On the subject of Breaking Out of a Dutch Oven

This blog began upon the inspiration of two friends from an improv class I took last spring. The class, Jet City Improv's 201, was a gathering of people from many walks of life. To me, it began as an opportunity to try a new style in improv education. I had taken almost a year of classes leading up to that class, but nothing had really clicked. 

The teacher was a talented young man named Doug. Like my previous teacher, his brain ran on 78 while the rest of the world runs on 33. Through his guidance and ever present kind words and motivation, I began to understand what this world of imagination called improv was all about. 

Meanwhile, I found myself in the middle of a new kind of people. None of them were tied to any work I did. Few were the sports types I usually hang out with. And each one could make me smile with an action or just a few words.

These were my friends... and by the end of the class, they felt like family. 

My "Rehab Blog" entry tells the whole story of how I felt about those moments. However, the story has grown into a new dimension.

After a couple of more sets of classes, my friend Sarah had the idea of forming a group to do improv together. We called it Dutch Oven, a double entendre name inspired by something that she said in a warmup game. We met at the Ram to discuss the idea with fellow classmates Paul and Ilias. We were all so busy, we did not know how it would work out.

Using Facebook, we put a plan into action, forming a group and inviting all the members of the 201 class into the group, and set up our first "playtime." We asked some members of another class who we liked (and caught our eye), to join us.  It was at the cabana of Amanda's complex and it was a fun time. I took the lead in some ways to get us through the class, but it was a group effort.

We met again, this time at Ann's house, the same night as the Jet City auditions. Here, we were joined by a new group of friends. At this rehearsal, those of us who were not auditioning did what we could to help those who were. We even went to the audition and cheered our comrades on.

That was the last time we ever got together to play, which was a shame as it seemed like things were really starting to click. However, life got in the way, as everyone had their own lives to live.

Following a workshop, Sarah and I tried to get the group back together by holding a gathering at a local bar, but by this time, many of the group were on to their own thing. Dutch Oven was to be a casual gathering at best, but not a group. When everyone went their separate ways, Sarah, Paul and I stayed behind and talked.

"We still want to do this, right?" I said to Sarah. We were all in agreement. We wanted to do something, but what? There was a fourth person there. Deb, who had thought that this was just a post class gathering, saw what had happened and added her thoughts. The four of us left the bar that day knowing we were going to do something.

So back to the drawing board we went. First with a new Facebook group to communicate with each other.  Then we went on a search for people who we believed would create wonderful chemistry with the rest of the group. We found one in a classmate who seemed to be that "girl with something special." Another came from an old friend from an old show. One came from the magical family of Spring 201 and another from my 301. And the final piece, someone we saw in a showcase that just rocked our socks and made us laugh with everything he did.

Next, I consulted with a good friend from Jet City Improv to talk over the format I had in mind. I wanted to do a different kind of improv show... one with more risks and interaction with the audience. The inspiring performances of Teatro Zinzanni provided a basis for many ideas. A show within a show where no one would ever be sure who was a part of the show and who was not. When I discussed the idea, my friend thought I might be onto something. So I sent out the show idea to everyone and many came back with a confused reply. They didn't see my vision.

So now I had the show idea, and brought together this group, but I knew that for success, that for one of us to be the "leader" was going to be problematic. I had taken an improv directing class from the man who wrote the book on the subject, but I knew I did not have the experience. But I also knew, from examining my own faults, that I have a tendency to take over a room. I don't know if it's my size, or my booming voice or just my personality. I didn't want to place that on the group, so I went in search of someone who would want to grow with us.

Many groups hire coaches, but I was looking for someone who wanted the opportunity for authorship. I wanted a partner in collaboration. And someone who wanted a show to call theirs as well. So I sent a Facebook message to someone who I had remembered from an old class. I had never shared a stage with her, but I have been mesmerized every time I see her perform. Many of us had given her the nickname "the ringer" as she looked like one of those players hired as a professional to come in and make a rec team be awesome. I asked her if she would consider growing with us. And she said yes!

We began rehearsals with a "table read" so to speak, as I tried to explain in voice what I had written on the page, and that description seemed to click with the cast. This idea of improv in a non traditional performance space seemed to challenge us all to try something new.

Rehearsals became a magical world of unlocked doors. The Ringer knew how to bring out the best of us, by opening our eyes to new perspectives on the approach we knew about improv. Week by week, we were learning new things, and taking copious notes so that we would have a workbook to use to develop ourselves as improvisers.

Now, the challenge was to find the space, and I did in the most unlikely of ways. I was meeting with someone two exchange some information at a tea house in Ballard. I noticed that there was a small stage that actually had a table with chairs on it. I saw the setting that I had imagined when I had come up with idea of a "central relationship" that would drive our show. When I saw this venue was the home of music of all kinds, and stand up comedy, that they might be open to something new.

Sure enough they were. The place is called the Chai House in Ballard, and their talent booker was intrigued by this show within a show, and last week, he booked us for our first show on the second Friday in September... a day with an infamous name... September 11th.

I thought, to myself, is that the best day to start something new... and then I said, if that day can be remembered by a few people for something positive, then it can only be positive.

And so, Breakout was born... and you can follow us on our Facebook fan page as we work up to our premiere. We'll have preview videos and photos as we lead up to the opening night. 

For me, this has been a lesson in persistence. I did not want to give up on a dream, so I just threw all my knowledge into it... from producing to to using Facebook, everything came together. I can't wait to see how it will all turn out.

Yours truly,

Johnny Blogger

On the subject of "Writing to scales."

Hello, scale. You have been nice to me. Last year, you fell faster than the stock market. I liked that. Um, the scale, not the stock market.. that stunk.

Now you are "trying to make an adjustment" and have those numbers go back up. I mean the scale and the stock market this time. For that I am mad at you. (the scale, not the stock market.)

For months, people have been glowing at me. Or is that gushing.

"Oh, you have lost weight."

"Oh, you look so good."

"Oh, Mr. Clooney."

