California regulators voted to make it easier for electric vehicle charging companies to sell power in the state, ahead of California's mandated offering of electric cars in 2011.
Electric charging companies will be legally allowed to operate without being regulated as an 'investor-owned utility', the California Public Utilities Commission declared in its latest San Francisco meeting.
"Electric transportation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve local air quality, and reduce California’s dependence on oil," stated CPUC Commissioner Nancy Ryan.
"Consumers will not adopt electric vehicles without adequate charging infrastructure. This decision provides needed regulatory clarity to encourage the state’s entrepreneurs and investors to develop charging solutions that will satisfy consumer needs and work harmoniously with the electric grid," the commissioner added.
The CPUC's decision gets rid of a huge roadblock to reselling electricity at charging stations and will help speed-up public adoption of electric cars. The decision will also help California meet greenhouse gas reduction goals, according to the Commission.
The State of California will force big car makers to sell electric vehicles starting next year. In reaction to the state's demand, GM, Nissan, Toyota and other car makers have stated that California will be among the first markets for their lithium-ion battery vehicles.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger commended the California Public Utilities Commission's decision against regulating, as 'public utilities', the companies that sell electric vehicle charging services.
"I applaud the CPUC for making this important decision that takes another step towards making California one of the most attractive places in the world for green technology," the governor stated.
"It will now be easier than ever for electric vehicle charging infrastructure to be built throughout the state, meaning more electric vehicles on the road. Today’s decision will also mean less pollution, decreased reliance on costly oil, job creation and better options for consumers in California," declared Schwarzenegger.
Logically, since the State of California has mandated the widespread availability of electric cars in 2011, its public utilities regulation arm would smooth the way for electric vehicle charging stations to easily do business.
"Lemonade" is a 2010 pop song by singer/songwriter Daniel Revel Miller of Goleta, California. Sweet, and slightly tangy, "Lemonade" is a fun-in-the-sun classic.
The song is cool and catchy.
A couple of cuss words and a 'weed' reference in "Lemonade" made the lines between my eyebrows a little deeper, though I totally dig the song .
Very 'summer', very 'California', and the college crowd totally loves the video (below).
Daniel Revel Miller is surrounded by hot 'party girls' in the video that features lemons, 'sugar', cool art and California references throughout.
Young listeners relate to the lyrics' romantic lament of the 'hookup' that fell through, while the music suggests carefree California fun.
Daniel Revel Miller and Katy Perry are both from two California coastal cities that border each other --- Santa Barbara and Goleta. Proximity to the UCSB campus provides inspiration for both songwriters in their musical expressions of fun California youth.
Daniel Revel Miller enjoys a huge audience of young fans and a lot of attention from college and university students across America, with hip-hop recording artist Big Sean among the young singer's fans.
The aim of Miller's sweet summer song is not to change the world --- it's all about the vibe of being young, having fun, and living large.
Simple and sunny, "Lemonade" by Daniel Revel Miller is another classic song for California's endless summer.
No society on earth has struggled so much with the expression, the meaning and the lack of LOVE.
Whether it's 'the love of money', the Love Generation, 'California Love', self-love, love of God, brotherly love, universal love, love-ins, 'free love', or love parades, Californians 'feel the love' in such unconventional ways that some would ask, What's Love Got To Do With It?
Animal lovers, nature lovers, lovers of the environment, art lovers, music lovers, gay lovers, married lovers, ex-lovers, technology lovers and freedom lovers have all pushed their affections into the hearts and minds of the masses, through the legal system, and into societal normalcy in California.
If you're a tree, an animal, an ocean, a child, a minority, a celebrity, a religion or a woman, California is where you're more protected by law than any place on the planet.
It seems like, to Californians, love must be defined, tangible, and publicly supported.
The polar opposite in the Golden State is lack of love.
Racial tension, riots, protests, discrimination, hate crimes, demonization and fear all pop up periodically, but love eventually overcomes and wins in California, the Diversity Capitol.
