Anh-Nguyen.com

September 19, 2009

Primetime Emmys 2009 Picks

Here are my picks for the Primtime Emmys 2009. I haven't done this in a very long time and thought it was something I could do before the USC at Washington game. Washington won 16-13. Yay! Now UCLA needs to keep up their run!! Anyways, here are my picks for various categories that I have somewhat knowledge of. This can entail me actually watching the shows or my large celebrity, all things Hollywood mind. Lets see how well I do come Monday.. Neil Patrick Harris is the host, and he should be pretty damn funny!

This year's Primetime Emmys are going to be Legen... wait for it.. DARY!!!

 

 

 

DRAMA SERIES:
"Big Love," HBO
"Breaking Bad," AMC
"Damages," FX
"Dexter," Showtime
"House," Fox (WANT)
"Lost," ABC
"Mad Men," AMC (WILL)

COMEDY SERIES:
"Entourage," HBO
"Family Guy," Fox
"How I Met Your Mother," CBS (WANT, even though last season was ok)
"Flight of the Conchords," HBO
"The Office," NBC
"30 Rock," NBC (WILL)
"Weeds," Showtime

ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES:
Simon Baker, "The Mentalist"
Gabriel Byrne, "In Treatment"
Bryan Cranston, "Breaking Bad"
Michael C. Hall, "Dexter" (WANT)
Jon Hamm, "Mad Men" (WILL)
Hugh Laurie, "House" (WANT AND SHOULD)

ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES:
Glenn Close, "Damages"
Sally Field, "Brothers and Sisters"
Mariska Hargitay, "Law and Order: Special Victims Unit" (WILL)
Holly Hunter, "Saving Grace"
Elisabeth Moss, "Mad Men"
Kyra Sedgwick, "The Closer" (WANT)

ACTRESS, COMEDY SERIES:
Christina Applegate, "Samantha Who?"
Toni Collette, "United States of Tara" (WANT)
Tina Fey, "30 Rock" (WILL)
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, "New Adventures of Old Christine"
Mary-Louise Parker, "Weeds"
Sarah Silverman, "The Sarah Silverman Program"

ACTOR, COMEDY SERIES:
Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock" (WILL)
Steve Carell, "The Office"
Jemaine Clement, "Flight of the Conchords"
Jim Parsons, "The Big Bang Theory" (WANT AND SHOULD)
Tony Shalhoub, "Monk"
Charlie Sheen, "Two and a Half Men"

SUPPORTING ACTOR, COMEDY SERIES:
Jon Cryer, "Two and a Half Men"
Kevin Dillon, "Entourage"
Neil Patrick Harris, "How I Met Your Mother" (WANT AND WILL)
Jack McBrayer, "30 Rock"
Tracy Morgan, "30 Rock"
Rainn Wilson, "The Office"

SUPPORTING ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES:
Christian Clemenson, "Boston Legal" (WILL)
Michael Emerson, "Lost" (WANT AND SHOULD)
William Hurt, "Damages"
Aaron Paul, "Breaking Bad"
William Shatner, "Boston Legal" (GOOD CHANCE WILL)
John Slattery, "Mad Men"

SUPPORTING ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES:
Rose Byrne, "Damages"
Hope Davis, "In Treatment"
Cherry Jones, "24" (WANT)
Sandra Oh, "Grey's Anatomy"
Dianne Wiest, "In Treatment"
Chandra Wilson, "Grey's Anatomy" (WILL)

SUPPORTING ACTRESS, COMEDY SERIES:
Kristin Chenoweth, "Pushing Daisies"
Amy Poehler, "Saturday Night Live" (WANT, WILL, AND SHOULD)
Jane Krakowski, "30 Rock"
Elizabeth Perkins, "Weeds"
Kristin Wiig, "Saturday Night Live"
Vanessa Williams, "Ugly Betty"

REALITY HOST:
Tom Bergeron, "Dancing With The Stars"
Phil Keoghan, "The Amazing Race"
Heidi Klum, "Project Runway"
Padma Lakshmi and Tom Colicchio, "Top Chef" (WANT)
Jeff Probst, "Survivor"
Ryan Seacrest, "American Idol" (WILL)

REALITY-COMPETITION PROGRAM:
"The Amazing Race," CBS
"American Idol," FOX
"Dancing With The Stars," ABC (WILL)
"Project Runway," Bravo
"Top Chef," Bravo (WANT)

REALITY PROGRAM:
"Antiques Roadshow," PBS
"Dirty Jobs," Discovery Channel
"Dog Whisperer," National Geographic
"Intervention," A&E (WILL)
"Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D-List," Bravo (WANT AND CHANCE WILL)
"Mythbusters," Discovery

 

CASTING FOR A COMEDY SERIES:
"Californication" (WANT)
"30 Rock" (WILL)
"The Office" (WANT)
"United States of Tara" (WANT)
"Weeds" (WANT)

CASTING FOR A DRAMA SERIES:
"Damages"
"Friday Night Lights"
"Mad Men" (WILL)
"True Blood"
"The Tudors"

 

GUEST ACTOR IN A COMEDY SERIES:
Alan Alda, "30 Rock"
Beau Bridges, "Desperate Housewives"
Jon Hamm, "30 Rock"
Steve Martin, "30 Rock"
Justin Timberlake, "Saturday Night Live" (WANT, WILL, SHOULD)

GUEST ACTOR IN A DRAMA SERIES:
Edward Asner, "CSI: NY"
Ernest Borgnine, "ER"
Ted Danson, "Damages"
Michael J. Fox, "Rescue Me"
Jimmy Smits, "Dexter" (WANT, WILL, SHOULD)

GUEST ACTRESS IN A COMEDY SERIES:
Jennifer Aniston, "30 Rock"
Christine Baranski, "The Big Bang Theory" (WANT AND SHOULD)
Tina Fey, "Saturday Night Live" (WILL)
Gena Rowlands, "Monk"
Elaine Stritch, "30 Rock"
Betty White, "My Name Is Earl"

GUEST ACTRESS IN A DRAMA SERIES:
Brenda Blethyn, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit"
Carol Burnett, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" (WILL)
Ellen Burstyn, "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit"
Sharon Lawrence, "Grey's Anatomy" (WANT)
CCH Pounder, "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency"

WRITING FOR A VARIETY, MUSIC OR COMEDY SERIES:
"The Colbert Report" (WANT AND WILL)
"The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" (WANT)
"Late Night With Conan O'Brien"
"Late Show With David Letterman"
"Saturday Night Live"

VARIETY, MUSIC OR COMEDY SERIES:
"The Colbert Report," Comedy Central (WANT AND WILL)
"The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," Comedy Central (WANT)
"Late Show With David Letterman," CBS
"Real Time With Bill Maher," HBO (REALLY WANT)
"Saturday Night Live," NBC

ANIMATED PROGRAM (FOR PROGRAMMING LESS THAN ONE HOUR):
"American Dad," Fox
"Robot Chicken," Cartoon Network (WANT AND WILL)
"The Simpsons," Fox
"South Park," Comedy Central

ORIGINAL MUSIC AND LYRICS:
"81st Annual Academy Awards" ⢠Song: "Hugh Jackman Opening Number"
"A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All" ⢠Song: "Much Worse Things"
"The 2008 ESPYS" ⢠Song: "I Love Sports"
"Flight of the Conchords" ⢠Song: "Carol Brown"
"A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa" ⢠Song: "I Wish I Could Be Santa Claus"
"Saturday Night Live" ⢠Song: "Motherlover" (WANT, SHOULD, WILL)

CHILDREN'S PROGRAM:
"Hannah Montana," Disney Channel
"iCarly," Nickelodeon
"Wizards of Waverly Place," Disney Channel (WANT AND WILL)


 

Posted by Anh at 4:56 PM | Comments (0)

September 2, 2006

LACHSA First Annual Hollywood Tribute

August 31st, 2006

Damn.. It has been awhile since I attended an event Josh Groban was going to be at. I don't know if it was intentional or not but here I am. I missed a Grammys event in Malibu a month ago and was kinda pissed about that. Anyways.. Los Angeles County High School of the Arts or LACHSA for short was honoring a few of their teachers, Warner Brothers and Josh Groban.

The event was held at the Century Plaza Hotel. The photos on their website makes the hotel look pretty nice, but man Century City is a drive.

Once I arrived at the hotel, after parking across at the Westfield Mall, I entered into the hotel. By the way, this Westfield Mall had a effin Louis Vuitton and Tiffany Co. store. I didn't know Westfield Malls were this nice. HAHA. I walked from one side of the lobby to the other and didn't know where the heck the event was. I assumed it was some ballroom but didn't see any signs. After I backed tracked from the restaurant to the bar, I saw a bunch of "older" woman walking in a huge group taking an escalator. I assumed they knew where to go and followed them down one level.

I turned a corner and there were the crowd of more "older" woman and saw the table to sign in. I received my credentials and walked into the ballroom. My first reaction was that it was really small. The width of the room I'd say was maybe 25 feet to 30 feet. The length maybe 100? Give or take? Basically the place was a little smaller than I would think the event would be. I mean cmon, Josh Groban? A tribute? Who knows.. The place had tables that sat 10 people each and maybe there were about 12 to 15 tables. Right dab in the middle was the stage with some dude playing a flute and rapping. Yeah.. Talented..

I headed over to the press table on the far end of everything. First thing I thought, we were sitting at the kids table.. haha. I didn't care. I was kinda all hot and bothered from the walk from the mall, so I didn't care where I sat. I wanted to sit and cool the heck down.

People were slowly making their way in and hanging out. After awhile, this chick I remember last year showed up, along with an older lady that didn't look like she knew what she was doing. That chick I remember.. I remember her because she has soo much makeup. I mean there is a point where make up enhances a woman's features but when it looks like you can scoop it off, that is when it is just too much. Oh her name is Katherine Kramer... I Googled her and I guess her Godmother was Katherine Hepburn. ::shrugs::

The older lady came over with a gift bag for the guest, so I assumed she was a guest. But I guess she wasn't and was with some online magazine thing. I find it tacky to steal someones gift bag when you know you're not suppose to get one. It wasn't hard too since the bags were just hanging on the chairs. Plus the bags consisted of hand lotion, cds of from Katisse Buckinham and Gwendolyn (which I will get into later), a Celine Dion keychain and fun-size candies. Yeah, I thought to myself uhh yeah ok.... The makeup chick ended up lifting a bag too.

The committee chair lady came over to welcome us and told us about the open Vodka and Gin bar. :) She also told us Josh Groban was running late and that his performance would start around 7:15. Well I guess no interview will be possible since the 30 minutes before 5:00pm was the time for that.

I was feeling uncomfortable since I was in there, so again I just sat there and took everything in. Katisse Buckinham and Upper Structure were providing the music. Katisse looks like a dirt bike rider that plays jazz. Sonia Romero came around to be interviewed. I didn't really bother to ask her anything but she was an artist from LACHSA. I wasn't too privy on her paintings but still respect it. She is pretty cute though. :) She is having a showcase soon and I might check that out.

Another photog came around, Krista from Corbis and Zuma. Finally someone that looked normal to talk to. She went to get a drink and it was a banana Vokda drink, she didn't want that. I tasted it and it was sick. The smell was nice, kind of like a Banana Now and Later. At this time they were serving the people who paid for their seats. The seats were $250 each and you were able to buy the whole table. It looked like Carpaccio was the appetizer. I went to go get a drink and made sure it wasn't some Banana drink. I asked for my usual Vodka Tonic and when the bartender was making it, he kept looking at me. I wasn't sure why but most of the time I was looking down at him making the drink. After he gave me a few glances, he then asked me if I was even old enough. I laughed and looked at him. It was an older Asian guy, and of all people, he should know we don't look our age.

I headed back and more people were at the table. Marc Murai and his crew were hanging out. He was there to finish up his documentary on the school and they were showing a trailer of it later.

Eventually Josh Groban made his way into the place. He sat right in front of the stage and Gwendolyn was performing. I went over to chatter a bit to him and his manager, Brian. This time I remembered to ask for his card; but with my luck he didnt have one on him. Nice... The other photographers and I tried to get a shot of Josh but he seemed engaged with Gwendolyn's performance. We wanted a good clean shot of him alone, but there wasn't a good time to take his attention away.

To give you an idea of the music Gwendolyn was performing, she announced the title to one of the songs... "Acorn." I don't think I need to say anything else..

Dinner was being served and it look like some steak medallion thingy. I just wanted to get my shots and leave. But it seemed like it was going to take forever.

After what it seemed like an hour of the dinner stuff; the opening remarks started the award stuff. By this time, Mike from Wireimage joined us and we made the best of the time sitting there doing nothing. The older lady that was sitting with us was hitting me up on how I got there and such. She said she was with Splash Magazine.. I thought to myself Splash News? They are known for their paparazzi photos and what not but didn't know they had a magazine. She said she was with them but I knew she didn't even what she was talking about. Earlier she was going to get kicked out for taking photos of Josh without her badge. The whole time he was here she kept asking if I wanted to go with her to take pictures but I just played her off the 100 times she asked.

They played the LACHSA Documentary trailer after the opening remarks. The school seemed like a cool place to attend. Jerry Freedman was first to receive the 2006 Outstanding Educator Awards. He seems like a really cool teacher and a teacher that I wish I had in high school. I wanted to actually attend LACHSA because what was said about him and what he had to say. Ka-Ron was the dance teacher that was getting honored. She was making fun of Josh and how she heard that he might have needed a dance teacher. I thought that was kinda funny.
Warner Bros. was also honored for helping out the school. They have donated 250,000 dollars in who knows how many years span. The rep for WB was talking and talking and talking. Josh was next to receive his award according to the program. He didn't get it until a taped message from Celine Dion. But before that video message played; the committee chair told the audience that Gayle Anderson called in saying congrats and wished she was there. OH! During this time, the waiter guy dropped off some leftover bread sticks from when he bussed the other table. Dude we were hella hungry but I wasn't trying to be all crazy on the bread sticks.

Josh received his award and made his speech. At this time, I went up to shoot some pictures. Josh ended up performing "America" and "Vincent." During "Vincent" Zach Provost came up to play the piano. The lighting in there sucked big time to take pictures but whatever. I noticed something on Josh that gave me the idea that I need to start doing it the same.

The night was basically done and we kept trying to get Brian or someone in charge to take Josh away for a single headshot photo opt. However after he was done performing he was caught up with group photos with the other honorees and fans. After those photos were done, he went ahead and did autographs. I just ended up shooting photos of him doing the autograph thing. One of the staff photogs there told us that some star from Passions was there. Is this Josh's new "friend"? He isnt dating January Jones a few months ago and she was friendly with Brian. Hmmm.. or maybe she went to LACSHA too.

Eventually Josh made his way out of the endless autographs and gave us a photo opt. At that time, Brian was rushing him off and from what I heard, he was going into the studio. Mike wanted to get a photo with Josh and this lady with a tattoo of his face on her arm. I met this lady last year at the Bowl and kinda thought it was weird. If she was covered up, you would think she was a elementary teacher.

We took our photos, said goodbye to Josh and Brian and headed off. The night was basically over and I wanted to get out of the place. I made my walk out to the Mall. It took me 20 minutes to get to my car because Ididn't even know which escalator lead me to my car. I just walked out onto the street and walked into the parking complex where I drove into.

All and all the night was decent. Made some contacts and took more photos. It was really weird, the girl with too much makeup had a friend come with her. When they left, she came back in and sat down. He came back and started yelling at her saying, "How dare you, how dare you." I was like what the heck in my mind, take that drama outside. Mike and Krista were saying some interesting stuff about her and what they said made total sense from my past experiences with her. Oh well..

Mr. Groban goes on tour again soon once his third album comes out this fall. I cannot wait for that...

Check out more photos

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More Photos...

Posted by Anh at 3:06 PM | Comments (14)

June 22, 2006

Play, Laugh, Dream, Celebrate...

Tuesday June 20th, 2006

Click here for T-Mobile Sidekick 3 Launch Party Gallery
Note: Enlarge resolution to see all photos or use arrow keys to navigate

Sidekick 3 party... When you hear T-Mobile Sidekick.. the name Paris Hilton is the first thing that comes to mine.. Well tonight was the launch party for the year now rumored 4th reincarnation of the multi-purpose popular cell phone device.. The Sidekick 2 has become hugely popular and you cannot go anywhere in LA without seeing someone typing away.. I had a chance to check out the phone and the review will be after my rants and such below..

This was my first event since Februaryish due to my school boy mode. I tried to rid myself of all distractions.. I call it my overachieving mode.. The result?... Been pulling As and B the last 2 semesters fulltime and going into honors.. What’s good is that with the honors system at the school, they have contracts with Universities in California and UCLA and USC on are on the list!! Back to the subject..

Headed off pretty early to the Hollywood Palladium where the event is being held.. I was one of the first to show up which I guess is good.. I didn’t really want to deal with other photogs who can sometimes be dicks. When I drove up to Argyle off of Sunset, the whole block was barricaded off.. I guess its a fairly big event.. Well I assumed so but I try not to get too hyped up about these events..

After waiting around for a few minutes.. Christine rolled on up and said howdy to her. I emailed her awhile back but never a response but we both came to the conclusion that her email wanted forwarding to her main email. I wanted to get in touch with her to pick her brain about the business and get at her Grey's Anatomy Season 1 DVD signed by the whole cast.. She came by from shooting Tera Patrick at Virgin.. Yum yum!!

Other photographers came along and it was good to see familiar faces and such.. Met Glen, who was one of the photographers there. He seemed to recognize me from another event.. I couldn’t recall him though. He was an awesome person to chatter with.. and was one of the non-serious looking photogs there.. Anyways!

Around 8:15, we checked in and went to our spots.. The lighting was totally horrible.. Oh well.. We tried to move the lights towards our general direction on the carpet. More and more waiting around until I say 9ish..

The first few arrivals were giving me the idea of what the F***!? Jose Conseco? Aaron Carter and his sister girl group or something? Totally random basketball players.. As the night went on it got better.. Taylor Cole, Kristin Bell, Rachel Bilson, Sarah Carter, Christopher Knight, Adrianne Curry, Carlos Mencia, Travis Barker, Mark Hoppus, Shane West, Chris Masterson, Laura Prepon, Haylie and Hillary Duff, Kristin Cavalerri, Serena Williams and Marques Houston to name a few.

It was hella funny when me and 2 other photographers sang out the Ms. New Booty song when Vida Guerra rolled up. It was hella funny. Now for the main event… However there is a quiet before the storm.. J.C. Chasez, Kelly Monaco, Christina Milian. Jadakiss and Jason Mewes. I had to stop Jason because he didn’t want to do the line but Clerks 2 is coming out and yeah.. ha.. The chick photog next to be was on a plastic stand and like broke it twice. I didn’t think about it at the time but she could have pulled my jacket and we could have fell off the platform. Well ok..Dude the carpet was also the walk way for guest of the party to walk inside to the party and man.. When we get an opt to shoot, people kept on walking in the shot and no one would stop them. It was so damn annoying.. One photog was getting hella pissed and kinda blew up at the main PR rep there and was booted… Ouch… he had a valid reason because all we did was yell hold the line when shooting.. but whatever..

Now the storm!! Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Misha Barton, Jessica Simpson and Eva Longoria all to seem to arrive at once. What I found interesting is that Paris walked the pink carpet first then Nicole.. interesting.. I believe the feud is all made up and they want to see how long they can go. Paris did come with a hot chick, Kim Kardashian. Very very hot.. I guess she was rumored to be Nick Lachey's new girlfriend at some point.. who knows.. Paris did an interview with ET and blah blah she was saying she was visiting friends at the party and leaving to Paris on Thursday.. YAWN YAWN…She wears a lot of make up, kinda cakey if you ask me but she does have a unique look to her and I LOVE her perfume! It looks like she is sporting a new trendy and is trying to launch it or something.. I think Lindsay Lohan was doing it before but imagine you have a white glove and half of the lower part is cut off and youre wearing it... Yeah.. I know.. Just to say it.. Nicole Richie is WAY too skinny and Janice Dickenson is a mess!! When someone askes her why the long face.. they arent asking her why shes sad..

Jessica Simpson and Eva Longoria were attached at the hip. Down the press line she told Manny that she is doing a video with Jessica with Ryan Seacrest.. Interesting.. Is it me or does Jessica Simpson pose involves elevating her right shoulder so when she smiles her shoulder is touch her nose? You be the judge.. Manny interviewed J.C. and he informs about his new CD coming out October.. I hope it doesn’t drop when Justin Timberlake's second album drops. Cuz that would suck for JC.. BURN!! As Zach Braff on Scrubs would say, “ZOOM, ZOOM, ZOOM!” Just kidding…. Sorta..

Manny and I tried to discuss the situation with his website and my plans for a celebrity type podcast. We gotta get the ball rolling on this. If you are reading this and represent say Sony or Panasonic… anyone who has video recording devices.. How about a donation/investment to our video podcast? We will of course have note of the product in the end credits like Kevin Smith’s Clerks 2 video podcast does.. Email me at anh@anh-nguyen.com if interested or want more info on our part?! 

When the red carpet.. well pink carpet died down.. Manny, Chris, and I went into the party to check it on out.. This party was bumping.. The mantra of the party was projected on the walls.. "Play, Laugh, Dream, Celebrate" You know its an official hollyweird party when you have an ice sculpture hitting your senses when you enter.. The sculpture of course was of the sidekick and its was pretty interesting looking.. I have a horrible photo of it on the right hand side with my other cell phone photos.. The second thing that hits you is a ball pit.. a ball pit with girls in very very short shorts and wearing very tight shirts.. The description of the event was an adult childhood like playground.. I thought this entailed that the party goers were going to jump around in ball pits, sliding off slides and swinging on swings.. I was soo wrong.. Again.. Very limited clothed girls doing the actions of the previous activities i mentioned prior and there was a sandbox.. Enough said about that.. for now..

We walked around and took in the atmosphere.. Dead ahead towards the back was the rather large stage.. DJ AM was spinning the music... His mixes are totally random and usually pretty crazy but I wasn’t really feeling his mix tonight.. Along with the adult childhood theme.. carnival games were around the perimeter. A hammer frog jump hit the gopher head game, basketball, can knock down, and the ball tosses were the ones I recall. They event had a green screen photo booth.. Of course there were drinks galore but the hor'dourves were really interesting.. The girls were walking around with cupcakes, pizza slices, cookies, mini corn dogs and things to that nature. There was even a dude making cotton candy.. I would have got up on the cotton candy since I haven’t had any in ages but the guy making it look rather pissed off..

I caught up with Efren.. Pedro from Napoleon Dynamite.. Brought up a party awhile back that my friends and I threw, that was crazy as heck.. We had to pick his ass up from somewhere far.. I think it was Thousand Oaks.. C’mon 1000 Oaks to Rancho? Goodness... Chatted it up some and exchange the digits since its been awhile and yeah.. Lost Manny and the group but I decided to walk around and take in the energy.. Walked on by pass JC, Mike Tyson and Paris and Kim walked by hand and hand..

It was a pretty packed event.. I say 200 give or take? Met up with the group for a little bit longer and they had to head off.. Now off to do some more networking.. For whatever reason I didn’t find the need to run off to the bar and get myself a drink. Noticed one of the host or something on G4 Attack of the Show.. Will was his name.. The show has gotten sooo damn lame and the whole network programming is revolved around entertainment but the way they present it is totally lame and unwatchable. We chatted a bit and I asked him about Sarah Lane because I haven’t seen her for awhile when I do watch the show.. He tells me Her and Brendan whatever on the show got married and is traveling around the world. They have some podcasts and very emo scene style website.. I asked about her ex-boyfriend Kevin Rose, Digg.com Kevin, and Will says he could give a fuck. Totally laughed about that..

Lee Norris was hanging with his publicist... I wanted to call out Minkis.. You know the nerdy dude that was on Boy Meets World.. Awww the memories.. She Wants Revenged started rocking out on stage.. I heard a lot about them and their performance at Coachella.. From the performance they had, they are an awesome band. Gotta go get their album..

It was getting close to midnight and I had my fill with the party.. However not before I got my hand on a Sidekick 3.. Here comes my personal review of the phone that will be publicly released July 10th and specially available to current Sidekick owners on June 28th. Be sure to get your hands on one quick because they will be sold out.. When I thought about that it kinda reminded me about how I could have gotten the Sidekick 2 for Christmas as a gift but it was sold out.. and with the Hollywood Bowl season coming up...Seriously.. Seriously?!... I digress...

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Sidekick III Review

The phone has finally caught up with the many devices currently on the market.. I believe the reason why the technology was not included was the fact owners didn’t care too much about the bells and whistles and purchased it for its functionality. The current Sidekick model includes a 1.3 mega pixel camera, Bluetooth technology for those wireless headsets and PC syncing, a removable flash memory (miniSD), removable battery and an mp3 player. Yes.. I know.. Phones already have this and what’s up with the lag. Who the heck knows..

The phone is indeed smaller than the Sidekick 2. The volume, power and left right page buttons are not embossed or protruding. These buttons sit rather flush with the phone on the corners. The removable battery does give you option to purchase another battery since Sidekick 2 owners and myself do complain about the battery life. The phone will not last a day even if you do not touch it. The removable battery option will be ideal since the phone can be used as an MP3 player.

What I found disturbing was the change of the scroll wheel. The Sidekick 3 now has a track ball instead of the wheel. The trackball is very VERY sensitive. When scrolling through the menu I accidentally entered menus and applications I did not intentionally want. You have to have a really soft touch. The OS of the phone has changed... MSN Messenger has been added to the current AOL/AIM and Yahoo Instant Messenger clients. The menus are more organized that could be explained as folders. Go into the messenger menu from the main menu and you get the IM client options and it works the same for games..

Overall the phone is an improvement over its predecessor but the bells and whistles are more like a toot compared to current generation phones. The phone still lacks with limited 6 megabytes for email storage.. That is including all mail not just your Tmail messenges. The screen is still rather small with the same resolution as the Sidekick 2 and gets washed out with direct sunlight. With the mainstream appeal of the phone, the Bluetooth serves no purpose for the casual user. Why do I believe this? Whoever has a Sidekick especially the third version wants to show it off and I can guarantee you will not see many Sidekick 3 users talking to themselves on a Bluetooth headset. If you plan on having more than 5 songs on your stock 64 megabyte miniSD card, I suggest purchasing a large capacity card. I found a one gig miniSD on eBay for $.99 cents. Also with not way to change the bumpers since there are not any, you will have to invest in some Swarovski crystals or a plastic sticker skin to add character and uniqueness to your streamline silver and black phone. $300 for a 2 year contract upgrade, $350 for new activation and $400 with no contract. Is the phone worth the price? You will have to decide that for yourself.. I would say yes but I am a Sidekick owner who would die without mine.

Click here for the Official Sidekick III website

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Like the title of this entry and phrase from the party says..

Posted by Anh at 4:51 AM | Comments (5)

June 17, 2006

The Sidekick III Launch Party..

The launch party for the new T-Mobile Sidekick is this coming Tuesday on the 20th. Celebrities will be the first to check out and use the phone first... Here is the list of those celebs who will be at the party. Photos to come after the party and official description of the product.... This launch party is good sign that the actual phone will be available to the general public very soon.

Performances by THE FUTUREHEADS and SHE WANTS REVENGE and spinning by DJ AM. Celebrities, VIPs and trendsetters are expected to turn out for a first look at the sleek new Sidekick 3, which has been redesigned and incorporates the latest technology in a slimmer, sexier package.

Celebrities and industry VIPs including Amare Stoudemire (NBA Phoenix Suns), Carlos Mencia (The Shield), Chris Kattan (Saturday Night Live), Clementine Ford (House MD), Corey Maggette (NBA Los Angeles Clippers), Daisy Fuentes, Dane Cook (Employee of the Month), George Stults (7th Heaven), Haylie Duff (Material Girls), Ivana Bozilovic (Wedding Crashers), JC Chasez (N’Sync), Jennifer Freeman (The O.C.), Jennifer Love Hewitt (Horse Whisper), Kaley Cuoco (8 Simple Rules), KORN (Band), Kristen Bell (Veronica Mars), Kristen Cavallari (Laguna Beach), Laura Prepon (That 70’s Show), Mark Hoppus (Blink 182), Maroon 5 (Band), Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville), Michelle Trachtenberg (Ice Princess), Nick Cannon (Wild ‘N’ Out: The Nick Cannon Show), Travis Barker....

Sidekick III Details

Added Features:
# A removable battery
# Additional storage via a miniSD card slot. A card will be included with the product.
# USB Cable and syncing
# A hands free stereo headset
# A better designed carrying case
# Improved 1.3 megapixel camera
# Bluetooth 1.2
# An improved display (65k color SXVGA)

A miniSD card will be an awesome additional that could make it a traveling mp3 player. The updated camera will be a major asset to the SK2 horrible VGA camera. Basicially the SK3 will have features that already appear in current generation cell phones.

I will be purchasing one as I do with all Sidekicks... :)

Posted by Anh at 1:20 AM | Comments (10)

April 19, 2006

Nothing but them Humps and Lovely Lady Lumps..

Tuesday March 28, 2005

Oh gosh I am way too late in posting but i wanted to share the photos and uhh yeah thats it. Pussycat Dolls are totally hot and the Black Eyed peas had the same set. Good thing? Not really... The concert was at the Gibson Amplitheatre and tha tmess was sold out Enjoy the photos..

Black Eyed Peas Concert

The Pussycat Dolls Show

Posted by Anh at 10:51 PM | Comments (0)

April 3, 2006

SUIT UP!!!!

Monday March 7th, 2006

I will keep this one short. Real short! Highlight of the day. How I Met Your Mother panel for the William S. Paley festival. This time I left extra early and made it to the Directors Guild of America complex in West Hollywood around 5.

Got there. Hung out, spoke to Christy. One of the friendly photogs I have seen before and the last time I was there. She was carrying a Star magazine and she told me how her photo of Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas making a boo boo in her shorts made it in. If guys haven’t heard of the accident, from the general observer, she peed her pants. Fergie claimed it was sweat. Either way you put it, pee or highly concentrated sweat in that general area is bad. The photo Christy shot was the SECOND time it happened. SECOND!!! Anyways.

How I Met Your Mother Gallery

Shot the cast, when they came out. Neil Patrick Harris is getting old, but soo damn funny on the show. Josh Radnor is a riot, making jokes when Cobie Smulders was doing the line. Jason Segel was known for Freaks and Geeks and Undeclared. Never watched those shows but would check them out. Alyson Hannigan, can’t help but think about her character throughout the American Pie movies.

The bitchy photogs I was around last time I was here for the Grey’s Anatomy thing, claimed out. One stayed away from me and the other was right next to me, trying to be really friendly and such. These guys work way too much with each other, some of the photogs were dishing out on each other behind the backs. As long as it gets off my shit, I am all good.

After the red carpet, then the actual panel. Watch the Pilot and the Pineapple episode. Two awesome episodes. Then to the moderated discussion and Q&A. What I found interesting about the show is that the show isn’t shot in front of a live audience like a typical sitcom. It is viewed in front of a live audience and the laughs recorded. All and all it seemed like a fun cast to work with and what not. Again, NPH is totally funny and steals the show.

Its all about the Barney-isms

Posted by Anh at 6:50 PM | Comments (0)

March 12, 2006

Paging Dr. McDreamy...

February 28th, 2006

If you don't know what my title is referring too, you're missing out on one of the best shows on television right now. I am talking about Grey's Anatomy. At first I was apprehensive about watching this show because it booted my other show, Boston Legal, out of its timeslot on Sunday. I watched an episode here and there and resented the show for the longest time. I finally got into it the second season and loved the show. The week prior, I had a Grey's Anatomy marathon, watching the first season over and the episodes to date. I thought I missed a lot, but the first season was only around 8 episodes. Anywho...

The show is apart of 2006 William S. Paley Festival. I look forward to this festival every year the Museum of TV and Radio puts on. Its just a great concept, its a rare chance to catch the creative minds and cast behind the show in one place talking about the show. Every year the festival brings in about 10 or more shows and people behind it in a panel format. A moderator asks questions and then opens the floor to the audience. In my past experience, the audiences ask questions that the panel cannot answer i.e. spoilers and arcs and/or make proposals to the cast. It wastes time for thoughtful questions and ends the panel usually on a sour note. Anywho!

Headed down to the Director Guild of America Complex, where the panel takes place. I got there pretty late since i tried to stay in the class I had before as long as i could. I made it down to the complex around 6 which was pretty much too late to arrive to shoot a red carpet. I checked in, was placed by the other photographers and I knew I was screwed. I couldn’t squeeze between anyone especially the rather large woman I have seen before. I noticed a few photogs I have seen at other events and this large woman I have to. I recall her being loud, annoying and way obnoxious. I was dead stuck behind her and her and another photog were being totally rude, acting like they are better than me. I took whatever they had to say because I was screwed either way and didn’t want to add another thorn in my side. Oh well, im here to shoot and that’s what I am going to try to do.

The whole cast eventually walked the carpet. Patrick Dempsey is a handsome dude in person weather than on the show. Sandra Oh had this totally elegant dress, Katherine Heigel was also gorgeous in her red dress. She had her boyfriend come out and pose with her. Her boyfriend? Recording artist Josh Kelly. I didn’t know she was with him and they look pretty good together. Somewhere between the first arrival and the last by Ellen Pompeo and T.R. Knight, the large woman, I think her name was Kathy and Bill the other photog in front of me engaged in an argument. One was talking about the other being condescending, arrogant and that sort of words. The other was saying how fat, bitchy, and so one the other was. I was just laughing to myself, these photogs shoot together everywhere and shit talking and so on will happen. If you think high school drama ends after high school, you're dead wrong. I learn that the funny way when I was working with strictly other adults aging over 40. Shit talking and getting in other's business will always occur.

I was just glad the tension I was feeling was off me and onto someone else. However next time they people try to talk down to me, I will open my mouth the next time. I ran out of the place, I didn’t check if I had a press ticket waiting or if one became available to sit in the panel. I had the Ice Cube listening party to hang out at afterwards.

