I am very disappointed that you chose not to take me seriously and to post my email in a mocking way.
The origin of "Piker" as a derogatory word stems from the influx of poor Missouri migrants from Pike County into California during the gold rush of the 1849. They were just trying to provide a better life for their families and were met with bigotry and derision.
While I have dedicated my life to rehabiliting the Piker name, you sit in California, no less the birth place of Piker ridicule and humiliation, and wallow in your self-loathing. I hope you choke on it.
Sincerely,
Johny Piker
Thursday, March 13, 2003
TO A SELF-LOATHING PIKER
Wednesday, March 12, 2003
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY
I have two measly days of employment left. I shouldn't complain though. Production ended when we filmed the sixth and final episode of the run on Friday night. The stellar wrap party was held in the Foundation Room at the House of Blues on Sunday night and featured an open bar from 7 to 11. Plus, I received a gift in the form of an extra week of work to close down the office. The entire six-week gig was a blessing, as I had not held a full-time job in a year. I've been pretty low-key about my work experience, purposely withholding the name of show to protect the innocent. I will now put you all out of your misery and end the suspense. The television show I am currently working on... at least for two more days... a sitcom... is... "Watching Ellie". A press release announced today that the show will be relaunched on April 15th. Its normal time slot will be Tuesdays at 9:30 on NBC, following "Frasier." In support of me and my career, all I ask is that you tune in once, and only keep watching if you like the show. I think it's pretty funny, but then again, I've been seeing it from the inside out, including rehearsals and live in front of a studio audience, and therefore I don't have much distance or perspective. However, Julia Loius-Dreyfus is undeniably one of the funniest and most talented ladies around. She's Ellie, and she alone is worth watching.
I have two measly days of employment left. I shouldn't complain though. Production ended when we filmed the sixth and final episode of the run on Friday night. The stellar wrap party was held in the Foundation Room at the House of Blues on Sunday night and featured an open bar from 7 to 11. Plus, I received a gift in the form of an extra week of work to close down the office. The entire six-week gig was a blessing, as I had not held a full-time job in a year. I've been pretty low-key about my work experience, purposely withholding the name of show to protect the innocent. I will now put you all out of your misery and end the suspense. The television show I am currently working on... at least for two more days... a sitcom... is... "Watching Ellie". A press release announced today that the show will be relaunched on April 15th. Its normal time slot will be Tuesdays at 9:30 on NBC, following "Frasier." In support of me and my career, all I ask is that you tune in once, and only keep watching if you like the show. I think it's pretty funny, but then again, I've been seeing it from the inside out, including rehearsals and live in front of a studio audience, and therefore I don't have much distance or perspective. However, Julia Loius-Dreyfus is undeniably one of the funniest and most talented ladies around. She's Ellie, and she alone is worth watching.
DAYDREAM BELIEVER
One of my all-time favorite short stories, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" now looks like it finally has a strong chance of being remade. Producer Samuel Goldwyn Jr. beat New Line Cinema in a court battle to win back the film rights and quickly set up the project at Paramount, where it's likely that Steven Spielberg will direct Jim Carrey in the title role. I never saw the 1947 original, in which Danny Kaye played Walter Mitty, but this pair doing this story is exciting. It would mark the first collaboration between Spielberg and Carrey and, if all goes well, the movie should break the bank and go down as one of the great ones. Hey, a guy can dream, can't he?
One of my all-time favorite short stories, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" now looks like it finally has a strong chance of being remade. Producer Samuel Goldwyn Jr. beat New Line Cinema in a court battle to win back the film rights and quickly set up the project at Paramount, where it's likely that Steven Spielberg will direct Jim Carrey in the title role. I never saw the 1947 original, in which Danny Kaye played Walter Mitty, but this pair doing this story is exciting. It would mark the first collaboration between Spielberg and Carrey and, if all goes well, the movie should break the bank and go down as one of the great ones. Hey, a guy can dream, can't he?
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
THIS IS SPORTSCENTER, THIS IS BRILLIANT
I stumbled upon one of the greatest uses of the internet tonight. For quite some time, I've been wishing I had a tape consisting of all the ESPN commercials that have been made over the years. Finally, my pack-rat prayers have been answered. I don't know how long it's been up and running, but right there on the ESPN site, you'll find a video archive of almost a hundred hilarious "This Is SportsCenter" spots. Advertising comedy at its finest.
I stumbled upon one of the greatest uses of the internet tonight. For quite some time, I've been wishing I had a tape consisting of all the ESPN commercials that have been made over the years. Finally, my pack-rat prayers have been answered. I don't know how long it's been up and running, but right there on the ESPN site, you'll find a video archive of almost a hundred hilarious "This Is SportsCenter" spots. Advertising comedy at its finest.
