I am one of the lucky ones. I’m certainly not one of the elusive 1%, and, unless there’s some sort of lottery winning in my future, I don’t stand a chance (nor does it seem at all appealing). Shit, I went to art school, so I can only hope I’ll be worth more after I die. But unlike most of the Americans (that are fortunate enough to even have jobs at this point), I have made my living doing stuff I’d do whether or not I got paid to do it. For the last ten years (somehow I made it that long) I’ve worked for myself, and, while I can pay my bills and live my life, I’m also well aware that America is fucked. But I’m lucky and I realize that. I switched to a much smaller local credit union this week… something I should have done a long time ago. Anyway, a few times in the last few weeks I’ve checked out the Occupy Portland protest camps, and, while I would have expected them to thin out over time, the two city blocks filled with tents have only gotten (seemingly) more crowded. While things were peaceful, a few police officers kept watch at a distance across the road. For now, all still seems well in regards to the city’s acceptance of peaceful protest. Check out a heap more photos after the jump. Photos can be viewed larger by clicking.

One Hour With Ben Hucke from Souney Media on Vimeo.

Went out this morning and filmed this short edit with Haro rider Ben Hucke a few blocks from my house. One spot, one morning, one hour (ish). Just another day of shredding…

I posted a few photos of Ben recently you should check as well here. You can also watch this video on YouTube and on BFD.com.

2009 Forest Grove BMX Jam from Souney Media on Vimeo.

Odyssey BMX product designer Ben Ward is originally from Forest Grove, Oregon and helped design the skatepark there a few years back. Every summer he comes home for a week of vacation and holds a jam at the park. I missed out last year, but this year I was in town and the weather was perfect. A bunch of local Pros and shredders showed up and killed it, including some names from the past… you’ll see a Jeremy Davis toothpick grind in there if you pay attention. I didn’t shoot any photos, but made this little video edit instead. You can also check it out at BFD.com along with a bunch of cool videos from the recent Action Sports World Tour stops.