West L.A. / Santa Monica DVX Group

[Kelly Olsen]

If anybody is interested in getting together on the Westside / Santa Monica area I could play host at my place in Santa Monica.

From my experience at the meetings at Aza's (who was very kind to host the two meetings in the valley) there needs to be some kind of agenda - direction - goal or reason to get together. Getting drunk, having dancing girls and then getting arrested was fun but really need to set some kind of general goal to achieve.

I can handle about 8 or 9 people at my place in Santa Monica on a Saturday or Sunday. If interested, state your case and possible ideas. Also does not have to be limited to DVX. This is what I have but anybody with a HVX who is interested is welcome as well.

Just because you have enough money to buy one of those fancy camera's and like to flaunt your wealth and arrive in your Porsche wearing Gucci and a gold Rolex and think your HD P2 world is a better place and that the rest of us SD people are scum.......Sorry.......Got carried away........Really, any HVX person and their two blondes on each arm is welcome. Well, maybe just send the blondes.

Kelly
310-453-4784
KellyROlsen@aol.com

[GageFX]

From my experience at the meetings at Aza's (who was very kind to host the two meetings in the valley) there needs to be some kind of agenda - direction - goal or reason to get together. Getting drunk, having dancing girls and then getting arrested was fun but really need to set some kind of general goal to achieve.



Wha??? I always miss the good stuff.

I'm up, Kelly. For a "purposeful" meeting or even good-old fashioned debauchery - especially if it involves "dancing girls". Or if people would like to get together for some drinks at the Roosevelt or dinner somewhere, then sounds good.

I'm in my office - the Barnes and Noble cafe at the Grove right now - if anyone is in the neighborhood.

Typing up shot lists and getting ready for a crazy post holiday shooting week.

-GageFX

[Robert86]

I'm totally in. Closer to where I live.

We should bring all our gear, throw it in a big cauldron, add some eye of newt, throw in some old boots, stir it up and see what happens. :)

[Ralph Oshiro]

Two words . . . hot chicks!

[Ralph Oshiro]

And maybe some chips and dip!

[Robert86]

We should bring all our gear, throw it in a big cauldron, add some eye of newt, throw in some old boots, stir it up and see what happens.


Two words . . . hot chicks! And maybe some chips and dip!

Ok, so now we're going to throw hot chicks, chips and dip into the cauldron? This is gonna be great!!!

[GageFX]

A couple of us are grabbing at bite at Hooters Santa Monica at 3:30 if anyone else is interested in meeting up. Just wings, hooters and yapping - no "official" DVX business.

Show up. Good times.

(I'll be wearing a blue "Lucky" jeans baseball cap.)

-GageFX

[Kelly Olsen]

Sounds like people have the general spirit of "screw the camera stuff, bring on the booze and women."

Well, this is fine with me, but there should be one person sober enough to use a camera and focus so we can post the results of the meeting and set a new standard for all the other user groups to try to emulate.

[Robert86]

Sounds like people have the general spirit of "screw the camera stuff, bring on the booze and women."


Hey Kelly,

I can live without the booze(seeing that I've never tasted the stuff...ask GageFX, he'll tell you) but the women, they have to stay. I'm always sober so you can count on me to focus and help out.

[GageFX]

He wont be sober after I get through with him.

Missed you all at Hooters. Lost of interesting conversation, but I have to admitt I rarely shut up.

As for a get together where something gets accomplished - I just haven't seen it. Unless it's a preplanned collaboration. I've been a member ofsome online still photography groups where we got together to "shoot" and it ended up a bunch of goofballs standing around pointing cameras at roughly the same things and then showing the shot to others.

I'd rather get together, talk, and get to know people rather than see how they hold their cameras.

-GageFX

[Robert86]

Anyways Kelly, I sent you a text message to find out when the meeting will take place. Any response?

[GageFX]

Good times tonight.... er... last night.

I passed out about 3, woke up at about 3:30 and played poker til 7:00.

Robert and I went to a decent party. Keanu Reeves showed up. Good times.

Considering you dont drink, Robert, I assume you're doing well. I feel like a truck hit me. I dont even remember leaving the party. Did we have fun?

-GageFX

[Robert86]

Considering you dont drink, Robert, I assume you're doing well. I feel like a truck hit me. I dont even remember leaving the party. Did we have fun?

