tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55162697742258523042024-03-18T21:27:09.096-07:00janine cooper ayresthoughts - stories - opinions - ideasJanine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-37191336907366171452016-09-07T11:55:00.002-07:002021-10-29T22:07:26.199-07:00To dream, perchance to dream some moreSomehow I never got that message -- the one that says, "You only get one chance in life, kid, and that's it!" I've never been one to have just one goal or dream! I tend to have several of them spinning at once in my little head and heart. And I suppose they won't stop spinning until I leave this world behind or until I run out of life-force energy.<br />
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That's not to say that I don't get bummed out when a dream of mine doesn't come to fruition. It's pretty heartbreaking in fact. That's why it's all the more important to have another one waiting on the sidelines!<br />
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Dreams are a funny thing. Some days they are alive and well, then suddenly and unexpectedly on another day -- dead in the water! The sun always comes back out though and when it does I'm ready to give it another go! Because making dreams come true is part of what life's all about. At least for me.<br />
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Being a dreamer can be distracting and annoying for those around you. (Here's where I have to apologize to my friends and family who have endured my pipe dreams and half spun crazy schemes for decades now -- Sorry 'bout that!)<br />
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If I have any advice for anyone out there pursuing their dreams I would say that it's important to try to stay grounded in the real world while doing so. Watch your budget - don't over-use your credit card or ask for big loans from family and friends (unless they have more money than they know what to do with). Do your best to<u> dream responsibly</u>!<br />
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I'm a believer in age appropriate dreaming too. I don't think it's realistic to dream of making the major leagues as a ball player and just getting started at the age of fifty, or hoping to become a ballerina at forty. Having unrealistic dreams is a set-up for misery! <br />
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As I grow older I really try to merge my dreams with helping others in some way. As an example, I love to paint and sell my art, so collaborating with others and painting something for them that is truly meaningful takes me outside of myself and my orbit, which is a good thing because I get pretty tired of orbiting around my dumb self!<br />
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Living in a very dry and fire prone area of California during a five year drought has been a real drag and very anxiety provoking, but it has also been oddly productive. It has somehow lit a fire in my psyche as I realize that nothing lasts forever. Any day could be our last. No time to waste! Thoughts like these motivate me to get off my ass and do things that I would normally keep putting off.<br />
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One of those things has been to publish several short stories that I've written over the years. This past month I've made it a goal to re-write some of them, write a few new ones, edit them and get them out there! With the help of Amazon.com (Thank you Jeff Bezos!) I can check another dream off of my list -- I am now a published author! Through CreateSpace, which is the print publishing branch of Amazon.com, I learned how to format my book and create a cover for it, making it available not only as an e-book but a physical old fashioned paperback that can be held in your hands or used to swat flies with!<br />
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I am excited to announce that this book of short stories (13 tales in all) is now available!! The first story can be read for free by clicking on one of the links below.<br />
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And if by chance, you feel as though your dreams are behind you -- or that it's too late -- or you're too old -- or you don't have enough money -- or... (fill in the blank here _______________), please consider dreaming a new dream. It's not hard to do. There's no one but yourself to stop you from growing a new dream in your heart and in your mind. Life is meant to be lived and experienced and it is a gift, so please don't waste time with excuses or procrastination techniques. Fires can start anywhere! I hope I've helped to light one in your imagination to keep on dreaming -- and dreaming -- and yep, perchance to dream some more!<br />
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-6971300796861700372016-04-11T19:19:00.001-07:002016-04-11T20:31:56.551-07:00100 songs and counting I started writing songs a very long time ago. So, when I recently heard about a website called Bandcamp I was really happy to discover that it's a place where I could archive my songs and some of my art too.<br />
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I've spent thousands of hours and dollars too, writing and recording my songs. So I am incredibly relieved to have found a place for them on line where people can listen to them (for free if they so choose). I'm slowly extracting them off of dozens of CDs that are gathering dust in my music studio. So far, I've archived over a hundred. I'm hoping to add another hundred before it's all said and done.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">One of my favorite songwriters (Joni Mitchell) once said,<b> "</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><b>At the point where I'm trying to force something and it's not happening, and I'm getting frustrated with, say, writing a poem, I can go and pick up the brushes and start painting. At the point where the painting seems to not be going anywhere, I go and pick up the guitar."</b> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">I can really relate to this quote and I'm thankful for the possibilities of being able to write songs and paint pictures. I may never gain the kind of notoriety or fame that Joni Mitchell has gotten, but that's all right. A true artist isn't interested in fame or fortune. It should not be the motivating reason to express oneself. And if it is, are you really an artist in the first place?</span></span><br />
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So, for now, it's 100 songs and counting.. which you can access by clicking on the link below. As long as I'm healthy enough, I'm never going to stop writing songs and painting pictures. It is a big part of who I am.<br />
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<a href="https://janinecooperayres.bandcamp.com/">https://janinecooperayres.bandcamp.com/</a></div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-16609890759577059182016-02-26T21:30:00.002-08:002016-02-26T21:30:28.938-08:00Remembering Big Al<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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There are some dates, when they come around each year that cause my mind to drift - to ponder, remember and reflect. February 26th is such a date for me. Why, you might ask? Because this was Big Al's birthday. </div>
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And who was Big Al, you might ask? He was a small Lebanese man who was larger than life! Hence the nickname, Big Al.<br />
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I met him in 2003 while working on the Spielberg movie, <b>The Terminal</b>. He was there working as a background actor and I was too. And it wasn't long before we became fast friends. The days on the set were long and even though he was over 80 years old he would wake up at 4:00 in the morning and make the trek to Lancaster from Inglewood each day for three weeks for a very early call time. (With the help of his good friend and talented A.D., Dave.) After the movie was finished filming Big Al and I remained friends. Since I never had the opportunity to meet my own grandfathers, he took on that role for me. <br />
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One of my favorite memories with Big Al was playing Backgammon with him. He was sharp as a tack and won most every game! He was also quite the chef. One of his specialties was hummus. He would make it from scratch and it was really delicious! (See his recipe below.)<br />
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Big Al was born in Beirut, Lebanon on February 26,1919. Although he died on December 24, 2005, he will always be in my heart. He may be gone, but I will never forget him.<br />
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-72718790240157766192016-01-19T12:05:00.004-08:002021-10-29T21:58:46.975-07:00To Catch An Embezzler<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">In May of 2007 I took on a temp. job. It was a two week assignment which was a perfect fit for me considering I am quite challenged when it comes to committing to anything long term.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">Within a week I was offered a full-time position. I smiled and thanked the President of the company, and explained to him that I was a free spirit and didn't like to get tied down to any one job in particular. He told me to sleep on it. So I did. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 115%;">And then the next morning I accepted the offer.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">Fast forward five years. Yep. Still there! And accumulating an absolute fortune (for me, any way) in my 401-K which was why I decided to accept the offer in the first place. And now I was being asked to take on more responsibility - processing checks - accounts payable and receivable type stuff. But by this time I could barely get myself out of bed in the morning. I was beginning to get pretty depressed and my body was even getting in on the act (anxiety attacks, headaches, frozen shoulder, etc.). Office work was not what I moved to Los Angeles to do so many years ago. (Not that there's anything wrong with it...) So, I declined that offer and even took a demotion as I began planning my escape. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">The question that popped up in my head often during that time was, <b>"Why am I still here?"</b> And then there was the other question, <b>"How can I get the hell out of here?" </b> Part of the dilemma was that I absolutely loved my co-workers. They had become like family to me. So, in leaving that job it would be like leaving my 'work' family! </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">One of those co-workers who had become like family was the one who was hired in my place to do accounting type stuff. She was a lively, attractive woman who had impeccable taste in fashion. I don't think she wore the same outfit twice and the jewelry and shoes she wore were amazing too! (I myself had one good pair of work shoes and I never wore jewelry at all, mainly because it took every ounce of my energy just to get to work on time. Who had time to accessorize?)</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">Anyhoos, back to my story. It was September 13, 2012 and my co-worker had to leave early that day. So I was asked to go through some files to look for a series of monthly invoices from one of our vendors. And, that's when 'it' happened. It was a moment that I will never forget because I just knew that something was very wrong the moment I saw it -- an invoice from the previous October had been xeroxed. The second one had the invoice number whited out. (Why would anyone white out an invoice number?) There were different check stubs stapled to each invoice, each in the amount of $7,000.00. I showed it to my boss and by this time it was almost 5:00 p.m. so she told me to look in to it further the following morning. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;">As a kid I read nearly every Nancy Drew book that came out and then Agatha Christie and more recently Ann Rule's True Crime non-fiction series. So I have always had an investigative kind of mind, bordering on paranoia!</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 115%;"><br />The following morning, my boss and I rejoined forces and took a look at the bank statements from that month. Sure enough, the second check for $7,000 was made out to a company that had nothing to do with our business. We looked at each other and our faces turned white. Luckily my embezzling co-worker was off that day. My boss and I spent the rest of the day looking for other checks that had been forged. By the end of the day we had found about 12 checks which had been manipulated adding up to about $30,000.00. For nearly ten months this had been going on, my co-worker leading a double life, smiling and being the best of friends with us, while stealing thousands and thousands of dollars right from under our noses. Wow!</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 18.4px;">The following Monday she was taken away in handcuffs and we thought that justice would be served. But, boy were we wrong! She was released from our local jail within six hours and a few days after that she wrote to the President of our company pleading forgiveness. She was desperate and needed the money (for more designer shoes and jewelry perhaps?). She would pay back all of the money (by this time $94,000) as soon as possible. Thank God he declined her offer and did not drop the charges.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 18.4px;">All of us in the office were in shock. My boss, understandably suddenly trusted no one, locking her door behind her, even to go to the restroom. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 18.4px;">We all thought that our justice system would kick in and that our embezzling co-worker would receive a harsh sentence, several years in prison along with restitution. But that's not quite how it worked out. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br />After about a year, the case went to trial. She received a whopping three months in prison and was 'forced' to pay back $25.00 a month. Really? They say that crime doesn't pay, but unfortunately, some times it does. In looking into embezzling cases further, especially in California, there is a huge flaw in our justice system when it comes to white collar crime.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I continued working at that company until it was sold at the end of 2014. </span></div>
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a few tips that I’d like to offer. If you know someone who owns a business, please pass this list on to them. It may help them save a little money and a lot of heartache.</span></span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">If
you use a signature stamp for your checks, keep it locked in a safe. If you sign your own checks, don’t use a lazy
or simple signature style. Make it difficult
for others to forge. And, you may want
to require two signatures for larger amounts.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 18.4px; text-indent: -24px;">·</span><span style="font-stretch: normal; text-indent: -24px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Check
your bank statements <b>every month.</b> Look at each check <b>closely </b>to make sure that
you know who the vendor is. My co-worker even paid her utility bills (Dept. of
Water & Power) using company checks, so look <b>CLOSELY</b>. It may not be easy to
detect.</span></span></div>
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</span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Use
less checks and more auto-pay options. But, if so, make sure that you know
which companies are signed up – and check those statements monthly as well.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Don’t
allow your accounting employees to come in at odd hours (early morning or late