Up Sunset to LA Weekly to meet Ben. Before I got there, I observed a crazy accident. Picture this, 2 lanes going East on Sunset with traffic with the far right lane fairly open due to street parking and such. Then imagine someone on the opposite side making a left turn, going right as I observe on my side. This truck who made a left was cautiously passing one lane, and then another, and then the final one because they were cleaned onto the turn street. Now here comes an 80’s Corolla zooming down the far lane, going about 40 MPH. The car hit dead on not before slamming on the brakes and T-Boned the truck. After that impact, it made the truck pretty much go in a semi circle. Like say you make a left turn and after the car hit it, it kept on making a turn. I thought that was kind of interesting and the Corolla didn’t seem too messed up. Ehh, drove along and off I go.

Met up with Ben at the Weekly and walked down to the place. I don’t recall the name of the place, ATG or something we will say. It was a pretty old school place that looked like a place with a few recording studios. Checked on in and headed straight to the food. There was a buffet with 2 open bars. I didn’t feel like attacking the bars since I was already a little pissed of the events prior. Its not that I cared these people were talking shit, but I cared about the results of my photos.

The buffet consisted of fried chicken, rice with beans, collard greens, mac and cheese and corn bread. The food was sooo bland; the stuff didn’t even taste like anything. The fried chicken didn’t taste fried, the rice and beans needed salt, the greens was cold, mac and cheese tasted like macaroni pasta with orange food coloring, but the corn bread was BOMB! I haven’t had that in ages and you can’t really mess that up. I didn’t care much about the food since it was around 8 and the only meal I had all day.

Hung out in the room where the music was playing. Ice Cube’s new album, Laugh Now, Cry Later. It hits the stores June 6th, 2006. Yes, 06/06/06. Talk about a statement huh? Anyways, seems like he is doing heavy promotion with a listening party 4 months before the actual album drops, but I am not complaining, Listening to the album blaring over the speakers, the album isn’t too bad.

Here I am grubbing away on the photo, chilling out. Nate Dogg is chillin next to me with his bodyguard and girl. Bob from Vibe is all over the place. We didn’t this for about two hours before we left. Ice Cube showed up around 9ish and took photos. It was said he was going to perform, but maybe not. I didn’t catch it if he did.

Adding to the highlight of that day, I received an email that at first made me angry and kinda shocked me, but I found it way amusing afterwards. What did it say? I wont go into it, but I do have a statement for visitors. This is my blog, a blog is short for web log. A log is another word for journal. Result? An internet journal. I will not censor myself on my own website, and will be very opinionated and blunt about the on goings that take place in my life. If you have a problem, don’t read it. No one forced you to. You choose to type in the url and proceed to read. But I digress. There are other panels in the festival and hopefully I will be attending and shooting.

I love McGrey's McAnatomy

Posted by Anh at 10:59 PM | Comments (1)

February 27, 2006

Mega Producer gets by with a little help from his friends..

Thursday February 23rd, 2006

Skateboard P!!! Pharrell Williams concert with a couple buddies at the Arrowhead Pond. On the bill were of course Pharrell William, Bobby Valentino, Keisha Cole, Tierra Mari, and One.

I had to go through about 100 hoops to try to get some access to the event. I have never heard the company who is handling promotion for the concert event. I had to get send an application; send a letter and a business card. After I was approved, I was going through more hoops trying to get tickets and a photo pass. They would only allow one name attached to either the review tickets or photo pass. Too much trouble. I decided to get the photo pass and I made sure that I wasn’t going to taken to a holding area after the song allowance. I was assured I wasn’t going to be, yet when I was sent a photo release with the media rules; it stated photographers would be going to a holding area. I emailed the PR chick about it and didn’t hear from her. Oh well. Off to the Pond.

Picked up Leslie, and took her car to the Pond. I didn’t want to drive it but my car was acting up. The Escalade is a larger car than what I am used to driving and I had to be aware of the size and streets. The drive took about a good hour. Anaheim isn’t too far and traffic isn’t too bad. Just the merging of the 60 and 10 freeway to get on the 57 is horrible.

Got to the Pond, it wasn’t crowded at all since it was only 6. Got to the usual gate 6, checked my name, and parked. Headed into the North Eastern private entrance thingy and checked in. I didn’t have my tickets; tickets weren’t available until later an hour before doors opened. There was some VIP pre party thing going on and had to go to the other entrance. Before I got there, Ben was right behind me. I knew he was going to cover it and I haven’t spoke to him for awhile. We headed on to the other entrance and no one knew anything. The security guards didn’t have a list, the chicks checking people in didn’t know what was going on. It was ridiculous. They had a make shift red carpet with no flood lights, very unprofessional if you ask me.

We stood around trying to figure out what was going on. Security guard asking other people what was going on, someone that looked like he knew what he was doing asking someone else. It was much unorganized. Eventually one of the guards gave us little lanyards with no badges on them. Got to love that. After being dicked around for awhile, and standing there for like 10 mins. We decided just to go to the check in desk, tell them our names, flash our ID cards and get some wristband for the party. We already knew we were on the list, so it didn’t matter.

Took the elevator up to the third floor. I’ve never been up there and thought it was pretty awesome to see. Right when you get off the elevator, there is a Josh Groban concert photo to the left. I guess this is the level where they have all photos of the artists who has performed there. When I was outside waiting, I heard the Clipse going through sound check. When I was up on the third floor, Pharrell was. I went to check it out and it pretty cool to check out a sound check with no one in the audience.

Now to the VIP room which was towards the left, down the hall. It was kind of crackin I guess. There was a table full of Cold Stone cups in the right side of the room. The usual finger foods at the main table, Buffalo wings, fruit, cheeses, crackers, drinks and such. They had a DJ from K-Day tearing it up. Just chatted it up with Ben and seeing whats up with such. I noticed these two chicks, who were pretty cute. Gave me a little eye candy.

One of the chicks knew Ben, it ended up being Julio G from K-Day's daughter and her cousin. What’s even funnier is that I noticed my homie Darry chillin. I haven’t seen him since High school and knew him since elementary school. I used to call his Deuce, well I still do. Just funny if you asked me. Small ass world and such. After chattering it up, headed off to the restroom and down to get my tickets. Section 209, Row D, Seats 5 and 6.

Not too bad, just headed back up to the VIP room. Chilled until it was over. People were dancing it up and enjoying the time. I was thinking weather or not if i should meet with whoever was in charge, and have them escort me back and forth to take photos, or just shoot from my seat. Ehh we shall see. I was thinking I would shoot where I was suppose to and go to my seat when escorted back.

After the VIP room was done, we decided to go to the service floor which pretty much is the backstage area. Walked around down there and there was nothing defining anything down there. We did pass by Pharrell dressing room and Robin Thicke's. I saw another photographer by Tierra Mari dressing room and asked him what was cracking with him. He was totally lost too. I didn’t want to run into the publicist running the concert, and have her make me be escorted. Pretty much booked it out of there and went to our seats.

Saw the other photographers near the sound board. I went over and talked to Wild Don Lewis. He shoots for the LA Weekly, and asked him a few things about what was going on. Initially the photo allowance was 3 songs per artist but he said they changed it to 2 songs. I also asked him what the situation was, and they were seated in front of the soundboard and the publicist was sitting at the far end.

Headed to my seat and Tierra Mari was opening. I pulled out my camera and took a few shots. It kind of weird to be sitting in a seat with a 2 foot camera hover over the people sitting in front of you. The next act was O.N.E. Not too sure about them, at one point they had some big booty chick come out in booty shorts walking around on stage. Before that, I saw another photographer just walking around randomly. I was like, why isn’t anyone stopping him. I caught up with him, asked him what was going on and he was doing his own thing. So, I am going to do the same thing. I flashed my lanyard to the Pond security guard dudes and they left me in to the area in front of the stage behind the barricades. It wasn’t too much of a problem since there were other photographers there also.

Bobby Valentino was up next. It took awhile for him to come out. One of the other photographers told me he was taking long since he didn’t do a sound check. I felt bad talking to the photographer because I guess he was trying to talk to me when we were waiting outside to get in. I didn’t notice at all but I guess Ben and Leslie did. I didn’t mean to be a dick or whatever. While out there, rumors of Jay-Z showing up were in the air along with Snoop Dogg. Snoop Dogg is the typical suspect. Bobby was so not in tune, it sounded like crap big time. Shot my photos and hung out stage left. There were a lot of people chillin there but what you going to do. After Mr. Valentino was done, it headed into intermission. They weren’t allowing free access to the backstage area from the stage and had to take the elevator down. I have never been at the Pond without it being sold out and tonight was a little over half capacity. Whoever promoted the event did not do a very good job or Pharrell doesn’t have that much of a pull. Who knows?

Headed back to meet up with Leslie and Ben and then went to meet up with the girls from the VIP Room, Dominic and Doreen. Went down to staging/service area also known as the VIP area. Pharrell was chilling and the girls got a photo with him. He was sporting his Ice Cream clothing brand; the shoes, hat, shirt, letterman’s, and pants. The whole sha-bang.

I wanted the whole gang down there because a backstage view is a better and closer view. However the security and the so called fire marshal weren’t letting people to the sides of the stage. Of course I pleaded my case that I was taking photos and was allowed, however the others were not. Hung out until the next act and Tyrese was coming up to me and the door to the stage I was at. He was bitching about why he was coming through the door and not the other. I guess it’s understandable since everyone else was going through that door.

Ran out and took a few photos of him. People hate on him since he’s been all movies and not music much anymore. He had a chick on stage and pretty much groped her while she was sitting on stage. Nothing too special outta him.

Headed back to the back stage and hung with the girls. Met a dude from Dub magazine and saw Omarion heading out to the stage. I didn’t even catch Robin Thicke go to the stage and ran back out there. His first song was on Piano and it seems to have a lot more photographers in the area along with videographers. Those video guys were running into everyone and getting in shots. It was quite annoying.

No one was really following the songs. Robin was saying how his first album didn’t go anywhere. I don’t recall him back in the day but only heard of him when I downloaded a video and Pharrell was on the track. He recently was signed to Pharrell’s Star Trak record label and the beat is totally a Pharrell beat. The last song Thicke performed was “Wanna Love You Girl” and I expected Pharrell to pop out but he didn’t. Oh well.

Pharrell was up next. Went back backstage, nothing was going on really. Told the guards to let Ben to the side and they did. Now for Pharrell, that got everyone out of their seats. There was a chick in the front crying and she didn’t stop even after he was done.

Pharrell started off with “Can I Have it Like That,” went into one song I don’t remember and then into “Frontin” and then introduced the Clipse. The Clipse did their hits which was pretty tight. Reminded me when I saw them and Pharrell at Jimmy Kimmel. One of the tightest shit I saw during this event was when during one of the songs, Pharrell was air producing. Like instead of air guitar, he was acting he was on the drum machine and on some turn tables. It was soo tight, it went alogn with the song and just man so tight to see..

Omarion came out after to perform. I was surprised, I mean I saw him but didn’t think he was there for a reason. As I think about it, I think Pharrell did some beats for Omarion. He did his songs and his dance solos and such. Pharrell was chilling by the DJ and I tried to get his attention to shoot a pic.

The next guest was an oblivious one, Snoop Dogg. He didn’t come up until Pharrell introduced his Ice Cream Skate team which consisted of 2 dudes and his bro. Snoop came out with ice cream hoodie. That looked pretty damn tight. They did the usual “Drop it Like its Hot” and “Beautiful.” At this point, I was already damn tired and once I had my shots, I left towards the back. I did that prematurely because once I stepped foot back there, someone else was on stage and the audience went crazy.

It was friggin Nelly. I noticed Pharrell was looking back to the backstage a lot when he was up there with Snoop. Guess that’s why. What the hell was he doing here? I was totally caught off guard and was so hyped up from it. Some chick behind me kept on screaming, "Show us your girlls Nelly, show us!." Annoying real fast, real quick. When i turned to look at her, that chick that was crying, was STILL crying. They went into “Play it Off,” it was soo tight to see. After that song, Pharrell put him on blast and had him perform “Hot in Herre.” You can tell Nelly was surprised but got into it quickly, then of course into “Grillz.” I haven’t heard much of the song but everyone is saying they hate it because it’s being played too much. I enjoyed the heck out of their performance and went back to the stage.

Met up with Ben and Nelly was running off, while lotta people were trying to take photos with him. It was a human traffic event back there. I looked over to Ben and was saying how Snoop had like 6 huge body guards on stage. I mean I understand it when it was his premiere, but on stage? Goodness. I noticed this dude in front of me look back and I could kinda tell what he was thinking. He was thinking, “This guy is an idiot.” Then I noticed it was Lil Fizz from B2K, what is he doing here? Guess he’s cousins with Omarion and is apart of his entourage. Walked pass Pharrell’s dressing room and the night was finally done.

Leslie and the girls were at their seats watching it from there since the Robin Thicke performance. As for Robin Thicke, the last name was familiar, I mean Alan Thicke from Growing Pains. I didn’t think a thing of it, until one of the security guards asked me and I didn’t know for sure. One of the event dudes confirmed it and was totally surprised.

Met up with Leslie, and left the place. It was barely 10 minutes after the show as done before we got to the car. Usually the exit from the parking would be a pain, but it was such a ease tonight. It was really really weird. Oh well. Headed home in record time, didn’t worry so much about the driving. Got some food and that was that.

You can have it like that....

Posted by Anh at 3:31 PM | Comments (2)

February 26, 2006

Hilary Duff's Older Sis Birthday Party...

Saturday February 18th, 2006

Hayls birthday. Her 21st, finally legal to drink. Hurrays! Her party was at Casablanca in Hollywood. I never heard of the place but when i got there, it was actually called White Lotus. I know that place, but not the other. I found out i guess the owners is changing the name to that or something. Not too sure. MTV was shooting a pilot there, something about C list stars and how they live their life or something. Haylie Duff's boyfriend was hosting the show or whatever. He put on the birthday party too and his energy drink, "Freedom" was sponsoring the whole thing.

I got there around 8ish. I noticed that you can’t make left turns at the lights with no turn signals between certain times. That sucks but oh well. Got the car valet and headed across the street to the club. It started sprinkling, I had this energy and weakness at the same time. I was feeling still under the weather, but I never learn to stay home and relax.

Got over there and noticed right away Long. I met him back at the Laguna Beach thing, hes the owner of Belong Clothing. Chatted with him for a little and waited to get in a bit. I had to wait a little bit, talked to Nancy, who was one in charge. I noticed Mekenzie Rossam from 7th Heaven walk the carpet. I dont watch the show anymore, but when i catch it here and there, Ruthie has gotten older and discovered makeup. Its just kinda freaky to think about, and it doesnt help that this night she was wearing short shorts and had a little booty. Thats all I will say about that for now.

Not too many photographers there, I noticed Michael from Wireimage. He covered Christina Martins birthday party when i was there last year. Chatted with him and he was the buddy for the night on the carpet. Dont know why but they had aerial arts chicks hovering over the red carpet. I wanted to look up and check it out, but i dont wanna look at weird moments while the chick does something. I dont wanna look like some perv or something.

Haylie came and did the red carpet. I complimented her dress and little and took the pictures. Hilary came too but did do the carpet. She came and hit the red carpet with Haylie after awhile. Joel Madden from Good Charlotte said he was going to do the carpet but he didnt. It was quite annoying but he seem to not mind when it was the intouch interviewer. Oh well..

Rumors of certain people showing up, Pussycat Dolls, Jennifer Love Hewitt, The Simpson girls, Paris Hilton and her ex-boyfriend Paris Lazeus or whatever. The Simpson girls werent there because their father was having a his birthday party. Jennifer Love Hewitt was having her own birthday party in Vegas. Why would Paris Hilton be here and so on.

Nancy and I chatted some more. I so recall her from somewhere and couldnt put a finger on it. Whats funny is that her ex-boyfriend is friends with one of my Editors. Small ass world if you ask me. She invited me to her birthday party and wanted me to cover some charity event she was doing in Diego. Im down, never done the theme party thing. Golf Pros and Tennis Hoes. We shall see if i can make it down to Diego.

After the carpet was dead, I finally had a chance to make it into the party. Before I went in, her cake came on in. It had a princess Barbie doll on top of it. Well its her birthday and party I suppose. Man the place was crowded as heck. There was an outside patio area that had a live band. As you walk in, you see the coat check and restrooms. The left side was the patio area along with the sushi restuarant looking place. The right side headed to the dance area and the vip room. Once you get into the area of the dance floor, you noticed the elevated vip section and then the long long club with the bar at the far end. The smoking area is towards your right once the turn right into the dance floor.

Headed onto the VIP area and they werent letting people in at the moment. They sang the happy birthday song when i was still outside, so Im assuming it was a little private time. I checked in my camera and made the way to the bar. Got a a vodka tonic, but not after a long wait. I didnt wait so i didnt mind. Long was there hanging out, and chatted with him and his chick he brought, Sabrina. He kept on trying to get me out to his birthday party. I think he asked me like 5 times to get a straight answer. I just told him id try to make it out and wanted to know where it would be. He party was Thursday and i had the Pharrell and Friends concert to cover.

After the DMV wait at the bar, headed back to the VIP area. The security dude was being a jerk still, saying how he reconigze me and the group. It was totally annoying. I tried to explain to him that I wasnt able to go in yet because I was outside shooting. One of the PR dudes was in there and i tried to tell him whats up. Eventually he told the security dude what was up. At that point, didnt want to stick much anymore. Feeling under the weather was still getting to me. I had a few cupcakes, and got my gift bag, and left out of there. I mean there were some real freaks in there dancing it up, but feeling ill is not a good thing to dance with.

Left the place, it was already dying down anyways. Decided to get some Roscoes's Chicken and Waffles. I kinda wanted Pink's. I usually never leave LA after a night of clubbing without one of them street hot dogs and I never had Pink's, so i wanted it. Roscoe's was just down the street and got that. Wait wasnt too bad. Just the typical waffles and chicken of course. I love it. Then headed on home. All and all a pretty cool night.

Posted by Anh at 6:30 PM

The Semi-Finals...

Thursday February 17th, 2006

Ballroom dancing.. who does that? Really old people and gays right? I’m just stating the stereotypes. I guess last year top rating show in the summer, Dancing with the Stars, changed it all up. They use the word, "Stars" very loosely, what can you do? The word celebrity is such a general title.

Enough of that ranting, and with that, I still decided to attend a taping of Dancing with the Stars. I decide to go due to 2 reasons. Michael Bublé was performing and i had VIP seating and access. Some might know, some might, but all shows with studio audiences have some outside service that fills the seats in for them. Most of the time it’s open to whoever knows of this service and get tickets to sitcoms and such. If you know this route, you are usually showing up early and waiting in line for hours. If it’s a taped show, you will be waiting longer since production can take their sweet time unlike live shows that have to go live at a set time. Anyways, bottom-line I already stated the reasons why I’m going to see some dancing.

Drive wasn’t bad.. The bad thing that had to deal with the driving was actually getting into the studio lot. The turn into the studio, Genesee Ave. The light doesn’t have a turn signal, so you have to wait and wait until no cars are coming or steal a yellow. One light passed and I couldn’t squeeze in since there was no room to enter, second light i get rear ended.. You never expect to feel the thud of someone hitting you but when it happens of course you think what the fuck. I look in my rear view mirror and see the lady in the truck say, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. I jump out looked, nothing, she asked if there was damage, i said no and got back into my car. At this point the general audience was lining up outside the gates of CBS Television City, they were all looking and I missed my second light. Third times the charm as always.

Check in with the guard, and parked.. I got there around 2:50ish. Check in with the VIP entrance and they weren’t letting people in until 3:20ish. Just hung out, walking around a little bit and hanging out in my car. At one point I wanted to use the restroom just so i don’t have to do it later. I went into this hanger looking place right before the main entrance for VIPs. Pretty much the backstage area of the studio and i asked the security lady where the bathroom was. She just pointed and said around the corner. Too bad there were 3 entrance type things and no corners. I asked her again like twice and same answer, all while i was walk towards the entrances. I like did a minny mynny mo while still asking and still nothing. Eventually just walked towards the exit door and made my way. I see a line with mostly woman and a few men. But we all know, woman restroom lines are really long and there’s usually never a line at the men’s. I looked up at the signs and made sure it was the men’s. Open the door and walked in briefly and saw an old woman drying her hands with a paper towel and backed up out of there. There was a man who was saying both were only open to women only and if i needed to id have wait. There were a few laughs from the women, but I didn’t even feel embarrassed at all. Honest mistake and they saw me coming and didn’t say anything. Whatever. I just backed on up out of there and headed back.

After some more waiting.. We were led into the studios. We had our names on the seats reserved for us. My seat was at stage right, third row of seats. Sat down, waited for everyone else to filter in before the general audience were seated. Of course the studio and stage looked smaller in person than on television. It’s just funny on how the difference is.

Eventually people were seated and a pre show warming up dude came out. He had various competitions with each side. Dancing, singing, and more random dancing. The dancing was quite funny. There weird 80s old old chicks with feather boas and big hair came and sang locomotion. It was ironically, a train wreck.

After a few games, Michael Bublé recorded his performances.. First song was Moondance with the professional dancers. The female dancer’s grand parents were in front of me. Very cute if you asked me, the granddaughter that is. Next song was Save the Last Dance For Me. Max Chmerkovskiy and Edyta Sliwinska danced that song, and that was a hot number. That was pretty much it for the taped performances and off to the live stuff. Nothing special, just a lot of filler recorded stuff. The only dancing I saw live were the professional stuff and the host, Tom Bergeron. His partner was Ashly DelGrosso, she is a cutie.

Enough of that. I was looking about for Nick Lachey which he wasn’t there nor Drew’s wife. Mark Hamil was there, a row in front of me to my left. I remember talking to his a few years about at The Last Samurai premiere I think.

Now for the results. Drew Lachey was the obvious one and then the surprise was Jerry Rice. I was totally shocked and started the Jerry chant which echoes all over the studio. You knew at that point Lisa Rinna was going to the finals since the last two was her and Stacey Keibler. Of course it went to commercial break and back from it, got the result. That was that. Lisa made a comment about only having a few soul mates in life and her partner, Louis was one of them. I don’t know how I would feel if this dude is all over my wife, dancing and otherwise. I caught a little weird vibe myself but what you gonna do.

Audience was ushered out of the studio. I hung out and noticed Stacy went to say hi to Torrie Wilson. I didn’t even know she was there. I remembered her from when I used to watch wrestling. Media interviews were done on the dance floor with all the usual suspects, Access Hollywood, The Insider and so on. Hung out to check out the dancers and such but left. There was an after show party thing, but it was raining and didn’t want to deal with traffic. Too bad I was stuck in it for 2 hours. Good way to spend my Friday.

I wouldnt be surprise if Jerry Rice takes it all

Posted by Anh at 11:49 AM | Comments (0)

January 16, 2006

Scrubs 100th episode celebration..

I like to start of saying i have never watched the show but im going to start. Scrubs that is. I did watch the premiere, which was hilarious!! I have 5 seasons to catch up with the show, which isn’t so bad. With the internet and TV Shows on DVD. I’ll be fine. I mean im on the third season of the Sopranos, which doesn’t mean anything since there is 10 seasons I think.

Off to LA once again... to the Cabana Club.. I looked up the site before I headed over there and wow this place is really really nice. It’s right off at Ivar next to the Arclight Cinema. I have been there 100s of times at the Arclight and didn’t even know the club was right there.

Checked in and hung out at the red carpet. They placed me right next to the reporters, but i was here to shoot the carpet. There was a photographer area and i noticed 2 photographers. I gave them the peace sign, well the peace sign was to the dude out of the group. I saw both of them earlier in the week at the Miss America thing. I guess the dude didn’t noticed and the heavy set dude next to him thought i was saying what’s up to him. Ehh whatever.

I was glad I was away from them, since there were over 10 photogs over there, which will all get the same shot. I’m trying to have the mentality of taking a different shot and taking another angle. But for whatever reason, me standing away from them, in a sense better position on the carpet. I felt that they felt i was getting special treatment and they were a little pissed about it. I mean i was standing right next to the house photographer who was shooting from NBC/Touchtone Entertainment. A house photog ALWAYS gets a hand up on the other photographers. Location, access and of course treatment. Ehhh whatever.. It sorta bothered me, them looking over at my general direction. I didn’t care. I’m glad I didn’t have to yell with the other photographers. When the cast walked by, I asked nicely for them to back up to the poster and i shoot their photo and the house photog would then also. We had a great routine working for us before they were attacked by the mob at the photo area.

I had a buddy there, well a buddy just met. Jolie reporting for a British music magazine called MMC or NNC or something. She was awesome, we exchanged thoughts

Everyone from the cast was great. Donald is as charismatic as you would think. I wanted to challenge him in some XBOX since he’s an avid gamer. John C. McGinley was funny talking about how he wanted to have Elle McPherson as a guest star as his forbidden lover. The people with Judy Reyes was very very nice and loved talking to them. Rather I don’t want to be here type mood was Zach Braff. Barely did the press line and or photos. Sarah Chalke publicist seemed like she was either drunk or on pain killers by the way she was slurring her words and making comments about Sarah telling long stories.

Samantha Harris from E! was chillin. Looking decently cute. Wanted to say hi and ask about Vegas when she was doing the Comedy Festival. I was already caught up in my own thing. Oh mainly it was the cast who were the celebrities who attended but Mandy Moore was in the house. She is really really cute. I asked her publicist if she was doing Entourage this season but she didn’t know and after I took photos of Mandy I asked her. She was confused and said not that she knows of. Dude it was a valid question since they sorta left her in the air last season.

I was surprised the wait wasn’t too bad and everyone seems to come in an orderly fashion. After all the red carpet people arrived, everyone left. Press people I mean. I decided to stay around and wondered if I wanted to actually stay at the party. After the photographers left, the house photog hung around to shoot one last group shot. I was glad I stayed back since only 3 photographers actually got this shot.

Chatted a bit a little with the cast members but decided to leave. Only why I would stay was to check out the open bar and the food. But I took in the ambience of the club and headed back home… First thing on the agenda once I get home is to purchase whatever seasons they have available.

I like to state before I end this post... Garden State wasnt all that great of a movie.. Direction and Cinematography was great hands down. Story and mood of the film was way too EMO!!! Thats all im going to say, i could really rant on and rant but i wont...

View more photos from the event

Sucks the show is going to end this season... i think. thats what i hear..

Posted by Anh at 1:19 AM | Comments (6)

December 17, 2005

Night of Celebration... and mourning... for Snoop Dogg that is...

Last Monday December 12th, 2005

I honestly don’t know how i got up this morning. I went to bed at 1 trying to catch up on sleep since i had a final and what i thought was going to be a long Monday night. All i recall was tossing and turning actually not falling asleep until 3 and waking up at 5am, 6am, and finally up at 9:30ish AM.

Had an econ final at 10:45PM. Id say a really easy one if you ask me. 30 questions multiple choice, if only all my classes were like this. Id be out of this black hole of community college. Head on over to class, and finished it in a good 20 mins.

Ran some errands all day. But not as much as i planned really. Went home to go over some things, and i really need to get my list together my Christmas cards. I decided to put some See's candy in the cards, so that they don’t seem too boring with just a card. Figured See's candy would be the best bet and i will have to go get that another day.

Headed on over to Target since i figured they would have some bulk Christmas cards. Made Alex drive because i was feeling way too lazy. When i got there, i saw a Hallmark and thought to go in there. Found a box of 32 cards for about 8 bucks, and they weren’t crappy ones either. Very elegant, detailed, and some had glittered up. Ok while i was there, an attractive lady, showed me a card and asked, "Does this look like a card a grandmother would send." I told her no not really. After i paid for my cards and left. I thought to myself, was she a grandmother herself? She was a little too young looking and really hot to be one. Then i thought maybe she was getting it for a grandmother to send out or even she was making sure the cards she got didn’t make her look like a grandmother sending a card.

Off to get something to eat, went to Carls Jr and treated Alex. The chick that was taking our order, too cute to be working there at Fast Food. Man as i think about that, it is too and in our mentality, pretty people we think should be more privileged.

Got home and got ready. Off to LA once again!! The drive wasn’t too bad, i actually got pass the 110 Freeway before i hit any traffic. For some reason, it was really annoying to be in.

Arrived at LA Weekly for a few seconds then off to the Snoop movie premiere, for his straight to DVD release, Boss'n UP. The premiere was at the Silent Movie Theatre off of Fairfax. Wasn’t too far from the Weekly. Drove right by the place, saw the Marquee and the small front where the red carpet is.

Parked in the neighborhood in the back and walked on over. Saw Steve or Same, forgot his name from the publicity firm handling the premiere. I recall seeing him in the press tent in Vegas at the Comedy Festival and in the press room there. We were placed at the end of the red carpet, but it wasn’t even that long. I say i good 50 feet across, which was mostly occupied by huge security dudes and the 5 or so publicists.

Nothing really happend for an hour, from 7 to 8 nothing. We were promised that Snoop will be there by 8 so we just waited. UPN 13, FOX 11, MTV News, CNN were there. GMTV, Good Morning Television based out of the UK was also there. So all of us, just staring at each other, trying to make the time go by. Man i was blabbing about random things here and there. Saw some really hoochie girls, dress hella hoochie, and butts that you could actually put a drink on. That’s no exaggeration. And the girls weren’t even big in frame, i say fair petite if you asked me with butts that were whoa!!

Here’s an interesting thing, i've have talked to Snoop personal publicist here and there, dealing with events of his. I received quite sporadic responses and what not, even Ben has had the same experience. I overheard a conversation that pointed out Meredith, his publicist was there. Found it a surprised she didn’t even come to introduced herself to any of us. Whatever.

FINALLY! Snoop arrives around 7:50 in a dark van. He was just named the executive producer of XM Satellite Radio's classic hip-hop channel. It took him quite awhile to get out of the van, not of course without having 3 huge security guard dudes and the entourage. An entourage that wasn’t as large as you would imagine, but then again this event isn’t that big.

First was the 3ft x 3ft section where Snoop posed for 2 seconds of photos. Dressed in a jacket with a black shirt that says "Save Tookie.org." Tonight at 12:05, Tookie Williams is slated for execution by lethal injection. Kinda trippy to see Snoop have this movie premiere while he was going to be executed a few hours later. I noticed his chain around his neck, 2 dogs on top of each other and it hit me that it meant a sexual act. Fun.
Shot pictures here and there where i could find some real estate on the sidewalk, most of the time hanging off it. Snoop was talking very very softly, it was really hard to hear. He did pull out a photo of him and Tookie which was shot December 2nd, when he went to support Williams’s clemency. Wasn’t too long of a red carpet. Saw Ryan from The Source magazine there, he’s the west coast editor for the mag and i met him a few months ago at the Alicia Keys concert. Chatted a little, looks like he’s working on a Tookie Williams piece and some quotes from Snoop would be a great add.

Had that party thing a little later, and right when we were leaving. Ben noticed one of Snoops's guy Ted Sing, his right hand man hanging out. Talked to him a little bit, introduced us to his cousin and asked us if we were going. Wasn’t too sure if we could, but since like Snoops go to man, it wouldn’t have been a problem. I wouldn’t have mind to go in, but i wanted to see how that other event was. Ben talked it up to him to see if an interview was going to happen or not. Ted assure him that it was going to happen for sure, when the busyness dies down.

Off to Beverly Hills to the Camden House. Man, Beverly Hills looks a lot nicer than what i remember. Well the Beverly Hills area around Rodeo Drive and what not. Got into the place, this bar, lounge restaurant. I wanted to bring in my camera to take some pictures, but I didn’t want to shoot then go back to put it away and just left it. When i got into the place, wasn’t much of a red carpet. It was just a backdrop hanging next to the bathroom and the bar.

First sign it was going to be a whatever night at this place. Not an open bar, c’mon now, party and not an open bar? Then again it was a charity benefit and maybe the profits when to the charity. They did have a few charity things up in the silent auction. The only thing that was interesting was the Lawrence "LT" Taylor signed Helmet. I think it was an Eagles or Falcons helmet, i dont recall. As you can tell im not big on football really.

Nothing was going on really, i wouldn’t have mind going back to the movie to watch and then come back over here. I asked Ben, didn’t give a response, so i just hung out and chatted it up on my sidekick and observed the "red carpet." I didn’t even know who anyone was getting their photos taken. Only person i noticed was Rex Lee from Entourage which i saw at the Tyra Banks party. I kinda wanted to talk to him and see if i could pull an interview and maybe a visit to a set filming. I did notice this short Asian chick but i couldn’t put my finger on it who she was. I just didn’t see anyone i wanted to shoot, i wouldn’t have mind shooting the cute chick who plays the daughter "War at Home" and i dont recall the rest on the tip sheet. Usually they dont show up anyways..

Since nothing was happening, no one really, music kinda sucked. Like it wasn’t really danceable, the food going around was minimum consisting on finger food versions of crab cakes, satay, and bake potatoes of what i saw. We decided to leave around 9:30. I wanted to maybe stay or go to that movie but whatever. The birthday girl, Christina Martin was in a pretty hot red dress, ones you might see in a ballroom dancing competition. All glammy and shiny!

Off we go, back to the Weekly to get my car. This was the second time where i left early to something i was planning to stay at, but i wasn’t driving. But I will be driving once i get back to my car. While warming up my car, i was deciding weather or not if i should go back to the party.. This time i wouldn’t have to worry about someone else... Did i go back?? Ill leave that up whoever might have talked to at the Camden House after getting my car..

Whats my mother effin name....??

Posted by Anh at 7:55 PM | Comments (0)

December 4, 2005

All that Jazz!!!

Last Thursday December 1st, 2005

YES!!! I missed Chris Botti opening up for Josh Groban in Vegas, and i missed him at the Greek back in October. But today!! I shall see him for sure!!! What got me even more excited is that he will be joined with special guests for a Live DVD and a PBS special. Who will be joining him?? Sting, Jill Scott, Gladys Knight, Renee Olstead, Paul Buchanan, Bert Bacharach and Paula Cole. Mother effin RENEE OLSTEAD!! She gone on tour with BB King on a few dates and i wanted to go just to see her. I haven’t heard her whole debut album just yet, but the duets she’s done with Chris Botti are amazing, and made me fall in love with her. Plus she’s also a little cutie.

