chisme from the mandog and life's true stories

Spring is here and time to show your faces!

2011-04-09T17:11:00.000-07:00

With Dolores Huerta

So many things are happening the next few months. I do a lot of work for some great non profits and this is the time of the year they are planning or hosting their annual fund raising events.

GLAD (Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc.) will be rockin’ on June 5^th at the House of Blues, hosting their 9^th Annual GLAD Benefit Extravaganza. This year the event is a little different than in past years… an evening event, rather than the their typical Sunday Brunch. Rachel Braver, Director of Public Relations has once again rolled up her sleeves and along with the generous help from hair stylist to the stars– Ken Paves, this years all star cast that includes actresses Eva Longoria, Marlee Martlin, and music sensation Jody Stevenson, promises to be an event not to miss! The lose of hearing or being born deaf is hard for many of us to imagine. Our deaf and hard of hearing community needs your support. If you able to attend great! If you are able to provide a corporate sponsorship, or know anyone who might be able to, please contact GLAD at 323/478-8000.


Dolores Huerta with Fr. Richard Estrada

Dr. Gabriel Buelna and Ronn Savala

Councilman Jose Huizar

On March 31^st we helped celebrate Cesar Chavez Day with Plaza Community Services. Dr. Gabriel Buenla and his staff hosted an afternoon of food, music and education at their 1^st Street work training facility. Community members of the Boyle Heights area took advantage of Plaza’s hospitality and were graced with the presence of labor union icon Dolores Huerta. Ms. Huerta was gracious enough to sign posters of Cesar Chavez (provided by Diversity Graphics) as well as pose with community members for pixs. Also in attendance was Coucilman Jose Huizar (Los Angeles District 14) and Father Richard Estrada. Children were treated to face painting, hands on planting of various seeds amongst other activities. The staff kept busy grilling hot dogs and demonstrating their new “Mobile Workshop” which provides job training and job searches for those in need.

Lucien Fiiyer-Smith & Ms. Maiya Sykes

Lucien Fiiyer-Smith & Annmarie Macy

Colombo's Italian Steakhouse and Jazz Club was rocking in the month of March. Tony Lunn, Irene Diaz and the fabulous Maiya Sykes with the Endangered brought some fresh new music to Eagle Rock. Colombo’s (if you haven’t been there) is a great place to hang if you want some good food and great music. Vic Parrino has is a true supporter of the Eagle Rock community. He is part of what makes Eagle Rock a great place to live!

PMS Sisters!

Spa day was held once again. This time we were treated to have some fabulous women. To our surprise the women who booked the event were members of Casa0101. The PMS sisters! Miriam Peniche and Blanca Melchor kept Ronn Savala and I laughing for hours!!! Myself, I think I gave them some pretty good ideas for some future material… I hope they give me credit damn it : )~ I told them next them they come to bring handsome Adrian Gonzalez, of course he will only be eye candy as I am married!

May is National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), officially proclaimed "Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month" by President Barack Obama, is a celebration of the culture, traditions, and history of Asians Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Congress passed a joint Congressional Resolution in 1978 to commemorate Asian American Heritage Week during the first week of May. This date was chosen because two important anniversaries occurred during this time: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in America on May 7, 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad (by many Chinese laborers) on May 10, 1869. In 1990 Congress voted to expand it from a week to a month long celebration and in May 1992, the month of May was permanently designated as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.”

You can purchase Diversity Graphics 2011 Asian Pacific American Heritage Month poster for $5.00 each. Visit www.diversitygraphics.com.

Well that’s it for now, enough Chisme until next time.

Peace

Election Time!

2011-03-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

It’s time to elect (re-elect) our local leaders here in the City of the Angeles. We live in District 14 which cover Eagle Rock, Boyle Heights, Mt. Washington, El Serreno and parts of Highland Park . . . Mostly Latino households and many Mom and Pop businesses.

The race for Councilman has just two names on the ballet. I guess the average Joe no longer finds it in her/his interest to represent a pretty progressive group of communities. Maybe it’s the cost, maybe it’s the lack of interest, maybe our local community leaders just are burnt out. I don’t know, but its upsetting that we are given just two choices. So tomorrow March 8th your gonna either vote for the incumbent José Huizar or his challenger Rudy Martínez.

I haven’t decided who to vote for and that’s a first as I usually have made up my mind months ahead of time. Huizar hasn’t really done an earth shaking job. This have been done during his term(s) but nothing to write home about. Martínez is a good businessman, but not having the experience in politics concerns me, you can run a successful business but City Hall is a whole other game. Maybe next race we will have some really good candidates that will want the voter to go out and vote!

School board District 5 race is a whole other story. You got several candidates and two of them who might be in a run off. You have the politically back Luis Sanchez which offers us nothing more than same stamp of approval that sits currently on the Board and UTLA backed classroom leader Bennett Kayser. No brainer here, I am voting for Mr. Kayser for the sole reason that if we keep on electing the same old same old, NOTHING CHANGES! Enough is enough, let’s put some fresh blood on that board! I found this funny video on YouTube of Mr. Sanchez….

Now for the fun… On February 25th my fab friend Ms. Jenny Lens invited Ronn Savala and I to her exhibit of California Punk photos over at the Subliminal Projects Studio in Echo Park. The event entitled “Too Fast to Live, To Young to Die… selctions from California Punk and featured other works (besides Ms. Lens) BY EDWARD COLVER, SHEPARD FAIREY, GLEN E. FRIEDMAN, DAVE MARKEY, RAYMOND PETTIBON, JORDAN SCHWARTZ, WINSTON SMITH was a hit!

SHEPARD FAIREY and JENNY LENS real crowd pleasers!

What a nite! Ronn and I came early as Jenny Lens was kind enough to put us on her VIP list. It was a rainy nite and the crowd was many. Because we were let in 1 hour before the opening we got to see much of the exhibit. They had a wall covered with Xerox copies of band fliers (just like the old days before fancy inexpensive printing). And the music DJ’s by Mr. Shepard Fairey made for fun memories. One of my favorite actresses, Drew Barrymore was in the crowd. She bought a pix of Joan Jertt and Lita Ford from Jenny Lens (good pick Drew!). Of course I had to take advantage of the Kodak moment so enjoy the pics!

Myself and Ms. Drew Barrymore!

The girl with the Camera Eye Jenny Lens, Drew Barrymore and a Ramone

New friend Kelly Flint sporting one of the fliers from the wall. BTW she has a fab hair do!

Jenny Lens and Rom Savala enjoying a cold one!

Super Chingona and woman about town, Josefina Lopez will be celebrating her 42n birthday on March 18th… Happy B-Day Josefina!

My neighbor Tony Lunn and his trio are playing at Colombo’s Italian Steakhouse and Jazz Club on Saturday, March 12th. Their set begins at 9:30 pm. His music is inspiring so I hope you get a chance to catch his show.

Finally, March is National Women's History Month... you can purchase my poster from Diversity Graphics and join the celebration!

2011... The Year of Success!

2011-01-28T10:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day. Our friend Irene Diaz and Seung Park stopped by to meet Ricardo and Cita. They are going to be working on a project and this was the perfect time for them to meet each other as it’s rare for everyone to be in the same place at the same time! You can tell by the smile that Ronn Savala had a good time!

Starting out the New Year was not fun. I had caught a cold on December 30t and lasting until November 6th, so ringing in the new year was not a happening this year only a warm blanket and lots of Nyquil oh the joy.

December was very busy, more busy than years past. Work flow was good spent lots of time with friends and family. Since my birthday is in December (the 17th) usually there is the lunches and dinners but this year I wanted my friends to join me and do something different. It was perfect timing this year as Josefina Lopez and her troop were putting on their annual “PMS Sisters” extravaganza!

If you never ventured over to Casa0101 located in the heart of Boyle Heights, well your missing some pretty good local talent. P.M.S. “The Pinche Mentirosa Sisters” in “Kiss my Mistletoe” is just one of many plays put on last year by Ms. Lopez and her crew. P.M.S. is a fast-paced theatrical comedy featuring vignettes that unabashedly tackle society’s taboos and celebrates the camaraderie of women.

Staring and written by Josefina Lopez, Miriam Peniche, April Ibarra, Blanca Melchor, with the participation of Adrian Gonzalez and directed by Hector Rodriguez. P.M.S. once again had us rolling in laughter and leaving the show with big smiles. Next time the gang brings out the P.M.S. gang make it a point to get your bootie over Casa0101.

After the show Josefina was kind enough to invite us to her after-party-xmas party just down the street from the venue. There we eat, drank and all had a festive jolly good time. I usually am in bed by 9:00 but this was my special evening and having had such a great time at the play, it was a pleasure to be amongst the cast and guest of Casa0101. Dancing into the nite I got my weekly shot of exercise. At one point the DJ span “Dancing Queen” at which point I noticed Josefina dancing away and decided to show her what a real dancing queen dances like!

A few days before x-mas our gang got together here in Eagle Rock to make some Tamales! This time of year never goes by without us getting down and dirty in the process it takes to make them delicious corn meal delights! Ruthie from Buena Vista Furniture had to be the chingona of course, nothing will be done unless she has the final OK. So I thought we were going to do them on a Friday, so I got everything ready… no one came so I put everything away then I get a phone call from Ms. Buena Vista telling me it was Monday… Ayi Dios.

Monday, Eagle Rock, California 9:00 a.m. I am waiting for the ladies to call/come by. I had all my meats prepared, my masa ready to go, my olives, my drinks…everything. Time kept ticking, ticking, then I get a phone call from Sandra Ponche asking if Ruthie was there, I told her no and it’s now 1:30… so she called and so on and so forth and finally Juana Medina shows up at 3:00! The first of many who eventually got her. So the group was all together by 5:00 and we started tamaling away.

Needless to say, making Tamales this year with an all women crew was a lot of fun and I can’t wait till next year to do it all again… this time I will trick them with them time so they get it right!

Christmas Eve. This year was different than most as it’s the first time I was not with my whole family for many, many, years. My sister Rosa moved with her family and my mother to Buckeye, Arizona a few years ago. Last year we drove there, this year because of the rain we all stayed home. My sister Alice and my nephew Richard though were here and come over to enjoy the Tamale eating and drink. Joining us were Cita and Ricardo our two musically gifted and stars of “La Victima”, and our very, very good friend Steve Rodriguez. It was a fun nite as we sat around and enjoyed enough other’s conversation and had some damned good food.

Christmas Day. Our friend Irene Diaz and Seung Park stopped by to meet Ricardo and Cita. They are going to be working on a project and this was the perfect time for them to meet each other as it’s rare for everyone to be in the same place at the same time!

After some chatting we all ventured into the van and headed over to Clifton’s for some good ole Christmas Day breakfast. Pancakes and sausage, Menudo, Chilicillias, eggs, food, food, food!!! Well it was worth the extra pounds. Downtown is so beautiful and it was nice to spend Christmas morning there with friends.

Well as I opened with, New Years I was down with a cold. I am concentrating on finishing up projects, starting new projects and making 2011 a joyful, healthy and successful one. So here’s to the New Year. May we all find peace and success!

Finally, February is National Black History Month...

Black History Month is an annual observance in February, celebrating the past and present achievements of African Americans. In February 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, proposed the establishment of "Negro History Week" to honor the history and contributions of African Americans to American life. Dr. Woodson, known as the "Father of Black History", chose the second week of February because it commemorates the birthdays of two men who greatly affected the African American community: Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14). Negro History Week became Black History Week in the early 1970's. In 1976, the week-long observance was expanded to a month in honor of the nation's bicentennial.

Black History Month is sponsored by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). The Association was founded in 1915 by Dr. Carter Woodson--historian, teacher, author and publisher. Each year the Association designates the national theme for Black History Month. In 2011, the association's theme is "African Americans and the Civil War” in honor of the efforts of people of African descent to destroy slavery and inaugurate universal freedom in the United States.

Please visit Diversity Graphics and browse through our website and select the many materials that will help your business, school, place of work, or organization celebrate Black History Month!

Diversity Graphics National Black History Month Poster [BP11] 13" x 19" poster are $5.00 each.

We are gonna miss you LA ABEJA!!!

2010-10-01T16:40:00.000-07:00

Roy Fonseca at the gates of La Abeja.

First, I want to talk about my good friend Rogelio Fonseca and his RETIREMENT from over 40 years of one of the BEST Mom and Pop Mexican restaurants in all of Los Angeles... "LA ABEJA".

I first started going to Abeja about 1993, located in Mt. Washington I was introduced to the place by my crazy friend Lucia Rivera and her friend Ivy Orta. It was there we would to religiously almost every Saturday and Sunday. I would pick everyone up in my 1979 pickle green VW van and on our way we go. There is no formal seating at Abeja but everyone knows where to seat, favorite seat, favorite spot. We liked to sit in the middle of the restaurant as if it was our own private island.

A cold beer was almost always needed as the nite before our delicious breakfast we usually went to some changlasa or friends house and whooped it up the night before, so we would walk down the street to grab some brew at the corner convenient store the walk back and down it!

Johnny Carrillo, Tia Gloria and Ronn Savala

Now we were ready to order! Tia Gloria would make her way from other orders and with a beautiful smile and soft voice asked us what we wanted to order. A cup of Menudo for Lucia and I always as well as a plate of beans and tortillas!!! BTW the beans are EXCELLENT~ I don't know how old Tia Gloria is but it's nice to know there are still places that appreciate the good help elders can provide and although slow and careful, Tia Gloria ALWAYS delivered the goods.

Friends having a GREAT time.

