Jukebox Stakeout

At Victor's, on Convoy Street in Kearny Mesa, I saw a few regulars that work for Pepsi, which is around the corner. Howie Ouzts, a 34-year-old driver, shot pool and downed Coors Lights. When he went to the jukebox, I asked what songs he chose to play.

"I pick Everlast, songs from the Whitey Ford CD. The song 'What It's Like' is great. It's about intolerance and judging other people. Al Green is one of my favorites. I like the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I bet you didn't think I'd say that. My dad, even though I only met him a few times, really liked Hendrix. Now I like some of his songs. My favorite [song] is Creed's 'Arms Wide Open.' When my first son was born, I heard this song. It was around 1998. Sometimes I cry when it plays. I don't care who sees that. I like the lyrics."