And now for my own Year End Review...
Ah, 2010, the year that has seen my ups and down. It sure was a year to remember for good and bad.
This was the year where I went to more gigs than ever before starting with Ferry Corsten at Nokia Theater in February all the way to Kaskade at Pacha in November. Lets see, I believe I went to at least 10 gigs this year and a couple where truly memorable. ASOT 450, Electric Zoo, Andy Moor, Matt Darey and John O'Callaghan, Andy Moor and Ronski Speed, and Markus Schulz. I was also glad to be able to meet some of the finest DJs around - Ferry Corsten, Markus Schulz, Roger Shah, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Andy Moor (who gave me his drink), M.I.K.E., DJ Eco, The Thrillseeker, John O'Callaghan, Fedde Le Grand, Filo and Peri, Matt Darey and Marco V. The most memorable would be meeting Matt Darey, thats when the GTV crew was born. To all the DJs who came and grace NYC with their djing abilities, THANK YOU and keep on Trancing!!
This year was also the year that i finally was able to go on a vacation after 4 years of taking none. I went to Vegas with "the Boys" hoping to catch the "Pacman" fight but the fight was moved to Dallas. Oh well, we still had a great time partying it up at Haze nightclub, relaxing at the MGM pool, eating at Craftsteak and Bouchon. To the Las Vegas crew, we sure partied like a G6
Also this summer, I finally went to the beach after.. umm.. I dont know for how long. It sure was a needed break and relaxation even though Pt. Pleasant was packed the day we went. I got a tanned, got stuffed with seafood and got home all tired - just like an ordinary beach day. Thank you to the Pt. Pleasant crew and more beach trips the new year.
To Guggenheim, MAD and Whitney, thank you for those private viewings.
I went to a lot of events this year as well from tastings to festivals. And the good thing, it didn't really cost me that much. To Johnnie Walker, Dewars, and Macallan, thanks for having tasting sessions. And to Lexus, thanks for a great event at Marquee.
For all the ups, theres always downs...
I started the year with a really bad right ankle sprain that happened in late 2009 which prevented me from running for awhile. And I vowed to myself not to get hurt like that again. But on Halloween, I was in an accident and fractured my sternum. Doctors told me that it will take 6-8 weeks to heal and even though its heal, the doctor highly recommends that I take it easy working out. Those six weeks were brutal as I feel so weak seeing people running or doing stuff that I would normally do. And its also the reason why I miss most of the gigs in November and December. Well, its been always eight weeks since the accident, I could do the normal things I usually do but I could still feel my sternum is not completely heal. Of course, having a cold is not helping at all. And I was hoping to begin the New Year healthy, I guess I wont. But I'm just happy I'm alive since the car was totaled. If it was a different circumstances, I would probably be not writing this.
Also, this year I knew people who loss someone dear to them and its heart-breaking when it happens during the holiday season. I know how hard it is to lose someone dear to you since I lost both grandmas in a span of a year and I was pretty close to them. We just have to continue living our lives and at least try to continue the legacy that they have started.
Well I'm still single, my last relationship was about 2 years ago and ever since that time, I have not really found the girl that I'm looking for. Maybe I have become too picky. At least my mom is not bugging me that much anymore on when am I going to have a girlfriend. Don't get me wrong, it's not like I'm afraid to be in a relationship, it's just every girl I went out with, I just can't get over their flaws - not that I am perfect. I'm pretty sure I have flaws too.
Ok, enough for the sad parts..
This year, it was a privileged to be part of the Forty Under 40 club. The Forty Under 40 is awarded to individuals, under the age of 40, who have made great strive not only in business but also in community service. This is the second year in a row that I have gotten an award that I could truly show off (even though I don't). Hopefully, I could make it three years in a row.
I always had a chance to see my best buddy from college this year after 3 years. It sure was great reliving the good old college days. Hopefully your work will bring you back here and hopefully you will get the suite again with the spectacular view of Central Park.
The VIP at Knicks-Heat game - wow, that was an awesome experience that I would never forget. Met with some Knicks Legends, watch the game on the Luxury Suite with all the food and drinks possible, got a chance to meet some of the current Knicks player. And of course, being able to stand in Center Court of Madison Square Garden. That is definitely one of my bucket list. Thank you American Express and Momentum for picking me.
This Year I met a lot of new friends, especially those who are in #TranceFamily. It all started during ASOT 400 and the family just exploded! Even DJs started using the hashtag on Twitter. I've talked to most of you and even met some of you. It sure was a fun 2010 from ASOT 450 to Electric Zoo. I am so glad to be part of this family, as the song goes "In Every Beat We're Closer." To the original members of #trancefamily down newest ones, we have to make new memories in 2011. And of course for the #GTV crew, more fun times together! Keep on trancing everyone and see you during ASOT 500.
The year saw me tweet a lot, I don't know if thats a good thing or not but without Twitter, there would be no #Trancefamily
And now for more thanks....
To my buddies for the Night Outs in the city, we always paint the town whatever color we want to and most of the time, we all have a good time.. KAMPAI!!!!
To the family who has been treating me as a member of the family. Stay strong during this time of trial and tribulation. You have always help me out from the day I've met you and I am here to always help out in which ever way I could.
To my colleagues who always look out for me - even though we all held different position, we all still treat each other equally. And for that I give you Thanks.
To Twitter, even though you have sent me to #twitterjail a couple of times, I still need to thank you because if its not for Twitter, there wouldn't be #trancefamily.
And to those who will read this last blog post for the year 2010, thank you for reading it. It sure has been a journey filled with good and bad memories. Time to make new ones in 2011.
Now stop reading this and go have wicked time ushering in 2011!!!!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
The Year that was 2010 - Business and Technology
This is a continuation of my Year End Review: 2010.. Part 4 of 5 - Business and Technology
Business and Technology
This year so the increase in popularity of smartphones and e-readers while businesses continue to falter due to this troubling economy.
China becomes 2nd largest World Economy
China became the second largest world economy in August surpassing Japan. In the second quarter, China's economic value was pegged at $1.33 trillion compared to Japan's $1.28 trillion.
Continental-United Merger
Continental Airlines and United Airlines started merger process and in August, the Justice department arrpove the merger between the two airline company creating the world's largest airline. Not to be outdone, Southwest Airlines bought AirTran Airway for $1.4 billion in September.
Toyota Woes
Toyota was fined a total of $48 million this year due to its numerous recalls with regards to its vehicles. It recalled 2.3 million vehicles in January due to accelerator problems. Then recalled about 5 million due to floor mats. It also recalled 436,000 hybrids due to faulty brakes.
Apple passes Microsoft as Most Valuable Technology Company
Apple surpassed Microsoft in May as the most valuable technology company after Microsoft has dominated the industry for over 20 years.
iPad
The iPad was introduced in January and sold in mid-April to much funfare. Of course, it was hounded by controversy when AT&T discovered a security leak on its website that exposed 114,000 email addresses of iPad Users and the FBI was asked to investigate.Of course, the iPad still has its shortcomings like it does not support Flash but there is always a work around.
iPhone4
So an engineer from Apple mistakenly left a prototype of iPhone 4 in a bar which was picked up by someone and then sold it to Gizmodo. All in a span of three weeks and started the iPhone 4 craze. Then it finally came out and reports of the "Death Grip" or even the glass casing shattering didnt deter consumers into buying the phone.
The Year of Facebook
Facebook surely garnered much attention this year from its privacy issues to the facebook movie, The Social Network, which garnered some Oscar buzz and it founder, Mark Zuckerberg, being named Time Magazine Person of the Year. Mark Zuckerberg donated $100 million to the Newark Public Schools
Google and China
Google threaten to leave China in response to the hacking of email accounts in Jan.
Even the giants fail
Carnival's Splendor cruise ship lose power off the California coast in November after a fire broke out in its engine room. For three days, more than 4500 passengers and crew members were left stranded at sea. Emergency food supplies were dropped on to the ship with its food supply diminishing. Tugs boats brought the ship back to San Diego. Carnival gave refunds to the passengers as well as trip vouchers.
First Full Face Transplant
A team of 30 Spanish doctors successfully completed the first ever full face transplant on March 20. Oscar (not his real name), a Spanish farmer, was disfigured after a gun accident in 2005. He was operated at Vall d'Hebron University Hospital in Barcelona. The 24 hour operation took two months to plan.
Protons Collided
On March 30, CERN or the European Organization for Nuclear Research smash two protons travelling 3.5 TeV of energy.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs struck New York City after Terminex released its list of worst cities for bed bugs and ranking NYC the worst. Businesses ranging from movie houses to clothing stores were force to shut down in order to get rid of the infestation.
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease, CNN, LA Times
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
The Year that was 2010 - Politics
This is a continuation of my Year End Review: 2010.. Part 3 of 5 - Politics
Politics
Politics was in the news most of the year. We had Immigration Law, Midterm Elections, Iraqi War, Nuclear Programs and of course, WikiLeaks
Pat Down Policy
TSA announce stricter screening requirement which got even stricter with the Pat-Down policy. Outrage was all over this new policies as passengers felt they are being grope or molested by the TSA agent. To top it all, the new body scan machine which suppose not to save any images do save them after some of body scan images were leak online. TSA has already announced that the Pat Down policy will stay.
War on Terror
The War on Terror gained ground in Feb when Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Taliban's top military commander was captured in Pakisten by American and Pakistani intelligence forces. But on August 31, Pres Obama announces Iraq combat end.
Arizona' controversial Immigration Law
In April, Arizona's governor, Jan Brewer, signed into law the toughest immigration bill of the country which allows law enforcement officials to identify and deport illegal immigrants if they cannot show proof of citizenship or visa.
Plane Crash
In April 10, Poland's President Lech Kaczynski, his wife and top political and military leaders were killed when the plane carrying them to Russia crashed due to thick fog. A total of 96 people were killed in the crash including the deputy foreign minister, 12 Parliament members, Army Chief, Navy Chield, and President of the National Bank.