Okay, maybe not that last one, but people have been much nicer and more complimentary.

I have found it easier to bound up the stairs at work (um, when I feel like getting to work.) I have found it easier to get to sleep (now that I take Ambien again.) And the half coke/half diet coke mix at Chipotle has been working like a charm! So much that I now have three of them before I am finished, and that's after I have stopped and had one at the local Circle K to wake me up in the morning.

And I am writing more than ever. At least, that is what I intend to do, but something is always coming up like life or work or going to the gym. Wait, I haven't been to the gym so that's not the reason.

I looked at the calendar and it lies to me to. It says I am old now. It says I am more than half way to 90 and that I could go all Jack Bauer cliffhanger any minute. Damn it!

So, Mr. Scale. I am talking to you. I am tired of you mocking me, and I am going to attempt once again to prove you wrong so you will once again feel so right.

I have a premiere to get ready for... September 11th (lovely day for a premiere, but I don't forget it.) I want to take the stage happy with my looks to make people laugh with me instead of at me.

Will you be my friend again? And by that I mean a real friend, not one of those people who wants to Facebook friend me after hearing I was a slim guy who turned out to be portly.

Okay, I am leaving now. I see a pair of warmups and running shoes in my future. I'll see you later.

Yours truly,
Johnny Blogger

On the subject of "Mother's Day"

I am being an awful husband this year for Mother's Day. I know it. I can't help that my soccer team scheduled their game against my son's former favorite team on Mother's Day. I can't help that one of my classes is scheduled for Mother's Day. I can't help that one of my rehearsals is sched.. um.. wait a minute. I scheduled that one.

I am an awful husband.

Of all the saluting holidays, I should understand the significance of Mother's Day. After all, I was a Mother's Day baby. However, that may explain it, as it seems that important things always seemed to be scheduled on Mother's Day.

Take for example, the day I was born. Yours truly came into this world at 6:05 AM on May the 12th, 46 years ago. On that day, my Dad rushed Mom into the hospital for what was an uneventful delivery of a boy who just happened to be a dividend of the first vacation my parents had alone since their honeymoon. In the interest of full disclosure, my sister was conceived on their honeymoon, 13 years earlier... so you can see where this is going.

Anyway, Dr. Roger O'Donnell saw my Dad after the delivery and told him that Mom would be spending the day resting. That came as great news to my Dad as he was to play for the Columbia Country Club Championship that day. He was leading the tournament.

He went to the club and promptly walked to the first tee and handed out cigars to this championship seeking group, and simply stated "my wife has just given birth to a 10 pound, 2 feet tall baby boy. Would you like to concede the game or play?" They played alright, and my Dad shot a 77 to win the championship.

Upon arriving back at the hospital that afternoon, my Dad walked into the room. Mom was holding me, and Dad was holding a silver goblet, the championship trophy. He looked at her accomplishment and looked at his and asked "So, what have you done today?" and tossed the silver goblet on Mom's bed.

(Note: When my Dad passed away, one of the few things I brought home with me was that trophy as its significance was not lost on me.)

So that is the basis for my Mother's Day celebrations, so you can see why I am a awful husband. Okay, to be clear, that is one of my Mom's favorite stories, so my Dad was not an awful husband. It was that they had a special understanding of who they were as a couple.

Ten years ago this weekend, I was preparing to welcome into the world my second child. There were lots of tears that weekend, and not all of joy. I had just flown back to Seattle after being in South Carolina for my Mom's funeral. My wife could not join me for the event as she was on bed rest, and I did not think it would be a good idea for her to even trying to take the trip.

My son was scheduled to be born on May 13th, but Gale, the wonderful wife that she is, was able to convince her doctor to move the scheduled c-section up one day... so that he would share his birthday with mine. I had no golf tournament to attend that day, so I was in the delivery room with her. Okay... that would have never happened.. the golf tournament, I mean.

About 6 weeks earlier, I had been on the phone with my Mom in what would turn out to be my last ever conversation with her. It was on that phone call that I told her that we had decided to name the baby Drew Spencer Horton, to which she responded, "that's wonderful dear, I have a whole bunch of towels and things with his initials on it."

Drew was named after my Mom, Drucie, and the initials were designed to match hers. We had no idea she would never have the opportunity to meet her grandson.

However, a few weeks ago, the towels were delivered to our house with many other items from my parent's house, along with a portrait of my Mother and a 300 pound solid marble sculpture of her, both of which now reside with great "regalness" in our dining room.

So here we are ten years later, and I am surrounded of memories of Mom, especially the fact that I live Mother's Day every day I look into my son's eyes.

While it is not fair to my bride, maybe it is a little appropriate that I am spending my Mother's Day the way I am, sharing the afternoon with the living spirit of my Mom, then doing my own thing.

Don't worry, I will find a way to make it up to my wife. The karaoke CD I bought her will make her giddy with song, and I am sure a week or so of Honey dos to boot!

Happy Mother's Day.

Yours truly,
Johnny Blogger

On the subject of "Preparing for the Back Nine"

"I'm not over the hill. I'm just on the back nine."
- A pillow that belonged to my Dad that I brought home with me from his house.

In just 6 days, I will no longer be 45 and lost in cyberspace. Yes, the calendar page turns and with it, the sense of being young.

I know it is just a different day, and the world does not change. The perspective, however is beginning to change. On my radio is still the music of a 20 or 30 year old. My sense of humor is more of a teenager than a middle-ager. Life's dreams, goals, and challenges - now, that is a different story.

Last week, I was privileged to be given access to Seattle Golf Club to tape a series of interviews with some golfers of the past from a local university's program. In this role, I was able to talk to people with a wide range of memories from those who won a championship two years before I was born to those who just recently graduated. While all the stories were wonderful, I related more to the stories of the older generation than the younger, and that both surprised and saddened me.

Listening to the stories of the older golfers was like listening to my Dad. The camaraderie, the memories, the love they had for each other, all became very apparent. It was the kind of story I had not heard from a member of that generation since my Dad passed away three years ago.