night) unattended. Don’t give them an
opportunity to have the office to themself.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">If
you have security cameras, take the time to review them weekly if not daily. You have a right to know what’s going on in
your office, your store or home.</span></span><br />
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</span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Communicate
with your employees. Are they having
financial difficulties? (My co-worker was
about to declare bankruptcy and instead she opted for embezzling.)</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Don’t
underpay your employees, or flaunt your own personal wealth - or give your employees
reasons to become resentful of you. This may cause them to feel justified in stealing
from you. This is how the mind of an embezzler works… THEY are the victim. THEY deserve to have what you have. THEY want their fair share, etc.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Try
to avoid a rapid turnover of employees. This will increase the odds of a bad
seed taking root in your office or company.</span></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="line-height: 18.4px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Establish
long term relationships whenever possible with your employees. The more that
you know about your employees, the less likely you will become a victim of
embezzlement. (At the same time, be aware that people can sometimes live double lives, fooling you into thinking that they are to be trusted... Sadly, this is not always the case.)</span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="text-align: justify;">I never asked the question again, <b>"Why am I here?" </b>I know exactly why I was there. It was to help catch an embezzler. Hopefully she has learned her lesson despite the light sentence she was given. I myself believe in a higher law. And I believe in Karma. What goes around comes around. I also believe that we are where we are for a reason. Whether it's a job or a relationship, there is always something to learn about yourself and others. And when the time is right to move on, it will present itself to you. And then you might even look back, like me, and say, "Oh, now I get it!"</span></div>
Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-54348909309833138152016-01-11T14:35:00.003-08:002016-01-11T14:35:50.259-08:00To Honor Elena Kramer and others - Please light up Bouquet Canyon Road <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>One week ago today we lost a beautiful young woman on Bouquet Canyon Road. She touched so many souls - many who never met her but felt a connection to her.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>For me, it was softball. My Dad was the coach on my team when I was a teenager. He would take us to Dairy Queen if our team won. And if we didn't, I would hear all about it on the way home from the games.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Being a resident on Bouquet Canyon Road and living so near the accident, I've had several conversations now with my neighbors who were also devastated by the fatalities of Elena Kramer and James Rodriguez a few months prior. We are all brainstorming - trying our best to come up with some sort of solution, and one that will not require years of survey studies, community meetings and voting ballots. </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>It has come to our realization that there is one thing that can be done right now - and it is very easy to do. (But, we need to get the word out.)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>LIGHT UP BOUQUET CANYON ROAD during daylight hours -</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><b id="yiv5255720190yui_3_16_0_1_1452372942029_4361" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">"National and international studies have found that using headlights reduce daytime vehicle accidents from 5 to 15 percent. One study reported daytime headlight use reduced head-on fatal accidents by 5 percent while head-on fatalities involving passenger vehicles and motorcycles dropped by </b><b id="yiv5255720190yui_3_16_0_1_1452372942029_4719" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"><span id="yiv5255720190yui_3_16_0_1_1452372942029_4718" style="font-size: small;">23 percent,</span><span id="yiv5255720190yui_3_16_0_1_1452372942029_4768"> according to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis."</span></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;"><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;"><span><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"><b>So, please TURN ON YOUR HEADLIGHTS while driving during the day through the Angeles Forest on Bouquet Canyon Road and into Leona Valley. Do it for your own safety and also to honor Elena, James and so many others who have died along this dangerous corridor. And please tell those you love to do so also while on this route.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"><b>ALSO - I have recently discovered that the road <u>was</u> slippery on the morning of Elena's accident. She may have hit a patch of ice or frost. Please, everyone - take it easy, especially around the bends during these winter months. </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"><b>Life is precious. Take your time. Take care.</b></span></span><br />
<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-52027177949474281892016-01-04T17:06:00.000-08:002016-01-10T17:54:52.947-08:00We lost another life today. She was only nineteen years oldI awoke this morning to the sound of a helicopter circling above. Living up Bouquet Canyon in the Angeles Forest, there are usually only a few reasons for this; either a brush fire or a car or motorcycle accident. <br />
<br />
Tragically, this morning it was a car accident that once again took the life of a driver passing by. If you've ever driven up Bouquet Canyon Road through the Angeles Forest going to or from the Antelope Valley, you know that it is a beautiful, but treacherous route. Thankfully, cell phones don't work up here so there is no chance of someone texting or talking on their phone while trying to maneuver the hairpin turns. There are no guard rails and few passing lanes. And there are no CHP vehicles to keep people honest. It is a road that is completely out of control with fatal accidents occurring almost monthly and nonfatal accidents occurring weekly. And it is where my neighbors and I live, some of us part-time and others, year round.<br />
<br />
Whenever I have to drive down the canyon and in to the Santa Clarita Valley I make sure that my things are in order. It's strange living some place where you have to confront your mortality in such a conscious way, but this is how I live, never knowing if I'm going to make it back alive. And the frustrating part about it is, it doesn't have to be this way.<br />
<br />
But, CHP blames the County. And the County blames the Forest Service. And the Forest Service blames the CHP... or the County. And it's enough to make you dizzy as you watch them all take turns stalling and making excuses for why nothing ever changes. Meanwhile more people die.<br />
<br />
I suppose that the obvious answer would be to lower the speed limit, but when people drive slower it is too tempting for others who like to speed through the Forest to pass illegally, going over the double yellow lines, with curves and turns, at times every forty to fifty feet. Most likely, there would probably be <i>more </i>accidents if the speed limit was lowered.<br />
<br />
With the recent closing of Vasquez Canyon Road, Bouquet Canyon Road has seen a sharp increase of daily traffic. Add rain and ice to the mix and it is quite possible that there will be a record number of accidents on the road this winter. Most of them aren't fatal but this morning we lost another young life. Her name was Elena Kramer and she lived in nearby Leona Valley. I heard that she was on her way to sign up at College of the Canyons to play on their softball team. At nineteen years old, she had her whole life ahead of her. The road conditions weren't bad. No rain, no ice (although one reader has commented that he drove past the accident moments later and it was raining lightly). Perhaps a deer ran out in front of her car. Maybe she was changing the radio station and took her eyes off the road for a split second or someone else ran her off the road while trying to pass her. We'll never know. She died alone in her car while I was just waking up in bed less than a quarter mile away. <br />
<br />
I didn't know her but I still care about her and her family. When I stood in silence for a moment at the scene, I said a prayer for her. And I pray now for a solution to the larger issue too. Because I know that there will be another death soon. And I am fully aware that it could be me. So many times these past twelve years, driving on Bouquet Canyon Road, I've had such close calls. And every time someone dies on this road, I stop and think, what can be done? I'm no Civil Engineer. I'm not a Congress Woman or local Captain of the CHP. I'm just one person, and I have little power. Okay, I have no power...<br />
<br />
But, if I did have the power to do something, this is what I would do:<br />
<br />
<b>GUARD RAILS</b> - Putting up guard rails on the sides of the road around the bends that have steep drops would help cars from plunging down in to the creek bed or the steep ravines.<br />
<br />
<b>MEDIAN GUARD BARRIERS</b> - All the way through much of the Angeles Forest, a white cement barrier would stop drivers from drifting over the middle yellow line and right in to oncoming traffic.<br />
<br />
<b>SPEED BUMPS</b> - Before each residence (and there are over 100 cabins on Bouquet Canyon through the Forest) I would put in speed bumps that would cause drivers to have to slow down.<br />
<br />
<b>CAMERAS</b> - Cameras would be motion censored to photograph all vehicles and monitor their speed. Several posted signs at the entrance to the Forest on either side would warn drivers that tickets will be sent through the mail to anyone caught speeding.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>POLICE PRESENCE </b>- Morning and evening commutes and weekends are the worst times to drive up and down the canyon. This is when police presence needs to be stepped up. If it's not in the current budget, it needs to be! No more excuses that "there just isn't the money for it".<br />
<br />
In my opinion, L.A. County, CHP and the Forest Service each share in the responsibility for this young girl's death and the deaths of dozens of others throughout the years. And each day that goes by where they do nothing and another person dies is, again, in my opinion a tragic failure on their parts to fix the problem of Bouquet Canyon in the Angeles Forest.<br />
<br />
Who will be next? It could be me. And if it is, at least I will have died knowing that I spoke out about the problem, instead of remaining silent once again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OlKPBRqH-DhvtFE58UTBpTo6_9aUz0kg_nwDKTVYyBhe1Ij-WFgdZLb_nHd_byyf7LlAYAa2uAHGDdkynVatUw5qTaSAc0pkZC_MXfXDZ7d2IhOO_nP7PL7Deep5W68j4lLBM0AXPqy0/s1600/DSCN9821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OlKPBRqH-DhvtFE58UTBpTo6_9aUz0kg_nwDKTVYyBhe1Ij-WFgdZLb_nHd_byyf7LlAYAa2uAHGDdkynVatUw5qTaSAc0pkZC_MXfXDZ7d2IhOO_nP7PL7Deep5W68j4lLBM0AXPqy0/s400/DSCN9821.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elena Kramer's 1999 Ford Mustang</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_X8oHFSumWPHnAD9F3U17uRCeEKoLUtns9wUfkxeLqDHMtB_CxOxq4pN5VQd64hm_DH9M2Ugi51_sgdo6JZSFYbIebu0FaEUBOLqet6Qsw-p91sPYk70hKwWZ-AS7M3LDzXQJzz9XeKYC/s1600/DSCN9822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_X8oHFSumWPHnAD9F3U17uRCeEKoLUtns9wUfkxeLqDHMtB_CxOxq4pN5VQd64hm_DH9M2Ugi51_sgdo6JZSFYbIebu0FaEUBOLqet6Qsw-p91sPYk70hKwWZ-AS7M3LDzXQJzz9XeKYC/s400/DSCN9822.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found near the accident scene. She loved to play softball</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLfBHNRYq0vxqIXctY0VRK1lzarr1enFbwKUXXZLzEWycbROfGRxETKQp8_hyJMsysd_hX0-Mb20j_9m3sbVlrOy7tQiSSKKyE3hHV-gvFHnxBRZVw_PXaimvwkBa_t7xwebPk9nIoOGE/s1600/DSCN9820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLfBHNRYq0vxqIXctY0VRK1lzarr1enFbwKUXXZLzEWycbROfGRxETKQp8_hyJMsysd_hX0-Mb20j_9m3sbVlrOy7tQiSSKKyE3hHV-gvFHnxBRZVw_PXaimvwkBa_t7xwebPk9nIoOGE/s400/DSCN9820.JPG" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">16 year old James Rodriguez died in August just 40 feet away</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The worst part of their job. They would like to see changes made too</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">There is power in numbers: </span></b></div>
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<b>Please call the phone numbers below and let these agencies know that too many people are dying on Bouquet Canyon Road. </b></div>
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<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">U.S. FOREST SERVICE: 661/269-2808</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">CHP - 661/294-5540</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS - 661/222-2940</span></b></li>
</ul>
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-63558688569650717932015-11-18T13:10:00.002-08:002016-02-21T13:25:29.106-08:00I Am My Father's DaughterA few weeks ago I heard a song on our local radio station (KHTS) which pretty much weakened me to my core. It was like kryptonite for me. There's nothing worse than trying to drive when your eyes are full of tears, Not to mention it's not very safe! What was the song, you may ask? It's called <b>My Father's Daughter. </b>It's a new song, sung by Jewel and Dolly Parton, written by Jewel and Lisa Carver. (I've attached the link to the song below.)<br />
<br />
If you've ever delved in to your ancestry, (and if not, I highly recommend it) you'll have a much larger scope and understanding of who you are. When I heard the lyrics below, many of the stories I learned about my ancestors came flooding back in an instant.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>"I am the accumulation of the dreams of generations</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>And their stories live in me like holy water</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I am my father's daughter..."</b></div>
<br />
Yes, I am my father's daughter and I am also a third generation musician, with my musical roots extending not only from my father's side but my mother's too. My grandfather, Jack Cooper Sr. played saxophone and clarinet in Pennsylvania. In fact, music was his ticket out of the coal mines when he moved to Detroit, Michigan in the mid 1920's. His father worked in those mines for 30 years upon arriving to America from Poland. In 1930 my Great Grandfather died in a mining accident (along with his brother) when he was 60 years old. I can't even imagine how hard he worked and what his lungs must've looked like. How I wish I could thank him for his sacrifice. (I am truly standing on the shoulders of giants.)<br />
<br />
My father began playing sax and clarinet when he was in his teens. In 1942, while my Dad was playing in his father's big band in Detroit, Pearl Harbor had just been attacked. My Dad enlisted as a musician and in doing so he was able to not only support the war effort but entertain the troops while he served in the Navy up in Kodiak, Alaska.<br />
<br />