Political Turmoil
Kyrgyzstan's president Bakiyev fleas Bishkek due to deadly protests and demonstrations with government troops and demonstrators battling in the streets resulting to at least 70 people killed and 400 wounded. In June, Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama announced his resignation just nine months into his term. Representative Charles Rangel was found guilty of Ethics Violations and House has censured him becoming the 23rd member of the House to be censured.
Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repealed
In December, the Senate repealed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy allowing gay men and women to serve in the military. President Obama signed the repeal on December 22.
Its not for president but Britain elected its new Prime Minister this year. Britain elected David Cameron as its new Prime Minister in May. Cameron took over for Gordon Brown whose approval ratings had been slumping for months
Women in Power
Women gained grown in the political scene. In August, Elena Kagan became the second woman to be part of the US Supreme Court after Sonia Sotomayor was nominated in 2009. Nancy Pelosi remained leader of House Democrats. The Brazil and Costa Rica elected their first woman presidents.
Spy Scandal
The nation was rocked with a spy scandal when 10 Russian spies where captured by the US. US and Russia then agreed to swap captured spies. The most famous of them is Anna Chapman due to her beauty. The media dubbed her as "Femme Fatale"
Suicide Bombs - Hits and Misses
In March, two female suicide bomber detonated themselves in two Moscow subway stations killing 39 people.
In May, New York City's Times Square was evacuated with a smoking car parked revealed a bomb. The bomb was successfully contained and led to the arrest of Faisal Shazhad.
World War III?
In November, North Korea attacked the island of Yeonpyeong in South Korea killing four heightening the tension between the two countries still reeling from the sinking of a South Korean warship.
WikiLeaks Rise and Fall
In July, WikiLeaks released war documents dating from 2004-2009. The documents included classified information with on what the US knew about the Iraqi, and Pakistan's involvement in the insurgency. But this December, Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, was arrested in England in connection to accusations of sexual assault made by two women in Sweden. This led to numerous Internet attacks against businesses seen as "enemies" of WikiLeaks. Assange was released on $310,000 bail but remains in British custody.
Politicians we lost: John Murtha, Robert Byrd, Elizabeth Edwards, Alexandar Haig, Richard Holbrooke, Lech Kaczynski, Nestor Kirchner, Ted Stevens, Charlie Wilson
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease, LA Times, CNN
Politics
Politics was in the news most of the year. We had Immigration Law, Midterm Elections, Iraqi War, Nuclear Programs and of course, WikiLeaks
Pat Down Policy
TSA announce stricter screening requirement which got even stricter with the Pat-Down policy. Outrage was all over this new policies as passengers felt they are being grope or molested by the TSA agent. To top it all, the new body scan machine which suppose not to save any images do save them after some of body scan images were leak online. TSA has already announced that the Pat Down policy will stay.
War on Terror
The War on Terror gained ground in Feb when Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Taliban's top military commander was captured in Pakisten by American and Pakistani intelligence forces. But on August 31, Pres Obama announces Iraq combat end.
Arizona' controversial Immigration Law
In April, Arizona's governor, Jan Brewer, signed into law the toughest immigration bill of the country which allows law enforcement officials to identify and deport illegal immigrants if they cannot show proof of citizenship or visa.
Plane Crash
In April 10, Poland's President Lech Kaczynski, his wife and top political and military leaders were killed when the plane carrying them to Russia crashed due to thick fog. A total of 96 people were killed in the crash including the deputy foreign minister, 12 Parliament members, Army Chief, Navy Chield, and President of the National Bank.
Political Turmoil
Kyrgyzstan's president Bakiyev fleas Bishkek due to deadly protests and demonstrations with government troops and demonstrators battling in the streets resulting to at least 70 people killed and 400 wounded. In June, Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama announced his resignation just nine months into his term. Representative Charles Rangel was found guilty of Ethics Violations and House has censured him becoming the 23rd member of the House to be censured.
Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repealed
In December, the Senate repealed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy allowing gay men and women to serve in the military. President Obama signed the repeal on December 22.
New President - new beginnings
There were a couple of new presidents this year. In Jan, Porfino "Pepe" Lobo Sosa was sworned in as the president of Honduras.He was elected in November during a political crisis and a coup against ex-President Jose Zelaya. His first decree was to grant political amnesty to those involve in the crisis.
In Feb, Sebastian Pinera became the first right-wing president of Chile after winning the runoff against Eduardo Ruiz-Tagle with 51.6% of the votes. Pinera, a billionaire businessman, took office on March 11 and was thrust in the spotlight this year with Chilean earthquake in Feb and the Chilean Miners during the month of August.
In June The people of the Philippines elected Benigno Aquino III has the 15th president of the Philippines this year and the 3rd youngest. The son of the late Senator Benigno Aguino Jr and former president Corazon Aquino, "Noynoy" was proclaimed the winner after garnering 15 million votes. His presidency has already been tested with his ongoing investigation of past administration, his plans to reform the education system and a hostage crisis to which 8 hostages were killed.
Costa Rica and Brazil have their first female presidents. Costa Ricans elected Laura Chinchilla in Febuary while Brazilians elected Dilma Rousseff in October and will succeed Luiz "Lula" da Silva in overseeing Brazil's rapid economic growth.
Other countries who have a new president are Iraq (Jalal Talabani), Nigeria (Goodluck Jonathan), Poland (Bronislav Komorowski) and Colombia (Juan Manuel Santos)
Its not for president but Britain elected its new Prime Minister this year. Britain elected David Cameron as its new Prime Minister in May. Cameron took over for Gordon Brown whose approval ratings had been slumping for months
Women in Power
Women gained grown in the political scene. In August, Elena Kagan became the second woman to be part of the US Supreme Court after Sonia Sotomayor was nominated in 2009. Nancy Pelosi remained leader of House Democrats. The Brazil and Costa Rica elected their first woman presidents.
Spy Scandal
The nation was rocked with a spy scandal when 10 Russian spies where captured by the US. US and Russia then agreed to swap captured spies. The most famous of them is Anna Chapman due to her beauty. The media dubbed her as "Femme Fatale"
Suicide Bombs - Hits and Misses
In March, two female suicide bomber detonated themselves in two Moscow subway stations killing 39 people.
In May, New York City's Times Square was evacuated with a smoking car parked revealed a bomb. The bomb was successfully contained and led to the arrest of Faisal Shazhad.
The Prince is taken
Prince William announced his engagement to long-time girlfriend Kate Middleton in November. William gave Middleton the ring that Princess Diana, his mother, wore during her engagement. The wedding date will be in April at Westminster Abbey.
North Korea's new leader
Kim John-Un, the youngest son of Kim Jong-Il, appeared during an event in North Korea and will eventually succeed Kim Jong-Il as the leader of North Korea.
World War III?
In November, North Korea attacked the island of Yeonpyeong in South Korea killing four heightening the tension between the two countries still reeling from the sinking of a South Korean warship.
Prop 8
Prop 8 was struck down by US Districk Judge Vaughn R. Walker citing it violated the federal constitutional rights of gays and lesbians to marry on August 4. However, the US Circuit Court of Appeals imposed an stay on Prop 8 a month later...
WikiLeaks Rise and Fall
In July, WikiLeaks released war documents dating from 2004-2009. The documents included classified information with on what the US knew about the Iraqi, and Pakistan's involvement in the insurgency. But this December, Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, was arrested in England in connection to accusations of sexual assault made by two women in Sweden. This led to numerous Internet attacks against businesses seen as "enemies" of WikiLeaks. Assange was released on $310,000 bail but remains in British custody.
US Politics saw its ups and downs.
A couple of reforms were signed into law this year. In March, Pres. Obama signed the health care law ensuring medical coverage for almost all Americans but the bill will not go into effect until 2014. The in July, he signed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act which promises that Americans would no longer have to pay for Wall Street's mistakes.
One of the memorable moments of the mid-term election was when GOP Senate candidate Christine O'Donnell released an ad claiming "I'm not a witch.".....
She is not in politics but 89 year old Helen Thomas, a White House reporter who has covered all presidents retired days after her controversial comments she made about the Jews.
Politicians we lost: John Murtha, Robert Byrd, Elizabeth Edwards, Alexandar Haig, Richard Holbrooke, Lech Kaczynski, Nestor Kirchner, Ted Stevens, Charlie Wilson
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease, LA Times, CNN
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The Year that was 2010 - Sports and Entertainment
This is a continuation of my Year End Review: 2010.. Part 2 of 5 - Sports and Entertainment
Sports and Entertainment
Sports
Tiger Woods Saga
Well, this really started around the end of 2009 but it was full blown in 2010 when it was revealed that Tiger has been cheating on Elin with 16 women. They have ever since filed for divorce
Winter Olympics tragedy
Tragedy struck the winter olympics before it even started when Nodar Kumaritashvili, a Luger from Republic of Georgia, died while training just hours before the opening ceremony when he lost control of his sled while traveling 90 miles per hour on Whistler Sliding Centre track. US took the overall medal count with 37 but host Canada took most of the gold with 14 medals.
The Saints win Super Bowl
The New Orleans Saints won the Super Bowl against heavily favored Indianapolis Colts 31-17. It was a surprise win since the Colts finished the season with 14-2 record losing only after Caldwell decided to sit out his starters the final two games.
But NFL marred with controversies
Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger was suspended for the first six games of the NFL season in April after an incident involving a 20 yr old college student. The suspension was reduced to 4 games and Big Ben has since led the Steelers to a playoff spot in the AFC division. Then in Sept, Ines Sainz a reporter for Azteca TV accused NY Jets assistant coach and players for harassing her during practice which the NFL investigated. In the same month, Jenn Sterger, a NY Jets "Gameday Host" revealed that Brett Favre sent her unwanted text and picture messages when Brett was playing for the Jets. The league has not make a decision against Favre.
Vick's comeback
Michael Vick started as a backup - now he is leading the Philadelphia Eagles to a playoff run after making a comeback in 2009.