Walking through the locker room at that club brought another fact into focus. The design of that room is eerily similar to that of the club that my Dad belonged to in Bethesda, Maryland. At "BT", I felt as though I was part of an incredible privileged group of people who had made a difference. At the Seattle Golf Club, I sadly felt like a visitor who had not achieved what I believed I could where I could be amongst the members.

Talking to the members of the championship teams, many doctors or successful business men or golf pros, I was transported back to a time when time on the course was time spent reconnecting with my Dad. A bad day on the course was better than most good days in the office.

The last time I shared a golf course with my dad was one of the greatest experiences of my life. We played in a father/son tournament, and finished just two strokes out of the awards. We came so close, but it didn't seem to matter. The next time I would see him, he would be recovering from heart surgery, unable to even get to a golf course let alone play.

The last time I saw him, we talked old golf stories, and looked at some pictures. We knew that no matter what would happen, we always had that weekend at BT.

Now, I get ready to make the turn and head to the back nine. I haven't set foot on a golf course to play since he died. It seems too painful as if I hit a good shot, that would always be the one I would want to call Dad about.

The trip to Seattle Golf Club brought with it other thoughts. Would I ever live up to the life where I felt I could belong? My life has taken such strange turns lately. My old self would be longing for the "club life" or the "good life" as my Dad always called it.

My current friends, the ones who make me happiest, are not club types, but rather ones that seem more "touchable" and more "reachable."

I don't want to give up the dream of success that allows me perks and privilege, but I never want to lose touch with the friends who have shaped my life.

The conflict seems like a 20 foot putt to force a playoff in a tournament. Making it keeps the dream alive. Missing it doesn't mean the end, but it makes you wonder what if.

Right now, the question of "what if?" seems to be taking the shape of "what could be?" Exciting and scary all at the same time.

What lies on the back nine? Do I play an iron and play it safe or go for it with the "Loco" driver that was my final golf present from my dad? I step up to the tee soon. And frankly, it's a daunting task.

Yours truly,
Johnny Blogger

On the subject of "Turning on the Faucet"

Sometimes I write just to write. Many times, it's to get something off my mind.

Yesterday, in the midst of working, I told my co-worker how absolutely infuriated I was getting about the hype being given the "outbreak" of the swine flu in the media.

There are so many stories worth telling that to see the first 11 minutes of a newscast dedicated to the Swine Flu and how you are going to get it sickened me. Yes, I meant the pun.

So, in the spirit of a previous blog entry, I decided to create the Whine Flu Pandemic Central. I planted all the seeds with links about whining and such. I even took some clipart and gave it the logo treatment. Then I put out the all out effort to recruit people to "Become a Fan"

Line by line, word by word, I used humor to get out my anger at the overreaction of society to something that really does not need that much attention. And oh, by the way, did you happen to notice it's sweeps for television... that lovely time where news operations bring out the heavy lumber to tell you what you need to know so you have to, I mean HAVE TO tune in to that particular news that night.

I would understand it if there were hundreds of deaths instead of dozens of cases of this sickness throughout the country, but these stories seem to be nothing but scare tactics.

Case in point. Five schools in this area have been shut down for a week because of a "suspected case" of swine flu.

Meanwhile, just one block from my office, a doctor who was also suspected of having swine flu, treated many youngsters, not to mention had contact with parents. If this was so serious, wouldn't that entire clinic be shut down and every one of those kids alerted to inform their schools of the situation so that they could shut down, and all the businesses that this woman went to, including the place I probably had lunch, have signs saying there is a danger here?

Now I guess you might say it would be poetic justice if I caught this thing after having this opinion, but why aren't people mad as hell and not going to take this stuff anymore?

Then, yesterday, I saw a story on HBO about schools eliminating Dodgeball or Musical Chairs or any competition where there are definitive winners and losers, as they say it might hurt the morale of the people who could be excluded or, dare I say, lose.

If that were not enough, there is a school that has banned the game of tag because of the possibility of injury. Their solution, shadow tag, where you tag the person by stepping on their shadow. Oh, we aren't finished there. The school has banned all touching. I mean no touching. That means a pat on the back, a high five, a hug. These have been replaced by the "Air Five" and "Air Hugs."

Where in the hell is society going?

Well, I guess there might be one thing the two subjects I have ranted about have in common. If there was a no touching policy at all schools, the chance of spreading Swine Flu may have gone down exponentially.

I am getting off my soap box... turning off the faucet.

My time is up, I thank you for yours.

Yours truly,
Johnny Blogger

On the subject of the 400... yep. I am at it again.

What is a Facebook Friend?

Well, now that the number is 403, I wondered the same thing… so I started answering the question again... and here is what I found.

