Oh, The Places He'll Go: Celebrating Five Years of Militancy on the Blogosphere!

It was five years ago this very month when a mind-mannered, yet proud and literate native Angeleno was surfing the web and felt disturbed and disgusted by the lack of local pride and knowledge that the local blog scene was dispensing. He was so disturbed and disgusted, he took a long bike ride to the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains and ventured on a long hike up towards the Angeles National Forest, where he encountered a wild California black bear who bit him on the leg.

Hours later, he felt himself change and adopt super powers. He then logged back on to the Internet, and started to drop his own knowledge and pride of Los Angeles on the blogosphere. From then on, that mild-mannered native Angeleno adopted an anonymous, third-person identity and became THE MILITANT ANGELENO.

The Militant has taken you on quite an adventure during the past five years, so he recently sat down and took inventory of all the places he's been to and written about on This Here Blog since June of 2007. You can visit each location by navigating this interactive Google Map, where you can zoom in and click on each point of interest, and click on any of the blog posts that visit the location:


View The Militant Angeleno Map (Part 1) in a larger map

But wait...there's more! It seems The Militant has been to so many places in This Here Blog in the past five years that one Google Map cannot hold everything! So there had to be a second map!


View The Militant Angeleno Map (Part 2) in a larger map

Even with all those locations, those maps still are not a comprehensive representation of all the places The Militant has blogged about. Those maps do not include multi-location tour/map posts like his legendary Epic Militant CicLAvia Tour (Original Version and Updated Version), Militant tours of the Metro Gold Line, the Metro Expo Line and Los Angeles historical maps showing locales relevant to Michael Jackson, President Barack Obama and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The maps are also useful to The Militant for (what may or may not be) the next five years, as it also gives him a visual clue as to which locations he hasn't yet blogged about (can you see a "South Bay Week" in the near future?)!

What were your favorite Militant Angeleno posts in the past five years? Are there any places you'd like to see covered in the next five? Has The Militant Angeleno changed your life or rocked your world? Please share them in the comments!

With great power comes great responsibility! But it's been an honor to serve you as your Friendly Neighborhood Militant!

STAY MILITANT!

Public Militancy 101: The Militant Steps Out Of The Shadows

The Social Media: Power & Culture blogger panel. From back: Class instructor Will Coley, Jorge Rivas from Colorlines.com, Celeste Freemon from WitnessLA.com and Yes It's Really Him In Person.
Photo courtesy of Tafarai Bayne.

Since The Militant Angeleno began his blogging endeavor nearly five years ago, from the get-go he sought out to be a mysterious, anonymous figure.

Always dressed in his camouflage garb, he is able to disguise himself as an everyday Angeleno (whatever that may or may not look like) and easily blend into society. You may or may not have met him before!

On The Militant’s first anniversary of his blog, he revealed what he looked like – at least from behind his bandana mask.

He may or may not have revealed himself to a select few native Angelenos who have earned his trust. Last summer, he even treated three loyal readers of this here blog to a free Dodger game, and they got to meet The Militant himself (he still maintained a semblance of his anonymity though).

But The Militant had always wanted to know what it would be like if he presented himself to a group of people in public. 

This past Thursday, he finally got that chance, thanks to one of his loyal readers Tafarai Bayne, who gave him the opportunity to sit on a panel of bloggers for Los Angeles Trade Tech College’s CP10 Social Media: Power and Culture class, taught by Bayne and Will Coley.

The Militant joined fellow bloggers Jorge Rivas of Colorlines.com and Celeste Freemon from Witness LA.com.

The instructors and the class of about 20 students asked the panelists questions about how the bloggers started out, why they decided to blog what they do, what sort of editorial decisions go into making their blog posts, and the topic of content ethics (e.g. crediting photos, the legality thereof and related issues like fair use and meme parody versions).

One of the students even asked The Militant straight-up why he is anonymous, and why he refers to himself in the third person. If you’ve been reading this for a while, you probably already know the answer to that one, right? Militancy 101!

Class is in session. Professor Militant in da house. Aw yeah.
Photo courtesy of Tafarai Bayne

The Militant also shared the background stories behind some of his recent posts, like the South Los Angeles Wetlands Park post, where, after doing errands in the area, decided to just roll through and experience the park for himself; and the Wilshire/Vermont Metro station cell phone post, which was originally intended to be written about several months ago, but The Militant decided to just write about it this week.

