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November 23, 2005
Anh's Favorite Things...
Its that time of year again.. My birthday and Christmas... As the title says, its my favorite things. Not Oprah's Favorite things.. You are getting these for me, and im not giving jack out.. So check out the list. Imma update as it comes to mind and i find more stuff i want... In no particular order.. but the first item is a must!!!
William Rast Clothing
Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala have launched "William Rast", their first clothing line. And I want it!! The first taste of the clothing line premiering at the hot trendy Hollywood shop, Kitson and hitting high end stores like Bloomingdales. It has a southern vibe to it, and i can soo sport it. Why?? Im a friggin Southern kid from Kansas... I think I myself is getting this jacket myself because i cant wait, however yall can get me the shirts....
xBox 360
Its finally out.. However, dont think im some gamer.. The latest system i own is the Gamecube, and only because it was given to me. I never felt the need to want a PS2 or the first xBox. Why do i want it now?? Dane Cook has one.. He plays online and i wanna find him and PWN him!! Thats the only reason!! I do wanna see how the functionality of the phone thing. From what i have seen, its way way advance. Dane Cook, if you are reading this!! YOU WILL GET WHOOPPED!!!
iPod
The 5th generation iPod. Dont call it an Video iPod, its an iPod with video!! Yes i know i own 3 other iPods; 1 gig Shuffle, 2gb Mini, and a 40 gig 4th generation iPod. However this iPod is HOTT!! The screen is quite large with vibrate colors and incredibility small. I still need to upgrade to a color ipod and this will do it plus add some video!!
TV Show Box sets
I love television shows.. What can i do? When they hit a DVD Box set.. I can blow a DVD TV showy load... haha.. Just having the shows commercial free, all the episodes, and with extras.. Make me even a bigger fan!! Best place to get them is at Deep Discount DVD. The following is the list of shows i dont have and want.
Lost, Desperate Housewives, Smallville ( 3 & 4) , Gilmore Girls (1-5), 24 (2-4), Nip/Tuck (2), Friends (All but 1&4), Curb Your Enthusiasm (2+)
Jonathan Product - DIRT
My favorite hair product by far. It friggin makes my hair the way i want it with out weighing my hair down. Its perfect. It has a hit of almond, the smell that is and it smells good. Its sold out usually for a reason, because its great. As far as i know, the best place to find this is at Sephora.
Dolce Group Gift Certificates
Id love gift certificates from some of my favorite restaurants in Hollywood. I just love the food and the atmosphere. I still gotta hit up Dolce since im getting 50 percent off there on Mondays and Tuesday.. Yum Yum!! The following are the direct links to the gift certificate forms.
Dolce Enoteca | Geisha House | Bella Cucina
Canon - 580EX Speedlite Flash
I just need me a flash for my Canon 20D. I only need it for red carpets and soon im gonna need it for portrait shots. I d dont do too many of those, mostly concerts, but id like to have it just in case.
Paris Hilton Cologne for Men
I am absolutely in love with the womens line of this scent just as much as i am in love with Victoria Secrets' Love Spell products. The mens version of Paris Hilton perfume is just as HOT! I do already sport a few other scents however i wouldnt mind adding this to the reportoire.
Not asking for too much am I??
Posted by Anh at 5:27 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Vegas Trip Day 3
Saturday November 19th, 2005
The last day in Vegas and im kinda glad to be leaving.. Woke up practically the same time around 10. Here’s something i found out about me sleeping, I EFFIN TALK IN MY SLEEP. Dude I never knew that and I never even had any inclination that i do. I so gotta research this on Google and see what it’s all about. I guess you learn something new everyday, and man o man..
High tailed it out of the hotel and off to Caesars once again. We wanted to double check on the ticket situation. Headed on off to the media room and chatted to someone in charge. Sucks they didn’t remember who we were, i mean they stopped us and pretty much asked us what our business was. The head chick there though remembered who i was and told us to sit down and shell double check on it.
Ben had to plug into the Internet to see what the engine light means on his Jetta. An engine light turning on in the desert, 3 hours away from home for me and 4 for him. Its going to be really interesting. There was some grub behind us. Coffee, tea, water, soda, salsa, cookies, fruit and acruddatay.. Its spelled wrong, but sound it out. Its that dang vegetable plate.
The publicity people there were having a meeting to see how they were going to go about things that day. Heard them mention us, well the LA Weekly. I wasn’t paying much attention. I wanted to see how i was going about the day myself.
Ellen who was one of the head of the people handling the media, she came over and offered us some tickets to certain shows. we ended getting Dave Chappelle and Jon Stewart. Well Ben got the tickets, photogs were allowed access to shoot but I wasn’t sure on actually watching the show situation.
Nell came in to hang out. Nell was another person handling press. She was pretty much the point man doing it all. we ran into her all through out the festival. Leaving the media room the first day, the Earth to America festival, the after party in Pure, and other places.
Next to us sat the writer and photo for the San Diego Union Tribune. We over heard them talk about the drama between Paul Rodriguez, Carlos Mencia, and George Lopez. Ben is friends with Paul, and i was interested in hearing about it. At this time though, i was online double checking some things. I been Internet deprived for 2 days!! hahaha..
Heres the jiss of the conversation. There is some resentment from Paul Rodriguez seeing the stardom of George Lopez and Carlos Mencia. Here is Paul the originator of pretty much the material Carlos and George uses. The Mexican culture themed jokes. Paul expressed his hurt so you say for them. Carlos and George was contacted about Paul comments. Only Carlos responded, and said it was true. He doesn’t give enough credit to Paul. As for George, he didn’t comment or return any calls. I guess Carlos and George went on tour together, and there was drama with them. Hmm.. kinda makes me think what kind of person George Lopez is.
Chatted with them a little bit more. Ben and he talked mostly sports and such. I talked about television and such. The photog, i asked him about what was allowed when shooting and if they kicked you out or not. Good news, they allowed you to shoot during the whole show if you don’t get in other peoples way. Right on!! For Jon Stewart and Dave Chappelle, at least i get to watch the show even if i don’t have a seat.
Too bad that was going to be short lived, Nell calls me over and tells me Dave Chappelle people doesn’t want ANYONE to shoot any photos at all. I was screwed, if im not allowed to shoot in there, then there’s no way for me to get in without a ticket. I asked Nell to see what she can do.
Off to the casino floor... Oh... Before i left, i overheard a conversation saying that Dane was still asleep, told by the manager. It was almost 1pm, Dane you party party animal.
To the casino, was i going to gamble? I really doubt it. Saw the photog from the San Diego Union Tribune playing some blackjack. I just decided to watch and see how they go about playing. For a 15 dollar minimum per hand, and me being broke, having to pay for my notary seminar among other things. I fought every temptation to sit down and start hitting and doubling down.
I get this call from Yvette from Florida. Let me give the set up. I hit up Craig list the night before going into Vegas and seeing who was going to be down there for some Platonic hanging out. This one person hit me up saying her and her friend were going to be down there. Both age 30 so i was told. I didn’t mind, i wanted to see what was going on. They were hitting up a Real Estate convention at the Wynn casino and Hotel. They wanted to meet up at the Caesar Palace. Last night, they went to club Pure, kinda felt like they were trying to follow us and it made me laugh a little bit. Got a call, and they were in the Palace. I told them to meet us in front of Pure, so we could check them out. After a little double dutch trying to get them out in the open to size them up before anything. They were sitting at the slots and i noticed them. I quickly got off the phone and said screw it. They were doing the same thing we were doing, trying to see what’s up. However i knew they were trying to get a favor, favor to check out Dave Chappelle. Sucks for them. Dude sucks for me! I don’t even know how i was going to check out the show...
Ben hit up the bathroom and i chilled out to play some slots. I was starring at the machine for awhile. I said screw it and put in 20 bucks. Again still don’t know what i was doing and again so mindless. I did end up winning 2 dollars, well i think i lost like 8 and won 10. I kept on going and it went gone. So i can say, so far i lost 22 dollars. No worries...
Left to rest on up for the night. Hit up In n Out that was right across the street from our hotel. I didn’t get why.. but we parked at the hotel and walked on over. Don’t ask me.. Got a number 1 animal style both burger and fries. Ate it outside and it was cool.
Back to the hotel to rest. I wanted to check out the comedian award honoring Jerry Seinfeld and the Family Guy Live in Vegas. Ben didn’t want to and i was tired but screw it. Im trying to take in as much as i can while im here. Left on around 4:15 and called a cab downstairs. I waited for 20 mins and called again and they say they were busy. walking around outside some more, i noticed a cab at the Hampton inns across the street and walked on over there. Hopped on in and onward to Caesar palace.
Did the usual small talk. Got lotta information from her and man i was staring at the cab fare making sure i had enough to pay and to tip. The cab fare isn’t all that bad. 3.20 to start off and whatever cents after. The fare ended up being about 10 bucks.