Yeah, I'm feeling fine. Except for some reason, I'm feeling a bit sick. Headache and sore throat, oh well. And OMG did we have fun, yes we had fun.
We also saw that one guy from One-Hour Photo, the father of that kid...aww, I don't know his name, oh well.

[GageFX]

Was it Michael Vartan? Oh man my head hurts.

Too much to do today to be this hung over. Jose pours a mean drink.

What did the rest of you guys do last night?

-GageFX

[Sad Max]

Had about fifteen friends over for dinner/drinking/party.

[GageFX]

Sounds fun. Do you remember any of it? I hate when a chunk of my night goes missing. I never know for sure if I did anything stupid. Well, I'm sure I did, I just never know for sure exactly what it is that I did.

-GageFX

[Robert86]

Well, I'm sure I did, I just never know for sure exactly what it is that I did.

You did "the robot"all night last night. LOL :2vrolijk_08:

[Kelly Olsen]

Anyways Kelly, I sent you a text message to find out when the meeting will take place. Any response?

Robert, no messages came through to me. Can PM me here on DVXUser or my normal e-mail which is KellyROlsen@aol.com.

Have not set anything yet since it sounds like most so far just want to party. If this is the case there is a pub up the street from my place where people can meet. Doesn't look like interest in cameras or lights or showing material, etc.

You even want to get a guy drunk after telling you he doesn't drink. Hardcore party people here.

[Robert86]

Hello Kelly,

I want to meet up with the westla dvxusers. Although it would be kinda pointless just to show up with cameras in hand. A better idea, given to me by someone else, would be to meet up with people and get to know them a bit more. It really helps to start a relationship and then set a goal to shoot things and what not. I agree there's no reason to drink at a meeting, it would just be good to talk and meet people. What do you think?

[Pear Ubu]

If and when you choose to meet to discuss using the DVX and/or the HVX, I'd like to attend.

There was an HVX user meeting in Burbank last month, we saw some footage and learned more about the M2 adapter. Well worthwhile.

I'd very much like to see a regular User Group section on the Forum...I don't think you can beat that kind of networking for learning the camera and the craft.

- Pear

[Robert86]

If and when you choose to meet to discuss using the DVX and/or the HVX, I'd like to attend.

There was an HVX user meeting in Burbank last month, we saw some footage and learned more about the M2 adapter. Well worthwhile.

I'd very much like to see a regular User Group section on the Forum...I don't think you can beat that kind of networking for learning the camera and the craft.

- Pear

See Kelly. We want to attend. Don't lose hope, we would love to come by and have a meeting. I think you should give an approx. date though, otherwise people won't really know if you want the meeting or not.

[GageFX]

You even want to get a guy drunk after telling you he doesn't drink. Hardcore party people here.

Sorry dad. We'll behave.

(It's a joke, Kelly. Does no one on the boards have a sense of humor?)

Robert, please tell dad what I told the bartender when you thought you had alcohol in your drink.

-GageFX

[Robert86]

Robert, please tell dad what I told the bartender when you thought you had alcohol in your drink.

He asked the bartender if there was any alcohol in the drink and to make sure there was none in any of my drinks at all.

Come on Kelly he's just messing about, really. Let's get a date to meet and really get to know some other West LA DVXer's over there. What do you say Kelly? Huh, Huh?

[Pale Rider]

I just moved out to LA a couple of months ago and would be down for something as well. Need to get out and meet other film people in the area. I agree with the idea of just getting to know people rather than bringing cameras. Plus if it doesn't go anywhere, I can just sit and talk to GageFX about firearms :beer:

[Robert86]

I just moved out to LA a couple of months ago and would be down for something as well. Need to get out and meet other film people in the area. I agree with the idea of just getting to know people rather than bringing cameras.

Come on Kelly, let's get something going!

[GageFX]

What area do you live in?

I'm in the Valley (eww...gross). As a transplant, I'm sure you've heard bad things about the Valley but would never consider going there. I split my time between Burbank and Hollywood.

Robert's Santa Monica. (Wessside in da houuuuse). Kinda beach-ish.

Where you at?

-GageFX

[Sad Max]

How about a meet in the Silverlake (Glendale/downtown) area?

Astro's Diner would be a good spot.

Mmm. Pie. Coffee.

[Robert86]

How about a meet in the Silverlake (Glendale/downtown) area?

Title of thread:
West L.A. / Santa Monica DVX Group


LOL

[Sad Max]

*shrug*

Hadn't realized we were incapable of handling a short freeway drive, around here.