TALKIN' TV
For the twentieth year in a row, The Museum of Television and Radio is holding their William S. Paley Television Festival. During the two-week period, the MoTaR puts on these great panel discussions, where they gather the writers, producers, and cast of a show for a screening and Q & A. Last night, that gorgeous TV critic at Salon must have worn her sexy boots and smooth-talked her way into a packed house at the DGA for "24", because she wrote about the event today. If you want to read about it, come with me, I'll show you where it is...
For the twentieth year in a row, The Museum of Television and Radio is holding their William S. Paley Television Festival. During the two-week period, the MoTaR puts on these great panel discussions, where they gather the writers, producers, and cast of a show for a screening and Q & A. Last night, that gorgeous TV critic at Salon must have worn her sexy boots and smooth-talked her way into a packed house at the DGA for "24", because she wrote about the event today. If you want to read about it, come with me, I'll show you where it is...
STRONG ARM TACTICS: TAKE TWO
HBO and the producers of "The Sopranos" are using some muscle on their main muscle-man. The premium cable network fired back at James Gandolfini today, filing a $100 million countersuit against the actor. They claim the nine figure amount represents their potential loss if Gandolfini succeeds in sabotaging the fifth season of the show. Clearly, with both sides going to the mattresses, this feud could get ugly. Hopefully, the heads of the families can have a sit-down and settle this war out of court. Best case scenario finds the off-screen conflict influencing the subtext of the show and adding another juicy layer of on-screen tension.
HBO and the producers of "The Sopranos" are using some muscle on their main muscle-man. The premium cable network fired back at James Gandolfini today, filing a $100 million countersuit against the actor. They claim the nine figure amount represents their potential loss if Gandolfini succeeds in sabotaging the fifth season of the show. Clearly, with both sides going to the mattresses, this feud could get ugly. Hopefully, the heads of the families can have a sit-down and settle this war out of court. Best case scenario finds the off-screen conflict influencing the subtext of the show and adding another juicy layer of on-screen tension.
Monday, March 10, 2003
"THE ELECTRIC KOOL AID ACID TEST ON TOFU"
I'm not sure I can find anyone to argue against the notion that Woody Harrelson is an eccentric. Now we have a documentary film to serve as proof. "Go Further" details Harrelson's 1,700 mile journey by hempseed oil-fueled bus from Seattle to Santa Barbara in the spring of 2001. During the THC trek, Harrelson spoke at several colleges on a range of environmental issues and brought along a support staff of stoners. In fact, Harrelson seems to play second fiddle to his elevated entourage in "Go Further."
One of the devotees on the bus is a former co-worker and acquiantence of mine named Steve Clark. Apparently, Clark eventually and inevitably takes a starring role in the dope documentary. If my experiences with him are any indication, this should prove to be a wilder ride than Mr. Toad's. Of the oodles of outrageous things I've heard him utter, the most quotable line remains: "Are you kidding? I'm doing great. A year ago, I came to town with a Bart Simpson backpack and a hit of acid. Now I have two cats and some furniture." Go as far as you need to go to see "Go Further."
I'm not sure I can find anyone to argue against the notion that Woody Harrelson is an eccentric. Now we have a documentary film to serve as proof. "Go Further" details Harrelson's 1,700 mile journey by hempseed oil-fueled bus from Seattle to Santa Barbara in the spring of 2001. During the THC trek, Harrelson spoke at several colleges on a range of environmental issues and brought along a support staff of stoners. In fact, Harrelson seems to play second fiddle to his elevated entourage in "Go Further."
One of the devotees on the bus is a former co-worker and acquiantence of mine named Steve Clark. Apparently, Clark eventually and inevitably takes a starring role in the dope documentary. If my experiences with him are any indication, this should prove to be a wilder ride than Mr. Toad's. Of the oodles of outrageous things I've heard him utter, the most quotable line remains: "Are you kidding? I'm doing great. A year ago, I came to town with a Bart Simpson backpack and a hit of acid. Now I have two cats and some furniture." Go as far as you need to go to see "Go Further."
Friday, March 07, 2003
SAFETY DANCE
For you kids going out to party this weekend, take a jacket in case you get cold, always use protection, and remember not to overdose.
For you kids going out to party this weekend, take a jacket in case you get cold, always use protection, and remember not to overdose.
