Cliff Yates L.A.'s Comedy Cop

Eureka, I made a guy throw up

2012-01-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

I had a great week opening for MIke Marino in Reno, at Catch A Rising Star, inside the Silver Legacy Casino. Eight shows in 6 days, it was a great way to start 2012. Last night while on duty, Sheriffing, driving the streets, those doubts crept into my mind. Do I still have the comedy chops? Is it really something I should be doing ? Wouldn't it be easier just to concentrate on my cop job. Yes I had probably 4 good shows, and two killer shows in Reno, but there were two, where I really felt the pangs of rejection, my self confidence was shaken a bit. I met with a deputy for coffee, 7-11, Echo Park, Los Angeles. We received a call of a wild man threatening a bus driver, refusing to get off the bus. It was in the San Fernando Valley, it took us about 25 minutes to arrive. We quickly brought the situation to a peaceful conclusion, or the deputy did, while I stood by. As we drove away from the call, the deputy made a comment to me on our car to car radio. A declarative statement, truthful observation on his part. I retorted with my reaction to what he said ( a punch line to his statement). It was still pretty warm, and our radio car windows were down. I heard him screaming with laughter. He then quickly pulled to the curb, and I pulled in behind him. He jumped out of his police car, bent over, and threw up ! He was still laughing. He said thats the first time in my life, I laughed so hard I threw up !! Did you see me, you made me throw up!! I still have it. Thats what it's all about. That is the key to my writing, To take real situations, observations, and insert my natural sense of humor reaction to them. My attempt to structure made up jokes is not going to work, doesn't work really. This epiphany comes on the heel of my study of the work of comedian Steve Roye, who professes to do just what I did just then naturally, to develop killer material. I have been too funny off stage, using my natural sense of humor in reaction to conversations. I have been less funny in my act, trying to write, structure, create funny out of made up stuff. Making a deputy sheriff throw up, never felt so good. I felt like I was back at the lunchroom in high school, throwing in the punch line someone took a drink of their milk, just to watch them spray it out their nose, as they laughed uncontrollably. I'm off to observe and report, and insert my personal sense of humor reaction, with my point of view and twist. I want to make more people throw up.

Occupy LA

2011-11-30T15:30:00.000-08:00

Occupy LA, I was there last night as it went down. We were protecting our territory, the nearby subway stations. From the Civic Center station, we had a birdseye view of the happenings, probably not as good as television, but being there gives you your own personal perspective. Driving by the area for weeks, and seeing the destruction of property and the litter and garbage, was unbelievable. What happened to taking a stand, tax payers payed for this park, and the rules are, you can't come in here and camp, crap and piss all over the place, and otherwise damage the property. Wow, to avoid confrontation and bad press, come on in and destroy everything to the tune of thousands of dollars. LAPD did a great job, blocking off a perimeter for several blocks surrounding City Hall. Hundreds of working, tax paying people were then not able to get to their cars, to go home, so they could get to sleep, for WORK the next day. This was caused by Occupy LA, but ofcourse the police will get the blame. It was awesome to see 1400 LAPD officers arrive in buses and in a caravan of radio cars. Ofcourse we had to activate hundreds of Deputies, to get Transportation Buses to and from the jail, to transport prisoners, and to protect the county buildings in downtown. Wheres the outrage from the public, after we have now spent I assume is now over a million dollars. Isn't it great, we peacefully concluded the movement. I thought it was sickening to see hundreds of people, taunting the police, and shoving cameras two inches from the officers faces, and yelling obscenities. Hoodlums were riding around with gas masks and sticks with impunity. I guess I'm from a different time, I say from the beginning, tell these people very nicely, please get off the property, and if they don't, Force, fast and hard. Let them occupy central jail, full medical coverage, three meals a day, showers, and weekly change of clothes, its a win win. Well I can't say anymore, lawyers already google me, and look for anything they can find, to use a gainst me, I do have the right to remain silent, So until retirement, I will keep my opinions close to the vest. Had to vent a little on this.

Upstate New York Shows

2011-11-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

Another great year doing our charity shows in upstate New York. This year we added a second show on Friday night at the Diplomat Banquet Center on Lyell avenue in Rochester NY. After seeing last years show in Caledonia NY, Tony DeBellis and Chuck Zona from the Association of Rochester Police and Area Law Enforcement Retirees approached Mike Marino and I about doing a show for their organization this year. It was a sellout crowd. This is not always easy to do on a Friday night, but they did it. Ofcourse for me still a working cop, to be able to perform for fellow officers current or retired is a thrill anytime. As always my routine, and Mikes fit together like a glove for our law enforcement crowd. The next night we returned to Caledonia, my home town. What a thrill to have my Dad open the show. This was special, in that Dad used to be the Chief of Police in town, and the charity, "Totsie Cook, Dan Coyle Scholarship" honors two of my fallen classmates. Cliff Sr, 79 years young, took the stage like an old pro. Little did i know, that he had been rehearsing for months. He knocked the socks off the crowd, and then introduced me. Mike headlined the show, and just went crazy !, it was one of the longest standing ovations I have seen Mike get. After the Saturday night show, we had a little after party at mom and dads house. What a great time. And one of the few times we were able to get the family on dads side together. Sometimes it takes a comedy show. It's great that people and family got together and saw a great show, and we made alot of money for the charities to do great things, in the end its's true, the pleasure is in the giving. To set up plan, and perform in these shows, bringing family friends, loved ones together for a special night, was truly priceless.

"A Taste of Texas"

2011-09-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

I was happy to donate a performance for my good friend and fellow department brother, Jim Dexter at his campaign kick off this past September 9th. He is running for the Baldwin Park City Council. The event was held at Nick's "A Taste of Texas" restaurant in Covina. As usual, the first thing I do, is scope the room for the amount of people, and how the room is set up. It's a very large room, with a nice stage, and great lighting. For a restaurant bar, this place a big emphasis on their stage and lighting. It looked like the place could hold about 500 people. Their was about 40 or so people, all eating, with young kids. Uh Oh !,, So with a cavernous room, air hockey in the back, and quite a few young kids, already we are not in good circumstances for a comedy show. Jeff Keller was the Headliner. He was a great guy, who played a short stint with the NFL. He currently hosts a radio show, and has toured with Paul Mooney. Jeff was great to meet, obviously a class act. He was friendly, had no ego or attitude. We both were there to support Jim, and do the best we could for him, regardless of anything else. AS we were waiting to start the show, everyone was spread out, and eating, and the lights were bright, and the place was very noisy. When Jim took the mic from the stage, people moved in closer, the music went off, the house lights went down, the stage lights went on, and hey, all of a sudden, it looked like a pretty nice show room. I did twenty minutes of clean material, well not squeaky clean, but clean. I was happy enough with my performance. I could only stay for a few minutes of Jeff's performance, but as soon as he took the stage, I knew he was a pro.

