Marshall Finds

Usually I don't buy clothes at Marshall's or Ross or any other store like them. These off-price stores, though they sell "brand names for a good values" (I'm not sure if that's their actual slogan, but I swear they always use derivatives of "brand names" or "value"), quite simply lack good selections in wear. They friggin suck at stocking clothes is what I am trying to say. However, it is true that, once in a rarer-than-usual blue moon, one will find a good deal. Well, today, being dragged into Chicago's Marshall's along the Magnificent Mile by my mother, I found two pretty decent items.



First, I found the yellow chinos pictured above from Ralph Lauren's Rugby line for $4.99! "Wait, what? Yellow chinos? Just how the hell will you wear them, Jon," you may ask (if you are there). They're a pretty daring wear-it's true-but imagine this shit in a blue blazer/BD for SS. That way you will also see my huge sartorial balls bouncing in the bulge through the summer heat. I'm sorry for that image.



Also, looking through RL's Rugby online can lead to finding some questionable items. Normally, Ralph Lauren can add some creative but interesting flares to their clothes; but Rugby takes it on a whole 'nother level. For example, why the fuck is some guy wearing a cricket jacket for dinner? What kind of bullshit is that? Nobody with proper manner would be caught wearing sportswear in a respectable establishment. That shit belonged out in the field, son.

Yet, the pants are pretty great considering the price I got them for. And I can't disagree with a brand that tries to sell classic menswear to newer audiences. Also, they're pretty slim, but I'm a young guy so I should be able to pull that off, right?



Now imagine my excitement when I found another pretty decent accessory: a Kangol wool driving cap! But, what is Kangol? Well, I didn't know at the store either but I looked at the back and it said, "100% Pure Virgin Wool (!)" added with an official Wool Mark so it must be worthwhile, especially when it's $14.99. Apparently, with further research, Grandmaster Flash helped make the cap into a hip-hop classic so Fuckin' A. Plus, I think I look awesome in it.

(At first, I thought about adding a picture but I was like nah)

Then, what did I learn today? Well, I learned to make the most of what I have with opportunities. If it weren't for my mom pestering me to look in the Men's section, I wouldn't have these two items added into my wardrobe. It also helps when you don't have to pay for them. Now, I still wouldn't recommend people going into off-price stores to find clothes. It was a pretty hard experience still trying to find these two items. I searched for a while and these were all I came up with. Compared to Thrift Store shopping, good finds are as rare as double rainbows, I guess. Yet, if you are there and are being forced to look around, go right ahead! You may end up finding a good (brand) for a high (read:decent) value like me.

Space Graffiti!

Hey guys,

I think it has been close to a year since I made my last post. I don't really have any reasons for not doing so, other than school and work. Those are lame reasons though considering that I've made two separate blags since then. In fact, I'm pretty sure each of the Three Genius Minds have their own blags and whatnot.

Although, I don't think that will stop me from occasionally posting. Actually, I think you (if any of you are out there) will read more of my posts than the other two. It's just like the good old days!

So, here's a continuation of those Facebook graffiti posts I made such as "A Personal Hobby" or "One." Looking back, I kinda feel like a douche for posting such work for the blatant reason of fishing some compliments. Hell, I still think I may be, but that's not really the point. I'm saying that I will start posting again and my first post in a while is a callback to previous posts about my lame arts. Okay?

So, enjoy some motherfucking space

LEVI's

Levi's jeans can be described as one of the most iconic brands in American culture. Started out as a brand that was worn by miners, it soon became something that everyone was drawn to. The 1960's-70's was known to be the blue jean era, and it was during this time that Levi's really set off. Now I don't know too too much about the history of Levi's, but I'm sure getting there. One thing for sure is the change overtime of the "Red Tab" found on all Levi's products. Anything from before 1971 had tags that read "LEVI'S" with the capital letter E, but they have switched it up to "Levi's" till this day. Another good thing to note is that they went from a single side "LEVI'S" labelled red tab to a double side labelled red tab in 1955 when they introduced their boxier fitting 501s. Anyways here is a jacket I went on a hunt for today and as of now I am in love with it.

Everybody, Embrace Mr. Kanye West For Who He Is.

(via Pigeons&Planes)

It's Dora The MOTHERFUCKING Explorer!

The Break-Up Song.

Final Days

The Next One.

(via hiphopdx)

Reservoir Dogs.

(via eyeonspringfield)

Risk.