STRONG ARM TACTICS
James Gandolfini is suing HBO in an effort to get a raise. It seems out of character to me. I mean, Tony Soprano wouldn't resort to a lawsuit, he would take matters into his own hands. This scares me though. I really need to see one last season of "The Sopranos." Unlike many critics, both professional and casual, I thought this past season was excellent. Will Tony and Carmela really get a divorce? Please, James and HBO, settle this thing amicably and cap this great show off with a season for the ages.
James Gandolfini is suing HBO in an effort to get a raise. It seems out of character to me. I mean, Tony Soprano wouldn't resort to a lawsuit, he would take matters into his own hands. This scares me though. I really need to see one last season of "The Sopranos." Unlike many critics, both professional and casual, I thought this past season was excellent. Will Tony and Carmela really get a divorce? Please, James and HBO, settle this thing amicably and cap this great show off with a season for the ages.
I'M A PIKER, YOU'RE A PIKER
Wouldn't ya like to be a Piker too?
Wouldn't ya like to be a Piker too?
Hello fellow Piker. My name is Johny Piker. I was very excited to stumble across you blog as I am conducting a genealogical study on the Piker family clan. Maybe you know this already, but the name Piker comes from Pike, a Native American tribe from Eastern Missouri (currently Pike county) and our ancestors were a mix of Pike tribe members and French colonialists who settled in the area prior to the Louisianna Purchase.
I am writing you because you might be a long lost Piker clan member and would therefore be very important to my work.
Please call or email me as I am very anxious to speak with you. Hopefully, we can reconnect you with your roots.
Sincerely,
Johny Piker
Thursday, March 06, 2003
LAST STOP ON THE TOUR
Folks, if you could bear with me just a little longer... I know it's been a long day, but if you'll follow me once more into the Salon, we have a fine selection of lovely desserts, some port wine, and an outstanding review of the "Matisse Picasso" exhibit at the MoMA in NYC that actually inspires me to go see some art. Tell me, doesn't that self-portrait of Matisse look a lot like Ken Layne?
Folks, if you could bear with me just a little longer... I know it's been a long day, but if you'll follow me once more into the Salon, we have a fine selection of lovely desserts, some port wine, and an outstanding review of the "Matisse Picasso" exhibit at the MoMA in NYC that actually inspires me to go see some art. Tell me, doesn't that self-portrait of Matisse look a lot like Ken Layne?
O YEAH
One of my favorite filmmakers is making another comedy. David O. Russell, director of "Spanking the Monkey," "Flirting With Disaster," and "Three Kings," is at it again. This time he's taking on existentialism in a movie tentatively titled "I Love Huckabee's". Check out that cast!
One of my favorite filmmakers is making another comedy. David O. Russell, director of "Spanking the Monkey," "Flirting With Disaster," and "Three Kings," is at it again. This time he's taking on existentialism in a movie tentatively titled "I Love Huckabee's". Check out that cast!
PUT A SPELL ON ME
Every year I get hooked after watching about a minute and a half of the Scipps Howard National Spelling Bee. I love the poise and personality some of the kids show. The one spelling bee I remember participating in, I got ousted on the word "beautiful," after failing to include the "a." Needless to say, I never spelled it wrong again. When I first heard about the documentary "Spellbound," which follows eight kids on their quest to make it to the national finals, I was really amped to see it. Then I forgot about it. Today I was reminded of it again by David Poland in his Oscar Column for Movie City News. Of course, now I'm beyond amped -- I'm stoked to see it.
Every year I get hooked after watching about a minute and a half of the Scipps Howard National Spelling Bee. I love the poise and personality some of the kids show. The one spelling bee I remember participating in, I got ousted on the word "beautiful," after failing to include the "a." Needless to say, I never spelled it wrong again. When I first heard about the documentary "Spellbound," which follows eight kids on their quest to make it to the national finals, I was really amped to see it. Then I forgot about it. Today I was reminded of it again by David Poland in his Oscar Column for Movie City News. Of course, now I'm beyond amped -- I'm stoked to see it.
DEFINE "CELEBRITY"
Piker's favorite TV critic braved the "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!" marathon and lived to write about it. Once again, please follow me into the Salon. Watch your step and keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.
Piker's favorite TV critic braved the "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!" marathon and lived to write about it. Once again, please follow me into the Salon. Watch your step and keep your arms and legs inside the vehicle at all times.
AIR YABOS
It's rush week for the Mile High Club. Some doubted it would ever happen, but Hooters Air has taken flight, "servicing" a clientele made up mostly of southern gentlemen golfers on their maiden voyage from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach. Hookers Air can't be far behind.
It's rush week for the Mile High Club. Some doubted it would ever happen, but Hooters Air has taken flight, "servicing" a clientele made up mostly of southern gentlemen golfers on their maiden voyage from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach. Hookers Air can't be far behind.