Hopped out in front of the palace, and said thank you and pay and such. After i hopped out and closed the door. I friggin noticed i didnt have my sidekick. I had a friggin minor panic attack. I mean ive never lost it let alone any other phone. But man, the first time ive ever lose it, its in a cab in friggin Las Vegas!! Are you kidding me??? I walked back and when i turn around of course, there were 100 cabs that looked the same. My luck isnt it?? I walked and i think i saw the Van i was in. 1872.. When i kinda try to run to it, it drove off. I was sooo screwed.. I just said screw it for now and id deal with it later. Off to the Palace Ballroom.
Of course i had the phone in the corner of my mind. Went on my marry way. On the escalator i see Doug Benson of Best Week Ever. Asked him if Paul got a private table and played hold em or not. Doug told me does he even have money and i just laughed.
Went to the door where i was escorted in for Dane Cook. The man outside remembered me and let me in. I came back to the usual green room i was used to the night before. When i entered Anderson Cooper was chillin. He was the moderator to this thing. I guess it was a panel with Chris Rock, Robert Kline, Gary Sandaling, and Jerry Seinfeld. Behold, Gary was writing on the plush red seats while Chris and Jerry were chatting it up. I noticed another photographer and i just whipped out my camera and started shooting. Chris Rock turns to me and said, "Shoot him [pointing at Gary], comedic genius at work." I told him of course i will. I shot at Gary, and then of Jerry and what not. Behind them, i see this ice sculpture with sushi all around it. Did a few more shots and the photographer looked at me, and i shook his hand. He asked me, who are you shooting for. I told him LA Weekly. He quickly changed his demeanor and told me i should be back there. I was like, what the heck? Where was i suppose to shoot? You need to leave and blah blah. I was like are you kidding me? What a dick!!! I figured i wasn’t suppose to be back there, but cmon now.. haha..
Went back where i came from, and into the audience towards the back where the other photogs were. Stayed to shoot a little of the panel and ran to the Colosseum. Went towards the back way and i was allowed to enter and take the elevator. I was thinking, dude this is where Celine Dion enters and exits. Anyways.. i entered the dress room holding area and went up to the elevator. I was met with someone and hung out in the aisle way in front of the orchestra. I was shooting there. I had more things to worry about. Like my phone and what i was going to do. Good thing i had a lock on the phone, but that doesn’t mean much if its a code that is kinda pretty easy to crack. Only me and someone else knows for sure what the code is, again but still. If they guess it, they could read my emails, my contacts and charge up my phone bill.
I called T-Mobile to shut off my phone in which i did. However whatever made me ask, i asked. I asked what would happen to my contacts and emails. She told me that it would be lost once i reactivate my new sim card and phone. That freaked the hell of me. Those are really important to me, i have over 400 contacts and much more email. I can’t lose that because it would be a bitch to reenter. i do have my contacts sync with outlook on my computer, but it wasn’t updated. I thought that information was backed up on tmobile servers, cuz if you move your sim card to other sidekick. All your information is downloaded back to the phone. I told the lady to just reactivate my phone, i need those contacts. If the phone was lost, at least i can go online and print out my contacts. I also asked how much a new sidekick unit would be and she told me $379. ARE YOU KIDDING ME!! I paid full price for the one i lost and that was 350ish. Tmobile knows how to kick you when you are down don’t they. I barely just got my new software update for the phone... 2.3... It enhances the phones functionality and updates it. I haven’t even had a full day of trying this out without distractions. Man..
An usher overheard my conversation, and i explained it to him. Robert was his name and he was really cool. Seth McFarlane and Alex Borstein were performing. The whole point of the show was them doing the voices of the Family Guy cast. I guess they had a album out and just a bunch of songs with various voices. If you didn’t know Seth McFarlane is the creator and voiced of EVERYONE cept Lois, and the 2 kids. So he does Stewie, the dog, the dad, Quagmire and so on. Alex does Lois. The songs they were singing were really funny. Really sexually charge and it was much funnier in the form of the voices. I shot a few photos, kinda wanted to watch the whole show, however the phone thing still on my mind. Oh there was this bitch of an usher. I knew her rather large ass was staring at me before the show started. At one point, she came up to me and asked me were you escorted in by someone. My handler that was in front of me turned around and said its me.
Mind you, on my way to the Jerry thing and Family Guy i was calling and calling. At a point, i stopped because i figured if someone picked it up. They werent going to pick it up. Its a sidekick, pretty hot item. Very trendy for the Hollywood kids, but i noticed a lot more Treos. During my frantic calling, i got a call from someone from the club ICE. He got me VIP on the guest list. Too bad i don’t think the club was in any casino and pretty much was outside somewhere. After leaving the Family Guy thing, i called one more time and the cab driver picked up. So relieved!! I talked to her and decided to meet back at Caesars. I mean i needed a ride back to my hotel anyways. I met her at the Forum Shop entrance. I hung out down there until she came along. There was an oxygen bar there. I usually find them pretty stupid but for whatever reason. I wanted to try it out, i felt a little stressed and they even give you a massage too. Just starred at the bar, didn’t really end up doing it.
Eventually the cab driver came. I was right on the number 1872. Headed on back to the hotel. Talked to her some more, she told me she couldn’t figure out how to use my phone. Im just glad i got it back. Saved me the trouble and about 400 bucks i could use on William Rast clothing. Back to the hotel and got ready. The cab driver hooked me up with some vip passes to a few clubs and least got an option there. I also had her cell number, so i got myself a person cabby anytime im in Vegas. Screw calling for one they lag like mad.
Took a shower and off we go. Got to the Colosseum and went towards the back. We had to wait until someone took us to where we were going to shoot. Again at the aisle but it wasn’t bad. Robert was there and chatted a few. The allowance to shoot Jon Stewart was absurd. 1 min to shoot him. Are you kidding me? It not enough time to adjust to the lack of distance and light. Shot Jon and pictures came out like crap. What you going to do though? You have to listen to his people or you just going to be blacklisted or even kicked out.
Kris from what i remember was in charge. Ron was there also. We asked if we could watch after shooting and they allowed it. However they went to some empty seats at the top and we were allowed to go sit with them. Jon Stewart is a funny guy, i can never get enough of showing how the Bush Administration is just screwing the American people. Heres what i recall from it. Bush isn’t stupid, eating soap is stupid. Bush doesn’t give a crap. At least Clinton would spin it. Just thought that was funny good stuff..
I tried to see if i could pull the seat things with the publicist people for Dave Chappelle. Got shut down sooo bad!! Oh well.. I tried and the photog front he New York Times tried too.
Headed to the front to wait for Ben. Talked to the writer at the New York Times. Saw him backstage at Dane and wondered what type of stuff he asked him. He informed me at Dane is doing Saturday Night Live December 3rd. Wow, this is Dane year!! Most selling comedy album in a quarter century. Now thing. Dane deserves everything that comes to him. he effin rocks. I still remember the first time i saw him on Jimmy Kimmel 2 years ago. Every year hes gotten bigger, more famous.. Its just amazing.
After a little more conversing, Ben calls me over where hes chillin with Tom Leykis. I go over and join the conversation huddle and introduce myself to Tom. We decided to get a few drinks. However i noticed a girl walking by with another chick. I get a good glimpse at her face and its effin CASEY FROM LAGUNA BEACH!!... It took me a second to process and i yell out her name but she didnt turn around. That kinda cemented that Talan and Kimberly Stewart are in town to elope. Still who knows? Casey is a shortie however still pretty cute.
Off to the bar to hang out with Tom and his producer, Gary. Got a few shots of Tequila and hung out and chatted. People were coming up asking for pictures and such. More chatting and told us a few things about his going ons. Something that has to stay in Vegas and cant be repeated over here.
Dave Chappelle show was coming up. I saw him and his entourage taking the back entrance into the Colosseum. Hes a tall tall guy! Left Tom and Gary headed off to the entrance. Tried to figure any way to get in for me. Ben left on inside and i hung out. Saw Jeff Ross with a camera in front of him. When i thought they weren’t rolling tape, i went up to him and asked him how his show and q&a for Patriot Act were. He said it was good and i just chilled out. I heard Ben yell my name from inside. I guess the scanning ticking things went down. I took Ben's ticket and tried to get in. The metal detector went off because i still had my camera. I just told the chick im not using it and flashed my ticket and my media badge. She let me in and i was amazed!! Getting through the doors is one thing, finding a seat that wont eventually be taken was another.
I took the elevator up to where i sat before for Jon Stewart and took a seat at the end. I was just hoping no one was going to come and take the seat, therefore i might get kicked out for not having a ticket. I just sat there on edge, at any minute someone could come and claim their seat and i would have been out of there. Two guys sat next to me, and i thought i doubt anyone would buy a single ticket. Usually people at least come in pairs. There was an open seat behind me too. So i was kinda in the clear. Too bad i didn’t feel that way, every time the door opened, i looked back and my heart stopped.