As for anyone concerned about whether The Militant finally revealed himself or gave up his anonymity, none of them happened. The Militant didn’t have to give up a thing. Also, he didn’t reveal anything about himself that he didn’t already reveal on his blog if you pay close attention. Though one student asked him a question about whether he had any previous professional writing experience, and he may or may not have had an answer to that.

The Militant had a great time, and the fellow bloggers there were very cool folks who dropped some serious knowledge themselves. Jorge Rivas from Color Lines mentioned that it’s his blog’s policy to spend half an hour writing the headline for a story that took an hour to write, which one of the instructors found fascinating (In The Militant’s case, he won’t even start on a blog post unless he’s thought of some sort of witty/pun-filled/pop-culture-referential headline).

After the panel, some of the students stayed to set up their Tumblr accounts (pictured right). The class, which had been going on for about a month already, explores other facets of teh social media realm in other weeks, and a few of the students are considering embarking on their own blogs.

The Militant sincerely hopes he’s inspired the bloggers of tomorrow (or at least next month), and that they employ their own elements of Militancy in their work!

Now that's an education! Photo courtesy of Bobby Buck

Professor Militant...hmmm…

On another level, it was totally awesome to interact in person with actual people, many of whom stared at The Militant, most likely wondering, “WTF does this guy think he is?”

This may or may not open up other opportunities in the near or far future to do more public appearances! The Militant has always wanted to put on a group bike ride and visit some of the actual places he’s written about! Would any of you dig something like that?

The Militant thanks fellow bloggers Rivas and Freemon for the privilege of sharing our knowledge and experiences, and to instructors Bayne and Coley and the students of the CP10 class, thanks for an unforgettable first-time experience!

The Militant would also like to thank Los Angeles Trade Tech’s security officers for not giving The Militant a hard time as he sauntered through campus in full Militant gear! He really appreciated that! 

Militant "4" Life: The First Four Years of Militancy!

The Militant hasn't been that active on teh blogz lately, but he just wanted to take a little time out of his day to say that four years ago today, The Militant Angeleno blog began.

Normally every year on this date, the Militant does something interesting, or at least reflects on the past few years of Militancy in the City of Angels.

Four years is not exactly an eternity, but it is a considerable amount of time. If the Militant were an elected official, he would have served one full term. Are you more militant than you were four years ago?

Part of his inactivity is attributed to the fact that part of his job has already been done. The number of blogs and website out there in the local scene are much more in touch, more aware and more proud of the city they represent, and the number of bloggers and blog posts that represent the Uninformed-Los Angeles-hating-yet-you-still-live-here-WTF perspective are kind of rare these days.

And that's not just tooting his own horn. The site blogging.la has of late been doing a series highlighting its contemporaries in the local blog scene, entitled, Blogging (in) LA. About a month ago, writer Sean Bonner (Whom the Militant doesn't know personally, but has definitely been on quite a few group bike rides in the past...shhhh :)), wrote a touching paean to the Militant Angeleno's blog. Bonner went on to share his experience as a decade-long transplant to Los Angeles, but one that has learned to love, appreciate and defend his city (unlike most other transplants...). That meant a lot for The Militant to hear!

The quote of quotes read, "There is no question countless people in LA know more about their own city because of [his] efforts." The Militant won't put up a "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED" banner up on some ship in San Pedro harbor, but it definitely validates the reason why The Militant exists.

The Militant has definitely been a presence on Twitter (follow him if you haven't already!) and it's much easier to do, so in this day an age, he's more than just a mere blogger but a FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH! He's even contemplating getting into Tumblr or something -- not to supplant the MA blog -- but to supplement it. He's even thought of doing his own podcast (locally-born/bred bands/artists, take heed!)

As The Militant alluded to at the beginning of the post, life has gotten in the way of blogging (but his real-life persona is no less militant, he will assure you). Sometimes life is too important to live than to write about.

But The Militant is by no means done, there are more journeys and issues to discuss. He has a list of them ready to go. Some of them take lots of time to research (much like his popular Sacatela Creek and Los Angeles Street Signs posts). Also, the next CicLAvia on October 9 will present an expanded route, which means an updated Epic Militant CicLAvia Tour!

If the Militant is starting out his "second term," then he wants to hear from his "constituents." No, not just "Nice post," but what you think The Militant has been doing right, has been doing wrong, places and issues you would like to see. Of course, The Militant doesn't answer to anyone and does whatever he feels like, but he does want to hear about something that will make him think, or at least inspire him. So, don't be afraid to comment on this post, email him or shoot him a Twitter message.

