Seek and Report

Before Michael Mann's Public Enemies, There Was Crime Story

2009-07-19T22:20:00.006-04:00

On September 18th, 1986 following Miami Vice, a 2 hour pilot would introduce Del Shannon, Dennis Farina, and the coolness of 1963 to an eleven year old kid.

Season One Intro (Chicago)

Season Two Intro (Vegas)

Before Mad Men, Lt. Mike Torello (Dennis Farina) was kickin' ass and takin' names while Ray Luca (Anthony Dennison) was just plain kickin' ass. Produced by Michael Mann after his success with Miami Vice, Crime Story first took place in the streets of Chicago, later moving to Las Vegas, both highly stylized and were as much characters of the show as the rest of the cast.

Chicago Department Store Robbery (wait for the background music)

Guest appearances included David Caruso, Julia Roberts, Kevin Spacey, Deborah Harry, Gary Sinise, Ving Rhames, Christian Slater, Stanley Tucci, David Hyde Pierce, Michael Madsen & Andrew Dice Clay. The character of Ray Luca (Anthony Denison) was based on Chicago mobster Tony "The Ant" Spilotro, who also inspired Joe Pesci's character of Nicky Santoro in "Casino". In addition, Andrew "Dice" Clay's character, Max Goldman and Robert DeNiro's character of Sam "Ace" Rothstien in "Casino" are both based on Spilotro's partner, Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal.

Opening scene season One

Unfortunately the show was bounced between time slots on Friday and Tuesday evenings, unable to find a steady audience and was cancelled after only 2 seasons.

On a side note, Del Shannon's Runaway is on rotation on the ipod.

Introducing Something New...

2009-06-22T21:09:00.008-04:00

I never thought of myself as a writer. I still don't consider myself one. I like to think of myself as an informer, as a collector, and appreciator. There are plenty of blogs for guys to read and explore, but just a handful that go above and beyond. They excel at what they do and should be proud of the service they provide. I consider myself fortunate to have been accepted by a small group of them.

Even though I may not post very often, I try to post original and fresh topics that I am passionate about. I enjoy the process of constructing and researching for my blog and continue to find interesting things through out the web as well as from my life. That being said, I have created an additional place for me to share those things those things with you. Please allow me to introduce File Under "C".

As the name states, everything will be inspired by things that can be filed by the letter "C". I came to the realization that the things I want, desire, covet, & grew up with all begin with that simple letter. Cars, clothes, comic books, chicks (not P.C. nor extremely accurate, lets just call it poetic license) are just some of the subject matter. With each set of posts I will try and create a story or at least a common thread. When possible I will also give pertinent information regarding each photo.

I hope you enjoy viewing as much as I will. Your comments and feedback are always welcome and appreciated.

Josh

Did You Remember Your Umbrella?

2009-06-11T18:54:00.017-04:00

With the current trend in weather (rain, rain, & more rain) I found myself thinking about umbrellas. They are what drive me most batty when the sun decides to take a break. Carrying one, bobbing and weaving others in the streets, remembering to take mine with me when I get out of a cab or the subway, etc. etc.

Many have tried to design the coolest, smallest, easiest to open or close but none have really figured it out...they are still awkward little things.

However, every once in a while, amongst the little old lady chasing hers down the street in the wind or the "Sex in the City" wannabe on 23rd street trying to keep hers from flying away, there is that one person who makes the use of an umbrella look effortless.

A little something more recent from our friends at Street Etiquette.

Boneville Salt Flats 1953, '54 & As Seen In Top Gear

2009-06-05T20:06:00.021-04:00

Going to let the photos speak for themselves & the guys from Top Gear do the talking...

Bonneville Salt Flats:

1955 - 1957 Ford Thunderbird

2009-06-02T22:15:00.013-04:00

Sinatra had one, Bing had one, the "mysterious blonde" in American Graffiti had one, & my father had one when I was a kid. No matter where we went, people would stop us...men, women, young, old...didn't matter.

as found in Edmunds

If Chevrolet hadn't introduced the 1953 Corvette it's likely that Ford never would have felt compelled to develop the Thunderbird in response. But though the T-Bird was a response to it, Ford's two-seater was a distinctly different machine from GM's plastic-bodied sports car.

First of all, the Thunderbird's body, like that of all other Fords, was made of steel. Second, the Thunderbird was available solely with a V8 engine unlike the Corvette which started life with a straight six and only added the V8 as an option for 1955. And third, the Thunderbird wasn't trying very hard to pretend it was a sports car.