Duke Wins NJCAA Mens Tournament
Duke wins NJCAA Mens Basketball Championship by defeating Butler 61-59 and ending Butler's 25 game winning streak. This year also saw Coach K tying Dean Smith for second place on the all-time wins list in College hoops after the Blue Devils defeating Elon 98-72 on December 20.
And the streak continues
In Women's College Basketball, the UConn Huskies beat Florida State 93-62 on December 22 to extend their winning streak to 89 and topped the 88 winning streak set by UCLA men's team from 1971-74
There goes the perfect game
Umpire Jim Joyce blew a call with 2 outs in the night and denied Armando Galarraga a perfect game in June. Joyce admitted he blew that call after watching the replay and apologize to Galarraga.
Africa as one nation
The World Cup - the soccer event that happens every four years that brings together the best soccer nations in the world. It happen this year in South Africa where everyone set aside their differences to enjoy this beautiful game. Sure there were a lot of things that happen, superstars were made while some fell, the demise of the French soccer team from greatness to embarrassment. Korea represented by both North and South. But one thing is certain, Bafana Bafana showed the world unity and grace in hosting the World Cup.
Longest Tennis Match Ever
This year, we saw the longest tennis match ever. The match, started on June 22, was between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut. It went for more then 11 hours of play over three days during Wimbledon. In the end, Isner won with the last game lasting eight hours. The match is the longest Grand Slam match, the fifth set was the longest ever to have been played, most number of games ever played, longest match at Wimbledon, longest set at Wimbledon, record number of aces.
Lakers win Back to Back
Los Angeles Lakers beat the Boston Celtics to win back to back NBA Championship on June 17. (A Special Day)
The 'King' heads to Miami
The 2009-2010 NBA season hasn't even ended yet when the 'Where's Lebron heading' took over the NBA buzz. Teams managers and president from New York, New Jersey, Miami, and Cleveland presented their proposal to Lebron and his agency on why he should play for their team. Rumors swirled that he was coming to play for New York, or he was staying in Cleveland with the firing of coach Mike Brown but in the end, he picked Miami Heat to team up with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh in the hopes to bring another NBA championship to Miami. Cleveland fans felt they were betrayed and owner Dan Gilbert blasted Lebron in an open letter to fans.
Entertainment
The showbiz buzz was abound this year.
Sandra Bullock
After winning the Golden Globes for "The Blind Side." Sandra was blindsided when husband Jesse James admitted to being unfaithful. She filed for divorce in April while announcing that she will be a single parent to her adopted son. Then her first public appearance was during the MTV Movie Awards to which she shared a kiss with Scarlett Johanssen.
Rise of Coco
January show the end of the turbulent tenure of Conan O'Brien on the Today Show when he agreed to a buyout by NBC. But that didnt stop him from having a talk show gig as TBS signed him to host on that start last November entitled Conan. During his first episode, he jokingly said that he aptly name the show "Conan" so that they could not replaced him.
Betty White
It sure was the year of Betty White. At age 88, Betty Betty stared in a Snickers ads during Super Bowl. Then a Facebook campaign aptly named "Betty White to Host SNL (Please)" was launched and sure enough she hosted SNL on May 9. The SNL episode garnered the show's highest rating since 2008. It also brought in her seventh Emmy winning the Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series. She now stars in TV Land's Hot in Cleveland and has guest roles in 30 Rock, Community, and The Middle.
Lindsay Lohan
She was sent to jail, then rehab, then sent back to jail for failing a drug test.
Charlie Sheen
The highest paid TV actor trashed his hotel room in NYC and was sentenced to rehab center for a month.
Bye Bye Simon
After six years are judge in American Idol, Simon Cowell announced he was leaving. American Idol also lost Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi but got replaced this upcoming season with Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.
Love Parade canceled..forever
Disaster struck the Love Parade in Duisburg, the longest running electronic dance music festival, on July 24 when a stampede occurred at the entrance to the venue resulting into 21 deaths and as least 500 injured. Due to this incident, the organizers have decided to to cancel the Love Parade and Festival permanently. DJs Armin van Buuren, Paul Oakenfold and Paul van Dyk collaborated together to produced "Remember Love," a single to which all the proceeds went to those who were affected by this tragedy.
The Year of Armin
It was the year of Armin. The Dutch DJ won the DJ Mag Top 100 for the fourth straight year. His show, A State of Trance, has 15 million listeners and he just started a new radio show on Sirus XM called A State of Sunday, a 24 hours of ASOT. He also completed in fourth artist album, Mirage, and is now on tour which is known as Armin Only.
The year of Glee
Glee broke out its second season with 13 million viewers, 19 Emmy nominations and a sold out tour. We are now all Gleeks!!
Notable Breakups
Courtney Cox and David Arquette, Sandra Bullock and Jesse James, Billy Ray Cyrus and Trish, Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman, Melissa Etheridge and Tammy Lynn Michaels, Al and Tipper Gore, Mel Gibson and Oksana Grigorieva, Shania Twain and Robert Lange, LeAnn Rimes and Dean Sheremet, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy, Kelsey Grammer and Camille Grammer
Sports and Entertainers we lost: George Steinbrenner, Brittany Murphy, Sparky Anderson, Manute Bol, Dixie Carter, Gary Coleman, Tony Curtis, Corey Haim, Dennis Hopper, Lena Horne, Leslie Nielsen, Bobby Thompson, John Wooden
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease
Sports and Entertainment
Sports
Tiger Woods Saga
Well, this really started around the end of 2009 but it was full blown in 2010 when it was revealed that Tiger has been cheating on Elin with 16 women. They have ever since filed for divorce
Winter Olympics tragedy
Tragedy struck the winter olympics before it even started when Nodar Kumaritashvili, a Luger from Republic of Georgia, died while training just hours before the opening ceremony when he lost control of his sled while traveling 90 miles per hour on Whistler Sliding Centre track. US took the overall medal count with 37 but host Canada took most of the gold with 14 medals.
The Saints win Super Bowl
The New Orleans Saints won the Super Bowl against heavily favored Indianapolis Colts 31-17. It was a surprise win since the Colts finished the season with 14-2 record losing only after Caldwell decided to sit out his starters the final two games.
But NFL marred with controversies
Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger was suspended for the first six games of the NFL season in April after an incident involving a 20 yr old college student. The suspension was reduced to 4 games and Big Ben has since led the Steelers to a playoff spot in the AFC division. Then in Sept, Ines Sainz a reporter for Azteca TV accused NY Jets assistant coach and players for harassing her during practice which the NFL investigated. In the same month, Jenn Sterger, a NY Jets "Gameday Host" revealed that Brett Favre sent her unwanted text and picture messages when Brett was playing for the Jets. The league has not make a decision against Favre.
Vick's comeback
Michael Vick started as a backup - now he is leading the Philadelphia Eagles to a playoff run after making a comeback in 2009.
Duke Wins NJCAA Mens Tournament
Duke wins NJCAA Mens Basketball Championship by defeating Butler 61-59 and ending Butler's 25 game winning streak. This year also saw Coach K tying Dean Smith for second place on the all-time wins list in College hoops after the Blue Devils defeating Elon 98-72 on December 20.
And the streak continues
In Women's College Basketball, the UConn Huskies beat Florida State 93-62 on December 22 to extend their winning streak to 89 and topped the 88 winning streak set by UCLA men's team from 1971-74
There goes the perfect game
Umpire Jim Joyce blew a call with 2 outs in the night and denied Armando Galarraga a perfect game in June. Joyce admitted he blew that call after watching the replay and apologize to Galarraga.
Africa as one nation
The World Cup - the soccer event that happens every four years that brings together the best soccer nations in the world. It happen this year in South Africa where everyone set aside their differences to enjoy this beautiful game. Sure there were a lot of things that happen, superstars were made while some fell, the demise of the French soccer team from greatness to embarrassment. Korea represented by both North and South. But one thing is certain, Bafana Bafana showed the world unity and grace in hosting the World Cup.
Longest Tennis Match Ever
This year, we saw the longest tennis match ever. The match, started on June 22, was between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut. It went for more then 11 hours of play over three days during Wimbledon. In the end, Isner won with the last game lasting eight hours. The match is the longest Grand Slam match, the fifth set was the longest ever to have been played, most number of games ever played, longest match at Wimbledon, longest set at Wimbledon, record number of aces.
Lakers win Back to Back
Los Angeles Lakers beat the Boston Celtics to win back to back NBA Championship on June 17. (A Special Day)
The 'King' heads to Miami
The 2009-2010 NBA season hasn't even ended yet when the 'Where's Lebron heading' took over the NBA buzz. Teams managers and president from New York, New Jersey, Miami, and Cleveland presented their proposal to Lebron and his agency on why he should play for their team. Rumors swirled that he was coming to play for New York, or he was staying in Cleveland with the firing of coach Mike Brown but in the end, he picked Miami Heat to team up with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh in the hopes to bring another NBA championship to Miami. Cleveland fans felt they were betrayed and owner Dan Gilbert blasted Lebron in an open letter to fans.
Entertainment
The showbiz buzz was abound this year.
Sandra Bullock
After winning the Golden Globes for "The Blind Side." Sandra was blindsided when husband Jesse James admitted to being unfaithful. She filed for divorce in April while announcing that she will be a single parent to her adopted son. Then her first public appearance was during the MTV Movie Awards to which she shared a kiss with Scarlett Johanssen.
Rise of Coco
January show the end of the turbulent tenure of Conan O'Brien on the Today Show when he agreed to a buyout by NBC. But that didnt stop him from having a talk show gig as TBS signed him to host on that start last November entitled Conan. During his first episode, he jokingly said that he aptly name the show "Conan" so that they could not replaced him.
Betty White
It sure was the year of Betty White. At age 88, Betty Betty stared in a Snickers ads during Super Bowl. Then a Facebook campaign aptly named "Betty White to Host SNL (Please)" was launched and sure enough she hosted SNL on May 9. The SNL episode garnered the show's highest rating since 2008. It also brought in her seventh Emmy winning the Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series. She now stars in TV Land's Hot in Cleveland and has guest roles in 30 Rock, Community, and The Middle.
