MY LIFE

Sometimes I wonder what would've happened if I interfered. Would "she" had lived or would she have had a different life? To be honest, today, it doesn't matter because she is gone. Ciara: sehe was someone who can never be replaced.

I look back and wish things were different but unfortunately they cannot. Yo creo que que my life is different pero at the same time, we all think the same.

RIP Ciara Deprill 2/3/06

I will see you soon.

Inspiration...

One day I will not be there

One day things won't be the same.

Tomorrow may be that day.

Have you ever wondered what your life would be if your parents did this

or if you had taken that road?

What happened to the simple life,

the one where things just worked out because you believed they were.

Are you happy with your life,

because i am.

However, one day I won't be there

to support you or anyone else.

Why?

Because that's just the way life works.

La Casa Latina

Ahhh yes another Latino organization in Philadelphia devoted to create Latino awareness in a community. Which community is this...UPENN's campus. Now they may not be my favorite school but they sure do have an interesting Latino population.

Anyways, La Casa Latina, "provides a supportive environment where students are welcome to discuss and understand issues of importance to them. The Center supports students through resources and services that foster the integration of their academic, social, cultural, and community service activities to enrich their Penn experience."

And who is the their fearless leader, a good friend of mine Johnny Irizarry. He's a good person, loves his culture, and loves helping people. He actually just sent me a good list of Latino organizations in Philadelphia...it was a real extensive list which included media as well. So if you're looking to help your community or work with a good organization, get in touch with them.

Blogs, movies, Latinos = $$$$

Just got word through Latina Lista about a great opportunity for Hispanic bloggers. If you're a Hispanic blogger and love to watch movies (at least once a month) then please consider this blog study. Here's the rundown:

For 4 days in February (Feb 3-6) you will be asked to log on to a password-protected site to answer a "question of the day" related to movies and movie marketing. We want to hear your opinion, your considered thoughts, your big ideas, and more. We'll ask bloggers to write, upload photos and video, and link us to sites and destinations online that relate to the topic of the day. In other words, we're looking for people with a lot to say about movies and how they are marketed.

For the rest of the criteria and application, go to Latina Lista's post. I would actually try out for this but unfortunately I would be too busy. Ummm and for those thinking about it...you get paid!

Do You Want to Dance?

Learn how to dance...

I need to get out!

Ok so this year one of my New Year's resolutions was to travel travel travel...near or far (and also solo if I have to). I was originally planning a cruise but then out of nowhere my LB asked me about a Dominican Republic trip...um hell yea lol.

Hopefully I'm able to go because I've never been to DR. In 2007 I went to Puerto Rico and that was an adventure. Just thinking about true BLUE beaches makes me tingle :). So when would I go, the proposed dates are mid-April. Perfect timing right? I foresee one problem, one day later after I get back is my frat's banquet lol.

We'll see what happens. If/when this happens, anyone recommend a MUST DO in DR?

Philadelphia's More Divertido

Credit: Photo by B. Krist for GPTMC

So I normally wouldn't do this but I just had to. I guess I was attempting to figure out what I would do with my parents when they come and visit in the Spring/Summer, then I came across all the Spanish-speaking attractions Philly has to offer.

Yes my parents like to do it the "American" way but come on I don't want to explain EVERYTHING to them. Of course these attractions include the Liberty Bell, Independence Visitor Center, etc. but I had no clue Eastern State Penitentiary has a written transcript people can follow while listening in English. And as much as I wouldn't want to pay an extra $5 to help my parents, even the Phila. Zoo has a tour guide readily available for español tours, just be sure to book in advance.

For the complete list you can check out the pressroom.

So if you ever plan your visit to Philly with the parents and don't want to translate everything, be sure to take them to the locations above. And if you really don't want to do any work, take them to El Centro de Oro haha.

Lycans or Vampires?

The all wondering question of whether or not I would rather be a Lycan (werewolf) or vampire? To be honest, make me a daywalker and I'll be good haha. Why not be a daywalker? They have the strength of a vampire and none of their weaknesses. However, you still have the "thirst". Yes I know vampires or werewolves don't exist but just the though alone is interesting.



Anyways, this past weekend I saw Underworld: Rise of the Lycans and it was a good addition to the story. We all knew what was going to happen but this film kind of put things into perspective. It actually made me want to but the other 2 movies. Underworld brings 2 very interesting concepts into a giant war; and to think this war has been going on for centuries. For some odd reason it brings the slavery story to life which I guess is good. Then you have the vampire falling in love with the "other" race (Lycans) which of course is forbidden. Overall, the Underworld series are Navaja approved :).

No No No to Notorious

Last night I had the "honor" to watch NOTORIOUS...not the best thing I've seen. Now I'm not sure what the director was trying to prove but he sure as hell didn't capture anything special. It was a typical story of someone chasing his dreams, yes he got it, but of course he was killed.