So here's to another FOUR MORE (unspecified number of) YEARS! STAY MILITANT!

A Special Message From The Militant Angeleno (Video)

(Unm)ask A Chola

A chola she definitely is NOT...She still cute though.

The local blogger/vlogger/Tweeter/internet personality world rocked with an earthquake the past few days as the formerly unspecified Ask A Chola's identity was revealed.

Not only was she not a chola (fairly obvious though), but she was someone who wasn't even Latina - she is revealed to be a Greek American named Chloe Michalopolous. and not "Soledad from East Los" as previously puported. And the stinger? She ain't even from the Eastside. She ain't even from the fake Eastside! She's from Orange County!

ORANGE COUNTY?!?

Get the rope.

Of course, there are actual cholas from the O.C. (which does not stand for "Original Chola"), and though she hardly resembled any of the heavily-makeup'd, gravity-defying oversprayed hair-bang chicks the Militant remembered from his Jr. High and High School days, he probably chalked her up as a pocha who similarly went to school or lived in close proximity to cholas. But nawwww!

The Militant feels a little disillusioned right now. He feels like burning all his Ask A Chola merchandise. Okay, he has none, but maybe he'll delete her site from his web browser's bookmark list. Admittedly, and as you can see from the Militant's lovely photo, Ask A Chola was a quasi-semi-part inspiration for the Militant Angeleno, and now he feels like a 10-year-old who was informed that there is no Santa Claus.

The Militant actually spotted Ask A Chola (or is that Ask A Chloe?) this past August in Chinatown hanging out in the Chinatown central square for the Chinatown Summer Nights program. She was sitting on a bench, wearing a retro-style yellow dress, and she definitely fit the description. Besides, she just tweeted she was there, and she was typing away on her smart phone.

The Militant was soooo tempted to snap a pic of her and reveal her to the world, but Blogger's Honor prevailed (he would get pissed if one of his peers ratted him out!) so the Militant just let it go. Of course, who would have known she was a phony? The transplants love to say "L.A. people are all phony" - Of course, this particular phony is from The O.C.!

Now that the damage has been done, the Militant wants to let you, a person who may or may not be a regular reader of this here blog, know that the Militant Angeleno is not a phony. He is who he says he is: A native Los Angeleno who has long been pissed off about people's general ignorance about Los Angeles, and efforts by transplants and the East Coast media hegemony to perpetrate that ignorance. The Militant never made any claims about his ethnic heritage, other than that his parents immigrated from an unspecified Third World country. All of the above was, is and will always be TRUE. The Militant is The Real Deal. Believe it!

And if you don't here's a scan of part of the Militant's actual birth certificate (click to enlarge):
Okay, any and all identifying information has been pixelated out...but the pertinent information is there: 1) It is a document from the State of California; 2) The Militant was born in Los Angeles County; 3) The Militant was born in the City of Los Angeles and 4) He was born inside the city limits. Not merely a So Cal native but a Los Angeles native! Buhleedat!

The Militant should take this opportunity to reach out to all the fellow disillusioned Ask A Chola fans out there: Here's a masked person who walks the walk, talks the talk and even bikes the bike. Sure he won't talk about UFOs that much, but you'll learn craploads about this City, researched and written from the perspective of a real Angeleno who grew up on its real streets. Besides, she hasn't updated her blog since February 2009! (And you though thought the Militant is slacking!) If you're looking for your new masked hero, The Militant Is It!

Despite the Militant's little prank earlier this Spring, the Militant remains anonymous. Sure, some think they know who he is. But the Militant can never confirm or deny such hypotheses. Even if he is revealed, he may no longer be anonymous and unspecified, but he will still very much be...a Militant Angeleno.

Curbed LA Out Of Ideas, Rips Off The Militant

Yesterday, the development blog Curbed LA put out an open call to rename the area formerly referred (and propagated) by them as "The Eastside." They also claimed to end the long-standing debate as to where the Eastside is, and whether brown-skinned folks should be considered actual human beings that are worthy of recognition and interaction.

Well la-di-da, not only did the Militant actually end that debate two freaking years ago, but he also put out the same call to rename the same said area, and even demarcated it with three question marks. A total rip off? Ya think?

