Friday Funnies

Yesterday was a super long day at work. Sheldon and I were in the office by 6:00 am and we finally left at 8:15 pm. Sheldon had a few walks and of course had plenty of snacks, toys and treats available at his whim. Anyway I was way too tired to write much of a blog post, but I thought it would be fun to share a few funny pet photos I've been hanging onto. I can't even imagine how upset the person was who owned the laptop in this photo! I'm not sure you could ever get that dog pee out of the keyboard! Anyway, here are two more funny dog photos. Hope they make you smile too.

above: Sheldon dreams about being able to drive himself someday.

above: This Chihuahua with the toupe is just way too funny. Happy Friday all.

-Rick Rockhill

Of Being Stupid...

Ever done anything so stupid that the next day you find yourself feeling dumb as a box of rocks and asking yourself: "What was I thinking?" Well just the other day, I saw a woman who resembled the wife of an old buddy of mine. Without warning, my mind was flooded with memories of a night gone wrong. Its not something I would write about here, but suffice to say it was one of those nights where I just wasn't thinking. How is it we can get into things and not realize the implications of our conversations/actions until it is too late? I remember it clearly. We were having a long conversation and somehow I got it wrong. I misinterpreted what my friend was saying and never stopped to "visually check" for cues, like nodding head in agreement, or even a "yup" back at me. Before you know it I made an assumption and started to run my mouth, even talking about his wife-inadvertently making my friend uncomfortable without knowing it. Where was my mind? How could I have been so clueless and non-observant? I've always considered myself to be much more astute and self-aware. But not that time. I ran into my friend the next day and had a polite, but forced conversation. I've never spoken to him since. I've spent a long time "beating myself up" over my stupidity of that night, and know that it is probably best just forgotten. So I've written this post as a cathartic exorcism of sorts. Hey, my conscience seems to have cleared up...I feel better already. But oh, why was I so stupid???
-Rick Rockhill

Modernism Week in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is known for many things; a near perfect year-round climate with dry heat, 360 degree stunning mountain views, pristine golf courses, a get-away playground for Hollywood celebrities and a fantastic array of fine dining. But Palm Springs is also noted for having an impressive amount of well preserved mid-century modern architecture. There are numerous examples of the quintessential mid-century style designed by giants such as Albert Frey, Donald Wexler, Richard Neutra, and E. Stewart Williams, among others. Palm Springs has an abundance of "Alexander Homes", named for the developer who popularized the post & beam design style in Palm Springs. These mid-century gems are identifiable by low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, open-beamed ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and also narrow horizontal windows. Many homeowners of this style have embraced the mid-century style by furnishing these homes with modernist art and furniture. As a result Palm Springs has attracted a huge amount of new and resale shops that specialize in this style. The modernist style is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and Palm Springs has become a mecca for all things mid-century modern. Thus the annual Palm Springs Modernism Week was born several years ago.

Modernism Week is the combination of a Modernism Show held at the convention center, events/lectures and tours by the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation, Palm Springs Historical Society & Palm Springs Modern Committee, exhibits at the Palm Springs Art Museum and parties, galore! The activities all week cover everything from art, architecture, design and furnishings. Artists, designers, writers, photographers, architects and students from around the world descend on Palm Springs to live, learn and experience the modernist style and re-live the era. There are several groups that participate and sponsor events all week long:
The Palm Springs Modern Committee participates to promote and maintain the heritage of mid-century modern architecture and design. Year long, they serve as a resource for residents and nonresidents who identify and appreciate mid-century modern style. They also rally supporters to preserve significant buildings in the Palm Springs area.

