THE B.O.P.

This is a real product.

2010-08-30T01:14:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , A u g u s t 3 0 , 2 0 1 0

A friend of mine who is regularly gifted all kinds of ridiculous "up and coming" products passed this gem along to me some time ago.

Kush. A fine cognac.

An "herbal liqueur," if you will.

Amsterdam.

But produced in Lake Alfred, Florida.

Dell was courageous enough to try first. And it was absolutely awful.

- Nick

Compound X Shwood Party Recap

2010-08-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , A u g u s t 1 2 , 2 0 1 0

Last Saturday Compound had a release party for their
collaboration with Shwood Eyewear. Naturally, the B.O.P. was on the scene. No
party pics this time around, in the B.O.P’s advanced age we’ve grown up. Oh yes
we have (or dudes keep staring into the camera--WTF it's a camera dude).

The colab (which can be found here).

Aside from the collaboration, Compound and Shwood commissioned
some dope local artists to show their take on wooden eye wear.

Jason Graham

Ren Sakuarai (my fav, mostly ‘cause, you know, it’s a great conversation
starter hanging of your neck from a pair of Croakies).

Tyler Griffin

Martin Ontiveros

Zach Johnsen

Blaine Fontana (killer wood burning on the arms)

Eric Singer

Shwood's timeline from conception to present.

Sadly the Kanye stunna shades never dropped…(maybe they’ll
QS’em if they get enough fan mail).

Collaboration: Shwood x Compound

2010-08-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , A u g u s t 5 , 2 0 1 0

Oregon shades whittler Shwood teams up with Compound and presents Shwoods foray into Collaborations and two-toned frames. We certainly expect these to sell quickly and numerous future collaborations to come from this.

Check these out in person at COMPOUND on August 7th at 7pm. There will be a big release party with special designs by local artist.

-Keith

photos via Nick

Summer Rotation!

2010-08-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t 4 , 2 0 1 0

download: 500 DAYS OF WEEZY

Sample song: LISTEN TO THIS

-Keith

Yeesh.

2010-07-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , J u l y 2 3 , 2 0 1 0

do you know Donald Glover?

2010-07-07T14:42:00.001-07:00

If you don't, go to his website and do some research! http://www.iamdonald.com/ He is comic gold with talent that has nowhere to go but up.

His roots lie with Derrick Comedy but he has done writing on 30 Rock, continues to perform with the Upright Citizens Brigade and has an outstanding role on NBC's Community. If that wasn't enough you can catch him doing rap shows as Childish Gambino, recently releasing the Culdesac tape under the same moniker. You can download it for free at his site or here . Look out for all the crazy punchlines and shoutouts to Tina Fey!

Did I mention there was a public outcry to see him become the next Spiderman (this should of fucking happened). Of course that all took place across the blog and twittersphere. Catch his Tweets here @mrdonaldglover

- @pdxkeith

Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.2

Mhak x Zach Johnsen

2010-06-16T21:28:00.001-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u n e 1 6 , 2 0 1 0

Currently up at Doug Fir/ Jupiter Hotel.

East Burnside.

- Nick

Test. Of next level posting.

2010-06-16T12:21:00.001-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u n e 1 6 , 2 0 1 0

Maybe posting from phones will keep this place updated?

(Note: Highly unlikely.)

Here's a shot from last week. Of the best shoes I saw in New York. (It's a test, so don't expect anything exclusive.)

- Nick

NY All Week.

2010-06-09T21:47:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u n e 9 , 2 0 1 0

- Nick

Shwood Visit.

2010-05-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , M a y 1 2 , 2 0 1 0

Yesterday, Ira and I took a visit out to the Shwood offices and workshop to catch up with Portland's own emerging eyewear company.

You may have seen pieces from their handmade wooden eyewear collection in stores like Commonwealth, Union, and of course, Compound, as the brand is just beginning to take off.

We couldn't photograph too much during our tour of the workshop, as there's definitely a skill and process to protect, but we were able to snap a look at this awesome fish piece. Shcales, an 11-foot salmon, is made mostly of recycled eyewear materials. Rather than toss aside excess pieces from production, there's all kinds of recycled art and sculptures around the offices.

Stay tuned...

- Nick

Sunny San Diego.

2010-05-10T23:03:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , M a y 1 1 , 2 0 1 0

Last weekend, Zac and I spent a few days down in sunny San Diego.

The best city in the country.

While we're normally in town to catch up with Pony, there's also some added fun in store since my brother is a scholar at SDSU and we can crash at his place. Pony's global headquarters also are conveniently located in the heart of the Gaslamp District. Pretty convenient.

We spent all day Friday checking out the upcoming line with a tour courtesy of Captain Colin, and even saw some promo highlights from awhile ago. SEXY.

Before our flight out on Saturday, Colin set us up for a decently fun morning.

Unreal machines.

My brother and our friend Bill took this one out.

And Zac and I got to give this Maserati a run.

There's really not a more humbling experience than to spend some time around some truly awesome performance machines that are in a whole 'nother stratosphere of reality.

When you consider that 80% of the people that purchase there simply write a single check....I'll just keep dreaming.

- Nick

Fortitude.

2010-05-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , M a y 1 0 , 2 0 1 0

Here's a look at a new model from adidas Originals: the Fortitude Mid.

Available at adi OG accounts this month, it's a nice new direction for the category. I could've done without the silver badging along the ankle -- there's already four hits of branding on the upper -- but nonetheless it's a sweet new silhouette that's damn comfy.

- Nick

Vanity Win.

2010-05-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , M a y 6 , 2 0 1 0

R.I.P. Guru

2010-04-20T13:02:00.000-07:00

S a t u r d a y , A p r i l 2 0 , 2 0 1 0

I self lord and master shall bring disaster to evil factors
demonic chapters, shall be captured by kings
Through the storms of days after
unto the earth from the sun through triple darkness to blast ya
with a force that cant be compared
to any fire power, for its mind power shared
the brainwave causes vessels to circulate
like constellations reflect at night off the lake
word to the father, and mother earth
seeking everlasting life through this hell for what its worth
look listen and observe
and watch another c-cypher pullin my peeps to the curb
heed the words, its like ghetto style proverbs
the righteous man sacrifice to get what they deserve
cannot afford to be confined to a cell
brainwaves swell, turning a desert to a well
experience the best teacher, thoughts will spray
like streetsweepers little daddy street preacher
illustrious feature, narrator you select
accompanied by Deck plus the DJ you respect
the seven and a half combine, over the frontline
the ten percenters promotin slander in the airtime
bear in mind jewels be the tools of the trade
sharp blades heavenly praise and dues are paid

Above the crowds, above the clouds where the sounds are original
infinite skills create miracles
warrior spiritual -- Above the clouds
raining down
Holdin it down

- Above The Clouds & The BOP

The Inquisitive Zach Randolph

2010-04-14T00:28:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , A p r i l 1 3 , 2 0 1 0

The day you've all been waiting for.