Carry on.

[GageFX]

LOL. My favority is how everyone just wants to walk out their front door and meet right there on the corner.

I dont mind driving, and have, but I'd bet a nickel every place people mention is either in their livingroom or just across the street.

Can you see "Astros" from your kitchen window?

Okay... there's a great Brazilian Churrascurria in Glendale. Pricey, but one of the best meals you'll ever have.

I'm more of a Hollywood person. Roosevelt. The Grove. Snow White Cafe on Hollywood. (Not a gay bar.)

I'm open to things, but as long as I'm going somewhere, I want there to be something else for me afterward. Glendale? I suppose I can go to Penney's at the Galleria.

-GageFX

(Pasadena.... getting better...) (I'm very ADHD and will need to be continually entertained. Preferably by the dancing girls I've heard so much about.)

[Sad Max]

No; can't see much of anything out my kitchen window, but my patio and garden. Astro's is a short drive away. Or a long walk, depending.


Snow White Cafe on Hollywood. (Not a gay bar.)

If you say so...

If you want after-meeting entertainment, then Pasadena is a good bet...

[Pale Rider]

I'm Hollywood/Korea Town... Right at Wilshire & Western, but I don't mind driving.

[Pale Rider]

I'm in the Valley (eww...gross). As a transplant, I'm sure you've heard bad things about the Valley but would never consider going there.

I actually interned over at the American Humane Film and Television Unit off of Ventura and some other street (near the Galleria). I still go over there to see movies if The Grove is sold out of what I want to see :thumbsup:

[Kelly Olsen]

Sorry dad. We'll behave.

(It's a joke, Kelly. Does no one on the boards have a sense of humor?)

Huh? Go back and read the first post I started this thread with. My remark that you are talking about was a joke as well. I'll try to be more obvious.

Anyway, back to getting together, there is a pub called Sonny McLeans on Wilshire a few feet east of 26th street.

They have all kinds of beer and food. If people want to get together just to get to know each other (and get to know what their sense of humor is like) this sounds great to me.

[Kelly Olsen]

I'm more of a Hollywood person. Roosevelt. The Grove. Snow White Cafe on Hollywood. (Not a gay bar.)

I'm open to things, but as long as I'm going somewhere, I want there to be something else for me afterward. Glendale? I suppose I can go to Penney's at the Galleria.

-GageFX

(Pasadena.... getting better...) (I'm very ADHD and will need to be continually entertained. Preferably by the dancing girls I've heard so much about.)

Glendale, Pasadena, Silverlake are all very cool and lots to do and if people want to do that then great, but I started this because I saw that there were people in the Westside/Santa Monica area. There are two groups in the Valley already. I suggest those who are interested and don't want to come to the Westside (but everybody is welcome from any place) start a thread that is Glendale or Pasadena or where ever.

I'm interested in doing one that is Santa Monica, West LA, Venice based and meet in this area. Again, anybody can come but let's stick to the area that this thread started with.

As far as picking a day, are there any preferences as far as to day of the week. Is Saturday the right thing for most? Better on a week night?

If it is Saturday, how about a date that would seem very appropriate for the way this is starting off - The 13th of January, in the afternoon, at the pub I mentioned above (Sonny Mcleans)?

Who can and will do the 13th?

Kelly

[Kelly Olsen]

I agree with the idea of just getting to know people rather than bringing cameras. Plus if it doesn't go anywhere, I can just sit and talk to GageFX about firearms :beer:

Now it is turning into a drunken gun club. Even my credentials as a former City Councilman won't keep us out of jail on this one.

(Official Disclaimer: The above was meant to be humorous.)

[Robert86]

What, I thought we were meeting at Kelly's house. :(

[Pale Rider]

I could probably do the 13th... Oh and Kelly, I might be able to help with the jail thing... If nothing falls through, I start at the police academy on Monday :beer:

[Robert86]

So, the 13th where?

[GageFX]

(Official Disclaimer: The above was meant to be humorous.)

Yeah right.


13th might be okay. Have to check. I'm certainly up for whatever if I'm free.

(not whatever, whatever. within reason.)

-GageFX

[Kelly Olsen]

What, I thought we were meeting at Kelly's house. :(

I volunteered my house at first but everybody seemed so interested in getting plastered so I suggested Sonny McLeans on Wilshire and 26th. It actually seems like it might be good idea to meet someplace like that at first. This way if don't have to clean up the barf.