The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation is another group that participates. They are also a non-profit group that focuses on educating the public to identity and recognize our historically important modern sites. In particular they attempt to maintain the very elements that make Palm Springs unique from other communities in the area. (at left: photo of Palm Springs City Hall entrance). Another important partner in Modernism week is the Palm Springs Art Museum, which itself is housed in an architecturally significant building designed by E. Stewart Williams. Right now, the Palm Springs Art Museum features exciting exhibitions that include modernist style and also offers lectures and discussion groups.
Finally, the Palm Springs Modernism Show hosts a large number of decorative and fine arts dealers known nationally and around the world. The show, held at the Palm Springs Convention Center will also include vintage mid-century furniture, art, and furnishings available for purchase. It is truly a mecca for anyone who appreciates this style. Whether you want to stay at an authentic mid-century modern hotel, buy something for your home, or come to learn, this is the place to meet and greet other folks who live and love modernism. So grab your martini glass and visit Palm Springs. This image here at left is from the Modernism website and promotes a cocktail party being hosted at the former Twin Palm's estate of Frank Sinatra. I've been to this home many times for various events, it is a marvelous example of mid-century modern style-complete with a swimming pool shaped like a piano. I'll try to share another post on the events of this week, so stay tuned!

-Rick Rockhill

Sunday Art Review: Statues Galore

With the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday this past week, I found myself drawn back to a post I did on July 15, 2007 that included a visit to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC. As I re-read that post I was reminded of the awesome presence and impression it had on me that day. I started thinking how amazing it is that a statue made of cold, hard materials could convey such emotion and warmth. For some reason, it became the inspiration for this week's Sunday Art Review: Statues Galore. I dug up a series of photos I had taken recently of statues that had not yet been included in a previous post here. And so without much fanfare, I present a small collection of statues for your enjoyment.


above: "Realism in Femininity" in bronze

above: "Serenity Woman", fiberglass

above: Serenity Man, fiberglass

above: Aphrodite, in marble

above: I'll call this "Kew Gardens Man" because I don't know the actual title of artist.

Well that's all for this week's Sunday Art Review. It was short and sweet. Hope you have a great Sunday

-Rick Rockhill

Jersey Boys, a Terrific Broadway Musical

In my haste yesterday I forgot to mention that over the weekend I had some free time Sunday night to see a Broadway play. Over the years I have seen a number of Broadway plays and musicals, depending on what is hot or interests me at the time. This weekend it was Jersey Boys, a musical based on the lives of the 1960's rock band the Four Seasons. The Four Seasons were one of the most popular bands of the era and captured the hearts of millions. The play tells the story of four "wise guys" from New Jersey with incredible talent who make it big. The play Jersey Boys has won four Tony Awards for its score and storyline. The show pulls you in to the plight of these talented teens and their turbulent rise to super stardom. Although Frankie didn't found the group, he was the lead singer and became the face of the band, which eventually was renamed Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. There are so many times during this performance when the audience genuinely feels as if it is Frankie Valli himself singing. I was surprised by the number of songs I recognized and found myself singing and humming along, tapping my feet. This was a band with real #1 hits like "Sherry", "Big Girls Don't Cry", "Walk Like a Man", "Rag Doll" and "December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)". When Frankie Valli did solo work, he went to number 1 on the charts with "My Eyes Adored You", "Grease" and "Can't Take My Eyes off You". I can remember my dad liking Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. I wonder if that's why I was so into the music of this show. It was so intoxicating, that when I returned to my hotel I went to iTunes and purchased the Frankie Valli and the Four Season's Anthology album.

If you ever get to New York, I recommend seeing the Jersey Boys, it is a terrific show. And if it is ever on tour in your town, do check it out. You'll be toe-tapping in no time at all. For those of you who can view YouTube, here is a clip from the London West End cast. It is a mix of songs performed in the show. It think the New York cast is better, but enjoy it anyway:

-Rick Rockhill

Rick's Roadshow: New York OMD (One More Day)

Today is another installment of Rick’s Roadshow from New York, "OMD" (One More Day). First off, the Westminster Dog Show concluded last night with all its pageantry and excitement. The judging was fair and reasonable; although unfortunately the Standard Poodle didn’t win Best In Show. I was happy that the Sussex Spaniel won who is a Senior citizen at 10 years old. He literally came out of retirement to compete this year. This particular trip to New York was very productive from a work perspective- and also thoroughly enjoyable. I was so busy however, that I did not have time to see any old friends or fellow bloggers, which I regret. Since this was primarily a work trip and not personal time off, I can’t complain really. Today's post is going to be a bit of a hodge-podge, so I apologize up front!. Walking back and forth to my hotel I did pass lots of store windows- some of which were cashing in on the Westminster fever with windows like these:

above and below: I think this was Saks 5th Avenue. The giant brown plush toy was called "Chewy Vuitton". It's tough to see all the details, but take my word for it, this was some pretty high-end doggie supplies!

