Justin Pyfrom's Blog, page 34

Getting Ready For NYCC & “Dreaming A Dream”

I can finally start saving up for my plans to making San Francisco my permanent home. In addition to it all, I will be able to start saving up for my writing career so I can properly hire people for editing, co-writing and many other things in an official capacity. This is really exciting for me because I can finally “spend money” to “make money”. But there’s something else I’m increasingly excited about. See, in a week, I will be in the Big Apple for one of my favorite conventions of all time: New York Comic Con.

Yep, I’m going to be engaging in another round of cosplay, parties, and friendship with the main purpose of creating more. Fun fact, I have created and maintained most of these convention friendships has come from NYCC and I’m planning to make more this year. I smile at the opportunity to make friends because…well…I’m a people person and I love the idea of making more friends. Plus, it wouldn’t hurt to establish more business connections. But, in the meantime, I do have some additional writing to handle…

See, I have more backstory to complete for my LGBT+ crime series before going back to editing my short stories before the year is up. With that being said, I’m deciding to postpone my second installment’s release so I can do everything properly and correctly. I have to remember that I will have to “spend money” to “make money”. Furthermore, it will allow me to save up even more money for traveling to conventions and sightseeing. It would also be nice to eventually be able to hire people to take the load off so I can focus on writing writing WRITING!!! lol

This week has been slow but impactful as I am continuing to work to further my goals so this is still a win for me. I mean, with writing, Netflixing, and training at this new job, I’m going to be in for a really long and fun ride until my next book is released and I’m so prepared for. ha ha!

Now, please, don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

“Can’t Change Who You Are”…

I’m still making a list of remaining friends I want to spin a light on for the next few weeks of my “We’re All In This Together” segments. But, while I was working on that, I was working on my writing projects which has been going pretty well. But, along with that, something interesting happened this week. Something that gave me pause. Something that made me smile.

I started my new job at MetroPCS this week. Well…I’m in training but, nonetheless, it was my first week. Meeting the team was met with some criticism on how I’m really helpful with customers and the fact that I like to take my time with them. Granted, I made my goal of moving ten boxes (phones) and got nothing but positive feedback from customers but the higher-ups weren’t a big fan of my friendly approach.

My main boss, on the other hand, let me in on a little piece of information. He told me that my patience is the EXACT reason why I was hired. The fact that I had Brand Ambassador experience meant that he can trust me to take care of a customer without treating them like a number. Said that he looks for someone like me in each one of his stores and he got lucky with me. “Can’t change that quality about you, Justin. It’s ingrained in you.”

Adding to that lovely talk, I was at the bar, again, and I was working on my LGBT+ Crime series (making fabulous headway, by the way) and I had a gentleman looking over my shoulder. See, there’s a reason why I write in cursive and tiny and it’s for that exact reason. Though he couldn’t read my work, the wolf-like hottie (he was a bit hairy and muscular) just ask me what I was writing. I answered a story. He got the picture that I wasn’t going to tell him much about the series after what he did but tried anyway:

Bloke: “Why do you write in a public place if you don’t people to read it?”

Me: *hands him the book* “Can you read it?”

Bloke: “Nope…”

Me: “Precisely. It’s safe to write in public because most people can’t read cursive, anyway. It’s my personal advantage.”

The conversation shifted to the wolf telling me that he, too, is a writer and was genuinely curious about my wordplay and writing process. That felt much better than a creeper hairy guy looking over my shoulder and being nosy. So, we spend the next hour or so talking about what our writing goals and endeavors before my cousin (my mentor) arrived. Hopefully, I get to see some of his work in the future…I probably should have given him my business card before I left him. Oh well…if it’s meant to be, I’ll see him, again, right?

Please, don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

Also, I have a lot of books to review and talk about you, guys, so be on the lookout for that in the coming weeks…that and a game I finished. I’m hoping to get through them all before the month is out.

A Conversation Among Like Minds

So, before, I get back to my “We’re All in This Together” segway, I have to say I met the most fascinating bloke at the bar for the second time. See, usually at the bar to write and drink while chatting with the bartenders to play catch up. I even talk to the bouncer as we’re both gamers (I’m a gaymer, he’s straight) and enjoy just talking about current events and various other topics. But, this gentleman was something else.

[image error]His name is Paul D’Avanzo and, you can probably tell by his name, he’s Italian. Absolutely handsome but it’s his mind that kept the conversation going. See, he’s a Ph. D student at Temple University where he does research in Quantitative Social Research, Infectious Diseases, and Public Health. Sounds cool, right? It gets better. He zeroes in to put a greater focus on the LGBT+ community as it’s not having a lot of information made available to them regarding this topic.

