Reflections on "The Rainbow Tour" 2013

I went to Asia this time around to try and land new clients, and was fairly successful.  However, the pragmatic side of me waits with detachment and baited breath to actually get a work offer out of these companies.  It's time to move on, as a business owner, as a person, and as an artist/entertainment professional.

I must explain something first:  The title "Rainbow Tour" came from the musical Evita.  Evita was beautiful, glamourous, and had that je ne sais quoi charismatic quality that can help influence things.  She did after all, help her husband Juan Peron, get his presidency and stay in power.  Regardless of the good and/or bad she did, I related to the charisma, beauty and her mission:  to make friends and influence people.

I don't want to talk about what I accomplished on this trip in this post.  I want to speak out about the things I saw, experienced and witnessed.  What I experienced was a lot of injustice.  I saw how ugly political and social agendas can be, though created with the best of intentions.  Finally I witnessed what those things can do to people and societies that affects. 

Hong Kong was interesting.  It's been three years since my last visit.  In my previous posts, I talk about how the civil rights of Hong Kongers -- The Basic Law -- is being chipped away at by Beijing.  Way before its time, in 2047.  A lot of signage was not bilingual -- English and Traditional Chinese.  It was much harder to find someone who would talk to you in English.  Though it did not bother me as much, as I utilized coping mechanisms I learned from assisting Latin American tourists at one of my jobs -- you know, the rude "I don't give a damn that you can't speak Spanish.  Just pay me and leave.  Thank you.  Bye-bye!" mentality.  I found it disturbing, as since Hong Kong has billed itself as "Asia's World City", that it isn't as international as it used to be.  The majority of the signage that was bilingual was put out by the Government, as public service announcements.

People are mad, angry, and much more into themselves, as a result of Beijing's will being enforced.  They will not have direct vote over their Chief Executive as promised.  Mandarin and the system of indoctrination of the Communist Party will be imposed upon the youth in the next year or so, which means Cantonese will be gone in China, and can only be heard in overseas Chinese communities AND the youth will not hear about Tianamen Square in their history lessons.  Even the police force is obligated to only support the pro-Beijing protesters.  The rule of law is being trampled on.

And like Tibet and Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Hong Kong is being inundated by Mainland Chinese, who lack manners and social skills, and monopolize the cities' resources, driving consumer and property prices higher, in one of the most expensive cities in the world. 

For example, infant formula, in many places, is something we take for granted.  Because of food safety issues related to the quality of local brands and US/Aussie/European stocks can be hard to get, Mainlanders arrive in HK and hoard the supply.  Retailers have imposed limits on how much they are allowed to buy, and they are reminded at Hong Kong International Airport, once more on how much they are allowed to take back to China, which is, I believe 2 canisters per party. 

Mainland Trash (or Rubbish, if one prefers), I call them, are creating unnecessary conflict in a city whose problems seem to mount with their presence. Screw the economic benefit of Mainland money into the Hong Kong economy, it has many negative effects as well.

Hong Kongers did not choose this fate.  It was decided for them, by Britain and Bejing.  They should have had the right to choose, even if this is contrary to the Central Government's One China policy.  I reckon that they are feeling disempowered, and are forced to accept the new order of things, without a fight.  I guess Maggie Thatcher decided it wasn't worth the fight and getting NATO involved.

Unfortunately, the biggest losers will not be the Chinese Hong Kongers.  It will be the expats, mainly of European decent, the Filipino/Indonesian/Malaysian contract workers, and the Indians are the decendants of the servants that the British brought with them.  These people will be constantly reminded that they don't belong here, and will never successfully be integrated into HK society.  Even with everything the Government has done to encourage diversity and integration.

A few years ago, I saw a Hong Kong Government video on the subject, where a white guy said he never had any problems dealing with anyone.  Really?  Is it because he's cloistered himself in expat circles and neighborhood, which offer a degree of protection and isolation, as well as support?  What universe was he living in?  Wow!  I wonder if he is still in Hong Kong, how he feels about things as they have evolved into now.

What doesn't help is the HK English media doesn't report on the same things that the Chinese media does.  So we get different impressions of what the reality is.  It would be SO nice if we hear and see the same things that the locals do.

Singapore was refreshing.  I felt more at home and safer than I ever did in HK.  Which is weird, because I never really had serious drama there, save the crappy customer service bullshit.  It kept its culture.  It's cleaner.  Though officially multi-lingual, English is widely spoken.  I was impressed that a Singapore Post counter clerk went from Hindi, to Chinese, to Malay, and finally when dealing with me, English in a course of 20 minutes.  Their system encourages diversity, as their history points out -- the city state was forced out of Malaysia over riots demanding equality for everyone.

Equality and prosperity comes at a price.  Though one is allowed to vote for their government, their choices are few, as the ruling party has ruled since the formation of the country.  There's a saying that is prominent with anything tourist oriented -- "Singapore is a Fine City" -- meaning on one hand, that it is a great place to visit, but on the other, one can get fined for the slightest infraction, like littering.  Chewing Gum is banned and is confiscated upon arrival.  Freedom of expression is tightly controlled.  Another joke says that the only thing that Singaporeans can legally complain about without fear of jail is food.

The city has a better planned transit system, as cars are expensive to purchase, own and maintain there.  MRT was easy to get around and had toilets at the stops.  It just felt like home.  More than Hong Kong ever did.

