4
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
May
6 ROCK
Babasonicos
ISSUE # 14
7 TROPICAL Oscar D’Leon
8 URBAN
De La Ghetto
9 SPORTS
UFC on Fuel
22
11 BALLET
La Nueva Noche Latina
12 KESTADC.COM GALLERY Photos of concerts and DC nightlife
13 UPCOMING EVENTS
Calendar of upcoming events
14
14 FEATURE
Tego Calderón
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/9
17 FOOD
SPORTS
La Limeña
From Left:
Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone The Korean Zombie Dustin Poirier Jeremy Stephens
8
By Juan Leon
IMILAR TO FOOTBALL, THE UFC SERVES UP A DYNAMIC COMBINATION OF SKILLED ATHLETES, VIOLENCE, EXOTICISM (FEW SINGLE SPORTS LEAGUES IN THE WORLD ARE AS DIVERSELY REPRESENTED AS THE UFC’S ROSTER), AND UNPARALLELED THRILLS. Mixed martial arts’
ascendance has been so rapid and forceful, traditionalist boxing purists—feeling the threat to boxing’s stature—have felt compelled to repeatedly attack the (relatively) new sport. This May, the UFC (almost synonymous with mixed martial arts to casual fans) returns to the Washington DC metro area.
18
The Diamond versus The Korean Zombie. The nicknames of fighters Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier and “The Korean Zombie” Chang-Sung Jung alone are a fine illustration of the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s (UFC) appeal. May 15th, 2012 these two featherweight contenders will face off on UFC on Fuel TV 3 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia for a possible chance at the 145-pound title currently held by Jose Aldo. Aldo is expected to defend his title at UFC 149 July 21st, 2012 at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta.
Photos courtesy of Monumental Sports
9
18 MI PAIS Argentina
7 Poirier (seen most recently in a cameo appearance on MTV’s mixed martial arts reality show “Caged” and documentary film “Fightville”) and the South Korean Chang-Sung Jung are both undefeated in the UFC. The Diamond is 12-1 in his career while The Korean Zombie is 15-3. UFC on Fuel TV 3 features other excellent and potentially exciting match-ups besides the main event. Coming off a loss against Nate Diaz, 155 pounder Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone faces off against Jeremy Stephens. Stephens is coming off a loss to the dynamic Anthony Pettis (if you have yet to see Pettis’ off-the-cage kick against current UFC lightweight champion Ben Henderson, start googling). Meanwhile 185 pounders Tom Lawlor (known to sport fierce muttonchops at times) and solid Canadian veteran Jason Macdonald are scheduled for a middleweight bout. Fighting by way of Richmond, Virginia, Ultimate Fighter (TUF) winner Amir Sadollah faces off against Jorge Lopez. Some may remember Cody Mckenzie from the Ultimate Fighter reality show. His remarkable winning percentage and proficiency with the guillotine submission earned his particular method of pulling off the maneuver the name “Mckenzie-tine”.
20 HEALTH
Know your numbers
21 STYLE
Two bantamweight match-ups open up the prelim card with Mexico’s Alex Soto set to fight Azamat Gashimov (making his UFC debut) and longtime MMA veteran Jeff Curran taking on Brazilian fighter Johnny Eduardo. Decorated wrestler and grappler Kamal Shalrous faces off against Rafael Dos Anjos who is coming off a loss against fellow Brazilian Gleison Tibau.
Blazin’ Blazers
The UFC has held other successful events in the Washington DC Metro area including at the Verizon center in October 2011 and a sold out show at the Patriot Center in January 2010. Fun Fact for fans in the area: UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones is the younger brother of Baltimore Ravens lineman Arthur Jones
22 KESTA GIRIL
Tickets for UFC on Fuel TV 3 are on sale now. Tickets start at just $44 and are available at the Patriot Center box office, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Don’t miss out on this exciting event! █
Kinsey Elizabeth
25 LOCAL TALENT David Camero
26 VENUE
The Palace
17
6
11
27 RADIO PERSONALITY Chris Hypnotyc
27 KESTA LIKES
Our top likes of the month
PUBLISHER: Media644 / DIRECTOR: Juan Luis Gonzalez / EDITOR: Amanda Landrian, Rosario Garcia DESIGN: Miriam Jave / WEB & TECHNOLOGY: Javier Gonzalez / WRITERS: Maria Veronica Cevallos, Christina Cortés,
Ellen Flores, Rosario Garcia, Daniela Guillen, Juan Leon, Manu Mayor, Jenny Osoria, Gloria Turin, Nadia Quiroga PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jose Acha, William Espinoza, Harold Reynold SALES: Jose Acha, William Espinoza / CONTACT US: info@kestamag.com, www.kestadc.com, tel: 202 643 0555
