A Corner Turned - Why I Do This

OK, I owe everyone an explanation or excuse if that's what you want to call it. Recent events with Google Adsense left me with a HUGE dose of  "who gives a crap" (toned down to maintain my PG site... LOL). But, I have decided to move past it hopefully and return to this and begin my posting of "odd & unusual" sites once again. I feel the need to explain myself and this site one more time before moving on.

The main purpose of this site is to entertain and, in a small way, maybe inform the readers. A close second reason, however, is to help support myself in a lifestyle which includes crawling into an RV in about two years and traveling full time. I love finding the "odd & unusual" and believe that there's a LOT of such places to see. The "support" goal is the reason that the website is "monetized". You'll see ads, links, etc here. Hopefully, not too many, but still, enough to live. I have no visions of becoming an internet millionaire or anything like that. My hope is that I merely make enough off the websites to buy food and gas and whatever other incidentals that are required to maintain the lifestyle as a "fulltimer." It will be necessary to have some alternate sources, but the best scenario would be to completely support myself with this site and any others I might open.

The details of the ways the site is "monetized" follow. I put a break here, just because the dang thing is too darn long without the break. I would love for you to read so that you understand what is going on. I also understand that I'm probably boring you to tears!

(continue reading by clicking the READ MORE link below)



The first and most direct way I have for support is the DONATE button, located in the upper right of every page. Through PayPal you are able to directly make a contribution to the "cause." I use PayPal because it is the easiest way for me to receive support without having to figure out how to receive mail, cash checks, etc. Plus, PayPal gives us the ability to accept credit cards.

I also use a couple of "pay per click" options. Google Adsense is, by far, the number one player in this area. But, I've been suspended for "suspected invalid activity", which I guess means fraudulent clicks. They don't tell you what happened either in their initial contact or in their denial of appeal. They are just the Big Bad Wolf and that's it. This suspension was the reason for my recent absence here. You can read more about it here.

I have signed on with another "pay per click" advertiser, AdBrite. I have no clue how they are going to work out, but hopefully even better than AdSense. Their ads are located in the upper left side and bottom of every page. It seems that so far it's always one display ad. In a "pay per click" environment, if a reader clicks an ad, the advertiser pays AdBrite for the click and AdBrite pays a portion to me. AdBrite also uses a method where they "highlight" specific words in my blogs. If you hold your mouse over a highlighted word, an ad appears. So another way to support the "cause" is to click on an ad that interests you. I do not advocate or request any fraudulent clicks. No need to get suspended again by another company.

I also use Commission Junction which is a straight commission type situation. Basically, I apply (approval is NOT automatic believe it or not) with companies for permission to post a link to their websites. Right now these links are on the right, maybe midway down. I have match.com and godaddy.com (my provider) on there right now. The only drawback is that it doesn't "pay per click" the reader must click and then "buy" something for it to pay. The pay is far better, but far more difficult to get.

Amazon.com also provides a commission program which works a little differently. On some  posts, there is a link to Amazon.com for books that are related either specifically or generally to the subject of the post. If a reader has an interest in the subject of the post and then goes to Amazon and purchases an item, I am paid a small commission.

Given all of these opportunities, you'd think making enough money to survive would be easy. It's not. On average the clicks from Adsense paid about 30 cents each. In total over the course of my most productive month I had about 300 ad clicks ($100). There were a lot more visits (approximately 6,000 that month), just that usually less than 5% actually click an ad. One of the sites I visit, Tioga George Blog, and emulate gets about 1,000 hits a day and that translates into a little less than $1,000/month.  I need to do even better than that.

I have never realized any revenue from any of the other methods mentioned above.

This is a lot of pretty specific detail about the money situation, but I'm trying to explain everything. Tioga George completely discloses his finances, so I feel pretty comfortable about using his example. So, having said all of that, I thank you for your attention and hopefully, support. Even more important, please recommend our site to your friends, relatives, co-workers, in-laws and even enemies. I need the traffic, clicks, etc.

Nothing Unusual Here... just some personal notes

During the month of April, we posted 6 times. That is quite a lot less than the month of March when we were on the road. The ultimate "goal" for this website is to generate enough interest in what we're doing (the "odd & unusual" sites) so that we can do it full time. We are aiming towards traveling full time in an RV, posting such sites on a regular basis. We probably won't match the 35 we posted in March 2010, but somewhere far greater than 6!!!

While living a stationary life, we hope to post at least a couple times a week, a goal that we obviously didn't meet in March. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who visits our site. We're having a blast doing it. The visits are great and the "ad clicks" even better, so keep 'em coming if you would. And... tell all your friends, relatives, co-workers, enemies, email lists and stranger about the site.

Thanks again everyone!

Joe

Ballerina Clown - Venice Beach, California

OK... only in Venice Beach, California... or at least most appropriately in Venice Beach would you find the "odd and unusual" site pictured to the left.

The sculpture is by Jonathan Borofsky Read more about Jonathan Borofsky and is entitled, "Ballerina Clown." When you get right down to it, it's nothing more than a ballerina in a clown mask and white gloves. It's just an unsettling sight for some reason. The juxtaposition of the ideas we have in our heads of clowns and ballerinas don't come together as one very well. I would assume that if you're one of many who are afraid of clowns, this sculpture has to rank high on the list of scary images.

The current occupant of the building where "Ballerina Clown" is located is CVS Pharmacy. They weren't the occupant in 1988 when the sculpture was erected, but we don't know who was.

You can see the articulated right knee in the photo at right. Apparently, there is an electric motor which causes the leg to "kick." We have never seen it operate, so we have no clue whether it still works.

 

The photo on the left is a little closer view of the face and expression of "Ballerina Clown."  Oddly, tears accompany the half-smile.

On the right, I couldn't resist. I had to shoot one "upskirt" pic just so I could say I did!!

Venice Beach is one of those places that is full of odd & unusual sorts. Especially on Sundays. The boardwalk along the beach is full of people selling their wares, be it anything from beads and jewelry to henna tattoos. And, lately, a dozen or so standing on the sidewalk, calling to all, "The doctor is in, get your medical marijuana card today!" We're assuming that once you get the card they sell you your first "prescription" as well. Read more about Venice Beach, California There will certainly be more to come from Venice Beach, I'm sure.

Joe

The Donut Hole - La Puente, California

We're going to have to start out today with our "new word for the day (week? month? who knows when we'll come up with another one), "programmatic architecture". OK, OK, so that's two words. We guess the basic definition is a building that's built in way to relate to it's function. Although, it must be a pretty broad definition because our research is turning up lots of buildings built to look like something, but the design is not related to the building's purpose or function. But, there's no question about this first one... it definitely relates to it's function!!!
It's a donut hole! Hence, the name of the place. According to what we found on the internet, there were several of these "Donut Holes" at one time, part of a chain. We're not sure if this is the only one left, but it was the closest!!!
			As you enter the "Donut Hole" the portion of the building on the left is your typical donut shop with various pastries displayed to tempt you. You roll up to a window and place and pay for your order.
On the right hand side of the building is the preparation area with the various ovens, refrigerators, and other equipment needed to make the various items for the donut shop. And... yes... these pics were taken from the 4Runner. The donuts were very tasty and worth the drive!!
In reality, the building is a fairly routine design with the two faux donuts at either end. This is the exit "hole." (sorry about the lighting changes, really, both ends are the same color!!!)
In the two images below you can see the left & right sides of the building with the donuts on either end. You'll have to forgive the homeless guy on the one side of the building. We bought him a donut to get him to leave, however, once the purchase was made, he didn't. It seems he didn't fully understand the parameters of the deal. Funny thing is, as we were leaving, we saw in our rear-view mirror that he was leaving too!!! Sheesh
So there you have it, our entry for today. We should apologize once again for the tardiness of this post. We tried to do a few things differently, behind the scenes stuff that you really don't even notice. Hopefully, as the website progresses, we'll improve our skills and reduce the time between posts. Currently, we're trying to do a couple of posts every week when we're not traveling. As we've said in the past... those of you "in the know" will understand that we are not the best with deadlines. In fact, coming soon we're going to try and promote some "anti-inspirational" messages... as a joke... things like; "Procrastination is not a problem for me... I've made it an art form!!!" Enjoy your day. Joe

Travel Angel - Los Angeles, California

OK folks, the first order of business is an apology. It has been nearly a week since our last post, so we're sorry it's been so long. Our excuse is that we were sick with a cold/flu, but we all have excuses and very few of them are worthwhile. It is our hope to post to this at least two to three times a week when we are not traveling (like now). Those of you that know us, know that we're not real good at hard and fast schedules and besides, that's not the theme or purpose of this blog or even how we want to live our lives. If it works for you... great. It really doesn't work here!!! :) Now... on to today's post!!!
	This is the "Travel Angel" which is tucked away under a stairwell in a back corner of the famous Farmers' Market in Los Angeles at 3rd & Fairfax. One of the great things about finding these sites is that we discover more and more information as we continue. It turns out this "angel" is one of approximately 200 angels which were part of a 2001 Los Angeles public art project titled, "A Community of Angels". We already have 2 or 3 more "Angels" on our "to do" list. Apparently all the "sculptures" are identical. They are just decorated differently. If you know of the locations of these additional "angels" please let us know. Maybe they will appear in a later post!!! The plaque pictured to the left explains a little about the sculpture and the project and identifies the artists. The photos below show more detail and various views of the statue. The body of the sculpture is about 6 feet tall with a "wingspan" of maybe 4 feet at it's widest.
Here's a little closer view of this statue. Notice the stereotypical garb, sunglasses and even a camera hung 'round his neck!!! We are particularly fond of the shirt. We wonder if that comes in our size?	Here's a bit of an overview of the back of the statue. The backside of the wings are covered with postcards and travel photos. Oh... by the way... my friend wanted us to take this photo because, "He's got a nice butt!!!"
<===== Over there is the left wing in a bit more detail. The front side of the wings are covered in maps. It is not one continuous map, but rather a collage of sorts.	=====> This is the right wing and we can't really think of anything to say, so this is just a space filler in a lame attempt to "even things out a little bit."
This photo shows a little more detail at the edge of the wing. Both wings are edged with various stamps. You can also see more detail of the maps used on the front of the wings	This shot is included solely for the cheap gratification of my friend who was with us the day we visited "Travel Angel." She was very excited when, upon examining the statue carefully, that she found El Paso, Texas. So, if you look just over the statue's right shoulder you'll see El Paso on this particular portion of the wing. So this is for you... you know who you are!!!(See... I do respect other's privacy). Also, this is the same person that made the "nice butt" comment above... those Texans... sheesh!!!
I should mention the hat I guess. That's the same hat that is in the photo on the map at the top of every page. My friend Bob (the Wagonteamster [[link]]) gave me that. It's from a cotton gin company in the middle of Texas somewhere named "Needmore". So... the cap says... "Needmore Gin". (If you run into me in my travels, beer or scotch are actually preferred). As for the pose... well, those that know me... and hopefully from the tone of this blog... know I rarely play anything "by the rules."	OK... so on a personal note, this is me. We have recently sort of switched over to using the "royal" "we" in writing this blog. Not sure why that happened, just heard, read or learned somewhere that is the proper way to handle things. I'll break from tradition here and just be myself for a minute though. During the entire road trip, all 5300 miles of it, I traveled alone. Took all the photos, did all the writing, posted all the blogs all by myself. Most likely, it will continue that way for a long time or maybe until "hell freezes over" as some have said. On this particular day, I had the great fortune of being accompanied by a friend, so a shot of me was possible!!! Not sure if that's a good or a bad thing, but for what it's worth... here I am... or maybe... there I am. Apparently, there's a book about the "Community of Angels" art project. You can find it at Amazon.

Porn Star Walk of Fame - Los Angeles, California

Most people have heard of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with it's many sidewalk stars and the more famous footprints and handprints along Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood. Some have, no doubt, also heard of the Rock Walk of Fame near the Guitar Center on Sunset Boulvard, which honors great rock and rolll musicians. Since we stay away from such "mainstream" attractions, we set out to find a slightly more obscure, less "heard of" "Star Walk." And... you're in luck!!! (subject to opinion?) We have found the "Porn Walk of Fame!!!"
	Located in front of what was the Pussycat Theater (now "Studs") are the permanent venerations of a few of the more famous (although now somewhat aged) stars of porn.

So... in the pics we have...
Kay Parker & Eric Edwards (one square - no clue who they are); Georgina (Spelvin - is the last name I think she used); Linda Lovelace; Marilyn Chambers; Harry Reems; Jay Laurence (no clue) and John Holmes

The site only contains those 7 sets of footprints and handprints. And, no, there are no impressions of other body parts to be found (I looked... and hoped). Currently, it appears to be abandoned with a "for sale" sign posted on the property. You can check out some porn industry stuff from Amazon here.

Joe

Corporate Head - Los Angeles, California

OK... we've all been in the position of "banging our head against a brick wall", but I think this guy may have taken it just a little too far!!! (in this case... granite, not brick)
This sculpture and accompanying poem is a part of "Poet's Walk" located around the area of Figueroa Avenue and 7th Street in downtown Los Angeles. We really haven't done a lot of searching for other objects in this collection but maybe they will make future posts. This, however, caught our eye in it's own right, rather than as a part of the collection.
	If you're looking to find this guy, he's on the south side of 7th Street, just west of the intersection with Figueroa Avenue. He's there at the entrance to the office building.
We love this guy though. We KNOW that we have felt like this many, many times. Even without facial expressions, you can feel the frustration, or at least we can.
	In the photos above you can see a bronze plaque just behind the figure. This is the poem which accompanies the sculpture. The author of the poem is Philip Levine. We didn't find a website for Levine, but a Wikipedia article is here. Here's an Amazon link to works by Levine. Philip Levine at Amazon.com The artist who crafted the sculpture is Terry Allen (website).
The plaque below is placed further behind the sculpture but cites the artist and poet and provides the title and date.
By the way, not sure if we have mentioned this before, but if any of you out there have suggestions for places we should visit, PLEASE let us know. Thanks for looking. Joe

Fork In The Road - Pasadena, California

So, you head north on Pasadena Avenue and there's a fork in the road... NO... DUDE... there's a FORK in the road!!!

I really have no idea why this is here, but located in the southern portion of Pasadena, California, just south of Huntington Hospital is the "middle of the road" (as opposed to "roadside") site above. This "fork" is located on Pasadena Avenue where it separates into one way north (Pasadena Avenue) and one way south (S. St. John Ave) streets.

The fork to the left is actually made of wood and then painted to look like the common eating utensil. It does look like there was a time when there were other colors there and now have been painted over. I'm not an expert on size, but I would estimate the fork to be 15 - 20 feet tall. It was apparently the site of a recent Easter Egg Hunt, based on the number of plastic eggs in the area.

One thing about this place... when told to use the "fork in the road" as directional guidance... this place is hard to miss.


Joe


Weird California: Your Travel Guide to California's Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets

Roadside Santa - Oxnard, California

If you're on the 101 (Ventura Highway.... think the Eagles America... thank you anonymous commenter!!!) between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, this roadside sight will be on the north side of the freeway, just east (south) of Oxnard. For whatever reason, the freeway here is commonly labled "north/south" when, in fact, it is running virtually east/west.

Not only is this "attraction" a bit odd and unusual in it's own right, sitting at the side of the road year-round. But the story of how it got here is pretty cool too.

Santa originally rested atop a false chimney on a Candy Store on Santa Claus Lane between Carpinteria, California and Santa Barbara, California. Apparently, back in the 50's it was thought that a year-round Christmas attraction located on the beach would be a great idea. And it was, for many years. I remember about 20 years ago, taking my daughters up to "Santa Claus Lane" to take photos for a Christmas card. I don't think we ever used them and now, who knows where these photos are. The plaque below shows the original sculptor and date of the original completion.

Eventually, the powers that be (whoever they are), came to the conclusion that a "Santa Claus Lane" on the beach had lost it's novelty and attraction. Plus the Santa which had been sitting atop a faux chimney was in disrepair and the owners were planning on taking it down and/or destroying it.

Eventually, even the street name was changed. Only a small section of roadway under the freeway (about 400 feet long) which connects the renamed Padaro Lane and Via Real remains "Santa Claus Lane." The shopping area has been revamped to more traditional themed businesses.(I would like to include a photo of the way things used to be on Santa Claus Lane, but I have none and I do not believe in "borrowing" from another website. If you have such a photo, let me know!)

The plaque above makes reference to "Nyeland Acres". That is the area where Santa (and a few other decorations) are now located. The good people of Oxnard saved Santa from certain demise. You'll note in the photo above, Santa has on glasses. Just to let you know, in the summer time, he dons a pair of sunglasses!!! Not sure of the brand though. Once I hear that the glasses have been changed this year, I'll try and go back up and insert another photo here!

At any rate, Santa now sits beside the roadway. It's kind of a trick to get to, but you have to get on the frontage road on the exit past Santa if you're traveling north (west). I've never gotten there traveling south (east) although I doubt it's one of those "You can't get there from here" sort of places.

Billy & Bo here do their best to guard this roadside Santa. Everything other than the actual Santa statue itself was added after the trip down here to Oxnard. I don't know if there is any significance to the names here. If you have information on this kind of stuff... I'd love to hear from you.

They have added a few decorations here in Santa's new home. I'm assuming "in season" and at night, this is a Christmas tree. And, of course there's Bo & Billy above representing the familiar soldiers from The Nutcracker.






There's even reindeer on the fence and gate including RUDOLF!

Yes, it's a little odd to have a year-round Santa, maybe even more so because this is California and not the North Pole. But, when it gets right down to it, shouldn't we all practice the spirit of giving 365 days a year? Merry Christmas my friends, every day of the year!

Joe

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