Malaysia is something I didn't get a chance to see much of.  However, I am reminded of Cebu when Alan and I visited in 2006.  Without the major tourist traps, casinos and traffic issues.  But my escort and friend had given me the 411 about how this country works.  Remember a few paragraphs ago I talked about equality?

There is a system that was created to distribute the wealth and social services to the poorest of Malaysians -- 60% of the country are Malay Muslims.  The Malays get preferential treatment in housing, university, social services and government jobs.  This leaves the Malaysians of Chinese and Indian decent, as well as the indigenous peoples out of this equation.  The Chinese and Indians create the bulk of Malaysian wealth, but aren't allowed to participate fully.

The elections in May were racked with allegations of fraud, and many Malaysians regard it as a joke.  One of the major issues was this system, this 'great equalizer'.  Unless this is reformed, it is reported that the Chinese and Indians will leave, creating a brain drain.  Unfortunately, the Prime Minister has plans to expand the system.

This system is very divisive.  My friend/escort only really took me to Chinese areas, as he wasn't really comfortable dealing with the Malay places.  We went to a coffee place by my hotel, and though the food was good, the Malays treated us with indifference.  It's kinda sad, really, as he should feel at home at home, anywhere he goes.

This trip was an eyeopener.  I knew there was injustice in the world, but I got to see it first hand how it affects people where they live.  My Malaysian friend, who is actually a Hong Konger reminded me:  "We are really lucky.  You're American.  I'm Hong Konger.  We can go back.  These people can't.  We have freedoms that these people don't."

(Drew's note:  you can find a lot of material I discuss in my blog posts or my Facebook posts.  I also post this critique knowing I have a lot to lose.  Following Aung Sang Suu Kyi's statement:  Use your freedom to fight for those who have none, I will do my best to be a voice in this ongoing struggle.)

#43

Thanks for all the Birthday Well Wishes. It means a lot, for this old man, to be remembered.

Professionalism matters

I do not appreciate being flipped off after I tell you that you lack the professional qualifications to be successful working for my business. Alas, karma is a biatch, may she follow you....

Beijing rejects full democracy for next HK leader

From Associated Press: Beijing rejects full democracy for next HK leader

Central Government: You are tearing away at the Basic Law bit by bit WAY before its time. What you're doing is wrong. Give the people what was promised them, don't make the handover a joke.  Direct vote was promised to them, then it keeps getting delayed, and now denied.  Hong Kong could have been an example for what China could be.  Make it mean something, other HK being another territory to control.

Malaysia bolsters affirmative action for Malays

From Associated Press: Malaysia bolsters affirmative action for Malays

This "great equalizer" is a massive fail on the part of the Malaysian government. Instead of making things better, it separates and polarizes the citizenry.  The 40% that this scheme doesn't benefit may force people to leave for lack of equity and opportunity.  It makes equality on all levels of living in that country a joke. 

Watch your f-ing mouth!!!

I value honest and direct feedback. However, some people need to know when to use a f-ing filter for their mouths, lest the recipient takes it the wrong way and the message is lost.

Improving Orlando's low-wage economy takes work

From Orlando Sentinel: Improving Orlando's low-wage economy takes work
This is proof that the economic recovery hasn't reached those who really need to benefit from it.

Amid slow economic recovery, more Americans identify as 'lower class'

From LA Times: Amid slow economic recovery, more Americans identify as 'lower class' 

We as Americans need to speak out more about the inequities in the system.  Let our government and those who influence it know this needs to be fixed.  And we need to be part of the solution.

Did Communist Party Torture Man to Death?

CNN Video: Did Communist Party Torture Man to Death?

The truth must be told, and spoken for the behalf of those who cannot speak.

The rule of law must prevail.

As the Central Government chips away at the Basic Law way before its time, we all must speak out and hold Beijing accountable for its erosion of civil liberties in Hong Kong.

My Inner Monologue sometimes

Kindness matters

Broken English, huh?

Interesting name for a clothing label. Sweatshop worker's revenge?

How do we stop racism?

The point being:  When we can refer to each other as people, rather than *, we will have moved closer towards a more inclusive society.

*factors based on physical appearance, gender/gender identification, social and economic levels, and other internal and external factors in which we tend to judge and discriminate.

Hikikomori: Your stories about refusing to leave bedrooms

Hikikomori: Your stories about refusing to leave bedrooms

One of the more touching stories in this article, which describes most of my high school experience:

This describes me, aged 11-16. As a child I had always been happy to play alone, but had never been wary of social interaction. At secondary school, I was bullied. I didn't feel I could stand my ground, so I withdrew. I didn't want to spend time with anyone. Not even my family. I would spend hours in my room watching TV, cleaning it, reading, drawing, listening to music - so long as it didn't require speaking to people. The fact that I was coming to terms with being gay was also a major factor, and I felt the world didn't want to accept me. On the odd occasions that I went outside, I was terrified about being recognised. I went to great lengths to avoid this, wearing hats, hoods and sunglasses. I broke out of the cycle when I started to find friends who would invite me out, and the bullying subsided. Once I had a social life I could be confident in, I no longer needed or wanted to stay in my room all the time. That period of my life has had a lasting impact on how I behave. I still feel the need to withdraw into my own company, although not to an extent that is abnormal. I sometimes lack confidence, and have paranoid thoughts about what people think of me. It seems I am fortunate that I managed to break free. Tristan, Bristol, UK

I eventually found the strength and courage to start making friends outside of school, which lead to my coming out.  When I did that, I was able to bolster my circle of friends and support system.  I still have issues with withdrawal, so don't let my gregarious and enthusiastic facade fool you.  Until I know you and feel safe with you, people only get to know the sides I need you to know about me.

