Kesta Happening Magazine March Issue by Kesta Happening

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ MARCH 2012

March TABLE OF CONTENT

ISSUE # 12

6 ROCK

Ratones Paranoicos, Violadores, & Riff

7 ELECTRONIC

Mexican `Institute of Sound

9 CIRCUS

Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Barley

10 TROPICAL Huey Dunbar

11 URBAN Vena

12 KESTADC.COM GALLERY

Photos of concerts and DC nightlife

13 UPCOMING EVENTS

Calendar of upcoming events

14 FEATURE

Frida Kahlo: Her Photos

17 FOOD

The Parva Restaurant

18 Mi PAIS Brazil

20 HEALTH

Are you stuck in a diet rut?

22 STYLE

Turn Up The Brights!

24 KESTA GIRIL Crystal Milana

PUBLISHER: Media644 / DIRECTOR: Juan Luis Gonzalez / EDITOR: Amanda Landrian, Rosario Garcia DESIGN: Miriam Jave / WEB & TECHNOLOGY: Javier Gonzalez / WRITERS: Maria Veronica Cevallos, Christina Cortés,

Aline Barros, Ellen Flores, Rosario Garcia, Amanda Landrian, Juan Leon, Jenny Osoria, Marco Rossy, Gloria Turin

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jose Acha, Juan Luis Gonzalez, William Espinoza, Harold Reynold

SALES: Jose Acha, William Espinoza / CONTACT US: info@kestamag.com, www.kestadc.com, tel: 202 643 0555

26 LOCAL TALENT Nebsi Camacho

27 RADIO PERSONALITY César El Tra

29 KE?

Win tickets to Eva Ayllón & Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey

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ROCK

APOKALIPSIS ROCK:

RIFF

RATONES PARANOICOS

VIOLADORES

By Ellen Flores

or one night only, the State Theater will transform into the house of Rock Nacional Argentino to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Kesta Happening Magazine! Apokalipsis Rock: Violadores, Ratones Paranoicos, & Riff will be THE show to see this month. Michel Peyronel from Riff, Juanse from Ratones Paranoicos and Stuka from Violadores, will join forces to perform classics from all three legendary bands. If you like The Sex Pistols or The Cure, then you will love Los Violadores. For years, frontman and bassist Stuka, has led the anti-establishment, anti-nonsense punk sound they are notorious for. Los Violadores were the first punk rock band to gain notoriety in Argentina. Their first album (selftitled) is still considered one of the most aggressive and important in the history of Argentinian rock music. Tracks like “Sucio Poder” and “Represión” perfectly frame the attitude, guts and vile that Los Violadores had back in the 1980’s. Maybe metal is more your thing. Then I suggest a dose of Riff. Their most well known album is their first recording “Ruedas de Metal” which awakens the head banger in anyone; just listen to “Mucho por hacer” and “Rayo Luminoso”. If that doesn’t get your head banging and fists pumping, then I don’t

know what will. Riff at one point in their career were close to being banned in Argentina. Blamed for inciting riots in the Obras stadium in 1983, Riff was dubbed as “la banda maldita”. It wasn’t until the album VII that the band had a successful concert without any violent aftermath.

River Plate stadium, the concert sold-out a stadium capacity 80,000 people, for five nights in a row. Later that year, the band released a compilation album that summarized the first ten years of their career. “Raros Ratones” had three unreleased tracks including: “Sucio Gas”, “Carol” and “Destruida Roll”.

Before we get too ahead of ourselves, let’s remember Los Ratones Paranoicos and why they are so influential in music history. Los Ratones Paranoicos are for many, the Argentinean leaders of the punk rock/post punk movement of the late 80’s. Juanse, Pablo Memi, Paul Cano and Ruben Quiroga formed the band in 1986 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Later endorsed by legendary rock god Charly García, Los Ratones went on to record numerous albums and remain one of the most well known punk bands in Latin America.

After years of friendship and camaraderie, fate decided that it was time for these band members to unite and reminisce about the good ol’ days, while also offering new generations of a taste of rock and roll history. For me, the Ratones bring me back to a time of great musical exploration and learning. When I was younger, summer break was usually spent with friends finding new bands to listen to. Songs like “Rock del Gato” and “Caballos de Noche” from the Furtivos (1989) album always remind me of these fun times. No matter where you are now or where you are from, you owe it to yourself and our future generations to pass on these gems of Rock Nacional. I invite you to grab some friends –young and old- and come down to the State Theater on March 15 to enjoy a night of celebration, nostalgia and most importantly, a good dose of Rock Nacional! ¡Que viva el rock! █

Throughout a career spanning 11 studio albums and over twenty-five years in the music business, Los Ratones have reminded us how potent a frontman with swagger to spare can be. When you think of the Ratones, I bet you instantly think of lead singer Juanse and his “Jagger-esque” persona -and for good reason too, since Juanse does have moves like Jagger. Originally thought of as a Rolling Stones wannabe group, Los Ratones Paranoicos recorded their selftitled album in ‘86, which was far from sounding like the Stones. In 1995, the Rolling Stones came to Buenos Aires and the Ratones were the opening act at the

For tickets to this event visit our partners: www.tickeri.com.