Wednesday, March 05, 2003
CLUTCH CARGO GIG
HBO is back in the Jack Black business. The premium channel continues to get in bed with the most talented people around. You would think that somewhere somehow another network would take a cue from Home Box Office and offer complete creative freedom to showrunners and writers with vision.
Jack Black is one of the funniest guys around, and now he's really busy too. JB is teaming with Will Ferrell on a film comedy for New Line Cinema, which besides being my occassional employer is also the studio producing the Tenacious D project. If that weren't enough, JB is also co-starring with Ben Stiller in "Envy", a big summer movie directed by Barry Levinson, and "The School of Rock" for "Dazed and Confused" helmer Richard Linklater, which will be coming out in the fall.
My only fear is that with all of these projects scattered around town, Jack Black will become overexposed to the public at large. However, on a personal level, I'm not too concerned because I think he's hysterical and I'll see just about anything he's in. The more JB the merrier.
HBO is back in the Jack Black business. The premium channel continues to get in bed with the most talented people around. You would think that somewhere somehow another network would take a cue from Home Box Office and offer complete creative freedom to showrunners and writers with vision.
Jack Black is one of the funniest guys around, and now he's really busy too. JB is teaming with Will Ferrell on a film comedy for New Line Cinema, which besides being my occassional employer is also the studio producing the Tenacious D project. If that weren't enough, JB is also co-starring with Ben Stiller in "Envy", a big summer movie directed by Barry Levinson, and "The School of Rock" for "Dazed and Confused" helmer Richard Linklater, which will be coming out in the fall.
My only fear is that with all of these projects scattered around town, Jack Black will become overexposed to the public at large. However, on a personal level, I'm not too concerned because I think he's hysterical and I'll see just about anything he's in. The more JB the merrier.
Tuesday, March 04, 2003
TORO, KOBE, AND THE DAVER
I had one of the best meals of my life last night with one of my best friends in the whole wide world. D-Laz was in town for business and treated me to a night at Matsuhisa, Nobu's original restaurant. It was surprisingly easy to get a reservation. Apparently, Mondays are the way to go if you just want to eat the delicious food and not concern yourself with the star-studded crowd. We ate five mouth-watering courses of delicacies -- Toro Tartare, Kobe Beef, Rock Schimp, Scallops, and Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalepeno -- and drank cold sake. I felt like a king.
The Daver and his lovely wife Meg have one of those adorable brand-new babies. Tell me this kid isn't cute. Go ahead. I dare you.
I had one of the best meals of my life last night with one of my best friends in the whole wide world. D-Laz was in town for business and treated me to a night at Matsuhisa, Nobu's original restaurant. It was surprisingly easy to get a reservation. Apparently, Mondays are the way to go if you just want to eat the delicious food and not concern yourself with the star-studded crowd. We ate five mouth-watering courses of delicacies -- Toro Tartare, Kobe Beef, Rock Schimp, Scallops, and Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalepeno -- and drank cold sake. I felt like a king.
The Daver and his lovely wife Meg have one of those adorable brand-new babies. Tell me this kid isn't cute. Go ahead. I dare you.
TV'S BEST
Six Feet Under is back to take its rightful place at the apex of television. I've heard a lot of grumbling that people weren't so keen on the season premiere. I thought it was an excellent episode that expertly lays the groundwork for what I'm sure will be another phenomenal season. I'd like to think that I have some insight into the show, but for a true in-depth take on the pride of TV, kindly make your way into the Salon.
Six Feet Under is back to take its rightful place at the apex of television. I've heard a lot of grumbling that people weren't so keen on the season premiere. I thought it was an excellent episode that expertly lays the groundwork for what I'm sure will be another phenomenal season. I'd like to think that I have some insight into the show, but for a true in-depth take on the pride of TV, kindly make your way into the Salon.
GOING TO LANGERADO?
Langerado, the music festival taking its name from one of my screen monikers, put on by my brother's best friend, born out of a company they formed together called South Florida Jams, is going off this weekend. The list of bands reads like a who's who of the jamband world and the event is sure to be something that South Florida has never experienced before. I'm proud of my brother and his best friend for believing in something and building a scene in true grassroots tradition. Kudos.
Langerado, the music festival taking its name from one of my screen monikers, put on by my brother's best friend, born out of a company they formed together called South Florida Jams, is going off this weekend. The list of bands reads like a who's who of the jamband world and the event is sure to be something that South Florida has never experienced before. I'm proud of my brother and his best friend for believing in something and building a scene in true grassroots tradition. Kudos.