29 KE?
Win tickets to Tego Calderón & Joan Sebastian / Pepe Aguilar Concert
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/5
6
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
ROCK The band took their time releasing their next album, “Jessico,” in 2001. It was not a moment too soon as they earned “Album of the Year.” Dargelos told reporters that the album had a “very romantic feel. Not the same torture and perversity found in previous albums. In Jessico, the types of love are more relaxed and instead of being victims, they promote the effects of seduction.” Hello! You had me at seduction! The album was also nominated for Best Rock Album in the Latin Grammys. Babasónicos didn’t stop there; their next album, “Infame,” sealed their provocative and elusive sound. With song lyrics like “El camino a la fama, no significa nada, si no hay una mission. Cual es? Hacerte muy putita,” or “Estoy mirando a tu novia, y ella me gusta y yo a ella también…y que?,” the contradiction of incendiary lyrics paired with slow ballads, and even a bolero sónico, set Babasónicos high above the rest. The album resulted in various re-edits for various countries including Mexico, United States, Chile, and Spain, and resulted in multiple national awards. The band has managed to stay fresh and relevant to their fans using various techniques to involve their fans in their music. They recently launched a Facebook contest debuting their new video for the song “Tormento” from their latest album “A Proposito.” They urged fans to watch the video and then submit their theories on how the story should end. The band promised the winning entry would result in the chosen ending for their mini-episode. The video currently shows the band performing amongst dinosaur PCs and computer chips. Babasonico’s don’t seem to rely on sneaky or over the top publicity stunts, announcing the contest via one simple tweet on their twitter account. By Rosario Garcia
abasónicos is an Argentinean band of many contradictions. They have a somewhat mainstream pop-rock sound, yet their topics can be taboo and even a little scandalous. They write great smooth romantic ballads that, upon closer listen, are about social unrest, cheating lovers, or masturbation. Over the years, they have also devised ways to get their music out there by producing one-of-a-kind music videos that resemble mini-series or web-episodes in a surreal reality.
in a similar crashing manner as how Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” became an anthem to the jock and cheerleader rejects of the 90’s grunge movement.
The band name Babasónicos is equally oxymoronic. Baba derives from “Sai Baba,” the Indian guru and saint, while “Sonicos” is said to come from The Jetsons, an 80’s space-age cartoon sitcom whose Spanish version is called, “Los Supersónicos.” The Buenos Aires band made up of Adrián “Dárgelos” Rodríguez (lead vocals), Diego “Uma” Rodríguez (guitar, vocals), Diego “Uma-T” Tuñón (keyboardist and founder), Diego “Panza” Castellano (drummer), and Gustavo “Tuta” Torres (Bass), formed in the 90’s and quickly became a banner group of the “sonic” underground movement in Argentina.
Perhaps being exposed to such diverse musical styles helped shape Babasónicos into a band that could mesh any musical style. For their second album, “Trance Zomba,” released in 1994, they joined forces with DJ Peggynn and fearlessly introduced a mix of hip-hop, soul, pop, and even disco, to their repertoire. The risk paid off big time, and the Argentineans loved them even more.
The bands initial goal was to create a “New Wave” style in Spanish that wouldn’t follow in the footsteps of other Argentinean bands of the time. Their big break came in 1992, when their song “De-Generacion” hit the airwaves and became a loud, angsty anthem for Argentine teenagers;
However, Babasónicos debut album “Pasto” was anything but a reject. It was edited by Sony Music Argentina and featured collaborations with Gustavo Cerati (Soda Stereo) and Daniel Melero (Los Encargados). Following the album’s release, Babasónicos quickly went on tour with Soda Stereo during their “Obras Cumbres” tour, gaining notoriety. They were soon sought after openers for international artists like INXS, Soul Asylum, and Depeche Mode.
By their third album, “Dopadromo,” released in 1996, Babasónicos was ready to leave the comfort of Argentina and head to the United States and Latin America to gather a following. Their next big break came when they were offered an opening slot for U2 in River stadium a few years after Dopadromo was released. They then decided to cut ties with their record label and start their own Bultaco Records, and quickly released a group of B-sides from their existing material.