I never did get to meet my grandfather, let alone sit on his knee or go fishing with him. He died a few years before I was born. Shortly thereafter my father put away his saxophone for good. It was a sacrifice and no doubt, a painful one. In fact, I remember watching a big band with him at a casino about twenty years ago. While they played the classic song, <b>In The Mood</b> he had tears in his eyes. He told me once, that was one of his favorite songs to play. I'm pretty sure that he let go of his musical dream to live a more conventional life; to raise a family. He worked for nearly 35 years in an office job that left him feeling stressed out and overwhelmed. I think that's why the song lyric below pierced through my heart like an arrow when I heard it:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>"I am my father's daughter</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I have his eyes</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I am the product of his sacrifice..."</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Music has always been my salvation while simultaneously my frustration ever since I was a teenager. I wish we lived in a world that valued music more, making it more available to learn in schools, allowing more musicians to live more comfortably. Unfortunately, it is now even harder to make a career in the music industry; so much is given away for free on the internet now.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For this reason - not to mention my age, I am at times tempted to give up my music for good and settle back in to an office job. I should mention that I did give up my musical aspirations for about seven years, working in an office when I was in my mid-forties. But now I'm back to playing bass and guitar and writing songs (currently in a band called <b>My Friend's Band</b>). Some day I may be inspired to walk away from it all for good, but one thing will never change: I will always be my Father's Daughter!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thank you, Dad for the gift of music you passed on to me. I will gratefully carry on this torch for as long as I'm physically able to.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMsbaSDb65cjqwa1pLd80U1U7_oCC0M1f1Uh1bSf46XRm7y84y0A87QqE2jRvg6sGgsbUfuk2yB-EqzanyBbZbCEXXQuq_q_38cf3QySK0Mdl3rg4eS8yNR0AZlGrJl2H008JfNJ1lBjt/s1600/jandjhalf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMsbaSDb65cjqwa1pLd80U1U7_oCC0M1f1Uh1bSf46XRm7y84y0A87QqE2jRvg6sGgsbUfuk2yB-EqzanyBbZbCEXXQuq_q_38cf3QySK0Mdl3rg4eS8yNR0AZlGrJl2H008JfNJ1lBjt/s320/jandjhalf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Jack Cooper Sr. and Jack Cooper Jr.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvotiEwzvOP3KZSPhCstYDo-FTmyY9pZDCej9SbkyHTC1Fd0FzupQBQJtvl5aNoJ448jSW50MP8oP0VjIafAZFdzWW0hqbUbrsjMB1NTeX9xJ3LiEKrb-wtkE7bowPWr078YzoJrLvTySe/s1600/jackand+jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvotiEwzvOP3KZSPhCstYDo-FTmyY9pZDCej9SbkyHTC1Fd0FzupQBQJtvl5aNoJ448jSW50MP8oP0VjIafAZFdzWW0hqbUbrsjMB1NTeX9xJ3LiEKrb-wtkE7bowPWr078YzoJrLvTySe/s320/jackand+jack.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"> Jack Cooper Jr. & Jack Cooper Sr.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ESaMN2Y9l5QASGrFHoV_lCWzpZA6ZivhLhwnz4TTMzXk0b-SjkX7gbqv8MGE7FxVeg3PdwqdfRh5H9P8wqGqfJfH1ltOFtWRnC-HePNEl-PfCwLeM6_4ulFQ-6yH0XNE_keeHopn1BRL/s1600/j9anddad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ESaMN2Y9l5QASGrFHoV_lCWzpZA6ZivhLhwnz4TTMzXk0b-SjkX7gbqv8MGE7FxVeg3PdwqdfRh5H9P8wqGqfJfH1ltOFtWRnC-HePNEl-PfCwLeM6_4ulFQ-6yH0XNE_keeHopn1BRL/s200/j9anddad.JPG" width="155" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forever in my heart - Always!</td></tr>
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If you'd like to watch the official video for <b>My Father's Daughter</b>, please click on the link below.</div>
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<b><a href="https://youtu.be/2TYepdbTIog">https://youtu.be/2TYepdbTIog</a></b></div>
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To see a video from a recent performance of mine (singing a song I wrote called <b>Fightin' The Good Fight) </b>please click on this link:</div>
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<a href="https://youtu.be/cbqPx-pLsu0"><b>https://youtu.be/cbqPx-pLsu0</b></a></div>
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-30634150002153330042015-10-12T17:03:00.002-07:002020-10-13T21:44:45.547-07:00An Afternoon on the set of the X-FilesIt's funny how we remember certain dates as they approach annually. October 13th is one such date for me. Why, you might ask? Because it's Chris Carter's birthday (of course!). He was the creator and Executive Producer of <b>The</b> <b>X-Files</b> -- a television show that was close to my heart for obvious reasons. My fascination with extraterrestrials and U.F.O.s began long ago. I started painting aliens back around 1985. The one below is one of the first E.T. portraits I painted. Where that painting is now, I have no idea. Like many others I sold it for $50.00 or so to help pay my bills when I first moved to L.A.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZakOTnLt9m549QP6J77vTUD46G8sfKS1u20xxg7NNyQ34xFvfxf7P9Dy6ED7VDIIN8mp06eiQapSS2-4md6hVfJDYfdRhGtSMe4fRSqaZ6TrbcnqLNtjuneiVlAZQ4astWDknYxzFBaqp/s1600/greyet.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZakOTnLt9m549QP6J77vTUD46G8sfKS1u20xxg7NNyQ34xFvfxf7P9Dy6ED7VDIIN8mp06eiQapSS2-4md6hVfJDYfdRhGtSMe4fRSqaZ6TrbcnqLNtjuneiVlAZQ4astWDknYxzFBaqp/s200/greyet.jpg" width="126" /></a></div>
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Painting these ugly little bug-eyed creatures over and over again was my way of getting to the truth. I was looking within myself and trying to access some sort of memory or knowledge buried deep within (a search that continues to this day). I still don't know exactly why I'm obsessed, I just know in my heart that there are other beings out there living on thousands if not millions of planets, and I'm haunted by the amazing possibilities that come along with that fact. (And, yes, I do believe it is a fact.)</div>
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So, when <b>The</b> <b>X-Files</b> first began airing in the autumn of 1993 I felt a certain affinity with Chris Carter and the characters he created, like Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. They were also in search of the Truth and they knew it was '<i>out there</i>' just as I did!<br />
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About six years after that show began airing I was working for the City of Santa Clarita. It was an odd match. I don't consider myself a 'government worker' type but somehow I found my way into the bureaucratic system, and into the Parks & Recreation Department. <br />
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During that time I received an offer in the way of a memo that had been circulating: <b>"Become a Mentor! Make a difference in a young person's life"</b>. I gave it some thought but dismissed it almost immediately. I was too weird to be a mentor! I was an artist and rock musician and an alien painter for chrissakes! No way! I didn't want to be a bad influence on someone's life - that would certainly be counter-productive! But at the last minute I decided to submit for it. And I'm glad I did because the girl that I was assigned to could not have been a more perfect match! Her name was Guinevere and she was 13 years old. She and I got along great and when I discovered our mutual love of <b>The X-Files</b> I soon came up with an idea. A scheme if you will. What if I offered to give one of my alien paintings to Chris Carter in exchange for a day on the set of <b>The X-Files</b> for Guinevere and I? It was crazy! A total long shot and I was just smart enough to realize that most likely I would never even hear back. But I still had to try, right? So I wrote a heartfelt letter and gathered some photos of some of my alien portraits and sent them in to the production office. I didn't want to get Guinevere's hopes up so I kept it to myself. <br />
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After two long weeks of waiting and hoping... It happened! I received a phone call from Chris Carter's assistant and she did indeed invite us to spend an afternoon on the set of <b>The X-Files</b>! Holy Mackerel!!! Only in Hollywood! Within a day or two Guinevere and I were at the local shopping mall. We each bought a new outfit for that very special occasion. Mine was metallic silver (of course!).<br />
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When the big day arrived I drove us to <b>Fox Studios</b> in West Los Angeles and gave the security guard our names. I half-expected him to look on his roster and search and look again, only to say, "Sorry, I don't see your names here..." But, our names <i>were </i>on the list and he gave us a parking pass along with a map to the stage and nearby offices. Guinevere and I were giddy with excitement as we drove onto the lot. After I parked I scooped up my painting from the backseat and we walked inside and in to the lobby. Once again, I was nervous. Will he be too busy to see us? Was there an emergency production meeting or location scout, or trouble on the set? I guess I still didn't believe it would happen. But, once again we were given the green light as Chris Carter's assistant came out and greeted us. She was gracious and kind and made us feel like <i>we</i> were the V.I.P.s! A few moments later we were invited into Chris Carter's office. Dressed in a white t-shirt and a casual pair of Levi's, he was very handsome and had an incredible presence about him. He greeted us with a bright smile.<br />
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Honestly I have no idea what I said to him! I was stuttering and blushing and I probably sounded somewhat inarticulate. But I'm pretty sure that I at least told him how much I loved his show and Guinevere expressed the same.<br />
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Then I presented him with his new painting (pictured here to the left) and I think he genuinely appreciated it! Although if anyone would appreciate an alien portrait it would be him, right?!<br />
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Moments later we were on the set of <b>The X-Files</b>! We got to meet David Duchovny and Mitch Pileggi (Agent Skinner)! We watched several scenes being filmed and sat in a special area designated for the 'production team'. It was a wonderful and magical afternoon on the set and a special memory that comes back around annually. And along with it, each October 13th, I send out a psychic 'happy birthday' message to Chris Carter through the ethers. After all, if anyone could receive such a message this way, it would be him, right?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF5n11HEYY3ixRynhY45tHaDPn1b5RpbIehP-Njr8Av1axpibfqnzOWHvF0wn8v3Atv6xPovPQz9qeCjTI0vv2ezuZ-bVJgtbSHGmovd8sQi6SAV1KjIJ5adjG2Dg-vizKeBDsjQ-w1cX/s1600/gjc.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF5n11HEYY3ixRynhY45tHaDPn1b5RpbIehP-Njr8Av1axpibfqnzOWHvF0wn8v3Atv6xPovPQz9qeCjTI0vv2ezuZ-bVJgtbSHGmovd8sQi6SAV1KjIJ5adjG2Dg-vizKeBDsjQ-w1cX/s320/gjc.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guinevere, Chris Carter & Janine Cooper Ayres (1999)</td></tr>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-61316897790432354022015-06-29T12:17:00.000-07:002015-06-29T12:17:03.021-07:00PATHS By Jack Cooper<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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Below is a poem written by my Father when he was 85 years old.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">PATHS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">By Jack Cooper <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">©2010<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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The other night as
I lay in bed,<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span></b>thought after thought danced through my head.</div>
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I laid there
wondering where I’d be today had I taken another path during my early journey’s
way.</div>
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Have you ever
wished you could go back in time? Start all over again when you were in your
prime? </div>
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If I had taken that
path I bypassed before - heaven only
knows what might’ve been in store.</div>
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I might’ve made it
big on the stage or screen – Maybe won an Oscar in the Hollywood scene.</div>
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I was good at
sports – at the top of my game. Had I stuck to that path – might I been in the
Hall of Fame?</div>
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I loved to travel, explore foreign lands - maybe search for treasure buried deep in
the sand.</div>
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Or taken the High
Sierra road - I might’ve found that Mother Lode!</div>
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If I studied harder
to become more wise - I might’ve been a scientist, won the Nobel Peace Prize.</div>
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Ah, yes, if only
I’d taken a different lane - I might have wound up with fortune and fame.</div>
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I leaned back on my
pillow and pondered some more. Then dozed off to sleep – back to the days of
yore.</div>
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Instead of dreaming
of glory and fame - my dreams took me down a perilous lane.</div>
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I was on a path
that that led into harm’s way - leading
me only toward danger and dismay.</div>
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No Hall of Fame, no
big prize – no award. No treasure chest
found washed up on the shore.</div>
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I was lonely and
homeless and roaming the streets - Begging for food with no place to sleep.</div>
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I woke up and I sat
on the edge of my bed - shaking and sweating from my toes to my head.</div>
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I sat for a moment
glancing around the room - trying to clear my head of the misery and
gloom.</div>
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With a sigh of
relief I realized how lucky I’ve been - that I <i>did</i>
take the right path way back when.</div>
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I’ve struggled at
times with some bumps along the way. But I’ve made it safely to where I am
today. </div>
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I’m blessed with a
family I’d never trade away - and have wonderful friends I’ve met
along the way.</div>
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One may choose to
be happy – or envious and sad - left dreaming of the treasures you might’ve had.</div>
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But I do have my treasures
on this glorious day! I just have to
look at things in a much different way.</div>
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Tomorrow will be
the beginning of another day - I just
hope I choose the right path along my long journey’s way.</div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-71614300822831521892015-03-09T13:28:00.004-07:002015-03-09T21:16:31.491-07:00The coolest job I ever had<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Throughout
my life I’ve had a few jobs. Okay, I’ve had <i>a lot</i> of jobs. I blame this restless behavior on my Hungarian roots. I have gypsy blood in me. But, there is one job that stands out from all
of the rest. I must say, it was the
hippest - the coolest and most interesting job I’ve ever had!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Of course, I didn’t realize it at the time.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
was living in the Bay Area (Cupertino) where I graduated from high
school and had been playing bass guitar in a few different garage bands. Somehow I discovered that <b>Guitar
Player Magazine</b> was published right there in that silicon suburb so I went down to their office on Stevens Creek and applied for a job. And miraculously I was hired! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
started out as the receptionist for <b>G.P.I.