Funny Or Not?

Asiana jokes: Racist or just bad taste?

In this case, bad taste. But it did remind me of the crank callers of my youth seeing if PBX operators would page 'Mike Hunt' over their paging systems. The funny part in both scenarios to me is the unlucky person who doesn't catch it in time and announces it, as though nothing is wrong. 

We all have made jokes about stereotypes, we just have to be aware of context and audience. One of my best friends likes to use the story of when my mom cussed him out on the phone, because she couldn't hear him on the other end. He tells it, play by play, complete with Asian accents. It's hysterical!

To me, stereotypical jokes is a matter of how it's being used, when its being used, and the target audience whether its funny or not. Some aren't really funny, some are hysterical but many are in between, provoking many different reactions. 

Which taught me this: I keep my humor to myself, and share it only with people when appropriate. Unless it has a universal theme, like cooking and burning Rice-A-Roni.

Rest In Peace, Finn

Glee Star dead from overdose

Rest In Peace, Cory.

McDonald's Can't Figure Out How Its Workers Survive on Minimum Wage

McDonald's Can't Figure Out How Its Workers Survive on Minimum Wage

Control-Shift-DUH! Large companies are so out of touch with how their employees live on what they get paid. They need to live their lives for a day, week or even a month to fully understand how much these workers are uh.... Used.

In Honor of our Servicewomen and men

In honor of those who served their country freely, defending the ideals and values of our nation and keeping the peace around the world. 

"Camo", by Kelly Zak, "Purple Heart", by Thalia Hel. For AEOStudios. 

No More War

"Last Night I Had The Strangest Dream"

Last night I had the strangest dream

I ever dreamed before

I dreamed the world had all agreed

To put an end to war

I dreamed I saw a mighty room

The room was filled with men

And the paper they were signing said

They'd never fight again

And the people in the streets below

Were dancing round and round

And guns and swords and uniforms

Were scattered on the ground

Last night I had the strangest dream

I ever dreamed before

I dreamed the world had all agreed

To put an end to war

-- Lyrics and music, Ed McCurdy

Crucifying Paula Deen: Was it necessary?

The answer for me is no. It goes for everyone -- public and private. If they express remorse, then let them redeem themselves and let it be. If they hadn't learned their lesson, then they need to be sanctioned and scrutinized. We all say things we don't mean, taken the wrong way and/or misunderstood and misused. We all know its not ok. Remind them harshly and move on.  That should take care of it. Crucify them if they are repeat offenders. Making them disappear or lose their position is a bit extreme. 

Orlando: Tops in tourism, near bottom in income

www.orlandosentinel.com: Orlando: Tops in tourism, near bottom in income

And people wonder why people in Orlando are stressed out, drive like maniacs, don't live here for very long, and if you are served outside the theme parks, are treated with disrespect and indifference.  It's frustrating.  I thought I got a bargain moving here, but I'm paying the price for doing so.  And the Republican governments and legislators here aren't helping, passing legislation that could help the poor, the working class, or the middle class.

Basic managerial skills thought

Just a thought on basic managerial skills: newbies are low knowledge/talent and high maintenance. Why? They are learning a new job or adjusting to a new environment. The old timers should be high talent/knowledge and low maintenance. 

How one manages and treats their staff will determine whether or not they will become high maintenance too. Treat us with respect, understand the line between getting the job done AND being everyone's ally and use positive motivating tactics.

I am reaffirmed

I had spent the last year wondering why, after 9 years of training and facilitating classes to a few thousand employees, I still received the praise and respect of many people. After the disaster with a certain co-worker last night, I went in with the f-all attitude. As the night went on, I had four very meaningful interactions with guests and figured out how to deal with that co-worker, and a great time today. The fourth person even blessed me and my family after I did what I did. It was after those, it was reaffirmed WHY what I do still matters. It may be old school, but the storyline is still important.

Keep it clean

The Taylor Chapman post has gotten a lot of attention from many readers.  And I have gotten a lot of colorful responses because of it.  I thought I was profane with my use of swear words in this and other posts in my blog, but the responses I had to screen were much more offensive.  So therefore, I was only able to share only one response.


I don't use the C-word lightly.  I reserve it for those who have wholeheartedly offended me or others by their acts and/or deeds.  It's a very disempowering word, for both the subject, and the part of the body that it refers to.  So, if I feel if one deserves being called that word, then, I shall use it.  Otherwise, it sends shivers down my spine if it is used like a common swear word, like shit, fuck and damn, because the C-word should be used sparingly and only when deserved.

I welcome responses to my posts.  Please keep it as clean as much as you can while expressing the essence of your feelings.  I know one can be articulate while dropping every other word as a swear word, since that was how I talked as a young community activist in the 1990s.  However, it can be overkill and could risk losing the overall message you are trying to convey.  Since the audience is everyone, I want to make sure you are able to share your thoughts and feelings with everyone, as I have with all of you.