One thing is for sure, whoever enters the contest better have a very good imagination! In one Babasónicos video, “Microdancing,” an elaborate 60’s style electronics store featuring the band members as sales clerks ends in them breaking into spontaneous “microdancing,” while the store transforms into a nightclub that starts raining stuffed and foam animals until they are covered in them from head to toe. Um… yeah. Also if you are afraid of clowns, DO NOT watch the video for “Las Demas,” which features a wedding where a beautiful bride ties the knot with a potential hubby dressed as a clown while the clown guests watch. Creeeppy. There’s no doubt that Babasónicos closed a banner year in 2011 having released their latest album, “A Proposito,” and completing a very successful world tour through Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, United States, France, Spain, and England. With over 20 years of career, Babasónicos also received a Golden Notebook award (being the first rock band to receive it in Argentina) for their digital sales. The band has kept the momentum going performing in the city of Quilmes, Argentina during a free show to a group of 30,000 delirious fans who sang along to each classic song. Do yourself a huge favor and don’t miss Babasónicos performing on May 24th at the newly renovated Howard Theater in DC! █
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/7
TROPICAL
By: Gloria Turin
His childhood was like any other child growing in Latin America, with certain economic constraints, however, that did not stop young Oscar from playing contently in the streets, generate a percussion instrument using his school desk, or just singing wherever he wandered. As a teenager, the music bug bit Oscar hard and he started a “bonche” (party) on the street with his friends from the parish. They would use any corner of the parish as a backdrop as they wrote music with one another. But not everything was partying and bochinche, training was also essential and young Oscar was an excellent student, learning to master his instruments and music by observing others. In the early 70s, Oscar began a relentless pursuit of his musical career with the boys in his parish. They formed a group which they called “Golden Star”. Unfortunately this project did not last long and later they regrouped with other musicians to form “Los Psicodelicos” only to fail once more. However, as fate would have it, Oscar was destined for greatness. He met arranger and composer Victor Mendoza, who had a more stable band and Oscar decided to join. It is Victor who suggested the stage name of Oscar D’leon while Oscar was still driving a bus and working as a taxi driver in Caracas. In fact, it’s possible that anyone who hailed a cab in Caracas over thirty years ago may have been witness to a young driver who was known for singing... ALOT. It was hilw driving a cab that Oscar D’Leon met percussionist Jose Rodriguez and invited him to join the group, “El Clan de Victor”. By this time Oscar was already performing under the stage name Oscar D’Leon. Shortly after, Oscar’s success came with the orchestra “Dimension Latina”, where he started to like the big crowds. The result was that this orchestra became one
of the most important in the Caribbean and conquered demanding markets in the United States. At this point, Oscar D’Leon had become the showman of “Dimension Latina”, his charisma, his gift of Sonero and entertainment to dance and sing quickly captured the attention of the public and international musicians alike. Despite the undisputed success of the orchestra, internal problems became evident and caused the separation of Oscar D’Leon. Eventually, Oscar formed his own orchestra, which he named, “Oscar D’Leon and his Salsa Mayor.” This was definitely the right move for him, and Oscar’s career began a meteoric rise. It seemed that nothing could stop him and he quickly conquered the Caribbean, Central America, South America, North America, Japan and Europe. Today, he has captivated the markets of 144 plus countries, something admirable for this humble Venezuelan. Also, he managed to rub shoulders with famous artists such as his good friend Celia Cruz, Cheo Feliciano, Jose Alberto “El Canario”, Sergio Vargas, La India, and Tito Puente with whom he recorded the famous song “Hay que trabajar”. Now with nearly 30 albums under his belt, Oscar has toured over 100 countries on all continents and performed before sold-out audiences in the most famous venues in the world, such as Madison Square Garden in New York. Oscar D’leon is more than a musician, salsero, an sonero. He is a living representation that all dreams are achievable and that to lose the humility of a man only leads to boredom of the spirit. This Salsero will be perfoming Sunday, May 6, 2012 at the Salsa Room in Arlington. Oscar D’Leon is a living music legend and a must-see for his breathtaking two-hour stage show. A real top-notch event, not only for Salseros pero pa’ toda la familia. Do not miss out on this great salsa party! █
Photo courtesy of TSR
on Oscar Emilio Leon was born in Caracas on July 11th, 1943, in the neighborhood of Antimano, a suburb of the capital of the Bolivian Republic of Venezuela. Better known as “Sonero del Mundo,” “Diablo de la salsa,” “El bajo danzante,” and el “León de la Salsa”, el gran OSCAR D’LEON is one of the most respected artists of Venezuela and the continent. He is characterized as one of the best exponents of “salsa” on the international stage.