Publications</b>. Three magazines were
published under its wing: <b>FRETS, KEYBOARD</b> and <b>GUITAR PLAYER</b>. I was nervous as hell answering those
phones. I remember once when several
lines lit up at once instead of saying, “GPI
Publications, may I help you?”, I said, “GPI Publications, may I hold
you?” <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
too long after working in that position another one opened up in the <b>Guitar Player</b> office. It was for the
Office Coordinator post and I knew that I didn't have the experience nor the
confidence to land that job but somehow I mustered up the courage to apply. To
my amazement I got the job and suddenly I found myself in the midst of the
coolest folks I’d ever had the privilege of working with!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Of
course, I didn’t realize it at the time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
spent my days transcribing interviews with amazing guitarists like Eric Clapton
and The Edge from U2. I was treated like family by Editor Tom Wheeler and his staff, Jas Obrecht, Tom Mulhern, Jim Ferguson, Dan Forte and Art Director,
Peggy Shea. It was an amazing experience
and an incredible place to work! But as
much as I loved it there I couldn’t help but feel that my dream job was to be
an actual working musician and not one behind the scenes. (This need for attention and craving the
spotlight I blame on being the youngest in my family.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">So, I moved to L.A. to try my hand at making a
career out of playing music. And can you
believe – some thirty years later I’m still trying to make that crazy dream a
reality?! Oh, I’ve had run-ins with
success and near misses. I’ve had a taste of fame. I’ve stood next to it on
stage, or behind it... But, if I’ve
learned one thing during these humbling and interesting years it’s that you have to make the
journey the destination - because odds are I will never
reach the final destination that I once thought was so important.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the mean time I’m grateful for the incredible people I’ve met along the way. My 'work family' at <b>Guitar Player Magazine</b> is
certainly right there at the top of the list of amazing people I've come to know during my life's journey. I was one lucky gal to have had
that opportunity!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">And, yes... of
course, I didn’t realize it at the time…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’m
also grateful to Mark Zuckerberg. If it
weren’t for his company <b>Facebook</b>, I
would’ve lost touch with many old friends and work-mates. Last year when I received a Facebook message from Dara
Crockett (daughter of Jim Crockett, the publisher of GPI Publications) she told
me that she and her father were writing a book about the <b>Glory Days at Guitar
Player Magazine</b>. She asked me if I
might want to consider contributing with a story or photographs. Being the blabbermouth that I am I jumped at
the chance!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">After reconnecting with Dara and Jim Crockett I soon discovered that Jim and his wife Bobby and
I are neighbors! (Well, almost.) For
the past ten years or so we’ve been living not more than thirty miles away from
one another. We've since become
friends and I even helped him crack the e-book code recently. His memoir, <b>Experiencing the Great Whites and Other Interesting Times </b>is now available at Amazon.com. It’s filled with some outrageous storytelling which makes me wonder how this man is still alive! I hope you'll take the time to read it. Here’s the link. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_1989431132"><br /></a></span>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Experiencing-The-Great-Whites-Interesting-ebook/dp/B00QSOA07A"><span style="color: blue;"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">www.amazon.com/Experiencing-The-Great-Whites-Interesting-ebook/dp/B00QSOA07A</span></b></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The <b>Guitar Player</b> book is available now too. In fact it arrived in my mail box yesterday and it
is filled with great stuff – interviews with many famous and talented guitar
players like Craig Chaquico, Steve Morse, John McLaughlin, Pat Metheny, Steve
Howe, Pat Travers, Stanley Clarke and Eric Johnson just to name a few, as they look
back at how <b>Guitar Player Magazine</b> shaped their careers. There are also some funny and poignant
stories from staff members and advertisers along with never before seen photos. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
realize that I may be biased, but I think that this book is a must read for any
guitar player, or dedicated fans of guitar players!</span><br />
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Here’s the link for </span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Guitar Player - The Inside Story of the First Two Decades…</b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Guitar-Player-Decades-Successful-Magazine/dp/148039792X/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1425929063&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=guitar+player+dara+crockett"><span style="color: red;">http://www.amazon.com/Guitar-Player-Decades-Successful-Magazine/dp/148039792X/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1425929063&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=guitar+player+dara+crockett</span></a></b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEOo8-sw8cGrw_MHDhyyQi8jx7H4bB25yQlo4YyH2zqh84oMQSxxW-6KTGUFA3sn-AaRv2ALy2_pRkLTGMhb9exAz9MCTBClKYbzuJ_NS2ZceOgZ41jWvQqpMEDUn1hhRi5wqy1ZS8nAxV/s1600/janj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEOo8-sw8cGrw_MHDhyyQi8jx7H4bB25yQlo4YyH2zqh84oMQSxxW-6KTGUFA3sn-AaRv2ALy2_pRkLTGMhb9exAz9MCTBClKYbzuJ_NS2ZceOgZ41jWvQqpMEDUn1hhRi5wqy1ZS8nAxV/s1600/janj.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jim Crockett & J-9 - 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvJglwyvFv2sduB0no-PbfFDH-utY0phrDe0kE-Y7zDQvnoE3d1Chot1bYhD_1eVTJQhvpC2VCK6ev8OxGi2-e605bHGp6OFuRyt1QP3ERHkF4EQHt4vlySYYEsoCxNZCUhGLjblKcFDz/s1600/jandj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvJglwyvFv2sduB0no-PbfFDH-utY0phrDe0kE-Y7zDQvnoE3d1Chot1bYhD_1eVTJQhvpC2VCK6ev8OxGi2-e605bHGp6OFuRyt1QP3ERHkF4EQHt4vlySYYEsoCxNZCUhGLjblKcFDz/s1600/jandj.jpg" height="320" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">J-9 & Jas Obrecht - 1986 - photo by Jon Sievert</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkg7ER2yS0e6tUTU2AeJvt5ohcq-_tTxftDvHv3k3FT-cAR_oO-aJy54Cg8XuHxaDBEYOZ4yz0cGFu0GUof27erv-6zksG0VhfzHDnx3XemPfsM3CxnI8e4azqkyo7uSSgbjFxNtsbUYb/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkg7ER2yS0e6tUTU2AeJvt5ohcq-_tTxftDvHv3k3FT-cAR_oO-aJy54Cg8XuHxaDBEYOZ4yz0cGFu0GUof27erv-6zksG0VhfzHDnx3XemPfsM3CxnI8e4azqkyo7uSSgbjFxNtsbUYb/s1600/001.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan Forte & J-9 - 1986 - photo by Jon Sievert</td></tr>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-55218108241527062122015-02-12T07:51:00.000-08:002015-02-12T07:51:10.718-08:00Happy birthday Abe!<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Most people don't know this, but I have this 'thing' about the presidents. In fact it led to a song I wrote about ten years ago to help kids memorize their names and then I wrote a whole CD of songs called "Remember The Presidents" (available on CD Baby.com by the way!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 18.6666660308838px; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Today is February 12th and it's Abraham Lincoln's birthday! And it just so happens that two people whom I love very much have an interesting connection to the 16th president, so I thought I'd feature their stories on this special day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Below is the first one - it's an excerpt from my mom's memoir called "Looking Back". <b> </b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My
First Book<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By Irene Milko Cooper</span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I must’ve been about eight or nine years old
and looking back from this time of plenty I cannot conceive that I did not own
any of my very own books. Yes, I had
school books, and I went to the neighborhood library but these were not my
books to keep, to hold and proudly say, “This is <i>my</i> book – my very own book!”<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I remember it was raining – a cold autumn rain (in Detroit, Michigan). I
was getting wet, very wet so I ran to escape the cold rain, plus the holes in
my shoes were starting to absorb the rain and the inner cardboard my mother had
shaped into place inside of them was starting to get spongy. Water was swirling
along the curb as I made ready to jump across it to the street. I stopped, as
something caught my eye. Laying in the swirling water was a book – a beautiful
soggy book. I quickly scooped it up, looking around, praying that no one would
come and claim it. I hurried home with it.<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>My Mother had the living room coal stove going full
blast and it felt so good to sit on the trunk behind the stove and feel the warmth
surround me. Then I got an old rag and
wiped my book, pressing down to get the moisture out. Mom approached me and
said it would never be any good; that I shouldn’t bother because it was a mess.
(Mom didn’t like to read.) So I knew I’d
better guard my book and I made a mental note to keep it in view.<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The stove stood up on
four legs on a metal square mat. I wiped the mat under the stove off and placed
my book to dry there. At night I placed
it on top of the trunk and would turn it so that it would dry, which it
eventually did. And then, one cold winter
day I was able to drink a hot cup of tea and sit and read my beautiful book: “The
Story of Young Abraham Lincoln” by Wayne Whipple. And as I read and re-read
this book and lived young Abe’s story he became my friend. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I still have the
book. I keep it safely wrapped in a bag, its faded pages fragile but when I
hold it I can still remember the joy it gave me when I found it and it became
my very first book. How very proud and
happy I was with my great find!<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<b style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now I have hundreds of books. Far too many, but I
just can’t give them up! They are mine. ALL MINE!</span></b><br />
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And, below is the second - It is the introduction of a book my husband Alex edited called <b><i>The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln </i></b>(available on Amazon.com by the way!).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTDSTg8X8IbIoerH47WQWhitgROgwOTbzJ6j-WZ_5VRYjeeHc0OhYDJ0cdftXQsF43DHUykRuFUqyQTow3jC9wM57GvO8lGfJzZV9gasAwUqIZ1tFTCBJ__DdGWfWGgrvDaXkBcLcXaPs/s1600/abe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTDSTg8X8IbIoerH47WQWhitgROgwOTbzJ6j-WZ_5VRYjeeHc0OhYDJ0cdftXQsF43DHUykRuFUqyQTow3jC9wM57GvO8lGfJzZV9gasAwUqIZ1tFTCBJ__DdGWfWGgrvDaXkBcLcXaPs/s1600/abe.jpg" height="320" width="206" /></a></div>
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Abraham Lincoln is remembered as a tragic figure, a martyred emancipator. But he is also a great comic figure. Comedy was married to tragedy in his life and his personality.</div>
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It was the wit and wisdom of Abraham Lincoln that first won him the hearts of the people. Prior to his election as president in 1860 he never held a higher post than that of a one-term Illinois congressman. But people trusted Lincoln instinctively because he seemed wiser than other men, and they liked him because he was funnier than other men.</div>
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Abraham Lincoln was a great writer and a great orator as well as a great leader. He deserves a place in American Literature as well as history. However, he wrote no books, he composed no memoirs, he left behind no magnum opus. The quotations sited in this book are drawn from a variety of sources, both oral and written.</div>
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The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln includes both stories told about Lincoln and stories told by Lincoln. No president has had more stories told about him than Lincoln. Many of these stories have passed from American history into American folklore. Sometimes it is hard to separate Lincoln the historical figure from Lincoln the folk hero.</div>
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No president told more stories than Lincoln. He was the storytelling president. He used anecdotes the way Christ is said to have used parables, to make a point, to illustrate a principle. He used humor the way Mark Twain used humor, to break down barriers and throw light on truth.</div>
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Ultimately it's for you to decide if the stories told about Lincoln are true and if the stories told by Lincoln contain truth. </div>
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The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln is for anyone who would like to know what Lincoln said to us - and what he is saying to us today.<br />
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Alex Ayres</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you would like to read the first ten pages of Alex's book (or see some of the other books he has available) please click on the link below.</span></div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-40623060636026582322015-01-18T13:46:00.001-08:002015-01-18T16:42:17.681-08:00Remembering Grant McLennan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was one of those unexpected, fateful encounters. I had gone with my friend, and then band-mate Geoff Gans to Genghis Cohen in Los Angeles to hear some music. It must've been around 1990. And in walked a handsome Aussie singer/songwriter named Grant McLennan. He was in a band called The <b>Go-Betweens</b>, but I didn't know much about them. Geoff introduced the two of us and we spent the evening conversing and drinking at the bar.</div>
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I was living in a guesthouse in Santa Monica at the time so I invited him over. We took turns singing songs to one another - passing my old acoustic guitar back and forth till around 4:00 in the morning. We finally fell asleep on my futon. The following morning we had breakfast at a nearby restaurant called "A Votre Sante". (We split an order of scrambled tofu.) It was one of those magical nights and the start of a very special friendship with a man who was not only kind and a true gentleman, but he was also a brilliant artist. And the crazy and almost unbelievable thing was that he believed in me and my songwriting! The next time he came to L.A. we picked up where we left off and played more tunes for one another. He even remembered a few of my songs and made a point to tell me how much he enjoyed listening to the cassette I sent to him in Australia!</div>
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Grant sent me three postcards in the coming years which I will always treasure, but there was one in particular that means very much to me. I have never liked my singing voice much but on the card he said, "You also sing like a diva..." Often, throughout the years I've contemplated giving up the crazy dream of pursuing a career in songwriting, but his belief in me is one of the main reasons I've never given up.</div>
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Okay, yes - I was smitten by Grant but the only connection he and I had was a musical one. I didn't realize it at the time but he would become one of my all-time favorite singer/songwriters.</div>
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Grant McLennan died of a heart attack at the age of 48 on May 6, 2006. I'll never forget receiving that phone call and the devastating news from my friend Rachel. It took several weeks to get over that sadness and still brings tears to my eyes now as I think of him. I'm thankful for the music he left behind for us. I'm also grateful that I was able to spend a little time with this amazing man. </div>
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<i>I miss you Grant. I hope we get to sing songs together again some day. Not too soon! But, some day...</i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to Steven Schayer for delivering this note to me</td></tr>
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To listen to one of my favorite Grant McLennan songs - CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://youtu.be/sJ9096U897k">http://youtu.be/sJ9096U897k</a></span></div>
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-23783699499322563142014-11-16T23:37:00.000-08:002014-11-18T11:06:50.978-08:00Once upon a time... I was a Scenic Artist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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In 1988 when I was living near Venice Beach I used to ride my bike around town. One day I noticed a group of odd looking buildings and facades. There was a slew of activity going on inside the compound. Not being shy, I rode my bike through the gates and approached a guy with a paintbrush in his hand. I asked him what he was doing and he told me he was working on a movie. </div>