Compassion Exercise

A guest shared this with me. Very profound and totally worth sharing. Namaste!

eBay Rant -- Part 2

My eBay rant -- they suck

eBay used to be a great place to sell and market stuff, and is a big moneymaker for me.

But, between the buyers that abuse the system, the sellers trying to scam, and the need for more regulation, rules and penalties for the rule breakers, it totally blows.

They sent me a list of 300 items -- item numbers only, no description -- that needed updated pictures that meet their fucking standards.  Half those pics met those standards AND these were not easy to fucking find to revise.  Then I tried to upload them, and they wouldn't let me.  I just spent 6 hours of my damn life doing something they're making me do, to be told I can't. 

I sent two bitchy emails about how inefficient this is.  Yes, they gave us warning, but they should have used their stupid Turbo Lister program to tell us of non-compliance, like it screens everything we try to list for duplication, wording in violation of terms of service, things we forgot to include in a listing, etc.  INSTEAD of giving a list of only numbers what needs to be revised.  I could have been more proactive if I actually knew what the items are and also editing the inventory -- the original -- item listing for future use.

Trying to talk to them is no use.  At this time of the night, if they're still open, I'll be talking to some idiot Filipino outsourced customer service person who can only say "I'm sorry" and not be a part of a solution, that many eBay sellers like myself are pretty pissed off about.  It's not that they won't, but they're trained to read from a script, don't utilize critical thinking skills or creating problem solving.

And now, I'm having issues trying to fix 'errors' and uploading.  Can anything be easier with eBay anymore?!?  It's 345am, I'm fried, tired and really need to get to bed.  Grrr!!!

A funny quote about Capitalism

Steve: "Hank, did you just scam us?"
Hank: "No, but capitalism does require a flexible morality."
-- From Sullivan and Son

Another reason to resent the Republicans

Their code words are so anti 'the people', it's not even funny!  They remind me of those who practice Confuscianism, where in order to look good and safe face, will deflect and avoid responsibility for their actions, and instead, blame others for why 'the system' doesn't work.  GOP legislators make me sick.

The Irony of It All

First Marvel, then the Muppets, Pixar, and now Star Wars....  What next? 

Corporate monopoly at its finest!

Taylor Chapman -- What a cunt!

I hate to use words like this, but what a fucking nasty cunt! People like her need to be shot or be sent to a third world country to scrounge for her food. Better yet sent to a prison in a third world country, where she can eat bugs while waiting to be executed. 

OR the alternative, since she's probably regretting her actions now:  She should lose her right to live here as a citizen and sent to a country where she can no longer enjoy the same comforts she abuses. No cash, designer clothing, smart phone, warm water, cars, safe edible food, or even Dunkin Donuts.  She should live on the streets begging for her supper or a safe place to sleep.

There are other ways to resolve issues, without abusing the customer service resolution process, or just plain abusing the employees.  Shame on her.

But as it is said, karma's a bitch, right?

For Tianamen Square

In memoriam of June 4, 1989, the anniversary of the protests at Tianamen Square. Let us not forget the tyranny of a government, but not lose hope that someday, the truth will see the light, and national reconciliation of this and other Central Government wrongdoings will begin. 

Karma's a bitch, isn't it?

The three of you -- and others -- were promoted way too fast, without the benefit of proper training and development. You got away with stuff because you lied, stretched the truth, and deflected blame and responsibility onto unsuspecting others, like me, who after standing up to you, is persona non grata. And now, your tactic of self-destructing your own event so you can blame a lawsuit you lost is just lame. The planning for this event is showing all your weaknesses and shortcomings for all to see. The three of you will not survive this. Karma's a bitch, isn't it?

Pug Pic

Gau can't make up her mind -- the rock or the fire hydrant. And it's going to rain soon. 

Making amends, out of nothing at all....

From Paul Casteneda, Success Coach

Sometimes, you will never have the opportunity to make something up to someone, to make amends, to make things right. This may be for a variety of reasons: death, distance, the desire of the other party, a closed door. Best you can do in this situation is release the intention of apology into the universe, forgive yourself and move away from guilt, learn the lesson that your misstep taught you and never travel down that same road again.

Travelers, learn some manners!!!

Chinese, Brazilians and other South Americans, even my fellow Americans and assorted international travellers....   Learn some fucking manners! Your service providers will care about you more and will be more sincere about helping you. Bad behavior is a turn off, as it causes us not to care about you or the service we give you. Though travelling as private citizens, you are representatives of your country, and how one acts is the impression of how people in your home country behave. From CNN.

China calls on citizens to be 'civilized'

Ab and Bitch, I mean Abercrombie and Fitch

 

As a former Ab and Fitch fan, I don't agree with the message and images they're trying to pawn as acceptable and normal. Think high school kids teasing and bullying the others because they are (fill in blank). This is a label of abuse, perhaps on the same level of the garment factories that make this stuff.

 

Ab and Bitch will never go away until people realize that this brand perpetuates the wrong concepts about body image AND how people should look AND treat each other.   I can't in good conscious wear their label anymore.  It helps that they are priced out of my poor starving artist budget.

 

Did I mention I miss wearing their pants and shorts? They hide my sorry excuse of a waistline.

Proper language, please

The ability to communicate properly is important to me. Taking the time to write and speak properly tells a lot about how one presents themselves. Not a snob, just very aware that people do judge me based on those merits alone also.

What good are rules?

