|
December
2009
December 31, 2009
Ralph;
Happy
New Year Ralph..hope you enjoy a happy healthy new year with lots of
surf and great photos
Ed
Same to you my friend...same to you.
December
30, 2009
Ralph,
Just
got your RUN DVD last night when I got home from the HR, and
thanks for that. Watched it this morning, and dug it. Here’s some
impressions:
*The
intro; thank GOD you came to your senses and began doing those intro’s
again in your films. They are an integral part of what you do, and my
guess is many others were telling you the same thing.
*Wave
size: God bless you for now introducing the culture to my penis measurement
thing as compared to wave height measurement. That was a good one.
*Cracky? I was cracking up, though your Daughter should have really
laid into you much harder.
*Who was that bald guy on that wild little squigg board? That thing
was kinky.
*Kassia Meador is beautiful, though her riding that board would like
me riding a 27’ surfboard if
you compute the weight to float formula…in other words, it’s
easier to glide around when you have the floatation of the SS Nimitz.
*Little Mackey V? He ain’t so little any more.
I
loved all of it Thanks again, it was highly enjoyable.
Jeff (Central Cal)
Thanks...it's hard to believe that is my 15th movie since 1999.
December
29, 2009
Hey Merry Happy again my friend nice column this week
The RUN Movie was killer. great waves man we have been lucky I really
love the empty wave stuff but I could be in the minority there.
Thanks So much for using my music it really means alot to me!
Skip
Thanks
Skip and thank you for Todo Bien tunes.
December 22, 2009
Ralphy,
Even
if we can’t agree on politics, we can unite in our singular hatred
of golfing.
Nobody
is loving this Tiger Woods debacle more than me.
Merry
Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Regards,
Jeff
(California)
I
don't hate Golf. I just don't get it. I think the whole Tiger Woods
deal is pretty funny
.
December
20, 2009
Ralph,
I saw some photos that you had posted of Felipe Pomar. I have an old
photo of my mom and Felipe Pomar in Hawaii. I was going to try to send
it to him so he could sign it and then I could surprise her with it.
She said she knew this big surfer but we always thought she was joking.
Not so. She sent me the slide for keeping but I thought it might be
nice to get it autographed.
I thought you might have his email or address so I can send the picture.
Many thanks
Alan
Your Mom and Felipe? H-m-m-m-m.
December 18, 2009
Ralph,
Touching note. I am humbled. And that is a great Christmas card- yes
CHRISTMAS! Really classy card, Ralph. And I thank you for what you have
done to make my (and fellow vets) service continue to mean something.
I was never really proud of serving. I just did it. You remind us and
the civi's what its all about to serve and to sacrifice and you keep
it in perspective with this crazy world in which we live.
To us surfers in NH, you have become the media epi-center for the Seacoast
NH surf scene. You are what the Chevy 350 was to Detroit, the Johnny
Carson was to late night TV, the Stratocaster is to rock 'n' roll. Your
documentation and enthusiasm has no doubt had an effect on local shops,
on the thrill of a surfer getting in RPOTW and our behavior as surfers
in the water and out. Thank you for all you do as well.
Right on!
Your nocturnal counterpart,
Johnny
Thanks
Johnny...you're a good man and a good friend.
December
18, 2009
Hey Ralph....Sean here just got back from rincon, pr and a heads up
to anyone headed to pr...there has been some car break ins as of late
in rincon area so just travel smart ....caught head- 2' ovhd marias/pistons.el
punta was crowded....merry christmas!!!!
Sean
Thanks
Sean...everyone hear this? Watch your valuables in PR this winter.
December 18, 2009
Ralph:
OK,
so there was no gridlock of stretch limousines, no red carpet, no scantly
clad anorexic interchangeable starlets, no champagne, no celebrity chef
snacks, but on a freezing cold December morning, the World Premier of
Run, delivered in a cardboard box to the Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Shop,
did happen. We have photographic proof.
Ed
Ha!
That's funny
December
17, 2009
Hey Ralph there was a picture of myself surfing on Nov. 15 but I cant
find it now? Any sugestions?
Ann
Look in the archives...?
.
December 16, 2009
Ralph:
I have only watched The RUN 3 times so far, so what can I tell
you that you don't already know? The footage is fantastic, the music
is great, the pacing is great, the humor is great, the interviews (particularly
Steve O'Hara) are great.
If
there were any suprises, it would be how well you intergrated the stills
into the footage to act as sort of perfect puncuation.
The
transitions are perfect and totally unpredictable, a fade, then a dissolve,
then some wild graphics, excellent visuals.
