More Than Kids

Auburn Media in Berkeley 2010

This week, while preparing for current assignments, I have also been collecting photo galleries for my new wordpress blog. Occasionally, the two projects intersect. 

One example is an ongoing assignment with The Beatitudes Society. Last summer I photographed Auburn Media's West Coast media training day with The Beatitudes Society members. Macky Alston, Senior Director, Auburn Media and Communications trains religious leaders to use media channels effectively. Macky is the rare trainer who reveal his failures as well as his successes. His humility is powerful. Yes he was on Oprah, and yeah, he did not do so well the first time.

Auburn-Media-Training-Berkeley - Images by bryan farley

According the to Auburn Media website, "Auburn equips bold and resilient leaders who can bridge religious divides, build community, pursue justice, and heal the world." The Beatitudes Society trains "emerging Christian leaders as they build a progressive network for justice, compassion and peace."

August Burns Red during the Vans Warped Tour

Two days ago, I heard the Ozzy Osbourne song "Crazy Train." The over used introduction is so popular that when I heard Ozzy scream, "All aboard!" I assumed that I was going to hear another commercial. I almost changed the station before the song was ruined again. Instead, I was able to listen to a classic rock song with common rock themes that reminded me why I like the Vans Warped Tour.

Crazy, but that's how it goes
Millions of people, living as foes
Maybe, it's not to late
To learn how to love
And to forget how to hate

Outsiders might think of Ozzy as a crazy person who preaches craziness, but he is someone who tried to make sense of the madness he inherited. Many of the bands at Vans Warped do something similar.

August Burns Red plays loudly. The tattooed lead singer likely screams, and some people at the local grocery store might misunderstand him, but Jacob "Jake" Luhrs screams about redemption and salvation. Jake and his wife have also created a non-profit to help others learn how to love. To learn more about Jake see his non-profit at Heart Support.

To see the band, look below and/or launch the slideshow.

 

August Burns Red Vans Warped - Shoreline - Images by bryan farley

Trinity Santa Barbara Wedding

This afternoon I will attend an important wedding at my old church. Before I started attending Trinity Santa Barbara many years ago, I may not have thought this was possible. 

I have not lived in Santa Barbara for many years, but I still visit. The last time I visited, I wrote about Trinity Santa Barbara on my blog.