THE B.O.P. proudly presents:

The Inquisitive Zach Randolph: http://memegenerator.net/The-Inquisitive-Zach-Randolph

Feel free to mock your own up and submit them in the Comments.

Best one wins a free SC subscription.

[4/5 above posters courtesy Ira]

- Nick

Go Butler.

2010-04-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , A p r i l 4 , 2 0 1 0

Duke sucks.

Go Ducks.

2010-03-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , M a r c h 2 4 , 2 0 1 0

- Nick

Dem Is Fire never gets old.....

2010-03-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , M a r c h 2 1 , 2 0 1 0

Be sure to catch up on all of the latest Dem Is Fire sightings by checking out the tab at the top of the page.

Here's the latest entry....

Owner of the Adam Bomb/ Jordan III Tattoo Reflects!!

2010-03-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , M a r c h 1 5 , 2 0 1 0

Ah yes, the reason we all still follow streetwear: To watch as idiot kids dress like clowns and make amazingly terrible life choices.

Today's lesson is brought to you by: The kid that got the Adam-Bomb-wearing-Jordan-IIIs-on-top-of-SB-boxes tattoo.

Now a year later, the owner steps up and admits that...perhaps...yeah...it wasn't executed as he envisioned.

We'll let him [aka "ride2diedagreat"] explain....

(Gold lines in bold for your convenience.)

"MAN YA'LL STILL GOING IN ON MY HUNDREDS TAT!! LOL!!

Yea that was my first tat & I thought it was super dope & unique. I mean no one else I know have a hundreds bomb with Jordan III's on them.

But I did get messed up & ripped off by the artist. It was my first tat & I didnt know much about lines and shading and all that. She charged me a grip too, $480!! I thought I was paying for the worth, since everyone saying don't be afraid to pay, because nice tats aren't cheap, but did I get screwed over!! HAHA!!

I'm still trying to figure a way to probably clean that tat up somehow or get a nice cover up, but with it being so black, cover up seems almost impossible. Its looking horrible now too, the ink is fading and there are so many dark & light patches all through the black ink. The III's kinda started to somehow warped. Any advice? And I see exactly what everyone was saying about the boxes and the lines being so uneven and out of shape! It pissed me off, and when I went back to the artist & demanded a touch up, she tells me its because I been in the sun & it messed up my tat! The sun has nothing to do with your CROOKED lines woman!! I was heated. But since then, I got a couple more tats by a way better artist. I need to get my hands on a camera and take some pics when I finish. This is the guy thats doing my tats now, great work! www.myspace.com/angeltat2

I don't regret my hundreds tat, well not the idea atleast, I wish it was executed to perfection like I imagined it, but it didnt. haha"

A Classic:

- Nick

Thanks.

2010-03-11T22:23:00.000-08:00

T h u r s d a y , M a r c h 1 1 , 2 0 1 0

Be good Chuck.

- Nick

Sam Adams!

2010-03-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

T h u r s d a y , M a r c h 4 , 2 0 1 0

Been close to years probably since I was last heard from or mentioned here...doubt anyone is looking very often anymore but I finally had something to post!

What I have for you is a new artist rising in the music scene from Boston. His name is Sam Adams. Hailing from the bean, he's putting his name on the map with his new EP Boston's Boy. I'm not going to sit and write some review -- this EP is heat. A new kind of sound, great lyrics, great to listen all the way through. It released today and immediately went to #1 on Hip-Hop albums on iTunes. And its only $7.92!!! So go buy its!

- Dane

HELL YES -- Beauty Bar in Portland

2010-03-02T18:19:00.000-08:00

T u e s d a y , M a r c h 2 , 2 0 1 0

For the past two years, Ira and I have taken a liking to a spot called Beauty Bar.

(YES -- THAT SOUNDS LIKE THE MOST SUSPECT PHRASE OF ALL TIME.)

With Bars in Vegas and SF that are absolutely awesome, we always figured that Portland would be an ideal destination to open up in next.

Considering every experience there has been filled with hipsters, PBR, skinny jeans and awkward dancing....Beauty Bar finally figured it out...and this Saturday they'll be opening the doors to a 2,400 sq ft PDX spot off SW 1st Street.

- Nick

Boom.

2010-02-26T03:31:00.000-08:00

F r i d a y , F e b r u a r y 2 6 , 2 0 1 0

This vinyl kills.

- Nick

Recent Releases

2010-02-18T09:29:00.000-08:00

T h u r s d a y , F e b r u a r y 1 8 , 2 0 1 0

The other day a good friend of mine said "You still buy cds?" when I showed him my newest pick-ups. I wanted to reply with an emphatic YES, but that isn't the case much anymore. However, this past Tuesday saw the release of the Keith (hopefully highly) anticipated Freeway & Jake One album "The Stimulus Package" and a local PDX friends (Tope) newest concoction "Soul Music." I hadn't purchased a cd in almost 6 months I'd say, but without hesitation I hurried my money across the counter to get both of these in my possession.

It has come down to this, on the rare occasion I do buy cds, it's to support a local artist or something that has been cared for and thought has truly been injected into the process to create it. I am extremely happy with both cds and think you should consider picking them up too. The packaging is too nice on the Freeway & Jake One cd to not have two copies. I got a little giddy and opened mine up before taking a picture of it in plastic. It comes with a "blackcard" that gets you a free download of the Jake One instrumentals. Tope's cd is great and is truly some nice underground work. You'll find he produces a number of his own tracks as well! Links to where you can cop the cds are below.

http://www.fifthelementonline.com/

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/Tope

Look What Showed Up!