He came on strong, and i was enjoying his show. But, as it goes with being cop and comic, I was off to work. Sometimes it's comic by evening, cop by late night.

Iris Cirque Du Soleil

2011-09-15T05:21:00.000-07:00

We went to the "Iris, Cirque du Soleil" show at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. Wow what a show, I have to say it is spectacular. It is a must see. We hadn't been to the Kodak in a few years. A lot of changes to the whole area. Four levels of restaurants and shops. It was nice to walk around before the show. They announce before the show, how the show spent several million dollars to renovate the theatre, cutting the capacity down by over a thousand, to make the theatre and experience more intimate. They reconfigured the stage, and sound system, to enhance the experience. I thought that so unorthodox for a show to sacrifice the number of seats, therefore revenue per performance, in an effort to enhance the experience to the theatre goer. I think it's the right thing to do in the long run, and it looks like the show plans on being there for a while. The word of mouth will keep the shows at full capacity. And by the billboards throughout the city, and the tv ads, they have gone to great expense for advertisement. The feats and stunts in the show, are sometimes hard to believe as possible. The music combined with the performance was awesome. And the humor injected in the show was just right. I say go see it !

Laughlin with Mike Marino

2011-07-07T05:29:00.000-07:00

Had a great weekend with Mike Marino in Laughlin Nevada at the Edgewater Casino. All three shows were fantastic. Usually the Friday crowd is a little lighter and not quite as responsive. Friday, Saturday and Sunday were all packed crowds. I have to say I was very happy with all three of my performances. I'm a ashamed to say, that in all the years I have been doing comedy, the past few performances, have been the first time I have been so rehearsed. And what a difference. Usually I am going over my set selection, and actually rehearsing up to the time I leave the room to go to the showroom. This past weekend, I was so well rehearsed, it allowed me to really enjoy the weekend. I was able to really take in all the experiences of the trip and where we were. We rented jetskis, explored Laughlin, and had a great time. You have a different swagger when you take the stage, knowing your stuff, front to back, and it gives you the freedom to play with it, and be in the moment. Trying to perform, while concerned and making effort to remember you routine, is picked up by the audience, and can only hurt your performance. It definately makes you speed up, and you end up talking to fast, which only adds to the detriment of your show. It was really interesting to spend the day with Mike, and then see what he did with those experiences as he did his show that night. The showroom is really great, and the staff is very friendly. I had some new stuff that I slipped in the show, and it all went great!,,

2011-06-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

What a great show we had on June 9, at Steven's Steakhouse !, Benefitting two East Los Angeles Deputy Sheriff's, who were involved in a gun battle, they survived, killed the suspect, but one deputy lost an eye. Ticket sales were slow to start, we were a little worried, we paid for excellent talent. We had KLOS famed DJ, Frazer Smith as our MC, and our Headliner was Mike Marino. No pay wanted by me, I was honored to perform for my fellow officers, and those who support us. Slowly as we got closer to the date, we started selling tables. All of the Sheriff's Department UNIONS came through. They all wrote donation checks, in support of LA Deputy Sheriff's. I still was a little concerned because I had told Jim from Steven's I would have 300. So he reserved the big room, and through in his own DJ. As usual with these events, we had a big push the last week. I didn't anticipate a rush at the door of over 75 tickets sold!. It was a sell out in the end. We had seating for 340, and ended up with 362. Standing room only at the back. What a great night. Thanks to all who supported, gave, and attended !

God of Carnage

2011-05-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

Great show yesterday at the Ahmanson Theatre in downtown Los Angeles. "God of Carnage" starring James Gandolfini, and Jeff Danels. This show is straight from Broadway, as it has the entire broadway cast. It's a 90 minute show without intermission, it was just right. Hilarious! This is a must see show, I know it's a limited engagement show, but if you can, get down to the Ahmanson and see it.

The Downtown Comedy Club with Garrett Morris and Kevin Garnier

2011-04-14T16:30:00.000-07:00

What a great time at the Downtown Comedy Club, in downtown Los Angeles. Owned and operated by my good friends, Kevin Garnier, and the legend, Original "Saturday Night Live" Cast Member, Garret Morris. I received a lot of messages, asking why I didn't tell people I was appearing there. This really is my laboratory. Kevin and Garrett allow me to pop in during the open mic sessions of the weekend, and ply my craft. It's exactly the way I want it to be. It was a great crowd, and, I knew no one in the audience. For me working out new material, it's the right ingredient for a reality check, and a real accurate assessment of my material. No one there has a connection with me, which means, when I get the laughs there not based on any connection or relationship I have with the audience. So there I was with a packed house. As usual Kevin and Garret gave me the VIP treatment, and checked to see if I was working that night, or if there was any special time I needed to go on. Yep, I was working that night, so they put me on first, another bonus for me. I will get to work on time, and I get to hit the audience cold, which means if some of the new stuff hits, it is really good. I set up my flip video, and did my thing, I had it timed for ten minutes, when I finished and checked the flip it was 9:30,, right on schedule. I felt very comfortable and confident this night and it showed. I was happy with the reaction to the material. Some hit good, and other stuff, that I really liked, fell dead. This is the comedy business, you have to keep working, reworking the old stuff, adding, subtracting based on whats happening now. Off to work I went, put on the business suit of police work, and i stopped back at the club, to take the above photo of Myself, Kevin Garnier and Garret Morris. Garrett was looking forward to the airing on Oprah of all the original cast members in a couple days. The show aired on April 12, and it was great. I will be stepping up my secret appearances at the Downtown Comedy club, as we trek our way to the finale show of the documentary I'm filming with Billy Boyd jr. I'm going to plan a headlining weekend in the fall at the downtown comedy club, and we will film it for the documentary, hopefully, I can persuade mr Garrett Morris to be a part of it.

Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer 3/14/2011 - cwyates | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2011-03-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer 3/14/2011 - cwyates | Internet Radio | Blog Talk Radio

Yesterday I put out my second blogtalkradio show with a guest. The subject was not comedy, it was "Inside the mind of a Serial Killer". My guest was Victoria Redstall who has been producing documentaries about serial killers for the past 4 years. She produced a movie documenting the life of Wayne Adam Ford, a serial killer currently on death row, convicted of four murders. I talked to Victoria about her involvement in the case. From the time she gained access to the high power section of the jail, meeting Ford where she posed as someone else giving Ford a false identity. During the trial Ford had Victoria put on the stand, where she was forced to give her true identity. Check out the blogtalkradio segment.

Mike DeStafano Dies of a heart attack at 44

2011-03-08T06:17:00.000-08:00

Comedian Mike DeStafano suddenly died of a heart attack in NY. Mike was a comedian who finished in the top five, of "Last Comic Standing". He was a heroin addict who discovered standup in rehab. He lost his wife to Aids. I really connected to the raw truthfulness of his comedy. I guess some would find it strange that a cop would admire this guy, and enjoy his comedy, and be a fan. I was, and really looked forward to meeting him. I had recently watched his DVD, and befriended him on facebook. He really loved doing stand up, and was just finishing a tour in New York when he passed away. Yes he was raw, and cursed alot, for sure he was very real, and very funny. RIP Mike.

Headlining at the National Latino Peace Officers Assoc Dinner

2011-03-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

Last night I was honored to be tasked with headlining the National Latino Peace Officers, ELA Association dinner at Steven's Steakhouse in Commerce,Ca. Thank you Ray Lam for having me at the show, and allowing me to book the talent for the show. It was really great to perform with Frazer Smith, Marco Assante, Vince Royale, and Randy Lubis. Everybody was outstanding and the crowd loved the show. Jim from Steven's Steakhouse once again, runs a class act operation and somehow always has a packed house. I talked with Jim for a while, and we collaborated on doing future comedy shows at Steven's. It was nice to be top dog, and headlining a show, but Ive gotten so used to featuring and opening for Mike Marino, it seemed like something was missing not having him there. I talked to Mike just before the show, he had just come off stage in Florida, where he is on a multi city theatre tour. Mike as always gave me some words of encouragement, and off i went, and was very happy with my performance. Now back to the writing table!!

I use Psycho-Cybernetics

2011-02-19T15:24:00.000-08:00

I use Psycho-Cybernetics for my goals in comedy and life in general. The term comes from combining Psychology, thinking, science of the mind stuff, and Cybernetics, which originated from Greece, meaning, helmsman, or someone who steers. Hence controlling your thoughts in a direction that you choose. I recommend reading several books about Psycho-Cybernetics from the author Dr. Maxwell Maltz. He wrote his books in the 1960's, and many self help books and gurus that followed adopted many of his philosophies. Dr. Maltz an accomplished plastic surgeon, discovered that some of his patients, after he would repair damage to their faces, and restored them to natural beauty, would still feel the same, self conscious, and ashamed of the way they looked. The scars on the outside had been repaired, but the emotional scars on the inside remained. Thats when Dr. Maltz began his study of the self image. His book really trains you to control the prevailing thoughts you maintain, which he says has a big effect on our natural Automatic Success System. The thoughts we maintain and focus on, get communicated to our sub-conscious, or as Dr. Maltz describes, our Automatic Success System. Depending on our thoughts, it can be our Automatic Success System, or our Automatic Failure System. Our subconscious doesn't argue with us or our conscious mind, on whether what were focusing on is positive or good, it merely carries out the orders. Which is why it is so important, to keep those good thoughts prevailing, and focus on what we want, and not on what we don't want. In the book he also gives strategies for maintaining good thoughts in our minds. We can always control bad thoughts that enter our mind, but we can control how long they stay there. It's pretty amazing to hold thoughts and goals in our minds eye, and then see down the road, unforseen circumstances conspire to make our dreams come true. I recommend Psycho-Cybernetics for harnessing the unlimited power of our subconscious minds, in realizing all our dreams. I haven't looked at Maltz's work in a while, writing this has reignited my passion to give myself a refresher.

Filming a Documentary

2011-02-18T16:06:00.000-08:00

Are you ready? , I need you with me ! Last night I inked a deal with the amazing Bill Boyd jr, of Great Media TV. We will be filming a documentary for the next year. Putting on film, the trials and tribulations of L.A's Comedy cop, preparing for retirement from policing to full time comedian. The film will culminate with me headlining my own comedy concert at the world famous Roxy on Sunset. Some may remember I headlined my own show there in 1996. Time to return and rip the roof off. Looking forward to having all my loyal followers and supporters in the Documentary. Bill will be filming at small clubs, and shows, as we work our way to the Roxy. Maybe we should call this, "Road to the Roxy". Bill will also be hitting the streets with me, documenting some on duty footage. This should be a great adventure, and what an honor to have Bill shooting this. check out his bio:

Bill Boyd, Jr.

Bill has over 20 years experience in the television industry. He has worked with such legends as comedian Jerry Lewis, producer/host Dick Clark, puppeteers Sid and Marty Krofft, and country entertainer Garth Brooks.Bill's experience began at dick clark productions, where he has worked as the segment producer on major specials such as the GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS and the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS. Other award shows he has been involved with are the AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS and the PRODUCERS GUILD AWARDS.
He has produced and directed concert openings for MICHAEL JACKSON'S "IN CONCERT IN BUCHAREST" for HBO, as well as HANK WILLIAMS JR'S "DOUBLE EAGLE TOUR" for Pay-Per-View Television. In addition, he shot, produced and directed the 30-minute retrospective opening for the country group ALABAMA'S JUNE JAM 10th ANNIVERSARY. He was also involved with the Live 21-hour television concert FARM AID IV.

Introduced by original Saturday Night Live cast member Garret Morris

2011-01-22T16:55:00.000-08:00

What a thrill to be introduced by one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live, Garret Morris !