Foreman: "Do you think I'm boring?"
Chase: "Yes."
Foreman: "You're saying that just to screw with me."
Chase: "Yeah! Why would you expect anything else?"
Foreman: "I expect House to pull my strings, I expect Cameron to make me feel better, I expect the new team to kiss my ass, and I expect you to be honest, 'cause you don't give a crap."
Chase: [thinks for a moment] "Yes. You're boring. That speech was boring."
Foreman: [sarcastic] "Thanks so much."

Chase: "You don't let other people's problems affect you. You don't let your own problems affect you, and it's the screw-ups that make us interesting. You're never out of control, which is good... and boring. Never losing control means you're never putting yourself out there, never pushing your limits. On the other hand, you do have a tattoo, so maybe I'm wrong."

Power.

Original Flavor.

Kanye West - Barry Bonds (Ritchcraft Remix)

Download Kanye West Barry Bonds (Ritchcraft Remix) mp3

I RESPECT that!

THE Big 3.

The beginning of the Miami Heat Dynasty.

Lissie's Pursuit Of Happiness.

Creme Cycle

Bryan Colangelo.

Believe it or not, Toronto sports fans are spoiled with the current management situations surrounding their beloved sports teams. After having to endure the inept managerial decision-making of the most recent former general managers Rob Babcock (Raptors), John Ferguson Jr. (Leafs), and J.P. Ricciardi (Blue Jays); Toronto fans are fortunate enough to now have savvy, cunning minds forming concise visions of success for their respective franchises. The Blue Jays cultivated Alex Anthopoulos, a bright 33-year old who had been the club's scouting director since 2003. On the other hand, the Maple Leafs hired Brian Burke, a proven commodity in the NHL who has a reputation for winning with tough, talented teams, most recently with the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in `06-`07. On February 28, 2006, the Raptors hired a man possessing both the youth of Alex Anthopoulos (Colangelo was born in 1965) and the experience of Brian Burke (15 years in the Phoenix Suns organization - 11 years as general manager, including 7 as president), to go along with his media-savvy, bold decision-making, charismatic personality, and visionary outlook.

My fellow Raptors' fans, I understand the criticisms after enduring a very disappointing past season. The uncertainty surrounding the organization is at an all-time high, thus any skepticism is understood. With Chris Bosh's impending free agency, the Hedo Turkoglu trade request fiasco, inconsistent defensive efforts, and underachieving players operating under a talented, yet inexperienced coach; the Raptors are momentarily stuck in a situation that seems tougher than the team's mentality as they crumbled down the stretch post-all-star break, falling from 5th place to 9th. However, as grim as it all seems, all is not lost. Very quickly, the 24-11 stretch in the middle of the `09-`10 season was forgotten and Bryan Colangelo, the man who assembled this group of basketball players, was thrown under the bus.

How easy is it to forget that the Raptors have been in a similar situation before. In fact, the same managerial leader carryied us through the tumultuous terrain, and lead us to a 47-win season and the Atlantic Division crown. Admittedly, Bryan Colangelo's first season as the Raptors' GM went incredibly well and raised expectations sky-high. Indeed that magical season was the peak of Colangelo's tenure as GM, but halfway through this most recent season, that aura was evidently back. The fall from the comfortable 5th place position was hard, but the promise was there. There is no doubting the amount of talent on this current Toronto Raptors' squad.

I believe. It was the mantra inherited during Vancouver's 2010 Winter Olympic Games, and it is the mantra that Raptors' fans worldwide should share. Bryan Colangelo has a plan. He always has a plan. Regardless of what will happen in the next few months, Raptors' fans should be certain that Bryan Colangelo will do everything in his power to make this team competitive.

Yes, the Hedo Turkoglu trade was disasterous, but the vision was definitely there. With Toronto's limited cap space, Colangelo had to be creative in order to acquire an established asset without sacrificing depth. Somehow, he facilitated a 4-team trade that involved sign-and-trades with both Shawn Marion and Hedo Turkoglu, thus maintaining the team's depth, and ensured he would have a mid-level exception to offer and use to sign Jarret Jack.

Furthermore, a stroke of genius was the trade of Carlos Delfino and Roko Ukic to the Milwaukee Bucks for Amir Johnson and Sonny Weems. This trade helped both teams (Delfino went on to play a pivotal role in helping the Bucks make the playoffs). Amir Johnson and Sonny Weems are promising, young players that are nowhere near reaching their potential. Furthermore, the two young athletes formed a close triumvirate along with Demar Derozan. The trio is working out in Toronto, seeking to improve their respective skills.