I decided to plan a full day of fun in LA. Its a Thursday and didn’t have much planned to do. I did have a meeting with to install some hardware for a client from the company i just recently joined. I wanted to hit up the [LA] Weekly to meet up with Ben and go over our Christmas card list for our various contacts and what not to give some thanks. Time was a crunch though.

Headed over to FIDM, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Picked up Leslie from outta her class. Never been there before and wanted to see what its all about. I didnt know it was downtown, like literary downtown LA, pretty close to the Staples Center and Convention Center.

First stop of the day, the Beverly Center. I’ve never been there and passed by it after leaving the Tyra Banks party. I was like, oh wow, lets see what’s the big deal about this place is. When i was doing research and making sure where I was going today. Beverly Center, Robertson Ave, and Wilshire Theatre pretty much were in the same few square mile radius.

I guess Leslie wanted to hit up Loehmann's. A block away from the Beverly Center and it was a place to park. I guess the whole concept of this store was top name designer brands at a pretty good discount. I honestly didn’t want to look around because its depressing to shop when you cant buy everything you want. Plus i didn’t see much, the whole place was like a designer brand TJ MAXX or Ross. When i say designer brands i mean like Armani, Juicy Couture, Marc Jacobs, and so on.. I wanted to pick up this Juicy Couture purse for someone, someone who said if i got it for them for Christmas, they would get me my William Rast jacket... Ehh.. Im too impatient, and lack a trust bone in my body. My plan was to just get it myself today...

After some depressing shopping. Walked on over to the Beverly Center. The way that place is set up with pretty cool. From the street, you gotta get on like 5 escalators before you get on the first floor of the shopping mall. While going up each escalator, you see the parking complex.

Seeming like i was taking the escalators to see my creator, right around the corner on the last escalator was heaven. A shoppers heaven! I wanted to hit up Bloomingdales, since the William Rast line is supposed to be selling there. This is what shopping is all about. The great band of clothing, not too high end like Versace, but about middle such as Energie, and French Connection. That had each brand in their own little section along the wall and around the middle. It was very organized and you don’t have to search your way through types of clothing. It was pretty rad. They had a 40 to 50 percent off sale on most of the stuff and man i wanted some stuff. Again depressing.. What can you do? Still looking for that sugamomma!!

Walked around the place a little bit to get a feel of the stores and what not. Very very high end shops, but what do you expect for being in Beverly Hills. Off to Robertson Ave baby!! My jacket was waiting for me at Kitson..

For whatever effin reason, the streets didn’t make any sense!! One said was saying North and the numbers would ascended, and the other side would be South descending. However, pass a block and it would be opposite. I just didn’t get it and dude i swear i think i turned around about 5 times in about 30 mins. I was getting so dang irritated and what got me on edge was i didn’t know which light had a red light camera. I would think about passing the same intersection about 3 times, i would know. But i didn’t even pay attention at all. Passed by the pretty famous Kabblah center that Madonna frequents and Paris Hilton has been seen there.

I eventually just kept on going North until the area looked familiar. I’ve seen it many times on those Entertainment shows about celebrities shopping there with paparazzi swarming around. Parked in a neighborhood that allowed parking until 6 without a permit. It was 5:30 PM, just an easy come in and go. Walking around the corner, i see high above on the buildings, lights flashing. Didn’t know what it was, but once i turned the corner on Robertson Ave. I see the flashes come closer, and guys holding cameras. I see a tall, and somewhat attractive girl getting photographed. Of course, it had to be someone of somewhat importance. Well not importance, but someone worth having those flash bulbs go off. It was Tara Reid, the part girl herself. He was wearing heels, and was looking pretty slim and fit. Compared to her canceled Taradise, where she looks really trashy, drunk, and rather padded. Today, she looked really really hot. Then i wished i took out my sidekick phone to take a pic for the heck of it. Oh well, Kitson was right there and just went on in. I didn’t want to waste anytime, because i was sure id get more depress looking at all this great clothes and not being able to purchase it. Got some help, got the jacket, checked it out in the mirror, bought it and off we go. The person who helped me told me the line has only been out 2 Thursday ago, i know Kitson premiered the line. Im hoping im on of the few, better if first to sport this jacket and line. Walked into the Lisa Kline Mens store, and again more amazing clothes. BLAH!!..

Back to the car, and changed into the jacket. Hung out a little bit, and thought to find something to eat. I haven’t eaten all day, and it was 6 and Leslie didn’t eat anything else. Didn’t know where to eat and i didn’t care, Leslie found her mothers ATM card that she said she didn’t have. Headed off to Bank of America. She wanted this jacket at Loehmann's jacket but couldn’t pull enough out from the account. Oh well. As i think about it, the store name pretty much sounds like Low Man's. I just thought that was a little something.

Back to Robertson Ave, since Leslie saw a jacket she wanted at Kitson. Again not enough, and time for dinner. I wanted to hit up The Farm. Just wasn’t too sure where it was. The Newsroom was on Robertson, but i really wanted to eat at the Farm, since its Josh Groban fave restaurant, and i wanted to see what’s so good about the place. But just decided to eat at The Ivy. One of the most celebrity sighted restaurant in Los Angeles. Theres no celebrity who hasnt really been there, seen there, or been photographed there.

The front looked alot longer on tv, but everything looks bigger on tv. So it wasn’t a big surprised, well it was a big surprise but anywho. Went on in and got a table. The host who was seating people, asked us if we wanted patio or inside. Of course i wanted to be outside, and he made sure we relieved the table at 8:30. From my experience, well not experience but knowledge, they usually reserve prime seating at posh LA eateries for celebrities who call in last second or just walk on in. I know Koi, the ultra posh sushi/Japanese joint makes sure you leave the booths by 6:30. Afterwards, it only there for celebrities. Hate to admit it, but they do get royal treatment and are pretty elite compares to normal everyday people.

I reassured him we had to leave before 8 anyways, and we weren’t going to tie up their tables. Ordered our ice teas which was infused with mint flavor. Don’t know if i liked it much, but whatever. If you read my post about Vegas and eating at Mesa Grill. How i initially thought they were famous for crab cakes, it was The Ivy that was famous of it. I cant really describe the general theme of the restaurant. Id say something like American with some French i suppose? Who knows! Ordered the crab cakes to start and was told the specials. Nothing really caught my eye on the menu, and plus i had to keep it fairly inexpensive. Too bad that was hardly the case. I ordered the Lobster Risotto, which was one of the many specials of the night. Hey, i liked me some lobster, and Risotto had to be good. I mean i always see it being made on the Food Network, but never really had it, especially if its at a restaurant that i know would make it good. Suhh good!!

Started off with some bread. Don’t know what it was, some loaf of some sort, but it was good to start. Crabcakes came out really fast. They were decent, but i found nothing special about them. The sauce they had with it wasn’t too heavy but i had to squeeze on more lemon to get some sort of flavor out of the cakes. Quite frankly, i wasnt really impressed.

Sitting there conversing with Leslie. I overheard some Hollywood chatter from a nearby table. Something very typical in the city of Los Angeles, but i love to hear about it. The service here was impeccable. Its one of those places where your drink is topped off, if you take a sip, they would refill it type place. Most of the time, that sort of stuff would be annoying, but it was bearable here.

Now for the main course. My Lobster risotto and Leslie got some chicken enchiladas. She’s such a Mexican, but she isn’t but you get the racial stereotype. HAHA.. The plates the food came in were huge!! For good reason, there was a lot of food!! I had the risotto, where it was on top of the lobster shell they used in the risotto. Cut opened and lay flat, with the risotto just on top. It looked suhhh damn good!! The basil on top worked well with the lobster, and man there was a lot of lobster in it. I said maybe a good 5 pds lobster perhaps?? I don’t know but i was enjoying the shit out of it. However half way through, i was thinking to myself. I don’t know if lobster was in season or not, but it’s generally pretty expensive. On top of that, gourmet risotto?? Man i was so screwed when the check comes. What made me laugh, is i think today or yesterday i was watching Gilmore Girls. The episode where the food critic didnt like Suki's "magical risotto." Reason he didnt like it because he didn’t have the right wine to go with it. I was like, hmmm.. i would have ordered some wine with it. But im sure it had to be a certain kind of wine for the risotto, but since there’s fish, well shellfish it would be a different kind of wine. Enjoyed every bit of it. Which i was told isn’t proper etiquette. Leslie tells me, you have to leave 10 percent of the food left. Who the fuck says that?? Dude children are dying all over world. We, and when i said we i mean Americans, waste enough resources already. C’mon now!! Plus big bucks are being shoveled out for this food, enjoy every single bit of it. I worked as a chef at a restaurant, and the crap that gets thrown away every night is just plan uncalled for.

Oh so i get the check.. And to my disbelief, but not surprise. My damn lobster and pretty much rice was around 50 bucks. Nice huh? Love it.. And our ice teas? 5 bucks each. Hurray!! The total of the check was 109, the 20 percent tip. Came out to be 130. All in a days work baby! HAHA.. Ehh..

Off to the Wilshire Theatre.. to see Chris Botti. Hurray!! I was soo excited, i couldn’t believe. I was equally excited for Renee Olstead. Parked in the complex next door to the theatre. Saw other people i was sure was going tot he show. All dressed up and what not. I usually go dressed up but today i wanted to sport the William Rast jacket and represent. But i had a change of heart, and just put back on my button up shirt and had my blazer with me and changed into that.

Good thing i did, while waiting in line for get my tickets. There was a couple in a dressy dress and her date was wearing a tuxedo. Got my tickets and went inside to meet with Vanessa who was handling the photographers. It was good to see her, and met Chris Botti publicist and talked to her a little bit. While standing around with them i see Brian Avnet. I met and talked to Brian back at Sondheim’s at the Hollywood Bowl. He is Josh Groban's manager and also Michael Buble's. I caught up with him and talked to him a little bit. Saw how he was doing, and asked about Josh and Michael. He mentioned he was there for Renee, and i totally didn’t know that he was her manager also. I know she was on Josh and Michaels same label and David Foster produces their music, but i guess Brian manages Renee also. It was good to talk to Brian, since he’s such an awesome guy and very friendly. However, i was kicking myself, i kicked myself for not getting his card at the bowl and not asking for it again. I am so air heady when it comes to certain things, certain people and what not.

We had to shoot photos from the balcony which i thought kinda sucked. However good thing i had my long lens. There were two other photographers, i think a house photographer and the other was a photographer for Smooth Jazz magazine. Hung out for a little and man it was hot up there. Chatted with Vanessa. She’s such an awesome person. Haven’t had much conversation with her much before.

Chris Botti came on stage around 8:05 for the taping. Had a full orchestra to back him up. As i look around the theatre, its a lot smaller than other venues ive been at. It really gave the whole intimate feel with Chris, which is pretty awesome.

The started off with "Someone to Watch Over Me." Chris in a very clean cut suit with a purple dress shirt under. Next was "When I Fall in Love." The first song i shot near the other photographers on the side balcony and afterwards i headed off to the middle of the balcony and to the other side. The best place to shoot was where we were initially at. Gave me a better view and had Chris bigger in my shot. The last song we were allowed to shoot was "A Thousand Kisses Deep," one of my favorite songs of Chris. So it was kinda hard to shoot, however i just shot and shot away.

The song after the third i wasn’t too sure about. It didn’t matter since i had to pack up and check in my equipment so that i can watch the rest of the show. One of the head dudes of the theatre, Ralph lead us into the office on the semi second floor of the place. Checked it on in and went to my seat. A way better view than on the balcony.

Sting was next.. Performing "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life." Dressed in a grayish jacket, pinstripe slacks, and a skinny scarf. He was looking really good, and his voice was just as amazing.

Next, Paula Cole comes out to sing, "My One and Only Love." Her voice was soo magical on this song, live and on the album. Dressed in this suit type deal, her harmony with Botti's trumpet is heavenly. She hung around for the next song, "The Look of Love" with Bert Bacharach who composed this song on the piano.

Chris told a story about how he watched Cinema Paradiso with his mother in Italy. How it was one of the sadness movies he seen with subtitles. The main song from the movie, "Se" ive learn about the song hearing Josh Groban album. It was a nice rendition on the trumpet. The backdrop had what i assumed as Italy's skyline. What came down from above were two lighted lamp things. It was really awesome.

The guest stars didn’t stop at all. One after the other came on coming out. The weird thing is that Chris seemed to perform off set. Like he doesn’t perform with a set list of songs, or maybe he didn’t tonight because of the DVD taping and everyone backstage. Jill Scott, next on the menu. Singing "Good morning Heartache." Chris told a story about the writer of this song or something. I found it kinda hopeful. I mean like i think im totally a hopeless romantic, that’s the only kind of romance worth having. Find that other half you’d are totally in love with. Anyways. The story.. This dude was with this chick, but was dumped for a richer man. Many many years go by, and she calls him out of nowhere. He talks to her like they never missed a beat and go out a few times. A month or 3 later they decided to get married, and both are still married 30 years later. I think that’s soo like incredible, so they go to London and watch Chris and Jill redo this song, well an updated version. I saw Jill Scott months ago on the Sugar Water Festival, and she blew the other ladies out of the water.

Now for what i was waiting for. To see Renee Olstead perform live, and to hear her live with my own ears. Dressed very casually with what i remember were jeans, a red T-Shirt with a white sleeveless button up? Her beautiful red locks big and up seeming not to move with im sure plenty applied aqua net. Prior to her going up, i was making sure i was aware Brian was at. He was pretty much sitting a few rows in front of me next to one of the video cameras recording the show. I had to make sure i got his card this time, or I was just going to kick myself again. Well i see Brian leave right before Renee gets on stage, and that’s pretty much the last time i saw him that night. Renee sang, "Pennies From Heaven." I really wanted to hear "Sunday Kind of Love" which is on Renee's album, but this was Chris' night.. sniff.. Such a beauty, visually and vocally.

Chris Botti said a few things that is very very true. Jazz, appeals pretty much mainly to an adult audience. Saying how shows like American Idol gives kids the ideas that you just be a rock star over night. How kids wont get the idea to learn an instrument or whatever, just be a rock star. He finally concluded that parents should take their kids out to an orchestra show. I believe that is true.

Segwaying to "My Funny Valentine" he says Miles Davis is his American Idol. Chris came out to the audience to serenade someone out there. I bet on the DVD it would look like it was something random, being there it looked like a few members of the audience relocated to where he was. Midway through the song, Sting came back on stage to put some vocals on this track. It was quite humorous due to certain lyrics of the song he sang to Chris. Lyrics such as "Your looks are laughable, unphotographical" That was quite quite a riot. You have to understand Chris and Sting have been working together for years. Chris started off in Paul Simon band but then was promoted into Sting's band for many years before he went out on his own.

Paul Buchanan came out to sing "Are You Lonesome Tonight." Im not too sure if he really wanted to be there. He came out with a bottle of water, and i mean sang out the song, but i felt a vibe of imma sing and leave and that’s it.

Final song of the night, "Why Not." An instrumental set with a huge drum solo. Billy Kilson was the drummer. He rocked it out, one of the best drum solos ive heard live let alone anywhere else. Awesome!!

Chris brought out everyone who performed tonight to do a final bow. Someone who was missing from the night was Gladys Knight, but i figured he would be there tomorrow with everyone or maybe just a handful of the performers tonight. I don’t know. I know it was a sold out night tomorrow and tonight wasn’t even close. Sting hung around to rock out the house with "Message in a Bottle" with Chris' trumpeting. It was really really amazing!!

The show was done, and man i wish was going to go see the show tomorrow. Oh well, went to go meet with Ralph to get my camera and Michael Keaton walks by me. Wow hes looking pretty old. Got my camera and i was out of the place. I wanted to catch up with Brian, but its all good. I can get his contact info a little later. Just need to get my list together so i can send out Brian a card and some candy or whatever.

All and all a great day. visited the Beverly Center, got my jacket, saw Tara Reid, dinner at the ultra posh trendy IVY restaurant, and saw a great great concert!

Check out the live concert on PBS during March and the DVD sometime in February

Posted by Anh at 5:34 PM | Comments (0)

November 23, 2005

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)

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)

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)

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)

October 27, 2005

America's Top Hotties!!

Wednesday October 19th, 2005

Long long day today... Tyra Banks Self Magazine Celebration party at The Lodge in Beverly Hills. The Lodge, apart of the Dolce Group. The group is own maybe from a few names you might have heard Ashton Kucher? Wilmer Valderrama? Chris Masterson? Danny Masterson??? Maybe you’ve heard of the restaurants? Dolce? Geisha house? There new little sister restaurant to Dolce... Bella? Well i think its called Bella Donna. Not too sure! Anywho. I was excited to go to the Lodge, since ive eaten at Dolce, which is Italian.. Geisha House, which is Japanese... and The Lodge is the steakhouse and what not. Anyways!! before I get into details.. Brief cliff notes of the events prior in the day...

Hit up the post office... then the bank to deposit a check. Decided to chill somewhere to kill time before i had to head off to Beverly Hills. I hit up Jesse, and off on our way to Henrys! The place i almost got rolled by the cops for dancing a week ago
.. We made a pit stop at Jesse bank, so he can deposit his check, the teller dude that was helping him seemed very interested in his state of health. Jesse was losing his voice from a cold or whatever and yeah.. i just found it really funny..

Anywho.. Headed on off to Henrys.. Picked up a few things. ALMOND BUTTER!!! If you love almonds, or just even like them.. You’ll love Almond Butter.. Just think Peanut Butter but with almonds instead of peanuts. However that junk is pretty expensive.. About 10 bucks a pound, and they home in like 8 to 9 bucks containers. Its really fresh with no preservatives and such... Well was there for over 30 mins and it was getting close to 5 and i got to be in Beverly Hills at 6ish.

The usual drive off to Los Angeles i always take week in and week out. However i often have a carpool dummy along with me, this time. Took the solo route since i was pretty much spending my whole evening down there at two events. Plus usually i do last minute things and its hard to find friends that flexible. I just throw it out there for someone to come with, if not whatever. I like it much better alone, since i only have to worry about myself and not making sure someone who is with me is having fun or not. And its a whole lot easier to meet people. People are a lot open to talking to you and i am open since i don’t have to focus on someone.

Traffic wasnt’t too bad. Took about an hour to get into Beverly Hills, and I just was listening to the new Ryan Cabrera. Wow Beverly Hills was soo crowded. I am use to just the streets where the houses are and Rodeo Drive. Not like the main streets where all the restaurants and stores were. There was just way way too many cars, and i passed the Lodge. I had to make a turn, which got me stuck into another turn and took me like 10 minutes to finally backtrack and get into the restaurant. Good Luck finding parking without valet. I was lucky and just parked at the Citibank ATM parking lot where there was only about 10 spots. At this point, it was 6:30 and i thought i missed the arrivals.

I went to the entrance, and i was on the list and they guided me in to the red carpet, which was inside. Pretty much nothing was even going on yet.. They just placed me in a random spot like they always do. I was standing next to Stanley from Shooting Star. Not too sure what they do, which I will have to look up and check out. Melissa from the PR Firm is pretty cute, I swear ive seen her somewhere besides events she puts on. While waiting, they brought around Hor D ‘orves. It was a little piece of steak with a creamy sauce. That sauce was sooo rich, and the steak was perfect.. You barely even had to crew. It was sooo good... Man i wonder how else the food is there. Imma go eat there pretty soon. Maybe after a day of shopping at the Beverly Center...

Constantine from American Idol was the first to show.. He is quite quite tall. Rex Lee from Entourage showed. He plays Ari Gold (Jeremy Priven) assistant. I love the show.. He was wearing a lime green shirt, I was thinking to myself. Good thing i didnt decide to wear the same shirt.. Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Noah Tisby,Charity Shae,Chaz Brewer were some of the others. There were more, but i dont do good with no names really. Jennifer Finnigin, such a cutie. She was on the axed NBC show Committed. I really liked her in it. She had this cute little nasally voice. Haylie Duff.. kinda rude to be honest and soo not cute. Her and Hilary looks like they fell into the ugly tank recently..

Then finally Tyra Banks.. After like being told she showed up but was getting out of the limo.. She did the carpet.. Of course she had her camera crew from her television show follow along. By gosh, Tyra banks is tall!!! Said to be around 6 feet 2 inches or so. Dang is all I gots to say. No wonder she is a supermodel... She did the carpet very short, and ran to the Extra and E! correspondents to do questions on camera. During this, her camera crew was taking some B Roll of the place and had the camera around me and the other photographers. I really hope it doesnt air on her show.. If any of you guys saw her show at the Self Magazine party thing, saw a dude with a camera and a Beatles shirt.. That was me...

Anywho.. After they came.. The last couple of guests.. Lacey Chabert.. She is sooo adorable!! And a sex kitten at the same time.. While Lacey was doing the carpet.. I saw Allison Munn.. from What I Like About You. I like the show and i wanted to take a few photos of her. She was suppose to since she was on the Media Alert, but they didnt’t bring her over. Oh well...

The carpet was pretty much done.. And it was getting around 8 o clock.. I exchanged numbers with one of the dudes who was shooting for Power Magazine. He graduated from USC Art School which was impressive. I told him i wanted to go there, and she said i shouldn’t because its a waste of time. I wanted to stay there and check out the restaurant, mingle, and have a few drinks and more food. However i was pressed for time, since Ryan Cabrera was going on at 9, and Click 5 was playing at the moment. So i ran out of there as fast as i could. But not without rubbing up to Tyra Banks... I wanted to touch her.. Im sure you guys are thinking in a disturbing way, but in an appropriate manner... Again, can’t believe how tall she is. She is gorgeous.. As i was walking out... It was pretty hard to walk out of there, without rubbing some more elbows.... :(

Off to the House of Blues... Just a simple drive up La Cienaga.. I passed the Beverly Center.. I couldnt’t believe how BIG the place is. I’ve never been there to shop before and i most definitely will someday soon...

I made pretty good time. Got to the House of Blues around 20 minutes until 9. Parked over at the Hyatt, walked through the hotel, and outside. This time decided to take the crosswalk.. Since the last time id ran into the Sheriffs. Passed by one of my favorite restaurants.. Justin Timberlake's CHI. I noticed the CHI sign wasn’t up there.. Hoodlums these days.. Got my tickets at the will call, walked on in. Click 5 was rocking out the place. The place wasn’t as crowded as it was when Ashlee Simpson was playing there... I have the Click 5 album, however didn’t listen to much of it yet. I do like the song, "Pop Princess." I proceed to pull out my camera and take some photos. I haven’t cleaned out my compact flash cards, and i still have Comic Con, Black Eyed Peas, and Ashlee Simpson photos still on there. I had to delete a few to make room for the Tyra Banks party and for this concert...

Click 5 puts on a fun fun show.. Very high energy and such.. After hearing a few songs live, i wished i was there to see the full set. The bubblegum pop was fun to listen to.

I ran into Amy from Ryan-Cabrera.com and chatted briefly with her. I checked out the photo pit and of course yet again.. There was none, the fans pushed the barricade up to the stage. This time i was smart, and said screw it. I decided just to shoot around the place, from my experiences at the Ashlee Simpson concert.. Security is pretty lax on the photo pass rules..

Theres some actual seating in the House of Blues. However its blocked off my a big security guards, i figure you gotta know someone or have money to sit there, so you dont have to hassle with general admission people. The dude that was in charge allowed me to shoot photos in that section as long as i wasnt in anyones way. Perfect.. Combined with my telephoto lens, i should be ok.

The show started with snippet tracks of what i think was "Good Vibrations" by CNC Music Factory, Jackson 5 "I Want You Back" and Snoop Dogg's "Nuttin But a G Thang." Found that rather odd but irregardless. Ryan came on stage with a piccolo and went right into, "Hit Me With Your Light" On stage, they had these little lights in what looked like a small tree. While singing the song, i was like, why isnt the lights on?? This is gonna screw with me taking the pictures.. However, right when he got to the first line of the chorus, which was "Hit Me With Your Light" and right on "light" the stage lights illumminaded.

Heres the set list...

Hit me with your light
40 kinds of sadness
Photo
Our story
Fall baby fall..
From the start abruptty played in to "True" which sang a verse in Spanish.
Walking on water
Exit to exit
Paul simon.. You can call me al..
Find your way
On the way down....
Its you..
Shine on...

Throughout the whole show. I was running around. Honestly.. I love running around trying to find different shots. I was in that VIP section, all the way in the back of the house, near the sound engineers section, down in the pit. Only place i didnt go was the second floor. I would have had some awesome shots, and maybe even got to hang next to Ashlee.

Oh.. i didnt say huh. While i was hanging out in the VIP section before Ryan got on stage... People were cheering and looking up. All i saw was blonde hair and i so knew it was Ashlee Simpson. It made me laugh to myself so bad. Actually I was laughing out loud too. I took a few photos, hoping to get a shot. It was dark most of the time until the show started and i got a few decent shots. Looks like Ashlee loves her red wines, saw her empty a few glasses during the show. Also i found it funny but then again kinda cute that Ashlee was like hugging herself when Ryan was performing his ballads.

I found his acedotes a little weird. One was about a nipple game where you flick someone elses nipple as hard as you can. It landded him in the hospital where he had to explain it to his treating doctor.. Very minimal laughs here.. I did find the two occusions of panties being thrown on stage quite humorous. They werent granny panties.. one was straight up frully pink and black thong and ther other i want to say it was pink.

Two songs i wanted to hear him sing were "Find Your Way" and "Its You." He introduced "Find Your Way" the way i felt the song meant, which was, when you are in a weird situation with someone you care for and dont know what to do. I had to take time to sit down, and just enbrace the song. Of course it made me think of someone... BLAH!! Lets not get into that... and "Its You" My second favorite song off his new album... I took the time to record the song onto my cell phone.. Another song thats just very mushy and such.. Kinda got me a little teary eyed.. Just one of those songs..

The show ended with his first single, "Shine On." I never really liked the song when he performed it on TV and such. But tonight it sounded really good and i liked it....

After the show was done.. I left right away.. I hit up Amy to see if she was hanging with Ryan afterwards. If she was, i wanted to come with, but she wasn’t.. I decided to unwind and went in to the pizza place right next to the House of Blues.. Pizzeria Rustra or something i think it was called. I went in, and I noticed this Asian dude chillin.. I look at him a little bit longer than i should and he looked at me just as much. I figured it was Bobby Lee from MAD TV. I was like wow, right on.. I wanted to say hi, and introduce myself. However I didn’t want to bother him. I am going to a MAD TV taping with my American Cinema class.. and im sure im going to see him. My professor mentioned something about VIP, and I don’t know what that encompasses.. All i recalled is him saying something about alcohol, and no lines... Anyways.. Got a BBQ Chicken Pizza.. sat outside and enjoyed Sunset Blvd... Chowed down 2 slices and went on my very way...

Headed on home.. Was about 11. and talked to Nohemi on the way.. For whatever reason, i was craving brownies. Like a warm one.. I figured only Denny’s was the only thing open at home. I was trying to get Nohemi to go, but she was tired.. PLEASE!! We were talking until like 230. That was like 3 hours pretty much, her asss could have hopped into something and we could have gone.. BLAH!! All and all.. I had a fun fun night.. I just really wish gas was cheaper, so I can be down in LA more often...

Full day.... Dont want it anyother way...

Posted by Anh at 8:01 PM | Comments (1)

October 22, 2005

My First Fashion Show... HURRAY!!

October 15, 2005

My first fashion show.. I’ve never been to one and i thought it was going to be pretty awesome. However here’s the catch, the show was at 2 friggin am Saturday morning at the Union Station. Such a crazy time, but then i thought about it, and it was pretty much an afterparty after a night of clubbing, and then lets throw some fashion into it since its LA Fashion Week.

Lets talk about the day a little. I don’t recall much however all i remember was that i went out with Leslie. We went to go see Waiting.. Before that, we killed some time at at the Ontario Mills Mall. Can you believe they have an Abercrombie and Hollister outlet?? They are friggin huge in there which was Very very dimly lit. Maybe the loud music, the lack of light, and the trendy mass produced overpriced clothing gives the vibe of a party!! Which makes you wanna buy the clothes perhaps?? I don’t know.. After just going back and forth to shop some... There were a few cute chicks which is nice to do when you shop. However the showtime was at 330 from what i recall. Got our tickets and headed on into the AMC. The theatre was bumping some Chris Botti and it was soo nice. His new album, "To Love Again".. Go get it!!

Wow was the theatre packed!! Hella sarcastic there. There was only about 8 people tops in what looked like it would fit over 100?? I’m thinking less, but i don’t know.. These seats are as comfortable as the ones at the AMC at the Victoria Gardens, and i totally hate how the seats are so close to each other. The rows that is, so its pretty hard to put your feet up. Anywho.. The movie started.. had lots of the typical teen comedy movie trailers. The movie that i liked to see would have been "Kids in America" with Nicole Richie and Gregory Smith.

Long story short on the movie. "Waiting" with Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris, Luis Guzman, Dane Cook, and Andy Milanakis. Speaking of Andy Milankis.. I found out his real age and i will have a put up an entry for anyone who’s interested in knowing the top secret age. Which it is, since MTV wont even state it.

The main reason i wanted to see his movie was because of Dane cook. Such a funny funny guy!! Cant wait to see him live.. Plus Ryan Reynolds is usually funny, and he’s taking over the Chevy Chase type role decently. The movie wasn’t really that funny. Dane cook appearance was very minimum, and he was all tatted up as a chef at the mock family restaurant Shenanigans. They had a game where you show off your manhood, if someone looks at it, you kick them in the butt. Depending on how much you show and the situation, you get to kick the onlookers butt numerous times. The movie was very very unamusing a lot of the time. Richard Roeper stated it was funny every 15 mins, which was very true. They also have an on going sexual tension between Ryan Reynolds character and the hostess who was underage. It got a lot more disturbing when the manager, who looks like he’s in his fortys, started hitting on her. The hostess didn’t rejected it either, she was with it. That was way way disturbing. Heck she did look pretty hott, besides the fact she has a huge nose.

They showed a few aspects of the typical customers at restuarants. I never waited, but i have cooked at one. I couldnt really relate much to how the staff would react and how customers are. Two examples i found, a very very rude customer. What they do to her?? Just put every disgusting thing you could put without giving the movie an NC17 rating. Another situation.. A customer that doesn’t tip the right percentage. Remember guys.. Its 20 percent.. Justin Long's character throws a fit and tells off the customer. What’s even ironic... one of his conflicts in the movie, was with an old high school classmate who graduated college with a electrical engineering degree and leaves him an 100 dollar tip. Which is a slap in the face to him. Anyways... Long story short.. The movie seemed to drag on and on and on! The movie is definitely a rental... Netflix it.. I would be a lot more livid if i actually paid for the movie..

I wanted to see another movie after it was done.. I wanted to have a movie day!! Like watch 2 or 3 new releases, however had to pick up Leslies brother. Picked him up and headed off back to her house. Hung out and such... I wanted her to roll with me to the fashion show, however she was bitching and moaning about how she’s gonna be comparing because she wasn’t going dress as well as the other people. Oh well. I mean she did try something on that looked pretty good.. But ended up not wanted to go, and she was in a towel for awhile... No comment.. Left around 10ish..

Got home and settled down a little bit. I started up my essay for History. I put out an hour to start and to finish it, since it was due tomorrow morning. Got ready and such and had Amanda come over and we headed off to LA.

I left at 1am towards over there and made some good time. Took around 40 mins. Oh, the thing was at the Union station. There was no parking in front of the place, and had to drive around to the other side into the parking complex. Man i was hoping i didn’t have to pay when i left because I didn’t have any cash on me and Amanda didn’t either. Parked.. lotta fashionable LA people came out and got on the elevator. Found it really really interesting. I’ve never been around the train station, i mean ive been in there for a second to get some breakfast and see it all the time when i get lunch with my dad. Other than that.. Not the gateways and such. It did remind me of an episode of 24. Anywho...

I’m going to blab and blab way too much. Made it all the way down the gateways and made it back outside. Checked the list for my name, and i wasnt too sure which list i was on. I had to ask around sooo much. I asked one list and i wasnted onthere. I tried to drop a name, the name that got me on the list, but no one even knew who she was. Great! That’s like one of my biggest fears. Knowing my name is on a list, and not getting in. Makes me feel hella embarrassed, especially when I can’t do anything about it. Finally checked another list baring bouncer. I was on the house list, which the member holding door guy had. I didn’t know much about why they kept asking if you were a member.. However with a little research on Xenii. Its like a Hollywood elite society.. Secret societies mind you. The only way you can be apart of the society, is to be invited in and after approval from the consul.. This is the easy part.... Here’s catch 2.. There are levels of membership.. depending on how much you "contribute". The lowest and first level of membership requires a 450 dollar payment. 450 dollars a month!! Its not a year!! An effin month!! Thats like more than a car payment for most and insurance. I find it totally wow... Thats why i kept on noticing people knowing each other and how all the people there looked soooo HOTT. This society.. is involved all over Hollywood... .CD album releases... movie premieres... parties.. Anything you can think of.. Anywho.. Back to it..

After hurdle one.. Which was finding my damn name.. Oh after i found it.. It should have been plus one, which means i can bring someone else. It didn’t state that i had a plus one, and the dude allowed me to bring someone. Of course the rule was one chick. Sigh of relief.. However there was a table where you had to get a wrist band to get inside, and they were checking ID. The chick i was with wasn’t... Hurdle number 2 of the night! Hurray!! After talking to the chick at the table.. She was really unhelpful. I was going to throw a hissy fit.. As someone has told me i do, and its like forever burned in my brain, since she pointed it out. My thing? i was invited by the PR firm.. Public relations.. If i knew i had to bring someone who was 21 and over.. I would have.. How old was Amanda? I don’t even know and still don’t. I know she’s over 18, but i pretty much met her like an hour prior.. Don’t ask! hahaa.. That chick handed the baton to someone else... Allison.. who was a cutie.. Before she did that... Some guy was bitching her out, saying how she should know who he is.. This and that and how he was with Ray.. I think his name was Ray.. The president of the operations. After talking to Allison.. Explaining to her what’s up... She relay my message to the president.. He came over... he was totally cool. We reassured him that she wasn’t going to drink. See.. at these type of events.. Always open bar.. I mean c’mon.. 450 a month membership.. Gotta be open bar.. He allowed her to get a wristband.. and there we head on in...

