a close up of a butt zit.

2. If you're feeling naughty and have been thinking of getting back at an embarrassing prank an old pal did to you, I have a nasty idea. Download a pic from his facebook then upload and start an ad on craigslist's missed connections that says something like "are you the guy who did not flush the toilet after a big dump in the mall?" That should teach him a lesson, and I'm pretty sure you'll get more than a handful of replies. That should keep u busy in the cold night.

3. Dance, dance, dance...this always keeps me warm. To get you started, here's a vid inspired by a song from Jerry Springer, The Opera:

(vid courtesy of BGDVA)

GTGL8RZ!

Dead Men Walking

2008-10-26T19:11:00.016-04:00

I woke up early on a Sunday. I've been anticipating this annual event ever since I missed it last year and the years before that. A bit comfy in my cocoon and high-strung then, plus I never really checked what's going on and when it's going on in the city. Couldn't wait till 3 pm for the Zombie Walk so I spent the hours before that contemplating on whether I should go as an undead Japanese school girl or Liza Minelli on formaldehyde. Wait, Liza is not dead, but she's definitely on formaline. 'Nuff of that crap.

I took the subway to Bathurst and Bloor and walked down to Queen street, just so I won't miss the group as they trek northwards. I was prepared, grande Chai lattè on one hand and my bestfriend B&H on the other. Along the way I met some biohazard control team making sure uninformed people won't get infected, although for sure they got the evil bug before the day ended. I got there right when the zombies were walking out of the Trinity Bellwoods Park. I remember taking my cam out of the bag to shoot the first batches of the undead and then the rest that followed are all now just a blur as I got sprayed by a streaming uncoagulated goo coming out of a jawless zombie. The pictures speak for themselves.

Of course, I was just channelling a diluted version of Harry Mason. It was fun, fun, fun! Being with creative people even for just a few hours, inspires me to do better in what I do, or I think I do. Maybe next year I'll fold and come up with a gory alter ego. But seriously, I was so lucky I got to experience this unique event.

To see more pics, click HERE

GTGL8RZ!

Zombies in Toronto

2008-10-12T20:21:00.004-04:00

Found these bunch of gyrating and moaning infected Torontonians during the Nuit Blanche 2008. I got to College Park early that evening and the number getting infected was increasing as the night progressed. I had to quickly get some shots as the stench of the living dead and human carnage was unbelievable.

About a week from now, the annual Zombie Walk will happen, so this is a perfect primer for a bigger convention of crazy and fun people. I have not actually attended since I moved here but I will definitely not miss this one and I'm seriously considering showing up as a bloated and beat-up piñata.

More pics here...

GTGL8RZ!

Inukshook

2008-09-30T22:02:00.004-04:00

It's my third time in Ottawa and, as before, I discovered something new about the city.

Just near the lake in Parliament hill is what they call "Inukshook" art exhibit. It's a very unique installation as the stone arts get naturally toppled by the water current, so every year the view changes. I found just one person completing his addition to the exhibit when I went there. It's basically uneven rocks and stones balanced on top of each other. Some of them form recognizable images and some simply form random images that looked great even if I din't know what they represent, although they will all look like phallic symbols if you haven't had sex in a while.

The backdrop of the sun's reflection on moving water looked like flowing gold in blue satin sheets. The lakeview looked a bit like the beaches in Toronto sans the rowdy crowd and the over-enterprising kiosks. The only downer with the place is that a herd of geese controls the area and the droppings were just everywhere. It's not too bad if you don't mind getting poop tokens from Ottawa.

GTGL8RZ!

Where are the rickshaws when you need them?

2008-09-25T21:41:00.005-04:00

Had a good cardio workout today courtesy of the TTC.

I was on my regular home route when the choppy PA announced that the subway trip ends in Lawrence, seven stations away from my stop. Oohweeh! I knew right there and then that I would have to go on foot rather than wait in the long line for the buses and bask in post-work stench. So together with hundreds of 9 to 5 people, I trekked the busy Yonge street and spent the next 2 hours dragging my bum and listening to Moby.

Inbetween Davisville and St. Clair, I was wishing rickshaws would show up. Obviously, cabs were all flagged and the full shuttle buses were not even options at that time. But then again, I made it home without even cussing at the subway service, which I should be doing now but, I guess, other people have blogged about it too many times before, plus I'm too preoccupied with Survivor Gabon and Grey's Anatomy season openers.

I'm going to review the alternative routes in the subway system map after primetime TV, which I think is the best way to deal with emergencies like this, especially when there are no other cheap commuter options to go around the city. Or maybe I should buy a lottery ticket and win some bucks for a heli.