After a few weeks of our weekly routine we started to attract groupies! One day as we are strolling out of the VW Rogelio comes out to greet us and informs us that we have a group of gay gentleman that have waited for us to arrive! The week before (after we left) they asked him if we come frequent and when. I guess the loudness of two crazy Mexican Americans / Chicanos and one loud Puerto Rican was great entertainment to them. We didn't let our new found fame distract us from being ourselves cause if any of you know us you know we are always a bit on the crazy side!

Over the last 17 years we have watched the Fonseca family grow. Vee, Monica, Roy, Jr. three GREAT kids now three great adults. Julia and Roy certainly did a great job at raising their children. Respectful and were ALWAYS fun to joke around with. They certainly understood their community and appreciated it's diversity.

The cooks at Abeja also were part of the dynasty. Charlie, Poncho and Hector. I could make Charlie screw up everyone's order just by looking at him! I would make him nervous and blush. I never understood why but it was fun to watch him turn red! Poncho always conservative and kept his cool. Hector... a character himself! One time I went with my friend Adam Valdez for lunch. Usually Ronn is with me but this time he was working so my friend Adam went with me. After about 15 minutes Hector comes over and looks me in the eyes then stares down Adam and tells me "WHERE'S RONN"... I replied "Ronn?", Hector "Yes Ronn!" I am going to tell him you are cheating on him! I looked at Adam and insured him that Hector was just looking out for me and Ronn and well it was funny. I told Hector "You think I would be so stupid as to have an affair then bring them to a place where everyone knows me?"

Ex Councilman Mike Hernandez and Rogelio Fonseca

A visit to Abjea is always interesting, you NEVER know who you will see there, from Political leaders to Community Activists, to the crazies in the town... it was always an adventure.

Rogelio Fonseca and Rogelio Fonseca, Jr.

Lastly, there are sooooo many stories I can't possibly tell them all here but we are going to miss you Roy... and we love you and wish you much success as the political melting pot that you created will be surely missed. You have brought together so many friends and it was nice to know that you could always go to Abeja and be with friends. From the local politicals, policemen, city workers, community members... La Abeja is special. We love you and wish you much success in your retirement.

Mark

OK now for some fun stuff:

BUENA VISTA FURNITURE is having their annual End of Summer super dooper, grande, big, huge Sale from October 7th through 10th. You should drop on by on October 7th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. as our friend Irene Diaz and friends will be performing. Irene is an very talented young woman who is sure to be a star! There will be food and spirits not to mention their prices on sales items are going to be FANTASTIC!!! Buena Vista has the most amazing selection or unique and original furniture and accessories for you home. Drop on by and see for yourself and enjoy the evening with good food and music.

Please check out TheNonProfitNetwork's "I've Got Something To Say" with host Gabriel Buelna with Arizona Congressman Raul Grijalva as they discuss the economic boycott of Arizona, immigration law and Mexico's role in fighting illegal immigration.
http://www.youtube.com/user/NonprofitNews#p/a/u/1/Oz1Sk05owCA

Let's Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month!

2010-09-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

National Hispanic Heritage Month Poster [HP10]

A brief history on National Hispanic Heritage Month:

Hispanic Heritage Month is the period to recognize the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States and to celebrate Hispanic heritage and culture. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week was approved by President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into Law on August 17, 1988 on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

"September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. They all declared independence in 1821. In addition, Mexico, Chile and Belize celebrate their independence days on September 16, September 18 and September 21, respectively. "

This year especially it is important for us to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month by demonstrating the importance of the contributions and culture we of Hispanic heritage have made. Not only in the arts but also as political and social leaders.

Growing up in Los Angeles (the melting pot many cultures) it is amazing to see just how many background of Hispanic/Latino cultures are intermixed with everyday life. There are so many places in Los Angeles that one visits that reminds us of this. From El Pubelo “Olivera Street” downtown, to the berths in San Pedro… so many flavors of Hispanic/Latino life all around.

Food, oh let’s not forget the many flavors this rich culture has brought to America. Tacos, Burritos, Salsas, Moles, the list goes on and on… Mouth watering foods on our plates that make our taste buds happy day in and day out in the city of Angels. From the Salvadorian Pupusa to the Argentine Empanada, we are lucky to have such variety of dishes available to us on a daily basis.

Contributions not only from flavorful food, but from the many talents that have come from these colorful countries. Artists such as the Queen of Salsa “Celica Cruz” and Academy Award winning Penelope Cruz, have given our youth the inspiration to go forward with their creative culture and talents. Political figures such as Congressman Xavier Becerra, and Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis– wonderful role models for a new generation of Hispanic/Latino leaders… our future. Yes Hispanic Heritage Month is a great time to celebrate! A celebration not only of culture and tradition, but the many contributions of Hispanic/Latino Americans.

Sí Se Puede! Yes we can!

To purchase this poster visit Diversity Graphics.

DEAF AWARENESS WEEK

2010-09-14T15:45:00.000-07:00

Deaf Awarness Week is celebrated across the country the last week of September. There are many events held during this time to celebrate the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community as well as many educational events.

Locally in Los Angeles here are some events provided by GLAD that you and your family can attend or participate in:

Eyes of Deafness: Photographs by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Adults
September 2-29
fINdings Art Center
470 W. 6th Street
San Pedro, CA 90731

This is part of the Art Walk, so there will be many other galleries open as well as cafes and restaurants within walking distance of fINdings. This is a great opportunity to explore and discover an historical neighborhood that has been revitalized. The gallery is open Thursday-Saturday from 6-9 p.m. or by special appointment.

American Sign Language Courses – Fall 2010
September-November
2222 Laverna Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90041
10-week courses
ASL I: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, Sept. 18-Nov. 20 (required book to purchase: VISTA Signing Naturally Level One)
ASL II: Thursdays, 6-9 p.m., Sept. 16-Nov. 18 (required book to purchase: VISTA Signing Naturally Level One)
ASL III: Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m., Sept. 14-Nov. 16 (required book to purchase: VISTA Signing Naturally Level Two)
(These books can be found on amazon.com)
REGISTRATION CLOSED

Hearing Loss Technology Expo
Wednesday, September 22
6-8:30 p.m.
2222 Laverna Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90041

DEAFestival Los Angeles 2010
Saturday, September 25
Noon-6 p.m.
Woodley Park
6350 Woodley Avenue
Van Nuys, CA 91406

Councilmember Huizar of CD-14 is sponsoring a bus for people who need transportation to DEAFestival in Van Nuys on Saturday, September 25. It is free for riders but there are limited seats! Contact Elizabeth at eluttrell@gladinc.org or 866-939-3149 VP to RSVP on a first come, first serve basis! Reservations end Wednesday, September 22. People who are guaranteed a seat will receive an e-mail or phone call from Elizabeth Luttrell with further details, so please provide your contact information.

Grand Opening of GLAD’s Visual Communications Center
Wednesday, September 29
4-6 p.m.
2222 Laverna Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Reception, opening remarks by GLAD CEO, Dr. Patty Hughes, and special guests, red-ribbon cutting ceremony and demonstrations of videophone technology.

Celebrating International Day of Sign Language Rights: Californians for ASL 2010
Thursday, September 30
State Capitol, North Side
10th Street & L Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Celebrate American Sign Language and the World Federation of the Deaf’s Proclamation of International Day of Sign Languages, hosted by the California Association of the Deaf.

GLAD is a wonderful organization and if you ever wanted do volunteer work this organization is a friendly and great place to do it. I am fortunate to work with Dr. Patricia Hughes and Rachel Braver on many of GLAD events. Hats off to GLAD and their stuff and a happy Deaf Awareness Week!

9/11... My view on this traggic day.

2010-09-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

The anniversary of 911… 9 years ago. I remember exactly what I was doing and what was happening that day. I wake up pretty much the same time everyday (between 5:00 – 5:30 am) I always turn on the radio to listen the the mornings new as I get ready to take my shower, but this particular day I would be interrupted by the shocking news. At first the news was sketchy but still interesting enough to make me stop and walk out of the bath room and tell my husband that a plane had crashed into the twin towers…. he thought I was joking (as I often do to get his attention) but I assured him that I was not and we turned on the tele to Channel 5 News. It was at that moment that the reality set in. It was at that time we watched in horror as the second plane crashed straight into the second tower! Needless to say the fear started to set in as I quickly grabbed my phone and called my neighbor Barbara Sandoval to see if she was aware of the happenings.

I learned something important that day from Barbara… Go straight to the store, buy some groceries and take out as much money you can from the ATM! It was the best advice anyone gave me that day as soon after the banks would be closed, the planes wouldn’t be flying and life just changed… changed in seconds (too bad Obama’s change has not come as fast!).

Ronn Savala (my husband) was working for a company and had booked several education classes in Las Vegas that week to educate on hair color. We decided to take the drive regardless not realizing just how much of an impact this disaster would have on America. The drive at first was good but then we began to imagine how creep it was that there were NO airplanes flying in the skies! So quiet so peaceful.

When we arrived in Las Vegas we checked in our hotel. There we soon realized that many people were stranded, stuck, could not get a flight home. It was there I experienced just how kind people can be at a time of crisis. Sams Town (where we were staying) told their guest not to worry, they would be taken care of and would not be charged! It was a very special moment.. a moment where American’s had their chance to shine as this horrible situation began to become a reality. And shine America did. Most people were extending their hands, most people felt as though somehow they were also victims… it turned out we were.

I learned many lessons that week after 9/11. I learned how kind we can be as American’s and one push comes to shove we are all under the same roof, Red, Black, White, Brown, Purple… we are ALL Americans. We are all here in the land of the free. We are lucky to have our freedom. No one can EVER take that away, no one! so in closing I applaud America… a place where we (I) can speak my mind, say my peace and be free! Let’s not forget the most important thing about America… She is the Land of the Free… Don’t let others bully you into believing anything else, your voice (although not always what people want to hear) is important. Your vote is your vote… take advantage of it. In the world of Bob Marley “Get Up Stand Up… Stand Up For Your Rights!”

Peace and let’s not forget this day.

A HOT and I mean HOT Summer Day

2010-08-23T17:33:00.000-07:00

Well Summer has finally arrived here in Los Angeles and boy is it hot~

Worked this month with Gabriel Buenla on his “I Got Something To Say” interview show. Some great interviews with Father Greg Boyle from Homeboy Industries, Professor Rudy Acuña, our friends Ted Gottis and Javier Angulo from the LGBT communities talking a whole lotta Chisme! If you want to see more of the interviews please visit thenonprofitnetwork.org and click on "Videos"

Colombo's Jesse (center) and guest

Speaking of Chisme… Colombo’s Italian Steakhouse and Jazz Club’s 56^th Anniversary celebration was the happening Sunday nite. The music was nice and food was good and it was just nice to be in attendance with Linda Ferrell and Vic Parrino (although we didn’t physically see Vic) and the rest of the Colombo’s regulars. Well here’s to Colombo’s and may they be around another 56 years! Side note: Designed some awesome t-shirts and baseball caps for them, so when you make your next dinner date with Colombo’s check em out– they are for sale.

Linda and Ronn Savala

Crazy me and Linda

I have a new friend… Irene Diaz… she is soooooo talented. A niece of Ronn Savala friend Hortensia Lopez. I wanted to post this video of her… “Won’t You Stay” and original song.. it’s sooooo beautiful it puts a smile on my face. Look out world Ms. Diaz is on her way to being a star!!!!

Irene Diaz.... superstar!

Speaking of Hortensia, she had her ?? (won’t tell) birthday bash at our house Saturday the 21^st. It was a hot summer nite and her guest all had a good time. It’s always nice to make new friends. I made some good eats for the evening. A summer menu of various salads and a cold Avocado Soup to boot! Hope you had a fun time Hortensia!

"I don't want to drink anymore!!!"

Been working on the Italian American Museum people this week. The 2^nd Annual Taste of Italy is coming up this October 16^th, 2010. It’s their annual fundraiser to help in the completion of the Italian Hall. Mariann Gatto is working her buns off putting this gig together. Please visit their website at www.italianhall.org to purchase your tickets to this GREAT event. Lots of food and drink, you WON’T be disappointed and you can be part of history by putting history in place a the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles.

Don’t have anything political to talk about this time, although I do want to thank Liberty Mesa from Councilmen’s José Huizar’s office. She came through and took care of a mess we have had on the corner of Linda Rosa Ave. and Colorado. I know others were working on this but it’s nice to know that when you know someone that things will get done faster. And speaking of Liberty our x councilmen Nick Pacheco stopped by to say hi, the man is looking better than ever, I guess getting a break from politics is good for him!

Finally don’t forget the upcoming Hispanic American Heritage Month celebration September 15^th through October 15^th, visit www.diversitygraphics.com and see our posters, banners and postcards that will help you celebrate!

Colombo's Italian Steakhouse and Jazz Club 56th Anniversary!

2010-08-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this with you as Colombo's is an icon here in Eagle Rock and it has one of the best bar and bartender in all of Los Angeles! Your get your drink and it's a drink! The food is fantastic and owner Vic Parrino has put together some great talent for their Jazz concert series. So check out the menu, make your reservations and get your booties down to Colombo's this Sunday the 22nd and take advantage of the special prices!

Colombo's is located at 1833 Colorado Blvd., Eagle Rock, CA 90041
Telephone: (323) 254-9138
Reservations are recommended and tell them MANDOG sent ya!

The MANDOG is back! And a lot has happened....

2010-08-08T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well well well, where should start.
So many things have happened since I lasted updated my blog.


Cecila Mercado (pictured left) with Letty Lianoz and friend.

