Congratulations to Jennie Hinkle, creator of Unstandard Deviations for being voted by YOU as Commune’s Featured Local of the month! I met up with Jennie to congratulate her on winning and also to get the dirt on what she has going on.

1. How did you come up with the name Unstandard Deviations and what inspires your pieces?

My jewelry is unique and usually the first thing people say about it is, wow I’ve never seen anything like that. So I actually had a really hard time coming up with a name that I felt worked for my jewelry. I made lists, looked at synonyms, asked friends for opinions, etc. I knew I wanted it to be something that was unique, bold, and different. I wanted it be something that made people think. It needed to portray the nonconformity, and the “against the grain” quality that my jewelry carries along with it. I finally came up with “Unstandard Deviations” and the tag line “jewelry that defies the norm”. It stems from the statistical term “standard deviation” and how it relates to bell curves. Once I came up with the name, I knew there was no turning back.

2. Without giving away your secrets, what are your pieces made out of?

Most of my pieces are made from a material called polystyrene, a thermoplastic. This material allows me to make pretty much any image into a piece of jewelry (providing I have the legal right to use the image). I also use glass microscope slides on some pieces to encase collage images. All the chains I use are sterling silver and can be shiny or darkened according to personal preference. I want everyone to have something they feel represents them, so I am all about doing custom work as well as making that perfect piece for each and every person! I am also a silversmith, and at some point will be offering some of those creations on my Etsy store as well.

3. Where can people check out your stuff?

There are several places to check out my stuff. My website is: www.unstandarddeviations.com. On the site, you can find links to my Etsy web store, my Facebook page, my MySpace page, as well as info on any upcoming shows where I am showing my jewelry. Two San Diego locations display and sell my work: “My Authentic Self” (416 University Avenue in Hillcrest) and “Lady Luxe Saloon” (1017 10th Avenue in the downtown area). I am now also in a store in New Mexico called “Ancient Road”. It is pretty exciting to now be in two states!

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

I love Commune for bringing non-judgmental awareness to the community. I also love how Commune supports local artists, designers, bands, and dj’s- I was so super excited to be a part of January’s Commune Wednesday at the Whistlestop. The people that support the events are all open minded, ready to learn and/or educate others, eager to be inspired, there to support the cause and the participants, and ultimately, to feel a part of the community. What could be better than that?

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

The proof is there- there just is no doubt as to the damage, often lethal, of using tobacco. Addiction was planned. Tobacco companies know exactly what they are doing when they target kids, teenagers, women, – and they are now creating demand for tobacco products in Third World areas. Knowing what they know about their product, their actions are unconscionable. Addiction to a drug, and nicotine is certainly a drug, is not good for the world.

Tobacco corporations are takers. Their product takes our air, our health, our money and our focus. Land used to grow tobacco could be used for a much greater purpose. Tobacco takes away our own personal ability to manage our emotions and perceptions; the ability to learn how to relax naturally is a skill lost by smokers who rush to light up when stress arrives.

There is an all too common attitude among smokers that they are only harming themselves by smoking- but it is clear that is just not the case- just being around smoke causes harm. Tobacco companies kill not just their customers- those customers who believe smoking is a “choice”- but all of us around those customers- 1 in 5 deaths is related to tobacco.

Being aware and informed will give us the best shot at standing up against these corporations. As someone that has fought nicotine addiction (sometimes winning, sometimes losing), it is clear to me that the only benefit to my struggles is to the wallet of the tobacco corporations.

For more on Jennie and Unstandard Deviations click  here

Congrats again to Unstandard Deviations and thanks to everyone who voted.

If you would like to be part of Commune Wednesdays and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact Jenny at jointhecommune@gmail.com

February 24^th brought us back to our favorite neighborhood spot in South Park, the Whistlestop. Not even the rain could keep people away from our all-star line-up of entertainment.  DJ Timothy Hines, who you may recognize from Lights On, broke out the vinyl for an eclectic set of tunes that kept our ears pleasantly surprised.  Long Live Logos took the floor for an impressive set featuring their retro inspired sound.  The three brothers and best friend rocked it out as fans bopped and swayed.  It was Danny’s (lead vocals) birthday too so we gave him his very own Commune limited edition artist designed tee.

Our artist for the evening was Robin Eisenberg who delighted our eyes with her detailed drawings and quirky sensibility.  Her anti-industry inspired tee and poster inspired much discussion about how the negative way tobacco companies see their customers and the ironies of their brand positioning.  Lucky for us Robin’s interpretation and sarcastic sense of humor about it resulted in two incredible designs we can’t wait to wear and share.