The music was playing.. and alcohol was flowing... There were bottles of Grey Goose just chillin on there little tables with couches around. Just poor it into a cup and party it up. There was a DJ on one side and opposite were the bars. Towards the far left was what looked like a make shift runway...It was pretty elevated and chairs on each side. It was really crowded. There was sooo many beautiful people... I just couldn’t believe it.. I felt sooo inferior to them.. I mean i was dressed properly, but i just wanted feeling up to par. We just walked around, people watching and soaking it up. Girls were walking around with tiny baby bottles with margarita drink in them. Like i guess they made a margarita in a bottle premade, pretty much like Hypnotiq. This junk was sooo strong.. Maybe that’s why they were in a baby bottle to suck it out slowly.. Well I just opened the thing and took it like a shot. Dude it was effin strong!!! I felt a minor minor buzz.. But buzz nonetheless. I knew i should have eaten something today.. Oh well.. They also had Chinese take out boxes filled with food, chicken satay, and eggs rolls going around from what i noticed..

Anyways.. the fashion show was suppose to start at 2am. The thing was pretty much an hour friggin late. However i did notice this girl right across from me. She was soooo gorgeous. Long hair down her back.. Incredible eyes and facial features.. Her fashion was very in the know with a little flare to it. Hoop earrings.. and let me state.. Not the main thing I saw however adds to her beauty.. Her chest.. i kind of found to look artificial, but maybe not. Her green top was low, and just make the whole ensemble work. Just sooo enchanting.. Too bad she had a boyfriend.. Who had an effin awesome fashion attire. Man if these kids can do the 450 a month thing and make it seems like nothing. Their style would be effortless. Yes. i am jealous! Man.. What i would do to get into this circle of the privileged...

The show eventually started at 3. I wish i brought in my camera to take pictures, so i can remember how these models look. Some were beautiful, and others were like whatever. The first was Guy Candy Swimwear.. The bathing suits were interesting.. I can’t really describe... There was an African American model, and she was BEAUTIFUL... You can see her sister sitting on the otherside. She looks just like her, and wow. I would say a little Kelly Rowland in them, that’s the best i could describe them without a photo, and with my lack of literacy description skills. Cesar de la Parra, Warier Boswell, Pegah Anvarian, and Eduardo Lucero were the other designers. I really liked Eduardo Lucero, it wasn’t too over the top, it did use a lot of fur. I was surprise there wasn’t any pigs blood baring PETA members outside.

Pretty much left after the show, which ended around 4 and headed on home. Hurdle number 3... Leaving the parking complex.. The tab was at 6 bucks, and we didn’t have cash among the two of us. He gave us an IOU, which has to be sent in the mail. Oh well.... Got back to Rancho around 5.. I have class at 9 in the morning.. HURRAY!! A midterm to do, which i didn’t study for.

Saturday night is going to be interesting. The 2 BE Free fashion show on Paramount Studios and an afterparty. They turned one of the streets on the lot to an urban New York theme.. Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Haylie Duff, Misha Barton and Rachel Bilson were to be said to attend... This show was going to satisfy 3 of my goals in life.. Not necessarily goals in life, but just things i want to accomplish.. So i guess that is considered goals. 1. Get on the Paramount Studios for ANY reason. 2. Party with Paris, just to say i partied with her. 3. Attend a fashion show, and its afterparty. I called that my mirroring the life of the Laguna Beach kids. Don’t take it wrong.. I don’t live my life trying to make my life like the people from the Laguna Beach show.. But it’s just funny how my life just is so similar to the beach kids Kristin, Stephan, and LC.

I was pretty much screwed my energy and such after doing the whole fashion at 2am. I slept all day and felt like crap. I ended up not going to the 2 BE FREE fashion show because i had a research paper due for my American Cinema class the next day, and i didn’t finish the 6 page essay. I knew if i went to the party that i would have been home around 3.. After a night of drinking.. Grinding on Paris booty.. Wishful thinking there.. and maybe exploring around the lot... I would have been out of commission most of the day and wouldn’t finish.. I kinda get mad when i don’t attend events i look forward to, but i know for a fact i will have another chance of some sort. OH!! Then i find out.. My Professor gave an extension to these two chicks in the class... SO I COULD HAVE GONE TO THE SHOW.. Maybe. I mean they are chicks and they have 2 things i don’t have.. So maybe he wouldn’t have given me the extension.. but at least i could had some sort of choice.. But then again.. I finished it, and i didn’t have to think about it after i turned it in. So that took a load off my back.. Next time..

Anyone want to payroll my membership?? :P

Posted by Anh at 2:13 PM | Comments (0)

October 3, 2005

On a Monday.. on a Tuesday.. on a Wednesday..

Wow... i dont know how Paris Hilton does it.. Last night i hung out with the kids.. Alex, Frankie, Val, Lindsay and some other people.. I have to say to the least it was very interesting. I stayed over to sleep since i mean my house was up the street and it was whatevers. All i have to say?? Bacardi 151 is mother trucking dangerous! However very very nice!!

I had class at 9. My history class.. A class i dont wanna miss at all even though its pretty much just lecture. I didnt get much sleep and left the house at 8. Nice huh? Talk about a very very interesting day! Went home and hope in the shower. Took a nap. Man i was exhausted.

Headed over to class of course on time. Heres the funny thing. First thing the teacher. Professor Flowers shows to the class. A comic strip in the college paper. Heres how it looks. This kid wakes up and flips a coin weather to stay and sleep or go to school. He loses the coin and decides to sleep in class with his pillow. Great! Like this wasnt just talking straight to me. The professor has a peeve of people putting their heads down on the desk and napping. I mean cmon!!! This is college not high school. College.. just leave!! So which i did... haha. I left during our break which was about 2 hours in. Im sorry. During the first 2 hours i was nodding off with my eyes lids and head feeling all heavy. I was screwed either way and just left.

Went home and took a nap. I dont remember much anything else. Went out to lunch with Alex and Frankie to Red Robins. This place is warming up to me, but its still not all that great. Still all about the Freckled Lemonade which is Strawberry Lemonade and the Clucks and Fries.. Chicken Tenders. Anywho! Had the Ashlee Simpson concert tonight...

Got ready... the usual.. prepared my camera.. Waited for Melissa to come pick me up. Yes i know.. Nice huh? haha. Hey gas is expensive and she drives a Mercedes. You tell me what you would do?? The drive wasnt too bad.. Bumping the new Ryan Cabrera. Cd has grown on me big time!! We chatted.. covered a few things which is all good... Hit some traffic over the hill in Covina. Thats what i get for telling her to take the 10. I NEVER take the 10. Its all about the 210 to the 605!!! Good thing we left around 630.. Didnt get to Hollywood until around 8ish. I love this city!! Parted at the Hyatt.. 20 friggin bucks!!! Its horrible but what are you going to do?

So we are at the Hyatt.. Right across the street from House of the Blues. The cross walk is about 150 feet on both sides. Of course. I said screw it and jay walked it over with Melissa. Heres the funny thing.. Right when i hit the payment of the sidewalk!! I notice these guys on bikes... wearing shirts that say Sheriff. I was thinking OH CRAP!! Then one of the cops said, "Are you guys crazy??!!" I heard a little faint voice from another cop say, "Jaywalking." My response?? On the fly and witty?? I said, "Look at her shoes [Melissa] she cant walk that far." I just kept on walking. No ticket!! Thank goodness!! However when they said, "You are crazy!!" I wasnt even sure what they were referring to. The fact that i jaywalked in front of 5 sheriff cops on bikes or jaywalking a crazy busy street in Hollywood. Friggin Sunset Blvd on a Saturday night.

Before i even got into town i called up Manny to see whats up. He told me he was going to be there, and i figured he was going to be the host of the night. Manny told me the line was around the block. GREAT! However when i got there, i didnt have to wait in it which is always good! I had to check out the industry entrance. Where there was no line! Love it!! Its all about the special entrances!! Anywho, got my tickets and had a little thing my photo pass, which was cleared.

Got inside!! It was pretty interesting and a lot smaller than i thought it would be. This is my first time here. The bar section was in the back and to the sides. It had a projector screen thingy in the middle which seemed soo kinda small. Just a lot smaller than i thought but this place has alot of history. Place was really crowded already since doors opened at 7:30. We went upstairs to see how it is and it was pretty cool but had a cut off section.

Went back down. Found a spot to stand. I was looking around to see who would escort me to the front to take pictures. I figured it wasnt going to be anyone. Headed to the front and the security guard was like go up there, you have a pass so you can go. HA! There was NO room to move at all, it was a bitch getting in there and walking down to the middle. It was soo annoying! I went down there to get up in the front.. It was soo hard.. I am pretty Ganhdi when it comes to it but it was hella hard. I got to my spot. Took some pics..

The group that opened was of Joe Simpson's label, Papa Joe. Did they sound good? I wouldnt know. I had my ear plugs in however i hear the girls behind me digging on the bass player. I took my pictures and such. The singer tried to do a stage dive. I think he falled to put in account that the audience consisted of Ashlee Simpson fans. Umm pre-teens mostly and their parents and of the female gender. Pretty much the dude ate it, and had to call for help. He still went through the crowd to the stage... all the little girls trying to push him up.. Quite funny.. He knew he looked like a dumb ass. I wonder if Papa Joe thought it was amusing.

Oh.. If you didnt know.. about life that is.. You can really only make it by who you know. Theres no doubt about it. Doors that opened for me are by me knowing people. How does this relate to whatever i was talking about before?? Well Chris whatever his last name of Barefoot, his father was frat brothers with Joe Simpson. And there we have it..

I left the area.. again leaving was just as hard as getting in the area. Headed back to Melissa next to the engineer stations.There was some cheering and what not and the crowd looking to the balcony. I went to the side with Melissa, Jessica and the whole family. How exciting, but not surprising at all. I didnt see Nick though. Joe, Linda, i think thats her name, Casey were there with some more family and friends.

After some more hosting duties by Manny and Jojo.. Ashlee came out. I went to the front again, and AGAIN got stuck! I couldnt believe it at all. I was like move back! I dont think little preteens understand English at all!! After forcing my way to the middle.. I see a fellow photographer.. She looks like a house photographer and we both were soo irritated!! I gave up and told the people to back the fuck up. All they could say was that tell them to move back blah bla blah.. Them as the peopel behind them. I swear the security or the people who run HOB needs to keep that junk in check.

I had to put my foot up against the stage and push with my back to get some sort of footing to be in position to shoot some decent friggin photos. When Ashlee got on stage, i can feel everyone behind me pushing on the guard rail.. Yes, my back against like 100 little girls pushing forward on me with their hands up, trying to touch her hand. I swear! Do you think touching their hand will transfer the fame over to you or something?? Give me a break!! Another annoying thing and kinda sick was all the little girls with their not so fresh breathe singing on the back of my neck. Just disgusting.. Only thing that made it good? Ashlee stood over me in a skirt.. you do the math. She was wearing a gray jacket, black tie, white button up with a black shirt, boots and leg warmers.

Her show was pretty good. I liked it. I was waiting for her to mention Ryan Cabrera.. which she did. Wasnt a surprise. Melissa.. her friend little sister used to hang out with him. They were at a sushi place and Ashlee called. I guess Ryan kinda hung out on her and a few mintues later she showed up. I was told it was pretty ackward. That is soo funny!! She had a song she was talking about a ghost.. Shes a great songwriter isnt she?? I recall the song being called "Eyes Wide Open" Of course she did her songs off the first cd. Another song, the title track.. "I Am Me." Of course it has to be about some relationship. She said it was about her ex boyfriend when she saw him with another girl. I can only imagine it was Ryan Cabrera and it was most likely at his house warming party. I heard a little story about that moment. Im not going to get inot it, but lets just say Ryan was with a chick in a room and Ashlee was at the house warming. She saw them and made a friggin scene.

Ok i didnt even say what happened after i was done taking pictures. It was a 3 song limit. The other photographer left somehow and i tried to find an exit. So many people just packed the exits and i had to fight my way out. While i was trying to leave, all these stupid girls try to come it. Again the security should have handle this, but they seem so stupid and lazy. I couldnt believe it. To add to the frustration? Where i ended up standing to watch the rest of the show, there was this group of guys coming and going, acting like their spot was saved. They were with some chicks who acted the same. Both were dancing with drinks in their hand and i was just waiting for them to spill. Most of the time i was looking up the balcony to see Jessica, which i saw. She looked pretty bored. Her best friend and assistant Casey was going wild. Momma Linda, i think thats the name was sitting and was whatevers also. However Papa Joe was wild, singing and dancing.

The show ended around 1030 i think?? After she had a little encore of her "La La" song which started out slow and carabet or however you spell it style. I saw she is a good performer. Gets the crowd really into it which is always good.

Leaving Hollywood. Lets just say we had an adventure driving all over Hollywood and then some. We were driving around Los Angeles where ive never been. I did run across the club Dragonfly, which ive heard of but never knew where it was. Its on Santa Monica somewhere!

Eventually got on the freeway.. Made it back to a familar part.. Headed off to In N Out in Covina.. Its one of the biggest once ive seen and pretty nice. Had something to eat, and chatted. Then left back home. Hit friggin traffic again!! It was just so lame. I dont even think we got home until 1ish. Got home and left again. Hung out with some friends... Eventually got back around 3. Such a friggin long day. I wont have it any other way!!

Gotta cover the Ryan Cabrera shows.. hope it wasnt as bad but i dont think i would even care. Ill be too busy singing along!!!

Posted by Anh at 5:37 PM | Comments (0)

August 27, 2005

Its for the kids... Charity... :)

Snoop Dogg Youth Football Charity Benefit
The Greek Theatre
Los Angeles, California
August 25th, 2005

SNOOP DOGG!! The O.G. gangsta.. One of the most known rapper today and im sure a long time coming. Having his charity benefit tonight at the Greek with effin Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Ice Cube. I should say im pretty excited to see Red Hot Chili Peppers, but im more excited to check out the free food and booze. Im sorry. Im all about the perks. :)Headed down pretty early.. Well i left Rancho at 4:30PM after picking up my dry cleaning and such. The drive wasnt too bad but the Air Con was giving me a brain freee kinda headache. I had to keep on adusting the temp and yeah. Since i left kinda early on over there. I wanted to hit up Sephora at Hollywood and Highland. Dude! I want my damn Jonathan Product!! "Dirt" The one in Rancho didnt have it, and its been back ordered for ages! I would thinking hey.. Hollywood.. they would have a better stock than Rancho Cucamonga. So i head on over there, did the whole parking and what not. Got into the store, and NOTHING! They have the conditioner and like gel stuff, but not the Dirt!! Well it wasnt a waste, Ben wanted to Jamba Juice, some sort of Green Tea shot and i could have sworn there one was there. But it was thinking City Walk. Oh well. Headed on over to LA Weekly. Hung out a little, headed on over to Greek a little awhile. The usual routine. It was pretty crowded, and mad mad lines. This was the first time I seen them have metal detectors. Then again it is a Snoop Dogg concert. So pretty much it was a given. Did the whole parking thing again. Wow the lines sucked even for the press line. However eventually we found Vanessa, who gave our tickets, pretty much cut in line, got through the metal detectors.Of course we had to hit up the hospitally room before anything else. Got in there and it was pretty crackin. Food and such on the thing, we had to hit up the bar first. Too bad we were late, it was already closing up. It was closing because the first act was coming up first, Ice Cube.

After leaving the Hospitiality room, we headed off to the food stands to get something to drink. I wasnt thinking but we saw Stephanie. Shes a cute girl who works at the concession building thingy at the Greek. We were in the line to the left, we looked and said a little hi. Looks like she rememberes us. :) Again, way too cute to work serving people food. Way way too cute.

Headed to our seats. At this point im going to give another cliff notes version. Because its been way too long since i posted. Ice Cube was out first. Pretty much did most of the songs off his Greatest hits album. It was pretty tight. There were these two chicks sitting next to us. Middleaged chicks, but like to party. You can tell. One reminded me of my friend but older, and the older version isnt all that great. The ohter, body 10, face.. old... Thats all i have to say. She looked late 30s, however her boobs looked just about 3 years old, if you know what i mean. During Cubes last song, Chris Rock popped out and made a request. That was pretty rad.

They introduced Wanda Syke, im sure to kill some time or whatever between acts. I just thought she was a guest who was chillin. I heard her name over Vanessa's walkie talkie or whatever when i arrived.

After was Red Hot Chili Peppers. We go back to the hospitality room to see if any drink or food was out, however they said after the concert. Red Hot Chili Peppers was soo tight. I havent seen them in concert and i loved her Californiacation album. No noone was wearing just a tube sock this time. Flea was all geared up in Lakers attire. I remember i was shopping at Fred Segal on Melrose and she was shopping their also. I thought that was pretty cool. The security was out tonight, the chciks right next to me were blazing it up. One of the security chicks came up and yelled at the chick who was holding the joint. She was crewing her out like none other. Oh, then this one dude was trying to get up on the two seats next to us. He was like can you move down, i was like umm no. He was all like i got 3 more people who needs to sit here. Dude get over it, i was like whatever dude. Everytime, every single dang time i go out.

Snoop Dogg, before he performed. Vanessa presented him with a check over 200,000 dollars from the sales of the tickets. It was sold out, which was a good thing. Snoop Dogg performed. Did the usual songs he always does along with a few new ones. However he didnt do Signs, and Justin Timberlake didnt make an appearance. I can ALWAYS hope. In the middle of his set, he had Tommy the Clown come out from David LaChappelle "Rize." He had his krumping kids and what not, it was pretty cool. Cool to watch and such. Snoop had a whole band and everything.

The concert was over. Headed off to the hospitality room to get my grub on. They had the usual Swedish Meatballs, Buffalo Wings, Cheese Blocks with crackers, and various melons. I LOVE THE MELONS!!! Wynda Skyes was chillaxin there. I wanted to say whats up, but ya know i cant be annoying them. Just chilled out, got some beers. Grubbed it up, and that was that. Spent like an hour in there. All and all it was prety much a good night.. The concert was fun like it always is.

What my mutha fudgin name??

Posted by Anh at 6:21 PM | Comments (0)

August 14, 2005

Public events are LAME!!

Sugar Water Fesitival Afterparty
Hot Water Run and Jam Session
The Key Club
West Hollywood, California
August 10th, 2005

On my way to Sunset and West Hollywood. Dude like it took forever to find parking! Well parking on the streets because whats the point if we werent going to stay there for that long. The lines look pretty long, even for a guest list. After driving around for about 15 mins, back and forth, up and down Sunset Blvd. We decided to go into a parking structure right next to the Roxy. It wasnt too bad of a far walk. I couldnt believe it was like 3 or 4 years back i was here. Up and down Sunset hanging out like for the whole dang day!!

Got to the Key Club, looked on the list of names and we werent on it. Hit up the dude who was handling the tour and afterparty. Smitty, from what i recall. Ben calls him, however the reception was horrible. I noticed this dude on his phone too, pretty much talking on it after Ben talks and he was like 10 feet away. I decided to just yell his name and of course it was him. After a little small talk and what not. He got us our tickets to get on in. He walked us in. Oh.. Dude like i got this email from the Key Club that they were promoted this afterparty and it was 25 dollars to get in. Ben and I thought it was going to be a private thing but once i saw this, i knew it was gonna be really wack. What you going to do?? He walked us up to the door however they were locking down on camera phones. I was surprised but not really. Had to walk on back and put it away and yeah. There were two lines, one for people on the list and the other for whoever. And the whoever line totally was soo long.

After walking into the place, wow. Crowded much? This was soo packed, and it was ridiculous. I made my way down to the bathroom which is pretty nice. I mean bathrooms with all the stuff you can use and person to wipe your hands. I mean cmon. It pretty cool. Made our way back on up, still soo packed. To the point it was soo annoying. Bumping into people who think they are hip hollywood people, who paid 25 bucks to pay 10 bucks for drinks, and no dancing at all. Truly annoying.

I just decided to hang out next to the stairs because i wanted to be away from all the people. Like really.. SOO ANNOYING!! So just stood there and took up the sights. There wasnt really nothing to look at. I wanted to see what was going to go down. Rumor has it is that Eryka Badu was suppose to performed, and huge rumor Prince. I mean cmon, Prince! Thats sorta once in a life, you know?

As i said there and not doing anything. Friggin Chingy walks on up like he owns the place. All i gotta say is homeboy short. But i mean thats cool that he showed up and what not. After doing this junk for awhile and a security guard telling us to clear the door area. We made our way on up to the restuarant.

Nothing really was going on at all. Some music being played, and Bettie Paige on the monitor. It was really weird because her and someone else were putting on lingerie on each other. I was like uhhh what are we watching here, it was really softcore erotic and i kinda liked it. So just stood around staring at nothing. ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!! There was a bar, just got some water. Guess they promote designated drivers and such. Really like nothing to see or observe at all. I mean the people, guess they were cool and such but it was whatevers. I mean we wanted to stay because if Prince was going to perform, i mean thats something to see.

Ben saw one of his friends and i was whatevers. Turned out it was Paul Rodriguez's assistant, Morgan, who is pretty much his right hand man. Ben is friends with Paul, and goes out with him and such. While im just chillin sipping my water. Said whats up to Chris Lane who was rolling up again. Asked if i was going to the VIP room, he told me it was whatevers, so whats the point. We chatted a little bit more and he went off with his group. More and more chatting with Morgan. We wanted to leave and headed outside. It was pretty like 1-1:30ish. There is STILL a line to get in, wow are they going to be disappointed when they get in. Nothing is going on at all!! If you dont get into a club by 11, then dont even bother. Just go home. I mean i usually dont get to a club until 11:30. Anyways. Chatted some more. I totally forgot Morgan's friend, i think its Wendy. She works for that "Set it, and Forget it" oven guy or his wife or something. I dont remember. Just chilled while the girls smoked. Right when we left, Eryka Badu showed up. Coming out of her Porsche Chayenne. It almost 2 o clock, then she shows up. I mean it was afterparty, she was hosting it. Doors opened at 11. Come on now!! Oh well. Shes a diva, and gots the right to do that. Dude i am so in love with the Chayenne, i would soo want to get one. If i was rich!! Anywhos, headed back to the LA Weekly, got my car. Just another night...

Afterparties SUCK if the public is invited. All about the private ones. Less crowded, better people, and yeah. Least we didnt have to pay 25 bucks to see NOTHING!

2 days in a row, a 3rd is going to kill me. Props to Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. I dont know how they do it.

Posted by Anh at 1:58 AM | Comments (0)

Woman of Soul!!

Sugar Water Fesitival
Flowerty, Queen Latifah, Jill Scott, Eryka Badu
The Greek Theatre
Los Angeles, California
August 10th, 2005

The festival with some of the biggest names in true rhytham and soul. Flowerty, Queen Latifah, Jill Scott, and Eryka Badu. When i got wind of this event, i was kinda whatevers about attending. However when Ben said there was an afterparty for the concert that hes rolling to. I was like dude, i wanna soo be there. He had some thing with some chick he wanted to go with but she was being hella wack, so i was down to go. Like always. Im down for whatever!

Again rolled down to LA Weekly. Headed off to the Greek Theatre. This time we had to follow some list for parking. Before at the Black Eyed Peas, the parking attendants/valet people didnt know what was going so we had great parking. This time we went over to the actual parking lot where we were suppose to be. It wasnt too bad, at least it didnt cost 10 bucks and not stacked. If you never been to the Greek. General parking is on top of each other. So they just pack you in, and you pretty much cant leave after the show is done unless the people around you have left. It isnt too bad because most people rush out of the place anyways.

Got our tickets from this intern guy, an intern who was interning for promoters of the concert. Anywho, we went to go get something to grub on. Since Ben got my last time, i got him this time. Bought some water, chicken tenders with friends and a beer. Total?? 17 friggin bucks!! All i had to say was like are you kidding me? But whatever. Heres the funny thing. Me and Ben were thinking the same thing when we got up to the window. We asked if Stephanie was there, the chick said she was on the other side. Awww.. If you didnt read my Black Eyed Peas entry, Stephanie is the cute cute girl that helped us last time at that concert. I mean hella cute, like she didnt belong there.

Anywho, got up on our seats. Which were in section B. We were like what the heck. Hella wack seats to be hooked up with. Like we couldnt even really make out the singers faces. Its not a problem, but man did i feel the energy from the audience. Like its soo true, you know how they say when you watch a movie with mainly Black People. They cheer and yell out things, like high energy. All through this concert man it felt so fun and live and crazy. I loved it.

Flowetry was up first, it wasnt too bad. I thought Flowetry was only one chick but i guess it was a duo type thing. It wasnt too bad, i couldnt really get into it.

After their set, we hung out a little. There were two ladies in front of us overhear us talking about who was coming out next, since we recieved the set time and set and what not. After a little small talk, they told us they were kinda mad about their seats. They paid i think over 150 bucks for them and we were pretty far back. Well right in front of Section B. Ben and I were like, wow we shouldnt be bitching about our seats. We didnt even pay for them. Here we were like, we got so cheated when we got hooked up. But man, after hearing the prices, we shut up real quick.

Queen Latifah was up next. You havent heard much of her last album, the Dana Owens Album, however it did win a Grammy. I loved the her set, it was soulful, full of blues, she even did some of her old school hip hop songs. It was pretty cool, i like her version of "California Dream." It was soo soulful, like it was nice! Something funny happened to mhy during her set though. All of a sudden during one of her songs, i smelled weed. Yes i know, everyshow i go too. Someone has to do it. Its really popular with outside venues especially the Greek. So i turn to Ben and was like i smell weed. I looked around, turned around and see a guy take a hit and he did the two finger offer. you know. Hold the joint between your fore finger and thumb and yeah. When he offered it to me, i see this tall security guard come over and i turned around so fast.

Queen Latifah's set was awesome. He walked all over the crowded during one of her songs and shook people hands. After, we decided to take a walk around the place. Ran into Lennora which was a surprise and ALWAYS cool. She was with Holly from a radio station or something. Chattered a little, caught up between events and gave each other updates and such. She told us Monique was there last night at the concert. Tonight, Ice Cube was in the house and they thought Jermaine Dupri.

Going back to my seat, Ben makes a comment that theres your homeboy.. like jokingly and kinda condesending. But whats funny is that it was Chris Lane. I met him at the BET Awards and said whats up here and there. So i said whats up to him when he walked by, homie hug and asked whats up and such..

After a few mintues of talking, Jill Scott was up. She is amazing! A lot of things she was saying was like wow. Just about relationships and such. Made me think of someone, someone i "officially" ended with yesterday. It wasnt a good night to hear theses songs and things they had to say. One thing that was hitting me hard, "Sometimes in the best relationships, we do fuck it up." Isnt that the truth?? There were other things, the songs Jill Scott was singing. Mostly about seriving your man, and such. I thought that was kinda nice, not sure if i believe it. but yeah.

Again, left after she was done. Ran into Vanessa. Told us about Snoop Dogg charity thing. She told us about the hospitality room. Dude, we were on the list. Well Ben was, and we went in. They had food! OMG they had food, i dropped 17 bucks when there was free food waiting. BLAH! They had this huge plate, i mean huge plate of Swedish meatballs, various cheese and crackers, some meats, and egg rolls. Pretty much fingerfoods, much deserved food. It was soo food in that friggin situation. We went outside downstairs to the OPEN bar. Man i just love open bars, but Eryka Badu already was on stage and they couldnt serve during it. We just pretty much lounged it out, and man i was so tired from the other night. I was going to pass out in the friggin so comtable couch. It was really nice! We didnt even bother to go back to our seats to see Eryka. We just hung outside and looked at the big screen. I noticed some dude from Nick Cannon's Wild N Out show was chillin all pimped out.

The night was pretty much done there. We headed off to the afterparty. I love being in Hollywood at night, it calms me so... just driving, on my way to the Key Club.. to the Afterparty, i notice what either could be a tv or movie shoot at a hotel at a pool area. It had this floating ballon thing with a light inside which was used to light out the place. It was really cool to see. Down by the laugh factory, they had a red carpet with a backdrop for some animal thing. It was a benefit or whatever, but so much goes on in this city that no one can keep track all of. However im going to try!!!

Even in the best relationships, we do fuck it up -Jill Scott

Posted by Anh at 1:57 AM | Comments (0)

Mingling Hollywood style.

Vanguard Grand Opening
Hollywood, California
August 9th, 2005

A club opening.. Never been to one and i was kinda excited when i was invited. The thing was from 8 until midnight. The main thing on the invite that caught my eye was it pretty much said free drinks and free sushi. C’mon! I couldn’t pass that up at all.

I headed on over to LA Weekly to hang details about our upcoming events, our as in me and Ben, and events as in everything happening in LA and our trip to Miami for the Video Music Awards.

Traffic wasn’t too bad, not there a little over an hour. Which I am getting way too used to these days.

Got there and hung out. Tried to figure out details, he had to worry about his interview with Damon Dash. Got more details about the Teen Choice Awards, and about 100 other events. Had the Sugar Water Festival and afterparty the next day and Catalina with Pennywise after.

We left a little before 8 to check out the venue and vibe but of course couldn’t get up in there until after 8. I mean who goes to a party right when it opens?. You gots to be a little fashionably late.

The place was kinda hard to find. We were driving back and forth on Hollywood, up and down Sunset and Gower. We eventually found it, and it was kinda behind a building. Looking at the clock, it was around 8:12. We had to drive down this little alleyway and it pulled up to the valets. Jumped out and walked around. Didn’t really want to go in yet, but they had a red carpet type thing. However really much walked around for awhile.

Its funny because i totally remember the area. The church, the free clinic, the subway. A few years back i remember being in the area all night trying to get into a rave. I guess it was like 3 dollars to get in or something. We walked the whole perimeter, "we" as in "the Weiners" the guy division of the raving group. We walked all over it the place trying to find a way in. As i think about it now, i think Vanguard was where this rave was. However it was called teknoclub.

Anyways, after walking about 15 mins. We came back full circle. Decided to finally go in, checked in on the list, headed on in. Dude this place is huge. By far the biggest club I’ve been to. Most LA Clubs are so cramped, i mean just so cramped. This place was really big! Biggest dance floor and it’s about 2 stories, but its open! It’s a 20,000 square foot place, cherry wood floor, and you gotta have the video screens. This is where Deep and Heaven is held on respectively on the weekends.

Right when you walk in, you see the men and woman bathroom, make a quick left and you enter the actual club. On your right you see the only bar however pretty big. I say about 5 bartenders were manning it. Of course i had to hit it up. Got my usual Pineapple Juice and Malibu Rum. I love my girly drinks!! Ben got a Stella beer. Dont forget, it was complimentary!! However you can’t be all cheap, you gotta tip.

Proceeded to walk the floor and saw the sushi bar. It was any random sushi place it was sushi from Sushi Roku and Katana. These restuarants are owned by Ryan Seacrest. They have been featured on a show with Rachel Ray on Food network. As far was i know there are 5 of them in Los Angeles and a new one in Vegas. I knew the sushi was going to be good. I told my homie Manny who works with Ryan at KIIS FM to roll there to hang, however i didnt even see him or get in touch. So I wasn’t too sure if he was coming or not.

The sushi chefs were making hand rolls which was smart. I wasnt too sure what they were making there in front of you. So i pretty much just told them to make me anything. The guys made me Spicy tuna and spicy crab. Wow, it was pretty simple, but really really good. Makes me want to go to the restuarants. I been meaning too but haven’t had the time. I still have to go give Geisha House a second chance. i didn’t like it the first time. I also still have to try out Koi also.

Finally met Alex who was handling this party. I like to meet the publicists or contacts i have. she was pretty cool people. After a brief chat, i was done with my drink and wanted another. Got another Pineablu? Pineapple and Malibu. While i got my drinks, this girl standing next to me went up to me and asked if we met. In my head, i was thinking no i never met you,and this is such a line! However i was humoring her because im a nice guy like that, and she wasnt fugly. She goes on to see where she has met me at. Asked if i was at Coachella, and i was there only the first day and she was also. I guess she was in a band called The Randys or The Randies, don’t know, something like that. A little more small talk around her friends, i mean i was surrounded by them. Then as a parting gift, i gave her a low blow to my people, the people in general. But if you know me, i make fun of myself more than anyone else. Here's the line, "We all look the same anyways, so maybe..." She... well im saying she and such because i totally forgot her name. Anywho she said, "No No, you stand are hard to forget." Awww.. on that note, i said ill see you around, and got back to Ben. I wanted to give her my card, but oh well!

So on the invitation; it stated performances by the Aerial Arts. I guess they have a school at the club, which i saw at the website. They had girls swinging on swings. These cute girls in, it wasn’t skimpy however it wasn’t covered. Then i thought to myself, Vicky was doing aerial arts and i was hoping she was going to show up.

The entertainment has begun. Oh, i have to comment on the music. The only way i can describe the music is that it was like updated 80s music i suppose? I mean it wasn’t like music at Bang, Bang is the name of the club at the Ruby in Hollywood on Saturday. I really couldn’t get a handle on the music that was playing. Anywho, they had a magician who did the dated cutting a rope trick and the metal rings looping and such. Ben thought he looked like Danny Bonaduce and i kinda thought he was looking like James Cameron. I guess he was stuck in my mind since i am obsessed with the show Entourage, and they got a story arc with Cameron directing the made up move "Aquaman" with Vincent Chase, who is the main character, dawning the trident.

Proceeded back to the bar and got another of the same drink. Earlier we were told by Alex they had a patio smoking area that was Asian themed. Went outside since there wasnt really much else going on after the aerial arts. The weather was really nice out, it was a mild summer night. The outside area is the biggest ive seen in ANY club. You can actually walk around and breathe, not have to be in someone path of exiting smoke. You see two huge suspended waterfall/rain curtains. It gave the area a nice ambience. I mean you see like Asian tree inspired type things, and in the far back you see a huge Buddha. They have seats and benches everywhere, and even bungalows. I wouldn’t say that but like bed type lounging. I was like, this would be so cool with a chicks. Just hanging out, drink in hand, and getting close to a chick. Did a little people watching, talked a little to the drink servers, and went back on in inside.