Lindsay Lohan
She was sent to jail, then rehab, then sent back to jail for failing a drug test.
Charlie Sheen
The highest paid TV actor trashed his hotel room in NYC and was sentenced to rehab center for a month.
Bye Bye Simon
After six years are judge in American Idol, Simon Cowell announced he was leaving. American Idol also lost Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuardi but got replaced this upcoming season with Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.
Love Parade canceled..forever
Disaster struck the Love Parade in Duisburg, the longest running electronic dance music festival, on July 24 when a stampede occurred at the entrance to the venue resulting into 21 deaths and as least 500 injured. Due to this incident, the organizers have decided to to cancel the Love Parade and Festival permanently. DJs Armin van Buuren, Paul Oakenfold and Paul van Dyk collaborated together to produced "Remember Love," a single to which all the proceeds went to those who were affected by this tragedy.
The Year of Armin
It was the year of Armin. The Dutch DJ won the DJ Mag Top 100 for the fourth straight year. His show, A State of Trance, has 15 million listeners and he just started a new radio show on Sirus XM called A State of Sunday, a 24 hours of ASOT. He also completed in fourth artist album, Mirage, and is now on tour which is known as Armin Only.
The year of Glee
Glee broke out its second season with 13 million viewers, 19 Emmy nominations and a sold out tour. We are now all Gleeks!!
Stephen Colbert was in the political spotlight this year. In Sept, he testified to the Subcommittee on Immigration using his experience as a day laborer for a day. Then he was back in Washington in October, this time in the National Mall, as he and John Stewart hosted the 'Rally to Restore Sanity And/Or Fear.'
Lost is lost forever
After six seasons, Lost aired its finale on May 23. Everyone thought they would finally get the answers from the show but nope. The finale ended with questions left unanswered as JJ Abrams is known for doing with his series or films.
South Park controversy
The 200th episode of South Park sparked controversy when it was aired on April 14. It depicted Muhammad as a bear which enraged the Muslim community and a NY based radical Muslim group claimed that Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the show's producers, "will probably wind up like Theo Van Gogh."
Notable Breakups
Courtney Cox and David Arquette, Sandra Bullock and Jesse James, Billy Ray Cyrus and Trish, Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman, Melissa Etheridge and Tammy Lynn Michaels, Al and Tipper Gore, Mel Gibson and Oksana Grigorieva, Shania Twain and Robert Lange, LeAnn Rimes and Dean Sheremet, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt, Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy, Kelsey Grammer and Camille Grammer
Sports and Entertainers we lost: George Steinbrenner, Brittany Murphy, Sparky Anderson, Manute Bol, Dixie Carter, Gary Coleman, Tony Curtis, Corey Haim, Dennis Hopper, Lena Horne, Leslie Nielsen, Bobby Thompson, John Wooden
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease
Monday, December 27, 2010
The Year that was 2010 - Disasters
The usual thing I do before the end of the year is to look back in the past 12 months and see how the world has change. Since I do not remember everything that has happen, I scour the Internet in search for those events that has affected our lives. This would be a five-part posting starting with Disasters followed by Sports and Entertainment, Politics, Business and Technology and last would be my own look back on my own 2010.
I called 2010 an eventful year, not only because of the good things that had happen but also the bad ones. The scandals, the man-made disasters, the sputtering economy, even Mother Nature was at full force this year. But all these bad events were balanced out (sorta) by great things that had happen such as the Olympics, the World Cup and the 33 miners who survive their ordeal underground for 68 days.
As Zohan would say, "So Lets Go"
Disasters and Triumphs
The Earth Shook!!
Mother Nature sure showed her prowess this year starting off with a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti destroying the nation of 10 million with most living below the poverty line. The earthquake cause massive damages to infrastructure and killed an estimated 230,000 people and affected at least 250,000 residence making it the 6th deadliest earthquake of all time. Haiti is still feeling the effects of this natural disaster. Then in February 27, a 8.8 magnitude quake struck the coast of Maule in Chile producing a tsunami that destroyed Chile's coastal towns. The quake killed 500 people and cause $30 billion in damages while leaving 200,000 homeless. China was also hit by an earthquake in April. The province of Qinghai was struck with a 7.1 magnitude quake killing 2,000, injuring 10,000 and destroying 90 percent of the homes. Rescue efforts were slow due to the remoteness of the province. California and Mexico were shook by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in April - the strongest quake the state has experience in 20 years.
Snowstorm
Early February saw a major blizzard striking the east coast of the United States. The blizzard shuttered the state capital and the federal government for four and half days.
Eruption disrupt air travel
Then in April, Eyjafjallajokull (Icelandic for "island-mountain glacier") erupted on the 14th spewing pieces of rock and glass particle while its ash cloud cause massive cancellation of flights from Germany to London for six days. In all, a total of 100,000 flights were canceled and 8 million travelers affected. I remember this because twitter was abuzz with DJs apologizing for the canceled gigs due to their flights being canceled.
Sinkhole
June saw a massive sinkhole struck Guatemala City in Guatemala, the sinkhole measured 66 feet wide and 100 feet deep.
Floods
Pakistan would remember 2010 as the worst monsoon season in 100 years. Torrential downpour in July submerge a fifth of country in water and took the lives of 2,000 Pakistanis. And with flood comes the Cholera and Dengue fever epidemic that threatens the lives of 6 million who are still homeless. The US also saw its share of flooding with the Cumberland River in Nashville overflowed in May flooding Nashville and a good portion of the South with 13 feet of water and causing $2 billion in damages. Flash floods killed 18 people in campgrounds in Arkansas in June.
Wildfire
July also saw a massive wildfire in Russia that covered more than 300,000 acres. And it didn't help that Russia was in a heat wave resulting in dense smoke covering Moscow and residents and tourist needing to wear face mask as the air was filled with toxic fumes. Fortunately, the temperature drop in August which greatly help the firefighters in containing the wildfires.
Thick Fog
In April, a plane carrying Lech Kaczynski, Poland's president, his wife and 94 other people inlcuding political and military leaders, crashed while attempting to land in thick fog in Smolensk, Russia. I remember this becauseArmin had to canceled the last #ASOT450 celebration in Poland. Then in July, another plane crashed due to the same reason (thick fog) in Pakistan killing all 152 people on board.
Man-made disasters
Man-made disasters were in the news also this year with the BP oil spill headlining most of April until July. On April 20, a massive explosion on the Deepwater Horizon rig, a BP leased rig, killed 11 people and spewed at least 170 million gallons of crude oil in the Gulf, making it the worst man-made disaster of the year. The disaster cause extensive to the marine and habitats as well as the Gulf's fishing and shrimping business. The oil even made it all the way down to the beaches in Florida. The Gulf oil spill has been voted as the top AP news story of 2010 and it was the Top Trending Topic on Twitter this year beating World Cup, Inception, Haiti Earthquake and the Vuvuzelas.
In Oct, a toxic spill in Hungary kills 8 after a sludge reservoir burst sending 200 million gallon of toxic sludge to three villages. Hundred of people were forced out of their homes and the spill
This year was also marred with Mine disasters. In April, a explosion in a West Virginia coal mine resulted into 29 people death, making it the worst disaster in the US since 1970. Then in May, a blast in a mine in Sibertian City of Mezhdurechensk, Russia killed 43 people.
The 33
In the midst of all these disaster comes a triumph. On August 5, the San Jose copper-gold mine collapsed trapping 33 miners 2,300 ft underground. The miners were in isolation for 17 days until a drill bit tore through the shaft where the miners were trapped. News spread that the miners will not be rescued until at least December. The miners were sent food, oxygen and were allowed to chat with their families through video feeds. Then on October 12, two months before the estimated rescue date, the first of the miners were lifted out of the hole. On Oct 13 at 8:55pm EST, the last miner, shift foreman Luis Urzua was lifted out of the mine. The miners were trapped for 89 days and it was a miracle that they all survived. Quoting Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, "What started as a tragedy is ending as a real blessing."
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease
I called 2010 an eventful year, not only because of the good things that had happen but also the bad ones. The scandals, the man-made disasters, the sputtering economy, even Mother Nature was at full force this year. But all these bad events were balanced out (sorta) by great things that had happen such as the Olympics, the World Cup and the 33 miners who survive their ordeal underground for 68 days.
As Zohan would say, "So Lets Go"
Disasters and Triumphs
The Earth Shook!!
Mother Nature sure showed her prowess this year starting off with a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti destroying the nation of 10 million with most living below the poverty line. The earthquake cause massive damages to infrastructure and killed an estimated 230,000 people and affected at least 250,000 residence making it the 6th deadliest earthquake of all time. Haiti is still feeling the effects of this natural disaster. Then in February 27, a 8.8 magnitude quake struck the coast of Maule in Chile producing a tsunami that destroyed Chile's coastal towns. The quake killed 500 people and cause $30 billion in damages while leaving 200,000 homeless. China was also hit by an earthquake in April. The province of Qinghai was struck with a 7.1 magnitude quake killing 2,000, injuring 10,000 and destroying 90 percent of the homes. Rescue efforts were slow due to the remoteness of the province. California and Mexico were shook by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in April - the strongest quake the state has experience in 20 years.
Snowstorm
Early February saw a major blizzard striking the east coast of the United States. The blizzard shuttered the state capital and the federal government for four and half days.
Eruption disrupt air travel
Then in April, Eyjafjallajokull (Icelandic for "island-mountain glacier") erupted on the 14th spewing pieces of rock and glass particle while its ash cloud cause massive cancellation of flights from Germany to London for six days. In all, a total of 100,000 flights were canceled and 8 million travelers affected. I remember this because twitter was abuzz with DJs apologizing for the canceled gigs due to their flights being canceled.
Sinkhole
June saw a massive sinkhole struck Guatemala City in Guatemala, the sinkhole measured 66 feet wide and 100 feet deep.