Ok lets start by tipping our hats to and Executive Gabriel Buenla for once again reaching out to the community and providing them with FREE clothing with another “A Trabajar” cloths give-a-way held in mid June. The hard working staff at Plaza also donated their Saturday to help distribute clothing and provide the community with information on the many services and programs they offer at Plaza. It was also my good friend Cecilia Mercado’s last event with Plaza as she has ventured on to a new and exciting Job! Cecilia has done a wonderful job at Plaza working on events and fundraisers and going beyond her call of duty! I am sure we will work with each other again. Congratulations Cecilia!


Ronn Savala a hard days work!

Me (Mark Martinez) LEGALLY doing day labor!

Ronn Savala (of ronnsavala.com hair and beauty products) and I spent a few weeks working on Valerie Provines beautiful home in Tehachapi (California). It’s great working on her home as it’s so peaceful and beautiful in this area of California. Very relaxing. We will soon venture back to work on some more projects. This last trip we built a deck and finished up some odds and ends inside her home. On our many adventures to Tehachapi we exit Ave. I where we pass a antique store that looks interesting but it was always closed (they open at 11:00 a.m.) so we finally were driving past it during business hours and boy what a treat! The joint name is “ANTIQUES AT THE BARN” and a barn it is!!!! The location is 6851 W. Ave. I, Lancaster, CA. They have everything under the sun, so if you stop by make sure you give yourself enough time. Some stuff is strange but most is interesting and a Antique lovers delight!

The ANTIQUES AT THE BARN store located in Lancaster, California

Stuff..... and...

more stuff!

Next subject “Meg Whitman”. The more I see her (and her lying commercials) the more I see her strange resemblance to Ben Franklin… I guess she is so emerged in the all mighty dollar that she decided to look like it! If only she would spend a little of those millions that she spends on her ads with a hair and makeup artist, I am sure the girl can at least look like Ma’ Kettle! You go spend your money Meg… we will see if that buys your way into Sacramento come election day. As for Jerry… you got my vote!

Speaking of money…. If you guys haven’t visited Buena Vista Furniture’s new location in Orange I suggest you do. It is similar to the El Serreno story but the layout is a bit nicer. Ronn Savala and I dropped by on afternoon to finally check out the joint. Ruthie showed us around and I was very impressed with all the hard work her and Joesph put into the store, so I suggest you all drive down and give them a visit in Orange and spend some of your hard earn cash on some fabulous and ever changing inventory Buena Vista Furniture has to offer!

Host Hortensia Lopez

On July 31^st, we along with our friend Hortensia hosted a party for her nephew Manuel Diaz who has located to Texas as he now attending Texas A&M… we meet some really great people that nite and believe everyone had a good time, well I think they did as some did not leave until 3:30 a.m.!!!! My childhood friend Derek Kluft was one of the guest, it was nice seeing him although he spent most of the evening chatting with our friend Manuela, well I don’t blame him as Manuela is a very beautiful woman! Manny, you friends were a lot of fun and we hope we get to connect with them again! Congratulations Mr. Diaz and remember what they say about Texas… “Texas where men are men and sheep are scared!”

Mr. Ronn Savala and Guest of Honor Manuel Diaz

This week I am working on a new project with my good friend Gabriel Buelna. It’s a interview show airing VERY soon on YouTube “I have something to say” where he interviews various figures from the community. “I have something to say” is part of the NonProfitNetwork. The NonProfitNetwork is a website where people of the Non Profit world can post jobs, post resumes, blogs and get a whole lot of important information. Gabriel’s first guest were Fr. Gregory Boyle, Professor and Historian Rudy Acuna, Ted Gottis, and Javier Angulo… great interviews and interesting responses so stay tune, as soon as they videos are up we will let you know.


Gabriel Buelna and Fr. Greogry Boyle

Gabriel Buelna with Historian and Professor Rudy Acuna

Gabriel Buelna and Ted Gottis

Gabriel Buelna and Javier Angulo

Finally (I mean that) please visit DiversityGraphics.com and check out our new banners and new National Hispanic Heritage Month Poster. It's more important now than ever to celebrate Diversity and to show others that you support Diversity!

Until we chisme again… if you can’t be bad, be good!!!

Arizona rally against SB1070... May Day 2010

2010-05-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

I woke up on Friday April 30^th and felt a little festive knowing that the following week was Cinco de Mayo and there would be some great celebrations to attend or great Mexican Food to be served at someone’s home… but I also felt an urgent need to get involved, so I decided to attend the May 1^st rally downtown Los Angeles to show my support for the thousands of immigrants here both legally and illegally that would be subject to racial profiling with the passing of Arizona SB1070. Now I am not stating that I am in favor for others that come here illegally from Canada or China undocumented and stay longer than their visas allow them to as I believe everyone wanting to become a US Citizen should do so by the rules, so either you come from a rich and powerful family which allows you to buy your citizenship or you pay someone to marry you who you don’t really know and have to memorize EVERYTHING about that person including what doors he puts his/hers chonies in and what their favorite food is.

What is the legal way? Has anyone ever done a documentary on the process it takes to become a LEGAL US CITIZEN? Are there handbooks that out line the process? I remember those educational books we first read when we were just wee radicals once upon a time… “See Spot Run… Run Spot Run”. I am beginning to understand why Spot was running… Poor Perro didn’t have his papers! As my grandmother Armida Acosta would say “Ayi Dios mio”.

I once had a friend who insisted that I was Anglo as I was born in the United States of America. “I am Mexican/American,” I proudly would say. “No you were born here so you are American”… my come back, “well I was born in the United States so shouldn’t I be a United Statistician?” I quickly explained (the best way I could) by using the old dog theory…. “If you were a French Poodle and were bred to another French Poodle and the bitch gave birth in El Monte…. Are you a French Poodle or a American El Monte Poodle?” I think he understood. We are all from somewhere was my point. Different backgrounds, different countries, different cultures. Our blood is made up of many others from different parts of the world. I am American, I am a United States Citizen, I am also XICANO and Mexican American… that is my blood, I can’t change that, but first and foremost I am a proud United States Citizen.

What makes me proud is that I live in a country where I have the right to freedom of speech (well at least some). But with freedom comes respect, we must respect the other person and realize that we are not always going to agree with them. Disagreement is OK, not accepting other views is OK but trying to push your values or them trying to push theirs upon you is not acceptable. Many people, many opinions that is what makes the world go round. So I respect my freedom and those of others. I chose to support my fellow brothers and sisters on May 1^st. No one should live in fear, no one should be stopped because they don’t look like you or talk like you.

A newsflash to those who support this kind of hate, it’s the terrorist and crazies we should be concerned with, not the many that clean up our tables, clean our homes, cut our lawns, pick our fruit, nanny our children, work in our kitchens… these people are important to the many businesses that we patronize everyday. They are not thieves, drug addicts nor the criminals that angry Americans paint them to be. They are hard working people. And if a recession causes those who are out of work to become angry and blame the illegal for taking jobs, well I suggest you walk your sorry self down to McDonalds and put in your application, or better yet but on your $150.00 designer jeans and take a bus up to farm land and help pick what is going to be on your dinner table that night. No one wants those jobs, but these people are doing just that.

Women, Women, and oh yah Women!

2010-03-19T15:34:00.000-07:00

Oh my, I often reflex back on this picture when I am having a hard time creating. For those of you too young to remember what a production room looked like in the days before MACs and PCs…. Well here you are! Days and nights of typesetting, waxing, paste up; rub down type, sizing photographs’ for veloxs or color separations. I can’t believe we were able to put out a monthly magazine with all the things we had to do (by hand) before it went to print. No access to spell check, once you made the mistake it had to be re-typed then cut-in to replace the misspelling or correction (God forbid some crazed out editor went crazy on editing!)

We also do not have the luxury of Photoshop or Illustrator. We had to use air brushers to take out or alter backgrounds and clean up faces. Taking tracing paper to lay over the photograph then penciling or drawing what you wanted as the end result and pray it came out to your liking. Most air brushers were true artists so most of the time what you wanted came just the way you wanted it. I think air brushers had their heyday in the Disco era… remember all those crazy airbrushed Disco LP covers? Now that was art!

From this photograph you can also tell the era in which it was photographed…. Early 1980’s! Look at our Ms. Joan Jett jumping high up in the air rocking away, and that famous B-52 LP Whammy! Oh yes what a mess the production room was at the end of a deadline.

JENNY LENS

Talked to my friend Jenny Lens (jennylens.com) today, I must admit she is the ONLY person I will stay on the phone with for more than 30 secs! Only will good Chisme keep me on longer and Jenny often has some juicy stories. It’s nice to see that though many years of shooting almost everyone in Punk, that others are now enjoying looking back at punk history. I hope one day Ms. “Girl with the Camera Eye” does a follow up to Punk Pioneers. There are so many other photos she took besides punk. I told Jenny how strange it is these days to have movies and premiers of people we hung with or knew. All the fun seems to be missing from these events. Heck, if the Runaways movie had premiered in the days, not only would you have had the remaining group play, but all the important people from that era would have been invited (famous or not) and been rockin-it-up with them! Remember the Ramones party at the Santa Monica Pier?

Maybe I will write a book, but I would (of course) have to change the names to protect the guilty!

JOSEFINA LOPEZ

Speaking of guilty, it’s National Womens' History Month (March) and I want to apologize to all the females in my life that I might have offended in someway through my life. Even though I am Gay, I must remember to at all times respect the Women of the world. This though was brought upon from an email I got today from my friend Josefina Lopez (it’s her b- day this weekend!) And she sent me this lovely quote:

"I too have a dream that one day women will be judged by the content of their character, their creative and intellectual contributions to society, rather than by the color of their hair, the size of their waist or the perkiness of their breasts."

Josefina Lopez

If you never been to one of her numerous events she puts on over at Casa0101, I suggested your check out their schedule of plays and events, visit Casa0101.org, treat yourself to some of Los Angeles best plays put on by some pretty amazing and talented people.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PLEASANT!!!!

A BIG BIG BIG Feliz Cumpleaños (Happy Birthday) to my dear friend Pleasant Gehman…. Another talented and amazing women who should be celebrated this month of March! Actress, recording super star, punk pioneer, and well, I can’t really mention all without her permission… but one swell gal.

NATIONAL ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH - MAY

And let’s not forget the upcoming National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which is May. You can go to Diversity Graphics and order your posters to help celebrate [AP10].

Ok that’s it for now, more later, it’s gonna be along week so I should have lots of Chisme!

Mandog

New Facebook Group and Mas!

2010-02-16T19:16:00.000-08:00

THE STAR~ Pleasant Gehman with Ronn Savala

OK, I decided that I am going to move forward and take my good friend/adopted sister Jenny Len’s advice and tell the world my stories and accomplishments and get my brown bootie in gear!

I created a group on Facebook entitled “STARVING ARTIST/CHISME”. The focus of this group is to promote myself as well as fellow artist (in any creative form… even from beyond the after life if the is such : )~

The idea is to let our friends, family members, lovers, partners, husbands, wives, ex-loves, ex-partners, ex-husbands, ex-wives…(you get the point) and the world what we are doing and how we can help each other. I am blessed to be surrounded by so many gifted and talented people. I can honestly say my life has been better than any trip to Disneyland! With sooooo many crazy and wild experiences in my life I know that these have shaped me into the person I am today. Creative, fun and really, really, really loving every minute of my life... well except when UCLA loses in football and basketball.

So I will be faithful to this venture and hope that people are reading it and will participate in the great fun and interesting things we can find out about each other. I always wanted to write a book so I guess this would prep me for that part of my future.

Here are a few pictures from my long time friend Pleasant Gehman’s movie screening of “STUCK” on February 3^rd, 2010. It was an honor to be with such fun people! Karen Black, Jane Wieland… to name a few (I wonder if Jane would remember me if I walked up to her that nite).

The gang as we wait for the Gold Line before the big screening ... Ronn Savala, Jonnie Carrillo (the up and coming hair stylist to the stars), and the well educated James Szabo... what a mug!

Jonnie Carrillo, ME (Mark A. Martinez) and Mr. James Szabo in the mug shot line!

Won't you be afraid to run into this characters at your local Costco?

Ok next on the CHISME will be more about ME!!!!! Don’t you just want to know!

Write more soon! And you write too!

2010-01-21T18:44:00.000-08:00

Chh, chh, chh, CHERRY BOMB!

Boy does that bring back memories. “The Runaways” soon to be shown at the Sundance Film Festival… back then who would have known! It seems like yesterday I was running home from school (I was 17 then), jump in the shower and get all dolled up for a trip to the Sugar Shack to dance my ass off. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights- as many nights as we could go. It was the only place I could dance and be myself with other creatures and strange fellows like myself.

Attitude dancing, that’s what I called it. You had to have the right attitude when dancing to the song playing. Bowie, Suzie Quatro, Rocky Horror– the Runaways you name it these songs had a style that you danced with. That’s what made it fun. If you EVER wanted to be a singer/actor, these were the groups that made you strut your stuff too and make sure EVERYONE knew you were someone special! As you paid your $3 dollars to get in you then proceeded to the left to see what Sid was up to as he checked your coat (if you were warning one) then to the right to see what mood Danny the bartender was in (he could be such a queen!). If Danny had too much bitch in him you would pay no attention, as Vicki was always smiling and ready to tell you what was going on that night.

I think many times when I tell these stories of the people we hung with (or knew) that people think I lie or I'm crazy. We did so much as teenagers. We were fortunate to grow up just 15 minutes from Hollywood. Hollywood… I think it lost its shinny star after the 80’s and the MTV generation. Kids back then didn’t have video games or cell phones to get our kicks. We had FRIENDS and adventures. Friends and adventures that would take us on a roller coaster ride for many years. New music, new art and new experiences.