Though maybe the Militant shouldn't be angered. After all, this is a major admission (some would call it surrender) by one of the worst perpetrators of mis-naming the "Eastside." And of course, the blatant rip-off is indisputable proof that the Militant is ahead of his time. Lastly, when reading the comments between Curbed and the Militant, it's easy and plain to see that readers of the Militant - even the transplanted ones - are so much more creative, intelligent, insightful and englightened.

On the Curbed forums, an example of their readers' collective ignorance and arrogance is perfectly examplified by the comment made by one such reader named "Sparkletime":

"so tired of all the "i grew up here so i know" argument. who cares. i live here now and i'm fine calling it the east side."

The Militant is sure that "Sparkletime" would be perfectly fine with Angelenos moving into their little Podunk backwards hometown and re-naming everything because they feel entitled to it. Of course, "Sparkletime" probably comes from the kind of town where the biggest weekly event is the Klan march.

Just proves that there's some real ignorant motherfukkkers out there. Even more reason to STAY MILITANT!

KCET Reveals 'Infinitely More' About The Militant

It's not every day that the Militant gets to toot his own horn (or even blog, yes, guilty, guilty...) but a few weeks ago Yoli Martinez from KCET's website dared to do what has never been done before:

Interview the Militant.

It's not like the Militant is off-limits for interviews; you can ask him anything you'd like - it's just that he may or may not give you the exact answer you're looking for.

But there it is, as part of their "Better Know A SoCal Blogger" series (which has previously interviewed folks like Loteria Chicana and Green LA Girl) on their new KCET local site (Blatant cross-promotion, no?).

Oh yeah, in case you're wondering, the interview was conducted via the anonymous guise of electronic mail, which means that any attempt to pester Ms. Martinez (or any other KCET staff member) on any information as to the Militant's phenotypical appearance or true identity will get you nowhere! So don't bother, fool!

Honestly, the Militant doesn't know where this newfound spike in notoriety might lead. Perhaps the Militant needs an agent, or an entourage of his own. Well he kinda sorta already does. Or not. Success may or may not spoil him - we shall see!

But the Militant is insanely humbled at the fact that the online home of The Huell has taken an interest in the Militant and allowed him this rare opportunity to share a little bit more about himself to the online world. Militant Thanks, Yoli, Gary and KCET!

And for those of you who clicked on over from the KCET.org interview wondering, "WTF?" the Militant invites you to catch up on the Militant Archives, to read up on his previous posts. Most notably, posts dispelling various Los Angeles myths/stereotypes and writing the be-all, end-all statement on the stupid "Eastside/Westside" boundary debate. You can also follow the Militant on Twitter. Enjoy and, if you are doing so already... Stay Militant!

Two Years Of Militancy!!

Two years ago this week, the world local blogosphere changed forever.

For what was once a virtual land ravaged by historically and culturally-disadvantaged hipsters chopping away on Mac Books, claiming whatever they wanted to be "The Eastside," the landscape has changed, with some local standard-bearer blogs featuring more historically- and culturally- relevant posts than before, and even some of the formerly voiceless finally becoming empowered.

The Militant's job isn't done, of course, as evidenced by the behavior of some punks in the Downtown area on Sunday night. The Militant still forges on, even through what may or may not be career, time, health or unspecified issues. The Militant knows full well that his lack of prolificity withing the past year has become an issue, both public and personal, but the Militant still lurks amongst the multitudes in the City to bring you what you might not find anywhere else!

The Militant would like to thank each and every one of you for your time, your comments, including the Militant Angeleno's blog in your RSS feeds, your Facebook friend adds and Twitter follows! Much is truly appreciated from the very Angeleno heart and soul of this Militant! If he could bump fists with each and every one of you, he could (but of course, doing such a thing might give away his identity, so unfortunately it ain't gonna happen)!

The Militant has some surprises up his sleeve, so hang on, Angelenos and...STAY MILITANT!!

Smile! You're On Militant Camera!

The Militant gets around, and we all know that. But the Militant may or may not run into some familiar (or unfamiliar) faces during his Militant activities. Sometimes he spots celebrities or other public figures, but he's more excited about spotting some of his fellow local bloggers!

