Yep..i got in!!! WOW!!!
http://www.pitzer.edu/index.asp
Donations so i can go, are NOW being accepted!
Sunday, June 1, 2008
PITZER BOUND!!!!
Yep..i got in!!! WOW!!!
http://www.pitzer.edu/index.asp
Donations so i can go, are NOW being accepted!
The Damned Ride! 30 + miles!!
There is not much more fun you can have on a Sunday, than a bike ride with friends and family! More pictures @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/waketravels/
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Bike to Work
Dahlia, Abe, and i went to the Uptown Whittier Bike to work post this past Thursday. Tom was working the booth all decked out in his Whittier Cycle gear. We got some fruit, goodie bags, an an article in the paper. We did a ride to get some breakfast, and hit up a thrift store. It was a FUCK YEAH DAY!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Question: What current social issue is most significant in your life? Why? Why Boycott China? Read HERE!
The current social issue that is most significant in my life is one that is a great distance from the United States. I became aware of Burma as a student traveler less than two years ago. Upon arriving, I knew little about the land, culture, people, or the political and economic situation that has grasped this country for the past four decades. Sadly, over this period of time, there have been many brave activists for democracy and change that have lost their lives. In this essay I will touch upon the political history of Burma, as well as the current administration, and discuss why this social issue occurring thousands of miles away is so significant to me. Also I will address what steps we all can do as free Americans to assist in the fall of this brutal dictatorship.
Many historians designate the beginning of Burma’s political and economic dilemmas back to the year 1885, when the British overthrew the Burmese government and declared Burma a colony of Britain. The resentment from the Burmese people in response to the occupation grew and was channeled through a number of protests and violent scenarios. One specific flux of the discontent was coined the “Shoe Question”, where the colonizers did not remove their shoes when entering a temple or other places of worship. A monk tried to remove the shoes from one of the bearing offenders, and was arrested and then imprisoned for attempt of murder. Burma’s history is plagued with a number of similar incidences.
After WWII the British again tried to regain control over Burma, but they were met with opposition. During this time of turmoil, a young student rose from the crowd named U Aung San, who along with the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League (AFPFL) behind him was a voice for the Burmese. Together they called for full independence to be granted to Burma from the British rule, which they did win.
As often occurs through history, once a country is able to fight off the outside intruder, the next step is to fight on a civil level. This is where Burma has been for the last four decades. The military junta violently controls Burma, has the only Noble Peace prizewinner, Aung San Suu Kyi imprisoned under house arrest, and continues to suppress any kind of opposition with brutal force. They have refused to hand Burma over to the National League for Democracy (NLD) that won over 80% of the votes. The 8888 Uprising was a landmark demonstration in this struggle. Students along side with Monks took to the streets of Yangon in protest against the SLORC (State Law & Order Restoration Council) due to the political oppression and economic failure. The SLORC declared martial law, and hundreds of the protestors were shot down in the streets, people murdered for speaking out for the change that they sought. The 8888 Uprising is closing in on a very important anniversary. The Olympics are taking place in China this year. China has continued to use its veto power to block the UN (United Nations) from making any positive change in Burma. They have been able to profit off of the genocide by the selling of arms/weapons to the SLORC, and via the black market trade of opium. I along with the US Campaign for Burma am pushing for the boycott of the Olympics in China. You can help by turning your televisions off, not purchasing any Olympic merchandise and boycotting the corporate sponsors. (www.uscampaignforburma.org for more details)
Thus, in the foretelling of Burma’s history, I can now explain why this social issue is the most significant in my life. I spent just under a week in Burma and among the days I spent wandering Yangon city, the countryside, visiting major landmarks, orphanages, and monasteries, I have never been so touched by a culture and the people. One of the days was spent with a monk named Suryi, who took me to the Shwedagon Pagoda. There he explained the artwork, the architecture, and the different worship figures. He also lead me to the discovery that my sacred figure is the elephant, and showed me the tradition of pouring water over the statues head which would bring prosperity in the coming year. The Burmese are extremely warm, friendly, giving, patient, people. There is this over whelming sense of peace when Buddhist monks and nuns surround you. With faces covered in Thanakha (Burmese make-up), smiles, the sweet smell of flowers in the air, the picturesque countryside, and the beautiful people, this mixture of grace had a strong impact on me. Even more over whelming is the odd silence that I sensed from the people. It was a strange situation to be in. A traveler to a foreign country, no familiarities, friendly faces, a seemingly safe and content environment, yet it was not the case.