I certainly hope the Runaways movies are more to truth than the Germs movie (What we do is secret) was. I often see high school kids wearing a germs shirt. Every now and then I pull up my sleeve and turn over my wrist and show them my Germ Burn, they know what it is which always surprises me. I guess that burn is in someway a mark that will forever have a story to tell of friends we once knew and hung with.

Currie Currie, Sandy West, Lita Ford, Jackie Fox, Vicki Blue (she counts too as she played bass I believe the longest and was in the band longer than Cherie) and Joan Jett… I hope the story is strong and truth, no sugar coating. For God’s sake at least wear Chemin der Fers!

Finally, I now have nieces that are of the age when we ruled the streets of Hollywood. It always puts a smile on my face when they want to hear the Runaways, X, Germs, Weirdo’s, Iggy… there is no generation gap here. Music is an important part of our lives. From my mother dancing to the Stones in the early 60’s, my chola cousin strutting to Motown in the mid 60’s, to me dancing to disco and punk… to my nieces dancing and playing guitars in the 2000’s, music is part of us. It good when my friend’s children are playing an instrument. My friends Oralia and Jamie Jimenez have a very talented son Kyle. Kyle played his sax for us the other night, very nice but all I could picture him doing was taking that sax and blowing away with some crazy Avanade Garde group… “like crazy man!”.

P.S. If you want to see some GREAT photos of Punk and the Runaways then visit JennyLens.com!

And P.S.S. Visit RonnSavala.com and order your product.. don't you want to look your best?

Mandog!

Pictured from top to bottom:'
JOAN JETT and ME (picture by Jenny Lens)

STEPHINE SERRANO (my niece) ROSA RAMIREZ (my sister) & BETO (my brother-in-law)

NINA GONZALEZ (my niece)

ALICE MARTINEZ (my sister)

Happy 2010 to all... Now let's CELEBRATE!

2010-01-06T18:44:00.000-08:00

2009 for many of us was not the outbreak year we needed in these tuff economic times. But we must all keep our heads up high, stand together and help one another and together we will make 2010 a banner year. I am thankful for all the GREAT friends that pulled us through 2009, your friendship and belief in my work are appreciated more than you will ever realize.

I want to plug my Diversity Graphics store for the next few weeks as there are many important celebrations in the coming months starting with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day which is January 18th. We have a new poster [MLKP09] as well as new buttons and bookmarks to help celebrate a great man, leader and visionary... the steps he laid are still well traveled. His dream was finally a reality when history was made during the 2008 Presidential election. Not only did we elect our first Black American as President in Barack Obama but we also showed that women now are important players future Presidential races as Hillary Rodham Clinton got millions of Americans out to the voters booths.

February 2010 is National Black History Month. This year’s theme is “The History of Black Economic Empowerment” and our poster ask the question “Who is an Economic Leader?” The answer is people who make choices that lead to changes in the kinds of opportunities people have. With so many important figures in Black history we listed a few both past and present and know that many more names will be added to this list as Black Americans continue to make decisions and changes that will effect the multiple cultural landscape that make America. This poster is also available from Diversity Graphics [BP10].

March 2010 is National Women’s History Month and 2010 marks the 30^th Anniversary of women being recognized for their achievements and impact both past and present. This years theme is "Writing Women Back into History." This poster [WP10] gives a brief history of some important figures that help write history in the 30 years this celebration. Visit Diversity Graphics to order yours.

Finally we hope you pass this information to your friends and business associates. The importance in showing our support for the people that have made a change in world is more important then ever. The need for cultural diversity is an ongoing lesson. By displaying your support is the first step in understanding the many backgrounds that make up our home, the United States of America.

Costa Rica... A trip of a trip

2009-12-02T20:40:00.000-08:00

It’s day 9 of our 15-day adventure to Costa Rica. I must say so far the first part was pretty much the most fun. We started our vacation by realizing the Ronn’s passport was under his DBA name and not this birth name…. I realized that the day before we were leaving and then ALL of us realized that we were leaving on MONDAY morning at 12:40 a.m. NOT Monday! Sounds crazy, well we thought we were leaving on Monday and then realized it was Sunday nite forgetting that the day changes after midnite! Boy what a start. We landed in San Jose (that was an adventure within itself!). At first they were not going to let Ronn in Costa Rica as they said he had no return ticket back. That was not true and thanks the powers that be I had the itinerary to prove he did. So we got passed that. We then too a taxi to the bus stop in downtown San Jose to purchase a bus ticket to Monteverdi (that cost us a whole $5.00 bucks each). The bus did not leave until 2:30 p.m. and it was about 10:00 a.m. so we decided to talk a walk down beautiful San Jose. Well much to my surprise the part that we were walking down was a little shabby and much like being on skid row. But once we found the center of town it was pretty nice. We found a little place to have a bit to eat and a beer. We then ventured back to where our bus was to take off.

At first the thought that we saved so much money taking the local bus up to Monteverde was the bargain of the century… how cheap! But as the bus headed outside of San Jose the roads became more rural and a lot rougher! Along with way the bus driver would stop every now and then a pick up someone that was selling food or drinks then let them off a few stops down. As we got more into the country part of the trip the stops were less and the roads narrower. Then it got dark and pretty intense as the winding road to Monteverde barely enough room for the big bus let alone the cars coming from opposite direction to pass. Well 6 hours later came rolling into town. When the bus stopped and let us off and local was there offering $10.00 a nite hotel stays! We were all tired and at first the idea sounded good but then our heads where placed back on us and we decided to check it out first. It was a Hostel and actually VERY nice! The name of this place is “The Tucan” and for $10.00 each we got a huge room with 4 beds and the restroom right next to it. After putting our stuff in the room we went to eat dinner at a very nice joint called “The Tree House” where the is an actual tree growing out of the place! The food was very nice and inexpensive. Soon we were settled for the nite and happy to lay our heads down on a nice soft bed.

The next morning we took a walk (which is not far as the town is pretty small) and decided to spend one more nite so we can take the canopy walk which was $25.00 each (that included the ride up to the site). I wished we had done the zip line but next time. The canopy walk was very nice and the sites were so amazing. If you do this you will get wet and it will rain so come prepared!

We soon headed back to our bargain hostel were we met some really fun people. I don’t remember all their names but Ziggy (nice German girl) and Mark E. Russell (nice British chap) I do remember. Ziggy and her girl friend (both in their early 20’s) were finishing up a school project, which they were traveling for 6 months through South America. Mark had just sold his home and decided to see the world with his earnings…. A brave man and I tip my hat off to him. There was a young man from Israel who also was traveling through Costa Rica. We all shared a beer or two and since I had my wonderful laptop I showed the German girls some HEDWIG from you tube… I don’t know if they got it but I tried to explain it to them the best I could.

So day three and we are off to our next venture…. The Arenal Volcano. The guys at the Tucan gave us a package deal for that part of the trip. For $89.00 you got the jeep-boat-jeep deal! Which is a ride to the lake, a boat trip across the lake and then a jeep ride to La Fortuna (the jeep is actually a shuttle van) and to top it off this included the hotel for the nite AND a day at the hot springs and a volcano hike!!!! This took about 3 hours.

When we got to the hotel Cabina Las Palmas, we were amazed that the hotel was actually new had a nice big room with a private bathroom. Our host at the hotel was also our tour guide for the rest of the day. He gave us the option of going at 1:00 p.m. to the hot springs then at 3:00 they would pick us up and take us to the volcano walk and then back to the springs… OR leave at 3:00 to the volcano then to the springs where we would stay for about 4 hours and that included dinner! Well of course we choose the latter.

We met some really nice couple at the Cabinas Las Palmas, Henning and Marthe, two Bulgarians backpacking it through Costa Rica for the Holiday. We had a most enjoyable time with them as they were on our same tour for this part of our trip. The volcano hike was great. It was very humid and wet but still very nice. We hiked down to a waterfall. Along with way our tour guide explained many things about the nature here and what kinda wild life was in this part of the rain forest. He also showed us craters where the past eruptions had thrown large parts of earth to the ground thus leaving its mark forever in the ground below.

As we finished are hike to the waterfall we stopped at the volcano observatory to rest and kicked back to view the Arenal volcano itself hoping to see some lava flow (as it is still active) but nothing… less the moon rising was beautiful. We then headed to the springs for a long evening of some good food and lots of soaking in hot water!

Once inside the springs we found there was all kinds of unusual pools to try and even some pretty crazy sides. I went down the 2^nd scariest, it was a long twisted tunnel of pouring water that shoots you out on the other end like a flying rocket! I then thought that since that was not so hard to try the not so hard one (which was just a slide without the enclosure) that was a mistake! I was doing fine until the last drop…. It spit you out into the water but what I was not aware of was the force of the entry into the water, I had my arms spread and because of that it when I hit the water, it felt like my arms were being torn off!!!!!! It still hurts this being the 9^th day!

More soon I am tired and ready to hit the hay!

Life in the FAST LANE! Catching up!

2009-11-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

Well it’s been awhile (AGAIN!) but here I am ready to post some new and exciting stuff for all you cyber groupies!

There have been several events in which Ronn and I had attended, most recently Plaza Community Services annual fundraiser this year once again at Union Station, Los Angeles, CA. This years honorees were Monica Garcia, President Los Angeles School Board and Frank J. Quevedo, retired VP Equal Opportunity, Southern California Edison. Cecilia Mercado once again did a FANTASTIC job coordinating the event (with the always watchful eye of Gabriel Buelna) and her hard work showed as the event was a success! It was nice go see my very best GIRL friend, Celina Meza and her handsome husband Lucio that nite, we just don’t get to see enough of those two. This evening also was my first attempt at putting together a video where I NARRATED… I guess my funny voice isn’t that bad! Please visit plazacs.org and make a donation to a wonderful organization!

The gang having a great time!

The table settings were fabuloso!

Mr. Ronn Savala and our friends Diane and Henry Yuen

Buena Vista Furniture's Ruthie & Joseph Torre... aren't they a handssome couple!

Ms. Monica Garcia and friends

Piliar Buelna and Xavier having a good time!

Some other friends we don't get to see enough of... Willie and Rosanna Perez-Trivino and mama

ITALIAN HALL FOUNDATION

Ronn and I went up to Sacramento to take down/pack up the exhibit for the Italian Hall Foundation, which is scheduled to be displayed in San Pedro, CA during the month of December. It’s a great bit of Italian American history so as soon as I get the official info I will post and alert all! And once again if you’d like to make a contribution to another great organization please visit ItalianHall.org

PROYECTO PASTORAL

Proyecto Pastoral is doing this a little differently this year with their fundraiser… it’s a luncheon! Fatima A. Djelmane and the gang over at Proyecto promise it will be nice afternoon with special guest Fr. Gregory Boyle! Visit Proyecto for more info.

2010 NATIONAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH - FEBRUARY

We have new posters up at Diversity Graphics for 2010. The theme for National Black History Month 2010 is "The History of Black Economic Empowerment". The question: Who is an Economic leader? A person who makes choices that lead to changes in the kinds of opportunities people have. Our poster was designed to list a few of the many Black Americans who have changed economics through leadership, invention, performance, and many other forms... bringing change and opportunities to all Americans. To name a few: PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SHIRLEY ANITA ST. HILL CHISHOLM, ROSA PARKS, PRINCE, FRANCES ELLEN WATKINS HARPER, ERWIN MAGIC JOHNSON, GENERAL COLIN POWELL, JACKIE ROBINSON, LENA HORNE, REV. JESSIE JACKSON, OPRAH WINFREY, ELIZABETH “BESSIE” COLEMAN, ROBERT L. JOHNSON, GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER, MADAM C.J. WALKER, DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., SOROR CORETTA SCOTT KING, MAYA ANGELOU, ELLA FITZGERALD, VENUS AND SERENA WILLIAMS, MICHAEL JORDAN, BILLIE HOLIDAY, RUSSELL SIMMONS, JOHN JOHNSON, JOSEPINE BAKER, BERRY GORDY, JR., FREDERICK DOUGLASS, MUHAMMAD ALI, TIGER WOODS, MARIAN ANDERSON, WILLIAM EDWARD DUBOIS, SIDNEY POITER, DANIEL “CHAPPIE” JAMES, JR., MICHAEL JACKSON, EDUCATORS, PARENTS, AND THE LIST GOES ON…

2010 National Black History Month Poster

2010 NATIONAL WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH - MARCH

2010 marks the 30th Anniversary of Women’s History Month. The theme for this historic celebration is “Writing Women Back into History”. Not that they ever left but we want to recognize many who left their impact in the last 30 years.