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And it was in that exact moment that my life would go in a brand new direction. I began working as a painter on that movie too; at first for free, then within a week I was paid $75.00 a day. And the man who would be paying my salary? His name was Roger Corman. It was his movie studio.</div>
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Roger Corman was KING OF THE 'B' MOVIES. He helped Actors and Directors like Ron Howard, Jack Nicholson, Robert De Niro, James Cameron and Francis Ford Coppola get their start. But I had no idea who he was at first. It was only recently that I discovered he and I were both born in Detroit and we each made our way into the film industry after living in the Bay Area.</div>
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I worked on three 'Corman' movies, one after the other -<b> Time Trackers, Transylvania Twist</b> and <b>Hollywood Blvd. II</b>. It was like taking a crash course in scenic painting - but instead of paying for the classes I got paid! I met some talented people there too, like Production Designer Gary Randall, and Director of Photography, Ronn Schmidt.</div>
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Within a year I gathered the confidence to take my new career to the next step! By now it was 1989 and my favorite T.V. show was <b>The Wonder Years</b>. With a little detective work I found out where they filmed (in Culver City) so I went down to their stage and asked to speak with the Art Director. (Film studios these days are much more difficult to infiltrate with heavy security and guarded gates.) His name was Bill Ryder and he was kind enough to give me a chance as an on-call Scenic Artist. I was shocked that he hired me! I was also nervous as hell those first days on the set even though I mainly did things like paint posters for the set's hallways and create student's artwork for the walls. I felt as though I'd won the lottery being able to work with such an amazing cast and crew! I stayed on for three years as their on-call scenic/set dresser. I remember the very last day of filming. We were served lobster for lunch and each given a Director's chair with our name on it!</div>
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During that time I met a really talented artist named Cole Lewis. I went on to work with him on a few movies. <b> People Like Us</b> was one of them. It was a mini-series and the sets were elaborate! Another fine artist on the crew was Glen Gowen. He was an aspiring film maker too. When he told me that he wanted to make music videos I gave him a cassette and asked if he'd consider making one for me. After listening to a song I wrote called "Nothing Ever Happened" he offered to bring his camera to the set. He made an amazing video for me but somewhere down the line he and I lost track of each other - and also during that time the world had gone 'digital' so I was no longer able to even watch that video. I tried to find Glen but couldn't locate him. I also tried to have the video converted a few years ago but the quality of the VHS was so aged that it couldn't be done. But, then I received a message from Glen about a year ago. He had moved out of L.A. and was still doing his art and still making films and videos.</div>
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Last month I received an incredible birthday gift from him. He converted the VHS into a Youtube video! (The link to it is at the bottom of the page) It's like a time capsule - featuring a time in my life when I was actually getting paid to paint! It also features one of the first songs I've ever written. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Disney Land - Anaheim, CA</td></tr>
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I eventually went on to work at set shops like Scenic Highlights and for other talented Art Directors and Production Designers like Richard Hoover and Gustav Alsina. I worked on projects for <b>Walt Disney</b> and <b>Universal Studios</b> along with dozens of movies, commercials, T.V. shows and live theater. But after about twelve years I just couldn't do it any more. The fumes got to me, along with the long hours and the physical demands of it. Sometimes the work was fun, but other times it was like house painting only under the extreme pressure to GET IT DONE QUICK! So I had to let it go. </div>
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It's been several years now since I've worked as a scenic artist. Some day though, I may try to work on just one more project, for old times sake! </div>
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If you'd like to see the music video that my friend Glen made of my song, please click on the link below.</div>
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If you'd like to learn more about Roger Corman (The King of the 'B's), click here:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Corman">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Corman</a></span></div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-12638797662710028722014-10-07T16:36:00.000-07:002017-09-23T16:57:12.790-07:00Good Morning Robin Williams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few months ago something happened that shook my world, as I'm sure it did for many others too. Comedic Actor Robin Williams committed suicide. When it happened, I was shocked and sad and baffled as to why he would take his own life.</div>
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Then my thoughts went back to the previous year when I had the incredibly special opportunity to meet him briefly when I worked on his T.V. show, <b>The Crazy Ones</b>. I had called Central Casting's hotline the previous day and was surprised when they accepted me to work as one of the advertising staffers on the two day call. I was so excited in fact, that I barely slept a wink that night.</div>
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Living north of Los Angeles has its advantages but one of the major disadvantages is the need to travel over the Sepulveda pass on the 405 to get to West L.A. But, unfortunately, this is where the sound stage was: Fox Studios on Pico Blvd. To be safe, I allowed 2 hours and 15 minutes to get there, thinking that would give me plenty of time. But, oh... was I wrong. I was 20 minutes late to set and realized that it was possible I might be sent home. (Being late is simply not tolerated on film productions - even being ten minutes late is enough to be fired and sent home without pay.) When I arrived to the stage I was a nervous wreck, blood pressure through the roof and nearly in tears. Thankfully, after apologizing profusely, the Production Assistant handed me my voucher and told me to head to the wardrobe trailer which was outside and in the alley. I breathed a heavy sigh of relief and thanked him again for cutting me a break.</div>
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I collected the wardrobe I brought with me and opened the door to the small hallway off the stage. This area is used as a buffer so that when filming begins a red light flashes and anyone coming in from outside knows not to open the inside door. As I walked into that small space the outside door opened at the exact same time and in walked Robin Williams. The two of us nearly collided! So I blurted out, "Well, good morning." And Robin shyly responded back, "Good morning." It was just a moment in time. But I walked outside of stage 14 (the same stage that Marilyn Monroe was fired from for being late one too many times) with a smile on my face, suddenly feeling energized and really happy. That's what Robin Williams gave me. His energy was like a spell that came over you when you came in contact with him. I've heard others say the same about him.</div>
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But, my story doesn't end there. The day went very well and I was in several scenes (see photo below). Robin was funny on the set as I knew he would be, improvising and going into other voices. My favorite was his Native American wise elder impression. I tried not to stare at him. Honest I did! But I couldn't keep me eyes off of him.</div>
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Since it was a two day call I made it a point to leave extra early the following day. I arrived on time with a small gift for Robin in my purse. Keep in mind that the only thing worse than being late to a film set is approaching the leading actors and trying to speak with them. If they speak with you first that's different, but it's just not something that you do. And, I can understand this protocol because sometimes there are hundreds of background actors on set and it would be crazy if each one tried to speak to these V.I.P.s who are trying hard to focus on their lines and stay in character.</div>
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So I decided that if the moment presented itself I would give my gift directly to him. And if not, I would give it to his assistant to pass on if they chose to do so.</div>
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As the day went on, we were all needed on set most of the time, but later in the day many of us were in a holding area on stage. It was at that time that Robin Williams stopped to speak with a background actor near me. Inside of my bag was the small gift and it seemed to call out to me, "NOW'S THE TIME! NOW'S THE TIME!" I realized at that scary moment that I could again be sent home, but I took that chance and called out, "Robin, I brought a small gift for you!"</div>
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As he approached me I pulled out a tiny orange pumpkin squash from my bag and placed it in the palm of my hand as an offering to him. His face lit up immediately. As he took it out of my hand you could almost see the wheels turning in his head as he was thinking of what he could say about that little pumpkin. He asked me, "Is this from your garden?"</div>
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I smiled and said, "No. I bought it at Trader Joe's for 99 cents."</div>
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And for some reason this made him laugh, along with several other background actors who had by that time gathered around. My head was suddenly spinning. <i>Wait a minute</i>, I remember thinking.... <i>Did I just make Robin Williams laugh?! Isn't it supposed to be the other way around? </i> And then he went into a short schpeel about the tiny little pumpkin and I really do wish I could remember the details but looking back it was a bit of a blur because, quite honestly it was all very surreal. </div>
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Robin turned to his assistant and asked her to take the little pumpkin to his trailer. He thanked me for it and then headed for the set, leaving me and those around me feeling like V.I.P.s too. So often background actors are treated like human props. Rarely are we even asked for our names. Usually, it's: "YOU, go over there and walk down the hall", or "YOU, go sit on that couch and pretend to be on the phone." Or "YOU, go stand in the corner with... YOU and YOU...." as the 2nd A.D. points to wide eyed extras in the vicinity. But really, can you blame them? Are they supposed to remember all of our names, especially when we are only there for a day or so? None-the-less, being a background actor is humbling, and yes, humiliating at times.</div>
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But Robin made us feel as though we were part of the cast. He took the time to interact with us and he was as kind and genuine and funny as you might imagine he would be.<br />
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I'm almost done telling my My Robin Williams story, but there's one more quick chapter to it:<br />
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After Robin died I contemplated whether or not to write about giving him the little pumpkin and decided not to. But then about a week later, I received a clear message from the Universe when I was driving up the canyon to my home one early evening. There on the side of the secluded mountain road and far away from any structures was a small pumpkin all by itself sitting on a rock! It was about twice the size of the one I gave to Robin. Still small, but large enough to spot and it was perfectly healthy and orange (see the photo of me at the top of the page with it in my hands). I passed it by in disbelief then made a U-turn a half mile up the road and came back for it. I believe in signs and metaphors so when I picked up that pumpkin and put it on my passenger seat I smiled and thought to myself,<i> okay, maybe I'm supposed to share my story</i>. And that reminds me - THANKS for taking the time to drop by and read it!<br />
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<b><br /></b><b>More about Janine Cooper Ayres:</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.j9art.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.j9art.com</span></a><br />
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-10669093448449220062014-06-26T10:49:00.000-07:002014-06-26T11:56:28.892-07:00J-9's SketchbookEvery now and then someone will ask me the question: where does the inspiration come from when creating a new painting? Often times it is a very spontaneous process but every now and then there will be an initial sketch or doodle which I take to the next step. <br />
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These sketches and drawings often pop up while I'm talking on the phone, or on hold with some stupid utility company who leaves me hanging. And these doodles and drawings just linger on random pieces of paper until I either throw them away, file them or turn them into paintings.<br />
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Here is an example below of a sketch I did while I was somewhere in America, in a tour bus, while playing bass with an amazing band called Downy Mildew:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-X8xEv5MyIuyyt3a8AShWWhO4M4-NSTOcgVPf4zT_v1LSgzi4Jn07C7-Rz0v6yQnPytNTjlv_Kvaa2JEhE5Gt7uwq1V4pC2R6cU69E0EfntTDFXGS3NaK0G1Ok6yAouGVurosc2OqPWz/s1600/cali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-X8xEv5MyIuyyt3a8AShWWhO4M4-NSTOcgVPf4zT_v1LSgzi4Jn07C7-Rz0v6yQnPytNTjlv_Kvaa2JEhE5Gt7uwq1V4pC2R6cU69E0EfntTDFXGS3NaK0G1Ok6yAouGVurosc2OqPWz/s1600/cali.jpg" height="320" width="190" /></a></div>
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Her name is "Cali". Why does she have fish swimming around in a fish bowl on the top of her head? I don't know. I don't question these things. However, after I drew it, I decided that perhaps the fish represented thoughts, swimming around in her head.</div>
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About ten years after I did the sketch above I was in the mood to paint but I had nothing in mind for which to use as inspiration. So, I looked through my sketches and doodles and drawings and found "Cali". I painted her out on 16" x 24" canvas and now she is no longer lost under a stack of papers or filed away in my drawer somewhere.</div>
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A few years ago I learned how to make e-books. This has been an amazing experience and I'm having fun creating electronic books and showing friends and family members how to do it too. My latest e-book has just come out! It's available on Amazon.com. It's a collections of many of my drawings and watercolor paintings. If you would like to see a sample of the book, just click on the link below!</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCytt5hs2HGTJXo4a1_JWdgxlZRqb5l3xFxmJ2EvkSIutwfMqOzZRf5j90pJS4VfNRZcIZ8eje86pS4yb5caj2UyDZhBWYy-4PRVBbxcHJ5Mu1V23JYbDuZA4u2wvN4LtNlvijORZx9Tgl/s1600/j9sketchbook.jpg" height="400" width="316" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/J-9s-Sketchbook-Drawings-Sketches-Watercolors-ebook/dp/B00LAJM0NU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1403804180&sr=8-3&keywords=j-9%27s+sketchbook">http://www.amazon.com/J-9s-Sketchbook-Drawings-Sketches-Watercolors-ebook/dp/B00LAJM0NU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1403804180&sr=8-3&keywords=j-9%27s+sketchbook</a></div>
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-69928985561996361492014-05-23T23:33:00.001-07:002014-05-24T13:17:16.555-07:00Every Picture Tells a Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A long time ago I had the incredible good fortune to go on the road, playing bass guitar with a band called <b>Let's Active</b>. We were opening a string of concerts for <b>R.E.M.</b> and one particular night in Washington D.C. (after playing at George Washington University) we were a bit too amped up to just go back to our hotel rooms so we all ventured out to see a band called <b>Robyn Hitchcock and the Egyptians</b>. They were playing at a venue called the 9/30 Club. (Robyn Hitchcock is a brilliant songwriter who infuses British wit and humor into his music and art.) I had been a fan of his music even before that night. His band-mates Andy Metcalfe and Morris Windsor are incredibly talented themselves. I was introduced to them after they performed. A bunch of us all hung out and drank and laughed. It was a truly amazing night!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robyn Hitchcock - Nov. 12, 1986 - photo by J9</td></tr>