Mike
Moran's surfing, weather slow motion or real time, man, I could watch
that all day.
I
can't believe how well all of the early morning backlight footage came
out, especially in the tough low fall light. Great mood footage.
Those
Chowderheads long shots were awesome, really captured how intense that
barrel seems.
I
Thought it was great, Great job.
Ed
Thanks
Ed and thank you for being such a huge help in the movie and the weekly
column.
I'm glad we became such good friends in the last few years.
December
16, 2009
Ralph (aka Crackie),
Overall The RUN was really good. I especially liked the opening
5 minutes.It picked up again with Crackie (tell Noelle she did a great
job). Local artists were good, your instrumental guitar piece was very
good, interviews were good.The end brought tears to my eyes. We lost
good people too young this year- really a bummer. You definitely captured
the spirit- the good, the glad, the bad and the sad- of "the run"
of 2009.
Oh, the drop-in section was good
I
will watch it again and again.
Right on!
Chrissy
said your box was well done (she is a graphic design grad) and enjoyed
the movie as well.
Johnny
Thanks
Johnny and Chrissy.
December
16, 2009
Hi Ralph,
I
look forward to reading your Pic of the Week page every Monday - especially
after a good swell. It's great to check out the pictures that you and
the other local photographers take at all the different spots.
I
thought I saw you shooting this past Thursday morning and was happy
to see that you got a couple of pictures of me (unknown in #15 and #22).
I
have some other pics of myself surfing while traveling, but don't have
too many good local shots. If it's not too much trouble, would you be
able to send me the full size versions?
Thanks,
Mike
L
Thanks
Mike. Yes I can send you full size versions for a fee. I Charge $20pr
High Res version or $15 per pic if you get more than one.
December
14, 2009
Ralph:
I like the fact that if you are a self-declared enemy of America , Running
into a Marine outfit
in combat is your worst nightmare...
And that your health record is either about to get a lot thicker, or
be closed out entirely.
I
like the fact that Marines are steadfast and consistent in everything
they
Do... Regardless of whether you agree with them or not.
I like the fact that Marines view the term 'politically correct' with
Nothing but pure disdain.
I
like the fact that Marines stand tall and rigid in their actions, thoughts,
And deeds, when others bend with the direction of the wind and are as
confused as A dog looking at a
ceiling fan.
I
like the fact that each and every Marine considers the honor and legacy
of
The Corps as his personal and sacred trust to protect and defend.
I
like the fact that most civilians don't have a clue what makes us tick.
And that's not a bad thing. Because if they did, it would probably scare
the Hell out of them.
I
like the fact that others say they want to be like us, but don't have
What it takes in the Pain-Gain-Pride department to make it happen.
I
like the fact that the Marines came into being in a bar, named Tun Tavern.
And That
Marines still gather in pubs, bars and slop chutes to share sea stories
and Hot scoop.
I
like the fact that Marines do not consider it a coincidence that there
are 24 hours in a day and 24 beers in a case.. Because Marines know
there is a reason For everything that happens.
I
like our motto... SEMPER FIDELIS, And the fact that we don't shed it
When the going gets tough, the battlefield gets deadly or when we hang
up our Uniform for the last time.
I
like the fact that Marines take care of each other... In combat and
time of Peace.
I
like the fact that Marines know the difference between 'Chicken Salad'
and 'Chicken Shit'
and aren't afraid to call either for What it is.
I
like the fact that the people of America hold Marines in the highest
esteem And that they know that they can count on us to locate, close
with, and destroy Those who would
harm them.
I
like the fact that people think we are cocky.... Yet we know that we
have Confidence in everything we do and the fact that they don't know
the taste Of that makes them look at us
as if we are arrogant.
I
like that fact that we know the taste of freedom and would give our
very Lives for it.
And that it is a taste the protected will ever know.
I
like the fact that Ronald Reagan said... 'Some people spend an entire
Lifetime wondering if they made a difference... Marines don't have that
Problem!'
I
like the fact that we are brothers to the end.... And that no matter
what
Happens in life, we know that we have one another's 'six'.
I
like the fact that an elected member of congress felt compelled to Publicly
accuse the Marine Corps of being 'radical and extreme'. And I Also like
the fact that our Commandant informed that member of congress that she
Was absolutely correct and that he passed on
his thanks for the Compliment.
I
like the fact that Marine leaders - of every rank - know that issuing
every Man and woman a black beret - or polka-dotted boxer shorts for
that matter - Does absolutely nothing to promote morale, fighting spirit
or combat Effectiveness.