2010-02-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

F r i d a y , F e b r u a r y 0 5 , 2 0 1 0

ALL GONE 2007 & 2009

My initial reaction to the texts is that there was much more TLC put into the earlier edition during the layout phase. AG 2009 feels a bit more thrown together. As if at this point LaMJC can do as they please and people will still purchase. I did. Suffice to say, both editions are crafted amazingly with thick paper and bounded by elegantly rugged hardcovers. And the reason we buy it, the content, well, as expected that is on point. Here's a couple shots I took. Both books feature around 250 pages of pure indulgent substance.

-Ketih

Tonight: The Woodlands Grand Opening

2010-02-04T08:59:00.000-08:00

T h u r s d a y , F e b r u a r y 4 , 2 0 0 9

The fellas at Hecklewood are getting their grown man on, and re-branding their store as The Woodlands, where they'll be carrying a collection of supplies, textiles and of course their selectively chosen garments and leather goods.

Grand Opening tonight at 7.

- Nick

He Still Got It.

2010-01-26T00:53:00.000-08:00

M o n d a y , J a n u a r y 2 5 , 2 0 0 9

Now:

Then:

- Nick

Where Amazing Autographs Happen....

2010-01-05T19:44:00.001-08:00

T u e s d a y , J a n u a r y 5 , 2 0 0 9

I'm gonna make a post. What the hell.

I bought a few books today. (And still have 700 pages to go on The Book Of Basketball...)

One of those books was Personal Foul, by 70+% accurate bettor/ NBA Ref Tim Donaghy.

Stumbled upon an autographed copy currently on eBay....

Moral of the story: Tim's auto is SWEET.

This brought me to a great tangential topic of the day:

Awesome Autographs.

For example, Al Thornton of the Clippers:

And Maurice Ager, who's stay in the league was about as long as his signature:

And then there's Andres Nocioni. Neither his first or last name start with an 'S.'

And then there's non-basketball sports.

With what I like to call "The Long Division."

Vernand Morency FTW.

- Nick

Happy Birthday Keith!!

2009-12-13T18:56:00.000-08:00

K e i t h 's  F u c k i n'  B i r t h d a y , 2 0 0 9

The crew celebrated last night at Tom's, everyone's favorite local spot.

As expected, karaoke was in store.....

- THE B.O.P.

Friday Night!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-11T20:11:00.000-08:00

F r i d a y , D e c e m b e r 1 1 , 2 0 0 9

First I'm going here.....

then I'll be here.....

Keith

Make It Happen.

2009-11-28T00:38:00.000-08:00

S a t u r d a y , N o v e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 0 9

"Sixers appear ready to bring back Iverson....."

I Was On a Boat.

2009-11-11T21:41:00.000-08:00

W e d n e s d a y , N o v e m b e r 1 1 , 2 0 0 9

THE SAME BOAT.

- Nick

Some May Know: Keith Moved

2009-11-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

T u e s d a y , N o v e m b e r 1 0 , 2 0 0 9

Some of you may know I moved out of the sneaker residence and into a state of solitude where I focus on studies and look towards a fuzzy future. Out of my rebellion comes education and a run-down townhouse home to a number of characters and a family of raccoons. Below I've provided a montage of pictures depicting my new stomping grounds.

On a side note----Like streetwear brands, Blogs continue to disappear at a rapid rate and it is my hope that this doesn't happen to ours. What do you say B.O.P. Members? What do you say to a resurgence? It wasn't long ago that we declared 2009 as ours!

-Keith

Daily Surroundings : D.O.F.

2009-10-16T02:13:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , O c t o b e r 1 5 , 2 0 0 9

The Value of the NBA Preseason.....

2009-10-13T17:02:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , O c t o b e r 1 3 , 2 0 0 9

Q: Rumor has it you’re a great chef. Can you talk about some of your specialties?
Adam Morrison: Toast.

Q: Right. What’s your plan of attack when, uh, cooking (?) a piece of bread?
Adam Morrison: I usually stay between four and five on the knob you adjust for temperature. If I’m feeling really crafty, I’ll go six, but four and five is where I like. I go for a lighter toast. I prefer peanut butter as the main topping, but you have to add butter on there for the extra cholesterol. You know, butter the toast to get it nice and soft, then add the peanut butter on top to give it a nice texture. It's unhealthy, but that's why it tastes so good.

- Nick

The Worst Of The Best

2009-10-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

S a t u r d a y , O c t o b e r 1 0 , 2 0 0 9

Knowing that free PBR can only engage and enrage an audience so much (they've failed miserably on at least eleven Thursdays during the past year...), the gang at Hecklewood decided to add a new wrinkle to the mix at the 1 Year Anniversary bash on Thursday....

A CASCADIAN THEMED PHOTOBOOTH!!!!!

The fun never ended!!!

(That is...until *this* happened...)

[Special thanks to Matt O'Brien for dealing with all of the idiots like us who thought they were coming up with hilarious and witty poses on the spot. Check the full album HERE...]

- Nick

Holy Shit -- They Did It!!!

2009-10-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , O c t o b e r 7 , 2 0 0 9

Someway, somehow, Hecklewood has made it a full year amongst their suspect OT/CT surroundings. Around the corner from countless shady bums. Next door to a police station.

The perfect retail location indeed.

But, they made it. [Sam claims 4,366 free beers, 488 new friends, 44 shirt graphics, 37 drunk hobos, 22 parking tickets and 18 exhibition parties were involved along the way.]

So they're throwing a 1 Year Anniversary Party.

This Thursday.

7-10.

Be there.

Here's what it looked like before they wrecked the place.

Shitty older blog post

(Notice that Sam character acting like he's busy and/or on the phone in every pic)

- Nick

The Most Extensive Sam Cassell Collection Ever

2009-10-06T13:44:00.000-07:00

lT u e s d a y , O c t o b e r 6 , 2 0 0 9

Congratulations Cam.

- Nick

[Lost my camera & fisheye lens....it's iPhone pics from here on out!]

First Thursday October : 3 Pins On A Map

2009-10-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , O c t o b e r 1 , 2 0 0 9

At Compound tonight and for the rest of the month, the collective works of Canadian Krista Huot, American Jeni Yang and Japanese artist Kana Ohtsuki will be on display. Shindig kicks off at 7PM at the familiar 5th Street gallery.