I know a lot of people of the new generation don't remember him from SNL in the 70's, but he is such a talent that I don't think ever really got the credit he deserved. I had a chance to talk with him before the show, at 73, he still exudes a passion for life, and show business. It was great to see him up on that stage doing his thing. He has had a wild run in life, fame with SNL, drugs, and being shot, and he is still living with passion. I have been doing a lot of writing, and needed to get down to the Downtown Comedy Club, and put it out there. It's the only true test of new material. A comedy club, with no one in the audience that I know. A comedy club in downtown LA, that borders skid row, probably the audience is made up of a very liberal crowd, and a crowd that is not that prone to loving the police, and here I go being introduced as LA's Comedy Cop, a real cop. But it went great. I introduced the new stuff, the way you have to do it, opening up with tried and true stuff, and then slipping the new material in the middle, and finish with strong well rehearsed material. I recorded the session with my flip video, so I could go over the reaction of the crowd to the material. I am looking at filming a new DVD in the next year, so the time to write and hone the material is now. Ofcourse crazy thoughts go through your mind as you drive to the venue by yourself. You start thinking what am I doing, I have a day job that pays great, why am I going to this place of strangers who don't know me, and bear my soul. It was a great set, and to squirm through the crowd at the back of audience, and comedians, meeting that blank stare of non recognition on your way to the stage, that feeling of confidence, and feeling this is where I want to be overtakes you. After the set, to be met with applause and approval, and shaking of hands, and smiles of the people I passed by as a stranger not 15 minutes earlier, I have to say, was a tremendous high.

The Book, What if ?, and Why not ?

2011-01-15T19:43:00.000-08:00

I'm currently reading the book, "what if? and Why not? by Jen Groover. For those looking to expand your life, grow, and maybe even take a leap of faith in a new venture. this book is for you. For sure if you thinking of being an entrepreneur, this is kind of a how to, but not just the physical legal requirements, but more importantly the psychology. According to my kindle, I'm just 20% into the book, but, it was time for a post, and the book, so far, inspired me to action. I'll quoted from Jen's book, "Just about every idea that ever turned an industry upside down or minted a generation of new millionaires was considered crazy by the majority. That is, until it became a huge success. Then it's value was suddenly obvious to all the naysayers! The moral of the story is that when you tell people-and this includes other entrepreneurs and business people, who are as susceptible to innovation aversion as anybody else-about your vision and they snap, "can't be done," don't lose faith. In fact having someone tell you that your concept is bonkers can be reason to dance, sing, and plan for your initial public stock offering. The real currency in business in not money but original thinking". I'm not done yet, but the book has fascinating stories, real life situations that are very inspiring. A story about the original Beatles manager, arranging auditions for the fab four, and the reaction was, no, guitar groups are a thing of the past. We know the band signed with another producer, and the rest is history. O.K. I'm off to work my police job on the night shift. And tomorrow I will continue to plot my journey to full time comedian. And I will finish this book, while I think "What if? and why not?

Lombardi Rules

2011-01-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

One of the inspiring events of our trip to New York City was seeing the show "Lombardi". I have been thinking about the show, and the man, and yesterday I received my "Success" magazine. One of the featured articles was about Vince Lombardi, titled, Greatness beyond the grid Iron. The article featured many of the Lombardi Rules. Lombardi Rule: Act with purpose, I'm not better nor less than the next man. But I always knew what my acts would mean. I was lucky, and i found a singleness of purpose early on." I think I will start this year, incorporating a few of the rules myself. Lombardi Rule: Chase perfection. "if you settle for nothing less than your best, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish in your life." Lombardi Rule: Don't just work harder than the next guy. Work harder than everybody else. Lombardi believed that a persons character is made up of small, everyday decisions to do the right thing, as well as larger prevailing traits, such as respect, humility and responsibility. "Character is just another word for having a perfectly disciplined and educated will." He brought five NFL championships to Green Bay in nine seasons. While other coaches knew more about the x's and y's of the game, no one knew his player's psychology better than Lombardi. He developed people, not players.

Here we go 2011

2011-01-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

Central Park New York

Well here we go 2011, first day. I really had a great December, spending time with family and friends. The trip to New York, was just what I needed. It was great to get away and get inspired, and New York can really do that for you, or allow you to do it for yourself. I took the time, to look back on the previous year, and really soak up the memories, and be in a state of gratitude for everything that was either accomplished or at least tried. It was great to enjoy New York with Alba and our friends Ray and Linda Lam, who got married on this trip
! Alba and I were honored that they wanted to get married on this trip with us, and allow us to enjoy and be a part of this special day in their lives. New York City is not for everyone, but I know many people who tell me they really want to go, and they will someday, the road to someday, leads to nowhere. I say do it, you can budget and make it happen. You will be glad you did. I also did a great amount of reading, and studying the greats of comedy. Lets get started, I will continue to do the podcast, and blog on a regular basis. I have some hefty goals as far as writing, rehearsing, and performing, while still doing my best to stay employed in my cop job. I hope everyone had a great New Years !

Next To Normal in LA

2010-12-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

Last night Alba and I went to the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles to see the play, "Next To Normal". Wow what a show. Some of the reviews raved about the lead actress, Alice Ripley, I have to say, I hadn't heard of her. She was just amazing ! It's a great play, that starts out with plenty of laughs, great writing about family dynamics. If your part of any family of more than one, you will find something to relate to.
The play takes a dark turn, when you find out, Alice's character is dealing with the loss of her son, who died when he was 8 months. And all that comes with dealing with that, and maintaining the rest of the family, and a daughter, what she has to deal with, being the surviving sibling. Sorry, there will be tears. The same directors or producers, I'm not sure which, or both, who were involved with the broadway show "Rent", were involved in this production. At the conclusion, there was no smattering of a standing ovation, it was instantaneous, the entire crowd, leaped to their feet, and gave a thunderous ovation. It was a great night all together, we arrived early, to have some coffee, and enjoy the ambience of the whole Music Center experience, with the lights, water, and people. The music center incorporates three different venues, each in separate buildings, coming together in one complex of theatres. You have the Dorothy Chandler Pavillion where years ago they had the academy awards, and many operas today. You have the smaller Mark Taper forum, a theatre in the round, that seats aroudn 700. Then you have the Ahmanson, which seats about 2,500. If you get the chance, see " Next To Normal".