… a radio host who always says hello when we see each other at a game.
… a crew member who I don’t always remember, but after becoming FB friends want to hire more
… a person who loves her Beatles, and can be very funny at times.
… an awesome singer in Karaoke and someone I wish I lived closer to.
… a former work colleague who married someone else I worked with to make what I thought was the oddest couple, but they are great together.
… a funny woman who I have not met, but have many mutual friends that I hope to meet her someday.
… a talented cameraman who made life a lot easier on a lot of shoots.
… a member of the family who travels the world, one foot at a time.
… a wrestling newsletter writer who is really funny, and I wish I had time to visit with more
… a courageous friend whom I admire, and respect more now than when we dated.
… a fellow who remembers me from working with him on Hockey and now networks with FB
… former game operations person who was one of the nice ones. I still need to return his VHS tape of 2 Unlimited.
… number 401 and a future Karaoke friend who was very nice on our first meeting at Hula Hula.
… she is a funny improviser with a classic accent, who got her feelings hurt once, but remains a frequent contributor to my FB page,
… one of my SMU mates who understands this thing called social media.
… another SMU classmate who I did not know had such a fondness for pro wrestling.
… a staffer at the University I work at that always has a nice thing to say in spite of his always serious personality.
… the head of the original big screen video company… call him the godfather of IDEA.
… former colleague at CNN who was always nice to me and ended up being the boss of one of my better work friends later in life.
… crew member who is willing to play any role he’s needed for.
… another crewmember who loves his high school sports.
… a classmate of my wife’s who is a writing genius and someone I am happy to call friend.
… a fellow improv alum that has a great talent for facial gestures.
… former web guru at my TV station, and now on to national fame.
… voice of the Bears and anything else he can find. Always helpful.
… graphics genius that never questions if I need something… he always provides it for me no matter how busy he is.
… game show wizard who can always make me laugh.
… woman who keeps the Emmy Awards together who I hope to continue a friendship with long after the shine fades on the last statue.
… funniest member of IDEA and a guaranteed life of an IDEA party.
… NASCAR driver who lost his permanent ride, but will no doubt be back in the seat soon.
… king of Key Arena and Comcast Arena video… and someone I hope to be working with a lot more in the coming years.
… talented reporter I knew when he was a young pup, now, one of the big dogs in Rip City.
… she introduced me to my wife, and still helps me with promotion questions even today.
… my closest improv friend, and one I hope to share a breakout dream with in front of a live audience. I really appreciate her unwavering friendship through this past year.
… a classmate at SSS who still makes me laugh with his funny comments.
… veteran anchor and NASCAR fanatic who shares my passion for Washington sports, and keeps my friend Silvi in line.
… one of the rare newspaper people still employed, which speaks for his genuineness and talent.
… improviser who has now become king of all social media… at least what’s worth blogging about – hey I follow brianbrinkman thanks to you.
… a lady married to the above person who has rocked my world with her kindness, and hopefully will be the star of my new commercial!
… the boyfriend of one of my social media friends who is a pretty talented guy himself. Very nice to have made his acquaintence.
… a future broadcasting star, when she realizes that she can take her message to a wider audience. Always happy to pass on the fanmail.
… a Baylor Bear who when I made an April Fool’s joke about deleting all my friends and starting over was the first to volunteer. I hope that meant he still wanted to be friends!
… one of the nice guys back at CNN and still a fun guy to follow on FB.
… queen of broadcast production and someone I was lucky to know through my wife’s radio station.
… inspirational leader of my HS lacrosse team, still inspiring others today.
… the best basketball player I ever had a chance to work with and I am happy he’s finished his eligibility, cause now I can be his FB friend again. Don’t forget me when you hit the big time!
… the bravest lawyer I have ever had… just ask Suge.
… number 400 is a morning personality in Las Vegas who was always great to me as a media friend here in Seattle. Hope he comes back someday.
… SSS alum that I think wanted to add me so he could send me all his applications invites (you know the ones… invite 8 friends, and damn it if I am always one of the 8)
… the divine Miss Bravo who I have the honor of working with in the land of shove.
… afternoon drive personality at my favorite London radio station, and he was nice enough to friend me.
… if you need a voice… especially Tom Brokaw’s, he’s your man. I am looking forward to seeing him at the Karaoke Spectacular on June 7th.
… she makes me happy whenever she sends me just a hello… and she’s a great coach too.
… my homecoming date… and someone I am so happy to still keep in touch with… thanks Facebook!
… he was my first boss in radio… and one that never told me no… which is rare in that business.
… softball buddy who has turned into a good friend, partly because we knew each other casually for a long time.
… worked with him a few times, and wish I could more… one of the funniest actor/producers in Seattle
… she has become one of the experts in Seattle Social Media… she gets it and a lot of people are now following her, literally.
… former fellow producer of sports at a local station… and has found a life after television… well done you!
… his lovely wife who is a colleague at the station I do a show for. Always one for a great inspirational story.
… his double jointed finger distracts me, but he does a really good job as one of the poobas of Jet City.
… television producer and real estate tycoon. I have seen both go south on him, yet he keeps a great attitude.
… the girlfriend of my improv mentor, and a nice woman to boot (talented too!)
… former softball teammate who will forever stay in my heart as a victim of my motivational speaker gimmick in the title game.
… friend from my days in SC.
… person who convinced me to play softball. I may be her only FB friend as she joined just to get in the softball group.
… the woman who keeps the women of Rat City rollin through their bouts, and the only person I have bought a beer for in the last three years.
… one of my closest friends and resident Statler to my Waldorf, especially on my blog.
… she used to be one of my best couple friends and now that the couple is no more, she still is one of my great friends… which can’t be said for the other half of the couple.
… one of the genuine nice guys who I hope finds love again someday.
… he helped me keep my sanity at CNN.
… fraternity brother at SMU.
… head of the creative department at the TV station I work with.
… one of my old improv classmates who I can never get to come out and play!
… one person who is much different than the person I knew all those years ago.
… one of my first FB friends, and to this day, he still hasn’t said a word to me, although I have known him longer than anyone on here… who knows.
… wife of a former colleague who unsuccessfully tried to get her husband to join us here on FB… good luck with that continuing challenge!
… high school buddy.
… I love her, and am not married to her… and nothing more needs to be said.
… a really cool woman who is an amazing help on my Karaoke event, although we have only met once. She understands the Twitter thing too!
… he’s graduated from AI now, so hopefully we can work together.
… the musician in my first musical improv class and a future mom!
… mvp of the crew this year.
… an ad wizard who is destined to work with me and I with her.
… an IDEA guy who used to use me for all those apps.