Anywho, they had more aerial arts. They had two chicks dressed in American theme clothes. However form fitting and pretty hot doing their spinning and such. All this during Lenny Kravitz's remake of "American Woman" It was really nice. After or before, I don’t recall they had a ripped dude do his thing. Walked on the other side, and a chick and dude was doing their thing on the cloth ropes. That was really interesting. I really cant describe it, if you ever get a chance to see aerial arts. Go and check it out, it’s really amazing.

While watching this, saw really cute chicks around. This Asian chick was pretty cute and Ben said she got a nose job. Cute though! Some waiter chicks came up with a something Martini, like an exotic margarita or something. I forget the name. I took a sip, i mean it was good but earlier after i came back inside, i wanted to get at an Apple Martini. Dude, it was sooo strong, i mean it was so strong that you could have lit up my breath from out of my nose! After downing that, i was soo buzzed. At this point i had i think 3 Pineapple and Malibu, 1 Apple Martini, and a little sip of that exotic Margarita or something.

Got some more sushi, which had a line now. More mingling, some LA Weekly people were there. Met them and such. After chatting up a storm with me being so buzzed, i had to slow it down a little. I really didn’t want to, but i had to drive home and come back the next day. Got another Pineapple Malibu, this i asked for two cherries. YUM!! Then headed back outside to chill out. Now it got a little more crowded. Found a seat right in front of the Buddha. I decided to rub the Buddha stomach for goodluck and stuck a dollar on the stomach and made a wish. I don’t even think i made a wish but it was stuck there. I got Ben to do it also. I don’t know much about what you are suppose to do. I just learn it around, i should know even though my grandmother is a hella believer.

There was this funny dude with like those tambourines you have on your hands. Like what a belly dancer has, but they make the clicking sound you do with your tongue in your mouth. Anywho, there was two girls that walked by and wanted to rub the belly. I was like yall gotta put a dollar up on that and make a wish. They didn’t want to do it, but they wanted to take a picture of me and Ben rubbing it. I was like sure, uhuh ok.

Heard some music coming from the inside. Went back in and the group VHS or Beta was performing. It was around 11, and i kinda enjoyed the music. It was pretty cool, a Depeche Mode sounding band. At this point, people were already leaving. I mean the sushi was getting packed up, good thing the bar wasn’t. We wanted to check out the outstairs, which was small but gave a really cool view of the dancefloor and stage. Then went back down. I ended up getting a water to make sure i sobered up to drive home. I really wanted a Hypnotic though, i still haven’t tried it out. I’m sure all you guys right now think i am some alcoholic. Trust me i am far from it. I barely stand beer and i only drink socially, but more socially if its in LA. That’s just what I do. You know how we do!!

No drinking and driving kids!!!

Posted by Anh at 1:51 AM | Comments (0)

I Take it Back! Lets get Retarted!!

Black Eyed Peas
The Greek Theatre
Los Angeles, California
July 28, 2005

Finally i day has come. The Black Eyed Peas, i was looking forward to this for awhile. When i got the cd, "Monkey Business," a few weeks before it came out, I bumped it like none other, and its such a great cd. "Elephunk" was a great cd also. Ever since Fergie got up into the Black Eyed Peas, they are a forced to be reckoned with. Tonight, at the Greek, it was the night for these super stars.

I love the Greek, it’s a wonderful venue. First times i was there, was for the Josh Groban concerts. It looks so big when you sit hella far away. But when you are upfront it looks so small. It looks much smaller when all the seats are filled. Well tonight i had Orchestra seats.

I got there a little past 7:30, i think, well from what i recall. I wanted to check out Fatty Koo. I wasn’t too sure what time they were on, but i wanted to see them and perhaps say what’s up to them, since i haven’t seen them since the BET Awards.

When i got in to the place, they were playing music, but it wasn’t live. I figured either i missed Fatty Koo or they weren’t on yet. who knows..

Me and Ben went to check out our seats which were pretty dang good. Then went off to walk around and get something to eat. I walked pass the photographers and i noticed a photographer who i see everywhere. I shook his hand and what ups and what not. I find out later from Ben that he’s a photographer for LA Weekly, Wild Don. He’s pretty tamed if you ask me. Good guy nonetheless.

Vanessa, who is promoting the show, went up to me and asked if i was Ben. I told her Ben, was the one next to me. Snoop Dogg is doing a benefit for his football league thing, and she told us Ice Cube was added to the bill. It’s going to be a pretty good bill.

Afterwards we got in line to get some food. So we went to get some food or whatever. We got up to the window and see this hella cute chick. Like wow cute, so cute its like, all i could think is that she doesn’t belong working at a food stand thingy serving rich snotty Los Angeles posers. She has a nice complexion and tall cutie body. Wow. Her name was Stephanie, haha. Got some water and fries and yeah. There wasn’t any ketchup there, and the lady came out with it and pumped my fry cup with it. All I could say after was, “uhh can I have some fries with my ketchup?”

Got back to our seats. The ushers are so strict with a ticket which is good but I had my hands full. The dude said he still have to see my ticket, so I made him hold my junk and got my ticket out. Talib Kweli was on stage, I haven’t heard a lot of his music even thought I have his latest album, “Beautiful Struggle.” I tried to enjoy it as much as I could. I was still waiting to see if Fatty Koo was coming out or not.

It was nice to attend a show and not worry about taking notes, notes I would use to review the show. Too bad that sure didn’t happen after Talib got off stage. I wanted to check on something. I went and talked to the girl who gave us our tickets. I wanted to see what happened to something. She told me what went down, and I thought it was really weird and kinda unprofessional for someone to do what they did. Whatever. I totally didn’t know it was Melissa, who i was talking to. I met her at a different venue. I didn’t notice it was her, but nonetheless, still a cutie. :)

Back to my seat, this dude is like sitting on top of his folded seat. It was totally annoying, i mean the concert didnt start yet but it was annoying. The man next to me told him to sit down, he wouldnt, being all rude, saying it hasnt started yet. It was like abreif conversation. I got annoying a little after, and he said he was sitting down. Dude this guy was really dense. I ALWAYS seem to be around characters no matter what event i attend. It never fails. The show started, everyone stood up. Whats funny is that this dude didnt even have the ticket to be sitting where he was. Some chick came and told him to move, then her date came and he got out. Which i was glad, but i never let up on that. I wanted an usher to check his ticket. Whatever...

Heres what they performed:

Hey Mama
Smells like funk.
Dum diddly.
That's the joint
Dont Lie
Shut up
The apl song
Bebop
Its a hoilday, labor day
Punp it
Where's the love
My style.
Don't phunk with my heart first single..
My humps
Lets get it retarded.

Fergie was dressed in capris and a gren track jacket. Pretty tamed to her usual outfits however im sure it was because the concert was outdoors. She seem to have a rally monkey attached to her belt. I couldnt really see it. Apl look like he was sporting a tradional Pilipino outfit. Wil.i.am was up in a usual vest, in this case blue vest and a tie. Taboo, he straight looked like he was preaching the very next day in his white get up.

They were doing minor covers all night. "Lean Back" from Fat Joe mixed into "Thats the Joint." Amerie's "1 Thing," They all had their solos. They had breakers on stage during the break of "Its a Hoilday(Its Labor Day). THey also had a really long instrumental part introcuing the band and having their solos. Wow was that long. They kinda brought down the show a little, since it was right after a wardrobe change. Which only involved removing a few article of clothing.

Overall the concert was pretty tight. I couldnt believe i knew all the songs they performed, but then again i like their albums. I was kinda hoping Justin Timberlake would appear during "My Style" since hes on the track. However he didnt. Well what are you gonna do? It was a pretty cool show. Wished i had better pictures, but i didnt come to review the show, but i ended up doing it. Oh another tight thing, Wil.I.Am bust out a friggin 2 foot cell phone during, "Where is the Love" and tells the audience to wave there cell phones. I LOVE looking back.. its soo such a beautiful sight.

As the title says, i take it back. I take back the comment i made that Anger Management was the best show ive seen. This one, with all its energy was pretty rad. Tomorrow i have to drive down to Miramar to shoot Jessica Simpson and Willie Nelson at the Navel Base. Guess they doing a preview of Dukes of Hazzard and hanging with the families. I really hope i make this since its my first assignment with this photo agency. UPDATE: Didnt make it due to problems with my car. Nice huh? My first assignment and i blow it.

Read my review on the show

I liked Fergies Hump, and Lump Lumps.. :P

Posted by Anh at 12:52 AM | Comments (0)

July 26, 2005

One of the best shows I've EVER been to.

Anger Management Tour III
Hyundai Pavilion at Glen Helen
Devore, California
July 23, 2005

The biggest bill of artists i all wanted to see. You cant really beat Lil Jon, 50 cent, and Eminem.

One my way there, wow people were driving mad! This Expedition slammed there brakes behind me. You can see the people int he car tripping out and i was like uhhh.. i hope they friggin stop and what not. Man, it was really crazy getting there.

I got there around 7:30. Which was pretty much late. Again no one there knew anything. Why? Asked people where press parking was and i got led everywhere. Im just glad they got me into the VIP lot right next to the tour buses.

The music was already bumping, i figured someone was already up on stage and i was mixing on some artists. Got to my seat, Orchestra 3 Row Y. It was pretty damn close, compared to the the lodge and lawn.

Ok, so Lil Jon is hella tight. There were these two chicks in the row in the front of me. Wow, kinda trashy but not really. I mean the cute chick, ok the cuter of the two had her crack just hanging out all over the place. She so wasnt wearing underwear and she had a skirt on. THE HOOCHIES ARE OUT TONIGHT!!! Her friend was getting low!! i mean like her butt was touching the floor!! I was like daaannnngggg.. that can be very very good skill to umm... ok ok.. off track. Back to Lil Jon..

They performed pretty much any song you can imagine. "Get Low" "Saltshaker" "Wait" It was pretty off the hook. Ill link you to my article at the end with the details of the show in cliff note form. I am already late on this entry and way too lazy to get into full details.

After Lil Jon was done, i walked around and looked for my homie. I knew he was in the Orchestra section just dont know where. I called his photographer's number which was hard to dial through. Greg, the photographer, i got a hold of him. He proceeded to tell me he got kicked out of the venue. I was like what the fudge. He gave me little details that he couldnt shoot 400 feet away, and this and that. Wow that sucked. He came with my homie, so i wonder what he was going to do.

I walked by the photographer section. Which was hella far. It was where the box seats meet the aisle then the lodge. Saw the homie Fernando from the New York Post. I swear i see this dude everywhere! Small talked and brought up Greg, and she just shook his head and said he got booted!

I finally found my homie, he was dead center Row N? Like 12 rows back. I just chilled there since there were seats opened. It was a perfect view of the stage.

50 Cent was up next. Jumped out of the friggin stop of the stage and got in to "What Up Gangsta." The whole G-Unit was in the house, Young Buck, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, Olivia, and Mobb Deep. Yes, i said it Mobb Deep. They have joined G-Unit, i thought it was sooo random because i remember back in high school. They were pretty hot with their tracks.

Other songs performed:

Magic stick...
Candy shop..
Just a little bit..
Disco inferno..
Get it twisted...
Hate it or Love it...
In da club..
Wangsta...
I wanna get to know you...
21 questions...
Smile...

Surprised 50 Cent didnt say anything about The Game. Cause you know Game would be talking mad mad head at his shows. He always does!

Their set was pretty long, even though they didnt really do the full songs. However it was still tight to see 50 Cent perform.

Eminem, up next.. The intermission was so long, i think it was over 30 mins. I noticed Gene and Burny was like in the first row. Last time i saw them was at a wack club Ivy in Riverside. They were bartenders. Burny, wow.. I think she got a booby job or something. But heres the think her boobs are like a big C, shes like 4' 11" and most likely weight around 100 pds. Yeah, paint you a picture? and shs a white washed Latina with a big booty. HAHA.. Anyways.. i walked up to say whats up but this security guard was hella being rude. He thought he was all tight being a rented security guard and crap. I was like whatevers..

Finally Eminem got up. His stage was very interesting. Kinda hard to describe. Just a wall of doors 3x3. It was just pretty tight.. Between the spaces of the doors were video screens, and in the middle the doors were replaced with video screens. He had two "E" light fixture thingys hovering over.

Proof helped him out on "Mosh." He had a dude walking around in a suit with a mask of George W. Bush. Pretty much mocking him.

"Business..." "Rain Man"

He mooned the crowed after he was talking about the Tabloids. He stated one of them said the moon was going to explode, and which i guess it did when he showed his bare ass to the crowd.

"Ass like that". The DJ was controlling Eminem's Crank Yankers puppet..

He did a skit about Mariah Carey, if yall didnt know. He has some history with her. A toilet rolled out of one of the doors and he started to "Vomit" and that went into the song "Puke"

"Like toy soldiers."

Wow there were cute chicks like everywhere. But they werent there the whole time, you can tell people were just bouncing around. There was this mom who had these huge.. yeah... I took it she brought her daughter and boyfriend and all i can say is that i am surprised they were getting it on right then and there.

After giving the audience a hip hop lesson. Which included old school songs, "Ladidadi we like to party" "Say he's just a friend"..
"G thang." then went into his first commercial single, "My name is..."

Em posse, D-12 came out. Performing "How come" They were missing the biggest guy from the group who is pretty hilarious, Bizzare. He was backstage and told Eminem and the rest of the guys from D-12 to get off stage before he got on. He performed "Rockstar" in Yellow coat and hat that looks like fruit on it... It was pretty funny..

"40 oz" with all the guys... then into "My Band", at the break down.... Curtain of light fireworks.. Boy band dancing....

Intermission type with Stat Quo and Obie Trice...

"Stan"... Lighter, cell phones... Lit up the pavilion. I just love being in the front and when they have a slow song people wave their cell phones, you look back and its amazing. I just love lights, its just weird. Im surprised i didnt rave more and did Extasy. Totally off subject sorta..

"The Way I Am" with Middle finger balloons two waving in the center of the stage.

"Patiently Waiting" with 50 cent.

Obie trice.... "Got some teetf"

Stat quo performed and brought out Nate Dogg....

"Cleaning out my Closet"..

"Mocking bird"..

Apoligize to Michael Jackson...skit throwing baby dolls around with circus music....

"Just lose it"..

"Lose Yourself"... was the encore. Before he got into it, throughout the show, he had video of him in his dressing room, looking like he was comtempting suicide. He had a gun and everything, however when he decide to shoot, it was a gag gun.

I got out of the place pretty quick. I say less than 10 mins, my homie took like an hour. Dude that hella sucked... The show was pretty good. I like it. Of course there were songs i wanted Eminem to perform. However im sure he did at the other Anger Management Tours.
I would have been tight if Dr. Dre came out, that would have been hella tight, or even Snoop Dogg.

Read my review of the show.

Posted by Anh at 12:46 AM | Comments (0)

July 20, 2005

Call me Seth Cohen from The O.C., im heading to Comic-Con.

San Diego International Comic-Con
San Diego Convention Center
July 15 - July 16, 2005

Friday July 15th

Once again, July has come around the corner and Comic-Con is back. I have been going for the last 2 years, and since i get free access. Its an excuse to be in beautiful weather and get away from Rancho.

I friggin wake up around 6:30, pretty much made my friend drive. Why? He has a convertible, and it would be hella cool to have a road trip with the top down. I am in love with convertibles.

Of course he lagged it, im sick of that junk. Headed off to Diego around 8, well a little before it. The drive was pretty nice, nothing too special. Nothing too special until we see a motorcycle and BMW sped on by. My homie turns on his turbo and we are off. We were going so fast, weaving through traffic like it was nothing. The car didnt seem like it was going that fast. I soon later find out we were going around 140. After doing this for about 5 mins, my homie turns off an exit and the turbo. The car seems to be tripper out.

Lets just say the car was pretty much done for. The engine smoked out of the exhaust. Looked like oil was leaking out of the air intake. Checked the oil levels and looked like nothing. Dont want to get much into it, lets say we got towed home. Towed about 65 miles. I mean dude we were sooo close i didnt want to go back home! Jeff our tow guy, giving us stories all the ride home. I like took a nap but was still conscious, hearing the dude talk and talk and talk.

Got pretty much home around 12:30. Kinda pissed cause i had my Friday planned, now i gotta figure out what i am going to do. Pretty much, i didnt do anything! Left my phone in the car, so i didnt have numbers to hit up to see if someone wanted to do something, or called. Lets just say my Friday was boring as heck!!!

---

Saturday July 16

Head down to Diego again early in the morning. I dont think i left until like 8ish because again people lag. It was a good hour and a half drive. I mean it was surprisingly quick. Then again ive drove across country in 2 days. So 2 hours isnt going to kill me.

Got there a little before 10. The convention center started it things up at 10 and what not. Drove around looking for parking which totally sucked, however good thing we came across a parking complex that just opened. It was close and only 10 bucks.

I wanted to hit up the Hilton for breakfast since thats what ive done for the last 2 years. However the person i was wish didnt want to, and blah.

Picked up my press badge, looked at the schedule and tried to plan out my day. Noticed there was LOST panel thingy and headed over there. Walked into the huge ballroom that holds around 4000 people. Went up to the front to see if they had open seats in the reserved press seating. Guess what? They didnt even have shit for it. The past two years they did and this time they didnt. More about my gripes about this Comic Con coming later.

I just stood in the aisle way, looked like they were playing an episode of a new show coming this fall, INVASION. I wonder what the show is about.. hmm... After the episode, the little girl and creators. Wasnt very much of an interesting panel.

Afterwards, they showed a montouge of LOST things. Deleted scenes and what not. Maggie Grace and Josh Halloway were the cast that appeared on the panel, alongside creators and producers. This is where security was stepped up and was annoying. They didnt like photographers shoot any pictures close to the stage or any good angles. I was running around left and right trying to get a good shot. Some old lady was trying to get up on me saying i took enough pictures. I didnt even listen to her and took a couple steps away from her and took more. She had the nerve to put her hand on me. I then proceeded just to walk away from her and shoot.

The panel was cool i suppose. There of course had to be someone who was an aspiring actor trying to get his shot by asking a question. So lame. No other things really stood out of my mind. Questions werent provoking, or even answers revealed. Just makes me cant wait for the second season to begin!!

Headed off to the floor to see if anything was interesting going on. The usual floor of comic books, cult stuff and trekkies and storm troopers. It was way way too crowded this year and i totally hated it. Walked the floor up and down to see if there was anything to buy. Im not really into much of the stuff. I had this phase of comic books, but its pretty much gone.

Got lunch, of course the prices were insane.. Went back to the ballroom and saw it was the Stargate panel. I thought it was going to be over and the Kevin Smith one was coming up. After sitting there for like 20 mins. I looked over the schedule, wrong friggin room. Rushed over to Hall C.

Tried to get some sort of entrance to the place. Again no press entrance. We had to wait in line. It was soo stupid. I swear they changed who was in charged and no one did crap. Waited in line.

Got in, the place was packed and man there was soooo many people. This place held more than 4000 people. Walked to the front, took my pictures. Again security didnt know crap. Oh took pictures of Kevin Smith. I say on of the greatest speakers. Really funny and tells stories that are soo intriguing. Watch An Evening With Kevin Smith. Its been playing on Starz lately. He wore a suit this time which is odd, since usually he wears a sweat jacket and shorts.

Dont remember much of the discussion. I know it was funny. He is involved Degrassi, which i didnt even know. Ive never seen an episode, but he made it funny. He guest directed, he also has a few episodes out called Jay and Silent Bob do Degrassi. I am soo going to check that out.

After that was done, it was about 2. I was dead tired with no energy. So i decided to leave. I was going to missed Universal movie of Serenity, The Fog, King Kong and such, but whatever.

Hit up Nicole to see if she wanted to chill, she had to go call her boyfriend. Blah blah.. Its all good.

Headed home, dude i was like falling asleep on the way home. But i made it. Had Jesse party to head to.

Let me give you the cliff note version. Party was ok, Danni is a crazy drinker and hot dancer. Casey was suppose to come but her butt was on lock down. Chilled with the homies. Really bored half the time. Sean was jocking Danni, was being too annoying and rough. I was pretty much bored hanging with the frat people. Left at 1:00. Done! I was sooo antisocial at this friggin kickback. Thats why i dont party in Rancho, usually boring and high school reunions, which it was. Not like the other parties we've had. Thats for sure. Those ones gone down in history....

Comic-Con totally sucked this year. Hope next year is better. It was nice to be in Diego again.

Posted by Anh at 12:20 AM | Comments (0)

July 14, 2005

Its a Small World after all!!! its a Small small world....!!

Disney Vintage 50th Anniversary Collection Launch
Fred Segal Santa Monica
July 13th, 2005

I didn’t know much of this event, I was invited to cover it and there was three reasons I RSVPed to it. 1. Lots of celebrities were gonna be there. 2. It was at Fred Segal in Santa Monica and vie never been there. 3. It was a party with friggin celebrities! Yes, I know I am a celebrity whore.

I invite Casey to come since she wasn’t doing anything and vie been trying to hang with her for the longest time. Finally she comes with and I was like, YES! I got a carpool dummy. HAHA jk.. She had all these questions about what was going to go on, and I was like all you have to worry is what you are wearing and if you can come. I would handle the rest and introduce you to my world.

Of course I had a suggestion what she had to wear. Of course I initially said skirt but I was in the mood for capris. I friggin love capris on a chick. I think it’s so much hotter than a skirt. Capris, jeans folded up, or pants folded up. Its sooo hot!!! Of course with capris, you got to wear some heels.

Got ready and headed over to her casa. We had to make a stop at the mall since I was expect lots of celebrities. I might need another memory card to shoot them all. I need to be prepared, plus also Casey wanted a shake. I figured to kill two birds with one stone.

After picking her up, we headed over to the Victoria Gardens. I walked her into Johnny Rockets and rushed over to Ritz Camera to pick up another gig of memory. I was there before someone, but as always I was nice and let someone go ahead of me. This guy had questions left and right, I stood there for 10 minutes pacing around. I was so close to just walking out of there. It was getting close to 6:00. Luckily someone else came out of the back and I asked what cards they had, and settled. Paid for it and rushed back to the Rockets.

Went in and hung for a little bit. Danni was there working and what not. She is such a friggin sweetheart. Danni might be my Black Eyed Peas buddy on the 28th at the Greek, if I get approved to cover the show. I haven’t seen BEP perform for almost a year. Fatty Koo is going to be opening for them and I wanna say what’s up to Eddie B, Josh and the ladies!

Headed on over to Santa Monica. Don’t remember the conversation over there. Don’t get me wrong, i'm sure it was totally stimulating and interesting, I just don’t remember. I do remember I got lost cause Google Maps directions suck. I had to hope on my phone and use Mapquest. Not an impression I wanted to give on our first outing.

Eventually I was on the 10 West, backtracked going east and back on the 10 West to the 101 North to the 110 South back to the friggin 10 West. My gut knew I should have stayed on the 10 in the first place, but I did it to be sure. Good thing Casey was sleeping anyways. :)

Finally got on the right way. Check in was at 7:30, about 20 minutes late. Arrivals weren’t until 8 so it wasn’t too bad. We drove around for like 15 mins trying to find parking, going in circles. There was a so called designated Press parking lot. So didn’t see it anywhere! Ended up parking at some valet lot, which cost around 5 bucks. I kind of found a parking lot like right next to where we had to be, but it was one hour and a cop drove by. I asked him if it was ok, but he was like the owners can still call and get you towed. So gay!

Walked on over to Fred Segal. Saw the whole red carpet; well it was actually Yellow carpet with the photo backdrop. There were photographers already there, and I saw table that I thought I was going to check in. However it was weird, all they did was tell me to stand somewhere and gave me my credentials. They didn’t check id or who I was with or anything. Kind of sloppy if you ask me.

I had Casey stand next to me while I took the photos... Melissa Rivers, Jenna from Survivor, Steven from Real World Las Vegas, Christy Carlton Romano, Randy Jackson, Hoobastank and many others..

Every so often I would look at Casey to see if she was having fun or enjoying herself or not. Honestly, she looked so bored! I was feeling so bad; here I am kind of enjoying myself talking to the celebrities. I love saying hi to them. It’s great... There she is looking hella cute, and with a bored bored look.

Eventually the carpet kind of got dead. Many of the photographers rushed out of there quick. Of course the publicists were all like, people are still coming. The Espy awards just finished blah blah. I mean why would Hilary Duff show up if she has a concert at the same time in Orange County? Why would Vince Vaughn show up, if has due to be in New York for TRL the next day? It totally didn’t make sense, and the publicity was so poorly executed.

Me and Casey stuck around for a little, when another photographer came out and talked to another photographer next to me. Of course I ease dropped, and I heard something about, I can lead you in. I looked at Casey and said, in 2 seconds i’m going to ask to go with. Which I did, and he was fine with it. While rushing to the entrance, we all introduce ourselves to one another. Walked passed the security and we were in!! I was like, hers my chance to cheer up Casey since she seem soo bored and I felt soo bad.

Got led in, of course me and Casey made a rush to the bar. I needed to loosen up, and the night from what I observed was kind of bad. As our way to the bar, we pass by the guys from Hoobastank, Randy Jackson, people we saw from the carpet. We were rubbing elbows with them. We had a drink, which I think was The Hook? They had drinks that were in common with Disney. Apple Poison Martini, The Cosmo-Minnie-ton or something like that. It was soo random. But the drinks were good. They had veggie sticks, fruit cups, popcorn. It was like a mini Disney-land carnival. The best thing they were serving besides the alcohol was the chocolate covered strawberries. These berries were huge and it had the white and regular chocolate tuxedos.

We totally over looked a room, and it looked pretty happening. Got in there and it seemed to have some fun fun stuff. Towards the left was Minnie taking pictures with people, and towards the left was what looked like a beading station. In between were guys holding Mickey eared balloons. Joseph Reitman just finished taking a picture with Minnie; I wanted to check out his picture so I did. If you don’t know who he is, he is Shannon Elizabeth's ex-husband. Her last husband. Waited a couple minutes to check the photo, which turned out cute.

Casey and I wanted to take a picture, however we didn’t have a booklet which allowed us to take the picture. Went over to get another drink and found some booklets. SCORE!! Went back with our Apple Poison Martini, waited in line. Got our picture with Minnie Mouse!!

They had a Disney Caricature drawing station next to the bar. It looked so pack; there was a list of names and Disney Characters on a drawing board. I would’ve wanted them to draw me a tight Disney character; however we just saved time and got drawings he already did during the day. Casey picked Pluto, and I went with Mickey, and then proceeded to go outside to get some air.

Walk by Doug from Hoobastank, Andy Milonakis, and others. Just another day in my life. Found a spot to enjoy our drinks, get air, and take in the vibe. Rob, the guy that walked us in came and said what’s up. We chatted a few, talked about some war stories, the night among other things. My goal whenever I do an event is to meet something new and gain a contact. Which I did, and he’s a great contact! Met and pretty much knows David Fosters wife. I really enjoyed talking to Rob, got his info, to hit him up about other events.

The night ended fairly quickly, party was pretty much done by 11. Most of the people, who walked the carpet, came and then left. Got another drink and decided to take some balloons. We both had like 5 plus, of the colors. I told Casey we should take pictures on the carpet, so she can load it up to her Myspace. OH! Before we decided to do this, we had a little conversation with Andy Milonakis. This dude is soo totally random! Jimmy Kimmel discovered him, put him on his show a couple times and now he has his own show on MTV on the Sunday Stew. Hella lucky dude, talked to him about the show and other things. He was hitting up a poker game near by; I wanted to check it out, however the ends aren’t rolling in.

Anywho, rolled out to the carpet, wasn’t too sure if the backdrop and floor lights were still out. They were, so got Casey up on the carpet. We had to put our balloons somewhere because I can’t shoot with one hand especially with my long lens on it. The dude that were working the event, like the pretty boys who get hired to look pretty and to pretty much be whoever bitch were still out there. They got into the pictures and what not. During shooting the pictures, the balloons flew away. I tired them to the rail, but I guess not tight enough. Chatted with them a few, good ol boys from USC. Of course they had to be frat boys from Alpha Ki. Got me another somewhat contact to party it off at USC. Gotta love it!

Took them pictures of Casey, went back into the party to get more balloons and another drink. We had the last drink of the night! Red Bull and Vodka aka Crunk Juice. I’m not a big fan of Red Bull, so she had it. Got our balloons, and left. At the end of the night I think I had like 4 drinks and she had like 5. These drinks weren’t weak, trust me. I had a minor minor buzz, while she was full on buzz.

Got back to my car, I was kind of freaking out because I didn’t know what time the valet closed. Here we are walking with a fist full of balloons, balloons with Mickey ears. Of course, the last car. Good thing they didn’t close until 11:30. Tipped the dude and put our balloons away, and headed off home.

This is where Casey jumps on the phone and chats away. Listening to her, she is soo friggin like fun, its ridiculous. Hella spontaneous. Her conversations are sooo random! But I mean unno, it’s hard to explain. All I can say? I hella like it a lot. Bad thing, I haven’t had my wild side out in soo long. I've been a little too serious, and it totally sucks! I want to see how this panes out, but if I can predict things. I’m gonna be having loads of friggin fun, and the old Anh will be back!! I've notice I been a little too serious and not as easy going as I used to be. I need something or someone to friggin get me back to the crazy Anh.

Casey has a horrible obsession with the Branding Iron. Like its bad, I mean I LOVE to dance to, but I wouldn’t do it more than 10 mins from LA. The vibe in LA is much better than the one in the Inland Empire. People have nothing else better to do and they go dance there. A handful of people think they are hard because they go there all the time, and it’s quite annoying. Also, it’s a friggin reunion half of the time.

As we drive back, I was contemplating if I wanted to go. I mean I had this minor buzz, and wanted to dance it off. Casey is a friggin dancer, that is always hot. One of my weaknesses, a dancer. I hella wanted to check her out, so I was like fawk it, lets go. On our way there, we had to make a pit stop for Casey. I thought it was kind of funny. She told me a story, a hella deep personal story. This kind of story you kind of shouldn’t tell anyone. Especially one a first date type deal, but if you know me, I am down for whatever and I don’t really judge much. So she tells me, it was pretty interesting. I think I am one of two people that know. I was trying to think about something deep to tell her to be even. However nothing popped into my head.

Headed off to the BI as it’s commonly known. There was a huge line, we both said screw it, but she had a friend who was in the parking lot, and she wanted to say hi to him. I was whatever’s, dropped her off and parked. Let her do her thing, while I plan what else I was going to do. As I observed over there, I see 2 white dudes, and I think ehh typical white guys who think they are hard. Ill just stay away and not try to start anything. After like 10 minutes she came back and I drive off. While I was drive, some dude went up to the car, Casey screams out Tim, I friggin look and I was like what the heck? I know this guy. I put the car and park, look at him and he runs to my side of the car and I jump out. I was like what the hell, what’s up man!! Gave him a hug and was like wow... Then I see the white guys. One of them is mother effin Alex Martin, and another guy is Isaac Mesa. There was one random dude, Brad something. I was like are you kidding me?? In my head, I was thinking 2 things, nice I look cool in front of Casey, and second? This is why I don’t go out in Rancho. HAHA

We said what’s up and what not. Blah blah. The small talk. First thing I ask Isaac, dude where’s your sister? HAHA. Lisa Mesa, one of the sweetest and hottest girls I know. I gain touch with her, and then lose it, and so on. At this point, I haven’t had contact with her for months. Tim, has a gay twin brother who goes to school with my older brother. Kind of how I met them. I don’t recall how I meet people. After some small talk, and a surprised Casey. They were doing a Del Taco run at University near Cal State San Bernardino. I was whatever with it, I left it up to Casey if she wanted to go. Before I head off, Tim ask, was that you on MTV? Of course I give the, what the heck are you talking about line, and admit I was. I can’t believe people remember that though, it’s been like 2 years.

Headed over to Del Taco, hung and chatted. They got some food, I didn’t get any cause it was late and dude i’m a broke Asian. I don’t know how, but Alex and Tim went into like sexual situations and the names. Honestly, they are pretty sick and kind of demeaning to woman. Don’t get me wrong, i’m not some woman activist, but some of these names and situations are really raunchy and down right disgusting. But here I am taking it in, prior to this Tim tells me to do something or more of what I should be doing. I kind of laughed it off, i’m not going to say what it is, but it’s already crossed my mind.

We did this for about 30 mins, and headed off home. I say I dropped her off around 2:30, maybe even before. Right when I leave the street I get an IM from Emeline. I was kind of surprised? Because it’s kind of funny, I think I got angry about something. So I kind of thought it was funny she would IM Me. This is the second time she IM'd me when i’m a little peeved with her. Either she doesn’t know I am, or does know, but doesn’t care? Either way I guess I don’t care due to the fact that I can’t stay mad and it’s been kind of a surprise lately, but most definitely a welcome one. Still kind of funny she IM's me like not even 1 minute passed after dropping off Casey. She always has impeccable timing. :)

Anywho, she asks if I wanted to get Starbucks with her in the morning. Again, still surprised.. I usually am the one asking if she wanted to hang out, which I am kind of gonna stop doing. I was like, i’m down and what not. Called her up since I was driving and didn’t want to type and what not. She commented about my post about the Hollywood Bowl here on this website. I wasn’t too sure what she was talking about, I need her to tell me what she was talking about again. Unless any of you guys know what she is talking about, tell me what’s up then. A thing that bothered me, is that I been noticing she’s been keeping things from me. Like little things, well kind of sorta don’t know. Nonetheless keeping things from me, I would give her a chance to say something, but she wouldn’t. At this point, i’m not really bothered much yet, however I am sure give it some time and it will manifest itself. Kind of feel like i’m being deceived, but whatever. It isn’t a problem just yet, but i’m sure soon it’s going to be.