Corporate show at Pismo Beach with Mike Marino and Frazer Smith

2010-11-25T12:23:00.000-08:00

Mike Marino Frazer Smith Cliff Yates

A great show at the Cliff's Resort in Pismo Beach. This was a terrorism training conference for Law Enforcement Agencies from all over the state. After last years show, this conference sold out this year in record time, and Doug Gillies the coordinator for the conference had to turn people away. It was standing room only at this show. Frazer Smith opened the show as our MC, and started killing right from the start. I did my thing, and always a pleasure to perform for my fellow Law Enforcement officers. Mike Marino flew in from a gig in Florida, and as the headliner, just murdered the room. Everyone at the conference was great. And what a place, high on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

Pismo Beach Corporate Show

Thanks Tony Robbins

2010-11-04T10:44:00.000-07:00

Every once and a while, I do a "Thanks Tony Robbins". And this is the subject of this weeks podcast. Give a listen, it's not detailed, I just went off the top of my head, as usual with some thoughts I was having. A little history of my study of Tony Robbins, and his influence on my life, and my meeting him at the Universal City Walk, while working there as a Sheriff's Deputy.

Great Shows at the Ventura Comedy Club

2010-10-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

Had a great weekend of shows at the Ventura Harbor Comedy Club. Can't thank Mike Marino enough for hiring me as his feature act. We had a great show on Friday night, and two great shows on Saturday Night. Now one of the shows, had a a drunk female, who was obnoxious loud out of control heckler of everyone. I didn't really deal with her too much, I kind of just bowled over her noise, and continued on, and it went great, but the audience was aware and distracted by her. As the feature act I have to be conscious of my interaction with the audience, and leave the energy as high as I possibly can for my headliner. I knew Mike would take care of that table in short order, and ofcourse he did, and thats the way he likes to do it. They actually got escorted out of the club. But the crowd and Mike Marino were on the same page, and that is an art form to be able to do what he did, and still deliver the best entertainment he can for the paying customers, who came to be entertained and laugh, and have a good time. Mike is very conscious of this and gives the best show possible, wherever he is, and however many people are in the crowd, from 10 to 10,000. He always delivers. There can't be a better school for working the crowd and dealing with drunks or hecklers, than watching Mike Marino do it live. The Ventura Harbor Comedy Club is a class act !,, Thanks to Randy Lubis, the co owner and MC, a national headliner in his own right, did a fantastic job, and treated all of us in the show with great respect. He was outstanding. The staff is great, and very attentive to the patrons, as well as the comedians. Roger the door manager was fantastic, I can't thank him enough for taking the time to tape our sets and getting the DVD's to Marco Assante and myself.

This weeks podcast

2010-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

In this weeks podcast I talk about my performance at the Laugh Factory in Long Beach. I was able to perform with MIke Marino, and spent some time talking with John Diresta. I also talked about the upcoming shows in Ventura. Just click on the podcast date to the right side of the page.

The Laugh Factory

2010-10-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Had a great time performing at the Laugh Factory in Long Beach last night. It was a great charity event for the special olympics. By chance, I ended up on the line up with Mike Marino, The Cop and the Con back again. I've had it in my mind, how I would get an opportunity to perform at the Laugh Factory, and somehow the universe cooperated with my subconscious and it came together. I really enjoyed sharing a booth at the back of the showroom with my wife, Mike Marino, and John Diresta. Tweaked some of my material, polished it, and threw in some new stuff, and it all went well. All in all I was happy with the performance, ofcourse, I am never quite happy with it. Stand by the for the weekly podcast today.

Writing Comedy for new DVD taping

2010-10-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

I'm getting in the wood shed daily, writing for the next DVD taping. I've had to tune up my comedy writing basics. It has to be truthful, Phyllis Diller, told one of her writers, Gene Perret, if it's not true, don't send it. The writing of comedy, starts with truth, and involves the ability to analyze and prepare. There are two basic thought processes to writing a joke. First the rapid, almost unnoticeable, rolling of thoughts and ideas through your brain, and instantaneously analyzing these for a relevant connection with another thought. Generally joke writing is made up of taking two ideas and combining them into one. What I have to do is tie two ideas together in a funny way. A big part of the funny in a joke, is the funny, which comes as a surprise. The punch line has to be hidden while presenting the set up. The audience can't see it coming. A comedy writer has to take advantage of the way people process thoughts, so they can be led in a direction, and be hit in the head with the surprise. I'm trying my best to take experiences in my police job, and turn them into material, all the while, making sure these ideas and premises our relatable to a vast audience, as opposed to a niche group. This can be the difficult part, but it is what gives me a niche, in that, I'm one of the few actual cops, who is also a comedian. Ok, I'm back to the writing table, writing my next killer comedy routine.

10/05/2010

2010-10-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody,

I actually figured out how to post a podcast to the blog. You can see it to the right of the page, just click on it, and then you click on the podcast button on the top, and it starts playing !,, it works,, so I will be posting podcasts on a regular basis now that I know that I can do it. Thank god for you tube video tutorials. Yes!

2010-10-02T18:06:00.001-07:00

I have decided to start the process of filming my next DVD. This DVD will be a full hour of new stuff. I am going to title this show and DVD, "Once Before I Go", because this will be the last DVD, /concert, I will do as working Sheriff's Sergeant. I am down to 23 months before I retire, just enough time, to get the new material, work it out, rent the theatre or club, get the film crew, and get it done. I guess it will be kind of a retirement party also. Maybe the DVD release party will be the retirement celebration. Thats the plan, and everyone can have a DVD of the party. I'm off to work on it now. I'll keep you posted on the details.

LA Cop Leads Double Life, and Plans to Kill

2010-09-29T15:32:00.000-07:00

LA Cop Leads Double Life, and Plans to Kill

Totsie Cook/Dan Coyle Scholarship Show

2010-08-24T23:01:00.000-07:00

September 18th, Jones Hall Caledonia Ny, Saturday Night. Please come, this is going to be a great show, for a great cause. Jones Hall, is opening the doors at 6pm for food and beverage, and the show starts promptly at 8pm.. This is a special show, the class of 75 , friends and family lost Totsie way too early, and the Totsie Cook scholarship was created. Classmate Dan Coyle, pictured above, would help raise money for the scholarship through the farm, and pumpkin patch each year with the kids. Last year, we lost Dan in a tragic accident. Dan and I were both class clowns back in school, I remember he and I getting sent to the principals office, when we decided to start combing our hair in unison. Who knows we could have started synchronized hair combing in the Olympics. To top things off this year for our 2nd comedy show, we have Dan Coyle jr, flying in from Chicago, to sing a few songs in honor of his dad, this will be a special night. I don't know when we will be able to get national headliner Mike Marino to come back out to Caledonia, I was able to get him committed to our show early, he is in high demand and selling out all over the country. The show last year was sold out at the Caledonia Country Club, and we had to turn some folks away at the door. Please buy early either on line or through Loree Harrington, Gail at Jones Hall, or Cliff Yates sr. go to the web site home page for ticket details, see you at the show !!!!