So many things wrong with this movie I can't begin to list them. The worst...P. Diddy, what the hell!? Why was he made out to be a saint? Everything that came out of his mouth was philosophical; the movie made him seem like the all knowing producer. Second worst, his dancing!! Is it necessary to dance in everything? Third...poor Lil' Kim (smh).

So unless you're from Brooklyn and a hardcore Biggie fan, don't watch it...please.

La Vida Real

So i just caught up with MTV's Real World: Brooklyn. First reaction, why does MTV always seem to recruit gay Latinos? So MTV...answer that question?

Anyways, this Real World is different yet similar to past seasons. Real World started out as a show about "different" people who live in a house and see what happens. Then it turned into the Real World where everyone hates each other. Next...the Real World where everyone has sex with each other. Now it's about people trying to "make it" in...the real world?

But I'm actually glad they decided to get 8 completely different types of people: jock, gay, transgender, morman, and the others lol

Looking for a job?

Well I hope you have years and years of experience.

NBC10 Philadelphia has announced 10 jobs paying $100,000+. Don't be fooled, these are government paying jobs and are all located in the Philadelphia area (PA, DE, NJ).

So hopefully you one of their descriptions...

"We are looking for a highly motivated, innovative individual to help the FAA implement its Next Generation Air Transportation System..."

Good luck in these hard times!

1/20/08 - Where were you?

I'll keep it real simple.

As much as I would've wanted to be down in D.C. it was cool being in Philadelphia. Although I did work, our pres/ceo let us watch it in our boardroom on the flat screen :). Truly inspirational, no words could describe what just happened today. I actually almost cried but I kept it in haha. I've been doing good with keeping in "cries". Anyways, enjoy the video...

Weekend en Fotos - BIBT

UNITY STEP PERFORMANCE

GREEK APPAREL

SP 04 SANDZ

BUBBLES aka BUBELS (IN FRENCH ACCENT)

"We're kind of a big deal"

Crash Mansion (NYC)

So last Friday I went to Crash Mansion (Club BLVD) for the 7th Annual Bringing it Back Tour. The venue was something I did not expect. When I thought of watching step, stroll and other performances I thought of SEATS...ugh uh lol.

This was an actual club (hence the name Club BLVD). I guess I should've really thought about it but whatever. I walked in and they expected me to pay for coat service, riiiight. Luckily some friends had already secured a booth so that saved me god knows how much. I will give it to them, it was a nice lounge with friendly atmosphere. Maybe it was because I was in there at 6 p.m. and left at around 10 p.m. Who knows what it's like during regular hours.

The service was good though. Waitress was nice and not a bi*** like some are in "some" lounges and the bartenders were very attentive. So good job on getting good bartenders. Then there were the drinks. Yeah it is NYC pricing but come on now. $8 for a corona, $10 for a rum/coke and $12 for a Red Devil.

Would I go there again? Yeah I guess; you just have to convince me. Plus it would be cool to see what type of music they play.

Obamatino? Naw

Yes I just made up my own word but I couldn't help but be glad Shakira is performing at Obama's inauguration ceremony. It was WAAAY back in Decemeber, where Obama invited her to perform. And if one Latina isn't enough, let's add another!

I just read on Hissip that Demi Lovato will be performing at the ceremony. So who is she??? Apparently she's one of those teen-pop starts. She'll be performing with the Jonas brothers this coming Tuesday. Exciting? Sure.

According to Demi...

“I’m ridiculously nervous, to a point where I don’t know what I’ll be able to do with myself. I’m very excited. It’s a huge honor to be part of this especially because its not just another president, we have Obama. I’m just ecstatic to be involved . . . I hope I don’t fall!”

For those that will be there, enjoy!

R.I.P. Falleció Ricardo Montalban

Yep that's right, one of the first Latino's to make it big in Hollywood died in his house in Los Angeles. You may remember him from Fantasy Island or Naken Gun (starring Leslie Nielson).

You can read more about it here.

Celeb's at Obama's Inauguration

To shame on you who want to go to D.C. to stalk celebrities. SHouldn't you be going to enjoy an historic moment? Well for those that DO want to look for celebe's, Jaunted lists where to find them LOL.

This includes anyone from Russell Simmons to LL Cool J, Susan Sarandon to Maggie Gyllenhall and even our friend Oprah . However, if you're looking for Obama gala's, I did list a few here. Good luck to those that end up in D.C. or are in D.C. already. I heard things are getting pretty crazy right now.

Step and Stroll en Nueva York

So this Friday I'm going to the Bringing it Back Tour (BIBT) hosted by those radiant sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Should be fun times. To be honest step shows are one of the best things I've ever witnessed. It just isn't for fun, it shows unity between organizations and you can see the hard work teams put into their steps. Hearing/seeing the synchronization is just amazing.