Here is our historical list:
1980: President Jimmy Carter issued a Presidential Message to the American people, encouraging the recognition and celebration of women’s historic accomplishments during the week of March 8th, Women’s History Week • New guidelines from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission prohibit sexual harassment. 1981: Sandra Day O’Connor is named the first woman justice of the Supreme Court • Los Angeles based all girl band the “Go-Go’s” became the first girl band that played their instruments to have a Number 1 Record. 1982: Only three states short of ratification, the ERA expires. 1983: Sally Ride becomes the first U.S. woman in space. • The Color Purple, a novel by Alice Walker published in 1982, won the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize, making Alice Walker the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for fiction • Toni Morrison became the first African American winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. 1984: Geraldine Ferraro becomes the first woman nominated by a major political party to run for vice president of the United States. • Leontine T. C. Kelly became the first woman bishop of any major American religious denomination, the United Methodist Church • Vanessa Williams became first African American selected as Miss America; when she resigned after a scandal, Suzette Charles, Miss New Jersey, became the second African American Miss America. 1986: The space shuttle Challenger explodes, killing seven crew members including teacher Christa McAuliffe • Willie B. Barrow became President of Operation PUSH • Ella Baker died (civil rights activist). 1987: Carrie Saxon Perry, elected mayor of Hartford, Connecticut, becoming the first African American woman mayor of a large American city. 1988: Florence Griffith Joyner sets a world record in the 200-meter sprint at the Olympics. 1989: Oprah Winfrey, first African American woman to host a nationally-syndicated talk show, founded Harpo Productions to produce television shows and movies • (January 29) Barbara Harris elected first woman bishop of the Episcopal Church. 1990: Sharon Pratt Kelly elected mayor of Washington, DC, the first African American mayor of a major American city • Roselyn Payne Epps became the first woman president of the American Medical Association • Debbye Turner became third African American Miss America • Sarah Vaughan died (singer). 1991: The U.S. Department of Labor establishes the Glass Ceiling Commission to eliminate the barriers that block qualified women from advancements in the workplace • Clarence Thomas nominated for a seat on the US Supreme Court; Anita Hill, who had worked for Thomas in the federal government, testified about repeated sexual harassment, bringing the issue of sexual harassment to public attention (Thomas was confirmed as Justice) • Marjorie Vincent became fourth African American Miss America. 1992: The 1992 election doubles the percentage of women in Congress; as a result, 1992 is dubbed the Year of the Woman • (August 3) Jackie Joyner-Kersee became the first woman to win two Olympic heptathlons • (September 12) Mae Jemison, astronaut, became the first African American woman in space • (November 3) Carol Moseley Braun elected to the US Senate, the first African American woman to hold that office. 1993: Young girls are introduced to the workplace as the Ms. Foundation for Women launches its first annual Take Our Daughters to Work Day • The Vietnam Women’s Memorial is erected in Washington, D.C. • Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Attorney General Janet Reno are appointed • Rita Dove became the first African American poet laureate • (September 7) Joycelyn Elders became the first African American and first woman US Surgeon General. 1994: The Violence Against Women Act is passed to combat gender-based violent crimes • Kimberly Aiken became fifth African American Miss America. 1995: (June 12) Supreme Court, in Adarand v. Pena, called for “strict scrutiny” before establishing any federal affirmative action requirements • Ruth J. Simmons installed as president of Smith College in 1995. becoming the first African American president of one of the “Seven Sisters”. 1997: Madeleine Albright is confirmed as the first woman U.S. secretary of state. • U.S. Army General Claudia Kennedy becomes the first woman three-star general. • The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) debuts. • (June 23) Betty Shabazz, widow of Malcolm X, died of burns sustained in a June 1 fire in her home. 1998: • DNA evidence was used to test the theory that Thomas Jefferson fathered the children of his slave, Sally Hemings -- most concluded that the DNA and other evidence confirmed the theory. • (September 21) track and field great Florence Griffith Joyner died (athlete; first African American to win four medals in one Olympics; sister-in-law of Jackie Joyner-Kersee). 2000: (July) Venus Williams became the first African American to win the women’s title at Wimbledon since Althea Gibson (1957-58) • Condoleezza Rice named as the next Secretary of State, the first African American woman to hold that position 2001: • Arkansas named a state holiday for Daisy Bates, the first state to name a holiday for an African American woman • Ruth Simmons, Brown University, became the first African American president of an Ivy League university. 2002: (March 24) Halle Berry became the first African American to win the Best Actress Oscar • (May 22) Bobby Frank Cherry found guilty of murder in the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham which killed four African American girls, ages 11-14. 2003: (January) bus, made famous by Rosa Parks’s refusal to give up her seat, added to exhibit at Henry Ford Museum, Michigan • (June 23) Supreme Court upheld affirmative action used in university admissions • (September) Carol Moseley Braun announced her candidacy for US president, the second African American woman to run for that office. 2004: (January 14) Carol Moseley Braun dropped her race for the US presidency. 2008: Sarah Palin Makes History as First Female Vice Presidential Nominee of Republican Party • Millions of Americans have voted for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton for President of the United States...more than for any other woman primary candidate in history. 2009: Senate Votes 68 to 31 to Confirm Sonia Sotomayor to Supreme Court making her the first Latina/Latino to serve on the US Supreme Court.

2010 National Women's History Month Poster

Well that's it for now, I guess it was a eye full!

Peace to everyone.

Congratulations to our Rachel Braver of GLAD!

2009-11-08T15:54:00.000-08:00

Council District 14 resident/businesswoman received honor at Women in Business Awards luncheon- Oct. 2nd

GLAD’s Director of Public Relations received the prestigious Outstanding Non-Profit Employee Award

Los Angeles, October 9, 2009: Rachel Braver, Director of Public Relations for the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. more commonly known as GLAD, received the prestigious Outstanding Non Profit Employee Award appointed by the California State Legislator last week at the Women in Business Awards luncheon. State Senator Carol Liu (D-La Cañada Flintridge), Assemblymember Paul Krekorian (D-Burbank) and Assemblymember Anthony Portantino (D-La Cañada Flintridge) honored Braver and 24 other exceptional businesswomen at the 10th Annual Women in Business Legislative Update and Awards Luncheon on Oct. 2, 2009, at the Pasadena Hilton.

Braver is committed to ensuring equal access of the deaf and hard of hearing community to the same opportunities afforded their hearing counterparts. With purpose directed around the social, recreational, cultural, educational, and vocational well-being of GLAD’s deaf and hard of hearing consumers, Braver handles public affairs, donor relations, promotions and marketing for this social service agency. (www.gladinc.org) She oversees the implementation of booths, exhibits, community events and fundraisers; provides sensitivity trainings, produces agency-wide printed materials with a universal positive image and serves as a community liaison with community leaders, corporate sponsors, organizations and media representatives. Her bold efforts continue to bridge the gap between deaf and hearing worlds.

A certified sign language interpreter by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD IV), her professional/personal affiliations include: Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), Southern California chapter (SCRID), Perinatal Foundation for the Deaf (www.perinatalfoundationdeaf.org), and Sign World TV (www.signworldtv.com). She is actively involved in the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce, Jewish Big Brother/Big Sisters program and Center for the Arts Eagle Rock. Braver and childhood friend are developing an affirmation t-shirt line for women who desire to inspire (www.thebeewear.com). Braver enjoys singing duets with dad, shopping for greeting cards with mom, participating in walk-a-thons for various causes close to her heart, traveling the world and salsa dancing the night away.

Each year, the Women in Business Awards recognize businesswomen who have contributed to the economic growth and well-being of Southern California. These women exemplify the broad range of accomplishments that women have achieved in our communities. Braver extends warm thanks to Renee Dominique (Center for the Arts), Jim Omahen (Councilmember Jose Huizar’s District Office), Linda Allen (ERCPR), Denise Miller (Glendale Adventist Medical Center) and Mark Martinez (Diversity Graphics) for nominating her for this honor.

The Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (www.gladinc.org) has been improving the lives of the deaf and hard of hearing since its establishment as a volunteer organization in 1969. Founded on the philosophy…”of, by, for and with the deaf and hard of hearing”, GLAD’s Deaf Community Center encompasses a wide array of specialized health and human service programs for the deaf and hard of hearing community.

Photo credit- Richshell Allen (Braver w/ parents, ILY photo and Rachel B.)

A peaceful Sunday

2009-08-23T17:51:00.000-07:00

Well it's Sunday. Had a pretty good weekend. Started Friday nite.

Friday evening we had the honoring of having Heidi Galli, Shelia, Karla, Danny and his wife over for dinner here in Eagle Rock. These friends go way back. I met them in 1976 before summer as I was still in High School when I first started going to the Sugar Shack (a teenage night club in North Hollywood, CA). You had to be fewer than 21 to get in, but of course there were those perverts that looked younger than they were. I didn’t realize this until I was much older. Older pervs, Guys who preyed on young meat and flesh. I think I was a bit odd for them, as they never bothered me. I think at that time they were chicken hawken’ for young blonde boys with blue eyes. I remember my friend John Besselo (I think that is how you spell his name) telling me as were painting a backdrop for a high school play in the auditorium…. “My mother tells me older men want to @uck me cause I am blonde and blue eyed and they like that.” I had a crush on him but didn’t tell him I did, I just smiled and told him he wasn’t pretty enough and they wanted pretty things no a challenge!

The weekends couldn’t come fast enough. We spent most of the week preparing our attitude for fun at the Shack. Sometimes we would go on a Wednesday as it was the third most popular day to go (Friday and Saturday of course being the first and second). If I didn’t get a ride from a friend, I would hitch hike which at that time mostly safe (except if you had blonde hair and blue eyes). The hard part was getting back home. At 2:00 in the morning your rides (if not your friends) were most likely going to be an old horny man or wasted hippies. I preferred the hippies… at least I knew I didn’t have to have sex with them!~

There were several clicks at the Shack. The Valley kids (mostly from rich families and simi adventurous), the Beverly Hills kids (rich, bored and had lots of connections for drugs), and then the Beach kids (really bored, hated their parents and found the rest of us entertaining). I danced on American Bandstand and the Real Don Steele Show from 1973 – 1977 so most of the crowd I had encountered there. The first time I saw (I say saw as I didn’t actually meet him until later) Chuckee Starr was at a taping of the Real Don Steele Show. I think the New York Dolls were taping their appearance when down the alley that was next to the Studio on the KHJ-lots, comes this he/she of a person with at least 6” platforms, blue jeans cut into hot pants with fridge hanging from them, tube top and a banner wrapped around him like a beauty queen winner that stated “SWEET”. Needless to say I thought I saw it all then!

Later at a tapping of American Bandstand I was introduced to the word BI…. “Buy? What am I supposed to buy?” That was my response to question a pretty young guy asked me between tapings “Are you BI?” I had no idea what the hell that meant until he then explains the meaning. I then was more confused as I always thought you either like boys or girls not both! I sense have learned to accept all.

Back to the Shack and our little reunion with some friends. It was a nice to see old friends. Catching up is always great for conversation. What we have done, what we should have done, talking about all the crazy things we did… then looking each other and wondering why we are still alive!

OK, well more later, my life has many roads. I decided to let you in on some of them, so enjoy.

It's been a long time but I am back!

2009-08-19T10:17:00.000-07:00

I have been working pretty hard the last several months to try and get my Diversity company up and running. Also been working on helping my better half’s projects by updating and trying to keep up with all that needs to be done.

They way the economy has been, I am blessed that the few clients I have been able to keep my head above the water. I am 51 years old and well, at this stage of the game I am hoping all those years of doing what I do will pay off and I won’t have to get a job a K-Mart or Taco Bell when I am 60!

I am writing to basically get my steam off today. I find in strange in a time when people are trying to get work and trying to find jobs that there are some that seem to take advantage of the fact that they have a roof over their head and that times have been good for them (for the most part) but yet they are complaining about the lack of money coming in but when you give them work they slack off or just do care. There I got that off my chest.

I wish all my friends and family that are going through tuff times right now the best and hope that things pick up. Ronn and I are truly blessed to have great friends and great family. We do what we can to help and if other do the same, we all can get through this.

Facebook has kept me pretty busy with catching up with old friends. It (for the most part) has been a great journey. I have truly enjoyed reconnecting with most and connecting with new. Boy it’s scary to see how some of us look after not seeing each other for over 30 years! When I wake up I feel 17… when I look in the mirror I look 45, when I lay down to go to bed I feel 100! : )~ I guess my life after high school was pretty much an adventure. I haven’t talk to most of my childhood friends for those 30 plus more years of not seeing them. So catching up on one’s life is great reading and conversation. All those crazy times I had in the late 70’s and early 80’s. I often stop and take a deep breath and thank the powers that be that I am still on this earth. So many of things I did or situations I was in… It’s a wonder that I am still standing. I guess I was supposed to so I could blog/write about it.

Going to be working at the GLAD annual "Taste of Eagle Rock" this Saturday, August 22nd at GLAD. The Great Los Angeles Agency on Deafness is a wonderful non profit that is helping our Deaf and Hard of Hearing community members. Rachel Braver once again is doing a fantastic job (as well as hard working) preparing for this event. both Ronn Savala and I are very proud of our little Braver!

So that leads me into what all that stuff above I am yapping about. I will use this blog more often to express myself and to tell a story or two. If your listening enjoy.

mandog

CELEBRATE!

2008-05-25T17:51:00.000-07:00

The fabulous RACHEL BRAVER, hats off the our Ms. Braver for another outstanding job at the 6th Annual GLAD brunch at the House of Blues.

Well I must tip my hat off to our good friend Rachel Braver. Once again she out did herself. Her hard work for the last several months paid off... an OUTSTANDING morning of CELEBRATION for GLAD and their supporters at the 6th Annual GLAD Brunch a the House of Blues.

Rachel Braver, Director of Public Relations (GLAD), Marlee Matlin, Shattering the Glass Walls Award Recipient, Lupe Ontiveros, Activist/Actress, Fabian Sanchez, Dancing with the Stars, Jamie Lee Curtis, Special Guest Presenter

Stereotype-defying Marlee Matlin honored at GLAD Benefit

The Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) hosted a rousing 6th Annual GLAD Brunch Benefit at the world-famous House of Blues Sunset Strip on Sunday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to noon. C.J. Jones, comedian/actor, entertained as Master of Ceremonies and actress/author Jamie Lee Curtis presented the award to friend, Marlee Matlin, Academy Award™ winning actress, author and most recently seen on “Dancing with the Stars”.

Our Miss Braver, Sara Braver, Jamie Lee & Morty!