It’s just kinda funny, we started talking back again when I am assuming that she isn’t with her boyfriend anymore. All during her relationship with this guy, I would see away messages that are quite humorous and at first bothered me. That stopped after I didn’t read her away message or anything connecting to her anymore. So all during the relationship with this guy, I wasn’t apart of it at all. Now that it seems to be over, we are talking and sorta hanging out again. Which is great? But im not a big fan of people deceiving me. I also noticed she’s been a little happy go lucky with another guy. That is totally a red flag. Im sure you are guessing, another guy I have to compete with. Not at all. I’ve seen what happens to her guys, and I’ve even experienced it. But it would rub me sooo effin wrong, if she broke up with her last boyfriend, to get friendly with this new guy. I think that is totally wrong, and I can’t have friends or associate with people like that. Granted, I wasn’t a big fan of her last boyfriend; homie was on stalking status, knowing my Myspace and messaging me the day after I got it again. Having all my screen names on his buddylist. I mean cmon now. But if she burned him for another guy, then I don’t want anything to do with her at all. I bet you are thinking, what if she burned him for you. I wouldn’t know how to answer that, since that didn’t happen, but she has burned me for him. She may think she hasn’t but she has. I really don’t care to be honest. This is all on her. However, If I do find out that’s how it went down. Im over it. Jasmine got that feeling that had out of me, so I kinda pretty much think straight.

Am I still going to hang with her? Only if she askes me. Im tired of asking her, and getting excuses and what not. I’ve told her 100 times to check out my calendar and see what she wanted to go to. Still no avail. Just another excuse. I’m not really into “dating” her much at this moment. So she has to approach me. I was told she was going to be pretty free for the next couple days, well able to do whatever she wants. I would LOVE to see if she askes to do something. If not, i guess im not. Always putting some sort of effort towards NOTHING!. Oh im sure you are saying she approached you to go to Starbucks, well Coffee Bean that morning. I kinda have doubts about that too. Im sure she asked around and no one would friggin wake up at that insane time to get Coffee. However she knew I would. So I take it, after asking a few people, she had to settle for me. Since she did kinda ask me like at 3 in the morning. You do the math?

Funny thing, I mentioned it a little bit in my Hollywood Bowl blog. I don’t think she even caught what I was trying to say at one point. The day before Sondheim’s, I still havent got noticed if I had press tickets and photo pass. I told her that she should just plan something else. She asked if I was still gonna go, and I was like yes I was going to go. Blah blah. Heres the thing that bothered, I didn’t give her a straight answer if I was going with or without press tickets. I kinda waiting to see if she would say something to the likes of, “Well if we didn’t go, we could go do something else.” NOTHING!!! I didn’t event get that, it was either Hollywood Bowl or fuck Anh, im going to go do something else. No, well we can hang out, go see a movie, something. What do you wanna do? She just agreed to leave her night open. I was sooo like what the fawk?? I see how it is. This summer is most definaely going to repeat. I have to plan huge events, to have her hang out. No lets get dinner, come visit me at work, or movie. NOTHING. What she doesn’t know? After I stopped talking to her, I started calling people who would want to go. If she couldn’t even suggest something else. Screw that! Back to the matter of the day at hand…

While I am talking to her about her day, I head up to Alex. He’s being wanting to get food all night long, and I thought since I was near by I would pick him up. When I get there, he’s already eating something and I was like are you kidding me? During this, I got this idea, so I head over to Em's house since it’s on my way home. Tell her to get out so I can give her something. OF COURSE!! She couldn’t just walk outside get her thing. I kind of figured it was going to be something, man.. One day I swear, i’m going to catch her off friggin guard.

After like 5 mins of me pacing around her street, a dog barking. She came out, again.. Like wow? Are you kidding me? I would state what she was wearing, but lets not due to like... never mind. Anywho, she looked to die for, and I mean it wasn’t anything at all. Like its stuff you throw on to sleep with, but man. Wow, she looked just as beautiful as she did on Friday at the Hollywood Bowl, if not better since...no comment...NEVERMIND!... Just made me want to rush my damn plan I have. What’s the plan? No friggin comment. I am still working on it, and I think maybe by the end of the year? If not? I got a couple years, cough cough...

Chatted a little, gave her my Mickey balloons. Chatted a little more and then left. As I was driving home, I was thinking, dude she hates Starbucks. She called when I got home, and yeah changed it to Coffee Bean. I would have loved to talk to her until we both fell asleep like we used to always do, but we really cant have everything repeat like it did last summer. At this point, it was like 330. She had to get up to get ready and leave to UCR by 630ish. I hit the sack at 3:30 but I know I didn’t sleep until pass 4.

Dude I set my alarm at 5:30, woke up. First thought? It’s too early for this shit. Put some clothes on and sprayed my Versace cologne, and it was way too early to smell that. It was sooo strong!! My senses were like getting beat up. She came around 6:15, went to the Coffee Bean. Got stuff and chatted a little, well not really. We kept repeating it’s too early for this and we were dead tired. I wanted to see what she was talking about my post, ehh some other time. The things I do for her.. It’s ridiculous, and still nothing.. Nothing at all…

Got home, and soooo went to sleep. This is my day to rest and catch up on some sleep... Long friday, long weekend in store.....!!! :)

For every action, there is an equal or greater reaction.

Posted by Anh at 5:55 PM | Comments (0)

July 11, 2005

"She's No You" so "Come to Me" because you have a "Beautiful Soul"

Jesse McCartney Concert
The Gibson Amplitheatre
July 10th, 2005

Finally, the day has come when I get the chance to see Jesse McCartney live after I came across his CD a few months back. I hella like this, love this CD and have an appreciation for his album and even his TV show "Summerland." Sadly it was been canceled, and now I wont get a chance to be in awe of Taylor Cole every week. Oh well! I’m still happy from seeing her at the Ryan Cabrera concert... She is really stunning...

I missed Jesse at the Hollister Lounge 22 thingy concert in Newport in March I think, and missed him at Your Show 6 in San Diego in May. I had a little problem going to this show, however things worked out like I usually have it do and I ended up getting 4 tickets.

The day after Sondheim's, I was feeling this anxiety. This kind of anxiety is something I am not a big fan of. Like my chest was feeling all weird and I guess I would have to be honest, it felt that my heart was aching. It totally sucks... I think all Saturday; I took about 5 naps to get my mind off things and not to feel it. But when I wake up, the very second I wake up, it was there again. It all rushed back in full force. Like when I was napping, my mind, body, and soul had it all in reserve when I was unconscious, but when I wake up. It hit me, like a friggin big rig. Felt like it all wanted to make me pay trying to get rid of it, and wanted to punish me. Oh and that it did... Trust me...

Am I still feeling this way? Nope not anymore. How did I get rid of this agony feeling? By expressing my thoughts and feelings. I tried to confide into someone, which to be honest didn’t work at all. She was saying all the wrong things, well things I felt wasn’t right. I didn’t care that she didn’t help; she’s not really a fixture in my life. That made me not even care that I told her.

Who did it for me? Jasmine. The person I was referring to, sister. Like I totally told her things, that I’ve never shared with anyone before. I mean it was sooo therapeutic. I learned things, and got so much out that I didn’t know I could. I needed to hear things that I haven’t heard, and needed to hear. I got input from someone who has first hand experience and witnessed it all from day one. Instead of hearing my friends biting off an ear from what i’ve commentate for them. Which of course is one sided. I’m sure you guys love how I get off on tangents. Bottom-line? I don’t have that feeling anymore for now, and I can get through my day without that anxiety. Back to MR. JESSE MCCARTNEY.

Arrived to the Universal Citywalk, and the person I was with, already had to start being dumb. How? She saw a car saying like, follow us to the Jesse McCartney concert. That sort of stuff you saw for N'Sync, things you saw the crazy fans did on MTV. She was acting hella immature. There’s more to come, but I talk about it later.

I decided to bring my camera in, which they were locking down like hella on the entrance. However this is the Gibson, so they don’t do metal detectors much. I just put my camera behind my belt buckle in my pants. Even if make me walk through the detectors or have the wand search me, I have a huge metal buckle on.

Got into the theatre, and of course more annoying comments, laughs, and mocking. Found out seats, Lodge 19, Row P, Seat 9, 10, 11, and 12. Were they good? Not really. I am a little too used to being really close. So after hearing more of my date's comments, I just saw there quietly with no expression at all. She finally got the hint and shut up.

Some chick named Monet opening up for Jesse. As expected, the audience didn’t really respect that idea. She had a pretty long set, about 30 mins, with about 6 songs. I would have enjoyed her if I could see how hot she was, however my only good view were on the projection screens. I decided after she was done, I was going to move my way on down.

Made my way down towards down the orchestra and ended up at the entrance to the backstage. I wanted to see if the person who was helping me out at the George Lopez show, can help me out today. I couldn’t find him anywhere, but saw a little row of seats open. Went to sit there besides 2 girls who looked about 16. Talked to him for a few, I noticed the door man to the backstage looked familiar. Went up and talked to him, I guess I saw him at the Vans Warped Tour.

I ended up chatting with him until the concert started which was pretty chill. Besides the fact that some little girl was trying to get backstage, she was all crying and saying she was Jesse number 1 fan since she was 9. I kind of thought it was sad yet funny. Every time someone came out of the doors, she was jump in front of them and asks YOU MET JESSE?? OMG HOW DID YOU DO THAT? It was quite humorous.
I noticed press people were coming out of that room, I was like. Dude I wished I was back there just to check it out! It was all good though. I was at the concert, and I was pretty cool with that already.

The concert eventually started, i found seats down in the orchestra. I don’t remember what songs he sang or which was first. I know he didn’t sing "Come to Me" and "Why Is Love so Hard to Find." However, the other songs, "Take Your Sweet Time" and "Without U" were great. Jasmine's song "Why Don’t you Kiss Her" was sweet but I kind of didn’t want to hear the song, for reason I do not want to get into.
Wow, it was loud in there. About 4000 girls screaming their heads off. That Mr. McCartney was pretty sexually provocative, with his Elvis-sque gyrations. Nonetheless, the pre teen and teen gals digged it.

All through the concert I was taking pictures, but it looked like someone on his tour team was walking around, telling people no cameras. It was weird; they were sooo strict about it. I still shot away and even recorded about one and half minutes of "Beautiful Soul." Which you can check out below.

The concert wasn’t too long since has only has one album out. He did sing "Best Day of My Life" a track off the movie soundtrack, A Cinderella Story with Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray.

I'd say the concert ended about 9:45. It was amazing how everyone rushed into the backstage. There were so many people going there who were allowed to be back there. I just said peace out to the homie, and left. I would however much rather have either Casey or Jasmine there, since they would have enjoyed as much as I did. Oh, I guess persistent pays off. That chick who was crying all over the place before Jesse got on stage. She ended up getting a pass back there, and it was brand new. Haha... so funny...

I don’t want another pretty face; I want you and your beautiful soul.

Posted by Anh at 1:53 PM | Comments (1)

The Interview and encounter with Josh Groban!!!!!

Josh Groban Interview
Stephen Sondheims 75th Celebration
Hollywood Bowl, CA
July 8th, 2005
7:01 PM

When i was told i had a photo pass to this event. I figured i had a chance to at least talk to Josh. However, i wasnt expecting to interview anyone let alone Josh. Plus this was my first time covering the Bowl's backstage. I wasnt too sure what to expect while i was back there.

Josh came out of his car but i didnt notice at all. I saw him with a talk fella which i figured was his Brian Avent, his manager. I wasnt 100 percent sure at all. He was waiting next to the Hollywood Bowl backdrop talking to people. At this time, Anne Hatheway was doing the photo opts. Sabrina, the Hollywood Bowl publicist/press person, was introducing the celebrites to us and what not. Bless her heart, she is sooo sweet! So very so kind! Josh came out and did his thing. Sabrina thought he could have done a photo opt with Anne, however she was on the phone.

As i am standing there waiting for the next person to be photograph. I look over Em's way and trying to gauge her reaction. I can tell she was excited, and she had this smile. Which is to die for is my Kryptonite. So i see someone interview Josh, in my head i was like, dude im going to interview him so that i can that i have met him and talked to him. Heres, the thing, im not one to be starstruck at all or anything else. However i am so into this guy's music and a person himself.

I went up to Sabrina and asked her if i can interview Josh. She asked me my name and who i was with. She then reiteriated it to Brian. Brian came up and introduce him to me and i introduced myself to him. We chatted a little bit, and he was soo friendly and warm. I usually deal with publicist, which arent always that nice. In this case Sabrina and Brian were the mock publicists. Brian gave me a comment about how i was dressed, "Looking Snappy" he said, i told him, "I try." He came back and said "Its nice, i like it, it works."

While i am standing there, small chatting with Brian and looking at Josh being interview. I am in my own little place in my head. I feel like i begin to just sucked into this hole, its really weird. Like its that place where say your parents are telling you that you did something wrong, and you space out and their mouth is hypotizing you. I just felt like i was just, maybe i was floating? I dont know. I say i was in La-la land...

Before Josh finsihed his interview, i call Emeline to come over. I wanted her to stand with me while i interviewed him, and i knew she wanted a picture with him. So its easier for her to be there, plus she can be in his space an what not and hear him talk. If anyone tried to say anything, anything such as she couldnt stand there. I would have gotten crazy and said whats up. Good thing no one did.

Josh came over, him in his traditional black suit with black tie. I would have guessed it was Gucci, or maybe even Armani. I introduced myself to Josh and shook his hand, and then introduce him to Emeline and the interview proceeded....

Anh Nguyen: So you performed at Live 8, how was that?

Josh Groban: So much fun! What a day for everybody.

AN: Who there were you just in awe of?

JG: You know.. It was just a great lineup with great artists. I mean I love many of the artists that were on that show. For me, I was just in awe being able to stand on stage with Sarah McLachlan. I mean I am a huge fan of hers, I always have been. I always wanted to sing with her. So it was a great honor for me.

AN: Tonight, I know you told me before. What are you doing to tonight?

JG: I am doing "Move On" from Sunday in the Park with George with Barbara Cook. And I am doing "Johanna" from Sweeney Todd.

AN: I heard that you were going into the studio to record a third album?

JG: Yes, very shortly.

AN: What type of sound are you going about this time??

JG: I like to make it more eclectic. I love rhythm, I love playing the drums. I love writing on the last album, and writing with the piano. I hope to work with a lot of different writers and producers. And do something that would incorporate a lot of world music, as well as a classical sound.

AN: Are going to go back into the studio with David Foster?

JG: Properly so, oh, definitely so.

AN: Have you heard about his show? [Princes of Malibu Fox Sundays at 8:30]

JG: Yeah!

AN: Have you had a chance to watch it yet?

JG: I haven’t seen it yet..

AN: Do you plan to?

JG: Yeah, it should be funny. I hear it's funny. So you know?

AN: You are going to be doing Tanglewood this year correct? Are you looking forward to that?

JG: Very much so. I did it two years ago with John Williams and we’re going to do it again this year. And it’s just like the Bowl, its one of those special venues that’s just great to go hear music. It’s great to be off the road and I can play a venue like that.

AN: And its just going to be you and John??

JG: Just me and John. And the Boston Pops of course.

AN: Of course the Boston Pops. Is their a set list already planned?

JG: Its going to be film music.

AN: Songs John conducted?

JG: He’s going to be doing a whole bunch of music, of movies he’s done. I’m going to be doing a couple songs of movies I’ve sung for. And then couple of songs from old movies that need to be redone again.

AN: Such as..?

JG: Such as “Smile”…. and “[Our] Love Affair” from An Affair to Remember. Ok, you know? A couple other things I want to do.

AN: Word on the street is that you’re dating January Jones. Is she here tonight at all?

JG: Word on the street? Well we’ve been together for two years now, and she's in her hometown in South Dakota right now. She’s going to a wedding. She couldn’t be here tonight.

AN: Well, thank you very much Josh.

JG: You got it.

I wished i was more prepared for this interview. Well i mean i wished i had notes down so i can refer back to certain topics. Topics such as Opening Night, movies, languages he wants to sing on the next album and things like that. I was just esatic finally meeting him, and talking to him. I had to include my personality into the interview, such as terms and things i would say. I wasnt too sure how well Josh responded when i said, "Word on the Street." I was just trying to carry on the interview and figure out questions before he answered the next.

After it was done, i asked him for a photo with him and Emeline. He was very much into it, i think it was due to something Emeline noticed, but we arent going go there. Lets say they had a "moment." I would include a picture of them together but i gotta respect her privacy.

I sorta thought this night was kinda funny and ironic. I introduced Em to Josh Groban's music less than a year ago, actually it would be pretty much a year ago. And tonight i introduced her to him. Sometimes i wonder what the heck goes through my head when it has to do with anything with her. I really dont know, its funny we havent spoke to her for 6 months and havent hung out in the same amount of time. And our first date again, she meets Josh, talks to him, and takes a picture with him. I have this feeling that last summer is going repeat itself again, and we both know how thats going to go down. I guess all i can say for now, and only me and her can understand. It's summer....

Look out Josh here I come again, Tanglewood ho!

Posted by Anh at 1:52 PM | Comments (0)

The Greatest Musical Theatre Song Writer Tribute..

Stephen's Sondheim's 75th Celebration
The Hollywood Bowl
July 8th, 2005

So the second event at the Hollywood Bowl that included Josh Groban on my agenda. Opening Night was great, even though he was out for only one song. It was amazing!

Before i go on, for those who doesnt know who Mr. Sondheim is. He wrote music and lyrics for some of the most well known musicals ever! Among them; West Side Story,Sweeney Todd, The Frogs, and Marry Me A Little. A genius in his own right and his industry. Very influencal in popular culture today, even though unnoticable.

I wasnt even sure that i was going to be here. The press credentials request were submitted and havent heard anything Thursday. I already had the person i was suppose to go with and what not. My Josh buddy. But the tickets werent definite and i told her that she should just go do something else and leave her day open. Conversation was pretty brief and such, but i felt kinda weird. Like all these thoughts and such came, but i dont want to talk about it. All i gotta say is that i felt that last year is just going to repeat itself again and i dont know. My head is all over the place. I wasnt even too sure i should even take her if i got the tickets or ended up purchasing them. Back to the matter at hand!

I received notice that i had 2 tickets and a photo pass around 1:00PM day of. I was so happy, because i was going to pretty much just buy the ticket for myself and attend it alone, or fine someone who wanted to go under the circumstances that presented itself. Circumstances i care not to discuss. So, once i heard photo pass, i knew i was going to meet most of everyone involved. The photo pass gave me access to backstage area where the artist are held at and where there dressing rooms were. I assumed i was going to talk and meet Josh, at this point i informed my initial person i was going to take and whatever i was feeling the night before. I just let it go because i was too excited.

Headed over to the Bowl around 4:30 because i wanted to get there early since i was late for Opening Night. I say we got to the general area of the Bowl around 6ish. The 101 is always killer and there was this slow stupid Van in the carpool lane that added about 25 mins to the whole trip.

Pulled up to the parking lot thing, and i figured i was on the press list for parking, which i was. However they told me to go down to the Odin lot which was back down the entrance on the other side. Drove down there, and went up to see where i was suppose to park. They didnt know anything about it saying why i came down there. I friggin explain it like 10 times. Of course they were obliged to pass us off back to where we started. Hey not a problem, but i wasnt going to drive back out and turn around. Hell know. So they blocked off the streets for us to go, and it was funny. We were just joking that we were special people. It would have worked a lot nicer if i wasnt in a friggin Camry, let alone a dirty one. But hey, people were like wait whos that, they are they stopping traffic... haha..

Re-entered, and they gave us the same BS they gave us before, but this time we were referred to Teddie. He wasnt even there, which was convenient. I wasnt going to deal with it much, so the parking attendances said screw it and i just parked. I needed for my parking for early exit because i didnt know what time this ended and i needed to meet up Manny at Azul in Alhambra for my Jesse McCartney tickets. Thats going to be a other post.

We had to hike up to the West Box Office because thats where my tickets were. Also thats were valet is, the artist entrance and parking, and the Hollywood Bowl's red carpet type thing. The hike wasnt as bad as i thought. Last time, man it was horrible, but it was all good. We had to take our times because of her shoes. Oh,i wanted her to wear a skirt, dont know why. Thought it would look nice on her, but whatever she was wearing, which was black dress pants, and this silverish blousey thing. She looked amazing and gorgeous, but thats never any surprise. It was really nice to see and be around after that 6 months hiatus. Oh, im just rambling. Totally off subject.

Speaking of clothes, like i decided to wear a black suit' black dress pants, black blazer, white shirt, black tie and black Converse aka Chucks. I had my tie like loose and messy and yeah. I thought i looked nice, and i was getting compliments and such. They dont really expect press members to dress nice in my experiences. However i was at the Hollywood Bowl and like i had to keep up with Emeline. Which is kinda hard. I got a comment about my eyes. Why? I usually wear blue contacts, so i was going to respond saying that it cost me blah blah blah. But i kept my mouth shut and didnt say anything. I would rather wore my Versace rims, couldnt, dont want it pushing up against the camera.

Received our tickets and photo pass. Checked out the seats, sec K2, Row 2, seat 108 and 109. Wasnt sure how they compared to my Opening Night seats at the moment.

Headed over to the photo pit and just hung out. Wasnt too many photographers, just about a hand full of 6. We just hung around and just waited for the participants of the show to jump out of their rides and wondered who was going to do the photo opts. Saw Angela Landsbery pop out of her car. Funny thing, people were straight on what the rules were. The Valet manager made Em go to the other side because she was getting in the way of the valet drivers. However when i asked if she could stand with me inside the pit, he said it was allowed. I was bouncing back and forth from the photo pit to where she was standing to give her some company. The publicity coordinators were on peoples butts to make sure they didnt take photos out of the designated area. Which was pretty much just the photo pit and carpet type area and anything away from that was forbidden. Whats even funny is that someone said that she could have stood by me, and blah blah. Left hand doesnt know what the right hand is doing is that i say.

Stephanie D'Abruzzo was first to come out in her lime green dress. Adam Wylie and girlfriend Megan Smith appeared together. Anne Hathaway, miss Emma Enchanted and Princess Daries herself, looked rather malnurnished, compared to her appearances in her movies. Carrying a Chanel bag that kinda looked like a magic 8 ball. Jason Alexander, Shallow Hals tail weidling buddy and Mr. Producer posed for photos. He gave me a comment that i was the only one with a regular camera there. Which trust me, if a camera that cost 1500 dollars, a regular camera. Then by gosh, Jason you are right!

Others who walked the "carpet" Bernadette Peters, Audra McDonald, Len Cariou, Jubliant Sykes, Vanessa Williams, James Barbour Marin Mazzie and husband Jason Danieley. However, who was i there for? Josh Groban. I recieved a photo list of who was going to do photo opts and who wasnt. Josh Groban was on the list of celebrities who wasnt among Barbara Sreisand, Warren Betty, Eric McKormack, Carol Burnett, and Angela Lansbury. However i was told by a press/media handler that Josh was going to be out to do photos, which i was totally relieved.

He came out, took photos. I asked him what he was performing."Move On" with Barbara Cook, and a Sweeney Todd number. After the photo session was done. I saw him do an interview with a gentlemen. I then asked to do one and was allowed. I missed taking photos of Vanessa Willams, but it was worth it talking to Josh. Ill have full details in the next post.

That was pretty much it, so we headed to our seats. The entrance we came through, had all these goramet foods. Me and Em had this joke between us about something. Something about the entrances and the people, however still no comment. Cant talk about it here, it would so make us look bad, but whatever.

Got to our seats which was pretty decent and a lot better than my Opening Night tickets. I had an opposite view this time and it was nice. Im not going to comment about the chick who was sitting in front of us, but yeah. Of course, like always, we get sat by someone hella annoying. This time? Some dude behind us who like cheered loud and hella ANNOYING!! Like was Xena Warrior Princess or something. It was like a tone deaf deep voice war cry. What i totally didnt calculate in is that, this was a tribute to a man who wrote lyrics and music for musical theatre. If you ever watched Will and Grace, musicals kinda infer a little girly side. And yes, there was lots of them out. All through the night this guy, kept doing his annoying cheer. I was like, give me a break please!!

What More Do I Need?/Opening Doors Medley with Anne Hathaway was amazing. She has a great voice and Eric McCormack humor is apparent through his singing. I would love to go through every single performance but it would make this post way too long! The Desperate Housewives tribute was hilarous, i love that show.

Barbara Cook and Josh Groban duet of Move On, was haunting yet breath taking. I loved the Tonight number from Westside Story. I cant believed i watched this musical in middle school and remember it so.

Sweeney Todd Suite with everyone including Josh was fun to watch. A Little Priest from Sweeney Todd performed by Angela Lansbury and Len Cariou was another funny performance. Elaine Stritch of Broadway Baby was hella adorable. Getting Married Today performed by Eric McCorkmack, Marin Mazzie, and Carol Burnett was a great ensemble.

After the Tonight, it was intermission. The program looked like it was going to take awhile for the night finish. At intermission, it was only 930. We decided to walk around the bowl like in random places and look for Loni. Loni, we met her at the Greek taping and gave her our seats in row A after i recieved Pit tickets. When i was in New York on vacation and to attend One Nite with Lite. I hung out with her and she hooked it up with a stay in her hotel for my second night there. I knew she was here the night before Opening Night and leaving the day after Sondheims. Heres the thing, i didnt have her number in my new phone and this place seats 17500 people. I figured she got good seats and checked the garden, terrace, and poolside seats. We would walk down as far as we can and just by pass the ushers and what not. It was pretty fun just walking around. I mean i was dressed pretty nice and so was she. So why dress nice if no one sees? I say a funny, however expect things were happening while walking up and down the walk ways. It was kinda actually cool. Yes, i know cryptic, but this is my blog. Only i have to understand. :P

Barbra Streisand made a rare public appearance and even more rare performance of "Happy Birthday" when she presented a gift from ASCAP to Sondheim himself. After, Sondheim presents a group of high school kids to perform, showcasing his "Children Will Listen" music program.

Everyone then came out to take bows, Angela Landsbery unforunate took a spill, but the crowd was cheering once she got up.

The night was really amazing, amazing encounter with Josh, amazing venue, amazing show, and amazing person to be with. As i thoguht about it, i wished i asked Josh Groban questions about what movies he will be doing, his reaction to Opening Night, among other things. But thats what happens when its spur of the moment. You have to be on your toes.. Hopefully i will have a chance at Tanglewood if i dont pass up the MTV Video Music Awards the very next day..

Afterwards, met up with Manny to get my tickets to my next event... Jesse McCartney concert. Wanted to club but yeah. Instead had a late dinner, at my fav. tofu house.

Now hear my confession....

Posted by Anh at 1:50 PM | Comments (0)

July 10, 2005

effin Warped OUT!!!

Vans Warped Tour
Pomona Fairplex
July 6th, 2005

Last week, i was a black dude who loves Rap, R&B, and Hip Hop at the BET Awards. This day i am a trendy punk pop white dude at the Vans Warped Tour.

Head over there around 11:30. Well got in proximity of the Fairplex, however it took friggin 2 hours to get into the parking lot and park. It was so ridiculous. The only good thing is that i didnt have to drive and there was lots of eye candy walking by.

When we finally park we head over to will call, get my 2 tickets, press and photo pass. Got in, and walked to the press area to check it out. Walked by the cater area with all this food on the Bar-B. Checked into the press desk. Pretty much all the interviews i requested i received. Rufio, Thrice, Fall Out Boy, Underoath, and others.

Right off the bat i was in an interview with Rufio. Well sidenote, i was trying to get Kathy to come with me. But i was kinda working and i would have had to ditched her here and there. So i didnt think it would have been cool, and plus she wouldnt have made it through the traffic. I mean she would have but it would have been a pain and didnt want her in that.

Anywho, sat down with the guys of Rufio. I wanted to finally meet what the big deal was with these guys. I mean they came from Rancho and pretty big here, but i mean ok? Yeah know? Then again i dont get really phased at that sort of stuff. I would say this would have been on the spot interview for sure. I just asked various questions, it was really brief. I mean, i did the interviews to meet them and get an idea of what the guys are all about. However the reason why i was there was to check out the band and take photos.

I was sporting my tight Beatles Let It Be shirt. I got lots of. "Nice Shirt," and "I Like that Shirt." Shoot, screw the bands that was there. Its all about the orginal rock and rollers.

First one band on the agenda, My Chemical Romance. It was all the way at the Bishop Stage which was on one end of the grounds. Rolled up to the pit area and snapped a few shots. The lead singer is a lot more what you would say chubber than you would think, watchin their latest video, "Helena." I guess its the make up in the video since Gerard has all this make up on. My peeve, why do chicks do the crowd surfing? Their butts will be crewed out and and spit out! All the dude will take that advantage to rub, groupe, and pretty much do anything while their helpless bodies are passing by.

Before i reached the stage, i get a call from the press area telling me Underoath was waiting to be interviewed by me. I wanted to interviwed them, but i had to review the show. After Chemical Romance, i went back and told them that they should cancel my interviews since my priority was photos and the bands. Felicia, the chick who was helping me, who loooked really familar, was nice. While i was there, i was trying to plan out who i was going to see, and if i could fit in interviews.

Hit up Stephanie to see where she was at, and she was at the Bishop area thingy. I had to head back there to take photos of Thrice. After that i had to run to the other side of the place to the Mike stage, to see Transplants. I wanted to check out their sound and see whats crackin with Travis Barker. It sucked that they didnt do interviews, a lot of the bigger names didnt do any. What was kinda sick, Travis was spitting but it hit the stage, and the lead singer from the band was spitting in the crowd. I was like wow, i guess maybe some fan would have been happy to be spat on? Perhaps? Their sound is pretty hard, harder than i thought it would have been.

Headed back to the press area to check out times. I was asked to interview Thrice since no one showed up. I figured ill give them a brief interview. Looked like the only person that was availble was Eddie. Asked a few questions about the next record, Warped Tour, and Tom and Katie. IM SORRY!! I had to! After it was done, i had him leave a message on Stephanie's phone since she likes them and such.

Back to the Bishop stage again to see Reliant K. I havent heard much about these guys, however i heard few of their songs and i like it. Their video "Be My Escape" is really cool. When they hit the stage and performed, the whole crowd was a lot louder than the band and it was cool. I really like the songs, and the reaction from the fans was impressive.

The Offspring... wasnt really into it, but there wasnt anyone else i wanted to see at that time. They were a little late getting on the stage and people were volleying bottles. It was pretty cool sight, this one chick upfront got hit so many times, and this retarded guy threw a semi empty can of soda and it moved like 1 foot and hit the group in front of him. People are so dense, i swear. Did my photo thing, im not sure if it was for Offspring or Transplants, but one chick like busted open her head and was bleeding all the way down her face and neck. Jeezesh!

Billy Idol, the OG Punk rocker! Been rocking for 26 years and still going and not missing any beat. I think he was the only artist that threw out water to the crowd. Hella good guy. Looked like Monster Energy drinks was sponsering the show since every damn band had a few chillin. Mr Idol was giving me some hella good shots. As you can see. I stuck around until he finished, this dude said i was looking tired and i feel a little tired but i guess i dont know how until someone tells me. Of course he was jocking my lens. I love my 70-200mm 2.8 telephoto lens. I cant say it enough!

Bands i missed? Hawthrone Heights. It was Kim band she wanted to see, but i totally didnt even know that ive heard of them and even heard their entire cd. MY HEART IS IN OHIO!!!! Underoath.. They were right on before Rufio and i didnt plan it right, but when i got to the stage Rufio was playing, it was hella crowded and it sounded hella cool. I asked someone, and they said it was Underoath.. so pissed. After the Offspring, i was told Avent Sevenfold puts on a good show, but i had to get to resting somewhere or i would have died. I gave up Fall Out Boy, to see Rufio. Times were just conflicting a little too much.

Headed over to the Hurley Stage to see Rufio. I was like the only photographer there for awhile. So i just sat around, i would say whats up to Clark and Scott here and there. Shot my pictures. After the 3rd song, i had to leave the pit. Of course the 4th song had to be a song i knew, "In My Eye." Stuck around for a little bit and headed home. All and all it was fun, but very hella tiring.

Got dinner at Johnny Rockets. Trying to wind down, but i was so out of it.

Pop Punk!!! YEAHeeRR!!!

Posted by Anh at 12:35 AM | Comments (0)

July 4, 2005

BET Awards... Drop it like its HOTT!!

The BET Awards
Kodak Theatre
June 28th, 2005

The day is here. I had to be down in Hollywood at 1 for the Press Check in. The check in for the red carpet that i was not approved to be on but with some social engineering. If you dont know anything about that, read Kevin Mitnick's Art of Deception.

I am missing a day out at the beach, i was planning to go down back to LA at 4ish because the show doest start until 5, but the red carpet and yeah. Got down to LA Weekly again at 12ish to meet up with my friend. I took Sunset to get there because they closed down Hollywood Blvd, good luck getting through there with out a limo.

This red carpet was pretty huge. It spanned from what i saw was Highland until Orange. However it could have went down to Fairfax, so a security guard said.

Not to be racist, but we didnt even get checked in until 1:30ish, i dont recall because i wasnt even paying attention. Saw Fernando from the New York post there. I covered Powerhouse with him. Its funny how you meet random people at these things and see them down the line. He was holding this huge lens, it was crazy and i think he said the price of that thing was 70,000 dollars. Damn!! But im sure the New York Post doest settle for any less. However, the chick who he was with, thought she was hot shit. Im too good, i dont wait in line, i know people blah blah blah. Sorry sweetie you aint hot or anything close to it, get over it and wait. Im just glad she eventually left.

So finally, they were checking people in. The thing is, it wasnt check in at all. It was just telling us where we stand on the carpet. I mean they have it all labeled on the carpet.

I knew that since we werent approved to be on the carpet, that we wouldnt have a spot and it would have been a minor problem. Which indeed it was, they made us stand to the side while people were getting placed. While i was standing there, i was pretty surprised to see Manny. Manny Guevara, Manny on the Streets for 102.7 KIIS FM On Air with Ryan Seacrest. The next friggin music star. haha. I guess he was covering the carpet too, however he didnt have a spot or anything. Earlier there was this cameragirl who showed up, who looked exhausted and what not. Wasnt too sure what was going on. Eventually we helped her out and she got a spot on the carpet. Thing is, she was approved for 4 people on the carpet, and she was like come with me. Shoot ill come with you... cough cough.. just kidding guys!!! kinda..?

After thinking about it for awhile, we had "Z" on our badges. The security wasnt going to trip on us. I mean i figured that they might have tripped if we didnt have an escort. See, they were having volunteers escort the press to their spots. We just walked, me, my homie and Manny just walked, flashed the badges, and went on our merry way. Theres something empowering walking a red carpet like you own it, and getting your way. I love it!!