[Kelly Olsen]

I could probably do the 13th... Oh and Kelly, I might be able to help with the jail thing... If nothing falls through, I start at the police academy on Monday

From what this group is sounding like you better bring an extra pair of cuffs.

[Pale Rider]

From what this group is sounding like you better bring an extra pair of cuffs.

Hell, they sound like my kind of people! You have to remember, I just moved from Georgia... we love our fun and beer in the south :beer:... and our guns, we really love our guns!

[Robert86]

Kelly, I'm totally with you. I don't drink. Never have and never will. And I also feel that beer is not always needed to socialize, I knows it's terribly hard for some of you to have fun without beer, but it is possible. I think we should meet up and talk w/out the alcohol that way at least they will remember us and our names afterwards. It just makes sense.

[Pale Rider]

For the record, I'm not saying we have to have beer... just that I like it! I'm totally down for whatever you guys want to do.

[Robert86]

For the record, I'm not saying we have to have beer... just that I like it! I'm totally down for whatever you guys want to do.

Cool. I just think, at least for the first time, that it would be best that we be as coherent as possible. Then the next time, well...I'll leave it up to you guys. :)

When I met up with GageFX for the first time, he wasn't drunk nor did he get drunk. The second time, he got drunk and started doing "the robot" at a party.

Right Gage?
Fun times :)

[Pale Rider]

Agreed. So is the 13th an official date? If not, let's make something official and throw it out there so we can clear our schedules.

[Robert86]

So is the 13th an official date? If not, let's make something official and throw it out there so we can clear our schedules.

Good idea. Kelly?

[GageFX]

I didnt do the F*ing robot.

Grrrrr.

-GageFX

(I hope I didn't do the robot.)

[Robert86]

I didnt do the F*ing robot.

Grrrrr.

-GageFX

(I hope I didn't do the robot.)

Yeah, you don't remember? You were doing "the robot" to Michael Vartan. Then Jean took you out before you could do it to Veronica Mars.

[Pale Rider]

Wow...

[Robert86]

Wow...

Wow is right!

[Kelly Olsen]

I am suggesting Saturday 1/13/07, say 2 pm at the pub which is more like Cheers than a bar. So if you want a beer you can have one, if you want coffee, soft drink, food, water, etc., you can have it.

It is at 2615 Wilshire in Santa Monica (corner of 26th and Wilshire). Here is their link:

http://www.sonnymcleans.com/index.htm

If we have at least 5 who will commit, then I'll be there.

If you walk in and don't like it you can turn around and leave since most of us don't know what the others look like and you can make up some story why you weren't there.

Anybody have a better idea, then speak up, if not the that is the date, time and place. Give me 5 commits and it is on.

[GageFX]

F! I dont even remember seeing Kristen Bell. Was she there?

Cut me off earlier next time.

-GageFX

I'm fine with a bar.... or not. I dont have to drink. But maybe somewhere more friendly for members that are just short of 21.

Count me in if this is the final location, but I know at least one member that would probably like to come but probably cant get in.

[Robert86]

F! I dont even remember seeing Kristen Bell. Was she there?


Yeah, as we were about to leave, Jean told us and you went to look by yourself. Then I saw her before we left.

I still think Kelly's house is a good idea. I don't see why not. Kelly, I posted a comment earlier about how it would be better for us not to drink at for the first time. Everyone seemed ok with it. I think your place would be better suited for the first meet, I can't even get into a bar. Plus your place probably has better parking, I frickin' hate trying to find parking on Wilshier!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Pale Rider]

I'm in for whatever, so add me to the head count.

[Kelly Olsen]

I still think Kelly's house is a good idea. I don't see why not. Kelly, I posted a comment earlier about how it would be better for us not to drink at for the first time. Everyone seemed ok with it. I think your place would be better suited for the first meet, I can't even get into a bar. Plus your place probably has better parking, I frickin' hate trying to find parking on Wilshier!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sonny McLeans is a Restaurant in the afternoon. NO age restriction. They have some parking in the back. Even better, there is a huge parking lot behind the Washington Mutual bank at 2701 Wilshire which is on the corner of Princeton and Wilshire, just a few doors east of Sonny's.

The bank is closed at 1 pm on Saturday and the lot is open to all after that. My street has permit parking so it is harder at my place, plus all this talk about guns and booze makes me feel like I'd like to meet some of these individuals in a public setting before I bring them into my home.