… she’s so happy and thankful that I will always be happy to help her out. I hope our fundraiser is successful (June 7th at the HUT – Be There!)
… guru of graphics at the TV station… can talk your ear off… but in a good way.
… I asked her to be a part of my improv group, and she shied away… although I still believe she would be great!
… sang at my wedding and I still hear the song.
… hubby to the above singer and amazing person.
… good guy from improv class who is now blogging and becoming a life skills coach. You go!
… I misidentified him at a recent event, and still feel bad about it!
… he will be the number one guy at a station someday with his ability to still tell stories in a world full of soundbites.
… a guy who shares his talents and some nice words from IDEA, and is helpful in getting the FB word out.
… a former sales guy at my wife’s radio station who once was responsible for us all doing the Macarena… no, I mean you doing the Macarena!
… the EP of local programming at my local station. We once developed an idea for a karaoke show that would have been hilarious, but unless an idea has sponsors, it’s a dead idea.
… he’s dropped out of sight. Qu’el dommage.
… info man for the Mariners who still loves his sports.
… he got laid off yesterday, which isn’t really fair as he actually talked sports on a sports talk station… KIRO, hire him quickly!
… gave GONE a new meaning, and I hope he finds a fun place to work soon.
… an inspirational improv teacher who believes in her beliefs in a big way. Just ask her if she’s getting married.
… wonderfully nice guy from BYU who hopefully is having fun in Cougarland.
… talented athlete from SSS who went back to teach at the school later. Guessing he’s a high executive by now.
… one of the board of IDEA and very nice to a newbie like me a couple of years ago.
… you can call him Caesar, you can call him Groucho. I call him awesome in his craft and as a FB friend.
… still hanging in there as a local sports anchor in a business that is losing a lot of local sports.
… saw him at the golf course the other day, which is strange because he’s always near a football field.
… former CNN anchor who still appears on the air while trying to make a living in real estate.
… my lab partner at SMU in broadcast school. I ended up in Seattle. She ended up on Monday Night Football.
… I was at Hula Hula one night singing a rap version of Amy Winehouse and there she was.. haunting me. I thought she could have been Amy, and hopefully she will someday, but without all the problems.
… former Hokie Backstreet Boy, now a Bengal Backstreet Boy.
… independent producer who gets a lot of good gigs.
… he doesn’t know if he’s a Beaver, Husky or Musketeer, or all three at the same time.
… traveling the country as a free spirit and that’s good for her.
… journalist who is so connected, I think the world must go through his computer.
… childhood friend who is now a gospel singer, and apparently pretty good at it too.
… improv classmate who loves to put the dramatic flair into everything.
… okay, I couldn’t come up with anything better than a Larry King version of the 300 note, but I loved your suggestion for having people meet each other. I still want to work with you someday!
… he loves his football and now his soccer too.
… her name when I knew her was Vice, but she was always nice (working on rhyming for my musical improv class… see Doug, I do my homework.) Now if I could just rhyme her real last name.
… classmate at SMU and SAS and a very happy mom now!
… he used to own a company, now he just appreciates work… real sign of today’s times.
… the generation gap is starting to show with my relationship with this co-worker, but we still work well together.
… the future Mrs. Softy, who from her status updates, really wants someone to tell her the truth. Hope you find that!
… last seen on House Hunters… but that was a while ago he says. Happy guy in an unhappy business.
… IDEA counterpart from the U of Hou.
… promotions guru for a local sports team, who still seems to hit the mark.
… we worked together at CNN, and he always needed a little scratch. He called me a goofball. He’s probably right.
… he has worked hard to make my new favorite sports team fan friendly, and he needs to be applauded for that.
… one half of a great radio team that still brings it every day.
… the head of a great station group here in town… she’s had a tough job lately but does it well.
… capable woman. No, really, that what she was and is.
… politically oriented classmate of my wife, and great storyteller.
… we call her baby girl on the crew, and she sure loves her FB apps.
… mom to a classmate of my son. I think my son has a crush on her daughter.
… smartest guy in the school, now probably smartest guy in the room.
… my wife’s buddy, and a really genuine person.
… former HS PR guru, and I didn’t know until recently that he’s also a dee jay!
… old school girl in a new school world, yet she still gets both.
… used to do PR for my network, and was the first to escape to better things.
… recently added friend who is an old HS classmate, cheerleader, and now talented designer.
… buddy of my improv buddy, and fun person to talk to.
… recently moved away from Seattle before I could see her, and I am sad about that.
… resident philosopher of the Sportatorium, now keeps me honest in blogging and on FB.
… shared the moment when Hulk turned heel.
… she’s my Dawg and she’s moving back home to the land of Chick Fil A and Cherrywine, and happiness for her. Good luck, Dawg!
… he starts a new show next week. Pretty good for someone who wanted to work for free just a short time ago.
(What do you mean I am only half way through… 400 is harder than 300… but I go on.)
… good friend of the Mrs. with a quiet yet wild demeanor.
… young lady who could always make me laugh especially when she shows a state of being uncomfortable.
… she keeps showing up at improv places and keeps making people laugh… travels a lot too.. proves she can never be caught up with.
… he is the person who corrals the M’s media, which sadly does not include me anymore.
… #398 – but pretty much a perfect 10. Actress, Model, Classmate, and a very nice person.
… former intern who I rediscovered recently. Happy to see she’s doing well.
(Okay, now Adina… I just figured out what I should do but I am more than halfway, so I will continue, but I now know what I will do for 500, although I hope I never get there.)
… head of the rival improv group… but not a rival person.
… great athlete at my school, and a great guy now.
… we once were close improv friends, but she has caught the acting bug it seems. She’s great at it… so it’s a good thing. I do miss her though.
… my new improv friend who does so much improv, she worries that it’s too much. I just hope that when it comes to making choices of what to still do, she chooses to stay with the group because I love her talents and personality.
… I wish she could come sing Karaoke with me all the time, but alas, she lives in a place I wish I lived. We can keep wishing I guess.
… the love of my life and my wife. She likes this FB thing sometimes. I love her all the time.
… he used to hang around the improv scene all the time, but I haven’t seen him lately.
… former newsman for KSMU and the Daily Campus… who is surviving in life and in the television industry… and he’s blessed to be doing so.
… former floor mate from SMU who came close to going out with me once, although I don’t think she remembers it quite that way.
… okay Jana, maybe nicknames would have worked better… but yours is Heels.
… graduated from school last year with a spirit that I miss, and I think her team misses as well. Still have the picture too!
… classmate from SAS and one of the gang.
… the most talented woman I know, and happy to be getting to know her a little better.
… show director who was very understanding when we went in a different direction and she became busy… still very supportive and I appreciate that.
… another one of the sons of crew members who work on the crew, and I can’t keep him straight with the other one. Their names are too close.