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INDIE

Mexican Institute of Sound:

Mixes new with the old By: Juan Leon

KH: HOW DID MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF SOUND GET STARTED? MIS: Well, it’s basically myself. I started doing remixes for friends and later on I decided to start doing my own music. It was a process that I think is a little different from other projects. I started listening to a lot of music, got influences, instead of rehearsing and getting a band in shape. I released a record and after that I was like, “Oh, I guess I should put together a band and start playing live”. So I was going backwards from what bands usually do. KH: HOW DO YOU CREATE YOUR MUSIC? MIS: All my past records I did on a super old computer I just retired for the next album. The previous albums I’ve been using this old computer. I recorded with my cheap microphones and my keyboards. I use the Pro Tools system as my scissors and my editor. I cut samples. I created kind of a collage. I do a lot of samples and try to play instruments and make it sound like samples. KH: DID YOU GROW UP PLAYING ANY SPECIFIC INSTRUMENTS OR WERE YOU MOSTLY A DJ? MIS: I know how to play some instruments. Most of the time I play my keyboards and guitars. Some bass. Definitely I was more into the DJ thing growing up. But I think being a DJ is more of a talent than a skill so I think when you do music it’s important to have the idea to play. It doesn’t matter how good you are if you play the way you like.

Picture courtesy of Artisphere

he music of Mexican Institute of Sound, a one-man operation fronted by Camilo Lara (President of EMI Mexico), feels like a modern throwback. Traditional Mexican genres collide with hip-hop and dance grooves. Within a single song, tones range from playful to poignant. It was an honor to interview the man behind pieces like Alocatel, Escribeme Pronto and Sinfonia Agridulce, a mariachiaccented cover of The Verve’s Bittersweet Symphony. KH: WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? MIS: I grew up in Mexico City in two neighborhoods. I was born in Coyoacan, in the south of the city where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera lived. Then I moved to La Roma, which is near downtown. KH: Do you think where you grew up influenced the way you see music and the way you make music today? MIS: Yeah, totally. Actually the first record I did was trying to create kind of a postcard of what Mexico City is and to let people feel this Mexico that is not the Mexico from movies or the horrible Mexico City postcard that most people have in mind. Instead of that I have a regular life in a middle class home in Mexico that is pretty comfy. KH: So what are you working on these days? MIS: I just finished a new album [Politico] that will come out by the beginning of the summer. I’ve been working in LA with a great engineer— Robert Carranza. He’s worked with Beastie Boys and Beck. KH: I read that you describe your music as a clash between older traditional Mexican culture and what Mexico is heading towards, in terms of culture, more cosmopolitan. Could you talk a little bit about how you contrast the old and the new in your music? MIS: Sure. I like the roots— cumbia and for the next

album I’m listening to a lot of other rhythms like trio and banda from small towns in Mexico. I didn’t want to do that because that’s not what speaks to me. I think that has some moments of greatness but what speaks to me is the music I can hear and I can vibe. Sometimes that comes from other artists like Kraftwerk and The Clash or Animal Collective. I feel that I should do something like that and when I started creating music it ended up having this Mexican sound. I thought that was very nice because in this world where everything is pretty much standardized I think the only thing you have to be different from the rest is where you’re born. If I was born in Arizona I would have some barbecue sound but I was born in Mexico City and I have the cumbia and some rhythms that make me part of there. I feel proud of that.

KH: Do you have a particular audience in mind when you’re making your music? MIS: Oh no. Originally this was a project I started for me. I had my computer and I didn’t think people would listen to it. I feel the same now. I don’t know if I should speak to English speaking persons or Mexicans or people in France who don’t care about what I’m singing. It’s the same. Music should travel. If the idea is strong enough and you feel comfortable with it, it should travel. If it travels and connects with people it’s amazing. It should if it’s good. KH: What can we expect from your performance at Artisphere March 17th? MIS: It’s going to be a live show with the band I’ve been playing with some years now. I’m playing with a bass player and a drummer. It’s pretty wild. The whole idea is to create this kind of cross between a punk rock show and like some ghetto sound system. So it’s a pretty energetic show. We can say at least you’re going to dance and you’re going to have fun. █

Mexican Institute of Sound at Artisphere in Rosslyn, Virginia. SAT MARCH 17 / 8 PM $20/$18 for students/seniors To read the full interview, go to kestadc.com

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CUMBIA

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Photos courtesy of QORVIS

CIRCUS

By Maria Veronica Cevallos

tanding in the tradition of being “the greatest show on earth,” the Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey Circus brings us a show of high excitement aptly named “Fully Charged.” It has all the classic acts that one would expect at a circus with clowns, animal tamers and contortionists, yet at the same time, the show manages to amaze and captivate, taking them on a ride of fully charged fun. Audiences young and old will have no complaints about this majestic show. From the beginning, the audience is the main focus as the performers create an initial excitement about the show by meeting their fans in an all access pre-show, where the fans get to meet and interact with the show’s stars. You can take a picture with the stars of Clown Alley, have a mini juggling lesson with the Fusco brothers, talk about tigers with Taba, the animal trainer, try on costumes, or maybe even meet one of the many elephants in the show. At the true core of the show is flame-bearer and ringmaster Brian Crawford. This California native was

chosen as the 36th ringmaster, a job that has been in existence going back 141 years. His job as ringmaster is not to be dismissed as he leads the audience’s attention through the various and many acts that might be difficult to take in otherwise. Elephant and horse tamers, jugglers, high wire acts, clowns, aerial straps and Brian Miser, also known as “the Human Fuse” for his explosive, high risk act of flying through the air, are just some of the acts you can experience during this amazing show as led by charismatic Crawford. The amount of talent present in the ring is abundant and includes many Hispanic artists and performers like Tabayara “Taba” Maluenda, a Chilean known the world over for his remarkable ability to interact with exotic animals, and The Fusco Brothers, twin brothers from Argentina with a staggering ability to juggle solo and as a pair. One of the twins, Maximiliano Fusco, describes working for the circus as “the best job in the world” and life in the circus as nothing short of exciting and different. Although he is based out of Texas after moving to the US some 12 years ago, constant traveling, meeting all kinds of people from every corner of the world, excites this performer who says

he spends almost 11 months on the road touring with the circus. “Life in the circus is very different. When I go home after a tour, I get so bored and all I want to do is travel again.” To keep their amazing skill and develop their talent, Maximiliano says that they practice juggling 4 to 5 hours every day. As one of the top juggling acts in the world, the Fusco brothers juggle rings, balls, clubs, and other props with amazing precision while jumping, spinning and running. It’s a classic act that manages to still astound audiences because of the undeniable skill required to complete it with perfection. If you have never been to a circus, here’s your chance! The Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey presents Fully Charged will visit the DC metro area three times during March and April with shows at the Verizon Center, 1st Mariner Arena and the Patriot Center. █ For more information and tickets, please go to: www.verizoncenter.com www.patriotcenter.com www.baltimorearena.com