“Shattering the Glass Walls” award was presented for the first time at the House of Blues benefit to Matlin from GLAD for being one of the most recognizable and successful role models in defying convention. Attendees enjoyed House of Blues Sunset Strip’s world famous Gospel Brunch, a menu composed of a Southern-style buffet and specialties and a spirited live show. Real Time Captioning was projected onto a screen and theater-trained interpreters accompanied the live show.

Jamie Lee on Ronn Savala's attire... "Honey is it really this years fashion?"

The proceeds benefit the ongoing activities and diverse programs at GLAD. The mission of the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) is to ensure equal access of the deaf and hard of hearing community to the same opportunities afforded their hearing counterparts. The organization's general purposes and powers are directed around the promotion of the social, recreational, cultural, educational, and vocational well-being of its deaf and hard of hearing constituents.

Ronn Savala & Jamie Lee

GLAD's specific and primary purpose is to act as a coordinating agency that addresses the broad social service needs of deaf and hard of hearing people through direct service provision, advocacy, research and dissemination of information regarding deafness to parents, professionals and consumers. GLAD offers broad and comprehensive services such as Community Education, Communication Access, Counseling, Advocacy, Information and Referral, Job Accessibility, Independent Living Skills, Parent Education, Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Clinic Sensitivity Training, HIV/AIDS Prevention and Sign Language Interpreting Referral Services.

Pilar & Gabriel Buelna GLADly supported GLAD

GLAD has been improving the lives of the deaf and hard of hearing since its creation as a volunteer organization in 1969. GLAD is committed to the philosophy “…of, by, for and with the deaf and hard of hearing.”

Marlee & Me!!! Mark A. Martinez

Various corporations and organizations that have shown support and interest in the deaf and hard of hearing community were brought together by this inimitable benefit. The Title Sponsor for this event was Sorenson Communications, the nation’s leading provider of video relay services (VRS) and equipment for the deaf community (www.sorensonvrs.com). Additional sponsors of the benefit included Sprint Relay, Robert Gore Rifkind Foundation, Showtime Networks, Inc., City National Bank, Nordstrom, Hands On Video Relay Services, Pioneer, KNBC, Councilmember Jose Huizar CD 14, Kiwanis Club of Eagle Rock, The Walt Disney Company and others.

Carlos "DirtyVegas" & friend

250 leaders and friends of the community attended this sold out unique benefit. Donations can be made in support of GLAD by visiting www.gladinc.org.

Ronn Savala & super dancer Fabian Sanchez

For more information about GLAD, visit www.gladinc.org, call 323-478-8000 or e-mail info@gladinc.org

It's me and Jamie Lee!

ISN'T THIS A FUN FILLED PROCESS!

2008-02-26T17:20:00.000-08:00

Are we going to have another Republication President?

It’s getting really scary out there.

I have heard many comments the last few weeks from fellow Democrats expressing their unhappiness with our party.

It’s heartbreaking to know that history that was to be made might not be made. Hilliary or Obama. Who would have known that for the first time in history a Woman or a African American Man would be running at the same time for the President of the United States of America. Sure there have been women and blacks (or a black woman) who have thrown their hats into the ring before… but never has it been a race that could be won by either.

I have heard many whisper if their candidate does not get the nomination that they will switch parties or not vote. Well not voting is wrong so switching parties might be the answer here. Being registered all my life as a Democrat, I might take a walk on the wild side and re-register with the Green Party. I am so unhappy with how the two Democrat candidates have divided us. It’s become a racial and popularity contest. It’s no longer about your qualifications ones achievements, but rather making choices to songs that once graced our hearts during the summer of love. “Say it Loud! I’m Black and I’m Proud” or “You come a long way baby!”

If we intelligently look at what’s in front of us, on our plates and accepted the good things that were put there, the choice would be easy. But it’s like someone watching all the hype on TV about some new product that is doing to dramatically change their image or give them a feel good feeling, that we push our veggies aside and go for that feel good pill as the all mighty answer to all our problems, knowing deep down that the veggies are a smarter choice. That’s how I feel about this election. We have TWO great candidates and ONE who is qualified and has experience and ONE that give us hopes. I think hoping is nice. I think smart choices are best. One step at a time. Patience. Time will tell.

I see young people who are so ready to make a change but these same young people don’t even know their history and how the political machine runs in Washington. There is not going to be some magic wand that showers us with change and it happens just like that. This change must come from unity and people changing themselves, stopping their addiction to gas hungry SUV’s, having to have the biggest house, having to play the loudest music, having to be so much better. Most of these people couldn’t tell you 1% of how Washington works. I being one. But I certainly am aware of how change happens. It starts with YOU. So for all of you who think this change comes with not price and it’s going to be all fine and dandy, you better wake up and start looking at the real issues here. We are in a takeover in a country that is getting more money than our children get for school. We are in a important time in history that we need to stop depending on foreign oil and business. We are in a important time of loosing our children to guns at school. All these things are important. The only change is going to start with YOU. It’s those questions your candidate needs to be aware of. How are we going to change the American attitude? How are we going to change our society so our children can go to school and not worry about some kid pulling out a gun and killing them?

Don’t be fooled, be a smart voter. KNOW what your candidates stand for and what they CAN change.

OK Kiddies... Now for a look at the Torres familia on VACATION in the motherland MEXICO!

Hmmm looks like their having fun!!!!

This doesn't look like fun!!! I would have a heart attack! You go Ruthie.

I certainly hope they didn't eat these afterwards.

The little one looks tired, isn't she cute. The Torres are expecting another addition to their family soon. If you haven't visited their store please do soon. They always have a great selection of furniture and great prices! BUENA VISTA FURNITURE.

JIMBO'S BACK!!!!!

Lord willin' n the creeks don't rise (i.e., if it isn't raining) He'll be back at the Far Bar this Thursday and Friday playing some good ole country, blues and roots rock. Will start about 6 on Thursday, and 5 on Friday, so come on by after work and enjoy some fun music and great drinks in alley....downtown LA's coolist patio bar. Located in the Far Bar restaurant, 347 E. 1st Street, Little Tokyo. You can enter thru the restaurant, or from the alley next door.

This guy can play the blues with the rest of them. Good music and drinks!!! Don't miss Mr. Jimbo and if you stop by and see him... well certainly buy the guy a drink!

JOCEE's 70th birthday.... Via La Cita!

Cita y Ricardo... mi familia!!!

I want to thank Ricardo and Cita for making my mother Josie's 70th birthday a memorial one. You know, my mother is a great person. She raised 5 children by herself. Never was on welfare... always working hard to keep clothes and food in the house. She has always accepted my crazy self. My love of music comes from her. I can remember her and her friends dancing to the Stones, and signing such great songs such as "Stoned" by Dylan. Will write more about Josie in future blogs.

Josie getting ready to blow out the candles.

Don't forget to visit Ronn's Website

I've been using some of the Repechage products and I must tell you... they are really good. Check that part of his site out and see all the great products they have especially the ones for the summer months. There will also be some new products on the Keune line up in about a month. Ronn Savala... he's your man ladies!

THE CHANGE....

2008-02-06T16:06:00.000-08:00

WE ARE GOING TO MAKE HISTORY... And someone tells us there's gonna be a change.

WE ARE GOING TO MAKE HISTORY... And someone tells us I will lead and make changes through experience

These two candidates have similar views. One has experience, many years of experience, the other keeps on crying change.

I am a gay LATINO man. I have seen many changes in my lifetime. There are many things that were changed and will continue to be changed. But in order to change things you have to have people who can work together to make that change. I am not putting down Mr. Obama’s hard effort to make changes, but I am also realistic. I have not heard in his platform of CHANGE that is going to represent me. A Gay Latino and have worked really hard to see change. False promises’ is what gets people in trouble. False hope is greed. If elected Mr. Obama will walk into the same old, same old. The everyday bull @$@# of politics. Nothing is guaranteed. No matter what color or sex you are, you still have to sit down and WORK with people in order to make the CHANGE. Yes he has the Bill Clinton qualities... he can make you listen with his great preaching, but when all is said and done, it doesn't mean a thing when your wheeling and dealing with Washington.
So this change means nothing to me, but it seems to have hypnotized the nation. Is that all I have to do to get ahead? Walk around yelling CHANGE then hoping everyone changes with me? And what gets me most is this chanting of CHANGE in a slogan that our fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandfathers, grandmothers have been yelling for years SI SE PUEDE!!!!! But for some reason it has to be done in English to make it acceptable. So I am not sold on this CHANGE thing. Change will come with experience and hard work. She (the other candidate) possess these qualities. I am tired of them putting her down as the same old same old. We’ll anyone who votes realizes that special interest groups are always involved in who gets elected. So the CHANGE candidate needs to put his hand to his mouth when accusing HER as one of special interest influence… he should look in the mirror and realize that he is where he is cause of these special interest groups.

Lastly, what are the views on Gay & Lesbian issues with both candidates? Why in this wonderful moment of history are we taking a back seat? We still are the ones who are fighting hard for our equality in this FREE nation. So why are we being silent? What about abortion? Why are these two important issues no longer issues? Have we come that far ahead in society that we no longer have to worry about getting gay bashed because of our sexual orientation? Is it now a thing of the past for a young woman who was raped to be able to walk into a clinic and seek help without harassed or jailed for something that is HER choice?

So what is the CHANGE? Let me know. Leave your comments.

SUPER BOWL/SUPER TUESDAY

2008-02-03T09:36:00.000-08:00

The most important week in history…. Or at least in my lifetime.
Today is Super Bowl Sunday 2008, New England who is undefeated against a hungry New York Giants team. History will be made regardless who wins… either the Patriots with their undefeated record or the Giants with Eli Manning who if they win, would join is brother Payton in wearing the Super Bowl ring come Monday.

This Tuesday is Super Tuesday in the political world. We have a chance once again to make history this November. We are either going to elect the first African-American MAN into office or we are going to really make history by electing our countries FIRST WOMAN (black or white) Commander in Chief. Needless the say by the picture… I am giving my support the Ms. Clinton. I believe she possesses the experience this country needs and is a true leader in making change. Not everything will make everyone happy regardless who you support. But I think the real change will come by finally putting to rest that women are less qualified to run this country. Many other countries have had GREAT woman lead them. It’s time American’s move forward and truly put her support behind one. After all isn’t one waving a torch and greeting the world as millions visit our country? If she’s good enough to greet them, she’s damn good enough to lead them!

Ms. Braver & the Fabulous Eleanor Duffy!

Last Saturday was the annual Eagle Rock Installation Dinner which several community people were honored including our good friend Eleanor Duffy. We had the honor of being asked to join the Duffy family by Eleanor’s daughter Mary. It was a nice evening to spend with old and new friends. Rachel Braver from GLAD (Great Los Angeles Agency on Deafness) provided these pictures…. I must say doesn’t she look fabulous! A hot catch for a lucky man. Some of the guest included Sr. Nick Pacheco (I love this guy, a good friend and has done many things for the ER community), Ruby De Vera and her beautiful daughter, Tom Topping (Mr. ER news reporter), Joanne Turner (who looked fabulous), Mr. Vic from Colombos (who catered the event) , Yolie Flores-Aguilar (our district 5 LAUSD board member), many of Eleanor’s family including her daughter’s Maureen & Mary, and many many more. Altogether it was a fun nite and a lot of catching up as we haven’t stepped out for a community event in a long time. Thanks once again to Rachel B. for her wonderful pictures.

Mr. Topping & the Lady in Red "Denise Miller"

Ms. Mary and Mr. Savala

Ms. Braver & Mr. Colombos himself Victor Parrino

Eleanors beautiful daughter Maureen & her husband You don't want to get into trouble with these two, one's a Judge and one's a Lawyer! : )~

This man can fix your back! Dr. Shapiro

Rachael Braver and yours truly

NOW FOR THE PLUGS!

These brothers can make you a nice shirt!
Check out Rolando & David Alvarado's t-shirt and banner business. There prices are great and they do quality work.
Call them at 800.839.6978 or visit their website at: ramcowest.com

JENNY LENS, "Punk Pioneers"

You can pre-order your copy now! You get a discount on a book that is filled with amazing photos and really interesting facts about an era of music that had a social and creative impact on the sound and sites of rock n roll!!! You can pre-order it from Amazon.com this book is going to be hot!

PLEASE CHECK OUT GABRIEL BUELNA'S NEW VETURE

This is a way for Non Profits to network, if you are looking for employment, seeking a consultant amongst a few the things you will find at this website. So if your a non profit or you know of one please visit their website thenonprofitnetwork.org.

GET READY FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

Well Valentine's Day is just around the corner so make sure you call Ronn Savala and make your appointments early. Also please call him if any of you girls want to book a Spa day which is only available this month on the 9th or 10th. It's a fun thing to do as you and your friends get to relax and enjoy your spa day the way you want it. Call Ronn at 626.281.4133 and get it going!

Whole Lotta Love~!

2008-01-24T15:08:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS ELEANOR DUFFY!

The Eagle Rock Chamber will be honoring our Ms. Duffy (and that's MS with a lot of class) this Saturday at their annual installation dinner. Eleanor is a great friend along with her daughter Mary Duffy-Petersen. Ms. Duffy has done many things for Eagle Rock and has been big supporter of many of our elected officials hosting wonderful events at her beautiful home throughout the years. I have lived in Eagle Rock since 1980, Eleanor was always been involved and helped make Eagle Rock what it is today. I have found memories of her, we miss seeing her at Colombo's... it's just not the same without you darling. Eleanor, we love you, you are an angel, congratulations from Ronn and I.

Here to plug some events by friends, so I expect all of you to participate!