I
like the fact that Marines are Marines first... Regardless of age, race,
Creed, color, sex, and national origin, or how long they served, their
former Rank, or what goals they achieve in life.
I
like Marines...and I love the fact that I am humbled to walk among the
ranks
Of other Marines.
I
like the fact that you always know where you stand with a Marine. With
Marines, there is no middle ground or gray area. There are only Missions,
Objectives and Facts.
In
closing...if you aren't a Marine, the next best thing is to have a Marine
for a husband, wife, and father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter,
best friend, or friend.
SAEPE EXPERTUS, SEMPER FIDELIS, FRATRES AETERNI
(Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever)
David
Thanks
for sending this David. Semper Fi brother.
December
14, 2009
Ralph- thanks for the style points on this one! I left the yellow log
at home and pulled out the green performance longboard for this session.
http://www.ralphspic.com/END-R-12-13-09/pages/Dec-10-2009%20%2042.htm
I'd
like to add that to the prior request for photos and anything else you
have from that session. Can't beat head high+ at Linkies with offshore
winds!!
Regards,
Michael
M
Thanks
Michael glad you like the pics and thanks for buying the high res versions.
December
10, 2009
Ralph,
Very sad to learn of the passing of Mike Paugh’s wife, Linda. When
things settle down a little for Mike, please give him my condolences.
THANK
YOU FOR WARNING EVERYONE TO GET SCREENED FOR CANCER, IT CAN SAVE SO
MANY LIVES !!! With early detection and modern medicine, cancer no longer
has to be a death sentence.
Thanks again!
Glenn
M
P.S.
How
‘bout Greg Long winning The Eddie? Guts and nuts!!
I
get scared just lookin’ at the photos of waves that big.
Thanks
Glenn I'll let Mike know...and I hear you on the Big Waves.
No Thank you.
December
9, 2009
Ralph,
We've had small to no surf for a stretch, but the HUGE swell that hit
Hawaii has landed on the Californa shores! We're not seeing the 35-40
foot surf they had a the Eddie, but definitely seeing head high to a
couple feet over, and tomorrow should be even bigger.
Attached
are images from today in South County LA. Not exactly sure where
I'm heading for tomorrow's session, but I'll send you the results!
Cheers,
Ben
That's
some big Surf Ben, Thanks ...Ralph
December
9, 2009
Ralph,
My condolences to Mike his family and all within the community.
Our family has lost a couple of folks recently and your thoughtful prose
is heartfelt and inspirational.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Aloha,
Tom H
Thanks
Tom...Ralph
December 8, 2009
Hi Ralph
Your piece about Linda was so heart felt - really wonderful. I am still
trying to wrap my mind around the fact that she has died. The news about
Linda, even though I had a feeling it was coming soon, just hit me really
hard. The last time I saw her (in September) she looked so great, was
in a spunky/zippy mood - and was trying to be so positive about everything
- despite recent (and serious sounding) health setbacks. My memories
of Linda will always be - what a gutsy, strong and positive person in
the face of such unfair shit.
Really nice and positive piece Ralph for everyone to read after hearing
such sad news.
Hannah
This
has been hard on the whole community. In light of recent losses, it's
just another reminder of how fragile life really is. Pray for Linda's
soul and pray for Mike.
Ralph
December 8, 2009
Hey Ralph,
I
received word the other day about Linda. Fortunately I went over Mike's
a few weeks back and hung out for awhile with him, Stein and Teresa,
left a card with Mike to give to Linda. She was a good friend to me
and was very supportive to me when my mother fought and thankfully beat
cancer - along with being a great friend overall.
I
was glad to see the endearing words you written for her on your site.
Hope you are well, likely will see you later this week at the wake.
I am leaving work at 2 or so on Thursday to head up there. Obviously
dont want to 'promote' this, but I am sure that there are many surfers,
who knew Linda and Mike fairly well, that may not be aware. Perhaps
they would like to pray for them, send a donation in her name to Ovarian
Cancer research or send flowers.
Since
you are older and wiser and have known them longer than I, I thought
it made sense to bounce it off of you.
Regards,
Tim
Tim:
I'd hold off until this settles down and we have a chance to speak wth
Mike. It is all still too raw . Thanks. Ralph
December 8, 2009
Ralph,
I just learned that I am guilty as charged in latest drop in. Jon Gozzo
just sent it to me. I was the invisible man on the SUP. I am pretty
careful about that ...although the pic does not plead my case. I think
I did catch it earlier but given the vehicle I often get off the wave
if I see an LB in position. That was a great day out there. Looks like
you were in good position for shots. Any other good ones of that Invisiable
MAN. :) I really enjoyed your piece about Linda. I dont know them but
it was very well written and moving.