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TROPICAL

/ MARCH 2012

Pictures courtesy of Three Kings

By Gloria Turin

o doubt, many have experienced innovative salsa; however, nothing is quite as tasty as Salsa Rap. This is a concept that combines salsa with a touch of rap, hip-hop, R&B, and a touch of Latin Jazz. Huey Dunbar is a master of this type of salsa and for many years, his duty has been to take salsa to a different level with lyrics that stay in our hearts. Most of us recognize his name from his great hits but very little is known of his personal life. Eustace Dunbar IV, in the entertainment business known as “Huey Dunbar”, was born on May 15, 1974, and grew up in both New York City and Puerto Rico. His mother, an immigrant from Puerto Rico, was an aspiring opera singer who passed on her love of music to her son. His father, a native of Jamaica who enjoyed playing the conga drums, died when Dunbar was very young. Dunbar’s unlikely introduction to a career in music occurred while he was a student at Bayside High School in the borough of Queens in New York City. After seeing a flyer posted for a talent contest, Dunbar decided to enter by singing the song “Lately,” a hit by the R & B group Jodeci. Dunbar’s rendition of the song impressed one of the judges, Latin music producer Sergio George. When George asked Dunbar whether he sang in Spanish, however, Dunbar

encountered his first setback. Not having spoken much Spanish while he was growing up, Dunbar decided to throw himself into learning the language so that he could pursue his contact with George. The hard work paid off as Huey’s soulful vocals impressed George enough to take him under his wing and launching Huey’s career as a singer. Hailed by many critics as the future of salsa music, Huey Dunbar helped to revitalize the genre and introduce it to a new generation during his stint as the lead singer of Dark Latin Groove (DLG). The group’s three albums gained DLG a large following not only among salsa music fans but listeners across the musical spectrum as well. After winning two Billboard Latin Music Awards, DLG amicably split up in 2000 and Dunbar began a promising solo career. His first album, “Yo Si Me Enamore”, was released in 2001 and earned a gold record for selling over a half-million copies. With an English-language album in the works in 2003, Dunbar looked forward to branching out into new musical styles. His deep love for music kept him going to turn his love into a career. Being a soloist also gave Huey the opportunity to pair up in duets with different artists. On “Yo Sí Me Enamoré,” Huey sings a duet with beautiful Mexican superstar Lucero who is loved throughout the world as both a telenovela actress and a singer. The album features two versions of the scintillating

duet, “Lo Siento,” in pop/ballad and the other in salsa. The best songwriters and producers in the business were brought in for the project, including Kike Santender, Omar Alfanno, Sergio George, Ray Contreras and Jimmy Greco, Gustavo Marquez, Alejandro Jaen, and Fernando Osorio. At his concerts, Huey Dunbar is simply wonderful, taking over the audience with his overflowing joy, rhythm and energy. His privileged voice is impressively clear and puts everyone to dance with hits like “Juliana,” “La quiero a morir,” “Volvere,” “Que locura enamorarme de ti” and others. He has also released countless successful duets with Eddie Santiago, and some other DLG’s such as “No morira,” “Me va extrañar,” “Todo mi corazon,” and “Si tu no estas” all accompanied by his orchestra. Huey Dunbar promises to continue his duty on the stage this March 25, 2012 at the Salsa Room. Be ready to dance and sing the night away, you can’t miss this! Want more details on this concert and others? Please visit www.kestadc.com. █

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Pictures courtesy of Migo Productions

URBAN

By Christina Cortés

sk any bachatero out there if they know who Aventura or Xtreme are and they’re sure to answer with “Claro que si!” – ask them who Vena is and they may respond with “Quien?” accompanied by an equally perplexed look on their face. Comprised of former Aventura members Max and Lenny Sanots, and former Xtreme member Steve Styles, Vena is different from other new bachata groups in that these three already have experience in the music industry and have been a part of some of the genre’s most popular acts. Although the up-and-coming group Vena is not yet a household name, their enticing music with its unique sound have all the right elements for success and will quickly garner this group the attention they deserve. Since Aventura’s heart-breaking split that left fans all over in tears, life has gone on for the Santos brothers and the former members have continued moving forward with their musical careers. Max went on to launch Max Musick, his own label which has various different Latin music artists under its direction. He also continued with his passion of playing bachata music. Lenny, also known as Len Melody, has continued performing as well, joining with several other acts, none of which he still participates in today. Created in early