… if ever I need a great pick me up, this person is always there to provide it with a great FB comment. Kind person, kind comments.
… one half of the studio tandem, the nice one.
… beautiful bartender with an even more stunning voice. Always is there with a wonderful smile on Sunday nights when I try out new material.
… my Brit friend turned Kiwi and finally heard from! She’s loving a simpler life. Good on ya!
… one half of the greatest NBA announcer team of all time, and an actor to boot. Always enjoy seeing him when he’s up for Pac-10 games.
… Lucky, and usually happy.
… host of a show on the Seattle Channel who I hope to get to meet and work with sometime soon.
… 72 degrees.
… photog who is surviving this economy, which is better than many.
… very cute girl in HS who is very nice family woman now.
… head of an NBA team and SMU Alum who still remains approachable.
… keeping things going at TAMU.
… A Canadian Superstar in the ring, who loses nothing in the exchange rate.
… she wants to keep the team together and loves every minute of it.
… former classmate, fraternity brother and leader at SMU. Surprised he’s not a congressman.
… funny lady who can rock some amazing characters, just needs some self confidence and she’ll star someday.
… recently left my station and was an amazing sport about it. He should be able to land on his feet soon.
… cheerleader and frat brother and happy go lucky guy.
… he probably still has Confetti in his hair 25 years later.
… great attorney for my friend, and good friend to my wife.
… often wondered what she would have been like if she was in the showcase.
… she was a manager at my campus radio station and still is in the biz all these years later.
… reporter to be, but has to figure out how to break in first.
… improv junkie that likes improv FB friends.
… went to school with him in second grade through high school. Smart cookie.
… one of the Montana people who make such great crew members.
… my niece who is all grown up now.
… fellow improv alum who just wants to see her old classmates make it up on stage. Reminds me a lot of my sister for good reasons.
… I think I will probably seem him on stage someday.
… Me, Hoya. Him, Terp… and he still reminds me.
… positively the most positive person I know… great blogger too.
… misunderstood talk host in Seattle. I hope they appreciate him more in his new home.
… nice guy and improv talent. Wish I could still be involved in his shows. Maybe someday.
… the graphics guru of the UC who shares his talents, which is really cool for a protective biz.
… Cougar first, cameraman second, but great at both.
… former intern at CNN who has some of my furniture.
… queen of the replay machine who is finding out how much fun producing is now!
… hope he’s finding work as he was one of the unkind cuts by a big corporation.
… ahead of the curve for 30 years.
… host of a talkshow that is about to go from radio to TV… I hope they are ready!
… the only Bulgarian I know.
… one of the people I like at a company I am not too wild about.
… the best photographer anywhere. Period.
… he could easily be a great friend if our wives understood how much we have in common and need the friendship.
… dependable photographer.
… we were really close, but it seems like I haven’t seen her in ages.
… that girl that was a rival in high school, but it turns out she’s great.
… I thought he would work with me in a company someday, but he’s got a great biz on his own.
… if you need a smart alec status report… this guy’s for you.
… she keeps on being nice, which is especially nice in this day and age.
… we went out, but I would not call them dates.
… assistant coach on my favorite team to work with, and always supportive guy.
… once a driven career woman, now a happy mom.
… head of the improv company I am blessed to work with.
… morning man at my college radio station, and funny guy.
… T. She wears heel and smells good, and takes both as a compliment in the right way. Refreshing.
… anyone who can be called Goat Boy and like it, is jakers in my book. Always gives me the nicest pub at the bouts and I appreciate it.
… SSS alum who isn’t sure about this FB thing.
… introduced me to my college sweetheart, and I thank her.
… we haven’t met but I feel like I know her. Groucho is the common thread.
… he’s a geek that says he’s a geek but doesn’t act like one.
… photog who is another one of the Coug brigade.
… improviser who has a great talent for characters, and one on whom I should draw some more inspiration.
… development exec who admitted to me once that she worked on a show that was stolen from me, but I am glad she shared the info.
… PC who is never PC. Glad she’s back in my life, even if it’s just in cyberspace.
… underestimated him. Great musician who I hope I can perform with sometime soon.
,,, member of the 201 family, who disappeared shortly after class. Reemerged for a short time, but now back into hiding.
… one of those girls I looked up to in High School, now all grown up like me with a family.
… hysterically funny member of the NASCAR family who does what I do, except with much faster subjects.
… karaoke diva, softball player, momma. Hope we can be good friends.
… standup comic who gave up on improv, but seems to be doing well. Only person I know who untagged himself from nice pictures.
… if there is someone that plays more softball than this woman, I haven’t found her.
… Illinois IDEA Counterpart.
… photographer who made a music video with me in college. Did the same song recently in karaoke and thought about looking him up and there he was.
… recruiting and basketball guru who survived the same storm as I did, but he moved to Texas to recover. Lucky him.
… member of the 401 brigade who was very nice.
… runs the biggest NCAA pool I know of, but still couldn’t get me to participate.
… saw him just yesterday. Think he’s a great businessman, and a nicer guy.
… no one knows more about women’s basketball than this guy.
… Bellingham based sports producer who has similar interests, but doesn’t seem to call me to work with him. You can you know!
… my nephew who lives in Bend, but apparently has a very busy life there so he doesn’t get up here much.
… shady character, but he is supposed to be.
… former Sonics PR guy who still loves the game.
… former boss of my wife’s radio station who has seen the ups and downs and has shared his great wisdom with me for which I am grateful.
… former NW producer who moved to the Midwest, and I think found his stride.
… professor and great friend when I was 15.
… my counterpart at Cal.
… sound engineer in Hollywood and gets to work with some cool people.
… always gave me a rough time about my Jordaches, but happily reconnected and was really sweet in her note.
… his current profile is Brock Lesnar, although he doesn’t know who he is.
… member of the tall club in Atlanta who was an exec with MCI… still looks great.
… sales manager at a local station group and very great to call on for advice or help.
… character name for a improv friend.
… the big man who is part hip hop, part gamer, all awesome.
… where did he go?
… cheerleader turned cheerleader mom… seems to be living life over again with her daughter and loving it.
… afternoon drive DJ on the number one music station in town… we should have done that show back then!
… women’s wrestling promoter and new partner in HD with the 21st century Bob Caudle.
… happily found me on Facebook! One of my groomsmen in my wedding and damn, do I miss writing with him.
… one of my favorite people and director of my improv show… and could not be a nicer or more talented person.
… owner of an innovative production company. We said we will find a way to work together and I hope someday we will.
… saw him recently in town, and glad he’s hoping to keep one of my best friends sane in LA.
… IDEA counterpart still working it.
… call him Sportscenter
… neighbor who looks like Julia Roberts.
… her husband who is nice enough to let me say his wife looks like Julia Roberts.
… he can’t wait for the DTV switch to happen.
… she can’t wait for the DTV switch to happen so he won’t have to worry about it anymore.
… leading lives in the right direction.