Below: The New York experience is unlike any other city. Regular readers know that I’ve traveled extensively, and lived in New York what seems like a lifetime ago. New York will always be a unique place in my mind. Times Square is just one of those sights to see...it is unlike Vegas or Piccadilly Circus in London. It has a flavor all its own. I took a few photos to share:

above: this was around midnight, and there was a massive crane lifting a high new light onto the side of this building. There were hundreds of onlookers craning their necks to watch. Yep, New York is something else, even at midnight.

above: I also had a chance to take a kitchen tour at a cool restaurant at Lincoln Center. Here I am with some friends after dinner. I guess my reputation as a restaurant critic preceded me...it was a fun way to end the evening.

Believe it or not, Rick's Roadshow continues this week, but from a new city. Today I head down to Orlando, Florida to attend the annual Global Pet trade show. So stick around, there's more fun from Rick's Roadshow all week!

-Rick Rockhill

Rick's Roadshow: New York, Westminster Kennel Club Judging

Welcome to another installment of Rick's Roadshow: New York, from the 133rd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This is one aspect of my job that I truly enjoy. Since I started attending Westminster five years ago, I've learned a great deal about the sport of raising and showing dogs. I've been fortunate to meet and mingle with the top judges, professional handlers and some of the best breeders (who follow responsible practices in this sport). Of course my role in attending is to represent my company and develop business relationships; but I also enjoy being in the company of dogs too! keep in mind that now I have Sheldon I have become a poodle person. Mind you, I'll never get him groomed like the show dog poodles..but they sure are fun to watch. I thought I'd share a few "behind the scenes" photos that most people never see of Westminster:

above: the inner circle of benching, grooming and staging ring areas. The sizes of the benches vary by breed size.

above: during the day, the judging by breed is held to identify the Best in Breed, which will later represent that breed in one of the groups during the televised broadcast.

above: other events, such as the Junior Showmanship competition takes place, for youngsters learning the sport of handling and showing dogs. This competition is more about the form and handling the kids follow in the ring.

Last Minute Preparation before the Breed Competition

above: This black standard poodle has a few finishing touches to his coat before being called into the ring...

above: ...and this white standard poodle gets a quick comb-out before he heads out into the ring.

above: There were a total of 20 standard poodles in the poodle breed competition.

above: this poodle bitch (female canine term) stands at the ready during the judging...

above: the judges carefully inspect eyes, teeth, coat and temperament before eventually selecting the winner of each breed.

The Evening Prime Time Main Event

above: At 8pm Eastern time, the televised Westminster Show began with Hounds, followed by Terriers, Non-Sporting, and then Herding. On Tuesday night will be Sporting, Toy, Working, followed by the Best In Show.

above: behind the scenes in the main ring. Network television cameras and media prepared for the show.

above: I had awesome seats, among distinguished show judges, just behind the the main judging table with the silver cups and awards.

above: It's always fun to see the wide range of dog sizes/types within a particular group.

above: This Basenji makes the rounds with the Herding group judging.

above: within the Non-Sporting group, the Standard Poodle, followed by the Boston Terrier

above: The Standard Poodle bitch wins the Non-Sporting Group ribbon. Her full AKC name is "Champion Randenn Tristar Affirmation", but is known simply as "Yes" but I heard her owners call her "Yessie"

above: "Yes" is clearly excited, and shows her pleasure having been selected as winner of the group. Here is a quick snippet of Yes winning:

above: click the arrow in the lower left corner to watch the snippet. Sheldon and I are hoping she wins the Best In Show on Tuesday! Gosh I just love the excitement of this dog show. Thanks for stopping by today.

-Rick Rockhill