Californians love more compassionately, give more generously, and are more accepting than any society in history. Why?
Many say it's because so many Californians have previously lived their lives in other societies which were not as loving.
Others say it's because Californians interact with so many different lifestyles. Some even say it's because every Californian has survived a spiritual 'past-life'.
For whatever reasons, California is the 'The Love State' that will always reach outward in self-expression as it looks inward in self-examination.
Bell, California has 'sounded the bell' of revolution for all towns and cities --- and its ringing has now been heard 'round the world.
The citizenry of the City of Bell are standing together in revolutionary solidarity against corruption and overtaxation and, over the last 72 hours, The People have forced corrupt officials to resign in cowardly shame.
Californiality stands firmly, solidly, and proudly with the 40,000 citizens of Bell in the exercising of their rights under the Constitution of California and the Constitution of the United States.
May all Californians, and all Americans, salute the brave people of Bell for leaving their homes, their jobs, and their daily activities to get together in the streets of their city and demand justice.
Details of Bell's story are everywhere. No need to recap it all here. This post is simply a statement of pride in, and support for, the fantastic Californians who have made global headlines by standing up to evil.
The People have prevailed.
It's a wonderful day for the citizens of Bell, California, as well as for Democracy itself. May every town and city take the cue and seize the day.
Best Coast is the Los Angeles band with the hippest Southern California surf garage sound to come around in years.
The coolest Best Coast video, "When I'm With You", is a personal favorite. No long post about the song --- it's just to enjoy. It is so incredibly cool.
The song, "When I'm With You" reminds me of the early days of The Deltones, The Runaways, Blondie, The Pandoras, The GoGos and The Bangles.
The 'garage girl' sound of Best Coast is just too hip for words.
Manda Mosher, the award-winning Los Angeles singer, songwriter and recording artist is back home in L.A. after months on tour. Californiality finally got to interview Mosher about music, life and California.
The 34-year-old Los Angeles native is a career musician and popular performer featured at SXSW and on several XM music programs. Mosher is equally as popular as a songwriter, with recent wins for 'Pop Single of the Year', 'Rock Single of the Year', and 'Female Singer/Songwriter of the Year' at the L.A. Music Awards.
After months on the road with her band, Manda Mosher had just arrived back at her Los Angeles home. Exhausted and wanting to relax and unwind, the artist still honored our pre-scheduled interview appointment graciously, and on-time. Very professional.
Mosher's home is welcoming, cozy, and is decorated with tasteful items which reflect the depth of her intensely creative personality.
The intimate atmosphere was highlighted by the artist's own classic Southern California beauty, which was still fresh after multiple performances on her tour of many cities.
It would prove to be one of this blog's most enjoyable interviews.
I commented on her great recent TV performance on 'The Late Late Show' with Craig Ferguson on CBS, and I asked her if she was nervous.
"Yes, of course I was nervous! Being at the stage of my career where I'm appearing on TV in front of millions of viewers is new and exciting but, yes, I was extremely nervous right before I went on stage. The staff members at 'The Late Late Show' patiently coached me while calming me down in the dressing room. I am so thankful to them for their help."
Mosher shared her feelings on her newly-expanded fame and public perception of her as an artist.
"There are so many people now who see me as popping up 'out of the blue'. I guess I look like an 'overnight success' to a lot of folks. They don't know how much hard work has been required to get to this stage, though. I've been performing for 20 years and, suddenly, I'm this 'new sensation'. It's funny."
Manda Mosher's highly anticipated new album, City of Clowns, has been released on Red Parlor Records, an independent label. Mosher commented on independent labels vs. major corporate record labels.
"I love the more focused efforts of independent labels on behalf of the artists they sign. The intimate, flexible working relationship is really enjoyable. You asked if I would ever want to work with a 'major label'. Well, some of the more niche-oriented subsidiaries of the corporate labels are cool. That could possibly work for me in the future."