My passion for Burma began as our ship pulled away from port, and that was where my discovery of this country truly began. As I learned about the history and the present pugnacious dictatorship, it was hard to fathom that I had walked on the roads where people had been shot down and killed for speaking out. The human rights violations that are happening in Burma are beyond nefarious. I feel compelled by the children that I met, the kindness of all the monks and nuns, of the people who took me in for tea, and people who helped me find my way; to bring my experience and my working knowledge to achieve change and help the Burmese people make it a reality. Through my passion for Burma, I have been an active volunteer with US Campaign for Burma. I have worked with Jeremy Woodrum, Thelma Young, and Grace Michel. I also was able to meet the founder of The Human Rights Action Center, Jack Healey, and also the exiled Prime Minister Dr. Sein Win.
I have often reflected on events in history, and have wondered what I would do if I was alive during these battles, I know that Burma’s cause is one that I want to see realized. One day I will be able to return to this land and know, in my heart, that change was possible.
Many historians designate the beginning of Burma’s political and economic dilemmas back to the year 1885, when the British overthrew the Burmese government and declared Burma a colony of Britain. The resentment from the Burmese people in response to the occupation grew and was channeled through a number of protests and violent scenarios. One specific flux of the discontent was coined the “Shoe Question”, where the colonizers did not remove their shoes when entering a temple or other places of worship. A monk tried to remove the shoes from one of the bearing offenders, and was arrested and then imprisoned for attempt of murder. Burma’s history is plagued with a number of similar incidences.
After WWII the British again tried to regain control over Burma, but they were met with opposition. During this time of turmoil, a young student rose from the crowd named U Aung San, who along with the Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League (AFPFL) behind him was a voice for the Burmese. Together they called for full independence to be granted to Burma from the British rule, which they did win.
As often occurs through history, once a country is able to fight off the outside intruder, the next step is to fight on a civil level. This is where Burma has been for the last four decades. The military junta violently controls Burma, has the only Noble Peace prizewinner, Aung San Suu Kyi imprisoned under house arrest, and continues to suppress any kind of opposition with brutal force. They have refused to hand Burma over to the National League for Democracy (NLD) that won over 80% of the votes. The 8888 Uprising was a landmark demonstration in this struggle. Students along side with Monks took to the streets of Yangon in protest against the SLORC (State Law & Order Restoration Council) due to the political oppression and economic failure. The SLORC declared martial law, and hundreds of the protestors were shot down in the streets, people murdered for speaking out for the change that they sought. The 8888 Uprising is closing in on a very important anniversary. The Olympics are taking place in China this year. China has continued to use its veto power to block the UN (United Nations) from making any positive change in Burma. They have been able to profit off of the genocide by the selling of arms/weapons to the SLORC, and via the black market trade of opium. I along with the US Campaign for Burma am pushing for the boycott of the Olympics in China. You can help by turning your televisions off, not purchasing any Olympic merchandise and boycotting the corporate sponsors. (www.uscampaignforburma.org for more details)
Thus, in the foretelling of Burma’s history, I can now explain why this social issue is the most significant in my life. I spent just under a week in Burma and among the days I spent wandering Yangon city, the countryside, visiting major landmarks, orphanages, and monasteries, I have never been so touched by a culture and the people. One of the days was spent with a monk named Suryi, who took me to the Shwedagon Pagoda. There he explained the artwork, the architecture, and the different worship figures. He also lead me to the discovery that my sacred figure is the elephant, and showed me the tradition of pouring water over the statues head which would bring prosperity in the coming year. The Burmese are extremely warm, friendly, giving, patient, people. There is this over whelming sense of peace when Buddhist monks and nuns surround you. With faces covered in Thanakha (Burmese make-up), smiles, the sweet smell of flowers in the air, the picturesque countryside, and the beautiful people, this mixture of grace had a strong impact on me. Even more over whelming is the odd silence that I sensed from the people. It was a strange situation to be in. A traveler to a foreign country, no familiarities, friendly faces, a seemingly safe and content environment, yet it was not the case.
My passion for Burma began as our ship pulled away from port, and that was where my discovery of this country truly began. As I learned about the history and the present pugnacious dictatorship, it was hard to fathom that I had walked on the roads where people had been shot down and killed for speaking out. The human rights violations that are happening in Burma are beyond nefarious. I feel compelled by the children that I met, the kindness of all the monks and nuns, of the people who took me in for tea, and people who helped me find my way; to bring my experience and my working knowledge to achieve change and help the Burmese people make it a reality. Through my passion for Burma, I have been an active volunteer with US Campaign for Burma. I have worked with Jeremy Woodrum, Thelma Young, and Grace Michel. I also was able to meet the founder of The Human Rights Action Center, Jack Healey, and also the exiled Prime Minister Dr. Sein Win.
