It’s Halloween and I’m inside the 944 office literally closing my next issue. One of national editors, Kirby showed me her homemade star trek badge. She made this  with cardboard paper, electric tape and a silver sharpie. Ingenious!

And speaking of ingenious, peep these kicks that I saw Kirby rock. I don’t know what it is about these shoes, but I gotta say these are one of the sexiest pairs of shoes I’ve seen on a girl for a while. The lining of these shoes are plaid as well. And peep it, they cost only $44.99!  - Lemon Drops!

Rolled out to Smashbox studios in Culver city for some photo show. Vibe was nice. Good people. Open Bar. In-n-out burger truck. People are still celebrating in hard times. Sometimes art is the only relief.

Last night I rolled out to Winstons with Neran (Agenda/DCMA) and met up with Adey (BCBG) and Kenny (Belvedere). We had a table in the back and enjoyed ourselves. The place was packed with Ryan Best djing to music videos and doing his thing. The turnout was insane, I never been to Winstons when it was that packed before. 

When we left I couldn’t help but look at this sign across the street. WTF?! Funtasia? Does Funtafrica make it any more right? I dunno, I’m confused on this one…

I find myself stopping by the House of Spirits everyday after work. No, I don’t think I’m an Alchy, but I cannot deny myself a neat shot of Jameson whisky nor a glass of red to cap the night. Or maybe it’s the economy.

Been busy at the 944 office working on my next issue which is the “Food” issue. I also had a chance to include a few editorial gems in there too. Here’s a sneak of what’s to come. “Portrait of Rei” by DPD (Sleepy Takeover/FRA). 

I went over to Mario’s and Orli’s house last night they showed me Orli’s latest creation. Obama-lanterns…nice.

Chris (Stampd Los Angeles) sent me a pair of kicks. I met Chris a few years back at The Social Trust during one of our clearance sales. Back then Chris was customizing Chucks based on commission. A few years later, Chris is releasing a range of footwear that carries his aesthetic. I saw a pair of these Jordan inspired kicks and had to have them, afterall I am the dude who first came up with the Sunks (dunk socks) concept several years back. Post modern design that comments on consumption is my favorite design. Can’t wait to rock these…

I’ve been spending more time at the Evil Monito studio in the evenings. Plotting a few things…

I was invited to speak at an academic conference held at UC Santa Barbara at the request of distinguished leading Ethnic Studies Professor George Lipsitz. I was honored for the invitation so I did my best that I could in mustering up a presentation. I showcased the history of how I built Evil Monito, the various people in my life that provided my guidance and gave me the inspiration that I needed to blaze my own path. I was humbled when hearing the presentation of the others who worked in the field of education, activism, hip hop community organizing, to independent film. The highlight of this conference was meeting Professor Tricia Rose, whom I sought so much inspiration from. Her book, “Black Noise” (whom Dr. Lipsitz wrote the preface) changed the way I look at popular culture. I was a bit star struck to have met her, I hold her in such high regard. To put it this way, when I interviewed Mos Def a few years ago, many of her teachings and viewpoints set the premise for my interview. It felt so good to be around so many thinkers in one room. Lately the academic bug has been getting in me to maybe return to school for yet another calling.

For many living in Los Angeles, you cannot escape Eddie Cruz’ influence in the streetwear retail game. The man has laid down the foundation for some of the most notable and well established brands in our industry. He currently owns Union LA, Stussy LA, co-owns Supreme LA and co-owns the UNDFTD brand and stores. Eddie is soft spoken and he is attentive when you share a discussion. We’re working with Eddie on a few projects and welcome his voice and opinion. Always an inspiration and generous with his time, a pleasure to have met your acquaintance. Let’s keep building!