… former bartender trying to make it in real estate.
… a great film maker and video producer who took a right turn into a whole other industry.
… I misunderstood him, and he me, but we are trying to work through it.
… he let me “own” his wrestling company.
… former classmate and forward on my JV hoops team.
… producer at FSN, and still pluggin away long after many have gone.
… CEO of a growing web company.
… former assistant SID who is loving the Southern California sun.
… classmate and classy guy.
… number 403 – karaoke diva who is a regular at Hula.
… happy he is part of the breakout team. Can’t wait to get to know him more.
… former talk host who has reappeared on the air. One of the nice guys.
… wife of a former classmate who shared her account with her hubby. Hubby’s not on the account but she kept being my friend.
… he lives for practice but likes the games as well. Keeps Jennifer in line.
… blogger, producer, and needs some sleep. Come to think of it, better hours would allow her to live the life she should.
… Fellow Marylander who keeps the Panthers roaring.
… He sees Stars.
… took 007 to a whole new level in the land of the Seminoles.
300 down… 104 to go!
… keeps IDEA running.
… blogs through the eyes of his infant miracle.
… my physical improv idol.
… friend of my wife who may move closer to us again.
… her hubby who seems to be everyone’s FB friend.
… she is quiet, but when she allows herself to be, can be awesome on stage.
… father of my homecoming date.
… one of my favorite people and I wore the tie he gave me for Christmas at the banquet the other day.
… became friends with him at Denver IDEA… busy guy with lots of kids now.
… news man with a voice I would kill for.
… best fan a team could ever have.
… my 301 teacher who is about to be a dad. Call him the Tweet Daddy!
… number 399… and musical director of the most amazing show you will ever see.
… still in Seattle. Get to NY man!
… survived local TV and now with the big company on the campus.
… headmaster of the School, but an enigma none the less.
… my closest friend in the industry. I just wish he lived closer as we feel like we should be hanging out.
… not a person but a place… one that inspires me greatly.
… former classmate.
… big screen guy before I was in the big screen biz.
… former compadre at Prime… yes, that long ago.
… Arizona’s tech and video wiz who still threatens me with You Tube.
… sales guru at the local sports station.
… most helpful guy when it comes to my HS show… great writer too.
…. Ooh, It’s Gerry Todd.
… ask him about his Freddie Mercury unitard.
… NASCAR fan.
… legendary Elvis Operator, not elvis impersonator.
… one of the funniest women I knew, and happy to have been her pizza date before many a class.
… loves his baseball.
… improv genius and the guy who showed me the starting line to this obsession for which I will always strive for the finish line.
… happy to be reconnected with this wonderful guy. He’s retired and even busier than he was when he was working.
… ESPN west coast wonder, and someone who was always nice to me when we shared shoot locations.
… former CNN Producer and now a professor. I want to teach too!
… still owes me lunch, or me him.
… does this graphic work for you?
… shares name with a Cub although he’s a Cane.
… how can you be friends with a team. Apparently I am.
… friend for only two weeks that has become a friend for a lifetime. Keep on shooting girl!
… improv group that includes two friends.
… the Cat of Fat Cat.
… can tell you more about the Beatles than you ever thought you could know in a way you never knew you needed to know.
… his website may have killed my show… but he still is a nice guy,
… my roller pal who got me into all this, and I am happy she did.
… weather diva for the big 7.
… oooh… we’ll be right back. Hope to see him when he comes to town with the Royals.
… soon to be mommy. Now seen exploiting her baby online.
… had lunch with him the other day. Seems to have an optimistic view of life in transition.
… derby dame who I would love to see again sometime.
… courage personified. Needs to be hired by someone who will appreciate her.
… my youngest FB friend.
… formerly in the NBA and White House. How many people can say that?
… my youngest FB friend’s mom, and dear friend to my wife. Is currently reinventing herself… keep it up!
… her brother in law and coast guard officer… former next door neighbor.
… dee jay on Star and judge of the upcoming Karaoke Contest. Thanks!
… he talks on the radio but you don’t know it. You do but you don’t know it’s him.
… she is trying to make sense of the state of journalism. Good luck with doing that, but you are off to a great start.
… she can organize a successful event better than about anyone. Missed at the Chateau.
… Fannie Tragic who is awesome as a teacher and performer. Needs to teach me more.
… taught me what I needed to know to do my job, thankfully.
… member of the Breakout gang, and I hope she will stay in town instead of going Canuck on us.
… Greek comedy god.
… we trade love letters. Not those kind. The kind where she loves what I do and I love what she does. Call them shove letters.
… just recovered from a heart attack… and we are all blessed that he is still around.
… gym fan and heading to Alaska soon. Good for you!
… rare wife who understands her hubby’s need for improv and karaoke.
… proud mom to Alexis, and future minivan driver.
… traffic queen… Aussie, and most prolific Tweeter I know.
… maybe the most naturally beautiful woman I know, but I don’t think she knows it.
… rival school, good friend. Will we have an interesting work relationship? I sure hope so.
… sports lovin’ hubby of a news producer.
… the other John who I have lost touch with.
… recovering from knee surgery, but seems to be on the path back to fitness and teach others to be fit. Still haven’t changed in all these years. Actually, you’ve gotten better.
… I’m from Chevy Chase, she’s Shovey Chase.
… I hope he gets his smile back. He deserves it and will get to work on the big shoe next year.
… his loving wife who seems to love FB as well.
… Captain Crew-it-all.
… dated a burlesque diva and disappeared. Where are ya?
… actor, sideline reporter. Former colleague at CNN who I had to explain Aussie Rules football to when he had to report on it.
… promotions exec turned board game wizard.
… the voice of VHL, and an infomercial. I had great memories of his work but would like to forget the circumstances.
… now starring in NY or soon will be.
… hypnotic improv genius.
… keeping secrets now when I really need to know. Hopefully, it will be back to normal soon.
… jet setting woman who was, to me, the prettiest girl in high school.
… another victim of the journalism crisis… hope he lands on his feet.
… discovered recently that she did know who I was after I knew who she was for a long time.
… Science has left the building… and I wish she would return.
… take one… take two.
… apparently loving OKC, and a follower of my blog. Happy to see someone happy in that arena.
… Mr. Everything to me… my mentor and teacher… and he probably would be embarrassed that I would say that but I do mean it. Happy to be taking a class from him again.
… Bobby, Bobby, Bobby, Bobby Wilson.
… wrestler who apparently has made it to the big time although I haven’t seen him there yet.
(Breathing hard… hitting the homestretch.)
… high school loving member of the crew who is happy to fill any role.
… glossy 8x10 anchor of the local news who knows how to use FB and Twitter to build viewers.
… point guard on my JV hoops team.
… sales guy who works with me on the big screen.
… awesome woman of nighttime sports talk radio… and the only mom I know that could be one of the guys.
… wonder what she’s doing now… she’s been off the radar.
… probably went through one of the most courageous changes I have ever seen anyone go through in life, and he is blessed to know it and live it.
… future reporter in another market who was always nice to me when she was here.
… The grand high guru of all us IDEA college types.
… former Seattle sports TV anchor and current radio guy who is my only Z friend.