2011 by brothers Lenny and Max Agende Santos, Vena is their latest musical venture. Originally just Lenny and Max’s project, Vena featured a few other members who have since left the group. The group released tracks such as “Always” and “You & Me,” but received little response from potential fans. It was clear that something was still missing from the equation. In October 2011, the brothers found exactly what they had been in need of when former Xtreme member Steve Styles joined Vena, rounding out the trio. As a fellow New York-born Dominican with a love of music pulsing through his veins, Styles fits in nicely with Lenny and Max, complimenting their musical abilities with his great vocal talent. First making himself known when Xtreme released the single “Shorty, Shorty” off their album Haciendo Historia in late 2007, Steve Styles shares an urban edge to his bachata style with the Santos brothers. He has a hypnotizing voice that draws you in and won’t let go, adding exactly the right element the group needed to create their captivating sound. Since the three have joined forces and begun collaborating, Vena has released the single “Señora” off their anticipated first album D’Element Project, which will be available for purchase later this year. “Señora” has already made waves in the bachata world and received airplay on radio stations across the

country. The song has a noticeable urban-pop sound to it while still maintaining the traditional elements of bachata without sounding too forced. Steve Styles’ vocals flow smoothly with the rhythm as he sings the love song about how he can’t forget a special someone – or her kisses. The three also released a preview of their upcoming single, “Ya No,” on YouTube. The short sample is a great break-up ballad and is once again highly intriguing thanks to relatable lyrics, great instrumentals, and that oh so easy to fall in love with voice of Steve Styles. There’s only one minute of the song previewed, but even that’s enough to get it stuck in your head and be ready to hear more. It is clear from the few tracks they have already released that Vena has a massive amount of potential to become the next bachata sensation in the coming months. Their upcoming album D’Element Project will surely have more great songs like “Señora” that I’m sure will not be anything less than amazing. Though an unexpected mix, Lenny, Max, and Steve work together in perfect harmony and have managed to make a sound all their own. Be sure not to miss out on their March 17th performance at Love Nightclub, hosted by the one and only MIGO Productions! █

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KESTADC.COM GALLERY Brazilian Carnaval Party @ Shadowroom 02.17.12

Opening Viva Fridays @ Agua Viva 02.17.12

Valentine’s Party @ Irirs 02.14.12

Luis Miguel del Amargue @ Cococabana 02.10.12

Spain Arts & Culture’s Spring/Summer 2012 catalog @ Ebajada de España 02.08.12

February Nightlife

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KESTA HAPPENING DC FEATURED EVENTS Thur 02.23 - Sun 03.25 Sat 03.03 Fri 03.09 Sat 03.10 Thur 03.15 Fri 03.16 Sat 03.17 Sat 03.17 Fri 03.23 Fri 03.23 Fri 03.23 Sat 03.24 Sun 03.25 Sun 04.01 Thur 04.26 Fri 05.11 - Sat 05.12 Sun 05.20 Mon 06.10

Frida Kahlo: Her Photos @ Artisphere Ballet Folklorico de Antioquia, Colombia @ GMU Center of the Arts Romeo Santos @ Patriot Center Tonazo Peruano: La Hora Loca @ Eden Ratones Paranoicos, Violadores, & Riff @ The State Theatre Agrupacion Marilyn @ V# Lounge Mexican Institute of Sound @ Artisphere Vena @ Love Night Club Rakim y Ken-Y @ Galaxy Nightclub Fatboy Slim @ 930 Club Hector Tricoche @ V3 Lounge Montez de Durango @ El Boqueron II Huey Dunbar @ The Salsa Room Eva Ayll贸n @ The State theatre Arcangel @ Ibiza M3 Rock Festival @ Merriweather Post Pavllion Argentine Festival 2012 @ Thomas Jefferson Theater Foster The People @ Merriweather

For more information and many more events go to KESTADC.COM

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FEATURE

Pictures courtesy of Artisphere

By Rosario Garcia

any of us are familiar with Mexican painter Frida Kahlo’s work and tumultuos life story from either being exposed to her works in popular culture or from the self titled 2002 movie “Frida,” famously portrayed by Mexican beauty Salma Hayek. However we came to learn of Frida, no U.S. venue has featured Frida Kahlo quite like this. Artisphere, an Arlington and Washington, D.C. based live artist, music, art, film, and dance venue, is the first and only U.S. venue to present Frida Kahlo: Her Photos, the celebrated artist’s life revealed through personal photograhs sealed until 2007 and never seen in the United States before. Frida Kahlo’s (1907-1954) extraordinary life and iconic biographical paintings have earned her international fame in the world of modern art. Upon Kahlo’s death in 1954, more than 6,500 personal photographs and items belonging to her and husband/artist Diego Rivera were sealed and put in storage. In 2007, this collection was opened and Mexican photographer and curator Pablo Ortiz Monasterio inventoried and catalogued 259

images to create the Frida Kahlo: Her Photos exhibition. The exhibit, which will display these private photos for the world to see, will also feature various musicians such as the Mexican Institute of Sound and filmmaker Robert Rodriguez’s work, which together are sure to bring you a Mexican culture sucker punch. The exhibit opened on Thursday, February 23rd and will be on display through Sunday, March 25th, 2012. You may ask yourself what can you possibly find out about the famous artist’s life in pictures that you haven’t already read about or seen in her many biographical paintings? In this case the popular adage of, “A picture is worth a thousand words”, is very true. Kahlo’s work and travels allowed her to become acquainted with many important figures of her time period. This collection of photographs exposes her connections with friends, lovers, and the people she admired from afar such as Russian Marxist revolutionary Leon Trotsky, American photographers Edward Weston, Charles Sheeler, Alfred Stieglitz and Tina Modotti; Mexican revolutionary general Emiliano Zapata; American artists Georgia O’Keeffe and Ione Robinson; and actress Dolores del Río. >>>>>>>>>>

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The Cultural Attaché of Mexico to the United States Alejandra de la Paz adds, “This amazing selection of photos provides an exciting and rare opportunity to get a personal glimpse into one of Mexico’s most internationally renowned artists; the Embassy of Mexico and its Cultural Institute are delighted to partner with Artisphere to bring the exhibition to Arlington.” Pablo Ortiz Monasterio has arranged the photographs into six thematic areas that align with periods in her life: The Origins, The Blue House, The Broken Body, Loves, Photography and Diego’s Eye. These facsimile photographs come from the collection of the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán, Mexico. They are reproductions of the original photographs owned by the Frida Kahlo Museum and Banco de México, Fiduciary in the Trust of the Museums Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. Artisphere has produced this exhibition in collaboration with the Frida Kahlo Museum (Coyoacán, Mexico), Museo Diego Rivera

