La Musica Colombiana

So I've been inspired to write about la musica Colombiana. Latinos have such a variety of music in their veins that's it's almost impossible to write about it all. From Latin Jazz and Mambo to Salsa, Tejano, Chicano Rock, Latin pop, and Reggaeton. However, when it comes to Colombian music, I always enjoyed the sounds of vallenato; and today there's Shakira; one of Colombia's biggest selling artist. Some other inspiring Colombian artistas include Joe Arryoyo, Gali Galiano, Charlie Zaa, Fruko y sus Tesos, Carlos Vives, Binomio de oro and Tulio Zuloaga.

And if you're really into the history, check out the PBS special Latin Music USA airing October 12th and 19th. Their web-site really dives into the variety of music Latino culture offers.

Miami in One Night

So as all (maybe some) of you know, my Carnival cruise is coming up. We'll be leaving from Miami, FL on October 1st. However, why not stay in Miami for una noche! While I must say the Greater Miami Conventions & Visitors Bureau has a nice site, I wonder what am I going to do for one night? I'm obviously going to experience the nightlife but I am probably going to be amazed by everything.

And no I won't be missing my cruise. Although the boat leaves at 4 p.m., we have to be there at 1 p.m. (for check in). So I'm asking you world...what should I do por una noche in Miami!? Anything close to the Starlite Hotel will be great...that's where I'll be staying.

The US Census is Reaching...Far

Maggie Steber for The New York Times

So how to you target Hispanics? Why not hit them where they watch the most...las novelas! As part of Telemundo’s partnership with the 2010 Census, the Hispanic television network has written a census storyline into their popular telenovela “Más Sabe El Diablo.” Now I must say this is very very clever of them, but will it work? I don't watch novelas but from what I remember, they are usually over-dramatic and involve lots of sex scandals. I could be wrong today but still. According to a NY Times article, "the Census Bureau is helping to compose a remarkable story line featuring the Perla Beltrán character on the telenovela, amid the genre’s usual tales of sex scandals, unspeakable illnesses and implausible villains. It may be the first plotline on a soap opera blessed by the United States government."

Hopefully it gets the point across. In fact, this story line better hit home hard! I think I'll ask my parents what they think about the Census even though they DO count. Although they aren't US Citizens, they are legal residents of the US.

Celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage

The time is at hand for the Puerto Rican Day Parade in Philadelphia. This is when vendors from across the region decide to sell all their Puerto Rican para; from flags to shirts that say, "Bye Hater". This is also the time when bars, clubs and lounges go all out with their after-party! And of course my fraternity is no different.

This Friday, September 25th join the hermanos of Gamma Phi Sigma "Hermanos Unidos" Fraternity at the Puerto Rican Day Parade Pre-Party at Club Mambo, 1850 N. 5th Street. Oh and sorry but the picture above is from Club Sambda. Don't worry though, Mambo is much closer and the party is from 9 p.m. - 3 a.m; no other club in Philly stays open until 3 a.m.

Price:
$5 for the LADIES ALL NIGHT
$5 for the Fellas till 10pm ($10 after)

18 to Party
21 to Drink

Will Latinos become America's Best Dance Crew?

So AfroBorike is heading to the finale for America's Best Dance Crew. I'm not really sure how I feel about this. Of course it's good because they are the first Latino crew to make it to the finals...they are representing for all Latinos. However, did they really deserve it? They were different but there were times where the performances were just "okay".

AfroBorke's last performance was the soul of what they represent...the Latino culture. With drums, African dance, strong movements and flips, AfroBorike told America Latino's are here to stay. Then again isn't that what Sotomayor did? Hmmmm conspiracy? I hope not. I don't expect them to win. Although it's great to be in the finals, We Are Heroes deserves it.

The Power of Social Media & North Philly

Google Justus Rivera and what do you get? How about a kid from North Philly on the news and all over Twitter. The best part...he got asked to be a guest on the Ellen show! Imagine that. The power of social media at its best. According to the NBCPhiladelphia story, "The prodigy was discovered by Kutcher on the corner of 18th and Walnut on Sept. 5. The actor then posted a video he shot of Justus’ sidewalk performance to his Twitter account." From there some producer saw the video and asked Rivera to be on the show.

So the next time you see a random guy, girl or child on the street trying to make $$ (with a talent), don't dismiss them...give them a chance.

Back to Basics - Philly's Latino Men

In case you haven't noticed, Philly is sort of ran by Latinas. I mean I have no problem with that, I give a lot of credit to Councilwoman Quiñones, she's a great person. But did you ever stop to think, "Where are those strong Latino leaders?" Growing up I really only had my father and brother. Then in college there wasn't anyone that stood out until I pledged. Unfortunately we are not all in college or able to pledge.

Join Back to Basics at their 3rd annual Latino Men Call to Action on Saturday, October 3rd, 2009. The theme for the day will be to get back to the way it used to be. Where people took care of people, when respect for people and property were the norm, when you truly were your brother’s keeper. The event will consist of entertainment, food, children’s activities, prizes and organizations providing information thru tables and kiosks. Last year over 1,200 men signed the pledge and the committee has set a goal of 2,500 for this year. The event will be from 2pm - 6 pm at 9th & Hunting Park.

That Really Doesn't Grind My Gears...Ramon

Blog dedication to Ramon:

Ramon, you have and always will be the one to make people smile/laugh. With all the things you've been through you still manage to get up and fight it. We should all look up to you with your strength...that's why you are Guatu. Your flame will never stop burning; it's forever. The past few weeks have just been a challenge in this crazy world called life. It's almost every day that you would text me or other brothers asking to go out and enjoy life...and that's how it should be.

Hasta pronto hermano; I'll see you soon.