The Results Are In...

Thursday, July 28, 2011 has come on gone and by the time 4:00pm hit I sensed I wasn't going to be reciving the call.

Motown Maurice

Using a boxing anology I confortablely say this was a sleepy dazze. This was no where close to a knock down. I have way too many other things developing in my favor. Many opportunities that I haven't even mentioned on this blog yet.

The only thing that trully disappoints me about the results is the fact that I got some many people fired up to support me and once again I wasn't able to bring home the championship.

Sorry everyone but your going to have to postpone the prrade a bit longer.

Craftsman Screw*d is behind me and I'll probably post one more final evluation, reveal a few other things, then officially move on.

Previous Post:  Voting Period is Over!!! 

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Voting Period is Over!!!

The voting period finally ended at 12:00am. There is no big relief to express, I'm just glad I can start posting again. I've been holding back from posting because I wanted to keep my blog home page designated for Craftsman Screw*d promotion. In regards to the voting process, I decided to take a particular stand after the first day. By taking the stand, I was able to do some great reading (The Alchemist) and I also wrote some of my blogs best work.

I'm really proud of my most recent writings. They are a must read. For easy excess here are the links.

The Never Ending Intuition of God's Omens

Life Styles of the Storage & Community Housing

Peace Surpasses All Understanding 

Motown Maurice vs July 2011 

Now I'm going to pose a question to myself. "How do I feel?" In a brief acting class I took in Tampa, the teacher use to make make the students get in front of the class and ask ourselves that question. I never had an opportunity to perform the exercise but I've observed and then read about it in "Irreverent Acting" by Eric Morris. Okay, now here we go. "How do I feel?" I honestly feel claim. I'm not anxious. I'm not nervous and I'm not stressed. I feel cool. There is no anxiety at all in me. I feel relaxed. Most of all I feel indomitable.

In less the 24 hours I will know the outcome of the Craftsman Screw*d contest and without a doubt the results will have an affect. A positive affect of course.There are no more negative affects with me.

I just received a comment notice from my friend Raymond on youtube (12:55am) and I clicked on the link. This is my first time looking at the view count since last Thursday. I currently have 772 views. When I started I didn't pay attention to the views. I was focusing on the Youtube likes. I later found out that was the wrong focus. When I looked last (Last Thursday) I had approximately 109 Youtube likes compared to one other person who seemed to bring the most competition (Ron). He had 78 Youtube likes. 

Currently, I have 174 Youtube likes and he has 118. Nevertheless, those likes aren't a factor. We really can't even tell how many votes we have. The total votes are hidden because the banner on the video is the correct way to record all the votes. As for views I have 772 and he has 1,603. 

I am certain that if I continued promoting harder I would of stayed above his views and votes. I can only assume he has more votes because he has more views. That was my goal when it started and I did maintain dominance while I was mostly active. Furthermore, I made a precise decision and I am still comfortable with it. The voting is only about 33% of the final score and very soon we'll all know the results. 

Throughout the week, I felt really good about the potential outcome. After declaring and making the choice to win on My Past Does Not Direct My Future the only way for me to feel great. 

Final Thoughts

I won't begin to discuss my past but there are a handful of contests I haven't triumphed in previously. Through it all, it has only made me stronger. I couldn't help it but I at one point during the week I began to ponder about this hold process. It made me wonder if all of this has been too easy. So many of my blessings have manifested during unexpected circumstances. I am very positive that a break through is coming soon in my life but the advancement throughout this contest has almost been effortless to me.

Than again, many of my blessings have been near effortless compared to many hard tries. Through it all, it doesn't matter. Note: I'm not second guessing myself. I'm just pondering.

I'm currently in Cafe Novel off of Wilshire and Western. They closed at 11pm but the bar is still open. That worked out great for the writing of this post. I thought I had to find another post at 11pm.

Motown Maurice is enjoying a grilled chicken sandwish meal at Cafe Novel on Wilshire and Western, Los Angeles, CA

Since I moved into the community housing I've been spending a lot of time at cafe shops using the internet and drinking tea. I'll share more about my new found pleasure in tea drinking later. 

Well... I guess I should end this post now, get some rest and wait for the results. More than likely, I won't be impulsively waiting like I have with other contests in the past. I have too much going on to put so much of my energy into waiting on one thing. That's probably part of the reason why I seemed to have advanced so effortlessly. Throughout the process I just submitted, did what the asked me to do and I moved on. My mind was far from the thought of the contest when I received the first call back info. 

Lastly, I only spent one day of promoting and the people answered. Everyday for the past week, people made comments and expressed their support. Someone who heard me mention the contest during an interview on The Electric Carnival last Monday reached out to me on Facebook (Karen). She submitted her vote and shared with others. I don't even know this person. She said she was inspired by what I said on the podcast. The people indeed want me to succeed.

To all the people who have voted for me, Thank You Very Much.

THIS VICTORY IS FOR YOU!!!

IN ADDITION TO EVERY OTHER VICTORY THAT WILL FOLLOW.

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

The Never Ending Intuition of God's Omens

Post Recaps: Sunday, July 24, 2011

Last Sunday, July 17, 2011 my day started with a table read at Sharon’s house, one of my Lifebook Classmates. As we waited for one person to arrive our conversation spun into philosophical yet metaphoric dialogue. I think it started when I told Sharon and her mom that I told the Craftsman Crew*d Contest that I was a life coach. 

Then I started to figuratively expound on many of the potent messages Hollywood pours into its movies. From Inception to The Green Hornet, I broke down several thought provoking points that are displayed in movie magic. 