Uh.... One of the reasons people are working my last nerve: what good are rules, guidelines, laws, policies, etc. when they are applied inconsistently and when convenient? They were put there for a reason. Yes there are exceptions, but it's annoying when there's no respect for them.

Thing about friends....

From Paul Castaneda

NEW DAWN, NEW DAY, DAY 116:

Two of the hardest, but most liberating lessons I had to learn: one, sometimes I am just going to have to accept being friends with two people who will never again be friends or friendly and it is not my job to "fix it". Two, there are just some people that will never accept my attempts at making amends for past actions and I have to accept their decision and stop giving them space in my heart, head and life.

Living Alone, Older, or By Yourself A Lot?

Something that I just thought of -- if living alone, by yourself a lot, or uh.... 'older', create a system of communication with a network of family, friends, and neighbors that you trust so if they don't hear from you within an established time frame, they can start worrying about you and do the necessary things to make sure you're OK. You don't have to divulge in details, just send a sign that you're fine.

Whole lot of stupid

A whole lot of stupid, coming from a whole lot of idiocy. Deep breaths.... But be warned, if one hits that stupid button way too many times today, I might just have to wreck their career, even before it starts.  Fighting the urge to run to WalMart to get a Nerf baseball bat right now. Need to uh, hit some balls. Yeah, that's what I was going to do. Hit some balls.... Tired of dealing with this whole lot of stupid.

NEVER DO THIS TO A PERSPECTIVE EMPLOYER, PART 2 (donny003@cfl.rr.com/Donald "Donte" Culp)

From donny003@cfl.rr.com:

Donte Culp	3:09 PM (1 hour ago)
to me

Dear Disrespectful Dipshit,

Go fuck yourself. Who tha fuck r u????

Funny thing just like me, nobodies ever heard of u, what do u do donkey??????

Small world and nobody knows who u r just some dipshit trying to make something out of nothing with interns meaning you can't afford shit ur a low brow studio.

Frankly after reading and looking at ur pathetic website(I have too, oh)this I can tell ur a book smart pussy with no ideas, read another book and try and steal people's ideas to make them urs.

How many people do u employee??????

My resume may not be what ur looking for yet book smart pussies can't handle life or what comes out,I've lived and partied like a rockstar but I still don't act like I am better than people cause people disappear all tha time.

Very rude buddy think ur better than people, GO FUCK URSELF+UR COMPANY SMALL TIME NOBODY!!!BITCH!!!

GO FUCK URSELF,

       DONALD:)

P.S. I ALREADY GOT INTERNSHIP:) TESTING

Another email from him

TIME WILL TELL WANNA BE, JUST CAUSE U PUT IT WITH NO CURSE WORDS U THINK U CAN DISRESPECT SOME+CALL IT CONSTRUCTIVE, I GAVE U CRITICISM WHICH OBVIOUSLY U CAN'T TAKE, TAKE UR OWN ADVICE TO HEART….COCKY BASTARDS LIKE U GIVE INDUSTRY A BAD NAME+R TOXIC, IF THEY KNEW UR NAME….GOOD LUCK;)

My response

Donald,

With that attitude, you will not go anywhere.

People like you give the industry a bad name.  And because we rejected you and gave you constructive criticism, and gave us nastyness in return, means you will not go far.  Belittling someone or a company because you didn't like what you read, will also get around, as people in the industry talk to each other.  You just committed a serious sin.

People like you are wannabes, and will never get anywhere, because wannabes are toxic to the profession and industry.  Until you decide to change your mindset and attitude, no one will want to deal with you, that is how toxic you are.

I would take the same advice you just gave us, and take it to heart. 

Good luck with your pursuits. 

My original email with critique and feedback

Donald,

Thank you for your submission.  We have received your resume. 

After reviewing it, a few questions come to mind:

What do you know about us?
Have you done any research about what we do?
How do your skills apply to what we do?
What have you done in the industry?
Why are you interested in what we do?
Why do you want to learn what we do?  Are you passionate about learning about special effects?
What are your proficiencies in what we do?
Where are you at in your professional development/training/education?  What relevant coursework have you taken?

How will this help you in pursuing your art/craft?

Frankly, after reading this, I'm glad that you can potentially build a set for either stage or film/TV, are experienced in the field of customer service, and have applicable computer skills, you have not told us why we would be a good fit.  Nor have you told us what you can bring to our organization, or even, apply your work experience, education and knowledge to what we do.  It looks like you just saw the word internship on our website, and sent us a letter of interest with experiences that have NOTHING to do with Special Effects, without showing the respect to the person reading this.  By sending a 'blanket' letter of interest and a general resume, it comes across like you don't care.  Which means, we don't either. 

Should you be embarrassed by what you have submitted to us?  Yup.  This may sound cold, but our training as professionals have taught the individuals that work for for us the importance of self promotion, image presentation, and professionalism. What you have submitted does not inspire or compel us to continue the conversation.

We offer these suggestions for future job and internship searches:
Do your research.  You need to tailor whatever you submit, to the prospective company.
Tie your experiences into how they can be used in their business.
We don't care about your work experience in real life.  We care about the experience in the industry.  A list of credits of what you've done AND a website, a comp sheet or a DVD demo reel that displays your work goes a long way to demonstrate skills and committment.
Tell the perspective company these things:  why you want to work with them, what you can offer,  how your experiences can help them, AND where you're at in your professional development and education. 