Truthfully, I could continue reminding fans and critics alike about the many bold moves Bryan Colangelo has made. Not all his transactions worked out (Hedo Turkoglu, Jermaine O'Neal, Jason Kapono, Fred Jones), but his willingness to fearlessly take risks, searching for the right mix of talent and chemistry, lead to the acquisitions of Andrea Bargnani, Demar Derozan, Jamario Moon, TJ Ford, Anthony Parker, Jorge Garbojosa, Rasho Nesterovic, Amir Johnson, Sonny Weems, and Marco Belinelli.

Before proclaiming that the Toronto Raptors are headed for a tailspin to the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, it would be wise to remember who is leading them. Bryan Colangelo is confident in his ability to build a winning team, and he should be. He has the decorated resume and proven track record. He will ensure that the Toronto Raptors get back into the playoffs.

3GM.

What I love about the 3GM is how vastly different our posting styles are. It is almost too obvious who is writing or posting new material. I have not posted in a while, but I have an idea dormant. All I need is a creative spark.

For the love of Filson

Filson Rugged Twill and Bridle Leather
The toughest luggage you'll ever own

Nearly indestructible, Filson luggage is built to withstand continual use on the move under the most arduous conditions.

Our Rugged Twill is an industrial weight 22 oz. per yard. Densely woven for superior strength and long lasting toughness. Before assembly, this fabric is soaked in our special paraffin based wax, making it highly water repellent. The fittings are just as tough -- brass zippers and padlocks to resist corrosion in fresh or salt water and full-grain vegetable-tanned bridle leather from the strongest part of the hide.

Meticulously made at our factory in Seattle, Washington, the quality of our luggage is unsurpassed. Each piece is made to last a lifetime. Clean by wiping or brushing only--gains character with use.

Our duffle bag will carry a 1968 1500 c.c. Single Port Volkswagen engine. Will yours?

How tough is a Filson Rugged Twill bag? To find out, we loaded a 1968 1500 c.c. Single Port Volkswagen engine in our Extra Large Duffle, and hoisted the bag and engine six feet in the air. The duffle and the engine both survived. Safety warning: this Volkswagen engine weighs 230 pounds. If you choose to try this experiment at home (which we don't recommend), please use appropriate safety equipment to avoid risk of injury (to yourself -- you won't hurt the bag.)

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I truly love my bag, and I feel it'll last me a lifetime. Shoutouts to Urban Outfitters for their collaboration and supply of Filson products. Andrew, you know what I must ask of you...

Miguel ft. J.Cole - All I Want is You

Showing Wifey the Ol' Neighborhood

June 01, 2010

Mars vs. Venus

I hate this concept. Not all guys are the same; just like not all girls are the same. More on this though later.

Under Construction.

working on a new layout...or maybe I like this one...

LASERS.

Better Late Than Never.

The inability to acknowledge consequences, establish priorities, have initiative, and overcome adversity just baffles me. On April 16, 2010 at 2 pm, I will start the MATH 1505 calculus exam - an exam that I know I cannot do well in. If I don't achieve a certain grade, I will have failed the course. Never before had this once annual honour roll student and former winner of his elementary school's academic excellence award had to admit his failure of a course. When you leave high school, you are supposed to have a better understanding of who you are, or at the very least know the direction you intend on going. Recent years have culminated into a disturbing downward trend ultimately leading to this point. When one's self is established as being in an esteemed position, the fall from said place is a long way down. Amidst the turmoil, of being a product of one's environment or through self-inflicted wounds, the leader cultivated in grade 11 leadership must shine through. Potential is the dreaded "P" word that is either attained or despised by those unfortunate enough to ponder "What could have been". I am not a nobody. Through re-examining those close to me, undergoing inopportune circumstances, and gaining sociocultural lessons through my first year courses (KINE 1000 & HUMA 2740), I know I want to make a difference. Fear permeates me because of all the uncertainty regarding my present and my future. However, I have gained perspective. Material aspects of life have become irrelevant to my goal; I need the intangible: the ability to proudly state that I will be successful, the willingness to do whatever it takes, and the determination to overcome any socioeconomic or sociocultural barriers in doing so.

Lupe Fiasco: Spoken Word Freestyle in NYC.

Night Terrors.

Insomnia. It is a physical and mental grind to have endured such a prolonged bout with abnormal sleeping patterns. When confronted with a haze of emotions and cataclysmic circumstances, one may see this sleep disorder as liberating rather than hazardous. Alas, alone with your thoughts, uninterrupted by the demanding and persistent pressures of the real world. A time for self, a time for reflection, and a time to do you as all the world soundly sleeps.