If I’m not mistaken, after mentioning the message of creation/imagination with The Green Hornet I tried to quote something Will Smith said in this video I posted while back. At a certain point in the video Will Smith mentioned how he loves the book The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I probably couldn’t even say the authors name right but Sharon new exactly what I was talking about. In the same moment she said to her self, “I believe I have that book.” In less than 5mins she came downs stairs with the book and she gave it to me to read. 

As I glanced through the first few pages, I realized its was a story. I thought all along it was a self-help book similar to Napoleon Hill’s writings. Sharon expressed thoroughly how great of a read the book is. Then the person we were waiting for arrived and she noticed the book in my hand and she shouted, “The Alchemist! I love that book,” Of course more conversation elevated our thoughts and we began to share so much wisdom and knowledge to each other. I even left lead in my spirit to encourage both Sharon and Raewyn (the last person to arrive) to join forces and write a movie together.

Not only did they both agree it was a great idea to write something together, Raewyn opened up a book in her hand for the first time and she landed on a chapter called, “Two heads are better than one.” That was a clear and precise omen from God. An omen is a commonly used term in The Alchemist. I’ve been reading that book ever since I left her home and I’m loving it. 

The reason I like it so much is because I am Sheppard Boy Santiago in the book. His epic journey profoundly parallels my quest. Santiago left everything behind in Spain to follow his dream, travel to Egypt in pursuit of a treasure in which he has no clue what it is. We’re talking about a boy that never left his homeland and all he ever knew was his sheep. 

For almost 10 years all I knew was my video camera and my photo camera. I had a comfortable life at one put but my desire to professionally take pictures was no longer fulfilling my soul. I put everything in storage, left the east coast and arrived on the west coast, Los Angeles, CA for the first time last September. Thus far, all my experiences are greater then I could ever imagined. Furthermore, I still have no clue exactly how I’m going to become a nationally syndicated late night talk show host. 

All Santiago knows is that he has to got to Egypt to find his treasure. All I know is I have to be in LA to accomplish my personal legend. Throughout his journey he received many omens to let him know he was on the right path. I would be writing this post for the next 10 days if I listed all the omens I constantly receive. There is a point in the beginning of the book when Santiago meets this old wise man who is actually a king and he claims he knows where Santiago must go to find his treasure. Santiago agrees to give him 1/3 of his sheep and the man tell him his treasure is in Egypt, near the Pyramids. Santiago became furious because he was expecting more information. He just met a gypsy that told him the same thing. 

The old man, then said, “In order to find the treasure, you will have to follow the omens. God has prepared a path for everyone to follow. You just have to read the omens that he left for you?” 

o·men
1. anything perceived or happening that is believed to portend a good or evil event or circumstance in the future; portent. 

2. a prognostic. 

3. prophetic significance; presage: a bird of ill omen.

Ladies and gentlemen there is no such thing as coincidence. God sends us omens and I have distinctly received several omens all my life specifically for the last 3-5 years. I haven’t finished The Alchemist yet I’m on page 100 and more than likely I will complete it pretty soon. Each page tells the story of Santiago the seeker in a unique and colorful way. Santiago and I are both in two different worlds yet my intuitive 6th sense tells me that he and I are one in the same.  

“The boy was beginning to understand that intuition is really a sudden immersion of the soul into the universal current of life, where the histories of all people are connected, and we are able to know everything, because it's all written there.

When you want something with all your heart, that's when you are closest to the Soul of the World. It's always a positive force.”

The Alchemist

Englishman to Santiago

On Friday (July 22, 2011) I had a sudden epiphany. It dawned on me that I am actually reading my story as it unfolds just like the 80’s childhood classic, “The Never Ending Story.”

“Bastian steals a book from the store called The Never Ending Story which Coreander has been reading; he hides in his school's attic, where he proceeds to read the story through the rest of the day and the night, not realizing that he has effectively become a part of it.”

- Wikipedia

Not only am I living my quest I am also reading about my own quest in other stories as it unfolds. In some other ways I am narrating it too.

Final Thought

An important lesson that I have discovered is all seekers, adventures, heroes, brave men, protagonist, risk takers, and warriors all endure very similar adversities, trials and tribulations. All the histories of these type of men are connected. The souls of most great people whom have roamed the earth are connected. That’s why I've been noticing my commonalities with great seekers in movies and/or stories.

I won’t publish this post until Wednesday 27, 2011 is over, because I’m leaving my blog's home page to the promotion of Craftsman Screw*d. I’m also writing this message from Tully’s Coffee shop off of Wilshire and Normandie because I’m in no rush to get back to get back to the community housing facility. Yesterday I wrote from the bunk bed of a strange place and today I’m writing from a coffee shop. I am truly a Rolling Stone. Without any clear knowledge of my future, I am confident and observant to the omens.

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice 

Week 44: Motown Maurice vs July 2011

In the blink of an eye is exactly how quickly someones life can be altered, delayed, extended, adjusted and aligned perfectly back in the appropriate path. While simultaneously reaching the pinnacle of advancement in a reality contest (Craftsman Screw*d) I am faced with my toughest adversities. This can only mean one thing. I am getting closer and closer to achieving my ultimate goal.

I know this because history continuously repeats itself and taunts all great men with similar trials and tribulations. I've read about it. I've witnessed it. I've been there, done that and I'm back in the fire again. Sometimes I wonderful if I go through these challenges again and again because I know so much. Hence, more and more I'm learning the language of the universe. The parallels of difficulty that every great man has ever experienced are no different than mine. Which an only mean my hard work and devotion will manifest into a remarkable testament used to make the soul of the earth happy and motivate millions upon millions of people.