Anahuacalli (Coyoacán, Mexico), the Embassy of Mexico, the Mexican Cultural Institute and Arlington County, with additional support from the Rosslyn Business Improvement District. This international collaboration was initially facilitated by the Arlington Sister City Association. This exhibit is an opportunity to look into a famous artist’s life through unfiltered eyes. Kahlo grew up during the Mexican Revolution, survived polio, and survived a bus accident that left her in a full body cast for three months with permanent injuries and the inablity to have children. She filtered her pain and suffering into art and played an important role in the art movement which included such famous counterparts as Jose Clemente Orozco and Alfaro Siqueiros, whose legacy still lives on in Mexico today. In addition to Frida Kahlo: Her Photos, Artisphere will present an array of complementary programming ranging from music concerts to film to family

programming. Special highlights will be concerts by the renowned Mexican Institute of Sound on Saturday, March 17 at 8pm. The celebration also includes a film fest by Mexican-American filmmaker Robert Rodriguez on Wednesdays throughout March (featuring El Mariachi, Desperado, From Dusk Til Dawn, and more). For a complete list, visit www.artisphere.com and be sure to not miss out on this great opportunity to see Frida Kahlo’s through her very own photographs. █

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Special Hours* (in addition to regular operating hours) for Frida Kahlo: Her Photos: Feb 23-March 25, 2012 Mon: Closed Tue-Fri: 4pm-11pm Sat: Noon-11pm Sun: Noon-5pm *Open later pending programmed events For more infirmation: www.artisphere.com

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FOOD

By: Marco Rossy

he phrase “gourmet restaurant” is thrown around a lot these days. So many places in the DMV are clamoring for this title. The reality is that after a usually skimpy meal in many gourmet restaurants, the first thing on your mind is a fast food run. The Parva, located in the exclusive Bethesda, MD community, definitely does not fall into this category. “We wanted to feature Colombian food at a higher level, but we could not lose the hearty portions that we are used to,” said Edwin Balcazar. Edwin and Juan Carlos are owners, brothers, and restaurateurs. The Parva has been serving up South American fusion cuisine for six months. The emphasis is on the owners’ native Colombia, but the dishes rotate countries every four months. “Our most popular dish is Para Picar,” explains Edwin. “Guests love the variety and dipping sauces.” This is bar food, if bar food wore a top hat

and a monocle. It features a nice presentation of sweet potato fries, french fries, yucca, creole potatoes, sliced beef, Colombian chorizo, chicharron, morcilla (blood sausage) and four dipping sauces. The bite-sized creole potatoes are imported from Colombia, and they are delightful. The soft yellow mash is encrusted by a crunchy-salty potato skin. Another favorite is the shrimp ceviche, which is always made fresh to order. Patrons are asked to wait between 15-20 minutes while their shrimp is bathed in a tomato-based lemon juice marinade. Once the process is complete, mounds of shrimp battle for space in a large martini glass. Sliced avocado lies on top to break things up a bit. “We have our twist on the famous Bandeja Paisa,” said Edwin. Most people who have spent any time in Colombia can speak with nostalgia of this favorite comfort food. Edwin and Juan Carlos’ version features a plaintain wafer, Colombian chicharron, white rice, and chorizo brunoise, served with a bowl of stewed beans with hogado paisa. A fresh salad and arepa tag team to add variety to the fried, meaty textures. The decorative drizzle of vinaigrette dressing reminds you that you are in a comfortable elegant setting. Can a plate of food be sexy? One might think so after this. For those who didn’t fall victim to a food comma yet, there’s dessert. La Parva has its take on the ubiquitous tres leches. In this adaptation, bite-size pieces of sponge cake swim lazily in a sweet blend of condensed milk, cream, and milk. It is served in an elegant martini glass. The bar features drinks such as the Colombian Mojito, Argentinian Glory, and Canelazo Colombiano.

The Colombian Mojito is made with aguardiente, mint, and lime juice. The Canelazo can be served as an after-dinner hot drink. It’s a sweet blend of aguardiente and cinnamon syrup. A chic lounge is on the second floor of the restaurant. Anyone who’s been to an upscale Miami hotel lounge will tell you that the designers spent some time there getting ideas. Everything is white, including the lighting, bar, couches, tables, and uniforms. The feeling is fresh, hip, crisp, and clean. The lounge features live Brazilian music twice monthly on Sundays, and DJ entertainment on most weekend nights. Upon entering the restaurant, a grand chandelier hangs over a backlit menu. The restaurant follows the contemporary clean feeling of the lounge. The recessed lighting gives a relaxing touch. The track lighting adds modern sophistication. The walls are adorned by contemporary art pieces. The Parva is a result of four years of planning and research. A traveling chef visited South American countries experiencing and studying the different cuisines. The chef took the best and most popular dishes, and combined them with innovative presentation. At least three generations of chefs inspire the cuisine. “I’m the head chef, and JC runs the front of the house,” said Edwin. “Our mother works in the kitchen with us. She is our support. My grandparents were bakers and my parents had restaurants in Colombia. We have it in our blood.” █ The Parva Restaurant 7904 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814. www.theparva.com