You must sell yourself and your professional skills very quickly, regardless of how you contact someone -- the first paragraph of an email or letter sets the tone about how the reader feels about your submission -- or we don't care, and the resume ends up in the trash or deleted.

We will keep your resume on file, in the event we can use you in the future.

Thank you for taking the time to write to us.  We hope the suggestions and critique will assist you in the future.

There are limits to posting publically

I allow a lot of latitude to what my Facebook peeps post on my wall, allowing for a diverse exchange of trains of thoughts and opinions, there are just some things that are just unacceptable and downright offensive. I exercise the right to hide said posts, limit how much I see from you, or just outright unfriend you, freely, and the feelings are reciprocal. 

Lesson here is: please remember in the online world, there are still limits of what is acceptable to post publicly.  I strive for a PG-13 rating at all times.

Besides, this is what blogs and websites are for:  To express oneself in a forum that is considered their space and which is not necessarily public, where the audience actually wants to specifically read what you post -- uncensored and unrestricted -- and the ratings and responses of said posts, are more than PG-13.

Happy Easter 2013

Love,
Me and my pug

Yes, this is an enema twin pack

I dedicate this to those who need to be cleansed of their stuff. 

I have concluded there are people that need to use this, and often, as cleansing seems to clear a few things out, shall we say.

 

To all those who annoy, aggravate or anger me, a dedication

And I mean this in a kind, loving and compassionate way.... (evil laugh)

For Equality and Justice For All

So anti Florida Hospital

I really hate Florida Hospital.... Demanding prepayment for a procedure that we don't even know what the final total for it is. They called me, demanding I make payment arrangements on Monday.  They asked me today about financial arrangements when I went in for pre procedure tests.  Talk about Christ and the Moneylenders in the temple.

There's a time and place to have the discussion.  AFTER the procedure.  AFTER the totals have been added up and my insurance portion has actually been applied.  AFTER I get the bill.

That is just as bad as demanding prepayment for ER services while the patient is under sedation, which is what they did to my other half. We were so offended, I had the financial services idiot escorted out of the exam room.  We are not in a Third World Country, where payment for services is required at that time, and shouldn't be treated as such. I understand that they have bills to pay and are trying to be proactive to avoid financial losses, but this is the wrong way to go about it!!!  

What pisses me off even more, is I received better treatment overall during worker's comp injuries through one of my other employers, which just happens to be one of the largest employers in Orlando, and is one of their partners. They need to treat everyone equally, with respect and dignity.

Never do this to a perspective employer

Subject:  Intern
 
My name is (name deleted) I’m a student at UCF. I’m working on my bachelor’s degree. My major is cinema studies. I’m available Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. My resume is below....

(What follows is a list of work experience that has nothing to do with what I do.)

-----

My response:

Dear (name deleted)

We have received your resume.  After reviewing it, a few questions come to mind:

What do you know about us?
Have you done any research about what we do?
How do your skills apply to what we do?
What have you done in the industry?
Why are you interested in what we do?
Why do you want to learn what we do?
What are your proficiencies in what we do?
Where are you at in your professional development/training/

education?
How will this help you in pursuing your art/craft?

Frankly, after reading this, I'm glad that you can work with children, first aid certified, have an AA from (school deleted) and have applicable computer skills, you have not told us why we would be a good fit.  Nor have you told us what you can bring to our organization, or even, apply your work experience, education and knowledge to what we do.  It looks like you just saw the word internship on our website, and sent us a letter of interest with experiences that have NOTHING to do with Special Effects, without showing the respect to the person reading this.  By sending a 'blanket' letter of interest and a general resume, it comes across like you don't care.  Which means, we don't either. 
 
Should you be embarrassed by what you have submitted to us?  Yup.

Consider yourself extremely lucky, that we took the time to respond to this, as most people would be so offended and enraged by the lack of professional consideration, this would end up in trash, literally and figuratively.  However, we believe in helping fellow artists, to help them elevate themselves to higher standards, so we offer a few words.
Advice to save you from further professional embarrassment:
Do your research.  You need to tailor whatever you submit to them.
Tie your experiences into how they can be used in their business.
We don't care about your work experience.  We care about the experience in the industry.  A list of credits of what you've done AND a website or a comp sheet that displays your work goes a long way to demonstrate skills and committment.
Tell the perspective company these things:  why you want to work with them, what you can offer,  how your experiences can help them, AND where you're at in your professional development and education. 

You have to sell yourself and your professional skills very quickly, regardless of how you contact someone -- the first paragraph of an email or letter.  Or we don't care, and the resume ends up in the trash or deleted.
 
We are not mad at you.  We are appalled that prospective interns, such as yourself, have demonstrated lack of professionalism by committing some serious job/internship hunting sins.

We wish you many successes in your internship search.  We hope that this diatribe helps you be more focused, precise, and professional to others that you will be submitting to, as not to waste their time, as you have ours.
 
No response is required or necessary. 

Very Truly Yours,
Me

 

Shhh.... Just listen....

We all have time to voice our opinions. What we don't usually make time for is to actually listen to what someone says. When I let it out, I just want people to listen to me vent, and not give me opinions. If I wanted advice, I'd ask for it, because otherwise I prefer to listen to my own counsel in most cases. One of the secrets of building relationships with anyone is the ability to just let someone talk. Because that someone needs to express a few things, and chose you to express it to. Listening is a gift and an art, don't throw it away.