The intent of the group has taken on a slightly different direction than anticipated and I'd like to get it back on track.

I'm not looking for a social club at first. If friendships are built as a side effect, then that is great, but I'm looking for a collaborative group that can share ideas, make suggestions, lend support, etc.

I also chose to have one with people who are close in proximity so that if one of us needed help with a piece of equipment or hold a boom or loan a light, the journey of a cross town ride would not be a factor. But I don't care where you live and if you want to come from Arizona it is fine, just prepare to be a contributor and don't complain about how far away it is for you or want us to meet in your neighborhood once in a while. This is a westside group. Want a group in your part of town, then take the lead and start one:)

I would like to also enjoy the company of others with a common interest, but with a focus. I'm in this to further my skills and knowledge and to make my life advance in the DV world. I have friends I can drink and hang out with and I do this on a regular basis. But they are not into film or tv making.

I want associates who can help me and in return whom I can help in the DV world better my/our craft.

So, if you are mainly into just meeting people to hang with and talk sports, women, politics or anything else, this is not the place or group for you.

I'm certain we will drift off on occasion and go into other things once in a while but I want a group of people who are serious about creating moving images that stimulate people, (and be able to have some fun and enjoyment while doing it), but primarily be focused on creating images.

This is an experiment, it may turn out to be nothing at all. I was in another group, and they were all very nice, but we just kind of sat around and stared at each other. I'm willing to try again, but I know from that experience that you need a focus.

So, if you are interested in working at upping your game (and maybe making a friend or two while doing it), then I welcome you to join in and contribute and see if anything can come of it.

Now, anybody still interested for Saturday 1/13/07, 2 pm at 2515 Wilshire?

[Robert86]

I was in another group, and they were all very nice, but we just kind of sat around and stared at each other.

Exactly! That is what's going to happen if you have a bunch of people come over to meet about camera's and equipment. "So, what kind of camera do you have? I'll show you my equipment if you show me yours" and ect... We're not robots, we have to warm up to people before we get straight to the filmmaking process. Now if we have had a script in hand before all of this and then met up, that might be a different thing. I understand it's about networking, hell that's how we all get to higher places but you can't just ask "what can you do for me, huh?". You know what I mean? Networking is all about making "friends" but the word "friends" comes from a level of comfortability with each other. Again, we're not robots. Let things happen naturally, don't force it.

[Greggl]

we're not robots. Let things happen naturally, don't force it.

Bigtime... I'm not back in LA till the 18th, so I'm gonna miss this one, but man,
lets not hardsell this thing :) I'm more intimidated by a previous posting than
I was in my first industry interview :)

BTW, date is coming up for the Almost Famous 48 hour in Arizona and remotes
are allowed... anyone doing it? I'm getting an LA team together and I won't be
in Key West for this one...

[Robert86]

Almost Famous 48 hour in Arizona

Is that like a contest or something? PM with details if possible, thanks.

[Greggl]

No need to PM... its another 48 hour film challenge. I've done two of em so far
an I'm hooked. Hope to do 4-5 of em in 2007.

http://www.thea3f.net/

[Pale Rider]

I'm still in guys... see ya'll on the 13th at 2:00pm. And Kelly, I'll leave the shotgun at home just for you :engel017:

[Kelly Olsen]

I'm still in guys... see ya'll on the 13th at 2:00pm. And Kelly, I'll leave the shotgun at home just for you :engel017:

OK, we have ONE non gun toting commitment.

About four more would make enough for some diversity (but certainly not limited to any maximum number) just need a minimum to make it interesting.

[Robert86]

You have two. Right here, you've had me all along.

[GageFX]

I'm not looking for a social club at first. If friendships are built as a side effect, then that is great, but I'm looking for a collaborative group that can share ideas, make suggestions, lend support, etc.

In addition to what Robert said, here are my two cents:

This is what you want, and that's great. It's your thing and we all certainly have the option to join in or not, I just think it's fair to give you an opinion on this. Again, for you to take or leave, no hard feelings either way.

I've done the "camera gettogether" with still photography forum people. Basically it was a bunch of camera geeks showing each other obscure features of the camera we all owned. Learned a couple things, but it was highly boring and not something many wanted to repeat. We only met once and it was dumb and we ended up having a "reunion" about 3 years later to see what we all were up to, but since we never developed any relationships, it was equally dumb.