The first comedian went up. Don’t remember his name, all i remember was that he was half Mexican and French or something?? I didnt laugh at any of his jokes. Not because he wasn’t funny, just its kinda hard to lose your inhibitions and laugh when you dont know if you were going to get your butt kicked out.
That comedian was done, and Dave came on. At this point i loosen up a little and started to enjoy Dave. I couldn’t believe i was in, at a sold out show. Dave was funny as heck!! Not as racially charged like usual but he sure was hella sexual. Funny as you would expect, made comments of his departure from his show on Comedy central and the 50 million dollar offer. Loved the show.. I had my camera on me, and i was thinking. Should i pull out my camera and take a few pics?? Didnt do it, but was tempted!!
The show was done and on our way out. Went on over to Pure and tried to see if i could get in. The only reason why i wanted to go there was that Jeremy Piven was hosting there. One of my favorite actors and on one of my favorite shows. I wanted to check him out and hang out. I hit up HBO to see if they could get me in and they didn’t know anything about the event. Got there and it was a mad mad line. Talked to one of the security guys and i guess there was a guest dj, guest host (Piven) and UFC was having their afterparty there. UFC had a match at the MGM. No luck getting in there. I was to the point where i wanted to leave Vegas anyways... Just left back to the hotel, got some food at Jack in the Box and was outties!
3 days was pretty fun. One for the record books, but i can to an epiphany. Las Vegas is known as the City of Sin right? However everything seemed to work out for me. VIP into the Earth to America After party at Pure, meeting and hanging with Dane Cook, saw Dave Chappelle perform were the main things. Much much more happen. Like in the City of Sin, things worked out and went my way. I don’t know... Maybe this is my city and in a city of Sin i am at home?? Or just luck?? But you all know what i think about luck. It only happens when opportunity meets preparation. So i guess i was prepared for this... Until next year!!
In the city of Sin, i am a little too lucky and way way too comfortable and in my element
Posted by Anh at 3:50 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 21, 2005
Vegas Trip Day 2
Friday November 18th, 2005M
Day 2... Well actually kinda day 1 since I didn’t get into Vegas yesterday until 2ish or 3 or whatever. The top shows we had today were Dane Cook and George Lopez. Last night, didn’t go to bed until 4ish i think.
Got up around 10ish and got ready. OH!! Last night at Pure, i met a correspondent from People Magazine. He told me that Kimberly Stewart was rumored to come into Vegas at Midnight to elope. I remember reading something about her and Ryan Cabrera hanging out. But last night i saw a ticker on E! that she was engaged to Talan from Laguna Beach. They only have been dating for 2 weeks. CRAZY!! Talan has always been a pimp since he dated Lindsay Lohan and now marrying Kimberly Stewart. That’s pretty tight if you ask me.
Headed off to the Caesar Palace to drive and to walk the strip from there. I wanted to hit up Walgreen first because i had a little problem with something. I needed to have it handled cuz i mean im in Vegas and if you don’t have it handled.. Then the trip might turn out to be a bad one. Yes, very vague, gotta keep yall guessing. .
Walked there and bought a few things. Left outside and was bummed rush by a lady to take a small survey. After that, headed on over down the strip more to find something to eat. That survey lady recommended to check out the buffet at Excalibur or Mandalay Bay.. I say Mandalay Bay because ive been there for lunch and its pretty good. Its rated one of the best if not the best buffet in Vegas.
Walked on over there and hopped on the monorail at Excalibur that takes you into Mandalay Bay. Off to the buffet. Walked into the bay and it just gets me a little sadden that i was suppose to be here to see Josh Groban in March. I felt the vibe i should have been here for it. Oh well. Paid 16 bucks for the buffet, which was pretty expensive but it was too big of a deal. The food here is top of the line. You can’t get any better for gourmet food at this price, and for a dang buffet. I enjoyed it, not as much as i could cuz Ben was tired and wanted to go back and we still had the trek back to Caesars Palace.
Trekked it on back, and it seemed a lot quicker... Decided to hit up the media room to see if we could request tickets for other shows. Made our request for all the shows we could. Looks like Jamie Kennedy was request interviews with the comedians for his documentary. Hes a pretty talk guy and a slow talker. Put our request in and headed back to the crappy hell hole we were staying in. We passed by Mesa Grill and saw Bobby Flay hanging inside the restaurant speaking to a group of people.
Ben took his nap, and i just chilled to finish up my last post. Its really hard to keep entries updated on some sort of hour bases with a cell phone in Vegas. I mean the having time factor plays apart, and i rather some sort of Internet connection and hope on my laptop. I know i could hit up the media room and use there Internet access but im kinda stuck with whatever Ben wants to do since he was driving.
Chilled out until 6ish, got ready and headed off to the Palace to see Dane Cook and George Lopez. It was still early, so just hung out at a bar. Talked it up with the bartender. Got me a pineapple and Malibu since I didn’t really want to get buzzed or whatever. Ordered a slice of pizza and it looks like Ray ordered some pizza on the otherside of the place. Its crazy to see all these comedians all over the place in a central place.
Met this dude Vince, who was here to check out the shows. He needed to find out where the Palace Ballroom was, where Dane Cook was performing. We headed on over there and took the really high escalator to the third floor. The doors seemed to be opened for people to come in and take seats. I tried to find whoever was handling the escorting in for photographers and no one was there. Left on back to the media room, and got some help. They escorted us into the backstage area. The escort chick left us and we were free to walk around. I don’t think we were suppose to be back there but after going through a few curtains and seeing the back of the stage. We were in the green room.
The green room wasnt really green. It was pretty red, it had a red tint and the plush round booth looking seats were red. They had a HBO/AEG backdrop for the usual photo and electronic television cameras. I noticed i was the only photographer back there and quickly observed that the other photographers were in the audience shooting out there. Whatever, no one was going to kick us out and this was my chance to meet Dane officially. I saw Dane come from where i came and i saw him, i gave him the Super Finger and he gave it back and we shook hands. Just hung out some more, and took in the green room. I noticed someone that looked familiar, but i thought he was with the camera crew. He was actually opening up for Dane. Robert Kelly was his name, we chatted a few and talked some. He was cracking the jokes and pulled one on me. Im not going to say what he said, but lets just say its what i went to Walgreen earlier for.
Robert performed on stage, and Dane came out for interviews. I took some photos of him. I really wanted to interview him, but i wasn’t really prepared and didn’t have my iPod with the mic. Just took the photos and watched Robert on the monitor.
Dane went on afterwards and of course with rockstar status. The green room filled up with people who paid 1500 for the platinum package for the festival. If you asked me, they were hell rude bumping into me without saying excuse me or even a sorry. Whatever. Grubbed on the pizza they had out and they had some salsa. Drank down the beer and just chilled out, watched the monitor and see Dane performed. The jokes he choose wasn’t as funny as i thought he could have been that night. He did lotta jokes from his comedy albums that he has released. I really wanted to hear jokes where I didn’t know the punch line due to hearing it 100 times over. He did the movie one, which is hilarious. Other than that, it was just pretty rad hanging backstage with him and talking to him.
After the show, he came back to the green room where the people back there jumped him. I just stayed back and took it in. It died down a little bit and Ben wanted to take a picture with him. He went up and talked to him, i whipped out my camera and took it. I counted it off 1, 2, 3 with my left hand and took it. Dane came up to me after and said how he liked the count off. We gave each other the brother hug, and i told him, no cheese, no cheese man. Its a joke he has done before at a show at the Laugh Factory i saw him at. He then said, awww man!! I should have done that joke, lets go back on stage and do it. He held out his hand like what you would do when you go on a stroll up to grandma’s house. I said lets go!! Then that was it, i said take care and went on the marry way. Walked out tot he exit and i didn’t want to leave. I had this high of meeting Dane and wanted to just be in his presence. Ben left to go see George Lopez. I could care less, saw him once and its all good.
Went back to the green room and hung out. I wanted to give Dane my car or even his manager my card. He seemed quite busy, and they both were huddled away in the corner to chat. I decided to leave. Headed off to the Colosseum back area to see if they still were allowing photographers. Which they didn’t since it was about an hour into the performance. The door security told me that he was almost done, so i chilled at the steps in front of the Colosseum. Sat there for a effin hour!! That thing didn’t get out until 1ish. Man i was like, I could be doing other things and having adventures on my own somewhere. But I didn’t have the car, a room key and Ben didn’t have a cell. So im screwed!!
Finally the show let out, and tried to figure out what to do. I resisted hitting the tables or any sort of gambling. Checked out Pure, and lines like crazy. Screw that.. Sat down at a video slots. Didnt even know what the heck was going on. I came to the conclusion that junk is just mindless pressing of buttons and losing your money. Good thing it was only a penny slot, and i lost 1.98 dollars, cashed out with 2 cents. There was this chick sitting next to us. She struck up a conversation with Ben and i didn’t want to be affiliated with her in anyway. Her ass acted like she had my number and knew things about me. That annoyed me so bad, but i just ignored her. Noticed Tom Leykis at the bar talking to some chick, and took a few photos of her.