Saturday September 18,2010

2010-08-20T12:46:00.001-07:00

Saturday September 18, is quickly approaching, I am so thankful that I have the opportunity to be going back to my hometown of Caledonia New York, and put on a comedy show, which will benefit the Totsie Cook/Dan Coyle Scholarship fund. Last year we had a fantastic show, at the Caledonia Country Club, it was a sell out, and we had to turn people away at the door. Totsie and I were good friends, both from the Cal Mum Class of 75. Last year was a tough year to be putting on the show, as we lost another classmate Dan Coyle in a tragic accident. We not only dedicated the sow to Totsie and Dan, but also another class of 75 classmate, Jerry Forsyth, who we also lost too soon. It seemed very healing, to get together and remember, and spend time together and laugh too. This year we have moved the show to Jones Hall, so we should be able to pack in 350 plus. I am very happy, that this I can bring back with me, Mike Marino, this guy starred in a lot of national commercials, he's done sketch comedy for Jay Leno for 15 plus years, and has been a national headlining touring comedian for many years. Last year he really made the show fantastic. I hope everyone who can from Caledonia, can come to this show.. Gail Milner, had pulled out all the stops to make this show as good as it can get,, we have tables, food and drink. She is opening the doors at 6pm, so folks can mingle, talk and eat. Please buy your tickets early, we want everyone to get a ticket, and we want to tally our total for the charity ahead of time, so we can give the big check on the night of the show, along with the real check. Please buy your tickets on line at the web site, or call Loree Harrington, or my Dad, who has tickets, and Gail at Jones Hall.

September 17 show Caledonia, NY

2010-08-18T11:57:00.000-07:00

It's getting close, September 17, Friday night, this is going to be a special show at Jones Hall, 366 Leicester street, Caledonia, NY. All the proceeds are going to an organization, "The American Federation of Police and Concerned Citizens". When I was looking for a charity to do our show, in honor of my friend, fallen Livingston County Sheriff's Deputy Jim Chiverton, I was contacted by his son Jason, who referred me to this organization, that gave Jim's sons thousands of dollars in scholarships. Thats all Mike and I needed to hear, to make this our charity. Last year at the Caledonia Country Club show,, I was really moved, when I was face to face with many of my former deputy partners from Livingston County who came to the show. I have nothing but fond fond memories of my five years with the Livingston County Sheriff's Department ! This year with this show being dedicated in honor of Jim, I hope to see and spend some time with many of my old friends.. Please come and support this show. Retired Deputy, and photographer Larry Tetamore will be at the show taking photos for anyone to purchase later, his son Mike will be opening the show, with some of his own comedy. We have national headliner Mike Marino coming to the show, this is amazing!!! please google Mike Marino comedian, and check him out, he is one of the best in the world!!!

Steven's Steakhouse

2010-05-11T16:56:00.000-07:00

I have taken the handle on my next big big fundraiser charity event, with me, opening for the man, Mike Marino. This show is going to be at Steven's steakhouse, which is a beautiful location in commerce. This charity is near and dear to my heart, because the money will be given in the name of a friend of mine who was killed in a car accident, delivering a subpoena on his own time. He was such a great guy, and when he got out of the service, he would ride with me at the Livingston County Sheriff's dept., he was a car salesman at the time. His father and my father used to work together on the same department. Jim's only dream at the time was to become a Livingston County Sheriff's department. He finally got on, and I trained him, and we used to work sister cars on the midnight shift. In 1983 I left to join the Los Angeles county Sheriff's department, and we lost touch. In 1987 while trying to deliver a subpoena in Rochester NY, he was killed by a wrong way driver on the expressway. This charity we are doing the show in commerce for, gave several scholarships to his boys. We are doing another show in September, in Rochester, where we will give another check in Jim's name, where is wife and boys will be present.

Headlining the Downtown Comedy Club

2010-05-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

Well it was great headlining the downtown Comedy Club in downtown LA ofcourse. A little natural nervousness, because on this night I was the guy. I am so use to opening for Mike Marino and being the feature, it was a little different feeling being the headliner. But I loved it !. It was a pretty good crowd, not as big, I think because it was the big fight night, Maryweather against Sugar Shane Mosley, and i know so many people who were staying home to watch the fight. I sometimes enjoy performing for people I don't know at all and have not seen me,, you get a totally sincere reaction. Not that you don't get a real reaction from friends and family, but because they know you, the reaction sometimes is more readily geared to acceptance and laughter. Which is great !,, I guess thats the ideal, make 6 million people your fan and friend !,,, Ok back work !!!

Downtown Comedy Club in Los Angeles

2010-04-30T10:12:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow night headlining the Downtown Comedy Club, in Los Angeles. A big thank you to Kevin Garnier for having me headline this show!. Looking forward to it, after a great run opening for Mike Marino in Laughlin Nevada. Some great new stuff came out of the laughlin shows, so these gems and more to come out at Tomorrow Nights show. This will be one of my raw shows, I will have to give myself a review on this type of show. See everyone tomorrow night!

Laughlin Run comedy

2010-04-28T06:06:00.000-07:00

Just back from touring. MIke and I started out in San Diego at the Casino Pauma. Next we headed for the Edgewater Casino in Laughlin Nevada. Wow, it was biker week, and it was amazing. A million motorcycles roaring around town. It was hot and sunny on the river. The showroom was very nice in the hotel. We wondered what the crowds would be like considering it was 99 percent bikers. It turned out the crowds were fantastic. Everyone was very friendly, and the audiences for the shows were great ! We had a great time.

April 21,2010

2010-04-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
alot going on,, Tomorrow head out on the road for a week opening for the man, New Jerseys Bad Boy, Mike Marino. First we head out to Casino Pauma near San Diego. Then on the road to Laughlin, the Edgewater Casino. This should be a wild time, it is biker week. I miss doing the podcast,but it was such a hassle trying to get it to play on the site, so it was user friendly. I am going to give it another try, using my blog section to host the weekly podcast. So back in the home studio in a few minutes, and then try my hand at some technical challenges to post it on the blog. Wish me luck, hopefully I will have on posted today..