On Tuesday, the Militant happened to spot Randall "BusTard" Fleming (pictured left, standing) of The Bus Bench blog, riding the (M) Red Line to Downtown! He was spotted doing some marketing, dropping "Bus Bench" promo cards into the subway car's pamphlet holder (bottom of the pic). The Militant wasn't sure whether it was really Mr. BusTard or not, but this video, of a Measure R debate last October (he was against it, btw, lol) confirms it was him (Since he appeared as himself in a public forum, that means that he is not maintaining anonymity -- the Militant respects the anonymity of his fellow anyonymous bloggers and will never reveal their identities on This Here Blog - Blogger's Honor!). So, whatup, Randall!?

The Militant can see you, but you can't see the Militant!

(Disclaimer: The Militant does not stalk, and never has stalked, anyone (Well okay, there was this one ex-girlfriend, but that was yeeeaarrrs ago). He's just a watchful observer!)

The Militant's Fi(r)st Annivasary Roundup: The Impact

Being a Militant may have its fun and laughs, but there's a definite serious side to all of this.

See, the reason why the Militant is here in the first place is because he was totally upset at the way this City was being depicted in the blogosphere -- by certain bloggers who claim to speak on behalf of it. Certain people who lack the knowledge, or don't even care to even attain the knowledge, to provide a truly informational - dare the Militant say, educational - resource for their readers. For example, aside from the incessant Eastside/Westside shebang, the sheer cultural ignorance displayed by one unspecified blog in calling an ornate Hollywood-area Russian Orthodox church "Aladdin's Church" and "Arabian-nights themed" this past February was beyond asinine. This City deserves better.

Not to mention the various underrepresented voices of people who certainly have access to blogs, and who are experienced and skilled enough to share their perspectives, but for whatever reason, their voices are left unheard.

And even worse, the cadre of people who dare to call themselves L.A. Bloggers who incessantly bitch, whine and groan about a City they moved to that they are too ashamed to admit they made a bad decision in coming here in the first place, only grasping on the oft-cliched "But I love the weather" response to justify their meager presence here. That aside, if your blog link is located in the right-hand column, it's safe to assume that most likely, the Militant doesn't think you're one of these folks. Actually you're really on there because you've mentioned or linked to the Militant Angeleno in the past, and it's great to reciprocate.

No, this isn't a bash-the-other-bloggers kind of post, the Militant was merely offering perspective. Ultimately, the Militant has been pondering whether his presence has actually made a difference round these here parts.

The best example the Militant can think of is a relatively new blog called LA Eastside which only started this past April. A collective-type blog whose contributors comprise of contributors to other collective blogs, established local bloggers and others who were previously relegated to the comments section of other blogs, the Militant, who is not an Eastsider per se, but very Eastside-friendly, is glad to see such a site exist and present perspectives and stories about a previously underrepresented part of town (blogwise). Even this Militant, who knows quite a bit about this town and its neighborhoods, gets to learn a thing or two by the posts, which really do go beyond the usual, "Hey check this out" or whiny complaint post found elsewhere but delve into deeper issues, such as perception vs. reality of crime/public safety, gentrification, cultural dynamics, and people just living their daily lives (and historical posts always score highly with the Militant as well). So way to go LA Eastsiders! The Militant may or may not have inspired you folks, but he's glad you're around regardless.

Now looking for a South Los Angeles collective blog...

As far as the more established players in the blogosphere, the Militant would like to give props to LAist for, well...improving. The Militant gives credit to that blog for being one of the first blogs to break news of the Militant's arrival (in a post that came out exactly one year ago today), but found some of their coverage rather limiting and in some cases annoying and borderline ignorant. Not so anymore. It's tough to be all things to all people, but they've struck a pretty good balance between news, lifestyle posts, sports, entertainment and arts and local issues. The coverage is much more diverse now and overall the Militant really does see his City in that blog now, as opposed to the somewhat alien perspective he saw in the past. So keep up the good work LAistas! Again, the Militant's influence may or may not be debatable here, but he's grateful for the more positive change nonetheless.

Incidentally, both LAist and LAEastside in the past have asked the Militant to be one of their contributors. The Militant was flattered but had to respectfully decline in both cases...The Militant was, is and will always be independent.

There's really no way the Militant can accurately gauge his impact on the Blogosphere. Maybe one day he'll hire a research team to conduct random polls and find out. It's all up to conjecture, really. But if you wanna ask the Militant, hell yeah he's made an impact! Yet there's still much, much more work to do.

Right now, though the Militant would like to take this time to tip a 40 to the local bloggers who have since fallen during the course of this year. Shall we observe a moment of silence? Cue the sentimental soundtrack and memorial montage...