First Joesph & Ruthie’s fabulous store BUENA VISTA FURNITURE is having a sale this weekend
A Special offer to Kick off the New Year..
This Weekend Only!
Take 40% off any single item !!
Sale starts January 25th thru January 27th

Offer is good for one item only, in store items only, excludes special orders. One offer per household. Final Sales no returns and or exchanges. Offer does include Layaway purchases. Visit their site

Don’t miss this sale… they have unique items and great prices. They recently returned from what we were told as a FABULOUS vacation and they promise to send me pixs so I can post them.

BELLIES BELLIES BELLIES

Next I want to plug DeVilla solo and with her group Saharan Sirens, here is her schedule for the next few months… please try and attend one of her shows, she is not only beautiful but an EXCELLENT dancer!

DESERT ROSE
5042 Vineland St.
No. Ho. 91000
(next to Enchanted Deva's)
818-714-4858

DeVilla be there almost every Fri. and Sat. night from 8-10.
Drop by, say Hi and smoke a Hookah!!!

She will be starting a basic Belly Dance/workout class very soon!
Contact her for details!!!

DeVilla's Dance dates

DeVilla is performing every Friday and Saturday night at

The Desert Rose
5042 Vineland st.
No. Hollywood, Ca. 91000
1-818-714-4858

For more info contact:
desertrose@gmail.com

DeVilla is performing various dates at

Dar Maghreb Moroccan Restaurant
7651 Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood, Ca. 90046
1-323-876-7651

Jan. 30th
Feb. 5th.11th, 12th, and 25th (Feb. 5th is a showcase, meal is $25.
Ask for the showcase)
March 9th, 10th, 12th,16th, 17th, 18th and 31st
these dates subject to change, call ahead!

Tonya and Atlantis's Showcase at
Pelican Isle
Long Beach, Ca.
Feb.7th
www.tonyandatlantis.com
for details

Belly Dancer of the Year Competition
Long Beach Convention Center

Feb.16th competing in the Group category with the SAHARAN SIRENS
Feb 17th competing in the Egyptian Solo category
Both categories finals held at during the night time show

Demonica and the Darklings Record release party at
CIA
No. Ho.
Feb.23rd

Princess Frahana's (Pleasant) Birthday showcase at
Moun of Tunis Restaurant
Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood, Ca. 90046

Call for a reservation, It'll get packed!

New Classes coming SOON!
Bellydance work out at the Desert Rose
Saturday Mornings 10:30
e mail me for registration and Info!
devillaraks@gmail.com

and

Starting in April
DeVilla's MAKE UP FOR DANCERS Intensive
Dance Garden
3407 Glendale Blvd.
Los Angeles, Ca. 90039
1-323-660-4556

April 6th,13th and 20th
Three sundays!
Lots of Glitter and eyelashes!
and a photo shoot at the end so you can capture the new you!!!

SAHARAN SIRENS
The power house trio of Celeste, Jamilla and DeVilla
Will be performing at

TaXim
3515 Eagle Rock Blvd.
Los Angeles, Ca. 90065
Feb. 2nd
$15
Great live music!

The Oasisat the Forbidden City
1718 Vinest.
Hollywood, Ca. 90028
Feb.3rd 6-9pm
Terrific Venue, Full Bar! $10

Belly Dancer of the Universe Competition
Feb.16th
Info above

El Camino College Artist in Residence Show
March 7th
More info soon!

My little Sister Rosa moved to Buckwheat AZ recently and will be looking for a job soon… so if any of you have connections hook the girl up!!!!!! She has a resume she can e-mail to you. She is a very organized person with a great personality. Here e-mail is: rosaramirez75@yahoo.com if you want to know what she is qualified for and have any leads in the area.

Here are some pixs I wanted to post:

GO BETTY GO!

Our friend Betty and her husband Tom.... sexy team aren't they! Betty is in the skin care business her operation is located in Claremont, so for those of you how walk on that wild side check her out! Skin Care by Betty.

THOSE WERE THE DAYZ!

Miss Trudi and myself... Good gosh! Someone is trying to burn me with their cig! I think that is my friend Dan as that shirt sleeve looks familiar : )~ This picture I believe was taken fall of 1977 by our world famous punk photographer Jenny Lens... it was behind the Pussy Cat Theater on Hollywood Blvd. (alley where the Masque was).

Lastly I want to the the "Beav" Rachel Braver, she was a God sent as I had a cold the last few weeks and she was kind enough to give me her meds to get better!!!! Now that's a GREAT friend. Of course I didn't rag her, but I really wanted some of Sara's Matzah Ball Soup! CAN YOU HEAR ME SARA!!!!!!!

OK that’s it for today. It’s raining and I am about to make myself comfortable and put it down for the evening.

Peace
Mandog!

Here's to 2008!

2008-01-20T12:23:00.000-08:00

Well it’s 2008 and I look forward to a great year!
Ended 2007 with a lot of food and drink. December was packed with lots of events, including Ronn and ours 6th anniversary, my 50th b-day and of course Jesus B-day and New Years! We had our annual tamales cook off at our good friends Peggy & George (aka Big Daddy and Little Mama) home in Pomona. I must say they were very delicious! We also spend our annual tamales eating nite with Ricardo and Cita… I was sad as I thought we might miss it. Ricardo was in Mexico for several weeks and Cita was in New Mexico while he was away. But all worked out as they came back in their lovely new home… a 40 foot motor home named “La Liberital” and she is a beauty! I wish them much happiness and don’t be surprised if you see them driving up your street for a visit!
My family through me a 50th surprise party and boy was I surprised! I never had one and I must say… I was surprised. It was nice to see my family and friends on this special day. Thank you guys, I will never forget it.

THIS LADY NEEDS A NEW SINK!
Ronn and I were happy to help Olga Suro with her new sink.... will post pictures later of the turn out, but it looks FABULOUS!

Heard from Jenny Lens the her book “Punk Pioneers” will be out April 22nd long time coming but well worth the wait! I am so excited. She has worked so hard for this. I see many more photo books from Ms. Lens in the near future. She has a lot of history in negs that need to be put to words and paper! Please visit her web site and check out her cool pix for sale before the prices go up after the publication of the book www.jennylens.comI love her dearly and hope that 2008 brings us more projects to work together on.

Want to plug some of Ronn Savala services also… the AquaDetox and Repechage Skin Care products. The AquaDetox is a way to pull nasty stuff out of your body. Your feet have 2000 pores which makes them a good way to detox from. You soak your feet in water with an array that circulates electricity through your body, this helps balance your body as well as pull out heavy metals and toxics. You will feel much better after a treatment and if you do a serious of 6 (6 weeks) treatments you get a discount. Try it, you’ll like it! Also the skin care line of Repechage is a healthy way to take care of your skin. The products are seaweed based and there are several products to help your skin feel and look great. Check out his web site at: www.Ronnsavala.com.

Well that’s if for now. Got lots of projects and personal things to get accomplished this year. I wish you all a great 2008 and I for one am looking forward to a change in the Presidential election! We are going to make history. She will be a wonderful leader!

Geeze Louise!!! It's been 8 months!!!!

2007-12-03T18:23:00.001-08:00

Dia de los Muertos 2007. I usually plan for this festive event months in advance. But this year in particular I was sooooooo slow in getting started with the Calaveras y Diablo. I actually started these two guys 10 days before November 1st!!!!! I was VERY proud that they turned out nicely. Possibly my best ones EVER. That’s our little friend Antonia in the middle. Doesn’t’ she look nice and dead? Pretty but a bit cold.
Ronn, Manuella, Antonio and myself got our booties over to Self Help Graphics for an evening of fun and more dead people. This years seemed a little to have more turista’s but it made for more fun. There were soooooo many cameras this nite my eyes were still blind the next day from all the flashes. All in all it was good times.

PUNK PIONEERS….

Jenny Lens the world’s BEST punk photographer has been hard at work, pounding away, fine tuning… getting the facts jack for her upcoming book “Punk Pioneers”. This book will hit the selves in April 2008. It’s a HISTORICAL look at the beginning of Los Angeles Punk 1976 – 1980. What is most exciting about her book is the many pictures of not only the bands and performers on stage but Jenny’s ability to capture many moments when they were not on stage thus giving the audience a moment captured that are personal and a lot more intimate then the other books now coming forward about Punk.
Jenny was there, she was there with her camera in hand clicking away and making history. She was not paid; she did this as art. Spending countless hours in her dark room developing film, making prints turning the shadows and blurs into fabulous photos, photos that told a story and many would be published and MANY of the bands/personalities would become international rock icons!
So now the whole world will know Alice Bag, Trudi, Helen Killer, Mary the Rat!!!! I would mention Pleasant but SHE IS publicity. My friends from days of craziness can thank Jenny as they will be forever immortalized in B/W and a few in color! So treat yourself to some amazing photos and read some good history on a part of music that changed sound and look of Rock N Roll forever get your asses out and purchase this book. You can pre-order it on Amazon.com and save some mula. If you want purchase a great holiday/x-mas present please visit www.jennylens.com and purchase one of Jenny's photographs which she will sign!!! What a great present for the Punk in U!

Check on some friends

Our good friends at Buena Vista Furniture are having a holiday sale and the prices are out of this world! Ruthie and Joseph have such an amazing selection of beautiful furniture and items that will add to anyone’s home or office décor. Not only will your eyes feast on the many pieces from all parts of the world, but your pocket book will seem endless with great deals and specials. There truly is no other store like this in all of Los Angeles as testament to the many studios and celebrities that shop there. No Betty La Fiea’s here! Just rooms of beautiful furniture and all the fixings that go with it!

Oxxofilms…. Oh my, what can I say about my friend Adam Valdez and his collection of steamy hot, sexy and sometimes humorous selection of Spanish language DVD’s? Check out his web site OxxoFilms and you will see what I am talking about. There are many titles to choose from to make your hot tamale even hotter! Sr. Valdez has the nitch on películas muy, muy, muy caliente! For pochos like me check out Charly Valentino’s collection of sexy comedies. These had me rolling on the floor!

For the beauty minded… Visit ronnsavala.com and check out the Keune® and SoPure® line of shampoos and hair care products along with the Repechage® body products, call Ronn at 626.281.4133 and about his Holiday Specials!!! Don’t miss out!

Saharan Sirens!!! Check out these belly shaking ladies as they make their debut in the next several weeks. Featuring the debut performance of Jamilla, DeVilla and Celeste!! For more info and bookings please contact Jamilla at 323.314.0239 or visit jamillasoul guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a wiggle in your jiggle!

Well that’s it for now.

These are some non-profit’s that I have worked with, if you wish to make a donation please do so…. It is for those less fortunate that we need to open not just our hearts but give what we can so the future of mankind becomes a better world to walk amongst.

Proyecto Pastoral at Dolores Mission
Plaza Community Services
Mexican American Opportunity Foundation
Great Los Angeles Agency on Deafness

I wish EVERYONE a Happy Holiday and prosperous 2008 especially my little sister Rosa and her husband Beto.... their new venture and new home will be a happy and joyous one, may laughter and happiness always be present for you both.

Lastly, to my beautiful friend Celina... Your an Angel... I love you with all my heart. Happy belated 40th. I look forward to our annual X-mas lunch. Your sister and yourself are blessed.

Peace
The Mandog

GET A MEXICAN TO DO IT....

2007-04-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

It’s been a few days since I have written here, sorry guys my mind is active, just a little busy.

Note the picture to the left of our audience…. It’s our friend actually mowing his own yard! What a novel idea. The reason why I posted this pictures is that I’m getting tired of people making comments whenever they see us working in our yard… maybe it’s in our blood, but I for one like to enjoy a beautiful day by taking mother natures wonders and shaping them up. So this is my topic for the day.

A friend of ours dropped by today as I was on my knees picking the weeds from the planter box in the front yard. God forbid my neighbors see these nasty things, when he asked me “Why don’t you hire a Mexican to do that?” Needless to say my pinche little pocho brain began to smolder like a hot tortilla on the grill! My response to him, “So hire a Mexican as in as a person from Mexico (our motherland) itself?… or someone who is brown and standing around the HomeDepot looking for trabajo? Complete silence as usual when I stated such a fact. As mentioned above I enjoy working in my yard. As for his comment, what really gets me is some people actually believe everyone who is a day labor is Mexicano. Don’t they realize that these hard working people could be from El Salvador, Guatemala, Brazil, maybe even (if they are from the extreme part) Argentina! Us brown people come in many shapes and forms and are from many parts of the world. Through modern ways of travel we know get here faster and from further parts of the world. We no longer swim across the border, we ride first class on trains, planes and hybrid automobiles. If your really a smart neo techo person, you can use the internet super highway to hire a day laborer, just go to: www.pinchebush.com. There you can not only get one legally for 90 days but they come with their own papers to get back! Oh did I mention that this also includes a round trip ticket on Pocho Airlines first class with meals included! No more picking your day laborer from the airport with his lunch leftovers of chorizo sandwiches that his abuela pack for the long flight… oh the smell! So come all ye gringos and put your fingers to the key board and get moving before your lawn gets out of control!

Enough for today, it’s time for bed. I hope you write back, I am still waiting on good chisme! Don’t be afraid just type away.

Mandog!

NOTHING LIKE GOOD MEXICANO FOOD!

2007-04-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

17 years of amazing comida! Oh sorry, was just relaxing and thinking about my wonderful steak picado burrito I had for lunch over at “LA ABEJA”.

I have been going to La Abeja for about 17 years now. I first went with my friends Lucia, Martha and Ivy way back when my nephew was still in high school. The first time I went I thought it was a gay hang out but later figured out that the art community from Mt. Washington were frequent gobblers of Roy’s family establishment. The food here is amazing and the beans are the absolute best in town! I highly recommend La Abeja not only for its authentic Mexican food but for it’s all around friendly atmosphere.