GTGL8RZ!

Summer's over....at least for this year

2008-09-23T20:14:00.004-04:00

For all the summer-hungry people, it's now officially okay to mourn. Yes, chilly nights are back and flip-flops will be limited to just the laundry room. It's a welcome respite for some, but hell for those with tons of allergies. Breezy and dusky, thats how most days will be, at least, until we see some signs of the inevitable snow.

Although I'm not at all a cold weather-person, I'm looking forward to the change in people interactions. For some reason, folks, or at least the ones in Toronto, shift their people skills into low gear when the weather is cooler. I'm pretty sure it's physiological but I find it amusing that the colors of fall mirror people's dispositions.

Did I mention new coat-hunting is on?

GTGL8RZ!

I Can Breathe Now

2008-09-09T20:31:00.006-04:00

The clutches of hatred and apathy
slowly drained my soul.
I almost lost the ability
to see beauty around me;
I almost gave up
on things that make me smile

The shards of broken promises
deeply struck my heart.
I almost choke on dark
memories of years past;
I almost drowned from
the deep abyss that is
my sorrow.

Then I started living each day
as it comes and handed reign
over my life to the angels and fairies
of lost loves.
Furtive whispers, I heard;
Let go, the voices chanted,
to which I humbly obliged.

I stretched my whole being and
threw myself to the dark recesses
of the unknown future and waited
for the big splash.

I felt nothing but a gush of sudden
realization that I am still alive despite
the lethal blows of heartaches.

My body began to gloriously tingle
from the warmth emanating
from within.
I am breathing again;
Calm and without restraint.

_________________________________________

Unified: Toronto Pride March 2008

2008-07-09T22:31:00.005-04:00

The noise has come and gone but I'm still feeling the crazy vibe of last Pride's celebrations. In the previous years, I was one of thousands outside the barricades who waited for hours, burnt their skins, and developed stiff necks just to see what the annual Pride festivity was all about.

I am adamant about blind sloganeering. It's like a Jew singing Christmas carols or a diabetic on a diet of Krispy Kremes. The Pride parade is more than just people running around to get noticed. A grand sloganeering march as it may seem, but it's the kind where you really feel that the cause is genuine even when it's bundled with a technicolor dreamcoat. I was fortunate enough to witness this year's parade on a more intimate level. I was running around taking shots of the "flambiest" of the flamboyants but I truly felt the difference in going out and giving support to the "fabulous" community. Yes, anti-homophobia laws are present in Canada. But the struggle for equality doesn't stop there and all these festivities will not reach fruition if the courage to be seen and heard dies down after all the cheers.

I believe that within the gay community itself, a common goal is still wanting. The "Unified" theme this year absolutely captured what people should bear in mind; that a flock of flamencos can trample a giant boar only if they dance to the same tune.

For the complete 2008 Sunday Pride March gallery, CLICK HERE.

GTGL8RZ!

Toronto Dyke March

2008-07-05T14:42:00.005-04:00

I just finished uploading the last batch of pics for last weekend's Pride celebrations. It took me a week to sort everything out and do some basic postprocessing. Sometimes I wish I'm doing this full time, instead of my day job. But then again, the day job pays the bills, so I can't complain, at least for now.

This particular SET was taken last Saturday, June 28. I've never actually attended the Dyke March since I moved here in Toronto so it's something new to me, plus the blaring boobies were a little too much to handle. Weather forecast was not so good for that day, but, fortunately, not a drop of sky juice trickled to dampen the excited crowd and marchers. The organizers probably were too concerned about the no-show precipitation that the whole march was actually done in about 40 minutes or less. Barricades were not completely set-up so it's pretty much a free-for-all, feel like a paparazzi, and a crazy click-happy day for everyone. 'Twas generally fun but I found it too quick; almost like sniffing old poppers at a friend's house party.

[Image also appears on NowPublic]

Click HERE for the complete Dyke March gallery.

GTGL8RZ!

Pedicab, Canadian style

2008-06-11T00:10:00.006-04:00

An ongoing free pedicab ride program is being offered in the Toronto downtown core to boost a greener lifestyle this summer. It seems like a very noble idea but I think that if one needs to travel for only a few blocks, walking is the better alternative.

[vid from TorontoStarVideo]

One of the perks of living downtown is the convenient proximity to most of the places that one needs to go to everyday. In my opinion, the Eco-Cabs work in terms of instilling awareness amongst the green virgins but, at the same time, are impractical unless your bum is bigger than Kim Kardashian's that it lags for 3 blocks. I'm not sure if these pedicabs are or will be dispatched to the burbs where I think it would best reach its full potential.