Plus I'm also gonna be some pretty cool people LOL! GSAPs!

Top 15 ways to tell it's a LATINO birthday party

1. Some of the guests didn't bring a gift – but brought extra uninvited kids.
   
2. The party is separated into women cooking, men drinking, and kids playing.
   
3. The party is at Chuck E. Cheese but they brought their own food, cake and a Piñata.
   
4. It's a child's party, but there are more grown ups than children.
   
5. It's Mijo's 1st birthday and the party food is carne asada, arroz, frijoles and 10 cases of beer.
   
6. For entertainment, instead of playing pin the tail on the donkey, there is usually a televised baseball or FUTBOL game, or a live fight.
   
7. The party was supposed to be over at 5pm, but its 7:30pm and the party is just starting.
   
8. The host calls someone who's on their way and tells them to stop and get some tortillas and ice.
   
9. You hear someone go up to the birthday child and say, "Mira, que lindo. I'm going to have to get you something next week when I get paid."
   
10. The party is Saturday, and you get a call from the hostess Friday saying," I'm giving Mijo a birthday party tomorrow at 3pm"
    
11. Some guest bring gifts that are still in the Wal-Mart bag.
    
12. The cake didn't come from the store; it came from the mother of the comadre of your best friend's sister who makes really good cakes.
    
13. You are told you have to save your plate and fork you ate your food with, so you can eat your cake.
    
14. Guests automatically wrap up a plate of food and cake to take home.
    
15. It's Mijo's birthday, but since his cousin Maria is there and her birthday is in a few days, it becomes Mijo's and Maria's party.

Estaciones de radio

So I bet you're wondering, why does Philly NOT have any Latino music stations!? In reality, we do! However, they are on AM radio. Yeah that sucks but what can you do.

La Mega 1310 and Rumba 1480 are good radio stations, Rumba even debuted on FM radio but it was taken off a few months after its release. Something happened with the marketing and we all got an e-mail. Even with our protest letters, it was taken to AM.

I actually listen to the online, you get a better reception.

Yasmin Hernandez

So last Saturday I attended Taller Puertorriqueño's exhibition closing event for Yasmin Hernandez. I must say it was pretty interesting.

First off her work is amazing. Hernandez's work are, " Themes of conquest, struggle, displacement, resistance and cultural syncretism manifest in my art. With my images I reveal and celebrate the (s)heroes of hidden histories and their legacies. Each figure depicted—whether a freedom fighter, a spiritual deity, or my mom— comes from a place of disenfranchisement and is battling to rise above. My intent is to portray these figures as warriors, goddesses and gods in their own right."

Then to hear her speak is something completely memorizing. Well okay, maybe I'm reaching but she is inspirational. She is a strong Puerto Rican woman who fights for what she believes in. Some of her best advice is told by her artwork. She is very much a cultural and political woman. During the event at Taller, she explained some of the struggles she goes through including criticism from her own people...which she said was the worst. Because her work is political, it's hard to gain respect from some people.


Did I mention she is a sister of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc? Well she is haha.

Announcement of the day...citizenship

Attention Philadelphia...Curso de Ciudadanía

El Centro Dominicano

Anuncia la Duodécima Sesión preparatoria para personas interesadas en obtener la Ciudadanía Norte Americana. Se requiere cumplir con los requisitos de residencia permanente en los Estados Unidos y dominio del idioma Inglés*. (*Algunas excepciones aplican)

! Inscripciones Abiertas!

Classes start...

When: Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009, 6:00-8:00 PM
Where: Concilio de Organizaciones Hispanas, 705-09 N. Franklin Street

Para mayor información llamar a Facundo Knight Al: (215) 627-3100

Do you have a dream?

So last year (meaning last month) I was approached by a group of young professionals to be a part of something special. These guys have created something called THE R.I.C.K. FOUNDATION.

One of their initiatives is American Dreaming magazine.

American Dreaming is an online lifestyle magazine produced by aspiring young writers, journalists, graphic designers, photographers, stylists, and creative minds alike highlighting budding young talents in Entertainment, Fashion, Sports, Business, Politics, etc.. Our mission is to put YOU on to what's next and whose next!

And to be honest it's actually pretty good. The content is diverse and touches on a lot of things we as young professionals should look up to. For the latest issue go to Don'tWakeUs.com and then click on American Dreaming. And when reading it, remember to have an open creative mind. I always think one should always "think outside the box" pero mucha gente doesn't think that way.