Californiality had been given an advance copy of City of Clowns for review. It is a very enjoyable EP of five powerful songs which could all be potential singles. I asked Mosher about the album's title in relation to Los Angeles.
"L.A. is the city I know best. As a native, I have a different perspective on what Los Angeles is all about. The album title, as well as the title of one of its songs, "City of Clowns," affectionately describes the creative, entertainment-driven nature of Los Angeles. I love my city, faults and all."
Many listeners comment that Manda Mosher's music reminds them of Tom Petty and Bob Dylan at times. The artist explained her influences and their collective impact on her songwriting.
"Years ago, I was present at a recording of a video by The Traveling Wilburys. The experience was incredible and unforgettable. At that time, I was a very young musician with a band, so to say I was impacted is an understatement."
The Traveling Wilburys were the highly successful supergroup comprised of music superstars Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and George Harrison.
"Tom Petty and Bob Dylan are my favorite songwriters, along with Leonard Cohen and Lucinda Williams. Tom Petty encouraged me when I was a teenage songwriter, and he has continued to be an inspiration throughout my life."
Other musical influences in Manda Mosher's life include legendary Southern California songwriters and musicians.
"As a girl growing up, The Runaways, and their larger-than-life members Joan Jett, Lita Ford and Cherie Currie, were role models who showed that talented, determined young girls from L.A. could really make it big. Also, The Beach Boys have always had a way of reminding me of the best of California. Their innocence and positive messages have great value."
Here's what Manda Mosher had to say about California and its impact on her life:
"What I really love about California is the atmosphere of openness that welcomes and encourages creativity. California's idealism and cultural diversity are what set it apart from all other places in the world."
Manda Mosher's favorite nonprofit charity is MusiCares, which provides a safety net of assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services cover financial, medical and personal emergencies. The Grammy-affiliated organization also focuses the attention of the music industry on human issues that impact the welfare of the music community.
"MusiCares is an extremely valuable organization for the music community which I enthusiastically endorse."
Just for fun, I wanted to name some of California's most influential female icons for quick reactions from Manda Mosher. Here's how it went:
On Maria Shriver: "A powerful person and a very strong, very cool role model for women, girls, and for all Californians."
On songwriter Diane Warren: "A champion of popular songwriting who really knows how to create material which everyone can relate to."
On Marilyn Monroe: "I have always been intrigued by her fragility, and I can clearly see how she was eaten up by the Hollywood machine."
On Cass Elliott: "Wow. What a bold lady she was, but there was always a very distinct kindness about her. Legendary."
On Barbie: "Barbie? (laughing) You threw me off with that one. Everyone loves Barbie, but she could represent other body types a little more."
On Cher: "Yeah, Cher! I love Cher. She's strong, sexy, confident, and very independent. Cher will always be fantastic."
On Joni Mitchell: "A lot of people compare me to Joni, which is flattering. Her artistry, vulnerability, strength and integrity never compromise."
On Elvira: "Did you say Elvira? Wow, Elvira! She is fantastic folklore. She has an act that nobody can follow. No one messes with Elvira!"
I was initially impressed by the talents of Manda Mosher as a songwriter and musician, so I was excited to meet the artist through a mutual acquaintance, Los Angeles indie music insider Annissa Mason.
After such a fun interview, I found Manda Mosher to be a very down-to-earth, thoughtfully outspoken individual who represents the California Woman in the most positive fashion.
Geena Davis, the Oscar-winning Hollywood actress, has now entered California politics --- officially.
Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed Davis, a Democrat, to the California Commission on the Status of Women. Her previous work with various women's groups was a factor in the governor's decision.
The commission, a nonpartisan state agency, promotes equality and justice for women and girls. Davis' appointment by the governor requires confirmation by the California State Senate.
Davis, who has starred in films like Tootsie and Thelma and Louise, is the founder of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media.