As we discussed this topic and the other woeful entry in our community, I became a little intrigued by his contribution and work ethics. He has a very strong belief and opinion of “our” stories being told by us as it would make more of an impact than someone else telling. Me, on the other hand, I found it warming and a bit progressive that someone outside of our community is enlightened enough to tell our stories but, in return, did agree that it would make more of an impact if we were to tell it.

After having that conversation, along with many others, it gave me an idea for a future project to explore in my life. It also gave me a little bit more clarity of what we are dealing with – both inside and out. See, I’ve read scholastic essays before in college but it was for video games. This time around it was medical and it was quite enjoyable; I didn’t completely understand it but I still liked it.

I suggest giving some of his manuscripts/essays a read if you are interested in LGBT Health, Education and Social Service. Here is the link to his work (fair warning, you need to create a login in order to read it; it’s free): https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Paul_Davanzo

Please, don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

Also, I have a lot of books to review and talk about you, guys, so be on the lookout for that in the coming weeks…that and a game I finished.

“Crabs In A Barrel” is a Real Bitch

I’m not completely done with the “We’re All In This Together” segments because I have way too many friends that have been making strides in their chosen path. However, I do want to talk about something interesting that has happened to me over the week and how coming to a gay bar (the only gay that I go to in Philadelphia) has helped me bounce back from it.

Okay, so allow me to restate the obvious: I’m a black man. Strike that, I’m a gay black man. Well…technically, I’m mixed with four distinctive ethnicities but I’m quick to tell people that I’m mostly black. This part is important because, while I was working a job, my “level of blackness” was called into question in the most insulting way that I have ever experienced in my life.

See, it’s pretty telling that I’m a nerd through and through. I mean, my twitter account describes as a Class A nerd and I take great pride in it. I’ve never been arrested. My Central High School diploma and Bachelor’s are some of my greatest accomplishments. I’m an avid gamer and reader. You guys already know that I love to write stories (just stink at the grammar section). I got to travel around the states, meet new people, learn many many many new things that I can teach future generations. And, because of all that, I had the pleasure of having the cruelest black man tell me that I’m the sorriest excuse for a black man because I don’t anything that a black man does. In other words, I don’t fit the stereotype and I shouldn’t call myself a black man. Worst yet, he proceeds to undermine every single of my accomplishments but expressing that “black people don’t do this/that” in the most hateful way possible. I mean, this guy took “Crabs In A Barrel” to a whole new level and he made sure that it got to me. And, you know what, it ALMOST worked.

I say almost because I walked into BoxerPHL and a pint with a random stranger, another black gay man. He saw that I was itching to talk about my day and gave me a sign to vent. After telling him what happened at work, the man shook his head and gave me a reminder and lesson:

“Because of everything that’s happened in this world, and to our people, we think that we don’t deserve to make advances in our life. So, when someone does, and in wonderful ways, they think it messes with the ‘new order’ and has to put in check. But, people seem to forget that history has shown us what we’re capable of and I wish people won’t lose sight of that.” (The conversation was longer but you get the point).

I couldn’t help to chuckle at that. Here I am, feeling sorry for myself and it took a complete stranger to remind me that I’m put on this earth for a reason. That I’m here to make advancements for future generations to piggyback on and to do the same. Screw that insufferable, uneducated, uninspiring wanker. He doesn’t get the right to strip me of all my pride and happiness just because he doesn’t have any in life. Now, I feel reinvigorated and ready to begin a new.

Please, don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

Also, I have a lot of books to review and talk about you, guys, so be on the lookout for that in the coming weeks…that and a game I finished.

We’re All In This Together Part 5

We’re on the fifth week of praise and recognition towards my closest mates who are making wonderful strides in their chosen field. So, just to bring you up to speed if you’ve forgotten:

Week 1: Authors

Week 2: Directors/Screenwriters

Week 3: Male Models & Cosplay

Week 4: Female Models & Cosplay

Now, let’s keep the momentum going by focusing on my friends in the music industry. 

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Let’s start off with Lost Puppy, a wonderful indie rock band based in Los Angeles, which my best mate is a vocalist for. They released their first album, Wash Your Hands Before You Steal My Heart, a few years ago with a second album in the work. Personally, Show & Tell is my favorite song thus far and can’t wait to see what else they produce. They play quite regularly in the area so I implore you to check them out as well as their website, Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.

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Next up is Andrew Worthy, an old friend from my college years. Many moons ago, he demonstrated his singing and dancing talents to me and others and something told me to keep an eye on him. Now, in 2018, this bloke has made so many wonderful songs that are great to listen. Check it out by visiting this link and his Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube page.

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Don Dooney isn’t in the limelight like my other two mates but his talents shouldn’t be ignored. His talents behind a guitar are something that shouldn’t be ignored and it wouldn’t surprise me if he decides to release an album. Maybe he gets enough pressure on his Instagram page.