On the fence about attending?

FREE BEER WILL BE PROVIDED.

- Nick

In The Trenches.....

2009-09-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 1 , 2 0 0 9

Zac's been at my place for roughly 35 of the last 42 days or something.

We're working away on a 200-page issue.

(Fuck.)

He's been crashing in my basement the whole time and carved out a nice corner for himself.

Haven't quite cleaned up from the last party. Sorry. Oh, and added a few boxes since.

Finally got my corner set up with a new table and chairs too.

He'll be back on Thursday.

- Nick

DEVON GTX

2009-09-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , S e p t e m b e r 1 1 , 2 0 0 9

There is a new supercar on the scene, and get this: IT'S AMERICAN! I am not a big fan of American cars, other than the Dodge Viper, which I really like (first generation body style please), but this I like. I am sure it has to do with the unique two-tone paint job, unique paneling, and very clean lines and edges. It is very smooooooth.

It actually performs amazingly well also. It packs a nice V-10 under that finely sculpted hood, and it just set a new Leguna Seca lap record, for cars that aren't actual race cars, by posting a 1.35.075. That beats out the Nissan GTR, Porsche 997 GT3, Corvette ZR1, and the Dodge Viper SRT-10 ACR.

On sale for $500,000 next year, so start saving.

Their website: http://www.devonmotorworks.com/supercars.php
-jt

FAIL.

2009-09-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , S e p t e m b e r 6 , 2 0 0 9

I spent a bit of my morning looking for some new tees.

(Can't wear Rodman tees around the clock apparently.)

It's been 8 months since I did a 'View All' on Karmaloop.

Likely to be another 8. At least.

Closed my Safari tabs for the day with a grand total of zero purchases.

Thanks to tees like this.

- Nick

Magic Fall 09

2009-09-05T20:54:00.000-07:00

S a t u r d a y , S e p t e m b e r 0 5 , 2 0 0 9

For those that don't know, Magic is the twice yearly trade show for streetwear and a ton of clothing in general. Basically if you work for a shop, it's the place to check out all your store's lines at once. It also doubles as a train wreck for anyone who thinks they have swag.

New base camp this year (props to the AK guys), luckily it was directly across the street from the nearest Ross.

Definitely had to hook the purple name tag up with the purple shoes. It was asking for it.

Yeah, two pics. THE HOOK-UP WAS THAT GOOD.

The calm before the storm. I was there obscenely early and had just about all my appointments on Tuesday (over nine hours at three different trade shows). That's not what's up.

Limited edition T-shirt and matching laces: targeting the consumer who can't stand to have only one garment with music-note-dollar-signs on it.

Two meetings in for me, this booth is completely empty and has strands of scotch tape around it. Somebody's intern wasn't about to have a good day.

Pat Liberty showing the Akomplice line for probably the tenth time that day.

The man, the myth, the legend dropped by the Akomplice booth minutes before I did. Good trip but Eric Glennie woulda made it that much better...

After Magic I hit Project (to check out the most ridiculous collection of hot chicks assembled in one place) and Capsule (to check out streetwear). Capsule was WAY bigger than last time and definitely appears to be the future destination of streetwear.

Hittin the airport, I saw my dude shutting shit down.

--Ira

Puma, Puma, Puma. . .

2009-08-24T11:31:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , A u g u s t 2 4 , 2 0 0 9

What are you guys thinking!? Where was I when it became cool to wear kids' Halloween costumes as your standard piece of clothing? This is ridiculous, and I really can't justify why it exists at all, and it costs $124. Yeah, right. If you are trying to impress the Geico Gecko, this may be your hoody, if not, stay away, far, far away.

The Puma Bode Lizard Hoody

From pickyourshoes

-jt

Head Slowly Shaking as I Look Down in Disbelief

2009-08-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , A u g u s t 2 1 , 2 0 0 9

Are you kidding me? This is real? Remember when moving up the ranks in your local 'hood meant buying the latest iced out spinners? Not anymore, a new item looks to take the place of the nearly deceased spinners on the autos of young drivers everywhere. Will it succeed, only time will tell, but my money is on "Hell No!"

Here it is, the LED light up car emblem for your hood.The light is powered by the wind generated by driving. The little fan spins in the wind charging up the light.

That's right kids, for only 5 bucks, you can have a Mercedes logo blinking on the hood of your Honda or Toyota, or worse, on your Mercedes.

Once again, thanks to dvice

-jt

STREETBALLERS: The Movie

2009-08-14T05:14:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , A u g u s t 1 4 , 2 0 0 9

First I saw the Poster.........

Then I read "Streetballers is an Irish-Urban drama exploring the lives of two junior-college basketball players...." Needless to say I was forced to watch the trailer after that!

-Keith

Tomorrow : LIVE & DIRECT

2009-08-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , A u g u s t 1 3 , 2 0 0 9

Live & Direct.

@ Rotture.

Friday.

9PM.

See you there.

-Nick

Swimmin' With the Fishes

2009-08-11T16:13:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , A u g u s t 11 , 2 0 0 9

Here is an amazing video of the world's second largest aquarium, the Kuroshio Sea. It is big enough to house whale sharks and manta rays, and if you don't know, those are some big ass fish! The music is very calm and relaxing, so sit back, enjoy a nice cup of warm tea, and let your worries melt away thanks to the B.O.P.

The video was shot at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan.
video credit to Jon Rawlinson.

-jt

Nike Global Challenge...

2009-08-10T23:19:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , A u g u s t 9 , 2 0 0 9

- Nick

Don't Criticize . . . Hyperize

2009-08-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , A u g u s t 7 , 2 0 0 9

Usually NBA stars plus Rapping is a great recipe for disaster . . . well maybe it's just cause I've always been a huge DJ Quik fan but I really enjoyed the latest Nike Basketball advertising:

Mo Williams (Fog Raw), Kevin Durant (Velvet Hoop), Andre Iguodala (Chief Blocka), and Rashard Lewis (Ice-O)

All I was thinking was where's Delonte?