Way back when at Abeja you would find Roy’s mother sitting behind the counter eyeing and enjoying the wide variety of cliental. She was a wonderful person. She instructed her family members working at the restaurant not to turn down a hungry sole even if they couldn’t afford to pay. Now that was a woman with a big heart. Roy’s two daughters and son worked the tables. These kids have seen EVERYTHING under the sun by working at Abeja… even us weekend wacko’s. Almost every Saturday Lucia, Martha, Ivy and myself would go eat breakfast and enjoyed our weekly chisme… often the chisme was so funny that we laughed out crying and at times got very loud. We actually developed a fan club. People would ask Roy what days we came so they could sit there and listen to our wild stories of local politicals and people in our wonderful city of the angels. Abeja was the hot spot for local city officials and their staff.

Through the years not much has changed at La Abeja except the girls don’t work there anymore, Roy, Jr. is still there as does Tia Gloria. If you visit La Abeja make sure you give Tia Gloria a big tip and a big kiss~ She is a special lady. And be prepared for some amazing food, and watch your guard as you NEVER know who might be sitting behind you, so keep your chisme cool!

Bon appetit.

La Abeja is located at 3700 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90065 (Mt. Washington).
323.221.0474
Open Wed-Sat’s 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sundays 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Mondays 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

AND DON’T EXPECT CHIPS cause they don’t serve em.

Until tomorrow,
mandog

A HARD DAY WAS TODAY.....

2007-04-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

I spent most of the morning and early afternoon at my friend Ivy Orta's home helping her father Jose do some chores around the house, I owe Ivy for many things in my life…. She is a TRUE friend and always there. Ivy is only person who can put ANYONE in there place just by looking at them, she keeps us all in check! I love you Ivy.

Nothing much to yap about today, Florida won the big dance yesterday. I was cheering for Ohio St., but I must admit that Florida had the better team and played hard and wanted it more.

I got this great picture of my friend Rachel Braver. Rachel works for GLAD, Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. Many people confuse it with the other GLADD which is a Gay & Lesbian organization. She is the Director of Public Relations and does a fine job at it. She is very inspirational and also is a good friend when times are hard. She will pick you up and stand behind, reminding one how we can accomplish our goals if we set your minds to it. Rachel also has wonderful parents, Sarah and Morty! They are the most wonderful people, they are always happy to sit you down to a good Jewish spread… so if you ever get invited out with them DON’T EAT until you get there cause there will be plenty at their table. Check out the picture of Rachel B. with Eric Estrada!

Speaking of GLAD, it saddens me that they often do not get the sponsorships or attention that other non-profits seem to flourish with. They are located here in the hip and trendy community of Eagle Rock and have many events through the year. One of the best is the House of Blues yearly fundraiser. Check out their website www.gladinc.org and find out more on how you can support our Deaf and Hard of Hearing community and if any of you are in a position to supply corporate sponsorship for any of there events please extend your hand- your hands are the voice to those who don’t hear.

Ok guys that’s it, not much chisme today but what’s here is all true!

Peace

MONDAY, MONDAY'S

2007-04-02T17:02:00.000-07:00

It's Monday and the big game is on tonite, not the game I wanted but still the game. Ohio St. vs. Flordia. Not because Florida beat UCLA but I think I am rooting for Ohio St. My reason simple that they are the Big 10 and I think the East coast teams get too much hype. GO BUCKEYES!!!!

This morning I volunteered my eye for color by helping our friend Manuela find a good color for a dress Ronn is making for her. We went to Michael Levine’s downtown. It was an adventure as she had her young daughter with her, Antonia who is on spring break. I had to make sure the things that came out of my mouth were suitable for a 12 year old… especially since she is a super chigona from El Serreno who is attending Claybourne in San Marino and God forbid she picks up one of my xicano slang words and gets the boot at school for being brown and having attitude… “Ayi Dios!”.

The adventure was fun but all the time I had my eye on one of those hotdogs that they ladies make on their little carlitos wrapped in bacon and dripping with all that fat… boy did it make me hungry. Well needless to say I found out that I was not the only one who was craving one… but we were good and bypassed them.

I am always happy to see all the creative mother’s who still go and buy beautiful fabrics in which to create their daughters/sons/husbands/comadres/compadres/tio/tias/etc. etc. mas y mas ropas (boy that’s hard to type). My mind just images all kinds of things about them, where they live, how they live and why the hell would they choose that fabric? But it puts me in the mood to be more creative. I also found it fascinating that after all these years we Latino’s have been in the city of the angeles and the pinche manikins still have no curves… well at least in front, for some reason they all had really big behinds… but very flat fronts! What’s up with that? I kept on looking at Manuela (who is blessed with… well you know) and these manikins and the styles on them and thinking “I hope the front stretch as good as the back”.

LATE BREAKING NEWS FROM JENNY LENS.. “the girl with the camera eye”

Mark,

PASSOVER!!! It’s Passover! Loved the blog, but you need to add line breaks between paragraphs.

You sure have a lot to say all at once.

I couldn’t stop laughing. You have a wonderfully lively way of expressing yourself.

Will you please translate!! Lots don’t know what is LGBT (I just found out this weekend cos I saw a ref somewhere about Jewish LGBT actors/actresses and found a list on wikipedia). What’s chiladas and chanclas and tres flores and nagas! Damnit, I hate it when people use terms that drive me to wikipedia.

We don’t all live in your world, but we want to share it. And you want people to respond. Many many people in LA and elsewhere have no idea what these words mean. And if you want to reach people, don’t make them feel like they are being deliberately excluded.

Love love love you.

Talk to you soon.

OK FOR MS. LEN’S SAKE AS WELL AS OTHERS:

I have copies this from “The Adventures of Connie Chancla” so I can not take the credit but it’s a Calo Glossary of Slang, Profanity & Vulgar Expressions ©Maria Elena Gaitan, 1998.

The following vocabulary is a humorous sampling of slang, profanity and vulgar expressions regarding Chicanos, Mexicanos, women, workers and immigrants. Profanity might well be considered a substitute for war. Instead of hurling a stone, spear or bullet, we hurl an epithet, an insult or a ‘palabrota’. So, if the chancla fits…

AGACHADO: Underdog; stoop laborer; oppressed person.

¡AY GüEY!: (Literally) Oh You Ox! Oh you Beast of Burden! A stupid person.

ALAMBRISTA: An undocumented Mexican human being who came across the border by crawling under the barbed-wire or ‘Alambre’.

AZTLAN: The Capital of Pocholandia.

BEANER: A derogatory term used by gringos towards Chicanos, meaning half-breed, ill-bred, a degenerate expression of North American culture, particularly in the Southwestern United States. (See POCHO).

CHANCLA: An old shoe.

CHINGAR: To strike, hurt, oppress, irritate or #uck someone over: ¡Ya no chingues!

CHUNTARO: (See ¡NO SEAS INDIO!).

ESQUINEROS: (Literally) Corner People, a term referring to day laborers in the U.S.

JAROCHO: The offspring of Indian and African parents.

JODER: (see CHINGAR).

LA LINA: (Literally) The Line, The U.S. /Mexico Border.

LA MIGA: A term denoting the armed border military apparatus otherwise known as the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS).

LA TUYA: (no not Michael Jackson’s sister!) Yo Mama!

MOJADO: Wet; Wet Back

NACO: A derogatory term used by City Slickers to denote County Bumkins as unsophisticated, rural, or country. (See ¡NO SEAS INDIO!).

¡NO SEAS INDIO!: (Literally) Don’t be an Indian! Don’t be stupid!

PELADA RASCUACHE: A coarse rowdy woman.

PELADA RASCUACHE CABRONA: A coarse rowdy mean woman.

PELADA RASCUACHE DE BUEN CORAZON: A coarse rowdy compassionate woman.

PELADA/PELADO: Coarse; poor; low-class person.

PENDEJA/PENDEJO: A person of limited intellectual capacity; a dummy.

PINCHE: A derogatory qualifier that can be used as a noun or adjective used in a similar fashion to the English profane word ‘#ucker’ as in ‘#ucked-up’ or ‘#ucking’: ie ‘No seas pinche;’ ‘La pinche migra.’ The word pinche can also be diminutive or augmentative as in ‘Pinchisismo Ron Unz’.
Side note on this one: If you want to a good laugh (those of use who grew up with the word ‘pinche’) then check out http://www.pinche.hvdgm.nl/

POCHA/POCHO: A derogatory term used by Mexicans towards Chicanos, meaning half-breed, ill-bred, a degenerate expression of Mexican culture in language, dress, manner and attitude. (See BEANER).

POCHOLANDIA: The place where Pochas and Pochos flourish in harmony with La Madre Tierra.

OK, that ought to catch those of you who don’t know the slang up to date!

Finally on this day I want to plug my good friends Cita y Ricardo. They are truly amazing people. As artist their music is not only unique but is visually a must to see if they are playing in town. I will write more about Cita y Ricardo tomorrow.

OK that’s it kiddies… as for the chisme of the day, well I think enough was written above so now tell me yours!

Mark

Next year BRUINS!

2007-04-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

Well I gave up my Final Four weekend of drunkenness and chingasos to help our dear friend Jimmy Szabo move some nice furniture he bought from Buena Vista Furniture to his new home just outside of Phoenix, AZ. I told him I would only help (or rather we as my partner Ronn is the one who actually volunteered us) if I could watch the games on Saturday. He assured me that was not a problem. He failed to tell me that he didn’t have the TV connected to cable nor antenna! Pinche Jim!!!!! So I made Jimmy boy go to the local hardware store and buy a cheap and sleezly antenna that plugs into the back of the set… I prayed all the way back to his house from the hardware store that the VOG (Virgin of Guadalupe) would bless us with at least somekind of picture… even if it meant grain or lines through the picture (hell after one too many Volka cranberry it all looks the same). Well it worked and I got to watch the games… I was no expecting all my wishes to come true that day, at least I got to watch the game as for UCLA continuing to the final game… next year. They are a very good team, it just was not their day. BRUINS 12th NCAA championship in 2008! As for Phoenix... well all I can say the only exciting thing this weekend was driving by a Mexican Restaurant named "Aunt Chilada's"!!!! What a great name! Maybe I will open up the male version and name it "Male Nudo" like Menudo- hmmm I better think about this people would then think it's a male strip club... forget it.
Speaking of Buena Vista Furniture, if you haven’t been to Ruthie and Joseph’s store, please do so. Visit their website at:www.buenavistafurniture.com They have AMAZING pieces of furniture from all over the world and their prices are the BEST. I know my friend Josefina Lopez is a frequent visitor, I saw many pieces from their at her beautiful new home in Silver Lake. She and her husband Emmanuel celebrated Josefina’s 38th birthday party a couple of weeks ago and introduced to the Xicano world their extremely bonito casa… It’s full of color and has a nice big yard with beautiful trees to shade it.
Speaking of color… oh sorry not color but rather black and white, my best and most creative friend in the whole wide world “Jenny Lens” just sent me an e-mail that had me flashing back and laughing! During the years 1976-1980 something Jenny used her gift with her camera eye to photograph many of LA’s punk bands… the groundbrakers of what we now call punk didn’t even get noticed until this crazy Jewish girl with a big afro and a hot camera started photographing them and getting them published all over the world. In her e-mail Jenny was informed by a fan that she was seen in the audience at the Grace Jones taping of midnight special Go Grace… I clicked on the URL she sent from You-Tube and low and behold there was our girl with the camera eye doing what she did best… shooting the music! More on Mz. Lens in next posting but please visit her web site at www.jennylens.com as she is one of the most amazing photographers of all time!
The picture is of me and Divine, Jenny took this I think in 1977... boy was I skinny!!!! And had a hell of a lot more hair!

OK kids no chisme today… It’s Sunday, God told us to be good and not spread Chisme on Sunday’s or the Mano Mochada will pull our legs when we are sleeping.

Mandog!

Now let's get the show on the road!!!!

2007-03-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

First off I want to plug some friends events.

Josefina Lopez new play "WHEN NATURE CALLS"

"When Nature Calls" explores the connection and responsibility of women to nature while examining the female role in contemporary society and potential change they can create within a volatile world. This play is directed by Corky Dominguez and is the story of several women finding the courage to reach deep within themselves for answers.
Please go to: www.casa0101.org to find out more and show dates and times.
Josefina is a wonderful writer and a hard working women in general!
Support her.

Ronn (my partner) and I visited a wonderful gallery recently... "ChimMaya" owned by Steven Acevedo and his partner Dan located at 5283 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90022 • 323.869.8881. They have a great variety of Xicano/a art including Yolanda Gonzalez, Emilia Garcia and many more. They do a great job at displaying their pieces, it's a must to do so put on your best chanclas and plenty of tres flores and get your nagas over there!

And lastly, please visit my good friend Luis Chavez at www.you-tu.com. This is Luis new venture, he was the previous owner of Tentaciones Magazine. He is extremely dedicated to bringing LGBT issue to the forefront along with giving us style, fashion and art to read about. Check it out!

OK my chisme for the day... I went out last week with my good friend Nick Pacheco and his lovely friend Crystal... we started at Columbos in Eagle Rock (for those of you who have been there you know what a STIFF drink they make) and ended up at the Eagle Rock Bowling Alley... needless to say I had one too many and I think I grab the mic away from almost everyone who was trying to karaoke, well in my frame of mind at the time these people just didn't get it... karaoke should be fun.. why try to sound like madonna when you can sound like patti smith or keith richards!!!
: )~ Sorry if I upstaged anyone!

That's it enjoy your evening and remember "If you can't be good... be bad!"