LA Bus Girl...

MetroPed...

Eye On LA...

and of course...LA City Nerd...

Rest in peace, folks. You may or may not be always remembered.

Now, on to year two!

Things To Do During Limbo Week - Wednesday

Greetings, Angelenos! Hope you had a great Christmas. This is the time of the year where we're faces with two holidays within a week of each other, and we're either on a short vacation/break or forced to go to work with very little activity, much less productivity. The Militant calls it...Limbo Week!

For the rest of the week, the Militant will offer suggestions on how to bide your time, whether you have the whole week off, or whether you're forced to hold down the fort at the office. True to Militant style, the following suggestions are either free or come at very little cost (you need it since you've probably accrued additional credit card debt the past few weeks anyway).

Wednesday's Vacation Option: humor us Exhibit at Barnsdall Park's Art Gallery

Whether you got some free time on your hands, or want to entertain out-of-town guests (remember, people might have left town, but others have come back home for the Holidays), go check out an exhibition called humor us at Barnsdall Art Park. It's a multi- and mixed- media exhibit of over 100 works by twenty Asian American artists with ties to Southern California, which explore the all facets and interpretations of humor, while exploring issues of cultural identity, race and representation. According to the exhibit's literature, "Often the butt of jokes or the comic relief within mainstream media - from Fu Manchu to William Hung of American Idol notoriety - Asians and Asian Americans are often stereotyped as eternal foreigners, model minorities, inscrutable, nerdy and yes, humorless."

The works consist of everything from paintings, photographs, sculpture, industrial art, videos, audio and even a large snail rollercoaster and a rock that thinks via an LED thought bubble. Interesting stuff that's very scant on the usual cliches of this kind of art, and most of all the Militant doesn't know any of the artists personally, which means that it the exhibit won't suck.

humor us is free and runs until December 30.

humor us
Municipal Art Gallery
Barnsdall Art Park
4800 Hollywood Blvd
Los Feliz/East Hollywood DMZ
Open daily, 12 noon-5 p.m.


Wednesday's At-Work Option: Check Out the UnHipLA Blog

Stuck at work? Workload is close to nil? Wondering why you're even there in the first place? Open your browser and check out a new blog! Thanks to a tip from one of his most trusted operatives, the Militant adds another approved guerrilla faction to his blogroll in UnHipLA, written by a SGV-based Un-Hipster who has actually been blogging for a little over a year and covers largely food, shops and events in The Other Valley. Recent entries: 90-cent pumpkin empanadas, the new Whole Foods Market in Pasadena and a little-known, but mega-affordable Taiwanese street food eatery in San Gabe. The blogger also makes a lot of allusions to biggestmenu.com, which is also the reason for the abundance of food-related topics (though it's UnHipLA is not strictly a foodie blog). It's also not strictly an SGV blog either, as some of the posts also cover events and places in Little Tokyo, Historic Filipinotown, Miracle Mile and even Hong Kong.

In some ways, it's kind of like the Militant's blog, minus the activism and militancy and plus more food and 626-related subject matter. Drop on by and tell UnHip the Militant sent ya!

UnHipLA (www.unhipla.com)

Christmas Shopping...in the Park?

Readers familiar with Siel (no, not Seal), a.k.a. Green L.A. Girl have probably noticed that the Militant asked her for some advice a couple weeks ago on her L.A. Times Blog looking for a local source of a composter for the Militant's mama for a Christmas present (the Militant's mama, though aware of his various militant activities, is not actually aware he is the Militant Angeleno per se, (she is only aware he has some website where he writes about the City) nor does she read blogs, so the surprise aspect of this present is in no danger of being diminished.

Her reply directed the Militant to the Griffith Park Composting Education Facility (pictured right) where on Friday the Militant picked up a composter usually sold for $85 for a mere Andrew Jackson, thanks to a city subsidy. He also got a free pair of gloves and a miniature blue recycling bin (presumably used for storing pens and pencils on one's desk, or maybe a good accessory to a little girl's Eco-Conscious Barbie playset) thrown in.

They only do these sales events once a month, so you probably missed out on the one on the 14th (as well as possibly catching the Militant - one of the reasons why he did not announce this previously), but the Los Angeles City Bureau of Sanitation has a schedule online where you might be able to take advantage of these sales as part of your 2008 New Year's resolutions (which should also include walking, biking, taking transit, appreciating the people and cultures of this city more and getting more involved in your community, right?).