-Cam

First Thursday August : Survival Drive

2009-08-07T03:10:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , A u g u s t 7 , 2 0 0 9

Another month means another 1st Thursday out here in Portland, Oregon. Our two favorite clothing store/art gallery/sneaker boutiques, Hecklewood & Compound, both located just off Couch Street in the Pearl District, normally feature some awesome art shows spanning a vast array of categories. (Sometimes the shows suck too.) Unfortunately, Hecklewood was forced to take the month off after a last-minute cancellation from UNKL. Whoops.

Down at Compound, as you of course read below, the theme of the month is “Survival Drive,” depicting the works created by two artists after their 131 day, 34,033km journey throughout Japan.

World’s worst doorman…

GREAT show. The details, abstract nature and opposite yet somehow cohesive mediums of paint and photography were very impressive. Artwork will be on display all weekend.

Down at Compound, close to every Sole Collector shoe we’ve ever done is on display…

This tee has a ton of boxes on the front. Corny enough. The real question is how in demand are sz. 12.5 Terminator High Premiums? (In the black box. Of course.) Apparently NINE PAIRS amongst a “collection” of 40 boxes is what the kids are into these days.

Making It Rain Since 1995. Relying on outdated graphics since 2005.

And the KING of them all.

The Chuckster.

In a CB Military Jacket. With epaulets. Instructed to make “Power Moves.”

(Compound Crew — You’re welcome in advance for the reverse product placement!)

- Nick

A Drive Thru Japan: 1st Thursday August

2009-08-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , A u g u s t  6 , 2 0 0 9

Don't forget to stop by Compound this evening to celebrate the monthly PDX holiday that is 1st Thursday. This months installation is:

Survival Drive : Uncovering present-day Japan through a 131 day, 34,033km journey.

"Survival Drive is the incredible journey taken by two artists to document the present-day of Japan. Travelling by car, painter Reijiro Mochizuki (a.k.a. Rei) and photographer Shouichiro Fukuda (a.k.a. Hooky) spent 131 days crossing the country, clocking up 34,033km in the process. Reijiro Mochizki and Souichiro Fukuda undertook this immense journey across Japan creating a series of sketches and photographs of the things they encountered along the way. For this book, we carefully selected the best of their work, along with maps of journey, photos of recording devices, and extracts from their blog."

See you there . . . and don't forget to FIX it up afterwards at Someday Lounge.

Recap soon . . .

-The B.O.P.

Raspberry What? . . . Iced Tea

2009-08-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , A u g u s t  5 , 2 0 0 9

Mr. Wire Hangar (Wiya Hangar!) aka Delonte West makes his triumphant return.

Enjoy!

-Dane

Summer Vacation 09 - Spain Recap

2009-07-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u l y 2 9 , 2 0 0 9

Just got back to Oregon, after my Spanish summer vacation! Long trip but definitely worth all the euros.

One of the best things about Spain is that even the old ladies stay fitted . . . Purple or Pink?

Probably the best day of the trip, the first day of San Fermines in Pamplona, aka the Running of the Bulls. Started at noon on Monday the 6th with a huge wine/sangria/shaving cream fight, then more drinking and partying all night till 8am on Tuesday morning for the first Running of the Bulls.

Only shoe choice for San Fermines, Red Toro Bravo 5's. The traction was exceptional and helped me escape death or injury in the bull run. Intense run but got away all in one piece, except the 5's are very thrashed.

One Bottle . . .

Two Bottles . . .

Too many bottles . . . out by 3 pm ish . . . Cheap dates!

Definitely goes down as one of the top 5 parties ever (up there with Mardi Gras, and Spring Break in Mexico).

Lots of graffiti in Spain, this one got lost in translation.

Spain has the ham game locked down, every super market had its own section selling full legs for 20-150 euros.

Amazing Sangria

Tapas are overrated, in the Basque country pinchos are the way to go. Like a gourmet buffet of appetizers where you walk in grab what ever looks good. Nothing over 3 euros.

Gettin' my Cam-man on in Granada to pick the forbidden fruit in the Alhambra. I've never had a half orange - half lemon before. Kinda like a sour warhead, 1st sour then sweet.

But the most enjoyable part of the trip . . . Topless Beaches,
Barcelona

San Sebastian

Santander

& Cadiz

Overall great trip!

Glad to be back . . . Well Maybe!

-Cam

"Uhh, No DWade -- No Freestyle Contest Tonight At All...."

2009-07-27T23:36:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , J u l y 2 7 , 2 0 0 9

worst rap - Find contests at ibeatyou

- THE B.O.P.

Daily Surroundings : Dropoff for Mikey....

2009-07-25T09:53:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , J u l y 2 4 , 2 0 0 9

Be on the lookout for a skate review of the STPLxAirwalks on the new SC.com in a couple of weeks.

-Nick

?

2009-07-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , J u l y 2 4 , 2 0 0 9

More info this weekend.

-Nick

Stripes.

2009-07-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u l y 2 3 , 2 0 0 9

-Nick

LeBron Getting Dunked On!

2009-07-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u l y 2 3 , 2 0 0 9

Here is the Video I thought didn't exist. It's LeBron James getting dunked on in his own camp by Xavier player Jordan Crawford... some of you may remember Kobe making mention of it in his own camp.

It goes down at about 30 seconds with slow-mo following shortly after.

-Keith

Weapon x NDP

2009-07-22T22:32:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u l y 2 2 , 2 0 0 9

- Nick

Beeeeerfest....

2009-07-22T01:32:00.000-07:00

S a t u r d a y , J u l y 1 8 , 2 0 0 9

''I only came cause I thought it was gonna be like that movie . . . Police Academy 4.''

-- Ira

Hear Jimi.

Much better.

OUT.

Reppin.

Gatorade's "23. Then. Now. Forever." Event

2009-07-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , J u l y 1 3 , 2 0 0 9

Zac and I met up in Chicago for the past two days to check out Gatorade’s event to honor Michael Jordan’s upcoming Hall Of Fame induction. I had a brutal 7am flight from Portland and Zac had a 5 hour drive from Cleveland. Luckily, he was driving straight to the airport to pick me up. Good thing I realized right as I was boarding that I was getting into Midway and NOT O’hare!

First stop : N. Milwaukee

Had lunch at an amazing Mexican spot next door to LEADERS….apparently restaurants can pull off a BYOB policy?