If you are trying to identify the tone in which I am writing, its from my reading of the The Alchemist. A story of a great seeker that I could of easily of been in another life time. I am certain my spirit accomplished great things in another lifetime. As for my current life, I have a story to write. I'm writing and experiencing my story at the same time. Its an in and out of body experience at times.The experiences you are about to read about  below are enough to make one human quit. As for me, its just another obstacle I'm proudly looking forward to leaping over. 

Important Notice: 

Week 44 continues here: Token Black Guy (Craftsman Screw*d Evaluation)

For the 2nd week in a row, I'm leaving out all the details of Craftsman Screw*d contest. Currently, I'm in the top 5 and in the blink of an eye the results from this contest will instantly change the course of my life. For that reason, once my victory in my contest has been announced I will pour all the details
in one single post (generally).

Day 301 Sunday, July 17, 2011

* Today confirmed a second table read since (From the Table to the Stage). A few moments before arriving my agent (Cynthia) called to inform me about a hosting audition for tomorrow. Well aware of my Craftsman obligations the timing worked out perfectly. After she poured the details about the hosting audition, I began to share all the details about Craftsman that she didn't know yet. She remembered reading about the contest and as usual she expressed sincere joy and excitement towards me.

When the conversation concluded, all I could do was think whether it was possible to be a host of a new network and be apart of the Craftsman contest. I was informed that The Network Project was playing $4,000 per week which doesn't sound bad. For a moment I doubted the possibilities of getting both until I had a reality check from my table read partner Raewyn. I new better but some times even the greatest of men misuse his selection and the power of words.

* I took this photo below because I was feeling good and building confidence of my new no facial hair style. There was a point in time when I couldn't live without my goatee. Now I can't stand my facial hair. Not only am I not having ingrown hair problems from shaving anymore, everyone thinks I'm in my early 20's. Since I moved to LA I've going through a few growing and reestablishing pains. I've basically been through a handful of transformations. In another words... 30 really is the new 20. 

Motown Maurice without facial hair and he is loving it. That's a first.

Read Post: The Electric Carnival with guest host Motown Maurice

Day 302 Monday, July 18, 2011

* After my Craftsman my contest final process I ventured towards the Project Network hosting audition. Although the pay is $4,000 per week the duration is only 3 weeks. There is a possibility I could do both but I'm sure everything will happen for the best. I performed my best and I left the experience behind me.

Day 303 Tuesday, July 19, 2011

* (Craftsman Screw*d development. Look for links above and/or below)

Day 304 Wednesday, July 20, 2011

* Craftsman Screw*d voting begins.

Read Post: Motown Maurice is Screw*d - Please Help!


Day 305 Thursday, July 21, 2011

* Skipped acting class and decided to attend LA's Largest Networking Mixer XIII (www.LAMixer.com). My approach was very passive and I just walked around and around. The suddenly one after the other people started to approach me with divine interest. Its as thought people can sense my greatness. The principle of favor is active and radiant. These was once Jewish man in particular who asked me several questions about my quest and how I'm going to accomplish it. He even suggested I go to Oprah's office and stand out and wait for her. In the he said, "You definitely have the personality and I look forward to seeing you on television one day."  

LA's Largest Networking Mixer XIII

Motown Maurice is making contacts. The can feel the greatness.

LA's Largest Networking Mixer XIII

They asked me if I had a manager.

Day 306 Friday, July 22, 2011

* Began focusing on The Reading of Alchemist….

* Watched The Adjustment Beauro with my roommate (Our last movie viewing night)

Day 307 Saturday, July 23, 2011

* In the blink of an eye I went from freeloading into a nice apartment...

Motown Maurice living good near Melrose & Santa Monica

Then in another blink I was homeless.

Motown Maurice is homeless on Pico & Normandie

My new roommate seems quiet at the least.

Motown Maurice's new roommates

* Read Post: Life Styles of the Storage & Community Housing

* Read Post: Peace Surpasses All Understanding 

Final Thoughts

The stakes are high in each corner of my life right now. 

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Peace Surpasses All Understanding

Written: Saturday, July 23, 2011

I am currently writing from a community housing facility. I am on the top bunk bed and in a room with two strange men I just met today.

Motown Maurice on a bunk bed of his new residency

I’ve been staying with my Interim Guardian Angel who I now refer to as my Adjuster for the extended past 22 days. Only one day we parted and that when I slept in the theater of my acting class, The Lifebook Playhouse. This is my first time revealing the location. I didn’t mention where I slept previous because I thought it was too soon.   

Few days ago, I was informed that my roommate’s new roommate will be officially moving in today and now I am officially moved out. She has been a blessing to me for over 10 months and that blessing has finally come to an end. As I always say, “All good blessings come to an end to make room for new blessings. This is far my greatest challenge thus far in LA but I am at peace. I am at peace with my past, present and future. I feel really good throughout my body. Indeed, I would prefer to be comfortably living in my own place but I must first past this test. This arrangement is only temporary. 

An unknown future path of my quest awaits the results of the Craftsman Screw*d contest. This past Wednesday was the official start of the voting aspect of the contest. I’ve been building a strategy for the contest since I received word that I was a top 5 finalist. I was fully invoked in the marketing/promoting needs for votes to win. On this (My Past Does Not Direct My Future) I made the divine decision to win this contest.  Then just over a week later, one of the corresponding contest representatives completely redirected my concentration. I won’t get into detail right now but the person basically stated that some of the votes I was receiving were “liked” in the wrong places.