Take care,
Chris
No
worries...just look both ways before SUPPIN. Thank you about the Linda
piece.
Ralph
December 7, 2009
Hey Ralph-And that is neither here nor there. J---- called me yesterday
morning to tell me that Linda had passed.
Ralph, I have to personally thank you for such a beautifully written
and inspirational “memorial” to Linda and really, to all of
us fortunate enough to know it exists. I am very touched by your words.
There is nothing more tragic for tragedy to happen and not learn from
it or take something away from the circumstances at hand.
When I lost my brother Michael-I was angry. When my dad was killed in
a car accident -I was angry. The list could go on, but I’m sure
you get the point.
A year ago when my brother J- woke from his coma after six weeks, the
first thing he said wasn’t “what happened?” as I expected.
He said “someone came to me and told me you are not finished yet-you’re
job on earth is not done.” He wasn’t sure exactly who “they”
were- God, Jesus a disciple, however he was sure it was someone from
the heavens.
J- is still not sure what his job is here, I personally think his job
was to pass the message on to me to let go of the anger so that I could
heal my heart and forgive and that doesn’t mean forget. That there
truly is another place as you put it so amazingly well where there is
no pain or suffering, no war or hate……the place where Linda
is now.
Peace
Susie
Of
course I remember you. Although, I am terrible at remembering faces
these days. I am getting old. Thank you so much for the kind words.
It's hard to believe that Linda is gone.
One
thing is for sure Susie, life is not easy.
I
do believe in the other world that awaits us. I've personally had too
many unexplainable events happen to me, that can only point to a life
after death. Or something after death. I don't know what it is, or what
it looks like.
I can only say for certain, that these experiences have left a prolonged
affect on my life and family.
I
hope Mike has some kind of faith. You don't have to be a church going,
dropping money in the basket type of believer, you just have to believe.
Sounds like you believe. That's good, it will sustain you when you face
some of life's challenges.
Thanks
again for writing and thank you for the kind and thoughtful words about
my weekly blog.
Surfing
heals all wounds...
Ralph
December 7, 2009
Hello brother Ralph,
In
the past, I might have meant my surfing brother only, but now I can
call you my bro by faith in Christ.
Just
read your weekly column as I look forward to doing just about every
Monday. Saddened by Linda Paugh's death but encouraged to see how our
loving God has used this event (and others) and the witness of your
Christian friend to bring you assurance of new and eternal life based
on faith in Jesus perfect work, not your own. Had all these events not
been perfectly orchestrated by Him would you have been receptive in
making sure you have eternal life?
Ralph, I had contacted you last year about running an announcement for
starting up a NH chapter of Christian Surfers, does that sound a little
familiar? It's still in the works.
Ralph,
I am convinced this is the best news ever and that this (He) is the
answer we all are looking for. God's grace, peace and love to you and
your family.
Norman
PS,
Check out www.walkingonwater.com and www.christiansurfers.com if you
want to see some big things God is doing in the lives of other surfers
and the surfing community!
You
would of thought I'd dropped a bomb on everyone. (Hey it's Pearl Harbor
Day) I have always believed in Jesus. Always. I'm just not that vocal
about it. If I think that any kind of Faith, can help someone who is
grieving, I will bring it up. I'm happy that you have found Jesus. Bless
you too. Ralph
December 7, 2009
Hey Ralph,
I was moved by your awesome entry regarding Zap's wife and your story.
Phil 4:13 check it out....
Peace,
Chris
Thanks
Chris.
December
7, 2009
Ralph- thanks again for the duct tape, it made my session more bearable.
After the tide came up on Friday I bought some new boots and headed
up to F-- H---- and it was just perfect. I'd love to buy that photo
from you (below), yet more evidence to my kids that I surf.
http://www.ralphspic.com/END-R-Dec-609/pages/Dec%204-2009%2032.htm
I
was sorry to read about Linda Paugh though. I have known Zap from the
late eighties when I first came to New England for college and I hung
out at Dean's shop (SST). Matter of fact I reconnected with Dean last
year and we joined Zap for a session at Seabrook, and it felt like a
time warp.
Regards,
Michael
She touched a lot of people's hearts.
I'm glad you are still connected to Zappy and the boys.
December 7, 2009
In my travels, I have often told people that the seacoast of New Hampshire
is truly special. That God touched his finger on this coast. So many
talented and wonderful people, world class surf, music and art packed
into this small area. A place like no other I have been.
Hearing of Linda Paugh's passing today sucked the wind from my lungs.
Both she and Mike are so much of what makes New Hampshire so unique.