Her organization's purpose is to reduce gender stereotyping in film and television, and to increase the percentages of female characters in productions.
Geena Davis is a partner with United Nations Development Fund for Women, and she is a member of Mensa International, the society for people with high IQs that are in the statistical top 2-percent.
The California Commission on the Status of Women promotes equality and justice for all women and girls by advocating for them with the governor, the legislature and policymakers, and by educating the public about economic equality, educational equity, access to health care and violence against women.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Ronald Reagan Day into state law, officially designating February 6th of each year as a day to commemorate the 33rd Governor of the State of California.
The Great Communicator is finally legal.
"As California’s governor, Ronald Reagan made great strides in strengthening our Golden State, and as the President of the United States, his dedication to freedom and democracy changed the world," said Governor Schwarzenegger.
"With this legislation, we celebrate Ronald Reagan’s incredible legacy and his spirit of optimism. Our nation is stronger because of him, and it is important for future Californians to learn about and acknowledge the extraordinary work he did for the state and country he loved," the governor added.
Each February 6th, all public schools and educational institutions will be encouraged to conduct exercises remembering the life of Ronald Reagan, recognizing his accomplishments and the contributions he made to the Golden State.
Senate Bill 944, written by Senator George Runner (R), honors Ronald Reagan for his accomplishments and contributions to California during his long, successful life which ended in 2004.
"As the only California Governor to become President, Ronald Reagan stands out as one of our state’s greatest leaders," said Senator Runner.
"President Reagan’s many accomplishments are a model of responsibility and an inspiration to individuals around the world. It is important for California school children to study such a meaningful and positive leader," the senator added.
Despite the Democratic majority in the California State Legislature, the Reagan bill received unanimous, enthusiastic support.
A successful radio star, movie star, television star, union president, governor, U.S. president, and elder statesman, Ronald Reagan enjoyed support from Republicans, Democrats and Independents during his dynamic career in politics.
With great pride, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the new law in tribute to the conservative giant and legendary California optimist.
The signing of Ronald Reagan Day into law is supported by the majority of Californians.
Ronald Wilson Reagan, the most beloved political figure in California history, will now share his birthday with every Californian, officially.
Jay Shafer is leading a revolution that is changing consumers' perceptions of what a home is. He is the Tiny House King.
The Sebastopol, California resident's approach to house design has generated international discussion regarding big homes and the impact those houses have on the environment.
In his The Small House Book, which he self-published, Jay Shafer explains why smaller dwellings make good sense and how quality design can be achieved with less space.
Shafer has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, AOL and CBS, as well as in Fine Homebuilding magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and at the University of Iowa School of Art, where he served as Adjunct Assistant Professor.
Professor Shafer currently lives in a 96 square foot home in Northern California which he created.
Shafer has built many tiny houses under his company called Tumbleweed Tiny House Company, located in Boyes Hot Springs, California. Shafer and his company plan, build and deliver tiny houses that suit the occupants’ requirements.
Shafer's tiny houses have the necessary features of a comfortable home without unused space. What would have been transitional spaces, such as hallways, are utilized as storage spaces. Despite a minimalistic approach, the interiors have a designer feel using wooden panels and stainless steel.
"There is benefit to living in a small space," Shafer says. "Less energy consumption and less impact on the environment."
Shafer named his company after the first tiny house he built for himself in 1997. He helped establish the Small House Society in 2002. In 2003, he was commissioned by Gregory Paul Johnson to build The Mobile Hermitage which became one of Jay’s first commercially sold homes.
Jay Shafer builds his smaller designs himself and ships them by truck to consumers, and many of these smaller designs are mobile homes with built-in wheels. He founded the company because people were expressing real interest in his own small house.
The tiny houses have become a news trend owing to their eco-friendly nature and cheap expense. The buzz is incredible.
The Tumbleweed Tiny House Company builds a lot of small houses for people who cannot pay their expensive mortgages anymore. The tiny houses have wheels, so anyone can settle anywhere due to their mobility.