Out trunk show for the evening featured Fugaz bags aka the chicest clutches and shoulder bags Commune has ever had the delight of showing.  Ana Dolores Duenas and her Mom design and sew the one-of-a-kind pieces made from all recycled and re-used materials.  It’s no wonder that  at 20-35 bucks a pop these purses practically sold out by the end of the evening.  Were you lucky enough to get one?  I know I was.

Stay tuned for our next Commune Wednesday, March 31^st at Bar Pink.

Ashley and I first came across Monty’s art when we stopped by, what used to be MESH in North Park. Monty was Commune’s featured artist back in March ’09 and if you have ever seen one of his pieces, you understand why we were so excited when he agreed to be a part of Commune. Monty’s art is colorful, bright, expressive and unquestionably Monty Montgomery. I met up with Monty to congratulate him and see what he has going on.

1. What inspires your art? Where do you draw inspiration?

From the moment I wake up in the morning to the moment I hit the hay every night, everything I take in from people inspires my art! I could be standing in line at the market or sitting under a tree in the park and no matter what mood surrounds me, I am creating my next painting or design with that which I am handed or hear. I am strongly inspired with messages from peoples conversations, or words that might hit me in the moment on a Billboard, a newsstand, someone having an awesome day or that really bad moment we all hate to go through. I am inspired by raw emotion and all of the paths that it might carry a person down. I am open and looking for that everyday and when I feel a dose of it in a situation I take it, I use it, I create from it!

2. Has your inspiration changed at all from moving from VA to CA?

My Inspiration hasn’t really changed since I made the move to San Diego, but the order in which I take these moments in has! It’s pretty cool in the way that at home in VA the weather changes everyday and that controls where I might be and what I might be hearing, seeing, feeling. If it were cold and rainy I would be picking up different vibes at a coffee shop versus being in sunny San Diego, hiking around peeps outside all pumped and happy because of being here enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Since moving, I have noticed in my work patterns that many more moments are focused in on understanding my thoughts and trying to put them on canvas in a way to drive people in a positive direction while still being honest about the original emotion, no matter what that might be.
3. Where can people find your art?  Any upcoming shows or cool things you are working on?

A few places people can roll in and check things out.  My websites are http://www.montymontgomeryart.com and http://www.cillidesigns.com. The Cilli Original Designs site is where it all started about 11 years ago when I launched the logo and ideas for my Art.  Since being here in San Diego, I launched the new Monty Montgomery Art website which is very simple and to the point with my career as a painter/poet.  I have a show set for Tuesday, April 6th 2010 at Basic in the East Village and peeps can check out 4 paintings hanging in Sportie L.A.(sneaker boutique) on  5th ave. in the Gaslamp. I’m pumped as well about an upcoming exhibit in Philly PA. at “G” Gallery that my boy “G Love & Special Sauce “ has put together for me, the info on that Exhibit will come to life soon and hit the websites!

4. What is your favorite thing about Commune?

Commune is “SOLID”. I was super stoked to be in contact with Jenny almost a year ago now.  I had just moved to the San Diego area and from the beginning of our first conversation I was totally into everything that COMMUNE and the individuals involved within the group were all about. Being able to believe in a goal to bring individuals to a better, healthier way of living and also bring so many cool people together with all different types of ART and energy is awesome.  COMMUNE stands out in so many ways as a very talented, cool group of Artists and individuals that look towards positive ways to bring everyone to a stronger way of living.

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

It’s important to make a stand against these corporations because if we don’t through groups like COMMUNE, no one will! Every single person against this movement of massive corporations helps to bring individuals away from harming their body with Tobacco! Art Exhibits, Concerts, Etc. Getting people involved is what it’s all about. COMMUNE is making it Happen!!!

For More on Monty check out the links below:

Monty Montgomery Art
Website: http://www.montymontgomeryart.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/montymontgomeryart
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/montymontgomery
Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/montyart

Cilli Original Designs
Website: http://www.cillidesigns.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/cillidesigns
E-mail: monty@cillidesigns.com

Congrats again to Monty and thanks to everyone who voted!

If you would like to be part of Commune Wednesdays and stand up for a smokefree scene, contact Jenny at jointhecommune@gmail.com

Career politicians sure have it rough. Press conferences, legislative meetings, big decisions and three-day, fully paid getaways to beachfront resorts – that takes some real dedication.

Republican lawmakers in California (and their aides) grew tired of the dismal Sacramento landscape a couple days ago and decided they needed a change of scenery. Being that the state’s economy isn’t in an ideal position, our politicians chose to sneak away to somewhere prudent, frugal and of course low profile: a luxury beach resort in Santa Barbara.

The three-day event allowed our treasured politicians to spend some much-needed solitude focusing on their tasks at hand. Of course, if they decided that they wanted a little bit of stimulation (you know, to get those legislative juices a-flowin’), they could always take part in the tour of the Ronald Reagan ranch, grab a $300 gift bag, enjoy a gourmet meal or indulge in a cocktail or 12…all of which was paid for by private companies.