We buddied up with the gal at CBS but there was no space and lots of camera people there. KTLA, FOX, the usual outlets. I mean Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, and Extra were there also, but they usually get the better spots up front with no one around them up on mini stages. Me and Manny headed down to the radio spot and he found his spot. I pretty much chilled with him because i need to do interviews, which i discovered was hard while holding my camera and my ipod with a mic on it. I ended up walking the red carpet a little but up and down, which is always fun. I saw the photo pit and which where i belonged, however i just stayed with the radio people and got my shots there.

I not sure what time arrivals actually started but at least they did happen. Flava Flav showed up with all his kids. I dont remember but of the red carpet, but you can see who was on it by the pictures. Will's kid was chillin al up on it, James Avery aka Uncle Phil on Fresh Prince walked it, and even a former Destiny's Child, the orginal was there. Lotta hot black ladies!

Tightest rides that rolled up? TI showed up in what looked like a rented Ferrari, i totally missed the shot. The Game rolled up with his kid, and lady friend in a West Coast low rider. Marques Houston and Christopher Stokes rolled up in them tight BMW boxy looking cars. I looked right at Marques and was like rolling down your window. I signaled and everything with my hand, like roll down the window. But MH had to be a gangsta and not roll it down. I took the picture anyways.

It was getting close to 5 when the show started and nobody else really walked the carpet and did the press line. So me and Manny decided to roll up to the Media Room. Of course it wasnt open yet, even though they said it opened at 4.

Looked like they had photographers and media separate, but i was able to bounce back and forth since i had a general press pass. Man i was hella hungry and they didnt have dinner until like 2 hours later. It was all catered and such. I was bouncing back and forth from room to room to get pictures because one room was strictly press conference style type stuff and the other room was photo opts. With winners holding their award. I was running back and forth and it was soo exhausting. I got pretty friendly with the door security guards and such. Victor and Rico, after awhile i didnt have to flash my press badge. See i mean i love these events, but i love meeting people. More and more i am introducing myself to people and trying to remember names. Honestly, if i have myself adhere to someones mind, and its a good impression, then i accomplished what i set out for the day. Its just someone i am really into now. Which is kinda hard if i cant remember names.

As far as i know, i missed only 2 photo opts, and they were Garbielle Union and Vida Guerra. Garbielle is hella fine from Bad Boys II among other things. Vida Guerra, well she has been featured on FHM many times. I didnt even know i was walking by her, all i knew there was a fione chick in i think a teal dress with a ass like WHOA!! and a chest that could make anyone salute! It did kinda look she wasnt wearing underwear. I mean i was close! I didnt know it was her because her face was very cute, but when ive seen her in FHM, its not all that. But man, i wish i got some close of that! WHOA!

After taking pictures of certain people, they would walk pass me and i would say thank you and such. Marques Houston who walked by, i said thanks and gave him the brother hug. Do you guys know what a brother hug is? If not, its the hug guys do without apearring a little too homo. So after i gave it to him, i was like next time roll down your window. He started laughing and said alright.

Chatted with Mike Jones' Swishahouse crew. One dude had this chalice with all these diamonds and even the straw had diamonds and such. It was pretty crazy. I gave him props and Mike Jones came down the stage and he gave me a hella tight picture. I went out to the hall and my homie wanted to take a picture with him. I went up to the dude who i said whats up to and asked. I then went up to Mike Jones and he was hella cool with it. I love being whatevers around celebrities and such.

Pretty much the night was over after the awards. I missed like the whole entire show. We wanted to check out the after parties and the only one we heard of was the one at the Highlands that BET was putting on. They were being so strict that you needed a ticket and such. They turned away even Jadakiss and Vivica A Fox. Allen Iverson came up with a huge entourage. Fatty Koo was also chill and i said whats up to Eddie B and did the homie shake. Of course, Chris Lane, some crazy dude from Beautyshop. He is like hella esentric and was wearing stuff hella wild. Said whats up to him and what not. Had a mini conversation which made it seemed like we knew each other.

We hit up Marleen, to see if she can get us into a party. However she was with Brooke and she was doing a wardrobe change and what not. So we waited for a little to see if she would get back to us. But man, we were dead tired. Headed back to LA Weekly and from there pretty much left. There were mad parties just driving down Hollywood Blvd. I wanted to jump out of my car and take some photos and go clubbing. Its all good though, all in a days work.

Read my REVIEW

Read the LA WEEKLY review featuring my PHOTO!

Its all coming together....:)

Posted by Anh at 9:56 AM | Comments (0)

July 1, 2005

BET Awards Day 1! Media Day!

Bet Awards Media Day
Renaissance Hotel
June 27th, 2005

Today is the day. The day before the Bet Awards. The day the media gets invited out to watch rehearsals and do press interviews and what not.

First, i decided go and have lunch with my dad, since it was on the way. Got down to LA around 11ish and yeah. Dude im so out of shape cuz we walked to Chinatown from the Union Station since its nearby. I was sweating my ass off. Hey, it was friggin hot as heck.

After lunch, headed down to LA Weekly, which was only 15 mins North on the 101. Met up with the homie there who was going to cover Bet Awards with me. Parked in the lot and walked on over to Hollywood and Highland. It was only a block away but man it still hella sucks.

Got up to the complex and saw people waiting in line, mainly African Americans. Walked right into the hotel's lobby and this hotel is hella nice. We had to go up to the second floor to do the whole press check in/registration. Was in line for a good 20 minutes but it wasnt a big deal, however of course there was some annoying person there. He was yelling at everyone who was int eh front telling them not to take cuts and stuff. Annoying i must say.

Get inside the hotel room to get my picture taken and have my badge made. I thought it was pretty high tech because there was this sensor thing they had to scan it with. Later i find out at the press rooms and such they have someone with a tablet pc with a wireless card and they wave it to your badge and your picture shows up. Very very nifty.

Ok, after i get my badge done, i was looking for my friend and for whatever reason he wasnt in the system under me. I then find out that some other dudes name is in the system. However i am the one that talked to the publicist and what not and made sure my name and his name was there. We had to go to another room and figure this out. All they did is take out the other persons name and put him in. Brian, the tech guy asked my friend if we needed "Z". Because right now i had an "M" on my badge, which i assume was Media and press room. I didnt know what the "Z" meant but we took it anyways. See, the thing is that i was approved for Media room when i signed up but not anything else. By the end of the day, we find out "Z" meant red carpet access. Shoot, we werent going to argue with that at all. More is always better!

Headed on down to the press floor which was also the production floor, and publicist floor. Went through the metal detectors and my homie ran into Marleen who is a Virgin Records publicist. We chilled with her, we had to check into the press desk and of course they hook us up with free things. A Bet bag with a shirt, and various other things inside.

Right when i went inside, Mario was on stage and i shot a few shots of him. Then someone went up to me and asked if i was with an organization which i kinda was but i was more freelance than anything. She led me to Ngozi who is an editor for Aspire Magazine which is in circulation in the UK and Africa. She needed a photographer because theirs didnt make it out. I was into it, i didnt care, i want the exposure, however i still wanted a little compension and i felt it wasnt going to happen.

Sidenote: Wow, there was some fine ass black ladies in the house. I was just like man, this is hella nice. Whats funny though is that there was like this lone white chick there, and man i was drawn to her for some reason. Yeah, she was a little older, maybe a lot but whatever. haha..

Various other people came on stage for the press conference style photo opts and interviews. Pretty Ricky, Fat Joe, Bow Wow. At Bow Wow press conference thing, thats where i found out Ciara was his girl. I was like wow, interesting.. Miri Ben Airi, the hip hop violinist. Shes hella talented, if yall saw her on Jay Z final tour thing on HBO. Shes hella tight crazy on the violin. She looks all cute and shit but when she opens her mouth, not so hot.

T.I. and his crew, P$C rolled up. I was suppose to go to the Hustle and Flow afterparty at the House of Blues with them, Lil Jon and Eastside Boys, and Juvenile. Glenn from Atlantic didnt even get back to me. What a punk but that will be resolved tomorrow.

Lil Mo, came out, and man she got hella skinny. She still got them big lips. But shes full of charisma and energy. Christopher Stokes came out with 4 ladies in a new band called Dame. The lens and where i was standing didnt allow me to take the chicks together so i just focused on the cutest one which was the chick in the pink bra. You ll see the pictures somewhere around here.

Paul Wall, Frankie J, Slim Thug, and 112 all came out. It was pretty quiet when these guys were out. 112 kinda went down hill after they left Bad Boy.

Fatty Koo, which rang a bell but i couldnt remember where from. Then someone said something about the Black Eyed Peas, then it was like OH YEAH!. They are on tour with BEP, and imma go see them next month. Josh dressed up a little like Usher. Marya was hella cute, but again when she opened her mouth. Her thick accent from Venezuela came through and kinda killed it for me. Gabrielle, the fair skinned girl from the group. She was fine, i took a few pictures of her. Someone asked them to sing acepella, and wow, they sound hella good. I for sure gotta get to the Greek early to go see him live.

The day pretty much ended at 5. I was in the hall way and saw John Legend walk by about 3 feet away and i called his name and he didnt answer. But those kinda things, when you walking among the greats is so tight!

There was an preparty at the Spider Club, and i wanted to check it out since i never been there. I got me and my homie on the list, at this point he was already back at LA Weekly finishing up some stuff.

I walked out to Hollywood Blvd, and i totally forgot that the War of the Worlds premiere was this day. I could have hit up Soni at Dreamworks and get on the carpet but i wanted to do one thing at a time a day. I also had the Rhythm and Soul Awards at the Beverly Hills Hotel also, but passed on that also.

Headed back to LA Weekly for my car. Left right after, i mean my homie didnt want to hit up the preparty at the Spider Club, so i just left. I knew i was going to hit up traffic but whatever.

Got home at 7, then i hit up the mall to get some pictures done that i took the day of. Hit up Johnny Rockets, not before i hit up Kabuki for some sushi. Me and Jesse closed down Johnny Rockets, just messing around with Danni, Theresa, Tito, the friggin gang. I mean everytime i go there i meet new people everytime. I swear i should really work there, but Emeline works there, and yeah so gotta pass that.

I cant wait until tomorrow, sucks though because i wasnt planning to cover the red carpet, so i didnt have to get there until a little before 5. So i thought i hit up the beach with Jesse and Danni and then head over to Hollywood, but press check in for red carpet coverage was at 1, and they were leaving to the beach at 12. Oh well.. Duty calls!!

Call me a friggin Chameleon cuz i be blending in to my environments! :)

Posted by Anh at 5:25 PM | Comments (7)

Insomnia Tour with Dane Cook and Dave Attell.

The Wiltern LG
June 25th, 2005

Dane Cook.. love this guy. He is one funny dude. You should all get his DVD/CD set thing. Anywho rolled up to the Wiltern hella late. I could have sworned it started at 8 but i guess it started a little earlier.

Got there, got my photopass and was waiting for my tickets but i guess they didnt have it. They just had some wristbands and i guess they were just general standing area in the back. It wasnt a problem because i had to take pictures and it aint no thang.

Hit up, Lennora who was there in charge of the press people. I havent talked to her since i covered the Ryan Cabrera show and heard she was up Powerhouse. We just chatted when we can, during intermission and such. It was nice. She is hella tight!

Couple comedians performed but i was there for Dane Cook. I hope he was going to perform new material because hes been doing the same thing over and over. Dont get me wrong, its hella funny. I just wanted to hear new things which i did.

Left and headed to BCD Tofu House. I love that place and i was kinda hungry. Went there, and gone inside. There was hella nosy ass Koreans standing next to me looking all up on my Sidekick and like put their head in my face to look down at my phone. Then they go off to say something, i swear i was going to say something.

Had some bomb TOFU and such, i love this place and then headed off to Bang. I didnt want to go clubbing cuz i kinda only wanna deal with one this at a time but whatever. Thats all im say about that. Got home around 2 in the morning and thats about it..

Look for Dane Cook's new album and DVD..

Posted by Anh at 11:06 AM | Comments (0)

June 29, 2005

Opening Night at the Bowl baby!!!

Hollywood Bowl
June 24th, 2005

So it was finally here.. Ever since i heard about Opening Night with Joshua Bell and it wasnt official about Josh Groban doing anything with it. But man, yeah.. I wanted to use my press angle, which i been doing a lot lately. I called over there and spoke to Matt, where he told me to send a fax request. So i decided to hit up Russ, and do it right.

Anywho, ended up getting 2 tickets with no photo pass. I really wanted it bad since i purchased a Canon EOS 20D DSLR with a 70/200mm f/2.8 telephoto zoom lens for lets just say over 2500 dollars and thats not with out my bag, memory card, filters, and vertical grip.

Funny thing... i wanted to see if Emeline wanted to go, since Josh was going to be there. Yeah i know, im still talking to her. Surprising isnt it?? She couldnt go, but it was worth a try.

Headed on over to Hollywood and Highland Complex because parking at the Bowl is horrible so i didnt even want to try parking for my first time. I read up on the shuttles so i took it.

Ok so like i am in line for the bus. These old ladies in front of me, who i assume were Grobanites (hardcore Josh Groban fans) were all whining about how CPK had a sign that they will give you free shuttle passes to the Bowl. I mean cmon now, guess how much it was for a round trip there and back. 3 dollars!! cmon now!! you paid front either 30 to 80 bucks for these seats. Get over it!!

Behind us was a pretty group of people and i was like uhh wow ok. However one of them came over and bum a cigarette from my friend. So we just started chatting and what not. She was out taking out the Law school interns from a law firm somewhere in LA. General little chatter here and there, she was Korean, her name was Linda Kim. Of course she had to friggin ask me if i was Korean also. I just said i wasnt. Funny thing, some convo went down and then she was like i graduated high school in 89. 89!! dude i was barely 6 then. So i tried to do the math and she at that moment was 31. Goodness!!

Got off the bus, and wow. So many people all over the place. I had to go to the West Box Office. Dude it was friggin up a hill!!! Only good thing is that it was the backstage area where the artists park and walk into. Did i see anybody?? no because i was kinda late. The opening number which was the theme from Star Trek, however i did see Zachary Provost just chillin. He is Josh Groban's piano guy.

Got to my seats which were a whole lot better than i thought they were. I got a decent view and the sound was amazing!! I mean the Bowl fits 17500. That was soo crazy and there was about 3000 to 5000 in front of me. So yeah..

The night was in honor for Trisha Yearwood, Frank Sinatra, and Joshua Bell. Frank Jr sang a few songs with Quincy Jones conducting the orchestra. I cant say how much the sound is amazing there.

So intermission was right in the middle of it all and you know me. i cant sit in one spot. I then proceed to walk around while everyone else pulls out their picnic baskets and starts chowing down on strawberries and potatoes salad. I then go and walk all the way down as far as i can to find someone i knew that was going to be there. I used my art of persuasion to get as far down as i can while i outwit the ushers to let me go wherever i wanted.

I got pretty far down. About 15 feet from the stage and again it is soo amazing. I proceeded to rub elbows with all the rich white people who could have afforded the 3000 dollar table booth thingys, but it was going to charity so its all good.

After intermission, thats when Josh Groban came out. Well they did a little number for Swan lake. Thats when Josh Groban came out and made everyone laugh and what not and introduced Joshua Bell. He played an amazing number and John Mauceri kept looking back and forth at Josh it was quite humorous. It looks like Mauceri is a great guy and wonderful conductor.

Now for what i was waiting for. After another number by Bell, Josh came out, Groban that is and wearing this pink shirt with his signature blazer. I dont know, but it was wow because the last time that i know of, of Joshua Bell and Josh Groban performing "Mi Mancherai" was in the studio for his current album "Closer" So i got my chills and Josh hasnt been performing, so his voice isnt all strained and it was breathtaking. I also was doing the woooo and screamings, i cant help it and he rules!

Trisha Yearwood was next, seemed like everyone who was there was for her. She sand "How Do I Live" and "Over the Rainbow." It sounded so good. I have nothing much more to say about her because i was waiting for the fireworks.

I dont care what age you are but fireworks ALWAYS make you smile and feel good. If not, it totally applies to me. I didnt know they were going to have a water show but before Trisha finished, they were lighting up like torches atop the bowl. The fireworks was being played along with the theme to "Hawaii" I wish i can describe the fireworks but all i have to say is that it was one of the best displays ive seen in a long time. It just had like pretty colors and amazing effect and yeah..

That ended the night, and i had to make the mad rush to the bus because i mean 17500 people trying to leave at the same time. You will get into some traffic and the parking situation there is just like the Greeks. Stacked. You cant leave if someone behind you and in front of you havent left yet.

Had Johnny Rockets when i got back to Hollywood and Highland. I swear the food tastes so much better in Hollywood. That was pretty much my night, i cant wait to come back for Sonheim's. Hopefully with better seats and a photo pass. If not, seats i can deal with. I am absolutely in love with this venue..

HURRAY FOR HOLLYWOOD!!!

Read my article here

Posted by Anh at 3:03 PM | Comments (0)

June 28, 2005

Ay dios Miyo!!! Senior Lopez.

George Lopez
Gibson Amplitheatre
June 12, 2005

He had like 6 shows back in Decemberish time at the Gibson and they all sold out. I didnt get a contact with the place until recently. So i was approved for a photo pass and 2 tickets.

Ok, i dont have much to say, so imma do a little commentary and input the article i wrote that was published. Thanks!!

Last time i was there was for a Hilary Duff concert. Yes, i know you are saying Hilary Duff? They were free and the homie Manny hooked it up. Plus i wanted to see how good of a performer she is and ive had her cd and listened to it for alittle bit. Anywho!!

Got some pretty good seats down in orchestra. It was a given because its always like that. However, i never shot at the Gibson and i didnt know how it worked. Generally there is someone on your back telling you what and when you can shoot.

I went up to the office, not before i watched a little of Dr. Kim. This korean comedian. Dude it was hella funny, i wished i coudl have seen his full show, but the person i took lagged it. I swear , peopel are soo undependable.

Headed up to the office and see if i needed to meet anyone there. While i was there, i didnt know so many people complained about things. I heard one about you couldnt hear anything in the mezziane, like the speakers werent on or anything. Another was that they were complaing about the people around her. She said she got second to the last row in Mezzaine. I mean duh, do you think people of class and manners sit in shitty seats?? Cmon now, but then again the snobby type will be sitting up front. Heres, the thing that was kinda sad, yet funny. The lady who was complaing about her seat, saying she was sitting in front of a large woman who was pushing against her seat and being loud. She said that she didnt pay 150 bucks not to enjoy the show. WOW, 150 for bad seats, and i was in orchestra about 12 rows from the pit. I always wanna know how much my tickets go for, for each event.

Anywho, i met up with Brian, the media man. He was a really nice guy and they are very unrestrictive about shooting photos. I mean upfront i had about the first 5 mins but at my seat, they werent regulating which is good. Anyways, i am done doing commentary... The following is my wrap up of the show.

Review: Lopez overcomes obstacles, delivers great comedy show

By ANH NGUYEN

"Why you crying?" This phrase may resonate if you watched George Lopez's Comedy Central special of the same name.

However, despite his great ability to make people laugh, Lopez has experienced much sadness in his life, including a painful childhood in which he was abandoned by his mother and father, and his grandmother took him in and raised him.

You would not even know he was living with a genetic kidney disease since birth, which became more of a problem recently.

With his 11th sold-out show at the Gibson Amphitheatre, Lopez was all smiles, running around on stage, doing push-ups.

On April 19, Lopez (whose ABC sitcom "George Lopez" is the longest running show in history with a cast made up of Latinos) checked into Cedar-Sinai Medical Center under the alias of Tom Ace, which was the name of Jim Carrey's character in the "Ace Ventura" movies. Ann Lopez, his wife, made the perfect kidney donor.

His ensuing return to stand-up comedy was terrific, with Lopez touching on subjects including his family, his wife, and the Mexican culture. There was never a dull moment in his show.

Things calmed down for a short time in the middle of his act as Bob Shea, the senior vice president of talent of the House of Blues, came out to honor him with a plaque for selling out the theatre 11 times. This plaque will be hung in the halls at the amphitheatre among with many other greats who have performed there.

The newly-elected mayor of Los Angeles, Antonio Villaraigosa and his wife Corina, showed up to support Lopez. (Villaraigosa's feat was also impressive; he became the first Latino mayor of the City of Angels in more than 100 years.)

Lopez has earned his mark in many aspects of mainstream comedic entertainment. He even has a movie, "The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl in 3-D," that broke into the top five in grosses in its first weekend.

Without kidney disease looming over him, Lopez is free to be creative without having to think about his next step.

What is his next step? He is planning to release another stand-up album, hoping for a Grammy. His sitcom was renewed and is heading into its fifth season, where his kidney transplant will take center stage.

Despite the adversity in his life, Lopez has found the good in everything and now he shares it in a humorous way that everyone can enjoy.

---

Afterwards we hit up Roscoes Chicken and Waffles. The wait is generally more than an hour even late at night and the middle of the week. It was all good though, it only took like 15 mins. The place is not really that big and it figures why there is always a long wait and what not. Of course had the chicken and waffles. I am telling you, it may not seem like a good combination, but its hella good. After it, rolled on home and it was a night.

Check out video of the healthy Lopez

Dont go to someone's show and offend them. Not a good idea

George Lopez
Sunday June 12th, 2005
Gibson Amplitheatre, Univerisal City, CA

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Posted by Anh at 5:08 PM | Comments (0)

This is how we do!! Act a fool up in the Club!

106 Powerhouse/How the West was One
Arrowhead Pond, Anaheim, CA
May 21st

106 Powerhouse.. at the Pond. Which is called How the West was One everywhere else. I had a full day however, i was planning to cover KROQ's Weenie Roast at Irvine, then make it over to a wedding reception in Chino Hills, then off to Powerhouse.

I am glad that the chick at KROQ didnt get back to me in time. i really wanted to check out a few of the bands there but its all good.

Headed over to the Pond after the reception, i was kinda late, and didnt leave until 750 where i was going to leave at 7. I was sporting my black suit with a pink button up with my chucks.

Got there, picked up my photo pass cuz like i didnt get tickets because homegirl at Interscope who got me the passes didnt hear me when i said i needeed tickets. It was all good thought because it was a multiartist thing, so i was there until the very end until Snoop. Usually its the first 2 songs. I could have got tickets with my homie who was also working it but its all good.

Got there and was lead backstage to the photographers holding area which was soooo ghetto. It was just us sitting down and just staring at each other. Bone Thugs and Harmony were performing and we couldnt watch it but its all good..

Yeah.. so pretty much staring at each other. Again here i am with a little point and shoot digital camera while everyelse had these huge cameras. I kinda thought that sucked. Its all good, was planning to get a professional digital camera soon.

When Bone Thugs was done, Busta Rhymes was going on next. We were lead to the photo pit that was all the way in the front. Man there was some freaky chicks there. The stuff they were wearing, i was wow, hook it up!!!

Shot Busta Rhymes, he is still amazing and i didnt even know he was signed to Interscope. It just one of those things, when you into music its like a big deal because it was a big deal to me. He was up there with Lil Scrappy. I made sure i got a hold of some ear plugs because i was standing in front of the speakers. Its amazing to look back and see all the thousands of people. It was a packed house but i dont know how much it fills in. I think about 12000. Man, it made me want to be a performer and just looking at the crazy crowd.

The Game was next, he filled up the stage with what it looked like his entourage. All decked out in Red from head to toe. Red Chucks, Angels Jersey, Red Angel hat, and a red bandana. If you didnt know, The Game was, actually prolly still is a Blood.

When he got up, a group of guys rushed the front wearing purple, with purple bandanas holding up plastic purple grapes. i then was told it was the Grape Gang and what not. They were doing the whole signs and chanting. It was pretty interesting.

After shooting the 2 songs, we were lead back to the holding area however they let us watch from outside the door. Me and this dude said screw it and went all the way to the front were his homies were. Got to enjoy the show some and the chicks. Nate Dogg came on to perform a few songs. The Game was downing some liquer and even got high on stage. Thats how you do it it couldnt help to smell the chronic all through out the arena.

Just as you would expect, The Game was talkig a little head bout 50 Cent. It wasnt too bad, it was pretty tamed. Trust me, if you heard the mixed tapes, man they be talkinh mad head. Game brought out his kid for a song or 2. I really like this rapper, nice beats, but its expected since Dr. Dre produced his album.

So backstage, one of the chick grew up in Upland and we chatted a little about it. It was like 3 really nice white girls, who was running press at a black/rap concert. They were soo not into it. There were fireworks and they were getting freaked out.

Snoop Dogg was last on the bill. They were running about 30 minutes late. Nothing that isnt expected. Yes i know i used a double negative. He has this whole softcore porno show thingy. It was kinda wierd. Then he rolled on out with this blue jumpsuit. If you havent watched Starky and Hutch. Snoop is a lanky hella skinny dude..

After the two songs, we were escorted out and i just left. Wasnt much left to do.

Check out "Westside Story" Live

Cant wait until Anger Management w/ 50 Cent and Eminem.

The Game - Westside Story
Saturday May 21st, 2005
Arrowhead Pond Anaheim, CA

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Posted by Anh at 4:34 PM | Comments (0)

BET Award Nomiees..

So like, im just putting this up so yall can check out who i think is going to win. Ill have pictures up from the awards and media day after i post about Powerhouse with Game and Snoop, George Lopez show at the Gibson, Opening Night at the Bowl, and Dane Cook/Dave Attel at the Wiltern...

BEST FEMALE HIP HOP
1. Miri Ben-Ari
2. Jackie-O
3. Remy Martin
4. Shawnna

BEST MALE HIP HOP
1. 50 Cent 1.
2. Jay-Z
3. Ludacris
4. Snoop Dogg 3.
5. T.I.
6. Kayne West 2.

BEST COLLABORATION
1. Ciara f/Missy Elliott "1, 2 Step"
2. Destiny's Child f/Lil Wayne & T.I. "Soldier"
3. The Game and 50 Cent "Hate It or Love It" 2.
4. Jadakiss f/Anthony Hamilton "Why"
5. Snoop Dogg f/Pharrell "Drop It Like It's Hot"
6. Usher and Alicia Keys "My Boo" 1.

BEST FEMALE R&B wow, this gotta be a hard one
1. Amerie 2.
2. Mariah Carey 1.
3. Ciara 1.
4. Fantasia
5. Alicia Keys 1.
6. Jill Scott

BEST MALE R&B
1. Anthony Hamilton
2. John Legend 2.
3. Mario 2.
4. Prince
5. Usher 1.

BEST GROUP
1. 112
2. Destiny's Child 1.
3. Lil Jon and The Eastside Boys
4. The Roots
5. Terror Squad f/Fat Joe

BEST NEW ARTIST
1. Ciara 2.
2. Fantasia
3. The Game 1.
4. John Legend 2.
5. Omarion

BEST GOSPEL ARTIST
1. Fred Hammond
2. Donnie McClurkin
3. Ruben Studdard
4. CeCe Winans
5. Kanye West 1.

VIDEO OF THE YEAR (SONG TITLE)
1. Amerie "1 Thing"
2. Jay-Z "99 Problems"
3. John Legend "Ordinary People"
4. Snoop Dogg f/Pharrel "Drop It Like It's Hot" 1.
5. Kanye West "Jesus Walks" 2.

BEST ACTRESS
1. Halle Berry 1.
2. Kimberly Elise
3. Regina King
4. Queen Latifah
5. Gabrielle Union

BEST ACTOR
1. Don Cheadle 2.
2. Jamie Foxx 1.
3. Morgan Freeman
4. Mos Def
5. Will Smith 2.

FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
1. Laila Ali "Boxing"
2. Gail Devers "Track & Field"
3. Lisa Leslie "Basketball"
4. Serena Williams "Tennis" 1.
5. Venus Williams "Tennis"

MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
1. Allen Iverson "Basketball" 1.
2. LeBron James "Basketball" 2.
3. Donovan McNabb "Football"
4. Shaquille O'Neal "Basketball" 2.
5. Tiger Woods "Golf"

BET.com VIEWERS' CHOICE (SONG TITLE)
1. Ciara f/Missy Elliott "1, 2 Step" 1.
2. Destiny's Child f/Lil Wayne and T.I. "Soldier"
3. Mario "Let Me Love You"
4. Omarion "O"
5. Terror Squad f/Fat Joe "Lean Back"
6. T.I. " U Don't Know Me"

Watch the Red Carpet, youll see me chillin there taking mad ass pictures.

Posted by Anh at 9:05 AM | Comments (1)

June 3, 2005

Update: Josh USA Weekend Article

Just updating yall on the article that was ran on the weekend of May 22nd, where i had it up a few days early..

You can either scroll down and read it or Click HERE

Josh's Upcoming Schedule that i know of

June 24th
Opening Night at the Bowl
Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood, California

John Mauceri and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra host a star-studded celebration featuring 2005 Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame inductees Joshua Bell and Trisha Yearwood, a special induction tribute to Frank Sinatra hosted by Quincy Jones, our famous fireworks, and much more, all in support of Music Matters.

July 7
Cocktail reception in Honor of Stephen Sondheim
Alan & Marilyn Bergman Home
Los Angeles, California

An imtimate reception with ASCAP Foundation's President and Chairman who is also serving as Event chair. Dont be surprised if you rub elbows with Jason Alexander, Josh Groban, and other performers who will be performing the next day.

July 8
Stephen Sondheim's 75th: The Concert
Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood, California

Artists:

Los Angeles Philharmonic
Paul Gemignani, conductor
Jason Alexander
Carol Burnett
Len Cariou
Barbara Cook
Jason Danieley
Josh Groban
Angela Lansbury
Marin Mazzie
Audra McDonald Listen
Brian Stokes Mitchell
Donna Murphy
Bernadette Peters
Emmy Rossum
Vanessa Williams
Paul Lazarus, producer/director

Program:

From West Side Story to Follies, from Gypsy to Sweeney Todd, the inimitable Stephen Sondheim has been at the forefront of American musical theater. An all-star guest list including Jason Alexander, Nathan Lane, Angela Lansbury, Bernadette Peters, and others join the Los Angeles Philharmonic and longtime Sondheim collaborator Paul Gemignani to celebrate five decades of work from Broadway’s most prolific, innovative and thought-provoking composer-lyricist. A once-in-a-lifetime birthday concert.

August 27th
Film Night at Tanglewood
Koussevitzky Music Shed
Lenox, MA

Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra
John Williams, conductor
Josh Groban, vocalist

John Williams makes his only appearance of the 2005 season when he returns for the always-popular Film Night at Tanglewood. With the Boston Pops, he will recreate some of the great moments in Hollywood history. This year's concert features a special guest appearance by musical phenomenon Josh Groban, the Grammy-nominated artist who has sold a staggering 13 million albums and recently completed a highly acclaimed U.S. tour.

September 10th
David Foster Charity Gala
The River Rock Casino Resort
Richmond, British Columbia

This special fund raising event is in support of The David Foster Foundation, a unique charity assisting families with children requiring life saving organ transplants. The exclusive, private function is limited to 1000 local corporate and private citizens with all proceeds going directly to the Foundation.

The evening begins when David welcomes you in the theatre lobby at 7pm for an out of this world cocktail party and gourmet hors d’oeuvres. Your chance to preview the silent auction also begins at 7pm and the live auction will take place at 9pm. This is your chance to reward yourself with one of five truly Unique Experiences.

Following the auction, you will be entertained by Josh Groban and Renee Olstead as well as performances by surprise celebrity guests in River Rock’s magnificent new state-of-the-art theatre.

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Im sure you are wondering if i am goin to these events.. Well keep your eyes to this site and im sure i will say something about it!

Posted by Anh at 10:14 PM | Comments (1)

May 19, 2005

Update: Kara's Flower hits the Pond.. i mean Maroon 5...

Update:Read the article i wrote by clicking on this link

The band formerly known as Kara's Flowers, however im sure you would know the band as Maroon 5. I missed their concert back in February i think? at the Universal Amplitheatre, which recently changed their name to some weird name that i cant think of off the top of my head. Anywho... got to the Pond and it seemed a little dead getting into the parking lot. I thought it was just dead or people got there already since it was around 730ish. Last i was here for a concert was for Josh and man it was kinda packed, then again the show was at half capicity. They call it Theatre at Arrowhead Pond. I think they were trying to get at Theatre at Madison Square Garden. Now that was really nice, im thinking because it was a separate thing away from the arena and sports as i am guessing.

Got to my special VIP access thingly, away from lines and what not. Got there and recieved what i thought was my ticket. Melissa from Nederlander was really cute, and was my contact and she told me i had 2 tickets which i didnt even know. I was soo pissed. I was told by Maroon 5 publicist, Cat that i would only get one. But i knew it she was gonna be like that for whatever reason. Oh well, not like i havent covered a concert alone. Its better like that sorta.

Went in, looked at my ticket, section 102.. so i was like hmm.. it always gonna be decent. I mean i didnt pay for it, so i mean ok ya know?? but then i figured it was floor seat and a chair. Was about 15th row from the stage.. Hey floor seat are good seats, but yeah i been a little spoiled, and wanting to be closer.

I wished i was closer, there was a chick behind me who was being really annoying during The Thrills set. I was getting so annoyed. I just sucked it up and went along on my Sidekick. What was sorta funny was the dude a few seats from me, he was eating sunflower seeds and putting the shells on the floor. I mean it was all plushed carpeted and what not, but i mean cmon. Show a little class, you are in the floor section, and im sure for a reason.

Heres the funny thing, the dude left when Maroon 5 started. Whats even funnier than that? The annoying chick? She maded a "phone call" saying, "Michael Levine why arent you at your brother's concert." I just started laughing, either she did know him. Oh wait.. If you didnt follow, Adam Levine is the front man of Maroon 5 and im taking it that Michael is his brother. Anywho, she went on a conversation i didnt really follow much. But when she said Michael Levine bla bla, she said it really loud. I mean, it wasnt really loud since it was a break between the Thrills and Maroon 5. Anyways. Another funny thing that happened was that there was a chick behind me, mind you it was floor seats, she had her ears plugged. I mean why are you sitting there if you didnt know to get blown away?? I sure was, my ears were ringing all night after..