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Finally, we end on my fellow Lancer (Central High School mascot), Pierre Nix who, like me, is part of the LGBT+ community. Honestly, I was late to the party when learning about his musical talents but better late than never. I love the soulful approach so go out his Instagram and giving his Facebook page a look, which based off a group he’s apart of.

Please check out my friends and don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

(P.S.) Sorry for the late post. My computer is nearing the end of its life cycle but I’m too stubborn to buy a new one.

We’re All In This Together Part 4

We’re on the third week of praise and recognition towards my closest mates who are progressing swimmingly in their field. So, just to bring you up to speed if you’ve forgotten:

Week 1: Authors

Week 2: Directors/Screenwriters

Week 3: Male Models & Cosplay

Now, we’re going to shift the focus from the males and all their manliness to the women and all their grace and elegances. Fair warning, I don’t know as many female cosplayers as I do males…well…at least any that are making strides.

[image error]First one up is RADCOSPLAY, a Denver-based cosplayer who can seriously rock a Cindy Aurum cosplay to perfection. I got to meet you at NYCC last year and instantly became a fan of hers. I got to see more of her this year since I’ll be working at NYCC, again, for my sixth year. I do implore you to check out her Facebook page and follow her on Instagram.

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Now, Jennifer McWilliams, I’ve got to know this beautiful woman for years – along with her other half. What sets her apart from the other mainstream cosplayers is exactly what she promotes: Body Praising. She calls herself an “Aspiring Plus Size Fashionista” and leaves up to that title as her outfits are on point. But, hey, don’t take my word for it, check out her Instagram, Twitter and, please, follow her on Patreon.

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Finally, my best friend (aka hag) in the world, Briana Bailey. Now, this sexy lady has been by my side from the longest time and is not only a model (when she feels like it) and a cosplayer (when she’s up for it) but also an exceptional fashion designer who has created outfits for many clients to werk. Even better, she’s ALWAYS looking for new clients and challenges. Of course, you can see for yourself by checking out her LinkedIn profile, website along with her Twitter.

Please check out my friends and don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

We’re All In This Together Part 3

The first week of this month went to the friends in my field, which you can read here. Last week, I dedicated to my screenwriters and directors, which can be read here. Let’s keep this month going by shining a lot of my cosplay and model friends that has been making strides in their profession. Now, I have waaaay too many to count because I go to a lot of conventions so I’m going break it up into two parts (this week, the guys, next week, the girls). So, shall we:

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This one is on my oldest cosplay buddies. Funny story, I took a picture of him a few years before I began working at his store as colleagues. He’s commonly known as Danny Lantern for an obvious reason (Danny Phantom and Green Lantern are his favorites) and his energy is contagious with a personality that makes him a welcoming friend. Check out his Patreon and Instagram page.

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Roger Rodriguez is a Puerto Rican/Venezuela gentleman who comes from humble beginnings to become a well-known fitness model who has appeared on commercial, television and, now, he’s in charge of his own fitness program as a way to give back to the community. So, between modeling and fitness training, Señor Roger has been a very busy man and, yet, maintain a heart of gold. Give his Facebook and Instagram a look when you get a chance.

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Another model of Latin descent but of the nerd variety. DavÍd Santiago is one of a kind bloke who understands the business of modeling and cosplay (waaaay too many to list here but Daredevil is my favorite) whiles maintaining great work ethics and [image error]morals. Added bonus, he is an avid supporter of the LGBT community; it is exactly why I have chosen him to be a model for my LGBT+ Crime Series. Check out his Facebook and Instagram a look for some wonderful eye candy.

[image error]Chris Riley is exactly a friend of mine but his work has caught my attention in a big way. He’s a photographer of very sexy models and cosplayers in a pinup style photoshoots. Even better, all the models are cosplaying pop culture icons ranging from tv shows to cartoons to comics. But don’t take my word for it, see for yourself by checking out his Patreon, Instagram, and Twitter. Fair warning, most of the pictures are NSFW.

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Like most of my cosplay buddies, I met Mark Washco at a convention (NYCC, to be exact) and instantly became friends with him. He’s a fitness model and trainer based in Florida with a simple but rapid approach to achieving wellness. A businessman, through and through, with a laundry list of achievements and testimonies under his belt. Always looking for new clients to turn into a better version of themselves, I suggest giving his Instagram, Facebook and his website a look.

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Mike Baaden is the “Papa Bear” of Cosplay. I mean, literally, this Aquaman is a family man who has mastered the art of dividing his attention, love, and affection between being a cosplayer, husband, and father. PLUS! Mike is SUPER approachable. Don’t let the muscle fool you; he’s a big ol’ teddy as long as you don’t get on his bad side. Aquaman is a common cosplay of choice for him but his Instagram showcases ALL of his cosplay variations so give it a look when you have the chance.