Now, these pedicabs are not new to the 3rd world. It's the poorman's savior, especially in the P.I. Just look at these pics:

[courtesy of www.daylife.com]

[courtesy of www.daylife.com]

GTGL8RZ!

Chalked out

2008-06-09T20:29:00.006-04:00

Saw this pavement chalk artist while basking in Manila weather around downtown Toronto. It's a very decent and, not to mention, very inspiring way to share one's talent and earn some cash. Won't it be great if panhandlers learn a bit of buskering instead of just sitting around and pissing on walls?

This is a video of the same guy doing a Johannes Vermeer, courtesy of wmacphail:

Here's another talented and more well-known pavement artist in the same area: Chalkmaster

GTGL8RZ!

Danielle Chorizo does the nasty

2008-06-04T22:30:00.001-04:00

Talk about facing reality. My fave season 2 SYTYCD? finalist does the not so unexpected in tonight's episode. In case you missed it, here's the great technician, Danielle Chorizo:

She's just amazing even in a menstrual red dress!

GTGL8RZ!

I am not a "Sex and the City" fan...

2008-05-27T23:50:00.003-04:00

A couple more days and the loose ends in the life of shallow, Marlboro Lights chimney Carrie Bradshaw will finally be tied up, or not.

Amidst all the negative reviews, the trashy tabloid publicities, and the acorn headgear disaster (SJP), I'd still throw away 11 bucks worth of sheer causeless wit and repartee between Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda. These characters represent fragments of what we long to possess but will never really have. It's a not-so-subtle way of giving the hopeless a glimmer of what can never be; like rubbing bleaching cream over brown nipples. But isn't that one reason why we go to the movies? It is a respite from the craziness that is our daily lives; like a glass of pure, clean water after a long hike up a mountain of shit.

I am watching the movie not because Chris Noth gets more airtime. I am watching the movie not because Stanford and Anthony remind me of the "mentors" I've met over the years. I am watching the movie not because Jennifer Hudson will try to prove that her Oscar isn't just a fluke. I am watching the movie not because I am a fan of the show but because.....I am "Sex and the City." ;)

GTGL8RZ!

Trashingly creative

2008-05-23T23:00:00.000-04:00

Housing Ad seen on Craigslist:

"$460 / 1br - butt-ugly basement apt for rent (again). still cheap (gerrard/coxwell)

looking for new hobbit for low-ceiling basement apartment with crooked walls and head-banger doorway.
ongoing noises from creaky upstairs wood floors, furnace and hot water heater.
definitely not "well-appointed".
not shiny
not bright
not new

could it sound more attractive?!

ah, but did you notice the price?!!!

and for this you get:
-a separate entrance.
-own bathroom
-mini-kitchen (in an awkward spot right at the entrance) with gas stove/oven, sink and bar-fridge.
-one bedroom and a living area.
-no worries about a roomie moving out and leaving you responsible to cover the whole rent alone!
-a relatively laid back landlady (... except about garbage, smell, and rent payment.)
-leaks, major issues dealt with as promptly as possible

for this I get:
- one (1) tenant who is relatively laid back... except about paying the rent on time. always on time.
-someone who cares deeply about not attracting rodents or insects, who doesn't befriend organic waste.
-someone who lets me know about leaks and any other major issues
-a non-smoker.
-no pets (sorry, I like animals but based on experience, I don't always trust their owners to take care of them)
-good references, including one from most recent landlord... who is not (coincidentally!?) the owner of the pub that you frequent. (no objection to alcohol, just to loud drunken stupidity)

paddlers/hikers/eco-conscious people preferred, but this is definitely not a requirement.
OK, well, the last one is sort of a requirement because I've ordered a "small" sized garbage bin from the city of toronto and if I need to upgrade to medium or large, you will have to pay for it.
There are sometimes canoes in the wee-little-bitty backyard. And bicycles. And stuff. "laid-back" might cover that, but paddler/hiker/cyclist might help since that's the "stuff" that clutters the yard.

please note that i'm going to show it to at LEAST 5 people before committing. even if i like you.

my current tenant is moving closer to work and I've offered a pro-rated rent refund depending on when new tenant moves in, so the availability is quite flexible.

if you've taken the time to read this and are interested, reply to posting or email me at __________@hotmail.com (please use something like "apartment for rent" in the subject line) I'll get back to you as soon as possible

Pics available upon request. "

(How creative, isn't it?)

GTGL8RZ!

Wimpy fingers can be cured?

2008-05-20T23:44:00.006-04:00

And so I thought the weirdest thing that I've ever heard is putting Vick's vaporub on foot soles to stop persistent coughing.