Immediately, I was disturbed by that email because of their poor job to provide proper instructions on the voting process. I following up with 3 emails and a phone call to address my discontentment with their flawed voting system. For some reason they decided not to communicate back. Subsequently, I decided not to participate in the voting process anymore. I invested in way over 12 hours of non stop marketing and promotion during the first day and I refuse to waste my time and effort if communication isn’t reciprocated. 

I don’t understand why but for some reason these contests can’t ever get the voting systems right. My decision not to maintain activity in the voting process isn’t a translation for giving up. Never that! It’s a decision that resonated peace upon my soul. The voting process only represents a percentage of the final score and I’ve already put in my work. I won’t put in any more work into a process that won’t communicate back. Overall, I put in a lot of work and my decision will allow the hands of fate/destiny to step in.

As a result of my decision, I indulged myself into continuing the reading of The Alchemist. That ushered in peace throughout my mind, body and soul to follow.

My current peaceful state is the absolute opposite of my previous contest state of being. I recall the non-peaceful state I was in during Oprah’s Your Own Show Contest. Even though, I was in contact with the producers I always felt over qualified and uneasy about the process. 

January of this year, the team I formed, “Complex Unit” was a semi finalist for the current running show “Expedition Impossible” and although I maintained confidence I was not at peace.

Last month, I was a top contender for an Animal Planet pilot. Within two days, I met the executive producers and received a physical. 3 days from those meetings, I began feeling ill at ease and soon after I was informed I would obtain the status as an alternate. As an alternate I was placed in a just in case position and they never used me for the pilot. In all of those scenarios, I exerted all the energy I could and the results never favored me in the end. 

Now I am in a community housing facility and I could be doing so much more with the voting process to secure top votes but I’m not. I am at peace with my decision and what the future holds. I know as a fact that votes are still coming in just from the effort I put in on that day one. I’ll leave it at that.

My Energy Don’t Lie

Something is about this happen. I can feel it. My senses don’t lie. I clearly remember approximately this time last year, basketball was my escape from reality and soon enough, it no longer fulfill me. The beard that I was growing, better known as my Beard Protest became strings to pluck at. During my last 3 years in Tampa my passion to capture memories for my clients events started to dwindle away. My video and photography desires were coming to an end and I clearly saw all the signs. I say all this because I’ve been noticing the signs/omens in my life that indicate change. 

Since March I’ve been very blessed and devoted to my acting class but even that desire has started to shed away.  I see the signs, I am being patient and attentive to make sure I don’t miss the clues needed to move forward. 

I was talking to my partner Reggie earlier today and I told him my situation and he told me he would of already quit by now. I strongly believe the reason why I am at peace is because I am seeing the signs and change is about to happen. Here are a few profound statements I paraphrased from The Alchemist.

-          The closer you get to the realization of your dream, the more difficult things become.

-          In pursuit of the dream, you are constantly subjected to the test of persistence and courage.

-          Do not be hasty nor impatient.

-          If you push forward impulsively you will fail to see the sign and omens left by God along the path.

Pending on my victory in the Craftsman Screw*d Contest I will be relocated to Chicago for 3 months. In less than a week my own life can change with the receipt of a phone call or email.  Knowing the possibility in which I proclaimed, I am sleeping in the community housing facility at peace.

Motown Maurice sleeping in the community housing facility on the top bunk bed.

 
Just because I made it as a top 5 finalist I got paid $250.00. My mom sent a very generous donation early this week. In the mail she sent also included a small check of $100.00 from one of my Ked Barber shop Commercial. Then today, my blessed friend Rosie blessed me with a $100.00 donation through Pay Pal. It has been a while since anybody other than my mom sent me any type of donation. 

Final Thoughts

The few things I listed provides me a decent cushion to survive until it’s time to leave for Chicago.  I am at peace, Wide aWoke and I recognizing the signs. These are the same signs I’ve been experiencing through my life. These are the same signs that told me it was time to leave Tampa and attend college in Tallahassee, FL in 1999.  These are the exact same signs that told me to leave Tallahassee, FL and return back to Tampa in 2004. This is the mere reflection of the signs that told it was time to start my own business in March of 2004.

I know the signs and I am grateful and patient.

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Life Styles of the Storage & Community Housing

Post Represents: Saturday, July 23, 2011

Since Week 41  also known as the The Rolling Stone Chapter. I introduced to you all my storage room. There is photo visible on the link but more more then likely the comprehension of my conditions probably aren't clear to you. Once a day, or once every other day...sometimes twice a day I'm at my storage getting things and changing my clothes. This is where I keep my belongings since I don't have a stable place to live. So you can understand a little bit better, I've made MTV Cribs spoof of my situation. Ladies and gentlemen, introducing MTV Storage Room.





Today is the day I've been preparing for approximately since March. I had a minor forthcoming Day 289 Tuesday, July 5, 2011 but it ended up being a false alarm thanks to my My Interim Guardian Angel/Adjuster.
Furthermore, today is the day I become homeless. Depending how you look at it some might as I'm sub-par homeless.

Like any natural disaster, I've planned a head and prepared myself for this predicament. Once I left my storage, immediately I took a seat on the nearest bench to pondered on life for a second. This is what some might consider a knock down. Thus, all the greats know it doesn't matter how hard you hit or how many times you get knocked down. The only thing that matters is getting back up. 

I'm not going to lie. I have some homeless looking feet right now.

Motown Maurice is pondering.

Two bags, crackers, a drink and one mango in hand.

Motown Maurice newest roommates

"Where there is a will there is always a way!"