Floods
Pakistan would remember 2010 as the worst monsoon season in 100 years. Torrential downpour in July submerge a fifth of country in water and took the lives of 2,000 Pakistanis. And with flood comes the Cholera and Dengue fever epidemic that threatens the lives of 6 million who are still homeless. The US also saw its share of flooding with the Cumberland River in Nashville overflowed in May flooding Nashville and a good portion of the South with 13 feet of water and causing $2 billion in damages. Flash floods killed 18 people in campgrounds in Arkansas in June.
Wildfire
July also saw a massive wildfire in Russia that covered more than 300,000 acres. And it didn't help that Russia was in a heat wave resulting in dense smoke covering Moscow and residents and tourist needing to wear face mask as the air was filled with toxic fumes. Fortunately, the temperature drop in August which greatly help the firefighters in containing the wildfires.
Thick Fog
In April, a plane carrying Lech Kaczynski, Poland's president, his wife and 94 other people inlcuding political and military leaders, crashed while attempting to land in thick fog in Smolensk, Russia. I remember this becauseArmin had to canceled the last #ASOT450 celebration in Poland. Then in July, another plane crashed due to the same reason (thick fog) in Pakistan killing all 152 people on board.
Man-made disasters
Man-made disasters were in the news also this year with the BP oil spill headlining most of April until July. On April 20, a massive explosion on the Deepwater Horizon rig, a BP leased rig, killed 11 people and spewed at least 170 million gallons of crude oil in the Gulf, making it the worst man-made disaster of the year. The disaster cause extensive to the marine and habitats as well as the Gulf's fishing and shrimping business. The oil even made it all the way down to the beaches in Florida. The Gulf oil spill has been voted as the top AP news story of 2010 and it was the Top Trending Topic on Twitter this year beating World Cup, Inception, Haiti Earthquake and the Vuvuzelas.
In Oct, a toxic spill in Hungary kills 8 after a sludge reservoir burst sending 200 million gallon of toxic sludge to three villages. Hundred of people were forced out of their homes and the spill
This year was also marred with Mine disasters. In April, a explosion in a West Virginia coal mine resulted into 29 people death, making it the worst disaster in the US since 1970. Then in May, a blast in a mine in Sibertian City of Mezhdurechensk, Russia killed 43 people.
The 33
In the midst of all these disaster comes a triumph. On August 5, the San Jose copper-gold mine collapsed trapping 33 miners 2,300 ft underground. The miners were in isolation for 17 days until a drill bit tore through the shaft where the miners were trapped. News spread that the miners will not be rescued until at least December. The miners were sent food, oxygen and were allowed to chat with their families through video feeds. Then on October 12, two months before the estimated rescue date, the first of the miners were lifted out of the hole. On Oct 13 at 8:55pm EST, the last miner, shift foreman Luis Urzua was lifted out of the mine. The miners were trapped for 89 days and it was a miracle that they all survived. Quoting Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, "What started as a tragedy is ending as a real blessing."
Sources: Yahoo! 2010 in Review, Wikipedia, Twitter, Infoplease
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas everyone!! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season filled with Peace, Love, and Joy.
Always enjoy this holiday with your loved ones.
Geseënde Kersfees | Gëzuar Krishtlindjet | عيد ميلاد مجيد | Շնորհավոր Սուրբ Ծնունդ | З Калядамі | Весела Коледа | Bon Nadal | 圣诞节快乐 | 聖誕節快樂 | sretan Božić | veselé Vánoce | Glædelig jul | Gelukkig Kerstfeest | Häid jõule | Maligayang Pasko | hyvää joulua | Joyeux Noël | Bo Nadal | Frohe Weihnachten | Καλά Χριστούγεννα | Fete Nwèl | חג מולד שמח | मेरी क्रिसमस | Boldog Karácsonyt | Selamat Hari Natal | Buon Natale | メリークリスマス | 메리 크리스마스 | Priecīgus Ziemassvētkus | Linksmų Kalėdų | Среќен Божиќ | Selamat Hari Krismas | ilied it-Tajjeb | God jul | کریسمس مبارک | Wesołych Świąt | Feliz Natal | Crăciun fericit | С Рождеством | Срећан Божић | Veselé Vianoce | Vesel božič | Feliz Navidad | Mutlu Noeller | สุขสันต์วันคริสต์มาส | З Різдвом Христовим | کرسمس | Chúc Giáng Sinh Vui Vẻ | Chúc Giáng Sinh Vui Vẻ | לעבעדיק ניטל
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
#Trancefamily Letter
Good Morning,
The Year is Near The End. We have been blessed with great tunes this year and it’s not a Mirage that 2010 is Not The Same as previous years.
People asked Who We Are? I tell them that we are #trancefamily, a group of trance music lovers from all walks of life bound together Listening to tunes like She Gave Happiness, Hartseer, Touchstone, Anphonic, Black Flowers, So Long Radio and Black is the New Yellow and many others. We listen to them any time of the day whether it would be 0100 hr, This Night, Last Minute, or Tomorrow. And Don’t Give A F*ck what others might say.
#Trancefamily is full of love, it’s almost like being in a Lovers Lane. We got Bromance and True Romance. We even Remember Love for those who we have lost during Love Parade. So even though we are all far away, trance makes it feel that I am By Your Side making sure you’ll Never Cry Again even though we end up with tears during emotional tunes.
Of course the Perception is that we are junkies; that we become Humanoid due to the Florescence that hovers on top of our heads. But we aren’t and we give them a Mindful and earful of what trance is about.
Trance has brought all of us Closer, gave us Hope that we are not alone. It has become our Sanctuary, our Angel, our Comet, our Hymn 2.0, ourSymphonica and even our Vanilla. It is The String That Bind Us together from Miami 2 Ibiza. It is The Great Escape from Citadel or Forbidden City. It is practically in our D.N.A.
450 brought us real close. Basically, Nothing Else Matters but listening to the tunes till Daylight. For 5 nights, we Let Go of all worries, and felt Safe From Harm. And it sure Feels So Good as we try chanting 'One more Song' as well as 'Not Going Home'.
You felt like a Revolution in You, that These Silent Hearts woke up with Everything To Lose and nothing to gain. We just love trance, we listen to it On A Good Day, during Rain or even Sun in the Winter.
Every Thursday is like a holiday to us with A State of Trance. Armin got our Full Focus as he spins tunes such as Save Me, She Moves, Not Giving Up On Love, This Light Between Us, Free My Willy, Tweak Your Nipple, and Behind Your Smile
It’s Safe to say that trance won’t be here if not for the DJs and us. They Need Us and we need them Right Back. Who knows, maybe one day, one of us will get the Calling and be one of the top DJs as well. Just don’t Cross the Line and forget about us.
We are Imprisoned by trance, Frozen and in a state of Absolute Reality, visiting the world of Aisha, Orbion and Pandora. Maybe in 2099, they will look back and say “We should go back to 2010 and relive the Moment”
In the end, we Found A Way to be together even though we are Far Away from each other. And as long as Armin and the other DJs continue to come out with great tunes, we will all continue to listen, fist pump and sing our hearts out Till The Sky Falls Down and Live Forever in trance.
For those who I have met this year at various trance gigs, Miss You.
Hope to see you all at #ASOT500, it’s almost like a Coming Home party.
We Found each other through trance. We.Are One
Editors Note: As you have notice, I have some of the words in BOLD and COLORED. If you haven't notice, those are title of tunes this year. And if you still haven't notice, those are the tunes that are included in ASOT Yearmix 2010 - All 97 tunes. I use to this all the time and decided to try it out once again.
The Year is Near The End. We have been blessed with great tunes this year and it’s not a Mirage that 2010 is Not The Same as previous years.
People asked Who We Are? I tell them that we are #trancefamily, a group of trance music lovers from all walks of life bound together Listening to tunes like She Gave Happiness, Hartseer, Touchstone, Anphonic, Black Flowers, So Long Radio and Black is the New Yellow and many others. We listen to them any time of the day whether it would be 0100 hr, This Night, Last Minute, or Tomorrow. And Don’t Give A F*ck what others might say.
#Trancefamily is full of love, it’s almost like being in a Lovers Lane. We got Bromance and True Romance. We even Remember Love for those who we have lost during Love Parade. So even though we are all far away, trance makes it feel that I am By Your Side making sure you’ll Never Cry Again even though we end up with tears during emotional tunes.
Of course the Perception is that we are junkies; that we become Humanoid due to the Florescence that hovers on top of our heads. But we aren’t and we give them a Mindful and earful of what trance is about.
Trance has brought all of us Closer, gave us Hope that we are not alone. It has become our Sanctuary, our Angel, our Comet, our Hymn 2.0, ourSymphonica and even our Vanilla. It is The String That Bind Us together from Miami 2 Ibiza. It is The Great Escape from Citadel or Forbidden City. It is practically in our D.N.A.
450 brought us real close. Basically, Nothing Else Matters but listening to the tunes till Daylight. For 5 nights, we Let Go of all worries, and felt Safe From Harm. And it sure Feels So Good as we try chanting 'One more Song' as well as 'Not Going Home'.
You felt like a Revolution in You, that These Silent Hearts woke up with Everything To Lose and nothing to gain. We just love trance, we listen to it On A Good Day, during Rain or even Sun in the Winter.
Every Thursday is like a holiday to us with A State of Trance. Armin got our Full Focus as he spins tunes such as Save Me, She Moves, Not Giving Up On Love, This Light Between Us, Free My Willy, Tweak Your Nipple, and Behind Your Smile
It’s Safe to say that trance won’t be here if not for the DJs and us. They Need Us and we need them Right Back. Who knows, maybe one day, one of us will get the Calling and be one of the top DJs as well. Just don’t Cross the Line and forget about us.
We are Imprisoned by trance, Frozen and in a state of Absolute Reality, visiting the world of Aisha, Orbion and Pandora. Maybe in 2099, they will look back and say “We should go back to 2010 and relive the Moment”
In the end, we Found A Way to be together even though we are Far Away from each other. And as long as Armin and the other DJs continue to come out with great tunes, we will all continue to listen, fist pump and sing our hearts out Till The Sky Falls Down and Live Forever in trance.