I was wrong. Just about a month ago, I was boring myself flipping channels one night when I stumbled on a documentary that delves on curing homosexuality. Uh-huh...that's exactly the premise of the whole docu...is gayness curable? Ugh! The film's subjects were "ex gay" Christian groups in the US that truly believe that they are going to heaven if they stop having actual copulation with the same sex when, in fact, they are dreaming of phalli 24/7. The film also interviews "hell-bound" but happy full-on gays who, of course, were fabulous. I couldn't find the actual film that I saw but here is a similar take on the same issue:

GAY CONVERSION-CURING HOMOSEXUALITY
{free film from Freedocumentaries.org}

And then here's a hilarious slap on the "ex-gay" activists:

{Youtube clip from ThoseLil'Rabbits}

GTGL8RZ!

ibeatyou

2008-05-18T15:43:00.002-04:00

Fill in the blank:

...an excuse to brag about your lack of ______

Agoraphobics Can Party Too!

2008-05-16T15:47:00.003-04:00

Oftentimes, when I get zits invasion I turn down party invites even when there's free booze. So when I found out about this contraption I thought, not only can vain queens stay home and have a good time, even agoraphobics can party too! The only problem is, I'm 10 years too old to party like there's no tomorrow. Tragic.

Before you play the video, I just would like to say that it reminded me of a Brian De Palma movie sequence. For non-film geeks, Brian is fixated with long, continuous, one-shot scenes in many of his movies like in Snake Eyes. Now turn up the volume and click!

This isn't an edited video. As I alluded, it's one continuous shot. If you wanna know more and might be thinking of getting one for your shit hole, then CLICK HERE.

GTGL8RZ!

Guilty Pleasure

2008-05-14T16:13:00.005-04:00

I've tried my best not to upload anymore American Idol stuff in here coz you can find them all over the internet. But since the season's almost done and there's a slim chance that Syesha could topple the better David, I figured I'd do a salute to the genre breaker that is Cook.

Here's a talented youtube user (De1in) video covered with the song "Makeover" from David Cook's pre-idol album "Analog Heart."

GTGL8RZ!

Pimping the Bird

2008-05-12T22:59:00.003-04:00

10 stills x 6, 6 frames per second

Anybody knows what type of bird this is? I have no clue.

GTGL8RZ!

To pull, or not to pull

2008-05-10T23:19:00.006-04:00

Woke up early today in anticipation of a long visit to the...DENTIST. Such a nice day, isn't it? And for what? A freaking re-canalization of the roots. You read it right, it's a redo. Ugh! If I only knew how everything will go under the drill, I would have postponed it. Anyway, I felt brave enough to actually go through it again so I went ahead.

As soon as I got to the clinic, I was ushered in to a private room. No waiting for ages. Hhhmm...good sign. Maybe this isn't such a bad idea after all.

The procedure was going well and I was psyching myself for a nice meal in a couple of hours, until the last 15 minutes when I hear the dentist and the assistant going:

Dentist: Did I puncture it?
Assistant: Looks like, let me suction it.
Dentist: The bleeding isn't stopping.
Assistant: (drops a plier or something on the floor) Oh!
Dentist: (blebs of sweat forming on his forehead) It's not stopping. I need to x-ray.
Assistant: (hurries out the door and bumps a table full of clangy instruments) Oops, sorry.

To make the long story short, the x-ray showed a 1-2 mm puncture in the middle of the tooth exposing the bed of the gum, which means that the original plan for re-canalization will drastically change. Still with the isolation clamp and bite wedge in my mouth, I was given 4 options on how to proceed:

1. Molar will be cut in half following the puncture site...which means 2 separate crowns will be put instead of 1 = ~$3000
2. Referral to a specialist for puncture cementing and another redo = ~$4000
3. Tooth extraction + permanent implant = ~$4000+++
4. Tooth extraction + braces + permanent bridge = ~$3000

Ugh! I din't really have any choice coz it was already messed up. Even with insurance, I still have to pay a good sum for these procedures. I chose #4 for the sole reason that no insurance in Ontario covers a permanent implant, well, at least mine din't cover it.

The extraction was done in less than a minute and I went out of the clinic literally bleeding and broke.

Such a nice day, really!

Lessons learned:
1. Marry a dentist.
2. Tooth implants are like mistresses. They are more expensive to keep than the original.
3. Dental appointments are life changing indeed.

GTGL8RZ!

Nekkid ruggers

2008-05-08T00:56:00.005-04:00

Nothing beats a 48-0 loss than having over a dozen rugby players playing spin-a-wheel. :P

If you feel obligated to know the story behind the vids, CLICK HERE.