Jay Shafer is a social activist who, through his Tumbleweed Tiny House Company, works to improve the world of architecture, housing, art, and low-impact community living.
Shafer draws upon his experience and knowledge of music, video, photography, art, politics, public speaking, teaching, religion, history, architecture, and literature. Many call him a 'renaissance man'.
As the leader of the tiny house revolution, Jay Shafer exemplifies the innovative, revolutionary California attitude --- in a very big way.
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is mobilizing the California National Guard to fight drug trafficking and illegal immigration at California's border with Mexico.
Taking action to protect California from the escalating violence of Mexican drug cartels and murderous gangs, the governor is using the National Guard to blockade the border.
Schwarzenegger is ordering troops to assist federal border patrol agents, customs agents and immigration agents in securing the California-Mexico international border through June of 2011.
The governor stated, "The 224 additional troops that will be sent to California will provide much needed assistance to help secure our border, but this is only a beginning. We must find a more permanent solution to our broken immigration system. I will continue to urge the federal government to provide more National Guard personnel for our border."
In addition to Guard troops, Schwarzenegger can, if necessary, exercise his role as Commander In Chief of the California State Military, which protects all California borders.
The California State Military is authorized as a state defense force under the provisions of the California State Military Reserve Act. It is one of five components of the California Military Department and has legal standing as part of California's Active Militia, which the governor commands.
Schwarzenegger's 'right hand' in California's military affairs is an accomplished, highly decorated, effective military leader named Mary J. Kight.
Brigadier General Mary J. Kight was appointed by Governor Schwarzenegger this past February.
Kight commands the largest, most powerful National Guard force in America --- 18,000 Army National Guardsmen and 4,900 Air National Guardsmen.
General Kight stands solidly along side Governor Schwarzenegger in exercising all available options to protect California's interests and its citizens.
The California National Guard has announced that an initial 260 troops will head to California's southern border by the end of September. The soldiers and airmen will be selected over the next month. They will go through three weeks of specialized training in August or September.
"The military forces deployed in support of this request will not be employed in a direct law enforcement role," Governor Schwarzenegger ordered.
"The military personnel shall be armed for the purpose of self defense during the performance of their duties in support of this border enforcement effort. Any approved use of weapons shall be consistent with the California Military Department’s published rules for the use of force. To the extent that military weapons may be required, the military personnel shall deploy with issued military weapons," the governor added.
Marilyn Monroe died in her Brentwood home in 1962, the year I was born. The Hollywood blonde bombshell took her last breath right before I took my first.
On my way here, I passed Marilyn on the Stairway to Heaven. She said it would be cool with her if I crashed at her place, but she said I would have to start out with my new parents on Earth first.
Been there, done that a long time ago. Now I want Marilyn Monroe's house!
The famous Marilyn Monroe Estate in Brentwood is now for sale. Only $3.6 million! I just checked my bank balance online, and I'm a little short. Gee, and I really wanted that house. Bummer.
Marilyn's 1929 Spanish colonial-style hacienda sits behind high gates on a cul de sac in the Helenas of Brentwood. The terra cotta tile floors, original wood beamed ceilings and period hardware totally rock!
The French doors open to a private courtyard, movie star pool and a citrus grove. With four bedrooms, three baths, a formal living room, a family room, office, a poolside game room, a separate play house and a sunny kitchen, Marilyn Monroe's house is like a classic Hollywood dream.
The home even has an office, so it would be fantastic for the new Californiality world headquarters. Articles written in this house would truly be 'inspired', to say the least. Hmm...
Candidates for California governor Jerry Brown, Chelene Nightingale and Meg Whitman each need California's Latino and Hispanic voters to win the state's general election in November.
Which candidate will best honor the Golden State's rich Native American, Spanish and Mexican heritage while serving the needs of today's modern Californios?