The Cool.

"The Cool": Broken Down By TGRI
True Greatness Requires Insanity (TGRI) provides an excellent writeup for lyrical mastermind Lupe Fiasco's classic "The Cool" album. Check it out!

Japanese Chip Commercial LMAO.

Friends.

Wikipedia: "Friendship is a type of companionship, that a human towards another human being can have. It's a bond in which one has a feeling towards another one. Friendship is the cooperative and supportive relationship between people. In this sense, the term connotes a relationship which involves mutual knowledge, esteem, affection, and respect - along with a degree of rendering service to friends in times of need or crisis. Friends will welcome each other's company and exhibit loyalty towards each other, often to the point of altruism. Their tastes will usually be similar and may converge, and they will share enjoyable activities. They will also engage in mutually helping behavior, such as the exchange of advice and the sharing of hardship. A friend is someone who may often demonstrate reciprocating and reflective behaviors. Yet for some, the practical execution of friendship is little more than the trust that someone will not harm them."

Another sleepless night, though this time productive with work for my essay being done, and another lesson from a television show. Watching 'House', I cannot help but notice the relationship between House and Wilson. How can such opposite people be friends? House is a cynical narcissist with a Rubik's complex (the need to solve the puzzle) while Wilson is the ultimate altruistic person. Their odd, yet flourishing, relationship has driven me to think about my own relationships in life. Friends and family always poke fun at me because it is impossible for me to have any enemies. I hope it would be a good quality to have: the ability to see the good in everybody. I always believed it to be a problem that my friends do not always see eye-to-eye. Indeed, it is an obstacle. However, each of them come from an abundance of places and have various background stories. It is their variability that keeps them so interesting. It is a reason I avoid shutting anybody different out. Everybody has their little quirks. I think it is from these qualities, these unorthodox methods/habits, where you are able to learn the most about a person, or better yet, reveal something for your own evolution.

Happy Anniversary Trip of a Lifetime.

"The delay at the Airport - stayed from 1-7, Cheering as the plane landed, Stepping out of the airplane and getting the first view of beautiful palm trees, First night drinking after unpacking, Waking up in the morning to knock on any friend's door to figure out plans, Summer all day & everyday, Swimming pool, Beach, Beach volleyball, Snorkeling, ATV/Buggying, Getting left in the middle of nowhere with Chris because our Buggy's engine broke down and they forgot about us, Chris driving full on into a tree, Cigars, Disco, Bat Cave, The Saturday night I do not remember, Almost getting kicked out due to inability to function on the Saturday night I do not remember, "YOU FUCKED UP!", "Whatevs", The morning after the Saturday night I do not remember, Endless food, Ordering a bottle of wine for dinner, Riding the bus to the events, Singing songs on the bus rides, Drunken S-Trip Canadians singing 'O Canada' on the bus, Hotboxing Saul's washroom, "One Punta Cana Dominican Republican Second", "What happens in Punta Cana, STAYS IN PUNTA CANA", Strawberry Daiquiri, Tequila Sunrise, Vodka Lemonade, Vodka Cranberry, 151 shots, Tequila shots, Amaretto Sour, Rainbow, Banana Mama, Pina Colada, Rum & Coke, and the memories can go on forever...
S-Trip: Punta Cana, Domincan Republic Trip 2009; The best trip ever."

What is written above is what I wrote on March 23 of last year. Listening to music, I stumbled upon "Kids" by MGMT. Rather than attempt to sleep at this hour, I decided to make this blog post. Reading and continuously rereading my run-on paragraph causes all the memories to come rushing back to me. Tell me how great a trip back to Punta Cana would be right now.

Yearbook.

Ah, the final high school yearbook. Despite it probably being the worst yearbook in my four years in high school, it is the most important. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. As I flip through the numerous photos highlighting the unforgettable memories and momentous events, I sure get nostalgic. Through the rough patches, and through the best of times, cheers to the most unforgettable years of my life. Here are some pictures from Senior Year:

Emmuel's 19th Birthday Party

Semi Formal `09My 18th Birthday PartyAndrew's 18th Birthday PartyStephanie's 18th Birthday PartyKaren's Valentine's Day PartyPunta Cana Spring Break Grad Trip `09Prom `09Prom Date: Patricia JacobEnd Of High School Warehouse PartyPamela's 18th Birthday PartyHigh School Graduation