I have often reflected on events in history, and have wondered what I would do if I was alive during these battles, I know that Burma’s cause is one that I want to see realized. One day I will be able to return to this land and know, in my heart, that change was possible.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Bike Art III
I have five photos that have been accepted in the Bike Art III show at Altered Esthetics. It will be in June and also in Minnesota!! Hee Hee !!!
BICYCLE ART III
June 5-28 - Bicycle Art at Altered Esthetics
Over 40 artists present 100 new works of bicycle-themed artwork.
Please join us for the opening reception on Friday, June 6th, 7pm -10pm.
June 6-7 - Altered Esthetics' Team bikes in the MS 150
A perfect match - Altered Esthetics' team of artists and cyclists partner with the National MS Society in this year's MS 150 Bike Ride from Duluth to Blaine. (Join the team or make a donation on our behalf!)
June 24 - Bicycle Art on Parade
We'll present a selection of the Bicycle Art exhibit on wheels during
the 79th annual Northeast parade. Join us on Central Ave at 6:30pm
for a mobile art exhibition and the rest of the Northeast Parade!
"Outside Looking In" by Kathryn Browning
BICYCLE ART III
June 5-28 - Bicycle Art at Altered Esthetics
Over 40 artists present 100 new works of bicycle-themed artwork.
Please join us for the opening reception on Friday, June 6th, 7pm -10pm.
June 6-7 - Altered Esthetics' Team bikes in the MS 150
A perfect match - Altered Esthetics' team of artists and cyclists partner with the National MS Society in this year's MS 150 Bike Ride from Duluth to Blaine. (Join the team or make a donation on our behalf!)
June 24 - Bicycle Art on Parade
We'll present a selection of the Bicycle Art exhibit on wheels during
the 79th annual Northeast parade. Join us on Central Ave at 6:30pm
for a mobile art exhibition and the rest of the Northeast Parade!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Burma: A View From The Inside, @ Orange Coast College
Mary Bell's art show was this past Thursday. Her photo's are gorgeous, and make a very strong statement about the situation that is on going in Burma. A documentary was shown, and a number of discussion about Burma and the struggles that they face took place. It was a very successful night. Mary's family and friends are really wonderful. Thanks for helping me get there Mary!!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maryhadalittlelamb/
We Love Riding #2, Whittier
What a kick ass night! We love riding put on the second ride this past Friday night. We meet up @Dr. Java and set out with twelve awesome riders. Around Whittier and La Habra, we rode for fun, and to spread the word..."Ditch your car...ride a BIKE!!!" I met some awesome people, and ended the night over a pint, and some Moon Shine!!!!
http://www.weloveriding.com
Thursday, March 6, 2008
BURMA : The Saffron Revolution and the Struggle for Freedom
It has been a busy week. There was another awareness night for Burma @ Whittier College this past Tuesday. It was organized by a good friend Pyi and Prof. Jason Carbine. The night consisted of Buddhist chanting in the ancient language of Pali, a photo exhibit, a documentary film on Burma, and traditional dancing. There was an absolutely amazing performance by Lilly Hayden, and it ended with an open forum funnelled by activist and Burmese in exile.
There is another photo exhibit and awareness documentary coming up. Please join us:
Burma: A View From The Inside, A documentary collection By Mary Bell.
Opening Reception March 13, 2008 6-8pm, Orange Coast College, Fine Arts Building Costa Mesa, more info @: www.occphoto.com
See you there!!!
Please visit:
http://uscampaignforburma.org
http://www.humanrightsactioncenter.org
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The US Campaign for Burma & Human Rights Action Center Fund Raiser for Burma, @ The Hyatt, West Hollywood CA
The Us Campaign for Burma and the Human Rights Action Center, put on a fund raiser to raise awareness and support for the situation that has grasp the people of Burma for the past four decades. The evening was co-host by Anjelica Huston and Jimmy Miller (Mosaic Media). The MCs where Jeremy Woodrum (US Campaign for Burma) and KhinPhyu Htway, who is a Burmese in exile. Spacial guest were Dr. Sein Win, Prime minster of the Burmese government in exile, Julie Benz, actress in the latest Rambo movie, Kate Phillips, family member of AungSuu Kyi, Jack Healey, Human Rights Action Center Founder (among NUMEROUS other achievements: http://www.thefreedomcampaign.org/about_jack.php), Eric Szmanda, actor and Burma supporter, and a performance by Damien Rice, musician. It was a very moving evening, with speeches from Kate Phillips, Jack Healey, and Anjelica Huston, reading from "Freedom from Fear" an essay by Aung San Suu Kyi. It was an honor to be a volunteer for this event. I want to thank Grace Michel, and Thelma Young, two amazing woman that I am very great full to of met. There will be change in Burma. Awareness is spreading. The sacrifices of Aung San Suu Kyi, and the brave people of Burma will not go unanswered.