For those who I have met this year at various trance gigs, Miss You.
Hope to see you all at #ASOT500, it’s almost like a Coming Home party.
We Found each other through trance. We.Are One
Editors Note: As you have notice, I have some of the words in BOLD and COLORED. If you haven't notice, those are title of tunes this year. And if you still haven't notice, those are the tunes that are included in ASOT Yearmix 2010 - All 97 tunes. I use to this all the time and decided to try it out once again.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Wintuk
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| Courtesy of Wintuk |
This is the second Cirque du Soleil production that I have seen (KA was the first) and I would say that the Cirque never disappoint. And if you have seen a Cirque production, you surely know that acrobatic acts and mind-boggling stunts are part of the show. The show started off with skateboarders, inline skaters and bike riders doing acrobatic twist and turns.
One of the acrobatic acts that I really like was the equilibruist who had to balance himself on a village clothesline in a quest to retrieve his pants back. It sure kept everyone on the edge of their seats as he perform a series of moves and turns that made you think he wouldn't be able to stay on the rope but he did. Another one that I like was the hoops act where the artist performed by combining contortion and hula-hoops moves that would make you think "how did she do that?"
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| Courtesy of Wintuk |
The one that really caught my attention and made me really wonder was the rag doll act. During this act, the businessman and the thief fight over a life-size doll twisting and bending it to like impossible positions. And at the end, to everyone's amazement, the life-size doll was a real person.
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| Courtesy of Wintuk |
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| Courtesy of Wintuk |
The music was live - yup, the band was separated with the strings on the left side of the theater while percussion was on the right. The melody and the tune selections worked really well with the stunts as well as the storyline. The right music always add that 'ump' in any story.
And the finale was just phenomenal. I wont say it here so as not to ruin it for those who are planning to see it but I would give you a clue - it would involve the entire theater.
Wintuk is on its final season this year so this is the last year to catch it before its gone - forever.
Wintuk website
PS. This is part of my Bucket List - watch all Cirque du Soleil production in the US - 2 down (KA and Wintuk), many more to go..
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Update - Bucket List: 365 Birthdays
Update: I added couple more birthdays but I still have a long way to go...
So I was just looking through my calendar and adding birthdays of new people I have met (it helps me remember) and came up with an idea. Wouldn't it be great if I would be able to know someone who is celebrating his/her birthday in each day of the year. Yep, that would be 365 birthdays - I'll even include the leap day. But I will not just ask anyone for their birthdays, I have to know the person. This is going in to my Bucket List
So as of tonight, here is what I have (once in yellow)
Jan - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Feb - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29
Mar - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Apr - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
May - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Jun - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
July - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Aug - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Sept - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Oct - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Nov - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Dec - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
This does not include my own birthday and I got a long work ahead of me.
So I was just looking through my calendar and adding birthdays of new people I have met (it helps me remember) and came up with an idea. Wouldn't it be great if I would be able to know someone who is celebrating his/her birthday in each day of the year. Yep, that would be 365 birthdays - I'll even include the leap day. But I will not just ask anyone for their birthdays, I have to know the person. This is going in to my Bucket List
So as of tonight, here is what I have (once in yellow)
Jan - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Feb - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29
Mar - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Apr - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
May - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Jun - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
July - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Aug - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Sept - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Oct - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Nov - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
Dec - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
This does not include my own birthday and I got a long work ahead of me.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Restaurant Review: Miso Nara
22 S. Main Street
New City, NY 10956
(845) 639 - 6993
Fax (845) 639 - 5386
Japanese
Price: $2 - $60
Dine In, Take Out
Located in the heart of Main Street in New City is Miso Nara, a small Japanese restaurant that is known to the locals as New City Sushi. And when I write small, I mean it literally. The exterior is slightly decorated with Japanese themed-product such as Red Lantern except for the electronic sign that flash Open. Once you open the glass door, you will notice how small the place is. It only has five tables that could seat about only 10 people and a elevated sushi bar which can seat 5 people. But the small area is compensated by the friendly atmosphere. I was quickly greeted by Sushi Chef named Lin (not too sure about his name) who was friendly enough that he chatted with the clientele while making his sushi and sashimi. The place was clean and very organized and cozy. I grabbed a menu while waiting for my server and they have an expansive array of dishes from sushi and sashimi to udons and tempura. For a small place, they sure packed a lot of variety.
They have lunch specials and I took the liberty to order one from the specials. I went for the Tempura Box which was compose of 1 California Roll, 2 Shrimp Tempura, 3 pcs of Vegetable Tempura, 3 pcs of Shumai, Rice and Salad. I can see why this place is visited by a lot of people, Lin was nice enough to ask if I want my order to be spicy - from behind the sushi bar. I didn't have to wait for a long time as my miso soup arrived. The miso soup was served in a typical Japanese bowl. The soup was warm and tasty which was perfect for the cold weather. The tofu was soft and spices weren't overwhelming. Then my spicy salad arrived, it tasted fresh and just had enough kicked to it. Finally my main dish, the tempura box was the typical black exterior, red interior box but the presentation was superb. The tempuras were warm and crisp with a little bit of sweetness to it. The California roll was so fresh that you could taste each ingredient really well. The rice was perfectly cooked, salad with ginger dressing was fresh and bountiful and the shumai were tasty. Then the server brought me a dessert courtesy of Lin - a piece of sweet potato roll. I never had this kind of roll in any Japanese restaurants I've been to and this sure was an experience. And to clean my palate - I got a small slice of vanilla mochi ice cream.
This small place packs a lot of punch and I'm pretty sure will be back to try the other dishes on their menu. Even tag along some friends.
New City's website
Rockland County's website
Rockland Eateries Online - Listing of restaurants in Rockland County
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Restaurant Review: Di Fara Pizza
1424 Avenue J
at E. 15th St
Brooklyn, NY 11230
(718) 258 - 1367
Pizza
Price: $2 - $35
Dine In, Take Out
So my buddy called me up yesterday afternoon and asked if I was in the mood for pizza. I was but little did I know that we would be traveling an hour and a half to Midwood, Brooklyn for the pizza. My buddy said that I won't be disappointed.
Di Fara Pizza's is located in Midwood Brooklyn. Its a little pizzeria on the corner of Avenue J and 15th Street. We got there around 6:30pm and they were just opening the door. In less than 5 minutes, the place was packed with patrons as everyone started ordering the hand-made pizzas by Domenico DeMarco who has been making pizzas for more than four decades. We were the second patrons to placed an order and luckily got a table. I went up to see Mr. DeMarco make his pizza and I would say, it was amazing to see him make his masterpiece. He was very delicate but intricate in making each pie and I could see that the patrons didn't mind the wait.
So we ordered one special pie and two slices of the square pie. We also had to wait but it sure was worth it. We first got our square slices and I was so hungry that I decided to take a first bite. Big mistake, it was fresh out of the oven and kinda burn my tongue a bit. Anyway, the slice was really good, the crust ws well cook and the cheese just melts into your mouth. The basil gave it a touch of color and fragrance. It was worth my tongue getting burned.
Then our pie came and you could just see everyone eying the pie, freshly out of the oven. The special pie ($35) is made up of fresh mozzarella cheese, onions, Italian sausage, mushrooms and grated parmesan cheese topped with fresh basil which Domenico adds after pulling the pizza out of the oven. This was even better. The crust was crisps, the tomato sauce was sweet while the rest of the ingredients just made the whole pie look tempting and tasty. I took my time in eating my slices - smelling the aroma as I took each bite and let it sit inside my mouth - tasting all the fresh ingredients in my palate. I can't believe we finished the whole pie between my and my buddy.
So was it worth it to travel all the way to Brooklyn for Di Fara Pizza... you betcha
Fact: Di Fara has been only closed once - when Domenico De Marco had to have foot surgery.
at E. 15th St
Brooklyn, NY 11230
(718) 258 - 1367
Pizza
Price: $2 - $35
Dine In, Take Out
So my buddy called me up yesterday afternoon and asked if I was in the mood for pizza. I was but little did I know that we would be traveling an hour and a half to Midwood, Brooklyn for the pizza. My buddy said that I won't be disappointed.
Di Fara Pizza's is located in Midwood Brooklyn. Its a little pizzeria on the corner of Avenue J and 15th Street. We got there around 6:30pm and they were just opening the door. In less than 5 minutes, the place was packed with patrons as everyone started ordering the hand-made pizzas by Domenico DeMarco who has been making pizzas for more than four decades. We were the second patrons to placed an order and luckily got a table. I went up to see Mr. DeMarco make his pizza and I would say, it was amazing to see him make his masterpiece. He was very delicate but intricate in making each pie and I could see that the patrons didn't mind the wait.
So was it worth it to travel all the way to Brooklyn for Di Fara Pizza... you betcha
Fact: Di Fara has been only closed once - when Domenico De Marco had to have foot surgery.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Recipe: Spicy Chicken Drumsticks
As most of you know, spicy wings have been a staple for Superbowl Sunday. But what if you are tired of eating wings all the time? So I decided to make my own Spicy Chicken Legs. More meat to the bone..
Ingredients:
10 chicken drumsticks
1 Lemon, sliced in half
3 small boiler onions, minced
2 tbsp Paprika powder
1 tbsp Garlic powder
2 tbsp pepper
2 tsp cooking oil
1 jalapeno pepper, minced
2 tbsp Siracha hot sauce
1 cup water
1 tbsp flour
Preparation:
1. Place the drumsticks into a pot, pour water until the drumsticks are covered.
2. Add in oil, garlic powder, 1 tbsp of pepper, and juice of half a slice of lemon. Cover and boil till the chicken is cooked.
3. Meanwhile in a separate bowl, add in juice of the other half of lemon, paprika powder, minced boiler onions, jalapeno pepper, water, siracha hot sauce and flour. Mix well and set aside.