Robert and I hung at Hooters as a spur of the moment thing last week, hung out, I had some beers, we talked alot - alot about film, alot about digital, alot about filmmaking, but mostly about ourselves and got to know each other. He is a cool guy and we are going to collaborate. It was after I got to him as a person that I knew I wanted to work with him.

I dont care how much he knows about my camera or what he can do for me, I want to know who he is and what makes him tick and what his passions are and these are all things I dont learn by geeking out hiding behind my camera while he hides behind his.

To be honest, it sounds like you want to meet a bunch of people that can do something for you. To help you. Just want to meet like minded people. If we can help each other in any way then great. If not, I have a new friend that I can either talk about like minded things or anything else.


I have friends I can drink and hang out with and I do this on a regular basis. But they are not into film or tv making.

That's great. We all need variety in friends. But all of here are into filmmaking and many of us do like to hang out and occasionally drink.

Also, I;m sure Robert will tell you that our get together Wednesday (??... Tuesday??... I cant remember) was nothing like New Years' Eve and there was no drining involved. There is a time for business and a time to get your bearings. I'm not doing business with anyone I dont know unless you pay me well. For a friend I'll bend over backwards.

I'm not suggesting you not have your meeting. I'm just suggesting what you outlined may very well keep you from meeting the exact people you would like to meet. (And I dont mean me by this. I mean any number of people that are reading and being turned off by it.

Just my thoughts. And, regardless or your OCD, you seem decent and I will probably show. I just hope it ends up being more fun than it sounds.

-GageFX

[Ralph Oshiro]

I would like to come, since I'm also on the Westside. But I can't on the 13th--have to work the Golden Globes that weekend. Hope I can make another meet in the Santa Monica/Westside area (love this part of town). Also, people should try to bring hot chicks along so we have something to look at instead of just each other's matte boxes and 35mm adapters and stuff. Another suggestion for a later time would be to meet at a cool Santa Monica sidewalk cafe where there's more eye candy likely to be passing by.

[Ralph Oshiro]

Oh, I guess I should leave this at home?

http://www.24framefilms.com/500-6.jpg

[Robert86]

Also, people should try to bring hot chicks along so we have something to look at instead of just each other's matte boxes and 35mm adapters and stuff. Another suggestion for a later time would be to meet at a cool Santa Monica sidewalk cafe where there's more eye candy likely to be passing by.

Unfortunately Rezfactor, we've already discussed this subject a few pages back. :)

[Ralph Oshiro]

Maybe bring this instead?

http://www.24framefilms.com/L-AIR-08.jpg

[Ralph Oshiro]

Unfortunately Rezfactor, we've already discussed this subject a few pages back. :)No, I know . . . I meant for a future meeting, perhaps.

[Robert86]

Yo Rez, just wondering, which camera is that? Is dat da cinealta yo!

EDIT: Ah nah, da', dat chit looks like a betaSP cam foo'!

[Ralph Oshiro]

It's a Sony DSR450WS. Basically, it's a 2/3"-CCD, 16:9, standard-def, 24P, DVCAM camera.

[Robert86]

It's a Sony DSR450WS. Basically, it's a 2/3"-CCD, 16:9, standard-def, 24P, DVCAM camera.

oh! Sweet!

[Kelly Olsen]

To be honest, it sounds like you want to meet a bunch of people that can do something for you. To help you. GageFX

If this is all that came across then I did a bad job of articulating myself. Yes, to some degree I am looking to be with people who "can help me" but I thought it was clear that it was for everybody to be helped. I tried to make it clear that getting to know people was also important but that there should also be some kind of goal of improving skills not simply to get drunk or party.

If you go back and read the first responces there was a lot of talk about drinking and having a good time. I was honest that I am looking for people who share a common goal and interest and people who can lend a hand holding a boom or lending a light or a tip on a camera setting and that I would do the same.

You seem to make it that I am into this only for myself and I am very sorry that it came across like that.

Please forgive the rest of this because it is going to sound like a pissing contest and very egotistical (and I can't stand it when people do what I am about to do) but I think it will help put your remarks in context of what you think I am looking for.

I have been working in the entertainment field since 1970 (I started very, very young).

In the past year I have worked on 7 shows including co-producing the largest reuion of film makers and crew of the movie "Woodstock" for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. I have served on the Board of Directors of the Producers Guild of America, been a writer, Segment Producer, Researcher, Location Scout, Concert Promoter, Flunky and almost anything else except Fluffer (I even served 8 years in public office an a Governmental official and some consider that porn anyway).