Podcasting and other things

2010-03-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

H.ey,,
It's a beautiful day here in Southern California !,, why do I like to rub it in to my counterparts back east !,, I don't know,,. It keeps my mind off the gangs, drugs, killings, car jacking, inmate releases, homeless, and bad air.. Ahh that is why.. Oh my god, or OMG,, this podcast,,, having trouble, switching hosting again. Just trying to get it to stream, not my thing,, my podcast !,, so you click on it and hear it,, that is the idea.. We are working on it, the whole team. Keep checking the Calendar, we have some upcoming dates. April 22-25, opening for Mike again, this time in Laughlin. This should be fun. Also just added, a charity show, 999 for kids, for the department. May 20, Universal Citywalk, the Rhumba Room. It should be a great time. We have Erik Estrada from CHIPS fame as our MC. OK, time to go work on the podcast, let me get my overalls on and get under the hood of this macbook.

Hey 2010

2010-02-25T16:56:00.000-08:00

Seriously,
I mean, I could us an excuse, and say I do a weekly podcast everyweek, there is no reason to do the written blog anymore. But the button is still on the web site, and to tell you the truth, sometimes I need it. Apparently not that often. It is hard for me to believe that my last written blog was in 2009. And I have not updated my web site, because, the shows I have booked are a way out, and I have several irons in the fire.. No excuse. I will get the sit updated pronto. The last time I submitted to this written blog, I had read and was inspired by an autobiography for George Carlin. Since then, I have read a book on the life of Chevy Chase, and am not on to a book about, and by Howie Mandell. Let me remind you ofcourse that I am still working my full time police job, along with my comedy career. I have to somewhat pay attention to my duties at the police job, anytime you might get killed, or have to kill, you should pay attention. I prefer nowadays to kill on stage, but there still is the matter of bills, and travel. Oh and food. I am still at writing and creating, and figuring out what my actual point of view and comedy voice is. I have inked the deal to return to my hometown Caledonia, NY, and do a second show for my fallen classmates, the Totsie Cook, Dan Coyle Scholarship. I am very happy, that we are going to be at Jones Hall, a much bigger venue, and that Mike Marino has agreed to do the show again, and at greatly reduced fee. Mike agreed to do a second show with me the Friday night before, so I am waiting for the contract to be signed for the Hochstein Music Academy in Rochester. This is a great venue, it is like a mini carnegie Hall. Theres no drinking, it is a theatre, and they have never had a comedy show event. This will be a great place for the Cop and the Con to debut in the city of Rochester NY. It is still a risk financially, in this kind of gig, as the producer, I have to rent the place, arrange for spot light, sound and black curtain, which they after they get cash. I have to secure a million dollar insurance policy, and then just sell tickets from 3,000 miles. Thats ok, I am dedicating a substantial budget to advertising this show, and am going to expect the best. Theres only one other real comedy club in Rochester, and it's in Webster. So with Mike Marino as the headliner, this show will sell out.

Getting ready for 2010

2009-12-23T04:12:00.000-08:00

Wow,, Laura Mallory really did a tremendous job with the homepage of the web site !,
What a year, as I look back, I didn't realize how much we got done this past year !, I say we, because it takes a team, and I definately think I have a great team getting built for this comedy machine, that will be up and 100% running in 2010. Laura Mallory with the Woven Web, awesome!!. Go to the wovenweb.com and check it out.
New York was really inspiring, hopefully if you can , you have listened to the podcast and got all the details. The biogrophy of George Carlin really got me going, and thinking, big time ! By June this next year, I know I will have a whole new routine, that may take a whole different direction. It is going to be great. Making big plans for 2010. Happy Holidays !!

Live With Passion

2009-11-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

I didn't know what to title this blog, so I decided to put in a "Tony Robbins" tag line. Why not. Well after a week in Reno, my first gig, for a week straight, 8 shows in six days, opening for Mike Marino !, it's time to put in a blog. I am going to still do the blog, even though I do the weekly podcast. I am pretty sure some people don't access the podcast, although all you have to do is click and listen. Bill Burr who does his weekly Monday Morning Podcast, doesnt do a blog any more, although he hasn't updated his web site yet, taking off the blog, since his last post was about a year ago. Believe it or not, after our week in Reno, Mike Marino went back to New Jersey for 3 or 4 days, then he flew back to California to do one show with me, a corporate show in San Luis Obispo Ca. It was great, right on the beach! The place was called appropriately enough, "Cliff's" resort. It's not mine, but so what, it's bears my name, so I'm glad it was top of the line posh. The show went great, it was a show for, Joint Regional Intelligence for Law Enforcement and Terrorism. It was a great group ! Awesome pay, awesome accommodations. Up next, an 8 minute set at the Ice House for Comedy Time Tv, and then were off to New York City, Manhattan during Christmas is awesome !! Thats all for now, keep checking out the weekly podcast if you haven't already.

What a Summer

2009-10-06T13:54:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone !, with a weekly podcast I'm not sure if doing a blog also is necessary, or good or bad. It's on the web site, so I can't see it sitting there with an old date on it. This summer was something fantastic. Going back to the summer place for a wonderful week, with the Wife, Kids, parents, was perfect, just too short. But we had to set off for Spain, it was a great two weeks, but we were definately ready for home. The Comedy Benefit shows, specifically my homecoming show, turned out perfect. After planning these shows for over eight months, there was a lot to coordinate, and keep track of. It was a very emotional and rewarding trip. Seeing so many friends and family. Many friends I hadn't seen for 30 years. Raising money for my fallen classmates was great, and very sad to reflect on them being taken so young. So many of the hometown folks came together, to raise money in their honor. It was really special to be able to have Mike Marino headline the shows !,, he was unbelievably terrific, as expected !! We have to do it again next year, and what a great problem we have, in needing a bigger venue, we had to stop marketing the Caledonia show and turn people away.. I can't stop thanking enough my Caledonia people who came through for the show. Loree Harrington, Bob Blair, Jim Guillen, everyone at the Caledonia Country Club, you all were awesome !. Back to rehearsing and writing for my week in Reno, at the Silver Legacy Casino, opening for Mike Marino.