Motown Maurice: "Enough pondering I need to be reading The Alchemist"

So for the next hour or more I literally had no place to live or sleep. However, months ago I knew about a community housing where you can pay by the day or week. I never recorded the number and for some reason I had problems finding a sign. Normally those posting are every where. I eventually found it and checked in for one week.   

Life Styles of the Community Housing

Welcome to my new room.

Motown Maurice has the top bunk and is focused on The Alchemist. 

Final Thoughts

This is how I'm living. There is so much to share about this type of housing and even more interesting the type of people I'm living with. I've been told that a majority of them have or had some type of substance abuse problem. The signs are obvious with some. I'm not the one to judge. Actually, I have nothing but great things to say about my two roommates. One in particular is extremeously intelligent and I've been learniing a lot from him. I honestly prefer to be around him then several people/family  know.

Before or when this arrangement is all over (God willing it will be soon) I will express this full experience in another post. For now, I can only wonder why I've been put in this predicament. Is it possible that there is a lesson for me to learn by living with them? Will they provide me clues towards accomplishing my quest? Am I suppose to teach or send them a message. Will I be used as a vessel to help substance abuse people in the future? Or is this a test of courage, persistence and will? 

I don't know yet but what I do know is that I am at peace. 

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Motown Maurice is Screw*d - Please Help!

Ladies and Gentlemen, I have been chosen by Craftsman Tools as one of America’s Top 5 Most Unhandy-men. Now I need your “Vote/Like” to become the star of their 3 month reality web series. During the series, I will undergo grueling training sessions, survival challenges and become the Ultimate Handyman.



Please Vote by “LIKEing” my video ASAP. Click on the Green Thumbs Up "Like" Button. Thank you

Share with everyone you know!

If you don’t have a Youtube account, open one today. It’s Free.

Motown Maurice is Craftsman Screw*d

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v​=W6PQNOanaCA

You can also vote and see full contest details here: (1) Click here http://www.youtube.com/craftsm​an          (2) Press Vote. (3) Find my video. (4) Like my video.

Thank you very much for all your support!!!

Next Related: 

Token Black Guy (Craftsman Screw*d Evaluation)

Previous Related:Craftsman Screw'd Reality Show Audition Submission

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Week 43: I WILL NEVER SAY NEVER!!!

I am a few days behind on this post but for all fantastic reasons. An unforeseen hand of Craftsmanship has recently created a new path for me. It all started with this submission: Craftsman Screw'd Reality Show Audition Submission. 

Once I submitted that video, I moved on and barely even thought about it afterward. As graciously as the sun rises everyday, my hindrance of from the shadows of "they always go another direction in the end," was rebuked. All in one week, I advanced from a top 20 finalist to a secure position in the top 5.

My intentions were to expound all the details that lead me to this position all in this post but I think it will be more exciting to tell the full story later with a theme of victory. For now I have to focus on defeating an old enemy of mine. Its been a whole year since we faced each other. That's right. You know who I'm talking about. I'm talking about that Evil Online Voting Process.

Twice, this time last year we faced each other. Both times the voting process exasperated me. First I had a intensive battle with The Chamber of Commerce Free Enter Prize Contest. Following that I had a short lived bout with Oprah's Your Own Show Contest. I won't necessary label them as failure because it ultimately lead me to The City of Angels.

Here I am, one year later, closer then I have ever been in terms of competing in a reality contest and "I Will Never Stay Never!!!"

Very Important! Please Read!

What your about to read is a limited version of this weeks post. I intentionally took out all Craftsman Screw*d updates. Please See this weeks complete review here: Token Black Guy (Craftsman Screw*d Evaluation)

Day 294 Sunday, July 10, 2011

* Blogging...

Day 295 Monday, July 11, 2011

* I finally visited the LA famous hot dog shop Pink's. I basically live across the street from them right now. I got a Jalapeno Hot Dog. It was very big but I still was hungry afterward.

Motown Maurice visits Pink's for the first time.

Day 296 Tuesday, July 12, 2011

* Read Post: My Past Does Not Direct My Future

* After leaving new barber I walked past last barber to get to my favorite pizza shop. To my surprize my last barber called me because he noticed me from across the street. I won't mention anything else but I thought it was partly funny. 

Motown Maurice: "Its Pizza Time"

Day 297 Wednesday, July 13, 2011

* Cable man came to set up the TV today.

* I dropped off a cable box for my roommate and on the way home I walked into a barbershop out of curiosity called 215 Executives. I saw someone familiar but for some reason I thought it was someone familiar from Tampa. He told me his name was Jalen and shoot my hand. Not until I left and started walking a few feet did I realize he was Jalen Rose NBA analyst for ESPN.

Motown Maurice meets Jalen Rose

 * Changed clothes at my storage room.

* Received an update about the old school themed auditions from Day 275 Tuesday, June 21, 2011. I forwarded the information to my agent for verification, she made a phone call and they called me shortly afterward. That's what you call power. Apparently its not a buyout anymore but I will get to feature at a decent price. It will be a one to two day shoot at the end of the month. 

Day 298 Thursday, July 14, 2011

* Read Post: Excuse me! Did you Excuse me?

* Attended and took pictures at LIfebook acting class. See photos here:

Day 299 Friday, July 15, 2011 

* Happy birthday Ma!!!!

* Read Post: From the Table to the Stage

* Took a load off at Sizzler

Motown Maurice eating Shrewd Shrimp at Sizzler.

Day 300 Saturday, July 16, 2011

* I treated my roommate to In n Out Burger and I showed her some tablets I adore at Best Buy. Then we made it a Redbox with Beastly. Following that we watched Barbershop 2. Adam in my acting class gave it to me brand new on Thursday because someone left it in his car. 