The fight to attract California's crucial Latino electorate has Democrat Jerry Brown accusing his gubernatorial rival Meg Whitman of "saying one thing in English and something else in Spanish" in her current efforts to appear 'Latino-friendly'.
Republican Meg Whitman's campaign recently launched a billboard campaign en espanol saying that she opposes California's Proposition 187, the 1994 measure approved by voters that a federal judge later overturned.
Authored by Barbara Coe, Proposition 187 would have denied public health services and public education to illegal immigrants. Californiality recently met Barbara Coe, a longtime anti-illegal immigration activist inaccurately painted by many in the media as 'anti-Latino'.
"Legal is legal. Illegal is just that, illegal. We have laws for a reason, and our laws must be adhered to by all people. Illegal immigrants come from every nation on earth, not just from south of our border. Our society, our economy, and our well-being must be protected from those who willingly choose to break our laws," Barbara Coe told Californiality.
Meg Whitman's billboards also say that she opposes Arizona's new immigration law which requires police to question the immigration status of anyone they stop who might be in the U.S. illegally.
American Independent candidate Chelene Nightingale supports Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and her stand on illegal immigration, and states that she would support legislation similar to Arizona's as governor of California.
Nightingale is strongly pro-immigration but staunchly anti-illegal immigration.
"Let me be perfectly clear. I am an enthusiastic supporter of immigration into California. California needs new people, new ideas, and fresh perspectives every day. Immigration is what has made California the best society on earth. What I will always stand against is illegal, I repeat, ILLEGAL immigration," Chelene Nightingale told Californiality.
Nightingale continued, "Every time someone enters California illegally, it is a slap in the face to every California citizen who went through so much to do things within the law. More and more of my Latino supporters feel this way, and they know that, as governor, I will do everything in my power to serve the needs of all legal residents of California."
Earlier this year, former Governor Pete Wilson, who championed Proposition 187, voiced a radio ad for the Meg Whitman for Governor campaign saying that she would be "tough as nails" on illegal immigration.
In that ad, Whitman said, "Illegal immigrants should not expect benefits from the state of California. No driver's license and no admission to state-funded institutions of higher education".
Meg Whitman, who was living in Massachusetts when California voters approved Proposition 187, now strikes many Latino voters as being a flip-flopper with a new 'anti-187' tone.
As Whitman's campaign chairman, former Governor Pete Wilson continues to support Proposition 187 as Chelene Nightingale does.
Like Meg Whitman and Chelene Nightingale, Jerry Brown opposes 'sanctuary cities' and is against issuing driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.
Brown frequently mentions meeting United Farm Workers leader and Latino icon Cesar Chavez, but that was decades ago. Whitman spokesman Hector Barajas also speaks for many California Latinos who want answers from Jerry Brown.
"Latinos want to know what Jerry Brown is going to do for them now. Jerry Brown has no plan. Nothing. He keeps saying 'We'll talk about that later', but the election is only four months away," said Barajas.
Maria Gonzales, a middle-class property owner and businesswoman from Los Angeles, told Californiality how she feels about the candidates.
"This is 2010. These are not the old days when Latino voters could be herded around like ignorant sheep. These candidates for governor have got to tell Latinos where they really stand on immigration and stick to it. I've voted Democrat, and I've also voted Republican, but now I am looking elsewhere."
"California Skies" is a 2010 song about California by singer songwriter Mikey Waxfrom the album The Traveler .
The 26 year old composer captures emotions experienced by one who takes the time to look upward and ponder life. "California Skies" is a song that demands repeat listening.
The song's cathartic quality urges listeners to reflect, release and reaffirm.
While the lyrics to "California Skies" are beautifully expressed by Wax's vocal, the song is great enough to be covered by many different vocalists.
It has the sound of a pop standard.
Marketability aside, Mikey Wax's "California Skies" provides an instantly satisfying, thought provoking experience for listeners.
The song is a pop gem that should have been written decades ago.