4. Heat up oven to 350F.
5. Once the chicken is done. Place the drumsticks in a foil pan. Pour in the mix sauce and baked for 30 - 40 minutes.
6. Serve while its hot.. and I mean HOT!!!
Enjoy
Ingredients:
10 chicken drumsticks
1 Lemon, sliced in half
3 small boiler onions, minced
2 tbsp Paprika powder
1 tbsp Garlic powder
2 tbsp pepper
2 tsp cooking oil
1 jalapeno pepper, minced
2 tbsp Siracha hot sauce
1 cup water
1 tbsp flour
Preparation:
1. Place the drumsticks into a pot, pour water until the drumsticks are covered.
2. Add in oil, garlic powder, 1 tbsp of pepper, and juice of half a slice of lemon. Cover and boil till the chicken is cooked.
3. Meanwhile in a separate bowl, add in juice of the other half of lemon, paprika powder, minced boiler onions, jalapeno pepper, water, siracha hot sauce and flour. Mix well and set aside.
4. Heat up oven to 350F.
5. Once the chicken is done. Place the drumsticks in a foil pan. Pour in the mix sauce and baked for 30 - 40 minutes.
6. Serve while its hot.. and I mean HOT!!!
Enjoy
Friday, November 26, 2010
Restaurant Review: Union Restaurant and Bar Latino
24 New Main St.
Haverstraw, NY 10927
(845) 429 - 4354
South America
Price: $6 - $26
Dine In and Take Out
This was my second time to visit Union Restaurant and Bar Latino for dinner with friends. We decided to go back here since we enjoyed our dinner the last time we went to this Latin-infused restaurant.
Opened in 2007 and only 45 minutes away from the New York City, Union is located right in the heart of Haverstraw, one of the rivertowns of Rockland County.
The outside edifice is made of up high glass windows surrounded by red bricks which is almost typical of the town's other building. The interior is cozy with red tile floors, white tables, wooden padded chairs and arches that separates the dining area. There is a full bar that serves a variety of cervezas, wines and champagnes as well as various cocktails. Most of the tables can accommodate a foursome but they do cater to bigger groups.
Once you are inside, you are greeted by their friendly wait staff and servers who will answer all your questions about the menu. There wasn't much of a crowd when we went the second time and this could be attributed to the bad weather the county experience that day. Anyway, we got seated, and ordered. For our drinks, we decided to share a pitcher of Sangria ($24.00) which was just amazing. Its one of the best sangria's I have ever tasted. Our server brought out a soup in small tea cups compliments of the chef David Martinez. I forgot the name of the soup but it was creamy and delicious.
For appetizers, I had Sopa de Cebolla ($6.00), an onion soup with Madiera wine and Manchego cheese. The soup was tasty, onions were cooked well, not too soggy and the cheese was just amazing. My friends had salads and they commented that they taste fresh. For my entree, I had Salmon Teriyaki ($21.50). Its white sesame seed crusted salmon with spinach and rice. I was surprised that this was in the menu and just had to try it. It surely was a good choice. The salmon was cooked well, wasn't flaky and the teriyaki sauce didn't overpower the salmon taste. We ordered a side of tostones and it came out crisp. We were just full after our appetizers and entrees that we didn't have a chance to order desserts.
Overall, Union Restaurant has great ambience, well-mannered staff and delicious food that would make you want to visit the place again and again.
Union Restaurant and Bar Latino website
The Town of Haverstaw
Rockland County
Haverstraw, NY 10927
(845) 429 - 4354
South America
Price: $6 - $26
Dine In and Take Out
This was my second time to visit Union Restaurant and Bar Latino for dinner with friends. We decided to go back here since we enjoyed our dinner the last time we went to this Latin-infused restaurant.
Opened in 2007 and only 45 minutes away from the New York City, Union is located right in the heart of Haverstraw, one of the rivertowns of Rockland County.
The outside edifice is made of up high glass windows surrounded by red bricks which is almost typical of the town's other building. The interior is cozy with red tile floors, white tables, wooden padded chairs and arches that separates the dining area. There is a full bar that serves a variety of cervezas, wines and champagnes as well as various cocktails. Most of the tables can accommodate a foursome but they do cater to bigger groups.For appetizers, I had Sopa de Cebolla ($6.00), an onion soup with Madiera wine and Manchego cheese. The soup was tasty, onions were cooked well, not too soggy and the cheese was just amazing. My friends had salads and they commented that they taste fresh. For my entree, I had Salmon Teriyaki ($21.50). Its white sesame seed crusted salmon with spinach and rice. I was surprised that this was in the menu and just had to try it. It surely was a good choice. The salmon was cooked well, wasn't flaky and the teriyaki sauce didn't overpower the salmon taste. We ordered a side of tostones and it came out crisp. We were just full after our appetizers and entrees that we didn't have a chance to order desserts.
Overall, Union Restaurant has great ambience, well-mannered staff and delicious food that would make you want to visit the place again and again.
Union Restaurant and Bar Latino website
The Town of Haverstaw
Rockland County
Friday, November 19, 2010
WMC vs Ultra
So the dates for Winter Music Conference and Ultra Music Festival has been announced.
AND BOY IT WAS A BIG SURPRISE!!!
A little history, Winter Music Conference, is a weeklong electronic dance music event held annually during the month of March in Florida. The event, started in 1985 has become one of the premier EDM events with DJs, artists, record label representatives, producers, promoters, media and EDM fanatics converging in Miami for a week long celebration.
In 1999, Ultra Music Festival was born and had become the festival that closes out Winter Music Conference. UMF or more known as Ultra, started at Miami Beach but had to move to Bayfront Park due to the festival growing in number of attendees. It has also been known to sold out almost every year making it one of the biggest festivals in the United States.
Then came 2011...
On November 16, 2010, Winter Music Conference issued a press release that WMC will be held on March 8 - 12. During the announcement, I decided to check the website and one of the events was still Ultra Music Festival. And a line that states "A WMC badge includes admission to Ultra Music Festival". So in my mind, ASOT 500 (Armin van Buuren's 500th show celebration in March) was going to be a stand alone event.
I was wrong..
After a few hours, organizers of UMF issued a press release stating the Ultra will be held on March 25 - 27. This resulted into a massive surprise to event goers as well as DJs. I still remember that night when twitter world was all about the breakup of WMC and UMF. Now everyone is stuck with the same question,
which one to attend, WMC or UMF?
Speculation were everywhere on why WMC and UMF broke up and what would now happen those who want to attend both festival. Last Wednesday, Club Space owner Luis Puig issued a statement defending WMC and slamming UMF accusing it of greedy practices. Here are some excerpts from his manifesto
"WMC used to be about free parties with DJs and industry folks sharing and enjoying new music. Now, it is about greed and money"
"I love Ultra and what they bring to the game... but I do not agree with their greedy strategy to manipulate and monopolize Music Conference. This is just not good for anyone"
"..without WMC, there would be no Ultra Music Festival"
Organizers of WMC has stated that they were "blindsided" by UMF's announcement and that Ultra's organizers breach a contract they signed in 2009 which stated that the "2011 UMF would be presented during the five-day period in February, March or April 2011 designated and promoted by WMC as the 'WMC week'."
UMF organizers blames WMC organizers for the scheduling conflict and it wasn't able to move the event to coincide with WMC due to another festival that is being held on March 13 at Bicentennial Park (Calle Ocho street fair). It also stated that it "was rendered impossible by the City of Miami police department as they [would] not have the resources to host Ultra Music Festival and Calle Ocho in Miami on the same weekend."
So what are the repercussion of the split?
For one, event goers will now have to decide which festival to attend, especially those who cannot afford to be at both festival. Then DJs might end up having to choose to support only WMC or UMF which means that it will be harder for attendees to decide which festival to attend to. And to complicate matters, EDM promoters must now act to see whether they want to thrown two different parties on two different festivals.
What do you think? Which side will you align yourself?
AND BOY IT WAS A BIG SURPRISE!!!
A little history, Winter Music Conference, is a weeklong electronic dance music event held annually during the month of March in Florida. The event, started in 1985 has become one of the premier EDM events with DJs, artists, record label representatives, producers, promoters, media and EDM fanatics converging in Miami for a week long celebration.
In 1999, Ultra Music Festival was born and had become the festival that closes out Winter Music Conference. UMF or more known as Ultra, started at Miami Beach but had to move to Bayfront Park due to the festival growing in number of attendees. It has also been known to sold out almost every year making it one of the biggest festivals in the United States.
Then came 2011...
On November 16, 2010, Winter Music Conference issued a press release that WMC will be held on March 8 - 12. During the announcement, I decided to check the website and one of the events was still Ultra Music Festival. And a line that states "A WMC badge includes admission to Ultra Music Festival". So in my mind, ASOT 500 (Armin van Buuren's 500th show celebration in March) was going to be a stand alone event.
I was wrong..
After a few hours, organizers of UMF issued a press release stating the Ultra will be held on March 25 - 27. This resulted into a massive surprise to event goers as well as DJs. I still remember that night when twitter world was all about the breakup of WMC and UMF. Now everyone is stuck with the same question,
which one to attend, WMC or UMF?
Speculation were everywhere on why WMC and UMF broke up and what would now happen those who want to attend both festival. Last Wednesday, Club Space owner Luis Puig issued a statement defending WMC and slamming UMF accusing it of greedy practices. Here are some excerpts from his manifesto
"WMC used to be about free parties with DJs and industry folks sharing and enjoying new music. Now, it is about greed and money"
"I love Ultra and what they bring to the game... but I do not agree with their greedy strategy to manipulate and monopolize Music Conference. This is just not good for anyone"
"..without WMC, there would be no Ultra Music Festival"
Organizers of WMC has stated that they were "blindsided" by UMF's announcement and that Ultra's organizers breach a contract they signed in 2009 which stated that the "2011 UMF would be presented during the five-day period in February, March or April 2011 designated and promoted by WMC as the 'WMC week'."