Eva must think I'm an idiot

You asked about me to a third person. Try asking me to my face. Or if you were just being nice, save those words for when you really mean it or actually care. 

Eva, you must think I'm an idiot to fall for that.  If you honestly believe that, you're the idiot, as I'm really over the games you and your staff play.  But there are people that continue to tolerate that.  I will not.

I can see through the 'correctness of your thinking'.  The karmic circle will come and haunt you.

My attitude isn't toxic verbal vomit, I'm telling you how it is in my world.

The Pope, Part 2

In Habemus Papum Feline, I mentioned I can excuse the Pope's anti-gay efforts in Argentina.  I would like to expand on that.

Whilst I don't believe that religion has the right to oppress people just because the people in question are contrary to what that church believes in, I do feel that in time, as the Pope's efforts to reach out to the flock expand to the masses, the efforts will expand encompassing the fight against all forms of social injustice, including eliminating all forms of discrimination, as all of God's children are equal in His eyes.  The more the Church will see that, then change will eventually happen.  However it will be a process, rather than an event, and will probably stretch beyond Francis and many of his successors.

It gives me faith that real change will happen.

My Pug's Facebook Page

Gau The Pug's Facebook Page Link (Click to visit)

Yes, I have created a Facebook page for my Pug.  Like I don't have enough to do.  Please feel free to visit and like.

Habemus Papum Feline

Yes, Pope Francis has some issues with gays and assorted social issues, Argentina's Dirty War, and President Cristina Fernandez Kirchner amongst others, but he gives me hope.  Especially after Pope Benedict, who I have extreme hatred for as the man who guided Church doctrine, told gays that they get what they deserved, referring to the AIDS crisis in full swing.  I hope Francis swings the priorities towards the people, and not doctrine and Church traditions.

This picture gives me levity in light of all that has transpired. 

If a cat were pope.... 

McDonald's: Stop exploiting guestworkers.

McDonald's: Stop exploiting guestworkers. (Click here to sign petition)

McDonald’s has just been caught hijacking a program that’s supposed to allow young people to come to the U.S. for cultural exchange programs and professional training. Instead, the fast food giant used it as a source of cheap, exploitable labor.

Students from Latin America and Asia found themselves working at McDonald’s for minimum wage. But their take-home pay was far lower after exorbitant deductions for employer-owned housing. If they quit or were dismissed, they would lose their visas and be deported, a threat their boss constantly dangled over them.

They were sometimes required to work for 25 hours at a time with no overtime. They were housed eight to a room in substandard housing and expected to be ready to turn up for work at any time with only 30 minutes notice. And to add insult to injury, the students paid $3,000 each for the privilege.

But these students aren’t just sitting down and taking the abuse. With the support of the National Guestworker Alliance, many of them walked off the job in protest. And one of the students, Jorge Rios, has launched a petition with our friends atCoworker.org. He writes:

My name is Jorge Rios. I’m a student guestworker from Argentina who came to the U.S. on the State Department’s J-1 Summer Work Travel Program, together with other students from Latin America and Asia.

We paid $3,000-4,000 each to come to the United States on this program, expecting a cultural exchange and good work that would let us earn back this money over three months and travel a bit at the end.

Instead, we became exploited workers at McDonald’s restaurants in Pennsylvania. We had terrible working and housing conditions. We faced threats, stolen wages, grease burns up and down our arms. We were only used to enrich our employer.

When we talked to the U.S. workers alongside us, we learned that they were being exploited too. They told us they also faced too few hours, threats from managers, and unpaid overtime.

This is not the America we believed in. We believe America is a beautiful country, where everyone can have respect and fair treatment at work. We decided to stand up for ourselves, for other J-1 student guestworkers, and for U.S. workers. We respectfully ask that.

These students are taking their campaign on the road. They’re heading to McDonald’s corporate headquarters outside Chicago to demand a meeting with CEO Don Thompson. All along the way, they’ll be delivering petitions to McDonald’s managers, and the more of us that sign, the bigger the impact will be.

So we need to act now let McDonald’s know that its customers are paying attention to this case and that we’ll hold it accountable if it doesn’t follow through.

(Drew's disclaimer:  Yes, I also work for a company that also uses student guestworkers, I cannot comment on that either.  What I will say, is, if the efforts with McD's is successful, then other companies that use them will start paying attention.)

Robert Reich On Why Raising The Minimum Wage Is One Of The Smartest Things We Can Do

From MoveOn.org:  Robert Reich On Why Raising The Minimum Wage Is One Of The Smartest Things We Can Do
(Click link to watch)

It's important that people understand that raising the minimum wage will actually help us all.

Why won't I have anything to do with you?

There are reasons I don't trust people: lack of transparency, lack of honesty/integrity, lack of respect, and a proven history of undermining me, my efforts, and my aspirations covertly. If you're going to screw me, at least do it so everyone including me, sees and knows it, and not get hit blindly later with it. 

Basically, if you don't like me, that's fine.  At least have the courtesy to let me know where I stand.  That way I know who my enemies are, no secrets, no games and everything is out in the open.  Truth is freeing and liberating, don't you think?

And people wonder why I won't have anything to do with them, except on a superficial level, if at all....

Shane Koyczan: "To This Day" ... for the bullied and beautiful

Very beautiful and profound!  One of the best 10 minutes spent!