I didnt know what mine and Ben signal was to abort, but we eventually left that wack chick and her friend and took a walk around the Forum shops down to the end. Rather weird but i would also think a little scary, saw these 2 chicks passed out. They were sleeping at what looked like a aquarium at the end of the forum shops. Kinda odd, but then again this is Vegas. Looking at the shops, man i really wish i had some money to throw away!
After that, it was around 2:30 and left back to the hotel. Unwind, and I didn’t fall asleep until four. One more day to go, lets make it a good one. I missed Bill Maher which i wanted to see, and a few others.
Me and Dane have somewhat of an inside joke!!!
Posted by Anh at 2:58 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 17, 2005
Vegas Trip Day 1
4:36PM Update
Here I am in the the shitty Golden Palm hotel and casino. Winding down and giving an update.
Went to bed effin at 4 still trying to catch up on the updates to my site, as you can see. Anyways. I didn't leave the house until 10:30. From still updating, and packing. Hit up bank, gas station, and Denny’s.
Got up on the road at 11:30ish and made it to Vegas in no time. We got into Vegas around 2. The drive was whatever, and was listening to Dane Cook's comedy albums all the way down which made it nothing, since I didn't drive.
Headed straight to the Caesar palace, and tried to find the press check in area. It was in the Palace Tower on the Emperor's floor. Took awhile to get there but I was taking it all in.
Eventually found the Salon I place, and picked up our credentials. Got ours to badges and good thing we got our Earth to America credentials. Problem is we didn't get all the shows we want, only Dane Cook and George Lopez. I mean there were other tickets but whatever...
So we left to figured out we had to regroup and figure some things. Some dude came up and started talking to us and was hella cool. Talked about how he got into the rehearsals of the Earth to America event. He left to play the piano and was pretty cool. Ben and I was still figuring things out and stuff.
We headed off to the piano to chat some more and he told us he was singing with some famous singer. He didn't know who it was, but she had 2 security guards with her. They sang Midnight Train to Georgia, and I instantly thought Gladys Knight but didn't say anything. Talked about the hot after party at Pure, the club in Caesar palace.. Anyways...
Headed off to the Colosseum to see the rehearsals, wasn't too sure if we were permitted to go in but we tried and got in. And took a seat and watched away. Nothing really was going on besides the set being set up and Larry David chilling around. I think he is executive producing this event since his wife Laurie is the one who created this Comedy Festival. Sat and chill for a few minutes and work on our attack plan for the night and rest of the festival.
Headed on out and saw someone who looked familiar and someone yelled out Tom. I figured it was Tom Hanks. He was barely 3 feet away from me and I saw his face and hair. His face looks really young, botox perhaps? His hair was longer, and his clothes were really trendy and in style. The blazer jeans combo. He looked really good if you asked me. REAL good. I wanted to take a photo with my cell but im trying to not be a dumb fan or an intrusive journalist.
Left the place and went to our hotel. Dude its hot top of the line, but its not that ghetto. Im really whatevers when it comes to it, I had worse in Manhattan. Where the room smell nothing but smoking odors everywhere! Anyways...
Just trying to prepare for the green carpet for the Earth to America event and then from there. Don't know.. Trying to get into the the Pure night club. I wanna party it up with Leo Dicapro, who I was told was staying at the Hard Rock in the bowling room. Until later.. Imma update when I have down time, and add pictures when I get home. If you want pictures, imma take as much with my cell phone and you can see the photos on the right panel...
11:11PM
Im typing here sitting in club Pure in the Caesar Palace which is connect to the Pussycat Dolls Lounge. Im just chillin out grubbing on the extravagant buffet food where I turned, and said something I heard on an episode of Entourage where Jeremy Piven's character told the guys, "Today we eat like kings..." I didn't look much at the food but right now im hanging out in the vip section of the club with Faith Hill and Toby Keith awhile Larry David is walking around as is Jeffery Ross.
Let me explain a little of the ambience of the club. You walk in and they have a pad that lights up until the end of the hall. Then you turn left and then a right. A little down you see a doorway which I assume is the entrance to the Pussycat doll lounge! Just bars on each side when you finally get inside and straight ahead is the vip section where its somewhat like a canopy with a similar area towards the left.. Hard to explain but you just have to be here... Anyways. Wrapping up from before... But I think ill do that later.. Hahaha I gotta drink and mingle...
2:37AM
Wow... Im sooo tired and blah right now.. But imma update so I can get it over with.
From the hotel, left to the Caesars Palace. Headed off to the Colosseum to see if we could get access to the Earth to America event. Oh before I get into that, Celine Dion has her own store there. I mean I know she performs there a lot but man oh man a store with nothing but her merchandise. Crazy!
Anyways, then decided to go to see how Pure was looking. We passed by the Mesa Grill owned by Food Network's Bobby Flay. I saw the special they aired about the whole process of conception and having the actual restaurant. It was pretty cool. The vibe of the place is really cool, the open huge bbq on the second floor wasn't operating. I wanted to see it.
Nothing was really cracking at Pure besides backdrop red carpet set ups. I noticed it right next to the Pussycat Doll Lounge, well pretty much connected. That's so rad!
Back to check in to the Earth to America event. Checked in and headed off to the press tent. Before you headed to the tent there was a little condiments area. Filled with the usual coffee, tea, water, and soda. They had a fruit plate, these little sandwiches, and assortment of cookies. I assumed Wolfgang Punk catered this cuz the water had his signature on it. Those sandwiches were pretty good, mini gourmet ones. Yum!
Check out the tent. First section had a mic and the backdrop with Earth to America/TBS on it for reporters and news crew. Next, photographers after a small section with a tv. Then the one on one booths, saw Entertainment Tonight, CNN, E!, Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, Extra, and the Insider. Pretty cool to see the set up. Since there wasn't much going on until 8ish. Left on to grab something to eat.
Off to Mesa Grill, I wanted to try the food there. I heard Bobby Flay is famous for his Crab cakes..
The wait there was crazy. For 2 people it would be until 8:30. Screw that, we waited around the bar to grab a seat. You had to jock for position to get one. After a short while, someone was leaving.
Ordered a vodka tonic for me and a Sierra Nevada for Ben. Looked at the menu and wasn't too sure if I was thinking the right thing about the crabcakes. It was the tamales. Tiger shrimp and blue corn. Yum!
So chillin and I swear the dude was staring man at me but whatever. The food came out quick is wonderful. Grubbed on the food and it was amazing! It better be for 15 bucks where normal tamales are like .99 cents at Albertsons. Finished that up and headed out. I would love to check out more but im keeping the expenses to a minimum. When I got the check, I made a funny face and the guy staring at me made a comment and laugh. I started joking with him and was being whatever. I didn't mind the total it was expected.
Off to the tent. Nothing was going on still. Celebrities were making there way to the backstage. Larry David, Bill Maher, Steve Martin, Cedric the Entertainer, Jeffery Mandor, and a few others.
We started a conversation with one of the security guards. Found out his first gig is security at Light in Bellagio. Another club. At least we had a backup plan if didn't scam our way into Pure.
Saw Pat O’Brien formally of Access Hollywood and now the Insider. I introduced myself to him and say hi. He's looking kinda bad, really old and what not. However I wish I could interview like him. Such a genius at what he does even though he a perverted dude and a rehabbing alcoholic.
It was pretty rad. I saw these correspondents I always see on tv on a daily bases. Samantha Harris from E!, Tony Potts from Access Hollywood, and Pat O’Brien from the Insider. Its weird to think these guys are my colleagues. I mean we basically do the same thing but they are just wider known to the public and the celebrities.
People that came in the tent were Larry David, Tom Hanks, Cedric, Jason Alexander, Julia Lewis Dryfus, and many others. A random appearance by Robin Leach. He's looking old and pretty big. He was really friendly with a photographer who has a HUGE rack. I talked to her a little didn't bother to catch her name though. She kept on commenting how her boobs might get in the way. Well they kinda do when they are like 36E and maybe even bigger.
At a point we decided to walk through the one on one booths and chill on the other side. We noticed a man putting wristband on a handful of people and stamping their hand after checking their ids. We just got in line and tried to look we belong their. Fake it to make it... Ben went up, showed his id. The man proceeded to stamping his hand and put the wristband on. I hear Ben asked him if this was for Pure, and he said yes and for the vip section. In my head, I was thinking I hope this works, I hope this works. Stay calm. My turn was up and I introduced myself, and his name was Tom. Told him thank you after getting the stamp and wristband. And just walked off and tried to stay calm. We were in! The Afterparty of the year! At the hottest club! Yes!
Hung out with Tony and Samantha during down time watching the show. The show was funny here and there. Don't wanna comment on the show because it got interrupted so many times. The funny shit I recalled was only Triumph and Will Ferrell's Impersonation of George W. Bush.