Final Thoughts

As I write, I'm in the 3rd day of week 44 (Wednesday, July 20, 2011). I'm very aware of what lies ahead. There are several challenges. It also appears my Rolling Stone will resume again soon. Most importantly,  the supreme wave of triumph awaits. I'm looking forward to the good life. Evil Voting Process!!! Bring it on!!

I WILL NEVER SAY NEVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As the quest continues...


The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

From the Table to the Stage

Post Represents: Friday, July 15, 2011

This is where it all begins. Well...it really starts in the mind of the writer, then its drafted on paper. After all that, then the table read phase begins. Today (Happy Birthday Ma!!!) was the first table read of a new scene I'll be performing in called Sister/Brother. We'll be putting it up on our Lifebook acting class fairly soon. Its written and directed by Sharon Spence and she cast myself, Raewyn and her mom Phoebe. Its great piece and we're all excited about bringing it to life. 

Motown Maurice, Raewyn, Phoebe & Sharon during the first table read. 

Motown Maurice, Raewyn, Phoebe & Sharon during tabling reading Sister/Brother.

 

Final Thoughts

Something keeps telling me I better get ready for many more table reads in the near future.

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Excuse me! Did you Excuse me?

Post Recaps: Thursday, July 14, 2011

This is how the story unfolds. One moment I was mediating/sleeping and in another moment the phone rang (Day 284 Thursday, June 30, 2011) and it was the producer from the CBS show Excused. The same show I was a part of in May. This is exactly what the producer said. "Hey Motown, this is... from the show Excused. I just got off the phone with the executive producers and they said we have to have this guy back." After I declared my opportunity of redemption he told me that very few people get a call back to be on the show for a 2nd episode.

Moving forward, today I appeared for a second episode and I won't even beat around the bush. It did not go as well as the last Excused episode. My day ended fairly quickly. I was so ready to redeem myself and fulfill a full day experience but not this time.

On the positive note, the whole production staff was thoroughly happy to see me. The moment I arrive one person gave me a hug and other embraced me with love. One of the other guys competing even asked how did you know all those people. Since I was trying to play "the game" better this time I just told him, "we worked on another project in the past. I didn't want any of the guys to know I was on the show before.

Motown Maurice on another episode of Excused

Motown Maurice is excused and dropped home in a limo.

Final Thoughts

I'm far from worried about the girls not picking me because I was picked by the production team way before them. They ain't ready for my style and authenticity. I remember in my acting class on the day of the last episode, I made jokes indicating the ladies aren't feeling me right now. Then one of my classmates Kelly told me, "Who cares if those girls aren't feeling you right now. They producers are feeling you. They are much more important." Great Caesar's Ghost she was right. Not only did they call me back for another episode the were all happy to see me.

Although my day ended sooner than planned. I sure my presents was one to remember. There is much more to reveal but I'll wait until the episodes are released in September. 

Previous Next Related: All Around Wack! He Wack (Excused)

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

The Electric Carnival with guest host Motown Maurice

Post Recaps: Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Introducing The Electric Carnival with Eric Erickson and guest Host Motown Maurice. It was a joyful moment to receive the phone call for this opportunity. Eric and I connected back in March when he invited me as a guest on The Red Viking Show.

Eric Erickson & Motown Maurice on The Electric Carnival

Not only was the experience great, it was more so beneficial towards my desire to improve my wittiness and delivery with current events. At the time. I was thoroughly into the news and my late night talk shows. As a result, I believe my knowledge emerged out well. Check out the show below and let me know what you think.




Related Post: Motown Maurice returns to The Carnival!

Final Thoughts

I haven't listened to the show since but that's only because its hard for me to listen to my own voice at times. Thus, my memory of the opportunity was great. I have nothing but love for Eric Erickson. He's one of my few epic Craig's List success stories. I told him I'll love to come back on again and indeed he called me with another invite recently. I haven't set a date to reappear yet because I'm waiting for one of big projects to break big. It would be nice to come back on to reveal some big news.

Please support Eric and The Electric Carnival on the links following links. You can check out my interview and on his ITunes Preview or go straight to his page on Facebook: The Electric Carnival Facebook Page. 


Also check out:

www.TheElectricCarnival.com


As the quest continues...


The Future of Late Night


Motown Maurice

My Past Does Not Direct My Future

Post Represents: July 12, 2011

I met a barber named Orlando at the Pro Keds Barbershop Internet Commercial. He showed me a picture of a High Top Fade he use to have back in the days. Plus he recommended the product Tend Skin that cleared up my face from ingrown hairs. As a result, he gave me enough confidence to have him cut my hair. I gave him a try today.

The last barber I tried was better then the previous ones, but I'm still on a search for that barber that compares to my barber in Tampa.

Motown Maurice before his hair cut.

Motown Maurice & Orlando after the cut up.

I left fairly content with the way my hair was looking. Its more boxy then usual which provides a different feel for me. Its not yet at the size I desire, but its been a long year trying to get it right again since my High Top Meltdown. 

I left feeling a new breath of life in my High Top and that was most important to me. On the way home a girl yelled out of her car, "I like your hair." As I was crossing the street she keep saying I should get some parts, lines and stuff in it until her street light turned green. That was encouraging and I see the possibilities of becoming 100% satisfied soon.

Moreover, my hair cut has little to do with the moral of this post. It has something to do with what my barber Orlando said to me. The few times we spoke he's encouraged me to pick back up on my photography skills or to get a job so I can bring some money in. All of his advice makes sense but today I explained to him that I don't give money that much power. I also pointed that I'm all about the risk with no plan B available. In a few words I told him I was crazy.