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Fast forward about five years: Robyn, Andy and Morris were recording their album, <b>Perspex Island</b> in Los Angeles. I was in a band called <b>Pet Clarke </b>at the time. We were invited to the studio to watch their recording session one night and I was sitting in a room watching Robyn lay down some tracks behind a soundproof glass window.<br />
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Robyn and I have something in common in that we both like to sketch and paint... Well, there on the coffee table was his sketch pad. I picked it up and looked through it, admiring all of the interesting images that he had sketched. Feeling inspired, I picked up a pen and began doodling toward the back of the sketch pad. I intended to take the page out before leaving that night so he would never know that I had invaded his art space. But as the night went on I totally forgot and left my sketches in his book.<br />
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It wasn't until about a year later when I purchased the CD that I saw one of my sketches again. It was on the back of the Perspex Island CD! Apparently, Robyn had handed over his sketch pad to the Art Director at A & M Records to go through for cover design possibilities. To say the least I was blown away, but then a bit perplexed because the photo credit said that all of the artwork was by Robyn Hitchcock. I didn't think too much of it, but the next time I saw Robyn I confessed to him and apologized too for sketching in his pad. Then I pointed out the sketch I had done, which was a Sphynx-like image of his bassist Andy. The look on Robyn's face was one of confusion. A somewhat maladroit moment occurred thereafter and then he said something like, "I didn't remember doing that sketch, but sometimes when I'm drinking I like to draw. I thought I might've forgotten that I had done that one." We actually had a good laugh about it. That sketch was even blown up and used on the back of the t-shirts created to promote that incredible album. (See photo below).<br />
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Fast forward another twenty years (crazy how time flies). I had always wanted to do a painting of that sketch and just a few months ago I finally did. (It's an acrylic on canvas -16" x 24"). It is available for sale, by the way!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">painting by Janine Cooper Ayres - copyright 2014</td></tr>
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Several years have passed since I've seen Robyn, Andy and Morris. They are some of the nicest and most talented guys I've ever met so I hope our paths cross again some day. (And if so, I'll bet Robyn won't let me anywhere near his sketch pad!)</div>
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J-9</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">J-9 and Robyn - photo by Jeff Davis</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robyn in the studio in L.A. - photo by J-9</td></tr>
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Click on the link below to listen to one of my favorite songs from Perspex Island</div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-7705514507099873042014-04-12T19:17:00.001-07:002014-04-12T19:17:43.336-07:00A few 'FIRSTS' for me!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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This month I'll be exhibiting at the Acton/Agua Dulce Library and it will be the first time that I display my photography so I'm kind of excited about it. It's also my first earthbound exhibit - no space junk! That is to say, none of my alien characters have been invited. It was a challenge because I have done a lot of sci-fi inspired paintings over the years. </div>
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When I realized that I didn't really have enough paintings to fill the room I resorted to exhibiting my photography. It actually worked out well because it inspired me to go through my photo archives and I discovered some incredible photos that I forgot I had even taken. It also reminded me just how much I love the earthly creatures that coexist on this planet with us. So, then I was inspired to write a song. And that was another first for me - writing a song to accompany an art exhibit. And then came a slideshow video which brought everything together! It's been a fun but frustrating process trying to align photos with lyrics - but most of all - trying to convey how important these creatures are to me. I hope that the focus is on them and not me. That was my main goal. </div>
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See more of Janine's art (and photography too by clicking on the link below:</div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUaq_d08bmA&feature=youtu.be">://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUaq_d08bmA&feature=youtu.be</a></div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-36799366497996287512014-03-15T16:40:00.001-07:002014-03-15T16:48:43.456-07:00BEFORE THEY WERE THE PRESIDENTS - My first e-book!About seven years ago I had an epiphany of sorts. I realized that I could only recite the first three presidents' names before I became unsure of who was next. This bothered me. Actually, it made me feel dumb and I don't like to feel dumb so I decided to write a song that would help me learn all of the presidents' names. And guess what? The song worked! I was surprised and sort of proud of myself too for learning all of their names. I recorded that song (called <i>These are the Presidents</i>) in my home studio and then another song idea came through. Eventually I had a complete CD's worth of songs so I recorded them all and released the CD on my own label (Music 2 Educate). The CD is called <i>Remember the Presidents</i>. I have since released three more educational CD's for kids. Every now and then someone will download one or more of my songs and it's always a thrill when this happens!<br />
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One of the songs that I wrote was called <i>Before They Were the Presidents. </i>I wanted to know what each of the presidents did before they went into office and I thought that others might like to know too. I also thought it might make a fun song. Even though all of the presidents had more than one occupation prior to their terms I chose one that was unique or different. For instance Harry Truman was a haberdasher and George W. Bush owned a sports team.<br />
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I wasn't very surprised to discover that many of the presidents were lawyers before being elected.<br />
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Recently I cracked the code for creating e-books. It really wasn't as difficult as I thought it might be. Once I got through the imaginary roadblocks I was able to start producing my own e-books and help others with theirs too.<br />
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And so, without further adieu, I'd like to invite you to read a sample of my new book, <i>Before They Were the Presidents, </i>inspired by the song I wrote of the same name several years ago. (the song or the book can be purchased for just 99 cents.) Just click on one of the links below.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/before-they-were-the-presidents-janine-cooper-ayres/1118403218?ean=2940148283218">nook Edition</a></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Before-They-Were-Presidents-Edition-ebook/dp/B00I3SJBCO">Kindle Edition</a></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.music2educate.com/"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Listen to the song!</span></b></a></div>
Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-6908930944867777192014-01-04T12:58:00.001-08:002014-01-04T13:11:57.169-08:00A Dream Come True For My Mom!<br />
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My mom is a great letter writer. Whether it's a letter to a friend, a relative, a congressman or newspaper, she's not afraid to express herself. It's a trait that I've inherited from her as well. I've received some wonderful notes from her throughout the years but a few days ago I received the best letter ever. I asked her if I could share it on my blog and she gave me her blessing. Although it is somewhat personal I'm posting it because I feel that it might inspire others to NEVER give up on their dreams. One of my mom's dreams finally came true at the age of 88! I am honored that I was able to play a part in making it happen (with a little help from Amazon and Barnes & Noble and the e-book revolution).<br />
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HERE'S THE LETTER:<br />
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<b>Dear Janine,</b><br />
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<b>In Munhall, Pennsylvania as a young girl, about 11 years old, I stayed with my Grandmother Milko and my Aunt Marian during the summer months. </b><b>They owned a delicious pear orchard surrounded by a stone wall that Grandfather Milko built and as I would walk around the grounds I dreamed of writing a book some day. (I was inspired by my literature teacher, Mrs. Renfro who was a great storyteller.) Any way, one day</b><b> I got a piece of paper and wrote on it, "<i>Some day I will write a book</i>". I folded the paper, removed some stones from the wall and hid the paper inside, then replaced the stones. </b><b>It was my dream, and Janine, you helped make it come <u>true.</u> </b><br />
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<b> Love always, Mom</b><br />
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The book that my mom is referring to is called <b>SELF PORTRAIT - A Collection of Poems</b>. She wrote most of these poems in the 1970's while raising four daughters. My father was playing the part of the busy executive in downtown Detroit, working long hours. My mom spent much of her time doing menial tasks around the house, but also within the poems it's clear that there was also a lot of soul searching going on. As her Christmas present this past year I edited her poems and created a book for her.</div>
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If not for the internet and on-line e-bookstores like Amazon and Barnes & Noble my mom's poems would've stayed in her notebooks. They would have been passed down to one of us - but otherwise never to see the light of day - or should I say, the light of the computer screen. But, it's a new world now. It's an amazing time for writers, artists and musicians who had to rely on publishers, movie studios and record labels in the past. As an artist I'm thankful to be living during this time in history. How many creative souls never had this kind of opportunity to express themselves in the past? To be seen or heard? To be acknowledged? Thousands if not millions I am sure.</div>
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If you would like to see some of my mom's poems, please click on one of the links below. You'll be guided to a page where you can read the first several pages at no cost. Or, if you would like to purchase her book the price is $2.99 for both the Kindle or nook. (It's also available as a regular book for $4.99 plus $2.00 postage & handling (contact me at: <a href="mailto:j9art_music@yahoo.com">j9art_music@yahoo.com</a> if you'd like to purchase a printed version and I'll send one your way.)</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Self-Portrait-collection-Poems-Cooper-ebook/dp/B00HHFBUH8">KINDLE EDITION</a> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></b><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9pKjXWlZdN0ML75QA7JEayFEP0ADG0TSKi34llS1erQpMUm158lPmx6lN9VAhOv5mMs2OJQtRLJivduIS8A4_0WmIwjI6GOrruaxspEJciz60ZqHt1894krNo5jKtWbbDa-z76trUOZY/s200/irenekindle.jpg" width="104" /> </div>
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<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/irene-milko-cooper"><b><span style="font-size: large;">nook EDITION </span>(Barnes & Noble)</b></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmy6LHTvH2y0jvtBmHygzHcKNAGCY0CM9i9TO2yBhXvLKmtDRcNXYWsCJQYDnWe2SH5Z6ms_KU5bYXAgb9jKfjLrqZTaxwawtY_CitycJVhtN06LKWRVbKWmx6WCVeABneUDl06DKw6aW/s1600/irenenook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmy6LHTvH2y0jvtBmHygzHcKNAGCY0CM9i9TO2yBhXvLKmtDRcNXYWsCJQYDnWe2SH5Z6ms_KU5bYXAgb9jKfjLrqZTaxwawtY_CitycJVhtN06LKWRVbKWmx6WCVeABneUDl06DKw6aW/s200/irenenook.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
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<a href="mailto:j9art_music@yahoo.com"><b><span style="font-size: large;">contact Janine for print version</span></b></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4V9_fjIVNbPGghpVdBD5YZvJdRDh_OlEBEOcbQ2nY3BSIBfMb6aXVqF_4CxYfzXU2AObSh28QzINAuv5-2Bz-DvVdgVOUDItbnJaii3BRirCnQI4t2-ATSQU9D76VN7g6RTmSYLXmwpO/s1600/thickpaperbackfront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4V9_fjIVNbPGghpVdBD5YZvJdRDh_OlEBEOcbQ2nY3BSIBfMb6aXVqF_4CxYfzXU2AObSh28QzINAuv5-2Bz-DvVdgVOUDItbnJaii3BRirCnQI4t2-ATSQU9D76VN7g6RTmSYLXmwpO/s200/thickpaperbackfront.jpg" width="125" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">There's one more thing I'd like to mention (or confess). Artists are generally somewhat needy and insecure - often seeking attention & approval from others. Unfortunately, I am no exception. I guess I just want to acknowledge my mom as an artist in her own right and to apologize too for not supporting her sooner. Better late than never I suppose, but it took way too long and for that I am sorry.</span></div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-74936508211098193252013-10-29T12:49:00.001-07:002013-12-06T08:36:37.703-08:00AUTUMN MAGIC<div style="text-align: justify;">
Growing up in Michigan, there was a feeling of magic in the way the leaves on the trees transformed each fall. Living there at such a young age though I didn't really appreciate the beauty at the time. For me the highlight was putting those leaves in huge piles and then, with a running start landing right in the middle of them until I nearly disappeared! I still remember the smell of the leaves and the fun I had with my family and neighbors. </div>
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Another highlight of Autumn was Halloween. I have a ridiculously sweet tooth, so going door to door to collect candy was just about the most exciting thing ever. But also - I loved dressing up and becoming a character for the day, first at school and then as I ventured out with pillow-case in hand. There was a sense of sadness in having to let go of that tradition as I grew older. Just one of the ways in which we leave our childhood behind as we go on to more serious ventures.</div>
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Several years ago I had the opportunity to record some songs in a real recording studio - the kind of studio that has a grand piano and an engineer on hand to press the 'record' button in a room behind glass. I was the receptionist at the time. The studio was in W. Los Angeles, called <b>The Village Recorder</b> and it's still there today. Just to give you an idea of the kinds of artists who have recorded there, here is a partial list:<b> Aerosmith, The Beach Boys, Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, Alice Cooper, Elvis Costello, Bob Dylan, George Harrison, The Doors, John Lennon and Elton John.</b> A more complete list can be found on Wikipedia. Not only was I the receptionist at the studio (in the early nineties) I was also the receptionist for <b>Robbie Robertson</b> of <b>The Band</b>, who had his office and studio upstairs. My heart always skipped a beat when he would come in or out of his studio, although I tried to play it cool whenever he passed by. He never knew what a thrill it was for me to be his receptionist.</div>
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The owner of the <b>Village Recorder </b>was <b>Geordi Hormel</b>. He came in to the studio from time to time while I worked there. He was an amazing but quiet presence. Instead of continuing the family beef business he decided to purchase the building on Butler Ave. He himself was a musician. Geordi died in 2006 as modestly as he lived, yet leaving quite a remarkable legacy behind.</div>
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The building itself was also quite infamous. Built in the 1920's, it was originally a Masonic Temple, built by the Freemasons. In the 1960's, the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi used it as his L.A. based Transcendental Meditation Center. I remember when I worked there marveling at the odd symbols in the hallways, on doors and windows. I didn't know at the time of its unique and eclectic history. It was converted into a recording studio in the late 60's by Geordi and was soon discovered by artists like <b>Steely Dan</b> (who recorded <b>Aja</b> there), <b>Frank Zappa</b> and <b>Bob Dylan</b>. The rest, as they say is (rock and roll) history.</div>