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I met Michael Figueroa through Facebook and Instagram before meeting him in person. The man is a total sweetheart that can rock a Chris Redfield cosplay thanks to his job as a fitness trainer. Like Baaden, he’s married and can properly divide his love and affection between both of his passion. Based in Philadelphia, this gentleman is always accepting new clients so might I suggest checking out his Facebook and Instagram page.

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Although I don’t this handsome bloke, personally (got to meet him for the first time two years ago), I have been following his progress in the comic book world for a good while and I always have a smile on my face. As a gay man, I always look to learn and grow with my comrades from the community and his bloke is one of the people that I would like to learn from in the near future. Maybe, if he can help me find an artist, I can fulfill his wish of creating a Class Comic series about him. Alas, you have to check out his Patreon, Instagram, and website.

Please check out my friends and don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

We’re All In This Together Part 2

Last week, I highlighted my circle of authors in the life that has shaped my views of my career path. To continue with the month of recognition and appreciation, I want to shine a light on another set of writers. This time around, I will be casting that light onto the screenwriters that I am blessed to have in my life – both personal and professional. So, let’s get this show on the road:

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When I was working my first year at NYCC (New York Comic Con), in 2012, I was introduced to a brilliant and caring mind of Bryan Ribeiro. Ever since our forged friendship, he’s completed three film projects, that he has also written, with a four one already in development. If you want to check out his credentials, check out his  or LinkedIn Profile

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Markus Graves and I have been friends the smallest amount of time but our friendship was quickly formed and strengthen due to our shared nerd-ism. He’s a multi-talented contributor to the industry but his desired field is directing, composing (he has quite the voice) and writing. There are literally too many things to list. Just, check out his stuff at his website.

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I know Greg Jones since high school; even mentor the young man during his freshman year. As of lately, this man has been storming the Star War community with his merry band of Jedis called Urban Jedi Knights. He does the scriptwriting for their shorts as well as direct them. Check out their YouTube and Instagram page.[image error]

Please check out my friends and don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

We’re All In This Together Part 1

So, this week’s blog post is going to be a little different from before. See, I may seem like a workaholic…well…actually I am a workaholic. A functioning workaholic but I’m also a good friend and a supportive one, too. I have a great number of friends that took the path of the arts like me and, like me, have – and, forevermore, will –  dedicated their lives to the craft. It is because of that I am going to dedicate this month to highlighting them. This week, I’m going to be starting with the writers:

[image error]Dylan Birtolo is “a fiction writer, a game designer, a computer programmer, a hardcore gamer, and a professional sword swinger.” Yes, I know that’s a mouthful but he has earned every title. I met the bloke at the Origin Game Fair three years and I’ve been hooked on his Sheynan Trilogy series from the start. He has worked on numerous other titles, too, so check out his site: http://www.dylanbirtolo.com/

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I have also had the pleasure of being Dylan’s better half, Jaym Gates. A truly marvelous science fiction writer with the same energy and wit as me and her silly counterpart. Even better, her genius matches her wit and, moreover, the books are beautifully written and a complete and utter masterpiece. Don’t believe me…check it out for yourself on her website: http://jaymgates.com/

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Kreshendo is one of my closest mates from high school who I had the privilege of graduating with. (266 for life!!!) Poetry is this man’s specialty and he knows how to bring out the rawest emotions out of his readers with precise and brilliant wordplay while exploring both universal and personal themes. If poetry is more your jam, might I suggest going to his website to get a good read: http://www.iamkreshendo.com/[image error]

Switching from high school to college, allow me to introduce you to another poet, Dave Matthes. Now, what makes his poetry so unique? The saucy honesty about his inner demons and personal journey which is something many of his readers find refreshing. But, hey, don’t take my word for it, check out his site: https://davematthes.org/

[image error]Michael Zummo is the first writer from dwells in both of my community (LGBT and science fiction) and, because of it, got me reading a fantastic series revolving around the theme of identity and family (among other things). I got meet his bloke in Chicago at a comic book convention and been friends ever since. It also doesn’t hurt that he’s in the field of Game Design, like me. I implore you to check out his site: http://dmokrevival.com/

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Finally, allow me to introduce you to the infamous pop psychologist, Travis Langley. He specializes in psychology (obviously) but fine tunes it towards various pop media such as Game of Thrones, Batman, Supernatural, Westworld. I am a really big fan of his work and always wait in anticipation for his next release. Check out his website to see his full list (trust me, there’s a lot): https://www.amazon.com/Travis-Langley...

Please check out my friends and don’t forget to follow me on my social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Goodreads) which are on the right side of my web page. Also, I do love hearing suggestions of what books to read outside of my norm (Science fiction and fantasy) as I am a part of the Goodreads’ reading challenge for 2018.

Interview with Dave Matthes

Buddy of mine was interviewed and didn’t know.

Musings of a Wench

I figured for my first interview questionnaire, I ought to begin with a bang. 

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