Respectfully, we ask each other whats going on career wise and I told him about the Craftsman Screwd audition in which I am currently a finalist for. Overall, my report of recent develop was good and I told him I know something is going to pop soon. I was positive, but towards the end of the conversation I selected a few poor choice words that was immediately correct by him.

At one point of the conversation I told him I've been a finalist several times in other contests but they always go another direction in the end. That's when Orlando cut me off and correct me.  He's said, "They always went a different direction in the past." I immediately agreed with him.The main reason I agreed with him so fast is because I know better than to say things like that. The direction that those shows have taken is my past and it doesn't represent my future. His correction triggered a chemical reaction that quickly began to spread through my body.

Later that night I started to research the Craftsman Screw*D contest with passion. Part of me felt like I shouldn't put that much energy into it yet but the other part of me overcame that feeling. When I'm excited about something I fully engage. Truthfully, I wasn't even thinking about this contest until I received an unexpected email over the weekend, followed up with a phone call on Monday that started to redirected all my energy.

Then today happened. Orlando corrected my poisonous choice of words that I have been using on my quest. Several times this year I've said, "I know how to get to the finals but they always go another direction in the end." I can't keep saying that because if I continue to do so, those words will take a life of its own. Yes, they have taken a different direction in the past but not anymore.

Later that night, as I indulged myself in research about the show I thought about everything that happened today and repeat events in my past. Then I made a bold decision to win this contest. Yesterday, I was informed through email that I am in the top 10. Now they are in the process of picking the top 5. Once the top 5 is selected the voting doors are open to the public. Votes by the public will then determine the winner.

Now...I'm not very fond of contests that includes voting but if I am selected as the top 5 I'm taking home the gold. Mark my word! I will win this contest. There is so much more to reveal about the excitement that is building inside of me. Indeed, I will share in time. As for now, I'm just patiently waiting for the word of advancement. Once its received, I will achieve.

As the quest continues...


The Future of Late Night

Motown Maurice

Week 42: A Taste of Hardship

I want to start off this post by professing my break through. After over 9 months of battling with bumps on my face, I have finally solved my ingrown hair problem. Mixed with excessive use of real African Shea Butter and the recent purchase of the product called Tend Skin. I am now proud to say the war is over. The shaving area of my face is looking better than it has ever looked before. This is a great week for my face.  Hip Hip Hooray!!!

In as much as I am happy about my face and its victory. Which I truly am. My face is my money maker. It really looked horrible at times and I spent a lot of money on different products trying to cure the condition. Moreover, I just would of preferred to be professing a breakout in my quest right now. Instead, I was introduced to the chapter of Hardships this week.

Thank God the hardship of where to sleep only lasted one day. Since Wednesday the most annoying remaining hardship has been trying to balance off the challenge of timing out arrangements back and forth to my storage room to change clothes.  

Day 287 Sunday, July 3, 2011

* I took my usual trip to the movies and watched The Green Lantern & Transformers.

* On the way home, I received a phone call from the casting director of the bachelor’s reality show application and I filled out last Saturday. We never meet but he’s the link behind how I get connect with Baggage. The conversation was very insightful and it rejuvenated my energy even more. By the time I got off the phone I had a plan of action and an appointment set to interview for the reality show King of The Island.

Day 288 Monday, July 4, 2011

* I spent most of my 4th of July at Star Bucks using the internet to finishing up last week's 42 review. Last Saturday, I made a phone call to one of my Lifebook class members who offered to help me when the time came near. She returned my call today with what sounded like a promising offer. I was shocked with a sense of happiness and blessing.  

Day 289 Tuesday, July 5, 2011

* I woke up this morning leaving my roommates home in which I thought was for the last time. 

* Storage room visit to change clothes.

* I had an audition for a new game show called The Great Escape. The call came in on Wednesday, June 28, 2011. The call was triggered by a email submission I titled Team Rush Hour. Basically, my friend MT is Asian and I made up a story stating that people call us Team Rush Hour because we remind them of Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan.

I was told that I could come to the audition/interview with 2 extra people. I arrived with MT, Chuck and Dionna. Over all, our presentation had high energy and we made everyone laugh. In the end they didn’t pick any of us. It was disappointing yet understandable. Applying for reality shows over time has made me a great story teller and I’m getting better at it. Nonetheless, there is a sense of realness that can’t be faked in front of the casting directors.

Of course I’m use to results like this but there was one person who came with me, whose name I won’t mention. That person was completely negative about the outcome. Stating things like, “I knew this was going to be a waste of time. This reality show stuff is a waste. I need to focus on my craft and not on reality.” I don’t do well with negativity anymore and at the time I thought it was very ungrateful for the person to say such things.

Shortly afterward, I made a partially conscience decision not to communicate with that person anymore. The next day that person called and left a sincere apology message. I haven’t called back yet but I will. The message was noble at the same time I’m still trying to rid myself from that negativity.

* 2nd storage room visit to change clothes. 

* Audition notice from agent for Go Daddy commercial tomorrow. 

* I went to the Pico library in Korea town to use the internet. I didn't feel like bringing my laptop around with me everywhere I went. I had to fill out an online application for King of The Island. The public computers only allowed 15mins each setting. I got to the very end of the application with 1min to go but it wouldn’t submit and I ran out of time. I lost everything. After a moment of grief I was smart enough to ask about the process of getting a library card. I was doubtful because I didn’t have a California’s license but they gave me one with lesser privileges. I’m now able to use the computer at any library in LA for extended periods of time. I think I’m even able to check out one book at time. I'm very happy about that.