The Thunderbird went on sale October 22, 1954, and quickly overwhelmed the Corvette in sales volume. Ford had thought it would sell about 10,000 examples that first year, but found itself unable to keep up with demand and eventually knocked out 16,155 examples during the debut model year (production ran deep into September of '55 when the 1956 model Fords were already in showrooms). That was more than five times the number of Corvettes Chevrolet built that year — and all this despite a price tag that started at $2,695 but could run easily past $3,800 with options.

This video was just too entertaining not to post...some parts may be considered inappropriate today in some circles...in my opinion it was just a simpler time. Let me know what you think...

My Memorial Day & A Boeing CH-46 Sea Knight

2009-05-27T12:22:00.010-04:00

Took my 5 year old nephew to a Marine helicopter raid demonstration this weekend. It was a worthwhile break from all the barbecue's and a great way to meet some Marines both active and retired and show some respect. Below are some photos and videos from the event.

Please excuse the shaky video.

Frederic Remington

2009-05-21T09:45:00.020-04:00

I can still remember the first time I saw it. The Bronco Buster. I was only a kid, but something about that sculpture mesmerized me. My dad had received a copy as a gift and thus began my appreciation for Mr. Remington. Years later I would get out of the elevator at the Ralph Lauren corporate offices on Madison Avenue and there it was, a Frederic Remington statue.

There is no one as influential at capturing the imagery of the Old West other than Frederic Remington.

Born 1861 in Canton, NY, he attended Yale studying Fine Art but did not graduate. He would move west for a short period of time only to return back east to Brooklyn then New Rochelle where he would spend the remainder of his life.

Remington found a career as an artist only after trying his hand a few times as a rancher. His numerous attempts failed and in1886 Harper's Weekly sent him to Arizona to cover the first of many important moments in U.S. history, the U.S. governments war against Geronimo.

1895 would find Remington attempting his first venture in sculpture. The Bronco Buster was born. Tiffany's would sell bronze copies and additional pieces would follow.

His career included forging a life long relationship with a young Teddy Roosevelt, being published in Colliers, Harper's, Cosmopolitan, & the New York Journal, as well as writing numerous novels. Frederic Remington passed away in December of 1909.

It was extremely difficult to choose which pieces to post, all of them are incredible.

"Rambo Lambo" - The LM002

2009-05-13T02:27:00.012-04:00

For some reason this bad boy has been long forgotten. If it weren't for Lamborghini's vision we may have not had the Porsche Cayenne, the Range Rover Sport, or any other SUV designed with motoring in mind.

The military always gets the coolest toys first. Case in point, the Lamborghini LM002, or as the prototype was dubbed..."The Cheetah". In 1977 the U.S. military became the proud owner of said vehicle and as the story goes, that same year they blew it up.

Jump to 1986 and the first LM002 was produced. Just over 300 were produced between 1986 and 1993 (the actual number varies from 301 - 328), all with the 12 cylinder, 450 bhp, 5 speed manual transmission & a top speed of nearly 120 mph. The fuel tank held 76 gallons of gas (that's 12 more than Arnold's Hummer H1). It came with an Italian leather interior, power windows, A/C, and roof mounted stereo. The tires were custom run-flats from Pirrelli.

Muammar al-Qaddafi ordered 100 for his army. His had a bullet proof body.

1963 Corvette Sting Ray

2009-05-07T13:42:00.007-04:00

I'm a car guy. I Appreciate every detail...the lines, the sounds, the history. Driving is my escape. Whenever I need to clear my head, just put me behind the wheel. If the top can go down and there's a stick shift even better.

Whenever someone asks me what my "number one pick" is, there is no hesitation. A 1963 Corvette Sting Ray Split Window in Black. Don't get me wrong, there are other Vette's that I desire, plenty as a matter of fact, but the '63 is the most important (in my opinion).

First thing is the name. Sting Ray was introduced with this model year. It was 2 words until '68. This was also the first year for a hardtop, pop-up headlights, leather interior, and most significantly...the split rear window. Unfortunately safety and practicality won over design aesthetic and the next model year the split window was no more.

Today these are extremely difficult to find. Some states outlawed the split rear window leading some owners to remove the bar. If they only knew now...kind of like someones mom throwing out their comic books.