Zac tries to hit a record store wherever we are…

After hitting LDRS & St. Alfred’s…headed over to Wabash where we were meeting up for the Gatorade event.

Barcelona chairs everywhere. Unfair.

NBA Jam TE *and* NBA Fastbreak Pinball!

To honor Michael Jordan’s Hall Of Fame induction, Gatorade invited 23 influencers to help partake in a street art installation. Made of Gatorade Jordan series bottles, it’ll be featured in an upcoming commercial in a few weeks.

Scottie in the house!

Zac chipping in….

Group shot! Bill Wennington and Jackie Joyner Kersee lent some support too.

Headed back over to the event area…Mr. Tastee’s fellas doin tees on the spot for everyone…

Bill was gettin some shots up!

FORM.

Biz just launching at the backboard…

Jose gettin some pinball in. Not a Spiz’ike fan…but that colorway is kinda cool I guess.

Is this a real item?

Filet x potatoes…YES

And Zac kept it veggie as always…

Awesome.

-Nick

FRIDAY NIGHT: LIVE AND DIRECT!

2009-07-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u l y 9 , 2 0 0 9

See you there!

If the flyer mentions "party" FOUR times -- you know it's gonna be good!

- THE B.O.P.

Bad Newz....

2009-07-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , J u l y 6 , 2 0 0 9

Free agency officially begins this Wednesday, on July 8th, when players can begin signing with the teams of their choosing. Several of this summer's key free agents have already reached verbal agreements on their new contracts.

For longtime fans of Allen Iverson like me, this might really be it. No team of note has shown serious interest in signing Him.

"I don't know. I think I would retire."

It was prompted by a simple question: Would you go to a situation where you had to come off the bench?

At this rate, it doesn't seem he'd fit in anywhere as a starter. Surprising as that may be.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens this week..........

- Nick

Welcome to the PE game Dane....

2009-07-05T16:19:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , J u l y 5 , 2 0 0 9

-Nick

Go Ducks....!

2009-07-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , J u l y 5, 2 0 0 9

A friend at Nike knew I graduated from the University of Oregon…and he had a pair of size 9 UO AF25s lying around…so he figured I could get them to an appreciative current student…

Sure enough…Jeff is a happy dude and will be making grown men laugh and cry at some football games this fall!

It was the least I could do after this dude cleaned up the whole 4th of July party mess before I even got out of bed!

- Nick

Christmas in July....

2009-07-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , J u l y 3 , 2 0 0 9

First priority for the day : Change my business cards.

I got a call from Fed-Ex on Monday from a Customer Service dude notifying me that I had a package sent to Satellite Beach, Florida that was undeliverable.

My business cards are over two years old. We haven't used the listed addy for at least the past year....

Rather than have the box returned to sender, Steve had it forwarded to his new place down in nearby Key Largo.

When he mentioned who Fed-Ex said the sender was...I had never heard the name before. What it could be? NO CLUE.

Sure enough....the mystery box showed up at Steve's this morning...and he captured a quick video of the unveiling for us....

Turns out Zac and I both lucked out big time...

Now it's time to get those new cards done up...

- Nick

First Thursday July : Organized Chaos

2009-07-03T03:04:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , J u l y 3 , 2 0 0 9

Kicked things off down at Hecklewood for First Thursday.

Works by Nike SB rider Chet Childress….

Oh yeah…and anyone who wanted to tag the wall up…

Next up…Compound….

- Nick

FIRST THURSDAY JULY

2009-07-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u l y 2 , 2 0 0 9

Be there.

Work from Nike SB rider Chet Childress.

- Nick

RAAAAANNDY!!!!!

2009-07-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u l y 0 1 , 2 0 0 9

This is pretty funny.......

more on the Laugh Your D Off

-Keith

Quai 54 on Sunday...

2009-06-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , J u n e 2 8 , 2 0 0 9

The names this year were GOOD.

Those White/Black/Green 1’s are aweeeeesome. Gotta find someone to split the pack with. Oh yeah, Gentry with the exclusive IX’s. Not droppin…

Whooooooops…

Golden Child was in the house too. He’s listed at 6′1″ but I’d say he was actually taller. Either way…the guy can DUNK. He started his set around 5pm on Sunday…but he started getting warmed up around 1 pm on Saturday…listening to his headphones for a day straight to get pumped up.

The air this dude got was pretty impressive…but he made about 3 out of 30 dunks…all of which seemed physically impossible.

The guy he’s jumping over?

The Godfather of Dunk.

Oh yeah…then Luda and Usher came out. The crowd had no idea whatsoever.

Then a French rapper came out and joined Chris for a couple songs. The crowd went crazy for this guy too…apparently he’s won some Grammy’s out there.

Afterwards…we got some time with ‘em…

- Nick

Best. Sandwich. Ever.

2009-06-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

S u n d a y , J u n e 2 8 , 2 0 0 9

European design is FAR more advanced than what we’re used to seeing in the US. Everything is more sleek, simplified and easy to use. They’re Apple. We’re Microsoft.

But the whole region has a ridiculous design flaw that they’ve never corrected : Showers

All of the showers have one swinging door.

Water = Everywhere

Zac and I had some time Sunday morning to walk around and grab some food.

Here’s the aisle of restaurants that we hit on Saturday night.

We DID NOT eat here.

However, if Cam ever ran into a 'Camden Restaurant,' there is a 100% chance he'd check it out.

Lofty goals.

EPIC FAIL.

No clue what this says.

Sunday market was poppin off…

And then we finally stumbled upon a little cafe….with the best sandwich EVER. Mmmmm…salmon.

Definitely the highlight of the trip…

- Nick

Quai 54 in Paris!

2009-06-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

S a t u r d a y , J u n e 2 7 , 2 0 0 9

Zac and I are out in Paris this weekend to check out Jordan Brand’s Quai 54 tournament.

Flight was looooooooooooooong….

These beds are too damn close.

These are WORKED at this point. Outsole is browning.

Reading material for the flight…

trusty trusty…

HIT.

The crew. G$Money. Frank. Sean. Astor. Reg.

G in Spike Spikes.

Notable player names:

Undertaker. Milkman. Negrostar. Big Boss. Hot Sushi. Dave. Frenchise. The Boss.