Getting Ready for New York

2009-07-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Less than sixty days until the big homecoming show in Caledonia, and the Carey Lake Show in Pennfield. Both shows are charity events, and my hometown show is really going to be something special. All proceeds are going to benefit the Totsie Cook, Danny Coyle Scholarship. Both thes guys were high school friends and from my class of 75. This year we lost another from our class, who was my closest friend in high school, Jerry Forsyth. I think we are going to sell out the Caledonia Country Club, with many from the class of 75 showing their support. I think it's going to be a real emotional show for myself and those who were close to thes guys. I know it's going to be a real comedy sensation, we were lucky to lock in New Jerseys Bad Boy, Mike Marino early, since we booked him, he shot a pilot for a sitcom based on his life. He is currently at the just for laughs comedy festival in Montreal. TV guide Canada did a full article on Mike in their latest issue. It's going to be a great show, were going to present a check on the night of the show to Totsie's and Danny's family, there are only about 40 tickets left, so those, especially for the class of 75, if your reading this,, get on the web site and get those tickets, it will be great to get together for this special cause..

First Podcast

2009-06-29T16:33:00.000-07:00

Well I did the first podcast !,, ofcourse as I say on the podcast, the purpose was, I could do away with the blogging, it seems the next step up. I can't yet decide to remove it from my site. And this blog feeds into the notes on facebook,,,hmm I could just keep doing the blog, and just say see podcast.. Well anyway it went well, in the fact I got a lot of positive feedback, on my sillyness with garageband, I couldn't help it, it was too much fun creating an imaginary producer, and studio audience.. I will continue to do it every Thursday. It's easer to listen, while your doing other things, than to read a cold text blog... Thanks for everyones positive comments on the podcast, keep tuning in..

Hacienda Golf Course

2009-06-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

Played a great round of golf at the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department S.T.A.R unit fund raising tournament. Held at the Hacienda Golf Course, we had a great dinner after the round, and I did a 15 mintute set for them, and conducted the live auction.
Busy this week, being fitted for soft contacts, wich I have to wear for a month or so, before I can have laser eye surgery. The laptop should be back from the doctor today. Yes !
Alright back to writing and rehearsing.

DVD Release

2009-06-04T00:45:00.001-07:00

Finally the DVD's came in, and are available. Thanks to all who ordered up right away, the first batch is in the mail. It is a good feeling to finally get this DVD out and about. From it's start back in January with the filming, then the editing, reproduction and were done. Click it or ticket, click on the store, and order up a DVD and I will send it right out to you, I pay the shipping. Tomorrow, I work on doing some kind of audio podcast or voice blog. I keep saying that, now I have to do it..

DVD

2009-05-26T01:23:00.001-07:00

Alright, finally, after some major hurdles with the Master copy, the DVD and artwork for the cover passed all requirements for duplication. It was approved by Discmakers, and has a shipping date of May 29. So the batch should be here by the first of June. It is now available for order on the site. I am selling it for $10 bucks, and I pay the shipping.
I have to keep up on this blog. I have everything in order to start doing a podcast, which I think would be better than the blog. That seems the way to go in the future. I got the idea from Bill Burr's web site, check out his weekly podcast through his site. It is definately more personal, and he hooks you into checking it out every Monday Morning. Theres something about hearing the podcast that is so personal, and you do other things while you listen to it. Yep I am definately going to start doing the podcast next week. So for my 9 fans, look for my weekly podcast to start, and please pass the word, I am looking to up my fan base to 11 this year !,, I know I can do it..

DVD

2009-04-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

Finally the DVD is done, of the Jan 24 show. Brian Sheil did an awesome job editing this shoot. He made over 600 edits on this three camera shoot. I have the master, not off for duplication, so we can get this thing out. Everybody who was at the show should get a DVD of the show, Brian lit the audience beautifully. Excellent job !. Writing new material for the September shows in New York, will have a couple of preview shows this summer to see what to keep and what to trash. The DVD should be ready for sale on the site in about a week.

March 19 at the Ice House in Pasadena

2009-03-22T04:10:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, for years I always wanted to play the main room at the Ice House in Pasadeana. When Mike Marino asked me to open for him, it was a dream come true. With wife, and friends in the audience, it was a great night !. I had one of the best sets, it was a great time. I have a few private shows coming up where I will be fitting in some new material. I have to start now, in getting ready for the homecoming show in Caledonia NY, and the Rochester Show at Carey Lake which will benefit the Damascus Shriners of Webster.

Las Vegas

2009-03-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

In Las Vegas, went to the George Wallace Show last night at the Flamingo Hilton, he puts on a great show ! Almost two hours, and really works the audience well. I am gearing up for the show at the Ice House in Pasadena, lucky enough to be opening up for Mike Marino again. After that I will be concentrating on the New York Shows. I am really looking forward to my first show in my hometown of Caledonia NY. It is going to be at the Caledonia Country Club, where I actually performed during a band break when I was a senior in high school.

Marriott Show a Smashing Success

2009-01-26T23:08:00.001-08:00

The show at the Marriott downtown Los Angeles turned out to be an overwhelming success ! We actually had to upgrade to a bigger ballroom, we packed in 300 plus. Mike Marino brought in a surprise host, Frazer Smith, and he was awesome. I had my hands full, coordinating the room rental, arranging for the film crew, and the company that brought in the back drop curtain, and also the sound people. Brian Sheil, brought in an outstanding crew for the 3 camera shoot, he lit the audience and stage beautifully. He said the taping turned out great, and now he is starting the editing process. Hopefully the DVD will be available in a few weeks. Ofcourse Mike Marino, headlined and just killed for over an hour !. I can't thank Mike enough for making this show a winner, as he always does.

One Week From Today

2009-01-17T10:13:00.000-08:00

Well everything is in place for the big show next Saturday night. We had some last minute challenges with the space at the Marriott, but everything is working out. The film crew that is shooting the DVD is ready to go. We have another company bringing in the curtain for the backdrop. Ticket sales are great, we are limited to 200 seats, 30 more to go in the next few days, and we will be sold out. I will be rehearsing my set intensely until the day before the show. Mike Marino is ready to blow the room apart as usual, I could not have a better headliner. Back to rehearsing.

Trip to New York

2008-12-20T13:21:00.000-08:00

Just returned home from New York City trip. The wife and I, and another couple had a great time. We saw Jeffrey Ross at Carolines on Broadway , he did an hour as the headliner, and he was fantastic. We saw Phantom of the Opera at the Majestic Theatre, awesome. Now back to work at the cop job, and full time writing for the January 24th show. I want to have my routine done completely by January 10. That will give me 2 weeks for rehearsal. Back to writing.

Cliff