ignitepdx

Originally uploaded by dieselboi.

I had meant to liveblog the event last night, but I felt I was too far away to take good photos and typing on my new cameraphone just isn’t that fun. Then, with all good intentions, I had planned a post for last night, but the transit ride home took a lot out of me. Woe is me, I know. IgnitePortland was a blast. While I was initially turned off by the huge crowd waiting in the two block line, I’m glad we decided to attend after we got beers across the street. Yep, I didn’t stand in any line. Hee hee. We were at risk of being turned away, but my girl BLF used her Jedi powers to get us past the fuzz.

The presentations were great. You could tell the presenters were excited about what they were presenting, but were nervous about being in front of a crowd. All in all, everyone did a top notch job. Some highlights:

Kelly Guimont (our own BLF) did a presentation on Pepper. Yep Pepper. It was historical, informative, fun and just right for the crowd. I feel I know so much more about where pepper comes from. Also Ramses II had pepper in his nose when discovered….

Peat Bakke did a great presentation on photographing abandoned places. I was intrigued by this one as I feel Portland really doesn’t have many abandoned buildings. He’s on my list of people to connect with.

Jessica Bruder taught us all the ways and means on how to become an undercover hooker. And you could look across the crowd at all the people asking themselves - hey, can I do that? Great topic and the crowd were enthralled throughout - mostly laughing.

Highlights cont.

Living a Made up Life - Adrienne Fritze’s presentation gave me pause in a good way. Her mantra that you can modify your life script was exactly what I’m thinking about these days. We can all change for the better.

David Hasselhoff….what else does anyone have to say? Mario Schulzke informed us why Germany loved the DH. The best reason was that the Germans were brainwashed from childhood because the same voice for Kermit the frog did the voiceovers for David Hasselhof. It’s pure psychology.

I’m so glad I stuck around. I met some new people, connected with some old colleagues and had a blast. Yes, it was a bit crowded. Too bad they had to turn people away. I do know they are looking at IgnitePortland 3, so watch for it. Thanks all for a great evening.

Related posts:

1. Liveblogging IgnitePortland
2. Portland On Fire
3. Interstate Ave - abandoned before and now?
4. Did I make a difference?
5. They pepper-sprayed babies