My Willis & Geiger Backpack

2009-05-06T13:46:00.013-04:00

Getting ready for a trip next week means pulling out the luggage in order to pack. As usual, it also means I get to use my Willis & Geiger backpack. This carry all has been through everything. From multiple moves to numerous travels and only gets better after each use.

After seeing their catalog about 15 years ago I immediately began throwing hints to those closest to me that "I must have it". Needless to say the step mom came through and low and behold I was a proud owner of the coolest backpack ever! I have had strangers and friends offer to buy it from me over the years and when the company ceased to exist in 1999 the offers only grew. At this point, nothing will come between me and my backpack.

I was able to find some catalog shots online...

Big Wheels, Hammocks and Ralph's Ices

2009-04-22T13:22:00.012-04:00

This past weekends weather made me think about three things...Big Wheel's, Hammocks, and Ralph's Ices. There are always things we think about when the weather gets warm...no need for a jacket, bring out the short sleeve polo's, put the top down on the car, hit the park, go for brunch somewhere you can sit outside...I mean we all have our "go to" things when the weatherman brings us good news. However, what if you could choose only 3 things. Now, I'm not a fan of "what ifs", especially when coming from the girlfriend or even worse, job interviews, but lets stop, think, and really think. What are your three? Well, mine are Big Wheel's, Hammocks and Ralph's Ices.

When I was a kid, the coolest thing to have was the Big Wheel. For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, imagine a tricycle made of hard plastic with fat rear tires and an overly large front tire. They came in all different themes, from Cartoon characters to TV shows (the CHiPs one was the coolest...it had a handbrake. If you knew how you could do burnouts). Mine was green and black and had this little yellow speaker box with a button which you pressed to make it roar like a lion. There was nothing like opening the garage door, feeling the sun hit you in the face and tearing outta there like you were the fastest thing on three wheels.

When I got a little older I experienced my first hammock. That was it. Forget lounge chairs with all their unfolding and positioning, just hop in and relax. Towels? On the hard ground? Please. I'll take a hammock over those any day. Unfortunately, I live in an apartment and the idea of putting a hammock in is not very practical. So, I've been working my buddy to put one in his backyard for when I visit. I'll keep you posted on the results. When he is ready, or if you are currently looking for one, I suggest Pawley's Island Hammock down in Greenville,NC. They've been making hammocks here in the U.S. since 1889.

Last, but certainly not least is Ralph's Ices. As far as I know almost everyone has had Italian ices. Most of us in New York City have their "ices" from the all famous Marino's. It can be found in either the little yellow cup you eat from with a flat wooden spoon or more frequently from local pizza shops in a paper cup. There are others like Lemon Ice King of Corona or maybe even Rita's, but nothing compares to Ralph's. With more flavors than Baskin Robins, and lines equal to those at opening day at Yankee Stadium, nothing cools you down like a Vanilla Chip ice. In my neighborhood they had a truck, kind of like Mr Softee or Good Humor, instead of that constant bell dinging the Ralph's truck would play local radio stations...much cooler. You could hear that truck coming a mile away. I think it was the only thing that could get me off my Big Wheel (or hammock).

Thanks for listening. Now if this rain can get out of here....

It's my dad's birthday...

2009-04-20T12:06:00.009-04:00

It's my dad's birthday today. I began thinking about all the things he's taught me over the years. Here are just a few...

Cars. From as early as I can remember, there was almost never a discussion that didn't include cars. Whether talking about his first...a 1965 Olds 442 convertible or the canny ability of naming the make, model and year of a classic by the smallest detail such as a piece of a tail light or door handle.

Whenever we were in the car on our way anywhere, he would always narrate the route we were taking as well as other possible ways to our destination. I've later come to realize that his sense of direction is as poor as mine.

When I was 15 yrs old he bought a 1956 Ford Thunderbird. It was "Ford Club Green" with a white hardtop and Continental kit. At the time I had never seen one before and thought it was one of the coolest cars I had ever seen. He would enter it into car shows and take home awards. These events were an education in the appreciation of the automobile. This is also when I obtained my love for Corvettes (specifically a 1963 split window).

He also taught me how to drive a stick shift. In a parking garage in a car that had a broken tachometer and speedometer. The gauges broke during a snow storm and hadn't been repaired yet. It was a brand new Mitsubishi 300GT and I was petrified. He has a rule that still stands today..."you can drive any car I own, just bring it back fueled and clean...and don't be stupid. Cars can be replaced but people cannot". Lets just say that rule enabled me to drive his Jag XJS and Corvette convertible on many a road trip.