Otherwise, for all the non-hypocrites, click the links with caution:

delfi.lt

break.com

Mars is laughing at us!

2008-05-06T20:49:00.000-04:00

{Image from planetary.org}

I guess by now the whole of the universe have heard of the two Turkey Hunting disasters in Ohio and in Minnesota this year. Such sad incidents but, come on, it's overtly stupid. I'm too embarrassed for humanity. Why would you even let a kid get close to a gun, for fart's sake; and do you even need to be that hidden that you don't even see it's a turkey you're shooting? I mean, it's not like you're bear hunting.

{Images from msss.com}

Apparently, this mess is not uncommon. CLICK HERE to see how shitty man has become.

Can't the migration to Mars start already?

SPAMming the SPAMmer

2008-05-04T00:50:00.002-04:00

I'm sure everyone gets two or more spams in a day and it sucks even if you have a bulk/spam folder 'coz precious milliseconds and minute ATPs are wasted. Well, it's been my ritual to check the subject headings first before I forever curse them to spam land. So last week I got this peculiar email from a spammer with a Russian sounding name:

{Click on the picture for a bigger version}

The spam read like this:

==============================================

Dear Sir/Madam,

Though this approach appears desperate difficulties, encountered in
efforts to establish a business abroad necessitate this search for someone
to assist me in securing and investing a very large sum of money which was
owned by close friend and business partner for a long time.

I am IVAN YURI an English citizen by birth but have leaved all my life in
Russia since I was 10 years old I am 55 years now, I was the personal
assistant and very close friend to LATE MR VIKTOR BARKOV for over
12years the Ex President of a well know firm RUCAS OIL & GAS LTD in
Russia. I left the firm in 1997 after LATE MR VIKTOR BARKOV retired at the
age of 60. Since then I went on to open my soliciting firm in the United
Kingdom and I have manage LATE MR VIKTOR BARKOV funds, which was in the
United Kingdom.

On the 11 of March 2004,it came to my notice that LATE MR VIKTOR BARKOV
was on vacation in Spain ,he was going for sight seeing when he got on
the commuter train system of Madrid when series of coordinated bombings
took place (a suicide bomber with a bag pack on train) in the Madrid
commuter train exploded which killed over 191 people and injured a further
2050 and my dearest friend God bless his sole LATE MR VIKTOR BARKOV was
caught in the incident I always remember when I spoke to him last on the
10th of that month and he told me how Spain was it took me over a year to
get over it and come to reality that he was no more. Since then I have
paid over £150,000 for the last 4 year to secure this funds I have been
looking for any of his relatives since then and only to find out that he
was the last generation of the BARKOV Family single and Died at the age of
65years.

YOUR ROLE:

It came to my notice on the 1st of this month from the security firm where
this funds were deposited that if we cant pay the taxation fess of these
funds by the end of year the funds will be remitted to the British
commission, I have a profiling amount of $20,000,000USD(Twenty Million
Dollars).Which I seek your Partnership in accommodating for me. A You will
be rewarded as mentioned above with 25% of the total sum for your
partnership cooperation. Can you be my partner on this? All I need from
you is to stand as the beneficiary of the above quoted Sum and I will
re-profile the funds with your name, which will enable the European
haulage and private vault Security Company release the consignment of the
funds to you in your name as the new beneficiary to the claims of the
Funds. While 5% should be for expenses or tax as your government may
require. All I require is your honest co-operation to enable us having
this
transaction accomplished. I have all the documents (DEPOSIT CERTIFICATE)
and also will be arranging documents from Russia make you a relative that
guarantee this transaction is executed under a legitimate arrangement Also
as a personal lawyer to LATE MR VIKTOR BARKOV i will provide us with all
legal guide in collecting this funds without any trouble for both
countries government. This will protect everyone involved from breach of
the law’s will also send you text of claim application to fill out. You
shall be expect to fill it out and forwarded to the security firm,
requesting for the immediate remittance of the fund into your nominated
account.
It is worthy to note that due to the nature of this transaction absolute
confidentiality is required when the fund has been remitted into your
nominated account. I must assure you, once again, this transaction is safe
and free from any encumbrance because adequate arrangement have been Put
in place for its success. Your sincere cooperation in this regards, will
be duly appreciated. I look forward to your urgent reply.

NB: Due to security reason I need you to contact me on my private email:
ivanyuri165@hotmail.com

Regards,
Mr.Ivan Yuri

=============================================

Impressive, don't you think? Of course, that oil and gas company in Russia exists, and the 2004 bombing line was eerily accurate. The spammers actually do some research before wreaking havoc to our innocent email addresses. I just have to let them know that someone actually read their rubbish so I emailed them back.