Left the tent area around 1030 since the show was winding down. Headed back to the car and put away my camera and got ready for the party. Before we headed to the car, we walked to Pure to see how it was. Ray Romano was right in front of me trying to get in. On the way back, the bar Shadow, was bumping! They were playing some Justin Timberlake, and it got me so ampd! The shadow dancers behind the bar was shaking their booties. The screen had a pinkish purple vibe with the dancers projected on it. Hot! When I came back from dropping off the camera they were playing Britney Spears and it made me laugh. Not going to say why, its not as straight forward as obvious as you maybe think...
Into the club, flashed the vip status and they know what's up.
Walked in and the place is nice. Im horrible at discribing so im not going tell how the club is. Come to Vegas and find out. If you stay at Caesars you get in free unless its a private event like tonight.
They had food that was sooo friggin like high glass. Before the food, we headed off to the bathroom where we struck up a conversation with the attendant. George Wallace was up in there. I wanted to take a hit of some cologne. They didn't have any familiar ones and the Dolce and Gabbana caught my eye. That stuff smells sooo good.
The food, I saw a guy look at the food and I said something to him. Something that recalled from Entourage on an episode where Jermery Priven chracters daughter was having her Batz Mizva. He said, "Tonight boys, we eat like kings" and yes we did. We found it late but there were so much tiger shrimp for your guiltiness pleasure. Where else to do it? But Sin City. Open bar all over the club. Got a few pineapple rum, vodka tonics and this water. Voss, this artesian water from Norway. I wanted to check it out. Its not as good as Fiji.
Some people who were mingling around the place. Larry David, Bill Maher, Tom Leykis, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Ariana Huffinton, Bobby Flay, Ray Romano, Ben Stiller, David Copperfield, Paul Schier, Doug Benson, and Aziz from Best Week Ever, one of the Blue Man Group, Dave Attel, Jeffery Ross, and lotta more i cant remember.
We chatted it up. Talked to Jeffery Ross who is friends with Paul Rodriguez, who Ben is cool with. Hung with the Best Week Ever guys, gonna try to get a private poker game with them, maybe check them out in la when they do a commentary for R.Kelly's trapped in the closet. Doug Benson came up and I guess he was at a poker tournament.
Just chatted it up all over the place and just chilled it out.. Didn't leave until 2ish. The club was a really nice place and I guess its rated number 1 from E! If that really means anything. That's it for now, not really through due to me being busy..
Trying my best to keep the update while being drunk. Haha
Posted by Anh at 5:28 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
A Little Less Conversation, a little more action!
Wednesday November 16th, 2005
Today... Nothing much of anything besides leading up to my vegas trip tomorrow. First trip just going without family and of legal drinking and gambling age. Its for work in a since of course, but lotta fun though. That's the beauty of my job. Soo much fun!
Why am I going? Ill be shooting the Comedy Festival in Vegas. The first one of many I hope. Just a 3 day festival of celebrating comedy with performances from Dane Cook. George Lopez, Jerry Sienfied, Dave Chappelle, Best Week Ever people, and so much more. Its just going to be loads of fun!
They are televising the Earth to America show. To the best of my knowlegde from some online info and tv commericals, just a bunch a comedians bringing awareness to global warming. Yes many comedians are librerals, get over it. Hahaha...
Oh! So I sealed the deal with illusionblue. A computer consultanting firm headed by an old classmate back in middle school. I was surfing craigslist a few weeks ago and saw an ad for technicians. Checked it out last week, met with the CEO who I knew back in the middle school days as the goto computer guy. it was pretty cool. Here's the catch, in a since I work for them but work for myself. Im renting out the desk, computer and other office amendities for $150 bucks a month. Im sure you are asking why are you paying to work. In my mind I am considering this an investment. I will be sent out on trouble tickets where I do make a good amount an hour plus mileage but the true benefit is another desk, office, computer to go to. The experience I will recieve and can be added to my resume, and dude he has every damn microsoft title among others.. Here's the thing, legally. I need a clean install of windows xp pro, I have the bootleg of windows 2k pro and it doesn't like me. So 150 is a small amount to pay for things invested that will be beneficial in the long run.
Anyways back to today. Went to class, and students are dropping like flies. Its funny, not the class is hard, just people not showing up. I spend most of my time trying to finish off reading books I haven't yet and im currently on michael moores dude where's my country. WOW!. I have farenhiet 9/11 and that got me so angry, and reading into this. The movie was soo watered down compared to the book. Just all the bullshit and lies, makes me mad. However, I do take it with a grain of salt, just bc its written doesn't make it true. Moore does quote other sources which make it a powerful written word. Just the lies, excuses, and just making the american people look a damn fool. I do admit, I supported the war, watching the news, hearing bush, so on and so forth I was for the war, I was for bush, I affliated with the republicians. I ordered the freedom fries. But cmon! Still no sign of weapons of mass distruction. Yes saddam is evil but america has a long reputation for putting dictators to power and supporting them. France supported us since the war of independance, and first to come after septeber 11th. Screw it, im not going to get into it. I do support the rich getting richer, I mean my dad worked his ass off to be where we are. If I stood back as an outsider looking in, we, when I say we, I mean my brothers and mom. Outsider looking in, I have it fuckin made. Beautiful house, food on the table, a working car, and all these luxuries. I take it for granted because im a ungrateful son, anyways more rambling. Yes rich getting richer... But I do have a heart. Yes I know due to popular belief I do have one. Im just not a fan of lies and deciet, a war based on it with american and innocent causalities. I have ben called liberal as an insult, like being on the school yard and caling little Billy fag or as adults whatever insult you can use. I do get angry when called that, but I shouldn't. It means I have a mind of my own to question things and not go with certain ideals because you belong to whatever party. I know someone where they wouldn't even watch a movie, day after tomorrow, because it was propaganda ridden about global warming. Give me a break. I watched it purely based on entertainment, I didn't believe it could happen and I didn't come away thinking dude, I better start hugging trees or the earth is going to freeze over and dennis quiad is going to have to travel from washington to new york to have jake gheyyhal. Ok enough of that.... Watch bill maher, my views are generally paralell to his.
Class finished. Went home. Tried to finish up some errands. Oh so I looked through this folder. Folder that held all my notes, iternary, info sheets and other stuff for my vegas tripped I planned out last march. Where I was going to see josh groban at manadalay bay. Looking through this, got me upset, then sad, then annoyed, lastly relieved. I had this whole trip planned for someone I cared about deeply, eehh unno. Im just happy its over, that feeling you have in your chest that you feel would never go away. However I do believe my plans will be carried out sometime in the future. You can only hope, but what I've said before.. Hope is just blind faith. But I do wonder.....
Hung out at home a little. Left to school to drop classes... Don't ask... Deposited a check at the bank, headed to the victoria gardens to buy another memory card for the fesitval just in case I couldn't dump the photos I take to my laptop. Decided not to, im pretty much a regular at ritz camera. One of the employees, jennifer. Such a cutie, has this punk rock vibe to her but really plain jane. Its really attractive to me. And I recalled her going to high school with me and I just came up with an apifany. In my mind, I recall this like rockablity girl in high school who wore this red dress, something you see back in the day, like 50s. Omg I think its her, she dated this guy. It HAS to be her, I keep seeing this lady in red in my head and it has to be her! Im soo going to ask her next I see her... Oh guys, if you know what a microdrive is, they are coming out with a better model, so make sure you get that instead of the older one.
Alex and derek were at the mall, so I met up with them for 5 minutes. They headed off to Active and I took derek with me because I was heading that way to Leslies house. Went there and left to Pei Wei to get dinner for me and her.
This place totally rules! Best "fast food" chinese food! They actually cook the stuf! Got me orange peel beef with brown rice and Leslie got the Spicy korean chicken with brown rice.
Off to house to hang a little. Oh, Ben hit me up at 7ish when I was at Ritz head over to my house. He was staying over since im right off the 15 freeway to Vegas and we were leaving in the morning.
So I still with Leslie for like 10 mins and I get a call and Ben is over already. It was barely an hour that past and I was figuring 30 more mins. Rushed on home and just chilled out. Went over a few things and yeahh.. I still gotta pack... We headed off to give a tour of my little town. Looks like Johnny Rockets is going to serve breakfast soon.. I wanna how that's going to be like...
Its 3.. And im trying to finish up this entry along with the last 3 you see and update the featured albums, Fort Minor and Michael Buble, before I get to Vegas for your pleasure! Hopefully I will, and hopefully I can blog while im over there with daily updates... If I don't, im either being robbed at the tables, pissed drunk peeing in the belliegio lake, or maybe, just maybe on a hotstreak. Wish me luck.. Don't forget, that's when preparation meets oppotunity. My money is prepped and my butt is opputune on that chair.
Things ill be saying.. HIT ME!!! & ALL IN!!!
Posted by Anh at 9:31 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Welcome to Jamrock!!
Friday November 6th, 2005
After the portable media expo... Next Damian Marley concert... Decided to take Leslie since she wanted to see him and nobody else did. My tickets were sent to me and I hope they had to my house or I would have been screwed.