They got on the stage around 9ish. They were behind a curtain and the lights gave a silhouette that was projected on the curtain. The drum down beat changed colors from red, to blue to teal, to purple. It was exciting to be honest, which i wasnt expecting. Last i saw them was at Jingle Ball, but it wasnt their concert or stage, so i wasnt really impressed. Then the spotlight came down on Adam with guitar in hand. I wasnt too sure what song they came in with but im about 80 percent sure it was "Tangled." Man the song was hella funky and so much better live. Pretty much every single song was much better live and you dont get that often.

They played song after song, rarely any breaks between the songs which is great. Nonestop great music and lights and everything. Of course there had to be some lady next to me who was to be honest quite large and was dancing nonstop. I wouldnt mind the dancing, let alone herself so much if she didnt dance like she was at woodstock as a hippe. Im not goin to explain it but im sure you can picture it.

They sung new tracks like "Wasted Years," with a reggae sound and "I Can't Stop Thinking About You" with an 80's keyboard sound. Cant wait to hear the studio version of the tracks.

"Harder to Breathe" they had the strobes all crazy and flashing and man.. I cant say enough how this show was soo off the hook. Before "This Love," Adam made everyone get out of their seats, and i had to just look around because the light was shining on everyone. It must be an incredible feeling to see about 2000 eyes well double that, cheering and screaming for you. Everyone sang in unison to the chrous of "This love."

Check out a lil video i took of "This Love"

All and all i loved the show. I loved it so much i might go see them in Vegas on 11th of June at MGM. I got this incredible high from the show and want it back!! haha..

Maroon 5 is a bonafide rock band, lets hope the sophmore effort is the same as the freshman

Maroon 5 - This Love Live
Sunday May 8th, 2005
Arrowhead Pond Anaheim, CA

Be patient it is loading.. however if you just want to download it.
Right-Click Here and Save As
on to your harddrive.

Posted by Anh at 4:28 PM | Comments (0)

April 22, 2005

Mr. Thomas goes on it on his own...

April 19th, Rob Thomas comes to LA to Avalon, formally The Palace. His cd "Something To Be," was released today and i am waiting what kind of sound he will be working with compared to Matchbox 20. I didnt like the band all too much but Rob Thomas is a great singer as you can tell by "Smooth" with Santana, which won 3 Grammys. However the single that is out, is friggin tight, and i aint going to lie, i am a pop whore. The "Lonely No More" track is tight, the video is hot, and wanna see what else is in store.

Headed to Avalon, well after work then headed home. Didnt have to be there until 8. Got down there around 730 leaving at 6. I love driving to LA, especially when theres no traffic, the music is up and weather is nice. I calms me so, and i cant wait until i do it in my Cooper with the top down.

Got there, picked my tickets at Will Call and asked for my photo pass, didnt have it yet. Went inside and i was like wow, this is my type of place. Very posh, LAisk however its pretty old. It used to be called the Place. Went in, went to the main stage and i was like this was pretty interesting. I go in and just chill with my pad and checking all my phones left and right. Some chick that was pretty cute went up and said hi and i said hi back. That was pretty much the extent of it.

I kept on checking out if the photopass was there. I just wanted to get it and take my photos already. Waited and waited, and just checked out the ladies. Wow.. LA chicks... anoriex, plastied and blonde. Saw so many passing by and wow...

So yeah, i kept on waiting and waiting. Saw a few photographers outside. Went out there and talked to them. One i remember from Alicia Keys show, and i said hi. Stood around and what not. Finally Glenn from Alantic Records came. He also handles Ryan Cabrera. I wanna see who else he handles. Anywho.. some chick brought the wrong ticket and couldnt get in and i gave her one of my tickets.

Went in and waited for the chick who was opening to end. There was this dude all into it like crazy. Screaming, raising his arms. It was kinda funny. 7:50 walked up to the front, in the photo pit. I noticed this chick and the other photgraphers talking to her. I asked one of the girls, and they were like shes with Nederlander. I had to think about it but i figured out that they promote shows at the Greek theatre and other places. I made sure i would contact her soon to get another contact for other concerts! hehe.

Rob got on stage around 8 and i must say the stage was pretty interesting and nice.. Had all these lights and what not. I wouldnt mind having that stuff in my room. With all the crazy lights and smoke and such. Took my pictures with the first 3 songs, it was pretty nice being like 1 foot from the stage and up close. Me and my dinky camera with all the people with professional ones.

Left the photo pit and went around and stood and watched the rest of the show. Here i am standing alone, with my writing pad, checking out the show when this large fella came up to me and said, what you all about? I wasnt too sure what he meant and then he went on to ask me questions. Where you from blah blah, like a typical drunk would go about. Then he said, what are you doing here. I answered watching the concert. He went to go on saying something about you dont belong here. I was laughing and he was like because you look like a White Korean. I started laughing my ass off soooo bad. Wearing my grey blazer, i think my CBGB shirt, my framed glasses, express jeans and my chucks. So i guess, i looked like a white korean?? He went on to say i didnt belong there because everyone there was all yuppies and admitted he was a redneck. I didnt care really he was in the VIP section and he invited me in. Introducted me to his wife, who was pretty but had really huge boobs. Of course they were artifical since they were statuting me even when she wasnt looking at me.

Anywho, watched the rest of the show. Great music. Very fun. But i booked it out of there when i finished.

Lonely no more....

Posted by Anh at 10:01 AM | Comments (0)

April 11, 2005

Confirmed 102.7 KIIS FM WANGO TANGO Lineup..

Its 8:50AM, and here is the total line up. Before KIIS FM announces it officially all day today. I predicted 9 out of the 14 and it would have been about 12 but Simple Plan's schedule was kinda pushing it so i didnt say that. Black Eyed Peas was a dead give away but i didnt know they had a new single out, and Natalie, ehh whatevers... Jlo, im not a huge fan, so it didnt even cross my mind.

Wango Tango will be pretty tight, Ryan Cabrera, Will Smith. Man im getting hella excited now... Anyways, enjoy the list and see you there!!

Shhh, dont tell KIIS i announced their lineup before them

Posted by Anh at 8:48 AM | Comments (0)

April 7, 2005

UPDATE: Its... TRUE!!!

~~READ THE PUBLISHED ARTICLE HERE~~

Click on the pictures to check out the galleries

Ryan Cabrera hits Los Angeles for the 3rd time on tour. Finally get a chance to see him, because the first time was at Jojo Jam. Barely saw him due to many reason but i did catch "True." I knew i was going to like song, and the second time was at Steve Harvey's Big Time. That was interesting, and recently was at Wiltern LG.

I already had tickets in the works, but i got them confirmed the day of. Headed down to Los Angeles and driving on Wilshire. I was like this looks totally familar, this was the stupid directions someone gave me to get to UCLA. Not even close!

Got there right around 7 and got my tickets at Will Call. There was a group of people in front of me and i noticed the girl. I couldnt put my finger on it, but she look totally familar. It wasnt until i got inside and went to stand somewhere and she was behind me when i put it together. It was TAYLOR COLE!! She stars on Summerland with Jesse Mccartney and Lori Loughlin. I had to think really hard why she was there, and it dawned on me. She was in Ryan's "True" music video, and she is also a fan. I'm told she was in his show at the House of Blues back in November. She was checking out Bonnie Mckee, however i totally lost her during Ryan's set, but then again i was in the photo pit. All i have to say is that she is stunning, and looks sooo much better in person, and she has this pouty face she does and man... i could friggin melt....

Since i got there right at 7, i missed the call time to get escorted to the photo section. I tried to find someone who could help me, but it was pointless. So i went down as far as i could. Enjoy Bonnie as much as i could while taking pictures like a mad man with a crappy 3.2 megapixel Canon Digital Elph. This camera is perfect for point and shoot, but for distant photos, its just horrible. Zoom sucks and man.. i dont know, but im saving up for a Digital SLR, 8 megapixels and a better zoom.

Bonnie was looking pretty way hot and what not. I couldnt stay in one spot the whole night and just walked all over the place. For some reason my head turned and i caught the eyes with someone. Someone for almost exactly one month ago, we decided we will not talk anymore. Said our goodbyes and went on with it. It totally shocked me, like i was taken back and i thought i stopped but the momenteum of my body kept on moving me. It was a split second, but still. I was like.. uhh what is she doing here. So i proceeded to the bar, got a drink to take some egde off and went on my merry way. Its all bout the pineapple juice and rum!! I wasnt too sure if it was her or not, but she confirmed it a few days ago when she contacted me about it. Thats all that will be said about that... for now.. back to Mr. Cabrera. Well one more thing, this contact was suppose to happen uhhh like a few years down the line, not like exactly a month after... but.. yeah.. rambling...and if you know what im talking about, do not even ask me about it. I will get a little peeved...

Ryan hit the stage at 7:50 and i had to leave to meet up with my press escort. Went out to the lobby and noticed there was way trendy people there, but its Los Angeles, what ya gonna do?? I met up with the girl, from Avalon, her name was Lennora. I just gave her my info and she check me off and we just started chatting. I dont know why, but man it seemed like we knew each other forever. Just joking it all up, and just messing around. It was tight, the other press people were what it seems looking at me weird. I was like, whatever.. Lennora goes on to tell me about how she sell outs shows, and stuff and i thought that was really tight. I asked about Wango Tango, and she didnt tell me anything. She told me she cant say anything for another 2 weeks. But i caught wind that it was May 14th, and at the Anaheim Stadium. She neither confirmed or denyed my info. All she said is that, "You know what ups already, im just not going to say anything."

Time, to walk us to the front of the Wiltern Theatre and get in position. We were about 15 feet from the stage on the handicap ramp. I had the whole ramp to run around and take photos and it was elevated which was great because it was over the audience who were in the pit. Lennora was chillin at the end of the ramp standing alone and i was like girl you needa chill up here. She came up all saying im working. But she chilled it out and gave me some heads up on some of the other press people there and told me a little about the dvd. See, the show was being taped for his upcoming concert DVD. So cant wait to check that out.

Homeboy came out with a toy accordian. I was like this fool, however it was funny nonetheless. Song went right into "Lets Take Our Time," and i was just taking pictures left and right. I was so busy doing that, that i didnt even remember the first song until the next day, i racked my brain and figured it out. My friend was going to the Diego show and i told him to remember the song. He text me "Exit to Exit," and i started laughing, i knew this foo wouldnt know his songs, but he was going anyways. HAHA. i got a few words but i aint going to say anything. Mums the word..

"Shame on me," i love this song and its so funny. When i heard this song back in November, i couldnt stopped laughing, because its sooo true. I also cant believe the cd came out in Novemeber, thats about like 5 and half months ago and it seem like so long ago.

Funniest thing, this foo started singing and dancing to Paula Abdul "Straight Up." Man, the 80s were nice.. hahaha.. the dance was hilarious. Also you can tell he has watched Napoleon Dynamite. Reciting lines and doing the hand bird show.. Shout out to the homie Efren Ramierez.. aka Pedro.. VOTE FOR PEDRO!!! Homie i hope you got a car finally, so people dont gotta pick your ass up to party in Rancho!!

Totally loved the cover of Paul Simon's, "You Can Call Me Al." Nice upbeat song and great pick. Wasnt too sure if the audience even knew the song. ehh.. What you going to do??

I would wanna comment about when he sung the song "She's." But im just not going to go there. Explaining the last song "On the Way Down," it was left open for interpation for the general masses, but it was written as what you would say a Christian song. "One the way down,i saw you, and you saved me from my self, and i wont forget the way you loved me." It can be open, but a Christian song all the way, no surprised, he lived with Joe Simpson for a few years after he discovered him. Joe Simpson, the mastermind behind his two daughters, Jessica and Ashlee. Joe gave up being a pastor for being a manager. hmmm.. anyways.. Another song on the album that is Christian based is "Take It All Away."

Anyways.. left after he performed "On the Way Down." I had a feeling he was going to do an encore. "True" and "Exit to Exit" were the songs, which is no big deal. Heard he played the drums again, and thats all dandy.. Ill just wait for the DVD, and check it all out.. Got a high from the show and wanted to go to diego and go check it out the next day.. but time issues.. All and all, he is a great performer and looks like a cool dude to chill with. I will indeed check out another concert if he is in town and i can get hooked up again with some free tickets!!

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ON THE WAY DOWN!!!!

Posted by Anh at 9:37 PM | Comments (1)

April 3, 2005

Jessica Marie Alba.... Finally getting the attention she deserves....

I would say one of the wonders of the world.. Loved her ever since Never Been Kissed, Camp NOWHERE, and even back to the Flipper days. Its nice to know that she is coming out with 3 movies this year with 2 of them being blockbusters. I can ramble on, but im just going to let the photos talk for themselves.

However, one comment, i found it odd about the poses she had in GQ Magazine. When i was at the Jimmy Kimmel Show with Jessica and Michelle Branch. Where she waved at me... :). HAHA.. Anyways.. Michelle was on the cover of Maxim Magazine the month after Jessica was on it. Michelle was on it, showing her naked back on the cover, Jessica commented that she could never do that because she is self conscience about her body.. Guess not any more from the pictures in GQ and her role in Sin City as a stripper..... Hey im not complaining, and im sure lots of your are not either.

GQ Magazine Photos April 2005

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Interview Magazine April 2005

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Very very elegant... The blonde hair, not a big fan of it so much but its for Fantastic Four, so its all good.

Wow....

Posted by Anh at 9:35 PM | Comments (1)

March 22, 2005

Trendy Sushi soo doesnt rock...

Stated on Geisha House Hollywood.com

GEISHA HOUSE provides a sexy dining experience that titillates the senses, beginning with the palate and continuing from there…

While most sushi restaurants tend to ignore or hide from Japan’s rich sexual history… GEISHA HOUSE embraces it.

Oh, that they do. They embrace the sexual history with having the house DJ spin music in a see through Japanese inspired dress with her wearing under nothing but a thong and bra. If this is how the Japanese live, I think im turning Japanese, i think im turning Japanese.... :p

At first glance,the restaurant, it doesn’t look like much. You do see the famous Geisha powdered face with the red lips at the corner of Hollywood and Cherokee. When walking to the entrance that is off of Cherokee, it looks like you are walking through an exclusive Hollywood club with the curtain over the door which you would think would reveal a man of stature in a black suit, sunglasses and an ear piece mic. However, no such guy was appeared. Maybe it was not a busy day since it was in the middle of the week. The walk away to the hostess is filled with red lights and mirrors that give you that illusion you are walking down a long hall.

When you actually step foot in the restaurant, you are instantly drawn to the bar. The bar with all its lights and television screens in what looks like its embedded into the wall, normally playing Japanese anime. Immediately across from the bar is what you would call the "trendy Hollywooders." You know, the little cliques you have in High School. Well this area is where the hip, happening hang out with their 10 dollar Martini and drink them without a car in the world.

So i get seated in where it looks at an obscure location to have a table. Right at the entrance of the stairs to the upper level of the restaurant and next to one of the decored what looks like a private booth as you see in the picture above. The music was a weird blend of today’s rock bands such as Modest Mouse and the Killers with the dance tracks of the 90s.

Service was excellent as you would expect from a restaurant from The Dolce Group. However the food may not be equal among them. I am a huge fan of Dolce, wonderful food, great vibe and good times. Im am not too easy to say that about Geisha House. Ive eaten at many Sushi places and the sushi here left me rather longing for something else. I ordered what i would usually get at any sushi joint, unagi which is fresh water eel, anything with avocado, and anything with tempura or is crunchy. The menu did indeed offer what i wanted, a Hollywood roll with crab or shrimp tempura, i cannot recall. Also got an eel and avocado roll.

I will have to say the sushi wasn’t on par with restaurants like Kabuki or even my new favorite place Sakana in Upland. Portions were quite minimal which is sort of amusing in a town that likes to be flashy and big and better. Sushi had way too much rice and not enough eel, avocado and even shrimp. I had a taste of the shrimp sushi which was more of the same. I found it odd that the sushi i was eating was from Genichi “Gen” Mizoguchi. He comes from a line of famous Sushi chef back in Toyko. Gen has even mastered the art of blowfish. After eating the sushi, i wished i had the blowfish so that i could gamble my life with a poisonious fish rather than eat more of the sushi. I will however give him a little slack since i did not ask if he was the one preparing the sushi. Only thing i really enjoyed was the Edamame which are the steamed soy beans and had a taste of the tempura. You cannot mess up tempura.

The only thing that kept me not hating the food and giving my thoughts to the chef was the vibe and the chicks. The backdrop to the smoking area was nicely lighted with the skyline of Tokyo. Serveral people especially girls were heading back to the smoking area, which made me wished i smoke so i can go out there and start some casual conversation with that girl...

Bottomline, i love the restaurant and everything, but you cant love it that much if the food isnt up to expectations or decent taste. I can see myself hanging out here and chillaxin at the bar and such. As for dining, i will give it a few more chances and see what else the place has to offer..

Girls, sushi, and rock and roll!!!

Posted by Anh at 10:48 AM | Comments (0)

March 19, 2005

My Boo... oh!!! oh!!!

Alicia Keys came to town. Well Los Angeles that is because we all know Rancho Cucamonga is my town, then again Los Angeles, i am always there. Anyways. had the general day at work however i brought my change of clothes to work, so that i can change before work is over so that i head out right when work is done. So i bring my express jeans, versace button up and my chucks, and hang it up at my at my desk and get back to work.

Then i hear comments and i hear someone go, i know i make a few more bucks than you do, but i dont wear versace. I just looked at him and go, oh... its not versace, it Fosace. Everyone in the office started goin around making comments and shit and i was just like whatever. Its fake, blah blah, this and that. People asking prices, and i was like 10 dollars in the alley. I didnt want to say how much it was, but if you want to compare it cost about an iPod or so. THERE!! Jeezesh.. I wonder how they office would react if they found out i own more than 1 shirt.

Headed out to LA around 5:20 and made it out there at 6:30. Hella surprised. Met up with a friend at LA Weekly where they work, hung out there and what not. Walked over to the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland. Called time for press is at 7:45. Got my pass and then was escorted in. Heres the thing, i was 1 of 7 people who were allowed to take photos along side The Source, OC Register, and LA Time. I was the only one running around taking pictures because i had this little digital camera and the other photographers had these huge paparazzi lenses and shit. What i like to do is see how far i can push my press pass, i went right up to the front row and started taking pictures. The ushers would say no cameras and go back to your seat and i would point to my sticker and they would be oh ok. The security werent so nice, haha.

Kodak Theatre, hella nice venue. However it is pretty small. Of course it always look big on television. The capacity is 3,500. Very nice with them private booth thingys.

John Legend, ive had his album for awhile and havent listened to it. However, this dude is a great performer and he had some tight ass songs. Tracks like "I Can Change" "Used to Love You" "She Dont Have to Know" You can check out these tracks on my radio, when i have it up. Coming real soon. Anyways, Alicia Keys had a great set. She had this 50's vibe goin on with Cab Calloway and the whole band and what not as you can tell with the pictures below. I didnt get to check out the whole show because they had security on lock and kicked out the photo people after the second song. I wanted to get a review ticket but fuckin her tour PR chick didnt get me on it. This is the same chick who was bouncing me around with the Ashlee Simpson concert. Thats what i get dealing with people from NYC.

Oh!! before the concert, i see Farnsworth Bentley with a chick. This nigga is hella tall, but he was sporting purple pants. I was about to say. If ya dont know who he is, hes the dude who holds Puffy's umbrella. Ray Liotta was with his daughter which is a nice thing to do. Jane Yamamoto, from FOX was there. Dude i see her EVERYWHERE i go. Also, i found out Kanye West had a surprise appearance on her show on Thursday performing two songs. That would have been hot to check out.. Dude, i love the ladies who come out to Hollywood, so fione and diverse.. There was this chick sitting behind me, where we friggin caught eyes everytime i i turned around or leave me seat.. WOW! Did i mention i love LA?? I sing the phrases of Randy Newman all the time!! I LOVE LA!!

Here are the pictures i took with my shitty Canon S400 ELPH. Great photos for still, i needa go get a better one for distance,action, and lighting. Anyways, you can take these pictures if you like, but not for commercial use. They are copyrighted, so actually take them, and if i find out you will be paying me some moola. They can help me get my car faster. THANKS!!

Alicia Keys.... pretty much speechless....again

Posted by Anh at 7:18 PM | Comments (0)

March 13, 2005

"Be Cool" with Misha Barton....

Saturday.. headed out to Hollywood for what i believed was some fashion show type thing. I got the invite, i RSVPed. Wasnt too sure what whats really going on but i thought it would be cool if Misha Barton was hosting the whole deal. She is the spokesperson for Keds. Keds has this whole campaign around her entitled, "Be Cool." I heard a lot about it, but not really into the shoes personally, more of a chick thing.

Well my hair was hella long and i got a haircut thingy. Didnt feel like asking my mom for the haircut, half of you people know why but yeah. One of my co corkers had a friend who knows a friend and blah blah. So i get my haircut, took like a friggin hour. Was the only dude there, and yeah.. My mom has cut my hair since i was little except the time in 90 where i got this coupon for a free haircut at fantastic sams and got a mo hawk. No judgments! It was the 90s.. haha.. Kid and Play, you know that stuff. HAHA.. And the few times the family wanted to experiment with my dang hair. Anyways, the hair came out ok.. but... i havent been able to spike my hair for a few years now. I think i had it spiked in Conneticuit when i was living there and when i came back it could not be spiked anymore. I dont even care now. I dont even use gel anymore but i dont know.. After this haircut, i am rocking a messy spiked look and i guess its all good..

I left for LA at 5:30, hella hella late. I had to be at this LOST thing at 6:30 but i didnt make it. I didnt get there until 7:00. Then i proceeded to drive up and down Hollywood and Sunset. I had to find a ATM and i did. The Misha Barton party thing didnt start until 8:00, so it was all good. Man, does Hollywood get crowded on the weekends. I am usually not down there on the weekend driving around. Usually in some club or at some event. Anyways..

Gotta set it up. So earlier in the day, i was watching Powergirls on MTV. About Lizzie Grubman's PR firm and what not. The first episode, they were putting on the event to open Ruby Falls. They had the red carpet, people in front with the clipboards and what not. Then one of the PR chicks, said its about how you have to keep the wrong people out and let the right people in and have to turn away lots of people. That got me thinking, i bet anything it will happen to me.

So i show up at Day After, this ultra trendy and as far as i know invite only club right off of Hollywood and Highland. Show up at the door and do the usual tell them my name and show id to get a stamp or wrist band for the bar. My name isnt on the damn list. I was gonna get so crazy, i was like do you know who i am?? I told her i spoke to Suzanne who was the PR girl on this event, and funny how the person i was talking to was Suzanne. Ok before i go on, this girl had one too many plastic surgery jobs. Her lips were a little too big and her faced looked a little too pulled back, but what can i say?? its friggin Hollywood. Anyways. Had the whole thing settled and made my way into the club. Got a drink, open bar, gotta love it.

Hung out for a bit, this pace was really nice. I mean it was above Hollywood, you see the streets from the windows. It was a really nice place, it had its areas and rooms. It was pretty rad, they had an area for the press photos and what not. You know with the backdrop and such. Misha showed up and was wearing something hella funky like some little girl would wear. I havent seen or talked to her since my last red carpet movie premiere thing, which was sooo long ago. Why? im not going to get into that right now. But it was nice to see her again. Very very posh people in Hollywood. I have been out of the loop and man, but yeah it was hella nice there. Hot Hot people, and there was this one chick who.. really had a pretty big rack that didnt look right. Like im sure they were real but man.. again whats even funny. Ive seen her somewhere but yeah. Misha introduced Trespassers William, they were a pretty good band. Kinda reminded me of Zero 7. I chilled in the front with Misha, who was with her boyfriend i think. Havent kept tracked of her for awhile, so i am not really sure. She is sure looking cuter from the last i've seen her.

But it was a pretty tight party type deal. Free drinks is all i got to say, and party people. I wasnt really scoping out the people but i think i noticed Sara Rue from Less Than Perfect. She lost some weight and is looking pretty foxy. Oh if you are wondering if i took any pictures, its not that type of deal. Guestlist only and what not. I tend not to get autographs when i do other events. Its so... dont know whats the word but yeah. I did take a picture with my camera phone when no one was looking and where no one was for a split moment. It was of the stairs. It look really cool to me and yeah.. here ya go..

All and all, it was a good night. Back to my city which i will be coming back on Tuesday and Thursday. Cant wait for those days and the drive. HURRAY!!

Getting back into the mix, one party at a time

Posted by Anh at 10:09 PM | Comments (0)

but your ratings are sooo low..

That is what generally was the mood all night. What am i talking about?? I am referring to the Jack & Bobby last Wednesday night at the DGA Theater complex in Hollywood.

Lets start off that i was sooo effin late. I left work around 5:20 and headed straight to LA. Dude the traffic was horrible and this was after work, so i was dead tired and everything. I got to the place at 6:58 and i was pretty much late for any interviews or photo opts. Just got to the press check-in and got my ticket and went right in. It wasnt too crowded, but i expected that because the show's time slot has been moved all over the place on The WB which usually means poor ratings, so they move it around to see how the show would do against other shows, other time slots, or a strong lead in.

Anywho, to be totally honest, i did try to follow this show. I checked out the pilot before the show aired and thought it was a great concept. If you havent seen the show or heard of it, its about a boy who grows up to be president. Simple concept, however it is much deeper than that. It goes through how experiences and family and friends can influence a president's decision 40 years down the line. The show has covered already topics such as gun control, sex, and usual dealings of everyday human emotions and politics. So i watched the show on and off, and to be honest i never found a great attachment to this show as i do with other shows such as Everwood because its so clever with human emotions. The OC, because its quite funny and i like to say i was into the show before anyone else was. The list goes on and on..

The panel started off with watching the show. The cast was in house in the front seats. Theres something about watching the show with the actors about 10 feet away from you. It gives an appreciation to their performance. In the house were, Greg Berlanti, Christine Lahti, Logan Lerman, Mickey Liddell, Matt Long, Jessica Pare, Edwin Hodge, Keri Lynn Pratt, and Vanessa Taylor. Greg Berlanti and Mickey Liddell are the creators for this show and also Everwood. That was enough for me, to hear the creators of one of my favorite shows talk and in person. I wished i had a chance to talk to them and tell them what a wonderful show they created. Christine Lahti, one of the premiere female actors in Hollywood right next to Joan Allen i would say. Logan Lerman, you may have seen him as the young Ashton Kucher in the Bufferfly Effect.

Anyways, the moderator, Susan Estrich who is some Law Professor and Political Science at USC was a horrible moderator. She started off the panel asking about the shows rating and why is it so slow. Greg Berlanti had to define the show and saying how it has great support and was not finding its audience, in which they are not. The show is kinda hard to digest because its on The WB which is pretty much teen dramas and what not. Jack & Bobby is a pretty serious show at heart on top of a teen drama, but what is still a political show. Pretty much the whole night revolved around this topic of ratings and nothing else. The audience, which was prodominitly the older folks made their comments known. I really like the show with its witty politcal references and the strongly liberal mom and the highly conservative college professor.

Sidenote.. is it me or am i a magnet for loud annoying people where i go? From my first Josh Groban concert, where the people who sat behind me had to have a loud conversation while he was on stage. Then to the second Josh Groban concert where one lady was conducting the concert with her glowsticks and the hamburger smelling lady. Like are you friggin kidding me?? Concerts, shows, events, anything that is in public. It really just is attracted to me and it sucks. Oh well..

As for the panel, i really wanted to hear more about how they were casted and what did they go through to have their part, but it was more and more about ratings, the show, and the audience defending the show. I found it really upsetting. However, what was good about the night is that i saw the Josh Groban concert billboard for the Vegas show, and thought that was pretty cool..

Jack & Bobby, Wednesdays at 9:00PM on The WB. Support the Show

Posted by Anh at 7:06 PM | Comments (0)

February 8, 2005

Update: Ashlee Simpson

Its always good to be persistant. As i posted in a previous post. Im trying to check out Ashlee concert and actually see if i can ask her a few questions. I just started listening to her cd, which i had for the longest time. Anyways.. here are the updates.

Anh,
Currently we are unable to grant press review requests for her tour.
Should I change, I will let you know.
Thanks.
Cheryl

When i got this yesterday, i was like damn that sucks. Then i got this today..

You need to call Geffen in LA for tickets - tour publicist is *******
You*****. Her number is 310 555 8905.

I censored the name and phone number due to privacy issues and privileged information. So yeah, im going to be making the call at lunch and see if i can get some tickets. HURRAY!! Now i dont know how many im getting and if im getting them for someone or whatever. So its all good, Ashlee here i come!!!

Just surrender

-A

Posted by Anh at 8:49 AM | Comments (0)

February 4, 2005

Whorin: Grammy Awards 2005.

Man o man, im just a little pissed. Why? Back in December i was trying to apply for some press access to this years Grammy Awards on February 13th. I didnt finish my application because i was being nice and putting someelse else first and tried to get a simple information tidbit from my friend. However she just lagged it and man. I didnt care that i didnt get my passes. Heres what they told me.

Credential Request Decline Letter

The Recording Academy® regrets that we are unable to accommodate your media request to cover the 47th Annual GRAMMY® Awards on February 13 in Los Angeles.

Due to extremely limited space within the Media Center, we were able to only credential a small fraction of the hundreds of media outlets that applied.

So i was thinking to myself, oh they didnt have space. But i was thinking to myself and i was like i didnt even finish my application. So i go and email them and see what they say...

Unfortunately the deadline to request credentials was January 30th. For future reference a credential application is posted every year immediately following the nominations press conference.

I WAS FURIOUS!!! The only reason why i am not attending because i was waiting for someone, because i wanted her to go. GOD, this wasnt the only time. JoJo Jam, my friend who was performing got pissed off at me. He pull strings to get me backstage access. However i was late to it because i was waiting for someone. This occurance wasnt her fault, but just made me remember it when i got that letter from the Grammy people. Whatever, maybe next year. I am still trying to attend either as a guest or press member. I have to see whats up with some people and stuff..

Was putting you first worth it in the end?

-A

Posted by Anh at 12:39 PM | Comments (0)

Whorin: Fun fun at the Museum of Television and Radio.

Ive been going to the Museum of Television and Radio in Beverly Hills since my freshman year in college after i was introduced to it in my Television Broadcasting class. I got into it more when i hear about the William S. Paley Television Festival. Last year i went to The OC and Smallville one. However for the Smallville one, i should have gotten press access to it, but there was some miscommunication with the Museum's publicist. Showed up and it was a whole mess, and i was kinda mad because thats my friggin show and shit. However it was all good because i went shopping afterwards and it was all better. HAHA.

Anyways, i contacted the publicist again this year when i heard about Gilmore Girls having a seminar for their 100th episode. Gilmore Girls is a tight show and i wanted to go and check it out and the Paley festival was coming up again and i was like ok why not.

Heres what the publicist sent me, Terry Smith:
January 20th:

I have one press ticket available for you for The Gilmore Girls 100th. And let me know which nights are you interested in for Paley...

I was like, right on. I finally get to talk to Lauren Graham and chatter with Scott Peterson again. Yippee skippy. However its only one press ticket and i tried to get a friend to go with me and purchase a ticket. So i might be doing this solo, which is good practice. I need to stop depending on other people because im usually disappointed, plus i always meet people there anyways.

Heres another email from Terry about the Paley Festival.
February 2:

Anh,

At this time, I can comp one press ticket for Jack & Bobby and Boston Legal and have you on the standby list for Desperate Housewives and Lost.

Right one again! Boston Legal is such a tight ass show. James Spader is one of the best actors on a television series right now, Emmy winning and all. Jack and Bobby is also a good show, not following too much, nonetheless a great drama. NOW! Desperate Housewives, a good looking cast, funny show and very very interesting. Breakout hit of the season, along with Lost. One show i wanna get into, but havent seen an episode just yet. I need to do my research before i go and interview the cast. Or i can just bullshit it.

I will have pictures, reviews of the event, and if i have time and write an article. I will post it up here for ya to check out.

For the full list of shows and to purchase tickets. Go to William S. Paley Festival 2005. Tickets go on sale to members of the Museum tomorrow at 9:00 at Ticketweb.com For the General public is on February 11th.

I am telling you right now from my last experience last year. The popular shows will be sold out before it gets to the general public. My advice? Go on eBay. I can promise you the cost will be the same but if you are a huge fan, of the shows. It is a great experience to hear about the show and see the whole cast together in an intimate, fun, and exciting setting. I will most likely have a few tickets on eBay for bidding.

The second and third week of March is goin to be BUSY!

-A

Posted by Anh at 12:37 PM | Comments (1)

February 2, 2005

Whorin: Miss Ashlee Simpson.

Ashlee Simpson, what can you say about her. She is a pretty chick who lip syncs? Well at the time it happened it was funny, but here more about what was the deal and catching the premiere of the second season of her show. I do believe her and all that stuff. I mean Britney Spears does it all the time, and she hasnt got as much heat as Ashlee has.

Anyways, so she is finally goin on tour which i dont think is a good idea since her voice started goin out when her ablum finished. The strain of being on the road and singing night after night will kill her voice. Dont know how shes goin to do, but good thing her second concert is in Los Angeles, so at least i will hopefully see her best somewhat.

So i decided to contact her publicist, because i want to check her out and maybe get some hook ups to chatter with her some. I had her publicist info from Jingle Ball and i thought i use it. My friend is friends with her and Jessica, but i dont need to be dropping names and shit. So i contact her publicist and heres what i got in response. First thing, this isnt her publicist that contacted me. Must be her East Coast rep or whatever. Not too sure.

Hi,
Thank you for your recent request to interview Ashlee Simpson. Unfortunately, due to an already oversubscribed schedule she is unavailable for an interview at this time. Should anything change, I will be sure to contact you. Thanks again.
Best,
Cheryl

I mean, thats nice Cheryl. You will contact me to talk and interview her. I didnt want to interview in her in the first place. However that would be cool i guess? I just want some tickets to check her out and some press perks at the concert. My friend sister birthday is coming up and maybe i can get her to meet her or something. Who the heck knows.. I emailed back wondering about the concert and tickets and hopefully it is doable and stuff. If not, i guess im not goin to see her this time. Already kinda seen her twice and yeah.. who knows.. ill keep ya posted..

You wanna Lala?

-A

Posted by Anh at 2:16 PM | Comments (0)