Being this was the first time the Militant has been in the park since some dude decided to take a nap smoking in the brush last May, he had a chance to survey the damage from a much-closer view. To his surprise it wasn't as charred out as he thought it would be (of course all that hydromulching back in September probably helped things out cosmetically), and his cherished section through Mineral Wells (pictured left) seemed untouched, though from the photo as you can see, the charred-out section is on the ridge on the top, while the intact portions are at the bottom. And oh lookie - some deciduous trees with brown autumnal leaves. And they say the seasons don't change here?

The Blogosphere Expands

Some five-and-a-half months ago (is that it? seems like forever), the Militant Angeleno burst into the scene and the Los Angeles blogosphere hasn't been the same. The Militant is also a legend in his own mind.

But seriously, the purpose of the Militant is to deliver a voice that's usually never heard, to feature perspective, communities, people and urban adventures many people never even consider.

But the blogosphere is one symbiotic environment. Other blogs like the now-dormant, reportedly formerly-anonymous (!) Los Angeles City Nerd (don't bother clicking, nothing's changed since when you last been there...) and Ed Fuentes' observant Downtowner blog View From A Loft deserve tons of props for initially spreading the word about the Militant's presence, as well as the other blogs listed in the blue box to the lower right side of this here page.

So it's only fitting, that the Militant, now a part of this symbiotic eco-systemic biosphere environment universe thing, do his part and give props to some other newer blogs that deserve attention.

MetroPed-agogy

The first is MetroPed (metroped.net), a site run by a dude named Anh and a dudette named Meghan who are both active bicycle commuters and participate in the city's growing bicycling community. The site recently came to the Militant's attention via an unspecified member of the Hollywood chapter of the Los Angeles Burrito Project.

According to the site, "Metroped is a blog dedicated to bicycling, pedestrian, and public transit advocacy in Los Angeles. In a vast city ruled by the automobile, we will strive to explore the many facets of using alternative modes of transportation, in the hopes that readers will be encouraged to leave their cars at home, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and become involved in an ongoing dialog about improving our quality of life on this planet."

The latest entry to date features some upcoming bike rides, but most importantly thje recognition that bicycle culture is growing in the City. "Is it the fact that bicycles and bike culture are becoming “hip” and “stylish?" the blog asks. Who knows? But if this is the newest trendy thing, then so be it. It's probably the best urban trend here since...breakdancing (uh, that probably dates the Militant's age right there...).

The blog began on November 12 and initially looks like a cross between MetroRiderLA and Bikeboom.com, most of the posts are about upcoming events. But hopefully we'll get to see more perspectives and stories from the saddle (and the sidewalk and subway) and advocacy pieces. Of course the blog's identity happens (and evolves) over the course of time, and even the Militant himself is still experimenting with different approaches and focuses (focii?). But the Militant, being a multimodal kind of person, sees the potential there, and will be looking at their career with great interest.

Fly The Chicana Skies

The other featured blog is written by an LA transplant - of a totally different kind.

The vast majority of Los Angeles blogs are written from the point of view a (usually relatively new) transplant from points east who blog their discoveries, observations, generalizations and hangups in dealing with what really is culture shock. So what happens when you take a Los Angeles native out of the Southland and bring them "Out East?"

Chicana Skies (chicanaskies.blogspot.com) describes itself as, "The musings of an LA native recently uprooted to Philadelphia." Apparently the (anonymous) Angelena blogger is 20-something, Chicana (duh :)) and who is out there to attend school at an unspecified institute of higher learning in Southeast Pennsylvania.

She also has only been blogging since mid-November but she's already been to NYC and Jersey and offers the unique perspective of a Los Angeles native dealing with life Out East, blogging her discoveries, observations, generalizations and hangups in her own culture shock.

She started out as a commenter on this here blog. Her latest entry discusses the varying perspectives between people of different regions (and climates) regarding the Fall season and observes that many East Coasters have a "Manifest Destiny" mentality that remains with them (and especially so) when they transplant themselves west. Militant approved!

She hasn't been posting too much, but cut her a break - like LA Bus Girl, she's focused on her studies (we hope!) and blogs whenever her busy schedule allows her. If the Militant were Batman (in many ways, he is...well except for the wealthy part), then Chicana Skies is Batgirl.