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But I digress... Back to my very own recording experience at the Village Recorder! There I was one night sitting at a grand piano - one in which <b>John Lennon</b> or<b> Elton John</b> may very well have once sat at, with my friend and co-worker at the huge board behind glass. He was kind enough to indulge me. I had asked a few times if I could record a few songs, perhaps on a rare slow night when most of the others had already left.</div>
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As I sat down to play, the sound of the grand piano was pure perfection! I improvised, as I often do and came out of the session with three of four decent tracks. </div>
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I held on to that tape for about ten years (mixed onto a DAT). I must have moved a dozen times during those years, but, I never lost track of that recording. I kept it with me in a shoe box full of cassette tapes even though I had a sinking feeling that I would die some day without anyone else ever hearing it.</div>
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But then eventually as the years rolled by something amazing happened. The music industry changed. It was no longer about getting that record deal on a major label and being discovered. It was suddenly about being your own record label. Discovering yourself and putting out your own music on the internet or college radio or just pressing it onto a CD and handing it out to friends and family. You might still be a small fish in a big pond, but, now you could at least SWIM in that pond! It was an incredible change - a new paradigm - which unfortunately has caused many record labels to scramble to reinvent themselves. But all in all, I believe it's been a good thing for artists - songwriters like myself who would never have had the opportunity to be heard otherwise.</div>
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So, I dusted off those songs and recorded a few new ones and put out a CD called <b><i>Winter Magic</i></b>. I gave my CD to friends and family for Christmas and sold a few too. And, then six years later came <b><i>Summer Magic</i></b>. And, now, my latest CD in the series is <b><i>Autumn Magic - s</i></b>even songs written and recorded in about a month's time in my home studio using a Tascam 8-track digital, which I love. (If I can figure out how to use this thing, anyone can.) </div>
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Yes - Autumn is a magical time, and working at the Village Recorder was too. (I hadn't planned on writing about my time at the Village but somehow the memory of it intertwined with my memories of Autumn!)</div>
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<b>AUTUMN MAGIC</b> is available on my website - </div>
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<a href="http://www.j9art.com/" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: large;">j9art.com</span></a></div>
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<br />Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-72950092922795039442013-08-29T09:18:00.000-07:002013-08-29T09:32:17.413-07:00QUOTABLE THOREAU <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I think about the people who have influenced my life in big ways, Henry David Thoreau immediately comes to mind. I really don't know when I discovered this amazing man who was one of the first environmentalists in the world, but he has shaped my way of living hugely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a nutshell, he teaches us to live in harmony with nature. To live simply. To not be greedy or gluttonous. "Let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand... and keep your accounts on your thumb-nail." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />I'm not going to lie and tell you that I've always had it glued together, following Henry's advice to the tee, living simply and without complications. I've had credit card debt go wild - I've multi-tasked at times, playing in two or three bands at once, two or three part time jobs, juggling like a wild woman, running from one task (or dream) to another. But, as I get older, and hopefully wiser, I'm learning the beauty of keeping it simple. I don't buy things I don't need. I don't buy things I can't afford. I keep it simple. Life is not a race to see who's going to win, it's an amazing journey and every day I get to live on this planet is a great gift.</span><br />
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My husband and I have always talked about having children, but not in the way that most might think. We wanted to have creative children. Projects. Books. Screenplays. Music, etc. We wanted to leave this world with meaningful co-productions but the years flew past and we just kept putting things off. Until this year! We now have six children (books). Our most recent is "Quotable Thoreau". And, as you can imagine I am very excited to announce its arrival! I hope I can introduce (or re-introduce) his works to many people with this book. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />If you would like to read a free sample - or buy the e-book please click on one of the links below. (Hopefully it will be available in print soon too.)</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Quotable-Thoreau-Inspiring-Quotations-ebook/dp/B00ENL2KR8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1377378581&sr=8-1&keywords=thoreau+ayres">AMAZON.COM</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/quotable-thoreau-henry-david-thoreau/1116524555?ean=9781483503851">Barnesandnoble.com</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the Life you imagined."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Henry David Thoreau</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Many thanks to my friend and talented musician Carolyn Downie for taking the photo of Walden Pond which graces the cover of the book.</span></span><br />
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-18527405510273455332013-03-06T19:21:00.003-08:002013-03-19T12:07:26.903-07:00HOW TO HAVE A MONEY MAKING GARAGE SALE - Now Available on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>CRACKING THE E-BOOK CODE</b></div>
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Last year when I told my parents that I wanted to learn how to write e-books and start an on-line publishing company I asked them to think of a book that we might be able to write together.<br />
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It didn't take long for their response. They knew immediately what they wanted to write about: how to have a money making garage sale. Over the past several decades my parents have gone to hundreds of garage sales, yard sales and estate sales. They've also hosted dozens and dozens of sales themselves.<br />
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With their vast knowledge I agreed that this would be an excellent choice. So I started with a rough draft and sent it up to them. They embellished on it and sent it back to me and then we did it all over again. (Writing is re-writing...)<br />
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We worked on the final draft together while on a cruise up in Alaska last September and then came the tough part. How the heck was I supposed to get it from my computer onto the internet? I read several 'how to' tutorials and I even purchased a subscription to an amazing website called My Ecover maker.com where I learned how to design e-book covers, but I still had this awful block when it came to finishing it. So instead I played 'Scrabble' on my computer for a couple of months. (I even made it to the 'elite' level.) <br />
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Then one day the planets must have aligned. My confidence made a rare appearance and I barreled through the concrete wall of fear that I had created over the months. AND I DID IT! <br />
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The flood gates are open now. Several more e-books are on the way and I'm assisting others with their e-books too (including my husband who now has THREE e-books available on Amazon.com!).<br />
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I'm excited about this new direction and I hope that I can help others with their e-books too. I still have a lot to learn but I think it's safe to say, I've cracked the e-book code!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Have-Money-Making-Garage-ebook/dp/B00BCV9CQ4/ref=sr_sp-atf_image_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1362624277&sr=8-1&keywords=how+to+have+a+money+making+garage+sale#reader_B00BCV9CQ4">Click here to read a sample from our book on Amazon.com!</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-to-have-a-money-making-garage-sale-jack-cooper/1114859493?ean=2940016357973">Click here to read a sample on your Barnes & Noble Nook</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meet the Authors! JACK, JANINE & IRENE </td></tr>
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MANY THANKS to Michael Dougherty (I took 2 excellent night classes from him) and local romance novelist Catherine Bybee (who gave me some excellent advice last year).</div>
Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-28911913294389006372013-01-31T20:15:00.004-08:002013-02-20T15:39:48.665-08:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">I'm very happy & honored to once again be exhibiting my paintings at the La Canada Flintridge Library during the month of February. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Below are the paintings on exhibit along with the price list. If interested in purchasing a painting or print, please e-mail me at:<span style="font-size: 19px;"> </span></span><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">j9art_music@yahoo.com</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 19px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Thanks!<b> <span style="font-size: 19px;"> J-</span></b></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 19px; font-weight: bold;"><i>nine</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQ6u31P76qVunIb0hPQqc-X7FdbDOhtoBkRpIAsJmHhAbguOpI5J-lnJ-OqEEmhu2SwH1UzkM2hdgX7oRmNAWQhMp35QEB_2_pQM7xQLcgsHwAes7XTDEkPMv4I0JUYtTiq1saCP53ahB/s1600/klina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="115" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQ6u31P76qVunIb0hPQqc-X7FdbDOhtoBkRpIAsJmHhAbguOpI5J-lnJ-OqEEmhu2SwH1UzkM2hdgX7oRmNAWQhMp35QEB_2_pQM7xQLcgsHwAes7XTDEkPMv4I0JUYtTiq1saCP53ahB/s200/klina.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Klina Dog - 18" x 28" </span> - $150.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Peace on Earth - 11" x 14" </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> - $100.00</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Hearts Acrylic - 11" x 14" </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">- </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold;">$125.00</span></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mexicat - Acrylic 11" x 14" - </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">$150.00</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Night Horse - print - <b><span style="font-size: x-small;">$50.00</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Felix - print - <b>$50.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sad Cat - print - <b>$50.00<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46xixP3ahXY3C-xQi174uzZ_bVITfnbIT2UiR8RvBCXtuYJTifnWS2aS3szkXcywTDG4zxPLyl6Iu5yaBB2K-NfB2Wq-GGvgTaVY2FQ_7qbK_o3dHtqlq4_nFjhfuh9A2xPP__63Uy1qo/s200/DSCN4282.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="144" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toraya - 16" x 24" - <b>$175.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNwNlJTydjkxVVJ-H6iClas2OnH7tTBD2tOWVfDdp1Fd9foq8vXXerSciCZA43oxrpP3t2gqlvaNaejPGvX1W-5y_YNLzqatpVXRNzxY_I-qEMIZmfyhHKgo2Gl1GMFyQNQMNuun7zhsB/s1600/annweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; font-size: 13px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnNwNlJTydjkxVVJ-H6iClas2OnH7tTBD2tOWVfDdp1Fd9foq8vXXerSciCZA43oxrpP3t2gqlvaNaejPGvX1W-5y_YNLzqatpVXRNzxY_I-qEMIZmfyhHKgo2Gl1GMFyQNQMNuun7zhsB/s200/annweb.jpg" width="159" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Head in the Clouds - 16" x 24" <b><span style="font-size: x-small;">$175.00</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mc3FenlfmcBb5Y2lZKVbPzJcZbu_g19VN45_3PGjJn0qiO4eisV2-HqEwh585pKgkm9vixsD4033zOW3kNPfxU5k8ezhZZXrKU4t9WxwbwAP4Jf84TzDgw0Pohv8kjo96MF1e_mhyphenhyphenlkT/s1600/winkweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mc3FenlfmcBb5Y2lZKVbPzJcZbu_g19VN45_3PGjJn0qiO4eisV2-HqEwh585pKgkm9vixsD4033zOW3kNPfxU5k8ezhZZXrKU4t9WxwbwAP4Jf84TzDgw0Pohv8kjo96MF1e_mhyphenhyphenlkT/s200/winkweb.jpg" width="156" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wink 11" x 14" <b> SOLD</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EOLJWN9wqaL5_H5WtOmIae_AqrnW5pD7LapV4x5uaJfMV7r-_ZhMvLgc9L8m2J5PTsJG5xlSqy8XNnAhNCyJVs8xxW7Wj6aZnLRgQj6sRIfff4Gr49KG_SQcMyVzIs7K5e7K5kNh7RL2/s1600/henry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EOLJWN9wqaL5_H5WtOmIae_AqrnW5pD7LapV4x5uaJfMV7r-_ZhMvLgc9L8m2J5PTsJG5xlSqy8XNnAhNCyJVs8xxW7Wj6aZnLRgQj6sRIfff4Gr49KG_SQcMyVzIs7K5e7K5kNh7RL2/s200/henry.jpg" width="153" /></a> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thoreau - 11" x 14" - <b>$200.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soleil - 11" x 14" <b>$150.00 </b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBETwnhqB_bTxR0xcWu8k2Edyk2SOCt3apBifLw2OOdFxymgurGpkmziXL8zGeZ49trrlnGvleIa5o4WWSBb_ac6sRbkajrBeSybPW2Ns2hIF3vAkGmN_V_w7YIAqTDQlvdZRBxhfywyt/s1600/eliptic1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBETwnhqB_bTxR0xcWu8k2Edyk2SOCt3apBifLw2OOdFxymgurGpkmziXL8zGeZ49trrlnGvleIa5o4WWSBb_ac6sRbkajrBeSybPW2Ns2hIF3vAkGmN_V_w7YIAqTDQlvdZRBxhfywyt/s200/eliptic1.JPG" width="143" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Elliptic 11" x 14" </span><b style="font-size: small;"> $150.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkKAw6ciwZHaoTZNmVLMWKgWW1tQTiGPukq7jGamhE8u7w-CHL5e1uvPvYUVLZwTmgiq-RIEgZNwlFNnyLdVlHXwl6UmqX2Gja5M-AoNiVYsR4NheyNapFHCsGlQ3SBN_LdzYO6GMdOGd/s1600/just+arrived.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkKAw6ciwZHaoTZNmVLMWKgWW1tQTiGPukq7jGamhE8u7w-CHL5e1uvPvYUVLZwTmgiq-RIEgZNwlFNnyLdVlHXwl6UmqX2Gja5M-AoNiVYsR4NheyNapFHCsGlQ3SBN_LdzYO6GMdOGd/s200/just+arrived.jpg" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just arrived - 16" x 24" - <b>SOLD</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCR7ovwLXwAlrDn038Q07bOLKjRKbwy1Vo-80Jtd4h44dmGaSv3tesVKYSXn-AwIB-CRnnAnmvOBBLH8OsCJKft7wIDibScmOqxEmNO8TE94H3mgwQQYuHUwPun5FH2V5DtmjzTVXPisNd/s1600/hope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCR7ovwLXwAlrDn038Q07bOLKjRKbwy1Vo-80Jtd4h44dmGaSv3tesVKYSXn-AwIB-CRnnAnmvOBBLH8OsCJKft7wIDibScmOqxEmNO8TE94H3mgwQQYuHUwPun5FH2V5DtmjzTVXPisNd/s200/hope.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Hopeful 15" x 15" $<b>150.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ins5HYcqBIrlP5dbCD-X3rs02Fh_75-B9WAe1BQ6AOz7M09e44qjbD3Tr79q6uxBZvYl2O9hrmGwOnfUXZEmB_iyB7NBV1VErayftgHj27SWFpfdFB1YwIF3GfL8b0uTTZ-0ftZe2L1Q/s1600/newcman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ins5HYcqBIrlP5dbCD-X3rs02Fh_75-B9WAe1BQ6AOz7M09e44qjbD3Tr79q6uxBZvYl2O9hrmGwOnfUXZEmB_iyB7NBV1VErayftgHj27SWFpfdFB1YwIF3GfL8b0uTTZ-0ftZe2L1Q/s200/newcman.jpg" width="151" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Candle 16" x 24" <b> $500.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpuNzUBqrGRfj2qQKB76qjQdqFFUcHwn67sK6jML5E0NZXJSKhnxl2wJ71pZy-9E6KOO4IpUKMlYKU7oyLvq1_3q0PCjyrr6H1kjzxk7L5POYVvh2RC6dlBcn9OZjuQFRWIHpFbn1veWw/s1600/j9web19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpuNzUBqrGRfj2qQKB76qjQdqFFUcHwn67sK6jML5E0NZXJSKhnxl2wJ71pZy-9E6KOO4IpUKMlYKU7oyLvq1_3q0PCjyrr6H1kjzxk7L5POYVvh2RC6dlBcn9OZjuQFRWIHpFbn1veWw/s200/j9web19.jpg" width="160" /></a> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Blue E.T. 11" x 14" <b>$150.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z7L6C0YTRBuX9tyj522kF8lJaQb_qaoOql3yzmqiZN8abBZWgvBO7JKDVdJuohJ-Zth-Bu7iyCd0YVupDZQ8Gu3LjZUZYpixyuFZUH0b5wDKp0A6tWI2PfQ_3HolfNdnlJxa_dAuzmUh/s1600/emmy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z7L6C0YTRBuX9tyj522kF8lJaQb_qaoOql3yzmqiZN8abBZWgvBO7JKDVdJuohJ-Zth-Bu7iyCd0YVupDZQ8Gu3LjZUZYpixyuFZUH0b5wDKp0A6tWI2PfQ_3HolfNdnlJxa_dAuzmUh/s200/emmy.jpg" width="158" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Emmy - 24" x 36" <b>$200.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Linda @ the Getty </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">24" x 36" </span><b>$200.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPS91xdTWmUtlJfdlfAr2FkD4lPaI1XFEfrwNGHApl2GoCuSjFH4XRymxKGWLsaDlQTN-ogf8hBVJwhmcMzQ5hxW6O9Q9XWes2v9QvWbarzsY_GaxDTDRODZWaxj7y9rliMZd5wBWs5uv/s1600/DSCN0682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPS91xdTWmUtlJfdlfAr2FkD4lPaI1XFEfrwNGHApl2GoCuSjFH4XRymxKGWLsaDlQTN-ogf8hBVJwhmcMzQ5hxW6O9Q9XWes2v9QvWbarzsY_GaxDTDRODZWaxj7y9rliMZd5wBWs5uv/s200/DSCN0682.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faith 16" x 24" - <b>$200.00</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGUf1d9mhLqIatgermMAFdz4R8vP3-35WZpxfMIKu_MoRLgudJz14LI2RfWTyYDSIyFle6f6LBkCbhwbGo4U5lqfecufLAojwaZ1WXdL0fglwpkkS7NMQdLXx4dl-3eSZCivppAD-C2dJu/s1600/hootowlweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGUf1d9mhLqIatgermMAFdz4R8vP3-35WZpxfMIKu_MoRLgudJz14LI2RfWTyYDSIyFle6f6LBkCbhwbGo4U5lqfecufLAojwaZ1WXdL0fglwpkkS7NMQdLXx4dl-3eSZCivppAD-C2dJu/s200/hootowlweb.jpg" width="151" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoot Owl - 16" x 24" - <b>$150.00</b></td></tr>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-15722123210636765702012-11-12T13:50:00.000-08:002012-11-12T13:50:00.839-08:00Jack Cooper's article in the Kodiak Mirror<div style="background-color: white; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