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Maceio, Alagoas

Rio de Janeiro

Columbus Lighth ouse

By: Aline Barros

“I LIVE IN A TROPICAL COUNTRY. BLESSED BY GOD AND BEAUTIFUL BY NATURE,” THE BRAZILIAN SINGER AND COMPOSER JORGE BEN JOR WROTE IN 1969, AND THESE FEW WORDS WOULD LATER BECOME ONE OF THE COUNTRIES ANTHEMS. IN ONE SONG, HE WAS ABLE TO DESCRIBE THE BEAUTY THAT BRAZIL TRULY WAS AND STILL IS. I hope to take you on a magical trip, filled with fun in places dreams are made of. Brazil offers so much to see and taste that it is

incredibly difficult to choose a starting point. We will travel together from North to South of Brazil, learning about the people, rhythms, and mouth-watering cuisines. The biggest country in South America, the fifth largest country by total area, and ranked as the sixth world’s strongest economy, lives up to Ben Jor’s words. Large forests cover over 58% of Brazil’s landmass, including the luscious and exuberant Amazon rainforest. Portuguese navigator and explorer Pedro Alvarez Cabral had absolutely no intentions of reaching any place besides India, but his 13 ships sailed far enough into the Atlantic Ocean to reach a place, which he thought was a big island. After some exploration,

the Portuguese navigator realized the extension of its coast and decided to send someone to notify the Portuguese crown of their discovery. Today, Brazil is best known for its soccer legacy, and the carnaval that we celebrate every February as if it were our first time, always full of energy, love, and creativity. Besides the rainforest, Brazil also has the largest fluvial island in the world, located in the North part of Brazil; Marajó Island is around 80 kilometers (49miles) from the capital Belém, in the state of Pará. A unique place where tourists will experience an island bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, the Amazon and Tocantins rivers. There we find beautiful and almost untouched beaches such as Pesqueiro,

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Barra Velha and Joanes. The cuisine is equally famous for its Caldeirada Marajoara, a dish served with the region’s most tasteful fish and shrimp, as well as, enjoy the freshness of our Açaí. The famous round fruit, when properly blended, is served in gourds with tapioca, and honey. Now we should stop in the Northeast region, where the coast has its enchantment diversified by dunes, ponds, and beaches. Rio Grande do Norte is blessed by its nature and crystal clear waters, along with a complete touristic infrastructure full of hotels and restaurants. Make sure to stop at Genipabu, rent a bugue, and ride along the dunes to enjoy the true beauty this place offers. Alternatively, maybe we should go to Fortaleza to walk around the busy boardwalk filled with many choices of restaurants, bars and live music. There is entertainment for all ages, and while enjoying the cuisine ask for a Carne de Sol ao Forno, a steak especially prepared for Fortaleza’s tourists.

Sugar Loaf Mountain

all over the world. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places we will visit. There is a lot to see in this metropolis, so let us begin by The Corcovado Mountain where we get to experience what it is like to see Christ the Redeemer, and ride up to Sugar Loaf Mountain to admire the Bay of Guanabara.

Caldeirada Marajoara

Porto de Galinhas

Amazon River, Brazil

Sugar Loaf Mountain

Marajó Island

Carnival of Rio Carnival of Pernambuco

What about Maceio, in the state of Alagoas? We call it our Brazilian Caribbean because of its breathtaking clear ocean, and the beauty of Pajuçara, Ponta Verde, Praia do Francês (The French Beach), and Jatiúca. A typical day in Maceio would include a ride on a jangada, our boat transportation to enjoy a whole day at the natural pools in Pajuçara. Our magical trip to Brazil’s next stop is Porto de Galinhas, located in the South Coast of Pernambuco. Its natural beauty is to die for, with long stretches of white sand, warm and clear beaches that please visitors throughout the year. Pernambuco is also, where I used to spend most of my carnavals. The rhythms of Frevo,

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Genipabu

Mangu

and Maracatu were our only soundtrack, and they move the month of February in Olinda and Recife, some of the busiest cities during our carnaval. The carnaval parade takes you to different streets in the city, and the beat envelops each folião, we barely notice how much we jump, sing, or dance. Changing to an urban scenario, our trip will go to Rio de Janeiro, also known as the “Cidade Maravilhosa” or wonderful city. Rio is one of the top Brazilian destinations for tourists from

The carioca is hospitable, has a swagger, and loves life to the fullest. Rio de Janeiro is also the scene of a great spectacle that happens in the sambodromo, our samba school parade full of colors, costumes and art. The city was also voted the Cultural Capital of Brazil with more than 80 museums, and a variety of entertainment opportunities such as art exhibitions, movies and musical theaters. This is the Rio de Janeiro of Tom Jobim who composed the Girl from Ipanema, Vinicius de Moraes “our little poet” who wrote poems and songs inspired by it, and where Carmem Miranda started her career as a singer and actress. Our trip will end in Porto Alegre, in the South of Brazil, with its European influence the capital of Rio Grande do Sul is modern, and situated on the shores of Lake Guaíba, with 72km of river shore. The Gaúcho has our best and traditional Brazilian churrasco, and the city is known for its variety of entertainment choices among them bars, pubs, and cafes.

There is no doubt that Brazilian culture is very rich with very distinctive regions. These few paragraphs will never be able to show all that the country has to offer, but one thing is certain: It is a culture that goes beyond just soccer and carnaval, and a place that knows how to make its visitors fall in love with it instantly, and for years to come. █

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

HEALTH

/ MARCH 2012

by Jenny O

anuary is long gone, it’s already March and despite going to the gym religiously nothing is happening anymore. The first couple of weeks into your New Year’s resolution you saw some quick results, but maybe not the drastic changes you were hoping for. So I ask you, what’s in your fridge and kitchen? - Maybe you’re not seeing any results because you have not made necessary changes to your eating habits. I have always mentioned to my clients and students that the success of a good Fitness Training Program is determined nearly 80% percent on what you eat. You must understand that in order for your body to transform into that hot beach body you are looking for, you must feed it regularly with the right healthy foods. Continue reading to learn some tips on how to jumpstart your body to become a calorie burning machine.