I filled out the application for King of the Island right before they closed. After that I needed to eat a full meal. I journeyed throughout the whole day without any place to rest so I had to get some food in my system to keep my immune system strong. As a result, I made a stop at Denny’s.

Motown Maurice purchases Orange Juice for the needed Vitamin C

Motown Maurice eat a grand slam plus to sets of pancakes.

* After Denny’s it was already late in the evening and I could only wish for access to my jacket. It was cool outside. Unfortunately, a simple wish like that isn't an option for me at this time because my storage room closes at 6pm.

* I took pictures of the Tuesday night Lifebook class. See photos here. 

* My true hardship began tonight with my uncomfortable sleeping condition. 

Read Post: This Is Not Comfortable!

* Right before I called it a night in my undisclosed sleeping location around 11:03pm, I received a call from one my agents staff Scotti. It’s the 2nd time he called me late and he says he doesn’t call anyone like that but he’s obviously excited about making things happen for my career. He says he rarely come across someone like me that has as much passion as I do. I haven't even met the guy yet but he's full blast 100% on board to help me out. I can’t help but feel good when ever I receive a phone call like this from anyone in my agents office. The phone call was powerful and very momentous.

Day 290 Wednesday, July 6, 2011

* Woke up from my undisclosed sleeping location with no where to shower. 

* Storage visit to change clothes.

* Auditioned for the Go Daddy commercial. It was very simple. No real talking involved. They will most likely pick based on looks. 

* King of the Island interview. If I get cast for this show I'll be on a island for 30 days with 10 beautiful women. Its suppose to be a edgy spin off of the bachelor. With that being said, you can only imagine all the interesting and personal questions they asked me. 

* 2nd Storage room clothes change.

* Received a audition notice from my agent for a car commercial with Samsung tomorrow.

* Called my Lifebook classmate as planned in regards to arrangements she suggested that could help me but but no return call.

My Interim Guardian Angel strikes again

As I was waiting for the return phone call I went to Starbucks to kill time and use the internet. I was so tired from the whole day I fell asleep at Starbucks for God knows how long. Then the phone rang. It wasn't the person I was expecting but it was my Interim Guardian Angel. My recent former roommate. It’s only been one day now since we've been roommates technically but it was her. First she called and left a message and I called her back.

She called to check up on me. She convinced me to tell her where I slept last night. Immediately afterward, she told me that her new roommate won’t be moving in until the end of the month. Then she offered I stay with her at her new place a little bit longer.

Since my call was never returned my only option was to sleep in that same place from last right. I am so grateful for this offer from my roommate. She really is my Interim Guardian Angel.

Day 291 Thursday, July 7, 2011

* Storage room visit to change clothes

* Audition for Samsung. Its a commercial based on changing looks and appearances of people through the times. Its only suppose to air in Korea. At first this felt like a definite book but there is no telling. I'm not even sure if their time line is going to make it past the 1970's or not.

* Made a visit to my potentially new barbershop and picked up some Tend Skin.

Day 292 Friday, July 8, 2011

* Very sluggish and low energy most of the day. Before I left the house I medicated and yelled to the universe for power and results.

* I went to In & Out Burger to boost my energy with some food but it didn’t work.


* Went to the Library off of Sunset Blvd to use the internet.

* Arrived home to slept off my low energy and depression.

Day 293 Saturday, July 9, 2011

* Went to the Lifebook Play House to assist as the stage manager.

* When I got home I got notification from my Gmail account about the Craftsman contest. This contest was the last thing on my mind. I wasn't even paying attention to the details. I'm currently in the top 20 and they needed me to fill out more information and get one sheet notarized by tomorrow. I wasn't sure if I was going to get it notarized in time but my research found a UPS store and I made it a happen for $10 on Sunday morning.

* Made it a Blockbuster Express night – Inception &  Just Wright. 

Final Thoughts

I am thankful that my stone is not rolling as much as I thought it was going to initially, My Interim Guardian Angel saved my life once again. I had a one day experience of the rolling stone life that I was anticipating and its rough. Its hard enough going to my storage room once or twice a day but always having to be thinking about where to sleep is exhausting.

Its one thing to be homeless and be mostly in one place. Its another thing if your homeless, have to prepare for auditions without a proper place to rest and wash up. Not to mention how much harder and costly it is to eat well always on the move. This week was rough. I don't want to live like this. I know I've paid my dues but where is my break through. My face got its break through but what about my whole body, mind and soul. 

Last week I wrote in good faith that something great was going to happen with in the next two post. Yes, my great Interim Guardian Angel saved me again but that's not what I had in mind. I'm in the top 20 for Craftsman contest but I've been in the top 20/finals several times before. I need a fabulous breakthrough.

From time to time, someone suggests to me the option of getting a job. When I think about doing that I think about death. Not only am I not hire-able I wouldn't even waste the time of the employer. As a business owner myself I respect the business very much.

Upon arriving in LA I stated that I have no plan B. As a matter of fact is in my blog synopsis. "After much success and disappointment from hosting live talk shows in his hometown Tampa, FL, this seeker relocated to L.A. on September 19, 2010 to begin an epic journey that does not consist of a plan B...."

Those words are real to life. I haven't been seeking any plan B and I don't plan to. All I can do is take it one week at a time but I have to be honest to myself. I'm getting tired. I'm not giving up but I am getting tired. I don't want to live like this anymore. I need a better life and I want it now.

As the quest continues...

The Future of Late Night 

Motown Maurice