- Nick

Mikey got class...

2009-06-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , J u n e 2 6 , 2 0 0 9

My dude rides in style. Thanks for the lift to the airport earlier. I’m outta here to Paris!

The one shoe I told him not to sell…that he kept…

Hood ass cupholders & a tennis ball shift…STYLE…

-Nick

Much Respect Mike.

2009-06-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u n e 2 5 , 2 0 0 9

As you most likely have heard, The King Of Pop has passed away. He was 50.

Threw together some banners real quick and I'm sure I'm speaking for all of us when I say that Michael Jackson's music was something that was hard not to enjoy while growing up.

Some of us enjoy it more than others....

Thanks for the memories Mike.

-Nick

Good for Zac....

2009-06-25T09:46:00.001-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u n e 2 5 , 2 0 0 9

Zac from the mag was in town since Sunday.

Got hooked up with some sweet Laker Hyperizes...

-Nick

Sly Fox.......

2009-06-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u n e 2 5 , 2 0 0 9

COLUMBIA, S.C. - During a Wednesday news conference at his office in Columbia, Gov. Mark Sanford (R) admitted to having an extra-marital affair - information that surfaced after his recent, secret trip to Argentina.

Sanford said he met the woman about eight years ago, but "about a year ago, it sparked into something more than that."

He also announced that he was resigning as chairman of the Republican Governors' Association.

Earlier, the South Carolina governor told a newspaper he was in South America, not hiking the Appalachian Trail as his staff had told the public to explain his sudden absence. He said he "wanted to do something exotic" to unwind after losing a fight over federal stimulus money.

The full story...

And of course...as Fox News would report it.....

Be sure to check out this CNN Link for all of the embarrassing emails sent between Sanford and his lady. Simp.

-Nick

Behind-The-Back Appreciation.....

2009-06-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u n e 2 4 , 2 0 0 9

Woah. 2 new posts.

I guess this site is still around afterall.

Was in meetings Monday, Tuesday and this morning...and planned on showing some behind-the-scenes stuff...but it turns out I can't quite talk about those things just yet. (Good to have Zac as a filter...) But...uh...exciting is a good word for how things went.

Otherwise...I was sent a pretty sweet video this morning via Twitter....

K_Rupp@_NDP : I feel like you could take this kid. You think? http://bit.ly/CK5nk

Here's a video from a year and a half ago...1st try pass to JT...

And here's the B. Manley (AMAZING NAME BTW) video that was sent over to me earlier today...

It's impressive to know there's other non-dunking white guys out there who get so bored shooting jumpers that they too practice ridiculous behind-the-back passes all day long. Gotta say the vid was damn impressive. Good stuff B.

- Nick

The hottest Sneakers in España

2009-06-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

W e n e s d a y , J u n e 2 4 , 2 0 0 9

Been out in Madrid for almost 2 weeks so far, and other than adjusting to the staying out till 6 AM thing, i'm starting to see some other major differences. One of those differences is the sneaker trends.

Like it or not most of the usual stuff out here falls into 2 classes: either that indoor soccer look, or a more clean casual look. I'm not all that into the indoor soccer look but some of the casuals have been catching my eye!

I bring you the most popular sneaker in Madrid since 1915 . . . The "Victoria"

They are a basic canvas upper with a thin cup-sole bottom and the go-to out here . . . and at 20 euros a pair I picked up a couple colors. They offer them in tons of colors & everything from bermuda blue to pistachio green, and back to the basic black.

Made in Spain

The only question is with socks and laces or "Euro style" without laces and no socks? Since 46 (mens 12-12.5) is the largest size they offer . . . When in Rome . . .

These are definitely one of my new favorite summer shoes! I'm gonna have to pick up a couple more colors along the way!

-Cam

Outta Here....

2009-06-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u n e 1 1 , 2 0 0 9

Cam is off to Europe for 48 days.

Have a fun ass time!

Oh yeah...and he plans to hit up Pamplona for the Running Of The Bulls...

PREDICTABLE footwear choice....

-Nick

This Friday : Rotture

2009-06-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u n e 1 1 , 2 0 0 9

Be sure to check out Rotture this Friday....

- Nick

TAN AIR YEEZY LAUNCH!

2009-06-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

S a t u r d a y , J u n e 0 6 , 2 0 0 9

I went out on Thursday and interviewed the people who were waiting in line over two days for the 3rd release of the Nike Air Yeezy's. The first two people had been there from 4pm on Wednesday and waited until today at 12pm to get their pairs!

This can barely compare to Atlanta though, where the SHOE GAME documented the folks waiting for over a week there. Check it here after watching the video...

-Keith

Lil Wayne - Kobe Bryant

2009-06-04T14:03:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , J u n e 0 4 , 2 0 0 9

Tonight at 9pm EST the 2009 NBA Finals will kick off with the Orlando Magic and Dwight Howard taking on the historic Los Angeles Lakers and Kobe Bryant aka The Black Mamba. To start things off today, Lil' Wayne took liberty in leaking a new track titled "Kobe Bryant". This track was produced by Infamous, who helped with production on the multiplatinunm album Tha Carter III, and will most likely never be featured on any Lil' Wayne Albums, that is of course if Kobe and Lil' Wayne don't join forces to create an album. The song features sound bytes from Kobe interviews as well as bytes from LeBron talking about Kobe's skills over a simple beat with some simple rhymes, atleast there isn't vocoder! I guess we'll have to wait until next year for the Jay-Z - King James track.... Enjoy.

Lil Wayne - Kobe Bryant

-Dane

Throwback debut from Kanye

2009-06-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

W e d n e s d a y , J u n e 0 3 , 2 0 0 9

Recently (by which, I mean the last six to nine months) I've been pretty AWOL on the blog updates. So I'll cut to the chase, very few things could get me back here, but one that could is (unfortunately) a Kanye West video. Don't worry, no anime, vocoder or tribesmen, jus good 'ol fashion fishing wire here.

After four years in stasis, Kanye has finally released his video for "Spaceship".

--Ira

The Black Nike Air Yeezy Launch!