College. When it came time to go to college I was told no matter what you are going away for your freshman year. I did. He took me to go visit my first choice in Boston. However, we didn't book a hotel prior and when we got there couldn't find a room anywhere. Turned out it was the Boston Marathon that weekend and there wasn't a room in the entire city. We took a nap in the car and drove back the same day.

After a few attempts at a few schools I made the decision to not continue my education. Rather than freak out and threaten to disown me, he backed my decision but gave a few parameters. The biggest was i wasn't going to "live off him". He didn't want me to become a "bum", which I thought I shouldn't be living on the streets. He then went to the video store, sat me down and had me watch Frank Sinatra in Come Blow Your Horn. I highly recommend it.

How to dress properly. My Bar-Mitzvah suit came from Barneys. Not the one everyone knows today uptown on Madison Avenue, but the original, downtown, on 17th and Seventh. I learned the importance of a tailor, how to match a tie to a shirt and a shirt to a suit. How to tie that tie. Cuff or no cuff. Where my pants should break on my shoe. Collar stays to him are like no wire hangers to Joan Crawford.

He was wearing jeans with sport jackets before I was even born. He was wearing Stan Smiths while Stan Smith was still playing tennis. Wore the same style of Cole Haan driving shoes till the cancelled the style a few years back. Denim shirts with REAL pearl buttons. His original LV attache. The mans got style.

Now, don't get me wrong. There have been both ups and downs over the years. Quite a few actually. I guess as one gets older the downs aren't as important as the ups. Plus, he's always tried to ensure I learn from each and every mistake he's ever made, but its his birthday and you're not gonna hear about those...

Like I said, these are just a few.

Happy Birthday Dad. Thanks for all the gifts you've given me.

If only I had a dog...

2009-04-19T18:05:00.008-04:00

This may not be the first thing one would think to use carbon fiber for, but hey, why not? It was designed by bike designer Sky Yaeger, who's been designing bikes for 37 years. Apparently, she had 600 of these made in Taiwan a few years back and now can't sell them. Matter of fact, so much carbon fiber was used that bike makers couldn't get their orders filled.

Like I said, if I had a dog I would be on the phone right now ordering. It sells for $65.

You can order by calling Swobo at (831)459-0542 and ask for the Splash B Go dog bowl.

Photos by Jim Merithew/Wired.com

Where did all the great car movies go?

2009-04-17T01:22:00.018-04:00

Being both a movie buff and a car nut I find it hard to believe that with everything that can be done in movies today no one has been able to produce a true car lovers film. The most recent release of Fast and Furious just reinforces this thought. How much of this movie are the actors actually driving the cars? Better yet, how much are these cars driven at all?

Now, I haven't seen F and F, and probably won't, however, I did see the original and thought it was decent for what it was supposed to be...an action movie with some cool effects...but it left me wanting more. More engine rumbles, more rubber burning, and most importantly, real cars doing cool shit on real streets.

There have been some pretty cool movies that have done those 3 things. Most are from the sixties and seventies. My favorite of all time is "Gumball Rally". I can watch it over and over. Classic moment when they tear through a 1976 New York City. This movie along with "Cannonball!" were the predecessors to movies like "Cannonball Run" and "Smokey and the Bandit".

Everyone has their favorites, and I am not telling you which are best, just which you should seek out.

I can watch these over and over again with the volume turned up:

Bullit: No list is complete without this one.
Vanishing Point: Just all out driving, nothing else.
Gone in 60 Seconds (1974): Special effects??? What are special special effects?
Gone in Sixty Seconds: Take out the bridge jump scene and you have a pretty damn good movie.
American Graffiti: I can look at those cars all day long.
French Connection: A '71 Pontiac LeMans vs the NYC subway? Come on.

Notables:

Ronin
Days of Thunder
The Bourne films

Just got back from the barber...

2009-04-16T14:06:00.028-04:00

Just got back from the barber and found out it's second generation family owned and has been there since 1926. Made me think, how much time do these old school barbershops have left? Everyday we hear about another "Mom & Pop" shop or independently owned business shutter due to all these "Big Box" retailers taking over. Thankfully the Supercuts of the world haven't taken over. Yet.

Thanks to A Continuous Lean for getting me hooked to the LIFE Archives where these photos were found.