1) Clean out your fridge –The first and most important

thing I want you to do today is to go clean out your fridge and kitchen of certain foods that you should not be eating, such as:

All products made with white flour or corn flour, this includes all baked goods and pasta. All products containing white sugar or high fructose corn syrup, this includes baked goods, sugary-boxed breakfast cereal, soda pop, bottled sport drinks, and candy. Potatoes in all forms, this includes potato chips, french fries, hash browns, potato salad, and baked potatoes. All white rice and rice cakes. All foods containing hydrogenated vegetable oils. These are the shortening used in ALL baked goods, non-dairy creamers, “creamy” peanut butter, many breads, boxed breakfast cereals, and margarines. Hydrogenated vegetable oils are in nearly anything that has been deep-fried.

2) Make a weekly grocery list, recommended choices are: Fresh Fruits, including apples, oranges, and kiwi. Fresh Vegetables, including celery, green beans, spinach, carrots, salad mix, broccoli, squash, and yams. To round up your healthy shopping list, don’t forget to get: - Ground Turkey - Sea Food - Chicken - Lean Red Meat (Single portion) - Natural Peanut Butter - Low Fat Cottage Cheese - Raw Walnuts - Raw Almonds

- Dry Roasted Peanuts - Macadamia Nuts - Skim Milk - Whole Wheat Bread - Oatmeal - Barley - Brown Rice - Eggs

**Remember that my tips are only a guide to a healthier diet. Everyone has different needs and you should check with your doctor before starting any fitness program or making drastic changes to your diet.

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/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ MARCH 2012

STYLE

by Amanda Landrian

As these (luckily) mild winter months continue to fly by, I get more and more anxious for warmer weather and the spring fashion that comes along with it! Take a look in any storefront window these days and it’s obvious that the trend of the season is bright, bold colors. The best part of all? You don’t have to wait until spring to begin adding these pops of color to your wardrobe. So turn up the brights and add a little color to your life with these three standout hues. █

Cobalt Blue

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>>>> >>>>> 10. Tote, BE & D, $398.00, shopbop.com | 11. Cuffs, H&M, $17.95; hm.com | 12. Belt, asos, $10.74, asos.com | 13. Ring, Vince Camuto, $48.00; vincecamuto.com | 14. Flats, Pilcro, $138.00; anthropologie.com | 15. Platform wedge, Aldo, $99.95; Nordstrom.com | 16. Cardigan, Free People, $168.00; freepeople.com | 17. Jeans, BDG, $39.99; urbanoutfitters.com | 18. Blouse, Zara, $49.90; zara.com

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ MARCH 2012

KESTA GIRL OF THE MONTH

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Hometown: Baltimore Hobbies: Boating, hot yoga and running Favorite Movie: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Staring Marilyn Monroe Favorite Drink: Wine Favorite Food: Italian Photographer: Cameron (DCProstudio.com)

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/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

LOCAL TALENT

/ MARCH 2012

by Rosario Garcia

ita “Nebsi” Camacho is a local tattoo and graffiti artist based out of the DC area. Hailing from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, she is no stranger to letting her creative juices flow to produce her signature art pieces. A shy 8-year-old Nebsi would spend hours on end tracing cartoon characters to develop her talents and join in with her artistic cousins whom she idolized. At age 13, Nebsi was so dedicated to becoming an artist that she would not go a day without completing at least one drawing. It was her rule to draw a different doll every day. Indeed dolls remain a big influence in her art as evidenced by her tattoo station at Off Da Hook Tattoos in NE DC, which is covered in various doll figures spray-painted on the walls. When asked to describe her artistic style, Nebsi referred to it as “Street Art.” The style can include graffiti artwork, sculpture, stencil graffiti, sticker art, guerrilla art, and more. Her favorite by far is graffiti art, which she calls “exhilarating.” Nebsi tells us, “There’s something so exciting about holding a spray can in your hands and creating art in the most basic way, making it accessible to anyone that passes by.” Nebsi’s introduction to graffiti was at an early age. “I remember it so clearly, I was 5 years old

and riding a bus in TJ when I saw a young man tagging one of the bus seats with a black marker. He caught me looking at him and brought a finger to his lips and said ‘shh.’ I remember thinking, ‘Why is he asking me to be quiet, he’s just writing, how is that wrong?’ From that point on, I have always admired graffiti as an art form.” Nebsi continues, “I really had to struggle to get involved in graffiti art though. In high school, being a girl in Tijuana, it was not lady-like for me to go out with the boys and join them on their graffiti escapades. I always felt like an outsider.” However, Nebsi did not let that discourage her; instead, she began doing graffiti art on sketchbooks and anywhere else she could get her hands on. Nebsi jokes, “The first time I actually did graffiti on my own, it was such a rush…probably better than sex (laughs).” So how did Nebsi go from graffiti to canvas to tattooing? She beams, “I love creating art in any way, shape or form. I often recycle old furniture or empty containers to create art pieces. Tattooing is just another art form.” She shares that she first got her start in tattooing learning from close friends who were tattoo artists who taught her the basics. She quickly learned the most painful spots to get tattoos (the neck and anywhere directly on the bone in case you were wondering!) and she learned how to create custom designs. Our artist has over 17 tattoos, some of which she has completed herself.