This is my spam:

{Click the picture for a bigger version}

As expected, I got no response whatsoever. :P

GTGL8RZ!

Go Green!

2008-05-01T21:53:00.006-04:00

6 weeks! Finally, the "kinda" second installment to the Hulk film saga is coming.

Louis Leterrier seems like a better fit to do this as opposed to Ang Lee; what with his double Transporter drugs, which were both drab-free. I don't really care much about the storyline when it comes to popcorn flicks like this. It's all about entertainment not intelligent post-movie repartee.

BTW, the climactic clash between The Abomination and The Hulk was filmed in downtown Toronto, and I sorta got to see the made-up street and props. No Edward Norton sighting though.

GTGL8RZ!

The-re-min what?!

2008-04-28T22:00:00.001-04:00

Yeah, I'm not very musical. But hey, I got really curious with this device/instrument. I guess I'm not the only one who has not been introduced, so before googling the title can you tell what these are?

[Image from VintageSynth]

How bout this one?

Still perplexed? Check out these vids:

If you wanna know more or, like me, just plain curious CLICK HERE.

In my opinion, nothing beats how Levi Celerio plays tunes with just a leaf. I'm just saying...

[Image from Spock]

GTGL8RZ!

Triplets?

2008-04-24T23:00:00.002-04:00

I dunno if it's just me, but while watching Survivor Micronesia, I can't help but think that I must've seen Erik in some movie before. Well, not really. He just looks like...

Left: Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite/Blades of Glory)
Center: Erik Reichenbach (Survivor Micronesia-Fans VS Favorites)
Right: Felicity Huffman (Desperate Housewives/Transamerica)

I think the $40 chocolate-covered finger lick he did is what reality TV is all about! I'm just saying...

GTGL8RZ!

Images from:
CBS.com
Yahoo
Askmen.com

Car 30

2008-04-22T10:54:00.005-04:00

Remember that time when you had to save money on a trip and you had no choice but to be trapped with the in-laws in a dingy motel and it felt like you're gonna die? Well, this is worse. Okay, okay...maybe the in-laws thing is hell.

But anyway, this video was purportedly leaked after more than 8 years of active cover-up by an obviously embarrassed to death company. Apparently, Nicholas White (the guy in the video) went down for a smoke break not knowing that it would be the longest smoke break that he would ever have. The incident became his ticket to a downward spiral. What would you do if you were stuck in a cage for more than 40 hours with...no cellphone, no water, no ipod?

Here's the full and very sad story of Nicholas White from the New Yorker.

All I can say is.....at least he had smokes. ;)

GTGL8RZ!

Crackhead Tap

2008-04-20T21:02:00.006-04:00

Took the subway early this morning after downing a cheap bottle of vino and a bar of coffee crisp last night. Got a little thirsty so I finished everything even before I finished watching Lars and The Real Girl. Movie's not bad but drags a bit, and with 14% alcohol in my system, I would cry at the corniest of scenes and flap my wings at the stupidest of jokes.

So back to the subway scene. I got on Victoria Park and sat in front of an obviously high crackhead wearing a black tee with a yellow Star Wars print. Halfway in the trip, the guy taps my shoulder and whispers something. I was enjoying the chorus of Elliott's Free so I din't catch what he was saying. Took the pods off and asked. This was how the conversation went:

Me: What's that?
Crackhead: So I'm going to Woodbine and I'm spending 3 grand. Which number should I choose, 31 or 57?
Me: (was still half asleep and cranky) Why don't you buy a 3 grand suit, go and lay on the 401 and take 5 forever!

(then I stood and walk to the other end of the coach and spent the rest of the trip with Elliott Yamin)

Now, I'm gonna be expecting a morbid news about that guy in the following days.

GTGL8RZ!

Kids' Play

2008-04-18T21:11:00.005-04:00

107 still photos + Quicktime + iMovie = shitty vid

enjoy.....or not!

:P

GTGL8RZ!

Black Suede Scandal?

2008-04-17T12:29:00.006-04:00

I got a weird email spam this morning regarding a supposed Cebu scandal. And yes, I actually check the spam titles before deleting them...everytime. Coz you never know what gossip you may miss. And so I read on and it went to say that a case will be filed for patient-doctor confidentiality breach regarding a youtube vid of an anal surgery.

WTF?! How and why the heck would an anal surgery be interesting to merit online space?

.....BODY SPRAY BOTTLE IN THE HOLE!