So what, big deal, I know. There are a ton of people in LA who have done 100 times more than me. I'm still a small fish in a very big pond.

But I have no expectation that anybody who would be at these meetings would be in any position to help me with a job or hire me or know anybody who could hire me. My high school track jacket (which I still have and it fits) is older than most of the people who have indicated an interest in being in the group.

It is not that they are not talented, they just have not been around long enough for me to try to hit them up for a job or help in the way you seem to think. And that is not how I work (if it was I would be further along in the biz).

I'm not going to restate for the third time what I was looking for in a group. But I thought it important that I state what I'm not looking for, which you seem to think I am all about.

Now the rest of this is going to sound like I am mad and going to take my ball and go home, and I can't help that, but the truth is I had just logged on to say what is now coming before I read your message. Your message only makes me realize that I was right, before I had the chance to do it.

What I was going to say was that after thinking about this in the shower (water always helps clear the head) it is clear that there is interest in a group, but that there is interest in something different than what I am talkin about (which obviously did not come out right considering your take on what you think I am after).

So I am going to bow out of the planning and agenda setting and let a new leader arise. I suggest you GageFX as the new agender setter and organizer.

I'll monitor this thread and if I can make it to whatever you set up I'll join in with the fun social spirit as well.

I do really appreciate your (and every body else's) feedback and suggestions. It really helped clarify things for me.

Hope all have a wonderfull New Year and that I meet some of you soon. I really mean it:)

[Pale Rider]

Kelly, I think we can all appreciate what you're saying. Hopefully our testosterone induced rantings have not made us out to be something we are not either. Before anybody throws in the towel, I say we go ahead with the aforementioned meeting date and see what happens. just my .02 :beer:

[Pale Rider]

Oh, I guess I should leave this at home?

http://www.24framefilms.com/500-6.jpg

Nice Rezfactor! Here's one of my babies:

http://www.dvxuser6.com/uploaded/6336/1167989315.jpg

:beer:

[Robert86]

Before anybody throws in the towel, I say we go ahead with the aforementioned meeting date and see what happens.

Aye! Do we have a third?

[Kelly Olsen]

Kelly, I think we can all appreciate what you're saying. Hopefully our testosterone induced rantings have not made us out to be something we are not either. Before anybody throws in the towel, I say we go ahead with the aforementioned meeting date and see what happens. just my .02 :beer:

I'm not making any judgements about anybody here, just letting the Democratic process proceed.

Besides, I think you probably wouldn't want me at these meetings. When I was a Politician in Santa Monica I passed a law banning gun dealers from selling weapons out of homes and apartments.

Call me crazy, but having UPS leaving packages of hand guns sitting on the doorstep all day of an apartment or house with a school across the street just seemed like a bad mix.

[Pale Rider]

Besides, I think you probably wouldn't want me at these meetings. When I was a Politician in Santa Monica I passed a law banning gun dealers from selling weapons out of homes and apartments.

Though I'm an avid supporter of gun owner's rights and firearms in general, I would agree with you on that point. That's what we have gun shops and authorized dealers for. No need to do business on the corner of Wilshire and Western. :thumbsup:

Anyway Kelly, I still look forward to meeting you and hope to see you when we meet. Peace.

[Robert86]

Yeah Kelly, I hope you can make it. :)

[GageFX]

IKES! I have more to read in this thread but have to run now.... but NO!!!

Dont elect me anything!

I'm sure you've read my PM by the time you read this post, so it should be cleared up. To those that did not get my PM to you (as it was... to you), I do not think for a second that I have any say in what groups do when they get together. You sound like a fine person as well as everyone else in here. My only intent was to let you know what I read in your post. Nothing more. Just one guy's interpretation of some words in message forum.

I think it's better to get to know people before breaking out equipment and trying to colaborate. Just my thoughts. And it doesnt have to involve alchohol. (But I guarantee after 10 minutes with me you'll be asking for a drink.)

Please continue as planned. Not only do I not intend to step in, I dont want to step in. Just giving my opinion. Nothing more.

And as I mentioned, if I'm not shooting that day I will be there. And if we are shooting that night, I'm dragging you all to the shoot with me.

Deal?

Sorry again for misunderstandings.

-GageFX

[Sad Max]

I'll third.