Got home from the conference and there was the fedex envelope.
Anyways got ready... And headed over to Leslies house. And off on our way. She made a comment that I don't notice when her hair is different or something. I mean give me a break, if it looks nice it looks nice. Depending on the relationship, I'd most likely tell you when its mad. I prolly do make a mental note, but unno. I pay attention more to the 20th and 1st letter of the alphabet. Hahaha.. Sorry... Im a guy..
Got there in good time. About 50 mins. When I drove in the road leading to downtown Disney, Disneyland and California adventure. I got this nosgtala. Its Disneyland, happiest place on Earth and I do believe that to be true. I went to Walt Disney World when I was younger and I still remember things and the experience. It was amazing. I kinda dream for my honeymoon to be there or just someone I really enjoy their company to go.
Ok lets set it up. Leslie ALWAYS leaves my car door open for no reason. My car, 13 year old Toyota Camry with an effed up alarm system and a key that doesn't open the car door. You combined them together? A car when the alarm is set and then the door closes, alarm key will not open. Pretty much locked out of my car. Nice huh? I was sooo pissed, I don't have AAA and im already here to take photos and review the show. I didn't want to go to the concert and worry about the car. So I tried to open the car with the key. No avail, I did it for so long a blister formed on my forefinger. I sometime leave the backseats unlock so if it would happen, I can crawl through and open the backdoor. Oh, yes this has happened before for years now but not often though. I open the truck and nope, nothing. I punched at the seats and even jumped in and kicked it. Nada. A Disney bike cop rode by once, and 10 mins later again and asked if we needed help. Sure did. He called someone in, I signed a waiver and off we went. Took 15 mins and before the bike dude arrived, I was deciding if I was going to go home after I get into my car, I was sooo heated.
Car eventually opened and we went on our marry way to the House of Blues. I haven't been to Downtown Disney since the summer I graduated from high school. It looks soo cool and busy. The house of blues and Disneyland was sold out, so you can imagine the crowds. Headed off to the ticket window to pick up my photo pass, had to sign 2 releases and the weird thing. They gave me 2 more tickets. I was like uhh ok. I don't need these. I noticed someone heard me. Walked over to the line to get a wristband and searched. The dude that heard me wanted to buy the ticket, I told him 15 but he really wanted to see Damian, and gave me 20.
Headed on upstairs and I had to hit up the bathroom. Leslie led the way, which seemed really mazy. Passed the coat check and made it. When I was done, I had to make my way downstairs. I saw the stairs and tried to go down and everyone was just standing around. I got up on this guy and tried to make my way down. He was being all stupid and said where you going. I told him I was press and had to go down and he didn't say anything. Some chick next to me told me I could take the elevator. Man that guy thought he was all hard, I was gonna cuss him out but whatever. He could go downstairs because it overpacked. Effin loser.
Got down, well the elevator was guard by a big dude but he knew what was up when I flashed my photo pass. Dude can it get anymore crowded? Made it through the sea of people and got in front of the barricades. WOW. This is how you are supposed to do it. They had barricades where it was secured against the stage so you cannot push them forward and they have security chilling there. Really the Sunset Strip needs to a learn a little something from Anaheim.
Talked to a few people in the front who wanted photos. The show started kinda late, I say around 9:30 where it was suppose to start 9. There was another photographer there with me who was pretty cool. When we were taking pictures, he had to use his flash because it was way dark. Everytime I finished taking a picture and looked his way, his flash went off and got me hella blinded.
The stage, said Welcome to Jamaica with the aica taking off saying rock, so it said Welcome to Jamrock. The lighting was soo horrible that it was hard to take pictures. After the third song, I just left to the side and hung out at the bar. I was watching the rest of the concert on the monitor because there was no way in hell I was going to move to another location to watch the show… It was chill hanging at the bar, but its all good. I cant really tell you what songs we played, I know most of them was on his latest album, it was tight hearing it live, and the house was just crazy!!
Pass over that duby!! jk
Posted by Anh at 9:26 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Im a nerdy as they come, but so much cooler!!
November 18th, 2005
Portable Media Expo and Podcasting conference day is here. I’ve been receiving lots and lots of releases and requests from the exhibiters for a few weeks now to visit the booths. I didnt really plan on doing much on this event, however when i discovered Leo Laporte was the first keynote speaker. I had to go.
I can pretty say i grew up with him in my technology peak. I remember seeing Tech TV for the first time when i visited my uncle in Jersey and turned it on and saw the Screen Savers on Tech TV with Patrick Norton. I was sooo sucked, all the nerdy stuff i understood. I was disappointed when i got back home and didn’t have the channel. Years later, it finally got on Adelphia and yes. Hooked. However ever since Comcast, which in turn G4 bought and made it G4TECHTV. I went down hill, in a nut shell the network totally sucks now, and they dropped the TechTV, and now is only G4. Video game TV, whatever. I am bitter because some of my favorite television personalities, Leo Laporte, Patrick Norton, Kevin Rose weren’t on tv as much. I mean Kevin Rose still carried on The Screen Savers for awhile but he hightailed it out of there. The show change to Attack of the Show, they now have lame subjects and yeah. They even had a stint where the callers who called in were set up and were G4 employees calling. ANYWAY!! I am rambling. Leo, Patrick, Kevin among other TechTv alumni starting doing Podcasts.
If you didn’t know, Podcasts are basically a radio show in a since put online for you to download and listen on your computer and/or iPod. Subjects are various, name it and you will find it. Especially with the latest version of iTunes, 4.9, it makes them more readily available and showcase and puts them on the fore front. Still not catching a huge audience and with studies, 80 percent of podcasters and listeners are of the male gender, and in the 30-44 age range. As podcasting becomes more popular, it will be more known to the masses.
For myself, i listen to the tech podcasts, mainly this week in tech with Leo Laporte, Patrick Norton, Kevin Rose, Robert Hurand, Roger Chang, and many more. Each week is differnt as the speakers, but its fun to listen to. I started listening to this from day one, and just love to hear the guys speak on subjects i was used to hearing from these guys. Another tech podcast, would be Kevin Rose and Alex Albrecht Diggnation. Digg.com is a social bookmarking website, dealing mainly of tech sorts. Diggers digg stories, the popular ones hit the home page for all to the read. Kevin and Alex each week review and talk about a handful of the top stories. Very fun to listen to. Other ones, Tips from the Top floor about Photography, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Roger and Ebert, and lately One Tree Hill Peytons. Even Josh Groban got in the podcasting on his members only club Friends of Josh Groban.
Wow,i am getting way into this and need to just talk more. I totally missed Leo Laportes Key Note since i couldn’t wake up for it at 8. I ws up way way too late the night before. I made it to the Ontario Convention Center at 11 when i finally woke up and got ready. Right when i entered the convention center, i see Alex Albrecht. I didn’t know why really he was there, then again he does have a podcast. I just found it so cool. I was thinking, like when i see him, my geeky side comes up and i do get instead of starstruck, i get nerd struck. I am more excited seeing my geek idols persay, but if i see another celeb, i could careless. i entered the hall, and picked up my badge.
Walked up and down the place. It not what i am used to. I am used to the massive scales of CES and Comic Con, that this was pretty tamed. I say maybe over 30 exhibiters were there. i just briefly walked up and down. I headed off to the Press Room to see what it was all about. Nothing too much. Had the usual coffees, and such. Just picked up a water and headed back out. Did some more walking around, checked out the schedule to see what conferences i wanted to check out. Off to the press room once again. this time they were serving lunch. Samwiches!! Picked a table, got some food and hung out. While hanging out and reading through the program booklet, i hear a familar voice and someone yell out Leo!
Another nerdstuck moment.. sorry. More and more he’s just so intelligent and his vast knowledge is amazing. On an episode of systm, Kevin Rose checks out Leo's podcasting equipment, i didn’t know but he has years of experience in radio and more in computers. Anyways, i couldn’t help but looking back and seeing him, chatting and so on. He was getting interviews from someone there by a videocamera, i hung out and just listened to him talk. I missed the Keynote and i had to just stand there in awe and listen. Such a nerdy moment!
Brief and headed off to the key note.. Just talked about yahoo podcasting service, looks like they are jumping on the podcasting little red wagon. I say that because its not that big yet.. HAHA.. Then ran off to the conference entitled Secrets of iPod and Itunes with Leo Laporte, Paul Griffin, Chris Breen, and Dan Frakes. Again I was here to see Leo talk, and even Paul. Paul Griffin is the head of Griffin Technology where you get the iTalk and iTrip. The conferenece was prettty basic and fun and all i wanted to do was hear the guy. I wish i brought my camera to take photos, i didnt think to but oh well. The thing was done at 3. I wanted to talk to Leo a bit to see when and where he was filming this week in tech aka tWit.
Walked on over to the show floor again and i see a rushing dude, and it was friggin Patrick Norton. Another yet again nerd stuck moment. Just saw him, walked by and left. Pretty much it. Then day 2, i dont see anything of interest but i do wanna see Chris Parillo talk... He was on techtv for awhile when he was hosting Call for Help. I wanna see what he has to say...