Oh, that's interesting! So I went ahead and searched through youtube planet. Took me just 5 minutes to finally get into a copy of a copy of the original upload. Turns out, the originals and other copies have been erased, for some legal reasons. Anyway, the vid was obviously taken with a phonecam and it looked like it was done inside the O.R. To me, the procedure actually was not surgery, it's more of lost item recovery, as I don't think an incision was needed to get through the freaking bottle. So there, dirty/contaminated surgery, whatever you wish to call it, it was a fiasco in that certain cubicle, they were cheering, for barf's sake. At one point, a member of the team even said "put it back in!" I also noticed 2 other cams recording the whole thing so I'm sure other vids will soon surface.

If you're wondering how the hell did this thing happen, CLICK HERE for a version of what probably transpired.

I feel so bad for..........the bottle. Poverty sucks that people can't even afford a decent dildo.

Lessons learned from this:
1. Have sex without booze and drugs. Trust me, it's better to feel the pressure when you're fully conscious.
2. Love thy lube...lots of it.
3. If you can't fart, then something's wrong with the pipes.

GTGL8RZ!

Freebie!

2008-04-16T12:14:00.006-04:00

So I got an email from NOW Toronto and I was thrilled to finally win something from their newsletter mailing list. I've been signing up for contests for months and I've only gotten cold callers instead of goodie packages. Anyway, I won tickets to see the premiere of Family Motel. Of course, I haven't heard of it, but quick googling says it's a Canadian production about a Somali family's battle with immigrant issues and homelessness. A friend went with me not knowing what to expect.

Well, I should say I loved the film. It's a little held off in terms of violent mishaps and situations, but I understand it was done light so as not to pull the focus away from the real issues. To me it's more of an inner struggle among the characters so the heavy emotions drawn out were enough. There was a post show Q&A with the actors and the production and it's interesting to note that the lead actors haven't even done any kind of film before. They also did the whole production without an actual script, so I applaud the cast for their improv talents, which should ring higher fees, but then again it's a film for a cause so forget that. Production wise, it was filmed in HD cams so you could actually see the smallest of comedones on the actors' faces. It's also nice that they actually used real people in their real jobs in the course of the mother's challenges. Overall, it's a well-crafted film. Although it's probably best suited shown on TV for more people to see, I hope the film gains more support for better exposure around the world. The film opens early May in Toronto so watch for it!

GTGL8RZ!

Winter's done

2008-04-14T11:41:00.003-04:00

Goodness! It's been 2 years and this is still on. I would think my page would get shelved after a year or so of basically nonexistence. Anyway, I hope to get more hits and share more to a nonexistent audience. Who knows, I might meet some interesting people thru this. Will try to link my flickr photos too. I dunno how to do it yet but it will happen...in 42 years. :P

GTGL8RZ!

Birthday Blow

2006-03-28T20:14:00.001-05:00

What could be worse than getting an F mark on your 29th birthday? Getting two. There's something really wrong when you hear great feedbacks while working on a project and then, come evaluation day, you don't even reach 70%. I had to dig up my talent in haggling to get the super subjective checker to reconsider the concept maps we were forced to do. Good thing, my new pair of Prada dampened the blow and I sashayed through the rest of the day as a birthday boy should.

Regal Shocked, Not!

2006-03-06T15:10:00.000-05:00

So I was having my late lunch of Street-Style Pad Thai from Green Mango mixed with Pork BBQ from Aristokrat (not the real one with a "C," but definitely tastes as good) and I felt the urge to go Bakya, as usual. Channel 606 costs about 18 CAD/month and satellite TV is not allowed in the pad so I thought I should make do with it no matter how creatively-challenged the stations they carry are. Do you remember Regal Shockers? Yes, exactly! Mother Lily's baby. The show starts with a grim reaperish being bearing a neon-lighted scythe and orbicularis oculi. A big blast from the past 'coz the episode stars Pinky Amador, Laarni Enriquez, Dennis Roldan, and some 80's Regal Babies I don't remember. I remember watching it wide-eyed with my sisters and yaya everytime it's on and then having to imagine monsters in the dark in my room after. Talk about PG TV back in the 80's?! I din't care and din't know about CGIs and prosthetics then, so it was all real to me. It's funny to look back and laugh at how Bakya the household was then (as if it changed a lot in twenty years?). It's weird that I kept on laughing instead of feeling uneasy with the sequences. Of course I din't finish it and decided to rechannel my homesickness by finishing a big chunk of Sans Rival courtesy of Goldilocks.

Something to dream about...