Proud of my Dad today (on Veteran's Day) and always, for being such a great man! Here's an article about him.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A Veteran recalls Kodiak Experience - </span><span style="font-size: small;">published on November 12, 2012 in the Kodiak Mirror</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2WzlIg6UspLMGwcXqFkNsy3l9LQUROSQ2VVN1zTiAqXigjJUjUjy9pyws_dBAbw0IDFSBhN-mapD16UQ4iWc-YX6rm6xQY8PNQDrSbTOuAprI1n-lBh1F_Vfa8EWDfn9bynGiv7fIwcC/s1600/band.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2WzlIg6UspLMGwcXqFkNsy3l9LQUROSQ2VVN1zTiAqXigjJUjUjy9pyws_dBAbw0IDFSBhN-mapD16UQ4iWc-YX6rm6xQY8PNQDrSbTOuAprI1n-lBh1F_Vfa8EWDfn9bynGiv7fIwcC/s320/band.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Jack is second from the right playing the saxophone </td></tr>
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Spring 1944 promised a surprise for both the civilian and military personnel of Naval Operating Base Kodiak. A press release announced that an all-girl dance band would arrive to perform for the whole community. Enticing ads appeared in the military newsletter and the Kodiak Daily Mirror. Flyers flew around town and anticipation grew. There were few enough women in Alaska, especially during the war years. The Navy had a local dance band on the island, but they were all men. This would be something different. <br /><br />The band’s sax and clarinet player knew it would be more than just different. It would be a complete surprise.<br /><br />The evening of the show, the naval auditorium filled with military and civilians. But it was mostly military men, anxious to get an eyeful of this all-girl band. With the curtain closed, and the band set up behind it, the lights dimmed and the sax and clarinet player placed his instrument to his lips and waited for the conductor’s signal.<br /><br />Soon Glenn Miller style big band music filled the theater and the audience waited anxiously. As the curtain crept opened, the applause and cheers and hoots grew to a crescendo. Then, as the band came into full view, the sax and clarinet player recalled, dead silence ensued. Anyone who has performed on stage knows this can be frightening — audience reaction can turn in many directions. In the stillness, the band could feel the audience studying them, observing the dresses and wigs and makeup and high heel shoes. <br /><br />Suddenly, the awkward silence turned to bursts of laughter and applause as the audience recognized the male members of the naval band and orchestra dressed in drag.<br /><br />The sax and clarinet player was 21-year-old Jack Cooper. This summer, I met him and his daughter, Janine Cooper-Ayres, while I worked my way through Southeast Alaska as the naturalist aboard the cruise ship Sea Princess. This was his third cruise to Southeast Alaska. I asked his daughter if her father had any photographs and was willing to share his memories. Back home, Janine rounded up several of Cooper’s photographs from the period, interviewed him about his experiences during the war, and sent me the photos and the transcript. I thank her for help in writing this story. (Janine is a singer, songwriter and artist in her own right. Google her name to check out her work.)<br /><br />Cooper was born in Plymouth, Penn. in 1923. His father was a professional musician who had a dance band, and Cooper grew up playing sax and clarinet at dances, theatrical events and on weekends. The family moved to Detroit, where Cooper graduated from high school. For a while, he worked at WXYZ-AM as the music librarian. <br /><br />That’s where Cooper was, in the radio station’s newsroom, when Pearl Harbor was bombed. He was one of the first people in Detroit to learn of that event. A co-worker ripped the story off the Teletype and handed it to Cooper to take to the announcer. He and two of his buddies enlisted right away. Cooper went as a rated musician, since he felt that was the best way he could serve his country. He was 19 years old. He trained for six weeks at the Great Lakes Naval Training Facility in Illinois as a musician 2nd class. He also played drums , did shore patrol duty, and was assigned to the bugle corps. From there he went to Bremerton, Wash. before his assignment at Kodiak.<br /><br />Cooper had never flown before, and he recalls the pilot making three attempts to land amid Kodiak’s steep mountains in the heavy fog and rain. It was autumn, and with the mild weather the landscape was still green. Kodiak was a frontier town to Cooper, with its muddy unpaved streets and its wooden sidewalks.<br /><br />Rehearsals with the small band and occasionally with the larger 16-piece orchestra during the day kept him busy as well as the performances at night along with one or weekly radio broadcasts. His band played at many local dances and Cooper recalls the residents of Kodiak being very hospitable toward the military. His unit had other duties and chores, including keeping the recreation hall in good shape. On his days off, he fished for salmon and trout and viewed eagles, bear and other wildlife. <br /><br />In addition to the all girl band program, Cooper recalls helping put on the largest stage production on Kodiak up to that time. They called it “This is the Navy.” Military personnel from all the branches of the service participated with the music, songs, costumes, stage scenery and lyrics. Many local civilians also took part. The show ran for several nights and got great reviews in the local newspaper.<br /><br />After 10 months in Kodiak, Jack Cooper’s unit was sent back to the States, but Cooper hadn’t fulfilled his overseas duty, so he was transferred to Adak. He spent some time in Dutch Harbor awaiting transport, keeping busy on guard duty along the docks — four hours on, eight off — around the clock. The memory of the darkness and the cold, foggy and wet weather remains with him today.<br /><br />Finally, he got a flight to Adak. It’s not so bad there, he was told — there’s a girl behind every tree. Of course, there were no trees on Adak and hardly a bush. (Today, a tiny grove of trees is ironically called the Adak National Forest). Cooper spent a year on Adak playing for dances with a seven piece jazz band. But he also trained to operate 20- millimeter anti-air craft guns, and was assigned to a bunker during general alarm alerts. <br /><br />Among Cooper’s memories of Adak were its limited food supply, and the rare event of a beer shipment allowing every man two bottles. He recalls the erratic weather — listening to the hard rain on his Quonset hut roof while playing poker with friends. Then silence, and when the soldiers looked out there was nearly a foot of snow. By morning it had turned to rain and the snow was gone. Rain, snow, fog, ice, hurricane-force winds called williwaws, and crashing waves, especially on the Bering Sea side of the island. That was life on Adak.<br /><br />Sunny days were so rare that, when they finally got one, the base commander declared it a holiday and gave everyone the day off. Cooper recalls the dark days of winter and the light days of summer — and a summer baseball game played at midnight.<br /><br />While he was on Adak, President Roosevelt visited the island, the last military base he visited before his death. Cooper and the Navy band stood in the rain for an hour waiting for the President’s arrival. The band eventually greeted and saluted him as his motorcade drove by.<br /><br />By December 1944, his time was up and he returned to Bremerton via a captured German luxury liner that had been converted to a troop ship. He recalls 20-foot to 30-foot seas and no one allowed on deck. Nearly half the troops on board became sick, and Cooper lost nearly 15 pounds on the 11-day voyage.<br /><br />“When I walked off that ship,” he says, “I was carrying my duffle bag and alongside that was a diddy bag containing my personal effects plus my saxophone and clarinet cases. I was pretty weak, but I was so thrilled and happy to be back on land … I could’ve carried a two-ton elephant.”<br /><br />When Cooper arrived in Washington, D.C., the war was still on. A two-week leave brought him back to Detroit, then to a music school in Virginia. Finally, he got an assignment as an armed guard at Camp Shelton in Norfolk, VA. There he recalls talking with many German prisoners of war. “We were in the base when the information came in,” he recalls. “The bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.” Two days later the Japanese surrendered.<br /><br />“Thanks, but no thanks,” was his response to joining the Naval Reserve. With his honorable discharge, he returned to Detroit and got a B.S. in Business Administration from Lawrence Institute of Technology under the G.I. Bill, working odd jobs, including band gigs, to supplement his income.<br /><br />During this time he met and married his wife, Irene. Together they raised four daughters. Today Cooper is 89-years-old, and lives in Grass Valley, CA with Irene.<br /><br />Most of us know a little about World War II in Alaska — about the coastal defense forts, the bombing of Dutch Harbor and the war in the Aleutian Islands. But we know little about the personal lives of the thousands of individual soldiers stationed here. Their photographs and letters and stories are still in family hands.<br /><br />Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower once said: “I know nothing which so improves the morale of the soldier as to see his unit, or his name, in print — just once.” Let his be a tribute in print to one veteran stationed in Alaska during World War II, and to the sacrifices he made — a small sampling of one soldier’s story.<br /><br />Doug Capra is a writer who lives in Seward. This article was first printed in the Seward Journal.</div>
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5516269774225852304.post-77170459479815975382012-08-17T14:46:00.000-07:002012-08-23T22:46:01.718-07:00My Hollywood Years - part 1<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I was young, living back in Michigan, I used to watch the Carol Burnett show religiously every Saturday night at 8:00 on CBS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was my idol.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to be a comedic actress just like her when I grew up!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But then my family moved to northern California and life was anything but funny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The move was traumatic and life became (melo)dramatic. I was so self conscious about EVERYTHING as are most adolescents.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But, still I had a fascination with the glamour and magic of Hollywood. So, when I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music, it didn’t take long for me to find my way into the entertainment industry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My first experience was as an ‘extra’ in a movie directed by Clint Eastwood. It was called “Bird” about the life of jazz saxophonist, Charlie Parker. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One day while on set, during lunch, Mr. Eastwood walked toward me with his tray of food. He nearly sat down right next to me. I sat there frozen as a statue as he approached - I probably scared him off with the look on my face as he slowly walked past me. He went on to sit a little bit further down at the same table - with the background actors! Later I found out that he sometimes ate with the extras. (I've worked on hundreds of productions since and have never seen a director do that.) He also had the most unique way of directing. He never yelled, "ACTION", it was more of a subtle nod of the head and a quiet, "Okay, let's go."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although I enjoyed background acting I couldn't get by on the wages, so I began doing temp. work. I was living in Venice at the time, near the beach and I rode my bike often. One day I passed by a disheveled group of warehouse buildings with the facade of a castle being built in front of one of them. I rode my bike into the lot which turned out to be the home of Roger Corman's movie studio. I really didn't know who he was at the time, but later found out he was "KING OF THE B-MOVIES - a producer who discovered actors like Jack Nickolson, Robert DeNiro and Dennis Hopper. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I was admiring the painters creating the look of carved stone on the make-believe castle facade I told them that I was a painter and asked how I might get involved in doing art on film sets. I was directed to talk with the Production Designer and he asked if I might be willing to do an 'internship'. I agreed and began working at Roger Corman Studios the very next day. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I worked for free for two days and then after that I became a paid employee making $75.00 a day! I went on to work at the studio for four or five months ("Time Trackers" and "Transylvania Twist" were a few movies that I worked on) and then I found out about another movie that was going into production. That's how it worked, and still does - you just start putting the feelers out - "What's next?" Who's crewing up?" "What's the budget?" "Is it union or non-union?" and so on... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My next job would turn out to be on a movie of the week being filmed at the legendary MGM studios in Culver City. It was my first time on a studio lot - and it was magical! I worked on a TV movie called "Till We Meet Again".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That project led into another one called "Solar Crisis" which turned out to be one of Charlton Heston's last movies! It was a Sci-Fi movie and we had to create otherworldly landscapes inside of a large warehouse somewhere in the Long Beach area.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During this time I moved from Venice Beach to a guest house in Santa Monica. I had heard that a movie about the rock band "THE DOORS" was crewing up so I gathered the courage to walk into the "Doors" production office with portfolio in hand and met the Art Director. She looked at my art work and said that she might have a job for me. And, indeed she did! I was hired to re-create Jim Morrison's sketches in the dozens of journals he wrote in while he was alive. Every couple of days I would go into the office and I'd be given a few notebooks to doodle and sketch in. (Somebody else had already done the writing part). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One day the Art Director took me in to Oliver Stone's office and introduced me to him. It was exciting to meet the famous director! I thanked him for the work and told him how thrilled I was to be a part of the project. When the movie came out I was anxious to see if my art had made it onto the screen. And, sure enough it had! There are two close-ups of my artwork and although I was never given a credit at the end of the movie I'll always know who's artwork it was on the screen! It was one of my highlights of being an artist in Hollywood!</span><br />
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Me & Fred Savage - while working on THE WONDER YEARS</div>
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Still on a confidence high, I rode that wave right into the production office of my favorite TV show at the time. It was called "The Wonder Years". I left my resume and portfolio with the Art Director (Bill Ryder) and hoped that he'd give me a chance to work on the show. A few days later I was called in to work! It was so unreal being on the set of a show that I watched all the time. I felt as though I'd already known the actors. And, everyone treated me with kindness from the start. I went on to work on that show for three years as their on-call set dresser/scenic artist! I remember the last day of filming. We were each given a Director's chair with our name on it. They served us lobster for lunch and there were plenty of tears and hugs to go around as we said our good-byes. When you work long hours with a crew you often create a bond. Although I've lost touch with those I worked with, there will always be a place in my heart for them and for the "Wonder Years".<br />
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MORE HOLLYWOOD MEMORIES TO COME!<br />
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Janine's art and music can be seen and heard @ www.j9art.com<br />
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Janine Cooper Ayreshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01995444005797572621noreply@blogger.com4