"DEMOCRACY, DEMOCRACY, OUR CAUSE, OUR CAUSE!"
"Fearlessness may be a gift but perhaps more precious is the courage acquired through endeavour, courage that comes from cultivating the habit of refusing to let fear dictate one's actions, courage that could be described as 'grace under pressure' - grace which is renewed repeatedly in the face of harsh, unremitting pressure." ~Aung San Suu Kyi
Los Angeles Critical Mass
This past Friday, once again the streets where filled with passionate people for change...also known as RIDERS!!! Up and down Los Angeles, through paths of consumerism, we rode to spread the word..."STOP buying Shit....Read more Books!"A new design to riding the "Circle of Death" was introduced...made by who (a pure genius i must assume)??? But demonstrated by all of us we controlled three intersections, swarming like bees, and shouting words of praise, the riders where seen and heard! RIDE ON!!!!
Friday, February 29, 2008
The Coachella Sandwich
Congratulations to Jen and Bekket on the new pad!! It was a beautiful day in Silverlake, and there was only one floor of moving. Who could ask for a better situation than that. I scored a kick ass veggie sandwich, and ended the day with friends and 2 Newcastles. SALUD!!!
La Cocina
Thank You Thank You.......wonderful Bicycle Cocina. My Peugeot is up and running again. Miss Paula joined me this last Tuesday...we are ready for the road. Thanks to all the volunteers, you are gems!
Job Interview
How awesome is this.... i show up for my job interview today, with chain grease on my leg. I think i scored extra points.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Blah day...
%&*(*&^*^%%^$##$@%&*)(&%#@!@#$%^&**!!!! To say the least. I drew a really bad picture of a man while i had lunch today. Have you ever tried that...? The thing is, you don't want them to see you looking at them (well at least i don't)and definitely not drawing a really bad picture of them. A thing like this could snow ball into a court case these days. Lunch was great...ever have sweet potato fries?? you should.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Machu Picchu, Peru
Now, i hope that everyone who accidentally falls upon this blog... that you...if nothing else, decide that Machu Picchu is a place where you MUST go to before you kick the bucket. My big sis Sunshine took me here. This was a defining moment in my life. Latin America as a whole is a phenomenal land. I read the Motorcycle Diaries years later, and it was such a sensation to re-visit these places through my memories. There is a picture that my sister took that is on my desk. It reminds me of great accomplishments and mysteries. Once you are up there, among the clouds of the ancient Inca.. you will under stand what i mean.
The Land of Burma
It has been almost two years since i have been to Burma, however it is a place that i think of on a daily bases. I have been so lucky to do and go, to as many places that i have been. I have always come back changed, with a new perception of life, and a handful of changes i feel that i must make to become a better person. I wish that more people could have the opportunities that i have had. I think there would be less bull $#%&, and greed in the world if more people saw what i have seen first hand. It is like an awakening, and your mind is so full of thoughts and questions, it is truly hard to bear.
~All I Know is... That I Know Nothing At All~
That is not meant to be a discouraging remark, more of a motivational one. With all that we experience...there are vast lands where few feet have traveled. Knowing that there is so much more to learn, helps me keep a balance, and in times of hardship, remembering the faces of Burma, keeps me focused on a better tomorrow.
Whittier Ride
This weekend my sister and i went on a ride. Destination the Sheltered Hand Thrift Store.(all proceeds go to support battered women's shelters) Whittier is a great place to ride. There are a number of bike lanes, and thus far zero attitude from angry drivers. We celebrated our finds with a Pacifico and some camarones tacos.Here are some pictures from our ride.
Dia de uno
I have just started...i hope that the on going pages are enjoyed. I have been told that i have a "weird life" things just seem to happen to me, or i seem to get myself into situations of great oddities...never the less..let the madness proceed, and i hope you can laugh, as i do, at all the bumps i hit "On the Road"!
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