Any guesses what type of companies would foot the bill for such a lavish event? You already know.

Among oil companies, casinos and various other slime balls with a political agenda, our good friends in big tobacco shoveled out big bucks to treat people who are already wealthy to a much needed escape from their luxurious, high profile lives. The two largest contributing companies were Chevron and Altria (Philip Morris USA).

When Senate Republican leader Dennis Hollingsworth was questioned by the LA Times about his involvement in the getaway, he declined to answer. Later, his spokesperson, Hector Barajas, informed The Times that “most” attendees actually paid for their own rooms. It was later discovered that these attendees used money from political contributions to pay for their vacay.

Maybe it’s just me but it strikes a very disturbing nerve to find out that this sort of flagrant bribery still works. It’s no secret that tobacco companies rely on lobbying to stay afloat but you’d think that both companies and politicians would have moved on to new methods by now. Instead, our politicians fall for the same tricks that worked 50 years ago. A suite, as many Tom Collins’ as your liver can process, free shell fish and a bag full of tchotchkes somehow STILL justifies allowing deadly products to line shelves.

Dan Merino, also known as Sex Mannequin is no stranger to the neighborhood.   I first met Dan a couple years ago at the Casbah and instantly knew he was a fun person to be around, but it wasn’t until I saw him dance to Maneater on vinyl in his living room, that I knew we would be friends. I was stoked to have Dan be a part of Commune last March and even more so that he won Commune Featured Local.  It was a close race between all three nominees, but Dan pulled ahead in the last couple of days of December and finished the month with 487 votes! I met up with Dan to congratulate him and see what he has going on.

1. So, we have to know. Where did the name Sex Mannequin come from?

At the time I came up with Sex Mannequin I wanted to make a name that reflected my own social commentary on the act of promiscuity and that looked good on an iPod. I had just turned 21 and immersed myself into a hedonistic lifestyle.

2. What’s it like being in a one-man band?

Lonely… Very lonely

3. What inspires your music and do you have any other projects you are currently working on?

Gaux Nu Vaux. So far our direction is a mix of electro/ pop/ disco/ new wave. It picks up where Sex Mannequin leaves off by adding the beauty of having a female lead vocalist paired with my own musical creations.

4. Do you have any upcoming shows people can catch you at?

I am currently writing new Sex Mannequin material to follow up my last 2 e.p.’s. As far as shows I am more focused on my new project to get it out there. But I definitely will continue performing with both.

5. Why do you think it’s important to stand up against tobacco corporations?

In all honesty I find myself pretty disgusted with cigarettes at this point in my life. I’ve tried to justify my own reasons for smoking in the past but cigarettes seem to make my sinuses irritated and my lungs weaker. Plus they make you impotent and Im pretty sure my girlfriend has emphysema.

For more on Sex Mannequinn check out his myspace at http://www.myspace.com/sexmannequin and for some demos and more on Gaux Nu Vaux check out www.myspace.com/gauxnuvaux.

It’s time to take 2009 and say sayonara, good riddance, hasta la vista and f off. I know for many of us 2009 was no walk in the park. Between wars, bar take over’s, Rhianna, Tiger the cheetah, Sarah Palin, and the economy; I think we’ve had enough. Excitement shudders over my body as I think about what 2010 has in store. Whatever it is it has to be better than ’09, in the very least we are one year closer to 2012, predicated to be the end of the world, but I really think it was a just an ok mega- budget flick.

If you’re like me and wait ‘til the last minute for everything including putting the final thoughts into this blog, then you haven’t quite solidified your NYE plans. Here is some local options that will make your New Year’s a night to remember.

• The W Hotel has done it right this year, and brought some local heavy hitters together for a night of ass-shaking fun. Gabe Vega, Adam Salter, and Mikey Beats are just some of the deck geniuses set to spin into the New Year. Tickets start at $50 and go up depending on room packages.

• Ken Club is rockin’ tonight.  You don’t want to miss No Bunny, The Atoms, Jungle Fever and the Kabbs.

• The Super El Camino in Little Italy, which by the way is my new favorite spot, (take care of my girl Jasmine she’ll take excellent care of you) will be featuring one of Commune’s favorite bands Buddy Akai. Along with The Office Twins, the native SD electro-rock band is sure to set your disco night off right with some glittery tunes. Been trying to get the skinny on prices, but I’ve been told between $10 and $20; not bad for the grand opening of South Park’s sister bar.

• Finally Corey Biggs will be spinning at The Fleetwood for what is sure to be a ballpark size party. Biggs is one of our favs out in the scene, and will assuredly bring some unique and sexy beats to your NYE.