Don't be a douchebag FL TAG GZX3U

Driving northbound on Forsyth. This douchebag was riding my ass at 45mph in a 35mph zone. Passes me in a no passing zone on a blind curve. Took a pic of this jackass. He tried to take a pic of me and my car. Whatever. Road rage and driving recklessly is a bad combo, regardless why. Since he was in an SUV, I guess that he was trying to show me how small his cock was!

A realization about my job

Just realized that I was MUCH, MUCH happier when my commitment to a certain employer was limited to 2-3 times a week. It made it much easier to walk away and leave it all behind. Not that I don't care about what I do or don't love the people I work with, it was a lot easier to live a balanced life by having more time to pursue the things I really do care about.

Not to worry, there are certain plans in play right now, so hopefully, I will be able to get to a happier place by the summer.

Associated Press: In wealthy Hong Kong, poorest live in metal cages

Associated Press: In wealthy Hong Kong, poorest live in metal cages

I watched a documentary a few years ago in HK on TVB about this. It totally pissed me off, because there really aren't the social safety nets people think there are, and the ones that do exist aren't as comprehensive, as say, their former colonizer, Britain. Then a friend had me meet her in Sham Tsui Po, her neighborhood, to show me how most people live. It was an eyeopener, especially when they come to visit me in Causeway Bay, they enter another world.  I will never bitch about my tiny luxury hotel room in Causeway Bay (one of the high end shopping districts) again.

Another thought about dislike....

Paul Castaneda: Success Coach

 

There is a modicum of truth to the adage that we dislike in others that which we dislike in ourselves. Just as true, however, is that we dislike in others that which we wish we could emulate and be. Even more distressing is that it is often something we are quite capable of, but we simply do not do.

Was it worth it?

Read article about: Alois Bell, dumb self-righteous cheapskate cunt.

This article is about the person, who was a pastor of her church who wrote "I give God 10%, why do you get 18%?" on her Applebee's check.  The Applebee's employees involved took a pic of it and the pic went viral.  As a result, the waitress and others were fired, because it publically embarrassed her. 

Why do I call this alleged woman of God a cunt?  Stupid idiot should have considered the consequences of her actions before she escalated it into something irreversible. Oh yeah, the 'righteous' don't need to consider such things, God is on her side. She set herself up for future abuse, because the employees (in an unprofessional manner) called her out publically. Was it worth it, Alois Bell? Was getting people fired because you did something really stupid worth it?  After all this, are you really fit to teach the word of the Lord?

Happy Year Of The Snake!

K'ung Hei Fat Choi!  Happy Year of the Snake.

I chose this artwork, as Dragon Dances are part of the celebration, because they chase away the evil spirits.  So my gift to you is good wishes and good spirits and energy during the coming year!

The US is not a socialist state

A few days ago, I saw a bumper sticker that said:

Socialism.  I didn't vote for it.

WTF?!?  Since when did this country turn socialist?

We still have a free market economy.  The economy isn't centrally planned or dictated by the government.  Our citizens aren't taxed to the hilt for comprehensive social services like medical care.  Most of our basic personal freedoms aren't sacrificed to benefit the state -- the social order, where we sacrifice many of what one would consider basic human rights to the government in order to guarantee prosperity, doesn't exist in the US.

The US is FAR from socialist.  It is very much free market capitalism that runs this country.

It offends the fuck out of me that just because President Obama is trying to achieve economic/social/political equality for ALL Americans, there are people that have the gall to call his goals socialist.

Didn't a Republican create Social Security and other safety nets that many of us have used at one time or another?  Didn't a Republican abolish slavery and then fought a war to keep the country together?  Didn't Republicans enact many of the laws that protect American workers from exploitation and harm?  Or try this:  Didn't Republicans create the laws that protect business and insure that everyone has an equal chance?

Yet Republicans are the ones that want to dismantle or make a mockery of these innovations that make our system of government unique and the envy of the world.

People are too gullible these days and are willing to listen to whatever they wish, as long as it fits into their beliefs.  However, they need to learn how to see things from a balanced point of view.  Learn how to get the facts from various sources.  It's time that the mentality "Just because so-and-so says it's the truth, it is the truth" ends.  That's pure bullshit.  People like these are one of the reasons all is all messed up with this country, because they are too willing to let people feed them the truth, instead of discovering it for themselves.

Case in point:  One of my closest and dearest friends, a staunch Republican, constantly complains that the majority Democratic government in his state, is one of the many reasons why he can't get ahead.  What he fails to see -- and I decline to point this out to him, as we have a compact that whilst we can bitch about the other party, we will not try to change our respective opinions, and engage in debate -- is that his party is a primary source of why he can't.  Their policies don't support him, his needs or his aspirations.  However, with the advent of the Affordable Health Care Act, he hopes to benefit from one of the few pieces of bipartisan legislation that is President Obama's legacy.

Anyway, there are people that may feel my line of reasoning flawed.  Perhaps it is.  But at least I'm looking at the whole picture from multiple points of view and trying to be objective.

Just because you can....

Paul Castaneda: Success Coach

 

Just because you can do a thing does not mean you should. Just because you can say a thing does not mean you should. Everything has consequences. Every word, every action. Intended and unintended. Forethought is often lacking in today's world of instant gratification...and we are all the poorer for it.