Yes i know, i am a total nerd but what can i do??
Posted by Anh at 9:13 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Time to mix your red and your whites...
Sunday November 6th, 2005
This entry is going to be a little short since i been taking forever to post. I should really do it after the event or should i say the day. But what can you do. Going to be a very very cliff noted entry.
Had class at 6 which i went to but only planned on staying for a little bit. Had a little quiz in the class that took around 30 minutes to finish. The movie for the day was The French Connection. I’ve never seen it and the day where the teacher tells us we are going to have a discussion the class was going to lead, i had to go. Totally sucked but what are you going to do?
Left around 7, to make sure i made it down to the Wiltern by 8ish since doors opened at 7:30 and Jason Mraz doesn’t perform until later from past experiences.
Didn’t take too long to get down to Los Angeles, a little nder an hour. Made it into a the Wiltern which is pretty much alotta Korean type stuff around. Of course one of my favorite restaurants, BCD Tofu House, good stuff there. Healthy high in protein tofu and all that stuff... No comment on the Kim Chee... hahahaha....
Went to the usual parking complex next to the Wiltern and it was sold out. Had to go across the street where it was pretty packed to where they had to pretty in a since valet it for you. I say in a since because they just parked it but you don’t pay the valet charge..
Made it to the blockages at the Wiltern and they were trying to be all high security and crap. I told them i had a digital camera and a photo pass which was at the will call. They had someone escort me to make sure i got it, or should i say i had one. Give me a break!
Headed up the Will Call, got my tickets. Headed right on in. Wow it was way packed tonight. I’ve never gone here when it was packed, then again i haven’t done many things here except Ryan Cabrera and the Insomanic Comedy Tour. I was suppose to be here when Michael Buble was, but im not going to get into that. I missed out on a special appearance by Josh Groban during Buble concert. Aint that some shit??
James Blunt was on stage, never heard of him to be honest. However it sounds like he had a pretty big following hear the crowd cheer and stuff. I wasn’t sure if there was an escort to take the photographers to the front to take photos, i was there rather late. I headed to the operations office and tried to get some info. Photo opts for James Blunt was over, i had to check in my camera to go back to check out James. I was pretty much whatevers and just tried to kill sometime.
Did i say how crowded it was? Man it was pretty happening with people all over the place. Eventually Jason was hitting the stage at 8:45 and i headed back to the office to get my camera and be escorted. PJ who worked for the Wiltern escorted me up. Looks like i was the only photographer tonight. This was his second show and im sure most of the photogs shot last night at his first show.
Walked to the handicap walkway thing behind the pit area and in front of the first level of the place. Pretty much hung out before Jason got up on the stage..
Ran and down the ramp shooting photos. The usual 3 photo limit. More and more i been quite liberal when I shoot., ive shot over 270 photos which is good for safety since i will weed out the rest and generally get 10 good shots.
Jason came on stage alone with just a guitar, solo mic, and a rug on the floor. He was dressed in a backwards hat, pink t shirt, and jeans.
He sang two songs with just himself acoustically. The band finally hit the stage during his third song, "Life is Beautiful." In the middle of the song where it hits a downbeat and picks up. The curtain raised up showing 2 other guitars, bass and electric im assuming. A drummer, percussion, and a piano/electric piano looking dude. Jason switched out guitars a few times.
Before the end of the third song, i ran out of there because i shot a full 1 gb of photos. Checked in my camera again. Headed off up to the lodge to get into my seat. Ive never been up here and was looking forward checking it out. Was in the CC row, and the view was different than the one i an used to being here and i liked it. The view wasn’t bad and at least it was seated.
He did a little freeflowing set for awhile. I wasn’t too sure if it was a song or not but it was pretty tight. Next was “Did you get my Message,” the Wiltern was sold out which is pretty good, especially the Rolling Stones also playing in town. Other songs… Bella Luna, The Remedy where he sang the second verse in frned, Plane, Mr. Curiousity, Please don’t tell her, and Clockwatching.
Ran out of there after he performed "Geek in the Pink" right in the middle. Flipped the hat back and it was funny when he asked what day it was. He does that on the song and then he answers laundry day. I didn’t get it until he explain it and he meant that because he wanted to mix red clothes with whites and we all know when you do that, your clothes is dyed red or usually pink and then there you have the song. I didn’t want to get into the mix of the people leaving and crossing the street getting into the complex i was in. Too bad i walked across the wrong street and dude honestly i was semi lost. It took me a good 5 mins to recall the bank i walked by earlier and made it back to my car. Left LA, i wanted to hit up the tofu house to get something eat.. Decided not too, the last time i was there i was getting some looks and comments from the Korean people waiting there.. Man i wished i had someone Korean with me, but most of you know I don’t associate with many. Im not going to get into that, but don’t think im prejudice or something, i just have my preferences. All and all a good day.. I missed Desperate Housewives.... good thing it was a rerun which i learned after the fact...
Pink.. the new black...
Posted by Anh at 9:00 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 5, 2005
Charity Remake of Eric Clapton's Tears in Heaven...
Finally the song has come out. I heard about this song was in the works for a few months now. It has many big big names and of course Josh Groban is up in it. Below is some info on the "Tears in Heaven" track along with the official benefit double album info. I have included a link where i have the song streaming for your listening pleasure and hopefully you will purchase the song on iTunes or the album to support the relief. For the Josh Groban fans, i have included another special track..
Listen to TEARS IN HEAVEN Here
Purchase Tears in Heaven on itunes for $.99cents
Purchase Hurricane Relief: Come Together Now double album on Amazon
Lets show some support even if its only $.99 cents
Tears in Heaven...
Executive producers Sharon Osbourne and Simon Cowell have announced the October 11 release of a star-studded recording of Eric Clapton's "Tears in Heaven" exclusively on iTunes to benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina and survivors of December"s devastating tsunami in Southeast Asia. The special song--originally recorded following the tsunami, but unreleased until now--features vocals from Elton John, Mary J. Blige, Rod Stewart, Josh Groban, Gwen Stefani, Ozzy Osbourne, Andrea Bocelli, Steven Tyler, Phil Collins, Robert Downey, Jr., Pink, Gavin Rossdale, Kelly Osbourne and Scott Weiland, with music performed by Velvet Revolver.
iTunes will forward the song's entire $.99 download fee to Save the Children," which will help fund the long-term rebuilding of the lives of children affected by the natural disasters. Donations made in the U.S. will go directly to the Hurricane Katrina victims, while monies received outside the U.S. will be assigned to the tsunami relief fund. Originally recorded by Eric Clapton in 1991 following the death of his son, "Tears in Heaven" was re-recorded throughout Europe, the U.K. and the U.S. with producer Mark Hudson. The Los Angeles sessions took place at The Village, the same studio where Clapton recorded the original.
Sharon says, "The magnitude of these natural disasters surpasses anything we've seen in our lifetime. With this single and other relief efforts, our intent is to keep these tragedies in the forefront of everyone's minds. We must not forget and do all we can to help these people rebuild their lives." She adds, "Music fans who purchase this single will aid the relief efforts and own a historic recording for which these talented artists graciously donated their time."Benefit CD Next Month
Hurricane Relief: Come Together Now Benefit Album
A double CD titled “Hurricane Relief: Come Together Now” will hit stores in mid-November.
The tracks include concert performances by Coldplay (“Fix You”), Elton John (“I’m Still Standing”), James Brown (“Try Me”), John Fogerty (“Born on the Bayou”) and New Orleans-flavored songs by Sting (“Moon Over Bourbon Street”), Fats Domino (“Walking to New Orleans”) and Louis Armstrong (“Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans”). The CD also includes the new Norah J ones and Wyclef Jean collaboration, “Any Other Day,” and “I Believe” by Barbra Streisand.
Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne, Mary J. Blige, Josh Groban and Robert Downey Jr. are among the singers swapping verses on Eric Clapton’s reinterpreted 1991 hit “Tears in Heaven.” The song is already available on iTunes. Proceeds from U.S. sales will go toward Gulf Coast relief efforts while foreign sales will benefit victims of the tsunami in South Asia.
Come Together Now track
'Come Together Now' is an unprecedented response by the music industry to the tragedies brought about by this year's hurricanes. EMI, SONYBMG, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and Concord Music Group along with the Recording Industry Association of America have gotten together to release a newly recorded song titled "Come Together" and release a 2 CD collection by many of today's top artists to help provide relief from the terrible destruction left in the wake of these storms.
The song was co-written by Sharon Stone, Damon Sharpe, MarkFeist, and Denise Rich. The stars performing on the song include Celine Dion, The Game, Joss Stone, John Legend, Wyclef Jean, Mya, JoJo, Rueben Studdard, Patti Labelle, Gavin Degraw, Anthony Hamilton, Natalie Cole, Stacie Orrico, Kelly Price, Chingy, Jesse Macartney, The Backstreet Boys, Aaron Carter, Anthony Hamilton, Angie Stone, Lee Ryanand Glenn Lewis.