I was actually given the opportunity to be a part of "their team". This could mean lots of things but the original idea was to be a member of their "board of directors". I agreed, so we'll see how that goes. And to be honest never would I have thought at 24 (turning 25) years old I would be where I am doing what I do.

hasta la proxima

Jesse Bermúdez nominated for a Grammy

Jesse Bermudez, Asociación de Músicos Latinoamericanos de Filadelfia president, was nominated as a producer for Papo Vazquez and the Mighty Pirate Orchestra, a Philly group which plays afro-puerto rican jazz.

According to Bermudez, “No lo podía creer. La grabación fue hecha en vivo en el Painted Bride Theater, aquí en Filadelfia,” dijo Bermúdez a Al Día, “Fue increible ser nominado. La música era excelente, es jazz afro-puertorriqueño, con los ritmos de bomba y plena”

Just a few year's ago, Taller PR, Congreso de Latinos Unidos, HACE and Raices Culturales awarded Jesse Bermudez at their annual Feria del Barrio.

Inspiration del pasado...

Podemos con Obama...yes old but I like it.

New Latino Leaders

According to our friends at the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (GACLA), Governor Rendell has appointed 17 Latino community leaders to serve two-year terms on the GACLA.

GACLA’s mission is to ensure that Pennsylvania’s Latino community is afforded the opportunity to continue to prosper. It has worked to address community development and empowerment, educational advancement, leadership enhancement, equal rights and equal opportunities, economic development, employment, health, housing, social services and other issues.

It's good to see Rendell take a role within the Latino community and appoint some good people. Today, Latinos are the fastest growing ethnic group in Pennsylvania; accounting for more
than 60 percent of the state’s population growth between 2005 and 2008. So what does that mean for our future, only time can tell.

For the list of leaders, you can go to GACLA's web-site or click here for the release.

Obama-wear!

As if companies aren't capitalizing on Obama's inauguration enough, here are two pretty clever things I saw:

Get more t-shirts at Cafe Press.

And way to go Hallmark haha.

Some more stats for you to ponder

According to our friends at the North-American Interfraternity Conference...

• 48% of all U.S. Presidents have been Greek
• 42% of U.S. Senators are Greek
• 30% of U.S. Congressmen/women are Greek
• 40% of all U.S. Supreme Court Justices have been Greek
• 30% of Fortune 500 executives are Greek
• 10% of all listed in "Who's Who" are Greek
• Only 3% of the U.S. population belong to a fraternity or sorority

What I want to know is what percentage is a member of a minority Greek-lettered organization? Do you believe it's more or less? I doubt of the US Presidents, one of them is part of Alpha Phi Alpha or even Lambda Theta Phi LOL.

Richardson has left the building

So our dear "hispanic" governor of New Mexico has abandoned Obama's nomination for Commerce secretary. I believe Richardson was the first Hispanic to be on his team. *sigh*
Why did he leave? Of course it had to do something with a criminal investigation dealing with money. Surprised? lol

“Let me say unequivocally that I and my administration have acted properly in all matters and that this investigation will bear out that fact,” Richardson said. “But I have concluded that the ongoing investigation also would have forced an untenable delay in the confirmation process. Given the gravity of the economic situation the nation is facing, I could not in good conscience ask the president-elect and his administration to delay for one day the important work that needs to be done.”

Oh well it must've happened for a reason and for the best. He didn't want anything to hold back Obama's inauguration, although I don't anything would've LOL.

Twitter para los latinos?

So some of your are already asking...what is TWITTER? Well in their words...

Twitter is a service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing?

I started using Twitter in the middle of 2008 for my job but then I started using it personally. And no I'm not one of those people that just says, "I am eating a burger." Instead you use it to share information about yourself, info you think is relevant to the world, or if you just want to bi*** about a product; people are listening!

Anyways, I'm starting to notice more and more Latinos using Twitter. However, it's kind of hard because I am in the United States, therefore most of my "followings" and "followees" are American. I'm sure there are hundreds of users in Central and South America.

I recently was followed by Hissip which is actually a Latin gossip blog and it's pretty interesting the stuff "we" get into haha. I was also able to get my friend from Maryland on there and she kind of actively uses it. She tried to get her sorority on there and a few actually listened lol.

So if you're reading and you're Latino, get on the Twitter! haha

El Espirito

After watching The Spirit last night, I realized movies are getting more and more interesting. The storyline was typical but the acting was different. It was comical yes but there's something about this movie that made it unique. Maybe it was because the masterminds behind this movie were the same ones who directed/produced 300 & Sin City.

Anyways, the movie starred Eva Mendes...oh yea Eva Mendes. Just found out she is Cuban! She goes on my Top 5 list of Cubans, which includes Gloria Estefan :). Mendes plays Sand Saref, an interesting character who went "psycho" when her dad was accidentally killed. She's obsessed with material things, especially diamonds and all that nonsense. I won't ruin it for you, but at the end she finds happiness.

The movie was great, just have an open mind and never assume anything.