Honorable Mentions

Some other honorable mentions -- Chimatli, also a frequent reader of the Militant, has actually been blogging since April and brings another (real) Eastside voice to the table. The Hollywood Jedi is a community blog written...from a Jedi's point of view, which also employs terminology from the Star Wars universe. Also from that part of town, Hijo de E-Ho is written by a community leader from East Hollywood who's writing about all the cultural events, development and streetlife in his 'hood. An unspecified number of those just- mentioned bloggers may or may not be operatives of the Militant, but he will likewise protect their operative identities as they have protected the Militant's. The Militant also hopes they get off their asses and try to blog more frequently, since he digs their perspectives on their respective communities!

The Militant does not know whether this here blog was an inspiration for any of the aforementioned bloggers to get-get crackin', but regardless, he's still proud - and glad - we have some more voices that deserve to be heard.

O Blogger, Where Art Thou?

Though the Militant hasn't posted since Saturday, he is alive and well and blogging again, albeit with an uncharacteristically succinct post. However, many (the Militant assumes many) are wondering what happened to the other great anonymous Los Angeles blogger, Los Angeles City Nerd (pictured left -- Disclaimer: Portrait is only a dramatization and not intended to depict the actual City Nerd).

The Nerd's whereabouts were in question after an absence of nearly two weeks in late July-early August. Many loyal readers noticed the Nerd isn't as prolific nowadays. Now the Nerd's page reads, "This blog is open to invited readers only."

Has the Nerd gone all Hollywood club VIP on us? Has the Nerd been beaten up and delivered a wedgie by Los Angeles City Jock (lol, there's no such blog, it just looks kinda cool to have a hyperlink there)? Site redesign? Alien abduction? Subpoena?

Or worse: Was the Nerd's identity revealed?

Lest you think there's some blue state-red state/Dodgers-Giants/ Great Taste-Less Filling/ Tupac-Biggie Smalls/ Paul Dateh-Miri Ben-Ari rivalry between us, the Militant will assure you that is simply not true. Though the Militant and the Nerd don't exactly hang out at Lakers games, Downtown bars or even The Huntington Library together (though it's possible the Militant and the Nerd might have crossed paths earlier this month, hmmm), without the Nerd, there would be no Militant.

Though "Los Angeles City Jock" would be an AWESOME name for a sports blog...

The Non-Volunteer State

The Militant picked this up weeks ago, but decided to hold off on it until he got a few events out of the way. On LA's Homeless Blog earlier this month there was an entry referring to a Daily News article on how Los Angeles residents are less inclined to volunteer. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, only 22% of Angelenos (likely of the non-militant ilk) were likely to volunteer in their community, compared to 29% of San Franciscans and San Diegans and 27% in the state capital and the former state capital (San Jose). The Golden State gave an average of 25%. There were no comparisons mentioned to NY, Illinois, Texas or even the Volunteer State itself, Tennessee. The article questioned why volunteerism among Angelenos was so low, citing traffic, the cost of living or even general apathy to the point where people have given up because they haven't seen any results or change.

Though not debating the blog entry, this Militant, who was raised with a volunteer ethic, and the majority of his circle of friends as well as operatives, have been known to volunteer for various causes or activities.

The Militant will give the real reason.

In short, people come to California, or most specifically Los Angeles, to take, not to give. This is a place where people come "out here" to "reinvent themselves" (run away from their past) and "make it big" or "be a star" (eyes rolling). Most of them have no interest in improving the quality of life "out here" (that seemingly innocuous phrase immediately communicates disownership), since it's not their hometown anyway?

The Militant will throw out the big analogy here. Los Angeles is like a tree. No, not a palm tree, but an orange tree, if you will. People have come from all over the country and all over the world to this tree to pick and savor the sweet fruit it bears, for its fruit is unlike that of any other tree. But after picking its fruit, the people soon discovered the fruit had become bitter, malformed, and the tree was no longer healthy. Seeing this, they left the tree alone and went for another tree to pick at its fruit.

What the people failed to realize was that the tree had started to deteriorate -- because no one bothered to care for it. No one watered it, no one helped make the soil fertile, no one helped clear the tree of pests and parasites.

What you get out of the tree is what you put into it. What you get out of Los Angeles is what you give to it. Ask not what your city can do for you, oh you know the rest.

The Militant knows many out there are laughing and will continue to whine and complain, only to move to where life will be more convenient for them. Good riddance, I say. Revitalization begins from within. In the meantime, I'll be training some more militants for our revolution...