Nebsi still struggles with getting her art known and appreciated. She admits, “Being here in the U.S. and in DC I’ve had to struggle because my English isn’t perfect and I’m very shy to approach new people. As time has passed, I have attended many events and people have started to recognize me and they approach me to invite me to participate in events. This has helped me to get over my shyness and face my fears.” We at Kesta look forward to seeing Nebsi continue to push the envelope and make her mark in the local art scene. You can contact Nebsi for a custom tattoo or find out about her local events by visiting her online at www.nebsione.com or on her Facebook page at NebsiOne. █

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RADIO PERSONALITY

César By: Christina Cortés

In a short ten years, he moved from his native El Salvador to come work in the United States for grocery store chain MegaMart’s marketing department, became a club host, has raised a family, maintained his longtime marriage to his high school sweetheart, and has become one of the most well known radio personalities in the DMV area. He is Cesar El Tra from La Nueva 87.7 FM and you probably listen to him every day from 3-7pm on your way home from work on La Zona, but I bet you didn’t know he had done all those other things, did you? Kesta Happening Magazine recently had the opportunity to sit down and catch up with Cesar and we learned a lot about who he is outside of the radio. Check it out!

KM: You moved to the United States in 2002. What made you decide to leave El Salvador to come here? C:While I was in El Salvador I was given the opportunity to come work here in the US in the marketing department doing promotions for MegaMart, so I said yes and we moved here. KM: How did you get the opportunity to work on the radio? C: In 2004, while I was working at MegaMart I started working as a club host as a part-time thing. While I was hosting one night in 2009 I met one of the owners of the radio station and he told me that I was really good at it. He liked me so much he gave me the opportunity to start working with him on the radio. KM: What is your favorite thing about working for La Nueva 87.7 FM? C: My favorite thing about working for La Nueva is when listeners call in and I get to connect with them and they say that we make their commute home or to work so much better than usual. KM: Whats a weirdest/funniest thing that has happen to while working at the radio? C: I left the microphone on during a song for about 3-4minutes and was talking to my co host about some very personal things. When I noticed that I had left the MIC on, I completly froze thinking that all that I was talking about had been heard by the public. For some very weird reason the sound board stopped working, so that conversation never went on air. Meaning.. God Loves Me! .. (laughs). KM: What are your favorite artists? C: Grupo Niche and Red Hot Chilli Peppers. I like everything but my favorite genres are alternative rock and salsa, thats what I enjoy the most.

KM: You have two daughters and one more on the way. How has becoming a father changed you? C: Becoming a father finally made me mature. It made me start to think like an adult and take things more seriously than I was before. KM: Right now immigration is a hot topic in political debates across the country. As someone that emigrated here not that long ago what do you think about all the anti-immigrant sentiment that is showing up across the country? C: I think that the politicians are stupid because if they were to legalize all the people that are in the country and are undocumented it would help stabilize the economy. We Latinos are the ones who work the hardest, we get paid the least, and we spend the most. KM: Although we still don’t know exactly who will be the Republican nominee for the presidential election in November, who do you think will win? C: Obama. I think Obama will win because regardless of who wins the Republican nomination they are based on anti-immigrant politics and I think Latinos will decide the next election because we are more powerful than ever. KM: Where do you hope to see yourself in five years from now? C: I still want to be doing the same thing. I love my job! The only thing I would like is to have a salsa show on Saturdays, but that’s it. KM: Do you have any advice for other people out there that want to get into the radio industry? C: Do it because you love the work. Not for fame, not for women – because a lot of people do it for those things. If you want to work in radio do it because its your passion. KM: Where can we party with you? C: You can party with me at The Palace in Woodbridge, Virginia on Thursdays; CoCoCabana in Hyattsville, Maryland on Fridays; and on Saturdays I’m at 90 Grados in Manassas, Virginia █

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

By: Nair Deheza

/ MARCH 2012

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KE? KESTA HOROSCOPE Aries: Fatboy Slim says:” Life is too short to be unhappy”-“That Old Pair of

Jeans”, Fatboy Slim

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GIVEAWAYS: Libra: Instituto Mexicano del Sonido says:”Que todos los hechos tienen un efecto” -“Microfono”, Instituto Mexicano del Sonido

Taurus: R.K.M y Ken-Y says:”No existe fortuna, fama o placer, que se compare por lo que sentimos por lo mas hermoso del universo...... la Mujer”

Scorpio: Sudacaya says:” No

-“Amarte es mi pasatiempo”, R.K.M. y Ken-Y

-“Maria (la wirsh)”, Sudacaya

Gemini: Agrupacion Marilyn says: “El que paga con traición solo así se quedara.” -“Te Falta”, Agrupacion Marilyn

Sagitarius: Eva Ayllón says:”El amor espera con las ansias del que quiere arribar y perdonar”

malgastes tu tiempo creyendo que la creación esta mal, la naturaleza es perfecta nada esta ahí degana”

-“Andar Andar”, Eva Ayllón

Cancer: Foster The People says:

“Sometimes life it takes you by the hair. It pulls you down before you know it”

Capricorn: Huey Dunbar says:” La

-“Helena Beat”, Foster The People

vida es dura y corta como una cancion que se hace de ella con las notas del amor” -”Si tu me amas”, Huey Dunbar

Leo: Mexican Instituto Of Sound

Aquarius: Romeo says:”Una lengua

says:”Ponte tus tennis y saca a bailar a dos señoritas que tengan bigotito pa’ que a una la puedas besar” -“Microfono”,

venenosa es más mortal que un cuchillo” -“Que se mueran”, Romeo

Mexican Institute of Sound

Virgo: Montez de Durango says: ”Chiquita no seas ingrata y no seas tan testaruda” -“La Piojosa”, Montez de Durango

Pisces: Hector Tricoche says: ”No dejes que rumores ni los cuentos de la gente entren en tu corazón que es envidia lo que tienen” --“Lobo Domesticado”, Hector Tricoche

Download and install a free QR code reader for your phone 1. Open the QR code reader application 2. Take picture / scan the QR code with your mobile device 3. The code willl take you to the Win Tickets Page for a chance to win 4. THE FIRST PEOPLE TO ANSWER THE QUESTION CORRECTLY ON THE WIN TICKETS PAGE WINS TICKETS TO CONCERT. Good Luck!

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