Well there you have it… 403. Don’t expect I will reprise this at 500… but I hope you all know that I am blessed to have all of you as a part of my life. As I said before, I don’t collect FB friends, I recall stories and look forward to the new ones ahead. So to those old and new, take care and be well, and I will see you right here whenever you need me.

Yours truly,
Johnny Blogger

On the subject of "Becoming a Fan"

They are trying to get traffic number up. I get it. But, why is Facebook trying to get people to be fans of the most inane things.

Sleep. Yes I like it.

Seattle. Seems like you have two choices here. 44 thousand are fans of Seattle's government page. As Seth and Amy say "Really?!?!" How is the government pages image that pops up a Sonics logo. "Really!?!?!" 35 thousand are fans of the travel page. I don't have to travel to Seattle.

How about NOT being a fan. I am NOT a fan of Seattle Traffic.

Staying in Bed. See Sleep. Seems this little number was founded on New Year's Day of this year, probably from someone who was out all night on New Year's Eve. This "non-profit's" mission -Rollover, snooze, adjust pillow, repeat.

Where did this idea come from? I can understand showing your undying love for things that you truly like, such as In and Out Burgers. But Los Angeles?

Pages that promote a product make perfect sense. States of being on the other hand... um... do they want you to sleep more? Where are the things that ask you to be a fan of the following? I think I will search some I think should be there...

Being Nice. I would be a fan of being nice. It seems like being nice has a fanbase of a mere 228 people, none of whom have anything to say as the wall and info are totally empty, as I would believe their capacity to actually be nice might be the same. I guess I wasn't being very nice there.

Love. It's what the world needs now, is love sweet love. It's the only thing that there's just to little of. The funny thing is when you type in love, the first thing that appears for me is the "Pass a Drink" application. Nothing says love like sending her a shot!

Good driving. How many bad drivers are there on the road, so I want to support the good ones. I guess I am in rare company. Please meet Mr. Chris Williams from Crewe, United Kingdom. He apparently is the only fan of good driving in the world. Oh, now I see. He's a driving instructor. At least his car is air conditioned. Nothing says good driving like an air conditioned car!

Laughing. If we all laughed more, our world could loosen up from the stressed out place in which we currently reside. Well apparently 1,700,690 people already beat me to this one. Okay, I will become a fan. And instantly, the number is up to 1,770,985. I guess we all laughed at the same time.

Twitter. Oh, I guess I am already a fan, however I have to declare my love in less than 140 characters. There are 45 thousand fans, but no posts. An interesting side note is that the Twitter edited picture that shows up only shows "it" which is appropriate since Twitter is the it application these days.

The 80s. What decade should get more fans than the 80's except that most people on Facebook were barely born then and think of this decade as we did the 50's or 60's. Hey now, I can become a fan of this "other business" with 18,850 people. How is it an "other business" though? Credit to the folks who put this one together because it has some great flashback photos and such.

Blue Shoes. Isn't everyone? Oh wait, that's just me. Actually there is a blue shoes fan club, but it seems to be for a high school team.

Blogging. Oh I guess I can become a fan, but there are only 18 right now.

So, show your love for something and become a fan... and I am waiting to see who sets up the fanpage for "Jon's 45 and Lost in Cyberspace." I might even join that one.

Have a great week. Show some love. Be Nice. Laugh. Be a good driver. Live in the 80's for a moment. Blog a little and compliment someone on their blue shoes. That is if you can find one other person with blue shoes!

Yours truly,
Johnny Blogger