Hollywood is everywhere. Hollywood is everything. There is nothing that is not Hollywood. Well, at least that's what marketing campaigns would have us all think.
I have been to many places outside of California. It's funny how exciting, glamorous and intriguing Hollywood seems to average people in Oklahoma City, Sydney or Cairo. They just can't get enough of Tinseltown.
For people who actually live in California, especially in L.A., the constant barrage of Hollywood news, celebrity interviews and ever-present cameras can affect the brain at the deepest levels --- like a lobotomy.
I think I've been permanently jaded by Hollywood.
Every which way I turn, fake boobs are in my face. It's gotten so prevalent that 'natural womanhood' is starting to look weird. Did the California State Legislature pass some bill that I missed? I try to keep up, but you never know. Maybe there's a new Department of Enhancement issuing licenses.
Here's another trippy trend in the Golden State:
Blonde Asians.
There's nothing wrong with people expressing their individuality but, when everybody else is doing the same thing, it's out of control.
Blonde hair is a well-worn California stereotype but, when Asian Californians are doing the 'Hollywood Bleachout' en masse, it seems like an Aryan Apocalypse.
You can't blame this one on MSG.
What is Hollywood doing to our brains? It's not just blonde Asians either. It's blonde Arabs, blonde Persians, and blonde African Americans too.
In a society that values physical appearance and visual appeal, it's hard not to be psychologically affected when you live here. Every event seems to require makeup, wardrobe and rehearsal --- even a trip to the supermarket.
I picked up a girlfriend who wanted to go grocery shopping with me. She made me wait forever until she was 'ready'. She kept changing outfits and re-doing her makeup until she was 'presentable'.
When we finally got into the car, she was as bubbly as a crackhead --- I was totally comatose.
When I asked her why so much needless drama just for the supermarket, she looked at me like I was insane and shrieked:
"Oh my GOD, like, what if I see somebody I know? What if people recognize me? What about all the cameras everywhere? What if my pictures end up all over the internet? Oh my GOD, whatever! Anyway, like, what happened to your TAN?"
I said that I've been super busy with gubernatorial campaigns and cultural events for the blog, and that I don't have time to just lay around getting another tan --- who the hell cares anyway? She totally went OFF on me:
"You should care! What if somebody breaks out their cell phone camera and snaps you looking like Casper The Friendly Ghost? What a nightmare. Here, put on these dark sunglasses and just channel your 'inner-tan' or something. God, I hope nobody we know sees us, much less some producer or something!"
She went on to complain that she was wearing the wrong bra --- it was from before her last 'enhancement'. Also, her hairdresser was supposed to make her 'California Blonde', but she ended up too 'Marilyn'. Travesty! How could she go on?
Her lipstick shade was, apparently, great on film but 'horrifying' close up in real life. She demanded that I drive her back home to grab a few alternative shades. I flatly refused. I got the 'silent treatment' and pouty Botoxed lips.
Whatever.
All of this drama and stress was all about being seen and possibly caught on video on the way to buy lettuce, Diet Coke and tampons. Way too 'Hollywood' some might say. I forgot to mention that she's a lawyer.
Los Angeles area singer-songwriter Brad Kirsch is one of the reasons why California is world famous for entertainment.
I caught one of Kirsch's performances last night and was completely blown away.
The 23 year old musician had played the Whisky A Go Go on the Sunset Strip in L.A. numerous times, so he was already comfortable with the venue when I arrived to listen.
When I arrived slightly late, Kirsch was singing a Tracy Chapman song as I took the last available seat for a performance of acoustic cover songs and originals.
I found out for myself what Roberta Flack was talking about when she wrote "Killing Me Softly (With His Song)" after she caught a Don McLean performance.
A sensitive singer-songwriter, Brad Kirsch reminded me of Jose Feliciano in his youth --- energetic, soulful and full of passionate energy.
Brad Kirsch's two-hour performance seemed like it was over in only five minutes. Everybody wanted more from the young singer. He gave into demands for an encore with two more songs.