2006-02-12T05:13:00.001-05:00

Pinay, American Style

2006-02-08T13:53:00.001-05:00

It pays to amuse yourself with Pinoy artistry when there's nothing else to do on a cold night. Good thing there's Mabuhay Channel in Toronto, I get nothing less than channels 5, 9, and 13 shows. What more can I ask for? I wonder why Sweet's Blind Item hasn't been nominated for Star Awards, what with their very original schemes? And, oh yeah, Chow Time helps me burn calories by making me break wind every 5 seconds. So last night I layed down to be entertained by a 1979 Vilma Santos movie, Pinay, American Style. Oh boy, I was really tickled pink! I don't really remember the actual dialogues, but it went something like these:

(Vilma as Px talking to Bembol Roco after a free dinner of dilis)
Px: Kanina, pinangako ko sa sarili ko na ibibigay ko katawan ko, may makain lang ako. Ngayon, eto , KAININ MO KO!

(Px talking to Cocoy Laurel her fiance)
Cocoy: Px, akin ka lang!
Px: Sayo lang ako? Eh, ikaw? Sa akin ka lang ba? Kung pwede kang kumalkal nang kung sinu-sino, pwes mangkakalkal din ako!

Aren't those lines so Palancaish? I'm sure Ate Vi remembers those lines for all the wrong reasons.

Carol Banawa in AI5

2006-02-07T16:49:00.000-05:00

I was pleasantly surprised to see someone familiar auditioning for American Idol 5. And yes, it was Carol Banawa. The rhinoplasty made her look older though. Unfortunately, it wasn't clear if she got a greenlight to Hollywood or not. It's fun though to see what the judges thought of her, but the producers seemed to be uninterested with a petite Asian diva.

Oh, I hope she makes it!

...kidding around at the OSC

2006-02-04T23:29:00.000-05:00

Syriana?

2006-01-14T13:05:00.001-05:00

The exciting trailer and mounds of pseudoreviews on TV and magazines created a big ball of anticipation in me. So I longed to spend my Saturday night for a great entree. Well, as always, the old adage not to judge a movie by it's trailer prevailed. The big puzzle of a movie made me feel that it will come to a big clincher in the end. But it did not happen. Aside from a gory torture scene and a suspenseful explosion, Syriana did not deliver. Although it's not really a secret, I admire the attempt to divulge the crazy innards of the oil industry. But the execution could do more than a garnish. Oh wait, if you're a chubby chaser and likes older men, then, by all means, watch it for a shirtless and chunky George Clooney.

A Day at the ROM

2006-01-14T00:42:00.000-05:00

First Month

2005-10-31T23:00:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been a month. Gained a few more pounds from cheap desserts from the local grocery store across the flat and from lying around while tuned in to local TV showing penises, tits, and pubic hair like it's just your regular staple. How productive can I get? For starters, Medical-related jobs, no matter how menial, require a certain certification or a membership to an organization. Both, I don't have. So the past month I've been seriously considering true manual labor. How's that for a career change?
Anywayz, I still miss Cash & Carry, and the all reliable Mini Stop across my old pad. Dominion, Loblaws, and Wal-Mart, my new bestfriends, lack the familiar scents of Sunday shoppers in Makati, although they make up by having very interesting arrays of goodies. Coke, for example, is sold as Classic, Coke Lime, Diet Coke Lime, C2(50% caffeine and calories from the classic), Zero(no sugar, no calories), and Diet(zero calories and zero caffeine). There's also a cereal brand named Special K (hhmm...makes me think). Here, I don't have to go early to shop 'coz they have lots of stocks of Tropicana. And I also learned to appreciate ginger ale. Self-service counters mirror the degree of transparency/trust among the people here. I can't imagine SM imbibing this kind of service.

Single digits. No, I'm not referring to my bank pool (although when I don't get a job it might get to this). It's the temperature. I remember the lowest I experienced was 14 degrees in Shanghai. Now I have to wear a tuke and 3 layers of shirts. I finally have reason for the hours I spent watching fall and winter collection fashion shows on TV. And, yes, I can now wear turtle necks and boas without worrying of being branded as Tim Yap's apprentice.
The neighborhood is well-mixed. Whites, Blacks, Browns, Reds. You pass one corner and you'll hear gibberish, go to another corner and you'll get a hard Armenian accent. Almost all the people I've dealt with are either naturalized citizens or permanent residents like me. More than a couple of times, I've been approached for directions, but I can only do so much. Haven't really been out of downtown. Well, no real major reason to go out of the city, except of course to visit Oshawa, where my nieces are. Everything seems clean and well taken cared of, almost. I'd probably dwell on that topic next time I get the chance to blog.
That's it for now! I miss everybody!