Listen to TEARS IN HEAVEN Here
Purchase Tears in Heaven on itunes for $.99cents
Purchase Hurricane Relief: Come Together Now double album on Amazon
Posted by Anh at 3:14 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
You are watching MADTV.....
Last last Friday.. October 28th, 2005
Friday... Hurray... The highlight of the day I was hoping will be the MadTV taping...
The morning wasn't fill with anything interesting. My older brother is back in town from Santa Cruz. Bummed it all morning until around 2ish. My class was leaving at 3. My Cinema professor is friends with the Mad TV Talent casting director. I was game to go with, since it was some sort of VIP access.
However I had to get a book at the bookstore for my history class. I've been putting it off for awhile and been doing decent without it, however I've been a lazy ass to go to the library and finish work. I was pretty much ready to go but the plumber came to fix my sink. First it was leaking, then the temperatures were switch, and then the sink seemed clogged.
After that was done being fixed, headed off to the school. Bookstore was still open however they didn't have any more used book and the new book was too expensive. Oh well...
Headed off to meet with the class. It was 3:03 and looks like im the last one there. There was about 9 of us. Exciting!
The drive there was boring.. No one was really talking and I wasn't feeling my outgoing self since I was feeling under the weather. I did learn a new route to Hollywood. We were averaging about 60 to 70 miles per hour and got into LA in 40 mins. Next time imma take the 210 to 134 to 5. I usually drive 80, so ill be there in 20 mins. Haha.
The way we took gave me a new way to get to the Greek Theatre. I've been to so many concerts there but man only distinct experiences stick out in my mind and not really privy to it. Sucks.
I love going a different route to places around Hollywood. I always see the same things because I take the same routes.
Made it to the Hollywood Center Studios. Parked it up in the D Lot and walked to the studios. I love being in studio back lots. I feel like a kid in a candy store. You don't know what shows are being filmed, what big names are walking around. I just love it. I would take the backlot tour at Universal Studios nonstop if I could. I mean I could but people I am with might not like it.
We head to studio 8 which is the Mad Tv filming studio. Pretty much just hang out. We were led in and saw a little of the rehearsals. I see a Wheel of Fortune set and I noticed someone that looks like Pamela Anderson. Dude it was her. I was like wow, she's pretty hott in person. However we had to leave because it was a close rehearsals.
Headed off outside, and just chilled out. I get on the phone to talk to Ben about some business. Couple events were coming up and we had to set some stuff up.
I noticed a guy that looks familiar. I used to be a Jimmy Kimmel show whore, attending and always watching. Im going to attend again next week to see Dane Cook. Whoop whoop!
Anyways.. He's the germen dude that wears glasses and always seems to be in a tank top and shorts.
Other people we saw were Frank Caliendo, Daniele Gaither. The class took pictures with them however again, not really big on pictures with celebs. Just not a thing. Im sure it came off as me being some snotty dude.
Pam came out and looks like she went to her dressing room. One of the PA told us we shouldn't even try to ask to take a pic because she feels all awkward. Oh well..
I just walked around and tried to take in the lot. I honestly just love back lots. So much action, celebs, Hollywood business goes on.
Professor Hill's friend came out to chatter with us. I totally can't recall her name, Kim comes to mind. She's the Talent director, who books the celebs and im thinking the musical acts too. Chatting up some stuff about that, she was really really mellow. I learned a few things but knew of what she told us. Then we got led back in..
At this point audience members were getting seated. Anyways. Ill give the cliff notes.. Don't really want to describe everything. If you are an avid madtv viewer and don't want to know about the skits then don't read on...
250th episode... 11th season... So it was a pretty big deal.. Wheel of Fortune sketch where "Pat Sejack" does things to have Pam bounce, shake, and jirate so her boobs would react. She was wearing this purplely blue cat suit. To be honest her boobs didn't move much since they are pretty umm fake and large.
Next was a summer camp thing. Pretty much worked the angle the head camp conseuler in this all girl camp was a lesbian. Had one black camper and pretty much did the racial black person in an all white surroundings.
Oh yeah... They had pre recorded video to show the audience to laugh to. Had a snoop dogg and pharrell drop it like its hot parody with the song called smoking too much pot. If you asked me, it felt kinda late. The video is like done and over with.
Other skits they showed I don't remember much.
Next... Had the opening skit with introductions. Played the angle one of the actors on the show grandmother was coming. Which was Pam Anderson with a walker and gray hair. Called her a GILF. They made use of the camera phones which will look pretty funny.
Next.. President Bush with a talk show. Enough said.. Typical playing off his stupidity and some scandals going on.
Last skit.. A real lame one about this chick who can't have a guy and their convo. All done in a cafeteria. Totally lame. Oh soo long..
Now for all the stuff in between. Mind you this took 4 hours for all this. Usually at show tapings there a funny guy to direct the crowd and such. Funny guy somewhat. Anyways.. They had a singing contest and this chick who was singing. Before she sang she had to announce she was jail bait.. Umm ok? They had some cheerleaders do a small tumble. Oh so entertaining. So that dude was passing out candy, hats, and shirt. Something he said that I've believe for the longest times. "Guys don't eat lollipops" haha im sorry.. You just don't.. If you do, do it not in public.
Anyways.. The thing ended at 10ish.. They had vip people say and the others go. Dude I thought it was gonna be like a little set tour after show wrap up party. No. It was to bring in another audience to be seat. Oh heck no. Im not gonna be sitting in here for who knows how long. Booked it outta there quick.
Left the way we came in. We were all standing around. I notice Bobby Lee in a Turkey outfit and point him out to my professor. He walks over and ask for a photo with the class. He was cool with it. I told him what's up when I saw him last week. Of course he was like who are you? Haha.. Again I wasnt into the photo. However Bobby was like we gotta get the asian guy in here. Professor was like now you wanna be in it now. I was like nah its cool. Again didn't want to seem like an asian nob. I ended up getting in standing right next to him. Took the pictures and what not... Sidenote... So im reading Bobby's bio on MADTV.com and it mention him being in Harold and Kumar go to White Castle.. Then it rang a bell, he was the Korean student asking John Cho's character about being a bank inventor or something.. That was funny and a couple scenes later you see him with his shirt off with weed.. haha. funny stuff..
Now off to the Van and to get some friggin food. I throw out the idea to go see Dane Cook at the Laugh Factory. Anyways, went to go El Pollo Loco. I actually never been so I was semi ecstatic. I saw the commercial for the tortilla soup and wanted to try. I've been addicted ever since Leslie made it for me.
Again it was whatever. Here's the funny thing. One of the chicks was sitting across from me. She got a phone call, hey I wasn't ease dropping. It was the typical call, pretty much an update on the night. She said something that made me laugh. Here it is.. "Uhh no" then a giggle. Ok it doesn't make sense and no you don't have to be there to get it. I can bet a million dollars what the person on the phone ask. You ready?... "Are there any cute people in your class" and again her answer, "uhh no" giggle... Hahaha why do I think this? Dude everyone asks this, EVERYONE. I get calls and people ask me. I wouldn't be on the phone with them if there were. Trust me. I just found that rather humorous.
Then the ride on home... I felt a little more outgoing and talked a bit more. Other than that. Pretty much a whatever ride home. I nodded off... Hope I didn't snore, but I felt awake..
Tortilla Soup.... yum..
Posted by Anh at 2:52 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 1, 2005
Domo Arigato...
The image to the right is the sky line of Tokyo. How would you like to see this for over a year?? I run across this posting on Craigslist. Looking at the nature of this job, its seems totally awesome.. I mean you get to teach kids, only a class of 7 kids which is nothing. You get to effin live in JAPAN!! You only live once and 13 months of your life isnt much of it. You get to learn a new culture, explore a new land, eat REAL sushi!! I am considering this however i dont have a degree much yet. I would love to go on a journey and just take photos of this magical place.. Everything is pretty covered plus i did the conversion of the Yen and its a little over 2100 U.S. Dollars.. Who knows.. maybe youll start seeing me posting from Japan.. If you are interested... read the post below for the information that was posted and heres the contact email... peppykids@ktc-usa.com
Peppy Kids Club managed by the KTC Foreign Language Institute. Teach children between the ages of 2.5 to 14 years old. Average class size of seven students. Presently over 1,000 classrooms with more than 80,000 students in over 40 prefectures throughout Japan. -Two week training program. -Housing available - Company related transportation costs coveredJob Qualification
1. Must have a work visa to be employed in Japan (the company will sponsor hired teachers)
2. Must be a native English speaker
3. Bachelor's degree in any field
4. No age restrictions
5. 13 month contract* Job location is Japan
* Compensation: 250,000 JYN(Japanese Yen) / month
I think im turning Japanese.. I think im turning Japanese
Posted by Anh at 9:36 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack