They're here! <b><a href="december2005/index.htm">A new gallery of 100 photos</b></a> is now posted for your viewing pleasure. All of them were shot on Winter Solstice, December 21, 2005 -- aka Big Wednesday. And of course, they were all shot at Sunset. Enjoy!

The other day I had the opportunity to try out the new <b><a href="http://motomat.net">MOTOMAT</a></b> high performance changing mat. As some of you may know, I generally just walk down to the surf, so I don't have to hassle with getting in and out of car before catching some waves, but the other day I went to Topanga and I was forced to do what most of us have to deal with regularly -- wriggle out of a wet, sandy, dirty wetsuit and discreetly change into some dry clothes before figuring out where to stow the dirty mess without ruining my car. The MOTOMAT simplified and streamlined the whole process. It can also be used for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking and other activities where you need to change outdoors.

The jetty at the western border of the Bel Air Bay club is being extended... numerous boulders have already been added. Gina Ladinsky and Nancy Hastings of Surfrider are working to check to see if permits were pulled, as well as to ascertain the intention. It may cause sand shifts, but it is unclear as to what effect - positive or negative - this will have on the break at Sunset. If anyone has some thoughts on the issue (a geologist or an oceanographer, maybe?) please contact <b><a href="http://surfriderla.typepad.com"> Surfrider West L.A.</a></b> to help clarify the impact this jetty will have on Sunset.

Here's something: <b><a href="sepoct2005/index.htm">a new gallery of pics</b></a> is now up. Most of them were taken in early and mid-september and they were all shot at Sunset. Also included are some photos from the SunsetSurf.com party on Oct. 22. For instance, check this <b><a href="sepoct2005/pages/sunsetwinner2.htm">photo of the proud winner</b></a> of a new board

I was fortunate enough to attend the premiere of John Fortson's solo-performance play <b><a href="http://www.loveswell.com">Loveswell</a></b> this weekend. It explores a surfer's struggle to balance the demands of his marriage with his love for waves, but what is truly impressive about the play is how honestly and bravely he addresses this material. The typical stereotypes we associate both with surfers and with marriages are thrown out the window. Instead, Fortson insists on 100% authenticity in his approach. The result is an experience that raises all sorts of important questions about love, and even gives us a glimpse of the possibilities mother nature offers us in our search for a meaningful life.

For everyone who frequents our modest point break, <b><a href="party.asp">the 2005 SunsetSurf.com Party</a></b> will be on Saturday, October 22, 7pm to 11pm. This year's party will be held at EpoxyBox -- a new space at the intersection of Venice Blvd and Abbot Kinney. The venue will feature live music, food and drink, a screen to showcase surf video of Sunset, and a one-of-a-kind exhibition of surf-inspired art. Plus, one lucky person will win a brand new surfboard -- a 9’6” Anderson, Josh Farberow model, hand-painted by Thomas Lynch.

For surfer, John Fortson his most challenging wave turns out to be the girl he married. John explores the complexities of modern married life as a surfer in his solo performance, <b><a href="http://www.loveswell.com">Loveswell</a></b>, which will be playing at at Two Roads Theatre, 4348 Tujunga Avenue, Studio City, October 21 - November 27. Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM, Sundays at 3:00PM. Reservations: 818-342-4707.

On July 30, 2005 there will be a day of events to celebrate the memory and spirit of Will Rogers. Several different performers are coming, including Ted Robinson, Dave Thornbury, Ramon Becerra, Robert Basgall, Felix Lopez, Patti Mayer Olympic Level Dressage, Santa Monica Mounted Police, Drew Davis Band just to name a few. Also horse rental and pony rides. All takes place at Will Rogers State Park.

At long last, <b><a href="june2005/index.htm">a new gallery of 52 photos</b></a> is now posted for your viewing pleasure. Most of them were taken in Mid June. They were all shot at Sunset, but I tried to get a mixture of some from the steps and some from the point.

The Venice Centennial Surf Contest take place on July 9th, 6:30 am at the Venice Beach Breakwater where Windward Avenue meets the sea. Over 140 contestants will be competing in eight divisions, including some Sunset regulars. Awards ceremony following at the Main Venice Centennial Stage located on the Venice Boardwalk at Windward Avenue. Contest proceeds to benefit local ocean/water safety youth programs. Starts at 6:30 am and continues throughout the day. Entry Forms available at local area surf shops.