2009-06-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , J u n e 0 2 , 2 0 0 9

In anticipation of the upcoming Air Yeezy release in the Tan colorway I have a video of our experience at the last launch for the Black colorway. It is pretty funny and well worth the watch. It stars Mr. Cole a world-class thought giver especially in the fields of basketball, swine flu, Stephen King, Japanese Caramel and of course the Air Yeezy!!!

-Keith

The Most Significant Figure in Jordans Life

2009-06-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , J u n e 0 2 , 2 0 0 9

Watch this, laugh, and then head over to GETYOURBASKETBALLON.com and watch all his video's. Could Charlie be previewing the type of things we'll see from his own sketch comedy show? If he ever does one.

My favorite video...

-Keith

Could This be the Beginning of the Future? (Finally)

2009-06-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

T u e s d a y , J u n e 2 , 2 0 0 9

Gamers and non-gamers rejoice! E3, which is an electronics preview conference type of get-together, kicked of yesterday in LA. Microsoft came out swinging, unveiling what they are calling Project Natal. With this revolutionary system, YOU are the controller. It's motion based gaming control, like the Wii, but YOU ARE THE CONTROLLER! That's right, nothing to hold in your hands or buttons to push. You get to just jump around and flap your appendages like crazy. If this thing works, I am definitely in.

Here is a promo video:

Here is a demo video:

No word on price or release date yet.
Thanks to Dvice

-jt

From "Amazing" to "Caucasian" Video

2009-06-01T00:51:00.000-07:00

M o n d a y , J u n e 0 1 , 2 0 0 9

Thanks to Ira for the heads up on this video, it is quite funny. Oh and a good look by the often clever Cunninlynguists for making it!

-The B.O.P.

Road Trip : San Francisco Day 2

2009-05-31T21:47:00.000-07:00

F r i d a y , M a y 2 9 , 2 0 0 9

After closing out Monday night in rough fashion...we kicked things off by stopping by SELF EDGE just down the street from our spot to say hello to Kiya and the gang. As always, it's a great shop featuring some nice denim and workwear that's just a bit too anti-2006 camo shorts/streetwear tee/gaudy shoes for me -- but I've always loved the place.

Check out these Flat Heads...*impressive*....

Then on a great recommendation from the crew...we hit up Pearl's Burgers off Jones/Post.

Absolutely now adding this to my list of *must eat* spots in SF.

We all had the Kobe beef burgers -- AMAZING.

Dude runnin' the joint was nice as hell too. Great spot.

DOIN IT.

After checking out Darkside Initiative...we wanted to swing by Coit Tower to get what's allegedly the best look at the city....

GREAT.

This'll do...somewhat....I'm standing on a garbage dumpster.

Then we headed down to Haight Street to hit some spots. TRUE is definitely the Compound of SF.

STUFF. EVERYWHERE.

[Disclaimer : THESE ARE REAL TEES.]

And I'm actually mad I didn't grab this.

How unreal is this tee?

TRUE also has a sister sneaker store next door...

Obviously we didn't buy anthing. But I def got love for the shop cause they carry the mag!

Then Ira wanted to check out RVCA. I wasn't too keen on it, but I was impressed by what I'd label the most overdone waiting area I've ever seen.

Checked out Shoebiz next, which has a 2nd floor that's entirely dedicated to adidas Originals....it was pretty impressive and well laid out...but that Jeremy Scott shit is wild as hell...

After checking out HUF on Hayes...they suggested we run across the street for some good pizza to catch Game 4 of the Cavs/Magic series. My good friend I grew up with that I haven't seen in 3 years, Kristin, joined us for the night. She loves sports, fought a UFC match, and at the end of the night danced on a mini-stage at the Beauty Bar. All of the guys approved.

Mikey's boy Che joined us as well. This guy can Swag Surf like no other.

And then basically this set the tone for the night....hit Bender's after and closed the night out at Beauty Bar...can't wait to be back...

-Nick

Road Trip : San Francisco Day 1

2009-05-29T00:48:00.000-07:00

T h u r s d a y , M a y 2 8 , 2 0 0 9

Keith, Mikey, Ira and I hit San Francisco the past few days. Left PDX at 7pm on Sunday and pulled into the Capital City around 4amish and crashed at my mom's place....

Made it to SF a few hours later Monday morning...checked into the spot and were off to see the city....Ira's first time in SF. (Somehow?)

Skechers thanks soccer moms nationwide. TWO STORY flagship.....

This place is impressive every time. Too bad the stores are everymallamerica.

WAY TO GO CHAMPS.

Tried on the AnswerXII...surprisingly a damn comfy shoe...gonna have to grab a pair soon...

Felt a bit softer than these...but I made it through Monday/Tuesday in 'em...

(Shout outs to the kid that stopped me on the street to tell me I was crazy for wearing $1000 Marty McFly Hyperdunks...)

Apparently in the depths of the mall there's an upscale food court. (Thanks for the recommendation Jenny.) Being that I exclusively eat a meal that involves the phrase "double orange chicken" when in a mall setting...I was a bit thrown off....but the tri-tip sandwich & salad were withstandable I guess.

We had a photoshoot planned for 2:30 w/ the Bay kids from the SC Forums so we had to get a move on it. Ira didn't go for the 3-More-Stellas-Beforehand idea.....no spirit that guy...

Keith held it down with the photos....which'll be in the upcoming August Issue...

About 20 or so heads came through...but for some reason these 2 dudes on the left got all WDYWT'd out and got shy once the time came to get a pic....so I made sure to catch them in an awkward candid pic instead....GOTCHA!

Threw everyone some issues for putting up with us...

Meanwhile...across the street was one of our Forums' longtime collectors, Joe, who was ALREADY in line for the MVP VI and Tan Yeezys....

This was on MONDAY. He also had the most impressive line chair I've ever seen. It fully reclined and had a built-in head pillow. Dude is a pro.

Sending some stuff his way for sure...that's just straight dedication...

Then had to check out Niketown...apparently aka THE OFFICIAL HOME OF STREETWEAR....

If that Ira character still did those insanely popular Streetwear Grading Systems you'd get more joy out of the three above photos...but keep your fingers crossed and maybe you'll get a joyous surprise this weekend....

From there we caught the Nuggets/Lakers game at some overpriced joint called Cha Cha Cha's down the street from us and hit the bar world tour of the Mission District...

I'm telling you Ira...tequila is TERRIBLE.

-Nick