And, I'll be honest: socializing is fun, meeting new people is great, but my real goal, in the end, is socializing with new people with whom I can also build working relationships.

[Robert86]

And, I'll be honest: socializing is fun, meeting new people is great, but my real goal, in the end, is socializing with new people with whom I can also build working relationships.

Amen brother!

[GageFX]

And, I'll be honest: socializing is fun, meeting new people is great, but my real goal, in the end, is socializing with new people with whom I can also build working relationships.

Indeed.


-GageFX

[GageFX]

Is it still on Saturday? Or have you all changed the location via PM to avoid me?

Dont lie.

-GageFX

[Brandon Rice]

Is this meeting on?

[Robert86]

Is it still on Saturday? Or have you all changed the location via PM to avoid me?

Dont lie.

Everyone shhhhhh! Don't tell him!

[Pear Ubu]

Sonny McLeans at Wilshire and 26th. I'll be there at 2PM Saturday, 1/13.

Maybe I'll even come at 1PM and have a spot of lunch. Anybody want to meet for lunch first?

- Rog/Pear Ubu
(advertising copywriter, neophyte filmmaker, brand-new HVX owner waiting for his rebate P2 card)

[Kelly Olsen]

Sonny McLeans at Wilshire and 26th. I'll be there at 2PM Saturday, 1/13.

Maybe I'll even come at 1PM and have a spot of lunch. Anybody want to meet for lunch first?

- Rog/Pear Ub)

There is no reason to meet earlier to eat (unless you don't wanteat to wait until 2 pm). The place is a restaurant during the day and we are not going to be doing anything at 2 that would stop people from eating or drinking whatever they wanted (but you don't have to because it is also a pub and you can just hang out). Sounds like most want to socialize anyway so food and drink go well with that.

[Kelly Olsen]

Pear/Ubu

I'd be interested in hearing about the LA Creative Club. Looked at the link which is in the bottom of your message. There's something to talk about already.

[Pear Ubu]

Happy to talk about the LACC. It's a great organization.

My problem on Saturday is I've got to leave by 3PM for another meeting, in Lynwood (bummer). But I can meet folks and see who else wants to shoot spec spots, etc.

[Pale Rider]

I can be there on Saturday, but I don't get off of work until 1:00-2:00ish, so I might be a few minutes late... somebody let me know who/what kind of people to look for, and I'll join you guys as soon as possible.

[Kelly Olsen]

...somebody let me know who/what kind of people to look for, and I'll join you guys as soon as possible.

I think it will be self evident. There are certain traits that DVXUser people have that are not easily put into words, but you know one when you see one.

Kind of like that famous quote, "I can't describe it, but I know it when I see it."

[Ralph Oshiro]

Kelly? Are you coming? Just come anyway--you sound like an interesting person with a lot to offer. GageFX, you come too, damnit! Please, everyone, just come! Hopefully, I'll make it there, unless some other crap I have to do gets in the way (working Golden Globes this weekend).

[Ralph Oshiro]

Problem is, I probably won't even wake up until 2:00PM tomorrow. Hope some of you linger a bit longer there . . .

[Kelly Olsen]

Kelly? Are you coming?--you sound like an interesting person with a lot to offer.

You will be dispelled of that belief within moments of meeting me.

[Pale Rider]

Sounds like it's gonna be great guys... as I said, I might be a few minutes late, but I'll be there!

[Sad Max]

Not a bad start.

For next time: more people, with more time. Plus, more of those hot chick-type DVX users I hear so much about. I know you're out there.

[Pale Rider]

I'm with you Karl... but that was def a good start. Let's do it again soon! Maybe the rest of these slackers will show then, and maybe I wont be an hour late :beer:

[Robert86]

Maybe the rest of these slackers will show then, and maybe I wont be an hour late

Sorry! But I was out 2nd AC'ing, pulling focus, for a shoot. "Slacking off" LOL But will try to make it next time. I didn't know I was not going to make it until a week ago.

[Pale Rider]

Heh heh... it's all good man! Hope we'll do it again soon... good times

[Robert86]

Yeah I hope it happens again, lately I've been getting busier and busier though. Did you see GageFX there? May his screen name R.I.P.

[Pale Rider]

No, he didn't make it either (unless he left before I got there ;-) )... we'll have to catch him another time

[Kelly Olsen]

Did you see GageFX there?

In fact, he did leave earlier than others, but GageFX was there for quite a while.