UMF organizers blames WMC organizers for the scheduling conflict and it wasn't able to move the event to coincide with WMC due to another festival that is being held on March 13 at Bicentennial Park (Calle Ocho street fair). It also stated that it "was rendered impossible by the City of Miami police department as they [would] not have the resources to host Ultra Music Festival and Calle Ocho in Miami on the same weekend."
So what are the repercussion of the split?
For one, event goers will now have to decide which festival to attend, especially those who cannot afford to be at both festival. Then DJs might end up having to choose to support only WMC or UMF which means that it will be harder for attendees to decide which festival to attend to. And to complicate matters, EDM promoters must now act to see whether they want to thrown two different parties on two different festivals.
What do you think? Which side will you align yourself?
Thursday, November 11, 2010
To live or not to live... in the city
This was posted on my other blog before I decided to make that blog only about music.. I posted this almost a year ago and I'm still contemplating whether living in the city or living in the suburbs is better...
As I signed on to Facebook last night, I saw the Tiesto was going to have a free show last night but only for 100 people. This surely got me thinking... if I live in the city, I would have surely jumped out of my apartment and headed to where the concert will be and surely be one of the hundred people trying to go in. So let's see what are the positives and negatives on living in the city...
The positives...
No more driving
I go to the city all the time - sometimes, twice in a week. And I would say it takes 60 miles round trip when driving to the city. Not to mention the hassle of finding parking especially in certain areas. If I take public transportation, it would cost roughly $20 back and forth. It's not much but the travel time is the killer - I will be sitting on the bus or the train for 45 minutes to an hour. Oh and btw, it takes the same amount of travel time if you live in Queens yet where I live is considered Upstate. So if I live in the city, I don't have to drive, no need to find parking and my travel time would greatly lessen to quarter of my current travel time. That means more time having fun.
More events
I always get notices about events in the city and mostly I would go to a couple of them but if I live in the city, then I would definitely go to more events. I could go to free movie screenings on Mondays to rooftop street fairs on Sundays, not to mention the numerous concerts and Happy Hours that I could easily get to.
The city life
I use to live in a big metropolis and really live the rough and tumble of it. Everything is so near to each other that its almost impossible to not find something you want or something to do. And with New York City, you can basically see everything from museums to parks, from concerts to comedy clubs, from sporting events to festivals. It sure feels like everything is at your grasp.
Now for the negatives...
It's expensive
Yes, there are so many things in the city to do that are for free but not everything is free. Everything in the city cost more than where I live - not to mention that higher sales tax.
Smaller living quarters
Unless you have a six figure job, then your living quarters will be smaller than what you might think. For the amount of money I'm paying, I would surely not have an apartment of the same size and quantity in the city. I would probably only get a third of the size - almost like my previous apartment when I was living with roommates which I probably wouldn't be doing anymore.
Quiet neighborhood
I do like the rough and tumble of the city but once in awhile, I would love peace and quiet and that wont be possible in the city that never sleeps. Probably the only way you can do it is to plug your ears and where eye shades.
So there are positives and negatives of living in the city. And I'm sure there are lot more reasons that most of you have (share if you are willing). I do still want to try living in the city but I guess only if there is a real reason for me to move...
As I signed on to Facebook last night, I saw the Tiesto was going to have a free show last night but only for 100 people. This surely got me thinking... if I live in the city, I would have surely jumped out of my apartment and headed to where the concert will be and surely be one of the hundred people trying to go in. So let's see what are the positives and negatives on living in the city...
The positives...
No more driving
I go to the city all the time - sometimes, twice in a week. And I would say it takes 60 miles round trip when driving to the city. Not to mention the hassle of finding parking especially in certain areas. If I take public transportation, it would cost roughly $20 back and forth. It's not much but the travel time is the killer - I will be sitting on the bus or the train for 45 minutes to an hour. Oh and btw, it takes the same amount of travel time if you live in Queens yet where I live is considered Upstate. So if I live in the city, I don't have to drive, no need to find parking and my travel time would greatly lessen to quarter of my current travel time. That means more time having fun.
More events
I always get notices about events in the city and mostly I would go to a couple of them but if I live in the city, then I would definitely go to more events. I could go to free movie screenings on Mondays to rooftop street fairs on Sundays, not to mention the numerous concerts and Happy Hours that I could easily get to.
The city life
I use to live in a big metropolis and really live the rough and tumble of it. Everything is so near to each other that its almost impossible to not find something you want or something to do. And with New York City, you can basically see everything from museums to parks, from concerts to comedy clubs, from sporting events to festivals. It sure feels like everything is at your grasp.
Now for the negatives...
It's expensive
Yes, there are so many things in the city to do that are for free but not everything is free. Everything in the city cost more than where I live - not to mention that higher sales tax.
Smaller living quarters
Unless you have a six figure job, then your living quarters will be smaller than what you might think. For the amount of money I'm paying, I would surely not have an apartment of the same size and quantity in the city. I would probably only get a third of the size - almost like my previous apartment when I was living with roommates which I probably wouldn't be doing anymore.
Quiet neighborhood
I do like the rough and tumble of the city but once in awhile, I would love peace and quiet and that wont be possible in the city that never sleeps. Probably the only way you can do it is to plug your ears and where eye shades.
So there are positives and negatives of living in the city. And I'm sure there are lot more reasons that most of you have (share if you are willing). I do still want to try living in the city but I guess only if there is a real reason for me to move...
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Lexus After Dark Event
The After Dark Tour was held at Marquee Club, an ultra lounge in Chelsea district. The event allows guests a sneak preview of the new Lexus CT 200h and chat with a Lexus vehicle specialist while enjoying complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and live music with The Honey Brothers and DJ Sky Ferreira.
It was a pretty mixed crowd that attended the event and from different states. I talked to a couple who are from Georgia and got an invite to attend the event. Anyway, complimentary hors d'oeuvres composed of potatoes and caviar, lobster ravioli, baked calms, and lamb chops among others were served to the guest. And I must say, whoever was at the kitchen was doing an excellent job. The lamb chops was tender while the lobster ravioli and baked calms were really good.
After the band ended, the guest were then asked to move into the second floor lounge from some desserts such as truffles and apple tarts while still enjoying the complimentary cocktails and dance to the tunes of DJ Sky Ferreira who played a mixture of hip-hop and pop music. The party ended at 11pm but guest where allowed to stay the rest of the night and still enjoy complimentary drinks all throughout the night.
Lexus After Dark | Marquee Nightclub | Honey Brothers | DJ Sky Ferreira
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Restaurant Review: Thai Family
 |
| Courtesy of Thai Family Website |
16 Second Street
New City, NY 10956
(845) 708-5858
(845) 708-5859 (Fax)
Cuisine: Thai
Price Range: $2 - $19.95
Credit Card Accepted
Hours: Mon - Thur: 11am - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 12am - 9:30pm
So while skimming through today's paper, I saw an ad for the grand opening of Thai Family Restaurant with a picture of Anna and Sam, former executive chefs of Thai House in Nyack. And that surely caught my eye since I enjoyed eating at Thai House that I had to check this place out.
I got to the place and it sure was a little bit hard to find if you are not familiar with the town of New City. The two-way street is tucked in between Maple Ave and Park Ave and is mostly residential. Parking is on the street but there were some people playing soccer on the house across the street so I decided to park my car at Maple Ave and walked back.
The first time you see the place, you will think twice whether this was the restaurant. It's on a small residential-like structure with a dry-cleaning store beside it. There are a couple of small tables outdoors but it was just too cold to sit outdoors.
Once you are in, you surely see that this is a small family-owned restaurant. The dining area is only compose of 4 2-person tables and 1 4-person table that is decorated with Thai-themed objects and images. The table-tops had a nice Thai-themed fabric underneath a pane of glass with a bamboo in a small vase. What it lacks in decor is made up with friendly service. The hostesses were very friendly and were eager to promote the business to their customer. I got seated and was given the menu which was quite extensive. Each item also has a brief description and the red pepper icon symbolizing that the dish is Hot and Spicy. Since it was a chilly night, I decided to order some Vegetarian Tofu Tom Yam Soup ($4.25) and for my entree, the Pad Ma Moung with a combination of Chicken, Pork & Shrimp ($15.95). The hostess asked me if I want it mild or spicy and I went for spicy for both.
After a wait of less than 10 minutes, my Tom Yam Soup arrived. Tom Yam Soup is a Thai style hot and sour soup and it surely was spicy on my first try that when the hostess asked if it was spicy enough, I told her definitely. The soup had very tasteful and the spiciness wasn't too overpowering that I could still taste the lime juice as well as the tomatoes, mushrooms and onion.
 |
| Pad Ma Moung |
If you can get passed through the store and decor, then you can truly enjoy what Thai Family has to offer. I'm pretty sure I will be back again and again and again. And maybe next time, I will try their Pad Thai.
Thai Family Restaurant - Website | Directions
Friday, October 15, 2010
Dewar's Tasting Event
The night started with cocktail hour where guest were treated to various hors d'oeuvres such as Mozarella and Tomatoes, Chicken Sliders, Beef Sliders and so much more. And you got to wash the finger food down with your choice of either Dewar's on the Rocks, Dewar's Smash and Dewar's and Ginger.
 |
| Dewar's Smash |
Then our emcee, who is one of Dewar's ambassadors for which I cannot remember his name, announce that it was time for the tasting event. He asked everyone to line up near the curtain and the Dewar's ladies led us in to our table. The tasting room had tables that fit 8 guest and setup in a semi-circle with screens at the back of the room showing Dewar's history and another screen up front. Once seated, each guest have have 5 glasses filled with drips of Scotch and water, and 5 test tubes containing different flavored White Label whiskey (Honey, Fruity - Citrus, Floral, Vanilla and Smokey - Peat). I even had a chance to smell the peat when our ambassador lighted and allow us to smell the smokey flavor.
Dewar's Fact: Dewar's master blender is a female. Yes, you see it right, Stephanie Macleod is the first woman and the seventh master blender in Dewar's 160 year history. The reason, females have a better sense of smell.
Dewar's website
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