As a surfer, we often think that the quality of the waves is what makes
the place...but it really is the community that makes all.
Linda was such a beauty, so funny and genuine. She was a vital cornerstone
of the New Hampshire tribe. I am sure that God touched his finger again
on New Hampshire with Linda's passing...showing her the way home.
My prayers and love go out to Mike and to the many people who feel this
loss.
Stan Chew
Thanks
Stan that was beautifully written. You are still a part of our Tribe
brother.
Ralph.
December 7, 2009
Hello Ralph,
So sorry to hear of Linda's passing. Do you have any information regarding
memorial donations or funds to help offset medical expenses?
mt
I
do not. But if anyone else does let me know and I'll get the word out.
December 7, 2009
Thought I sent this to you last night. Very well written homage to Linda.
Once again Ralph, you tread on a subject that is difficult to speak
about and handle it with class and dignity. I was made aware early Sunday
am of Linda's passing. I pray for Mike. He can use all the strength,
we as a tribe, can muster. I can't, and don't, want to know what it
would be like to lose my wife. Thank you Ralph. See you in the water.
B
This
is where faith comes into play.
December 7, 2009
Dear Brother Ralph
Thanks for the great column this week
beautiful job!!
Skip
Thanks
Skip. Just so damn sad.
December 6, 2009
Ralph I am so saddened by lindas passing. Five years ago I almost lost
my wife to breast cancer. Early detection is important however I
learned back then that all cancer research is funded by private
donations. While our goverment wastes billions on special interest
crap like 30 million to save a mouse in cal. Not one dime of our
taxpayer money goes for cancer research, only big hospitals and pharms
big profits to be made this is bullshit. This makes me very upset, too
many close friends are dying. For if the funding was there, our top
scientist would have found a cure. People need to become aware and
realize that crap processed food that our goverment allows to be
consumed is mostly the cause of breast cancer. Well enough said, hope
to see ya in the water.
Tom
We can send people to the moon but we can'r save them from cancer.
December 5, 2009
Dear Ralph,
Thanks
so much for the really cool shotJ!! I am so stoked to see myself through
your eyes – I really like the way the wave looks – and the
shot is tack-sharp. Well done and know how much I appreciate the work
and time you took to get it to me. Looks like I needed to stall and
go for the barrel! Maybe I was setting up for a bottom turn……
I will always gladly pay you for any good shots you get of me.
Take
good care, and wishing you all of the very best over the festive season,
and many more great sessions and hollow waves.
Justin
Same
to you Justin.
December 5, 2009
Hello Ralph,
My son called and said you all talked earlier. I am doing graduate work
at Lehigh Valley Hospitals in Allentown, PA. until September ......I
will not be able to come to see Linda......However, I did talk with
Teresa at 8:00 P.M. tonight....She was in the hospital room with Linda
and Mike....Mike was unable to come to the phone...I left my number
for him to call........Please be assured that I will pray diligently
for Linda tonight in the hospital chapel. Thanks for contacting me through
email and my son through the phone call. The Paughs are very special
people to me and all the surfing community in NH.......It seems like
only yesterday I married them at the chapel at Rye overlooking the ocean.
How our hearts grieve with Mike as he holds his dear wife for these
last moments.
Sincerely, Chip
We're
all praying Chip.
December 5, 2009
Aloha, Sun is not up yet.The Surf sounds big. This may be the setup
for the biggest storm since 1969..the biggest on record.
See Caldwells report below.It is very interesting to those who follow
Surf Forecasts.
http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/pages/SRF.php
Will keep you posted. Should be lots of news coming out of Oahu Surf
contest scene.
Tom
Whoa...I'd
be hiding under the bed..
Ralph
December 4, 2009
Thought you guys might enjoy these shots from the Rocks last night,
what a beautiful evening! It got dark really fast as you can see
from the last shots. Brandon was out there Steve but not sure if any
of these are him??
Ging
PS- Ralph, love your nature shots from Virginia! One of them looks
like a painting. Your getting quite good with that camera!
Thanks...the
Mountains in Virginia are beautiful.
Ralph
December
3, 2009
Subject: Aloha from Kauai
To: ralph@adlantic.com
Aloha Ralph,
Wish you were here. Lots of fun overhead Surf.
Check out whats on the horizen 36-46 ft waves on the way. Even the tow
in guys are concerned.
http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/pages/SRF.php
I hear you had a heavy storm come through. I will keep my eye on your
site.
We return on the 12th.
All the best.
Aloha, Tom
Wow
that's big...the Eddie should be ALL TIME!.
Ralph
|