From everyone here at Commune, we would like to wish you a safe and fantastic NYE. Remember to take your vitamins and drink lots of water, cause the 1^st of the month isn’t always like Bones’ Thug’s say it is.

Commune returns January 27^th at the Whistlestop. Hope to see you there!

Attention all ladies! You hold the power to free the world of smoking by exercising the power of your va jay-jay’s.

Phase 1: FEMALE ALLIANCE. Hold an international meeting of influential and beautiful women (you’re all beautiful) in which you create an agreement that states that no woman living or dead on earth shall smoke. It is also an accord which when met will trigger, “Phase 1.2″… the immediate and total suspension of sexual relations between women and men.

Phase 2: PREPARATION. Do to the nature of “Phase 3″ women worldwide are suggested to make “personal” preparations for the impending global “Sex Suspension” and possible fallout due to the boycott of all vaginal privileges and sexual favors in general.

Phase 3: OPERATION BLUE-BALLS. Once the relatively easy “Phases 1 and 2″ are complete you may enter into, “Phase 3″ in which all sexual relations are unilaterally suspended completely and totally until the male species, the economy, and daily life as we know it grinds to a quick halt. Crippling Axe body spray sales, the NFL, the sports car industry, and New Jersey.

Phase 4: PEACE. Once the male race has been cut off completely from the vagina supply, you are now free to negotiate with insurmountable leverage that any man that continues smoking shall be cut out of his vagina privileges and that any man who begins to smoke will be forced to attending a taping of Oprah with his mother. This final phase should swiftly eradicate the tobacco industry, cigarette smoking, and bad smelling clothing from the planet earth forever.

Thank you for your time and good luck ladies.

CC

With the holiday spirit ringing in the air, beer-belly Santa’s running rampant through malls and store entrances, rainy freeways, and ridiculous traffic with even more ridiculous drivers; now is the perfect time to stay close home and enjoy some of your favorite local artists.

Despite the despicable economy most everyone still feels the pinch to give back, if you are one of those kind-hearted souls check out our friends Mimi and Red at one of our fav spots El Dorado. Mimi and a sleuth of other local companies will be hosting the Holiday Toy Drive from 9p-12a at the East Village hang out. There’s no cover, just bring in an unwrapped toy of your choice (Super Soakers are a timeless pick) or $10 that will go towards buying new toys. When you buy for someone else, despite how empty your bank account is your heart will be full, especially with that corny metaphor.

All that giving really leaves my soul yearning for some inspiration… of the visual sense. Stop by 3795 30^th for Wish You Were Beer with art by Brian Clinebell and Taylor Johnson, plus you never what local superstars might meander in. This should definitely be a stop on your Saturday night. With monsoon weather, do something different and check this shenanigan out.

Now I’m a big fan of the 4 day weekend, which starts on Thursday, but since we are all recovered from yesterday and so far you’re weekend is packed, Sunday needs to be perfect ending to this fall wonderland. “Coffee, tea, wine, beer, food, and fun” is on the agenda for this December 13^th. Kensington Café is showcasing the Holiday Trunk Show. Trunks open at 4pm, live music from 6-8pm. All the must have swag by your favorite local artists will be in shining presentation. Don’t miss this early night shindig.

Well folks all I can say about the weekend is that it should be wet ‘n wild, and because dating is hard enough in this city, you’ll find me with mistletoe and Pabst hobbing knobbing through my town, hitting up all these fly events. Stay dry friends;)

Officially, last night was our 12th week and last week of the group, but since some members have missed some of their smokerlyzer readings I will continue to meet up with them until the end of the year.  As a whole though, the group is doing amazing.  Christian, Kelly, Anna, Christine, and Corey all blew into the non-smoking zone and Christian went home $40 richer for maintaining smokefree for the last 11 weeks in a row!  Phil and Brian C. were also at the group last night and although they did not blow into the non smoking zone they have reduced their smoking level by more than half of what they started the group with.

Congrats my lovelies! Keep up the good work!

As our group starts to come to an end, it is exciting to see all the wonderful progress members have been making.  Last night’s group was a bit smaller than normal, but it is always great to see the smiling faces of the group members who are able to make it.

Christine and Christian continue to be smokefree and Anna, who started out as a 10 cigarettes a day smoker, has been successfully smokefree for two weeks, which is an amazing accomplishment.  Brian C., who started out the group registering as a heavily addicted smoker with the smokerlyzer, has reduced his smoking rate down into the teens, which is also a dramatic reduction.

It will be interesting to see how member’s nicotine levels also change when their saliva samples are compared from the first group meeting to the last group meeting.

These last 11 weeks have been awesome and I can’t wait to see all the progress members continue to make.

Next Group: WEDNESDAY December 9th @ 8PM at The Bluefoot.