I was surprised at the stamina of Kirsch's voice after so many songs --- still strong and technically tight.
Brad Kirsch really didn't need anything more than his guitar to accompany him. His expressive vocal style was adequately framed by the rhythmic chord progressions of the six acoustic strings.
Kirsch's performance was fully complete, very satisfying, and it made me want to open my wallet for an album.
The casual atmosphere afforded the singer plenty of freedom to deeply express his talent in front of ears that listened intently.
Most of the audience already knew who he was and, after his performance, many people approached Kirsch to shake hands and say how much they loved his music.
When he was done talking with fans, Brad Kirsch gave Californiality some time for an interview.
Kirsch is a native, lifelong Californian from Los Angeles. His passion for music began in childhood, and his musical tastes are eclectic.
"I have been musically influenced by so many great California songwriters and performers. It's hard to say that I'm influenced by just one artist, and it's difficult to say who I sound like. Most people say that I don't sound like anyone they've heard," said Kirsch.
Brad Kirsch has been approached by managers and record labels who, apparently, wanted to turn him into another Justin Timberlake or John Mayer.
"I have my own style and my own vision. My audiences seem to really like that. I would love to sign with a record label that capitalizes on my momentum and shares my vision. I wouldn't want to be like any other artist. I'm comfortable being myself," said the singer.
I commented on the line of women flirting with him after his performance, and I asked him what it was like to deal with such attention after every show.
"It amazes me, really. Even though I'm in a relationship, it's still great to know there's such an interest in me, and that I'm having such a favorable impact on audiences," said Kirsch.
Brad Kirsch is intelligent, professional and hard-working. I have no doubt that his musical career will be an increasingly successful one. His talent is immediately evident, marketable and bankable.
#1 California Poem on the Internet Exclusively on Californiality.com
"I AM CALIFORNIA"
I am the creative genesis persisting amid chaos; the idea made manifest.
I am the eternal state of "becoming".
Ever changing, morphing and mutating, my essence reflects the mind of my Creator.
Purity, perfection and productivity are my principles.
I am innovation; the perennially new. I am relentless forward momentum.
I am the unity of the spiritual, the mental and the physical. I am symmetry and balance.
I am the created who recreates; the blessed who blesses; the beloved who loves without prejudice.
I am expression; the vision seen; the voice heard; the thought interpreted.
Races, religions and cultures are my colors, hues and shades. Variety is my lifeblood.
I am the portrait of humanity which beckons an impassioned brush stroke from every hand.
I am relationship; always conversing, sharing, belonging, reciprocating, accepting and providing.
I am contrary; an oasis in the desert; order from chaos; beauty from ashes; hope from despair; unity from diversity; light from darkness.
I am information, communication, technology and intelligence always seeking Wisdom.
Ever the student of the Eternal, I instruct willing minds through my failures and successes.
I am the experience; the be-in; the adventure; the journey; the trip. I am interactivity and participation.
I am the ultimate; the zenith; the apex; the extreme; the max. Limitless minds are my companions into the timeless unknown.
I am to be merged with; not to simply be admired from afar. My visions are to be shared; my dreams are to be realized; my desires are to be consummated.
I am the fruit of ambition, effort and achievement. I am the rarest wine to be tasted, savored and thoroughly enjoyed, not merely collected.
Golden, priceless and breathtaking, I am the star-studded dream, the quaking vision, and the imagination on fire.
. The decision will also help California meet greenhouse gas reduction goals, according to the Commission.
vehicles.
," the governor stated.
infrastructure to be built throughout the state, meaning more electric vehicles on the road. Today’s decision will also mean less pollution, decreased reliance on costly oil, job creation and better options for consumers in California," declared Schwarzenegger.
charging stations to easily do business.
, has been released on Red Parlor Records, an independent label. Mosher commented on independent labels vs. major corporate record labels.