8
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
Picture courtesy of ESKO
URBAN
By Ellen Flores
I LIKE TO CALL HIM MR. REMIX. SOME KNOW HIM AS DE LA GEEZY. THOSE CLOSEST TO HIM CALL HIM RAFAEL, AND WE KNOW HIM AS DE LA GHETTO. VERY MUCH IN THE STYLE OF ARTISTS LIKE PITBULL, DE LA GHETTO HAS COLLABORATED WITH SOME OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL AND INFLUENTIAL ARTISTS IN THE HIP-SHAKING AND CADERA SWAYING REGGAETON GENRE. Born in New York and raised in the barrio La Perla in San Juan, Puerto Rico, De La Ghetto got his big break on mastermind reggaeton producer Naldo’s “Sangre Nueva” mixtape in 2005. On Sangre Nueva he collaborated with fellow reggaeton artist Arcángel on the track Ven Pégate. The track set local clubs afire and the two MC’s joined forces to become Arcángel & De La Ghetto. The duo steadily began touring around the island and shortly after,
they were signed to Baby Records owned by Zion from Zion y Lennox. In 2006 after being signed, they were featured on the mixtapes La Factoría Del Flow Volumes 1-3. The duo recorded the album Las Nuevas Amenazas in 2007 and once the album dropped, online reggaeton forums in Puerto Rico embraced the duo’s tiraera sound (battle style) that was a throwback to the underground sound; an old school pre-reggaeton sound. Enter Jowell y Randy circa late 2007 climbing the top of the charts. The remix for the song Siente el Boom was the platform used to launch De La Ghetto as a soloist in this collaboration between Casa de Leones duo Jowell y Randy and Tito el Bambino. In that same year, De La Ghetto also collaborated on remixes for Alexis & Fido’s motel anthem 5 Letras, Zion’s Your Body and Sé. These collaborations and his flawless English pronunciation allowed him to venture into R&B and Hip Hop styles by collaborating with heavy hitters like Nelly, Timbaland, Beeny Man, Lil Wayne and Akon. After collaborating on numerous projects, De La Ghetto embraced the grit and flow that the streets of New York influenced on him and inspired him to record the track Sensación del Bloque off his solo debut album Masacre Musical. This album was released in 2008 and the video for Sensación del Bloque received around 26 million hits on Youtube. Masacre Musical also featured Billboard topping hits like Tu Te Imaginas and Momento Que Te Vi, which
features a collaboration with legendary DJ Blass. Masacre Musical is true to his style by being a bilingual lyrically charged ghetto vibe album. The title track of this album has inspired a new motion picture project that is currently under way. Ghettología, is proposed to be inspired by De La Ghetto’s life and is being filmed in his home barrio, La Perla in Puerto Rico. His second solo album, Mi Movimiento is a fresh and innovative project in the urban R&B genre. The album dropped in late August of last year and featured 16 tracks that vary from reggaeton, Hip Hop, R&B and pop. Songs like Jala Gatillo and Tu y Yo are among the most standout tracks in the album. What future plans are in store? Collaborations with Toby Love and Daddy Yankee on his new album Prestige are on the docket along with a new studio album titled Juntos Por Necesidad del Genero which marks a reunion with Arcángel La Maravilla. The one to mark on your calendar is July 26 when the DMV area will receive a visit from El Jefe del Bloke at Ibiza nightclub for a night filled with crazy beats and ghetto grooves. █
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/9
SPORTS
From Left:
Photos courtesy of Monumental Sports
Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone The Korean Zombie Dustin Poirier Jeremy Stephens
By Juan Leon
IMILAR TO FOOTBALL, THE UFC SERVES UP A DYNAMIC COMBINATION OF SKILLED ATHLETES, VIOLENCE, EXOTICISM (FEW SINGLE SPORTS LEAGUES IN THE WORLD ARE AS DIVERSELY REPRESENTED AS THE UFC’S ROSTER), AND UNPARALLELED THRILLS. Mixed martial arts’
ascendance has been so rapid and forceful, traditionalist boxing purists—feeling the threat to boxing’s stature—have felt compelled to repeatedly attack the (relatively) new sport. This May, the UFC (almost synonymous with mixed martial arts to casual fans) returns to the Washington DC metro area.
The Diamond versus The Korean Zombie. The nicknames of fighters Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier and “The Korean Zombie” Chang-Sung Jung alone are a fine illustration of the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s (UFC) appeal. May 15th, 2012 these two featherweight contenders will face off on UFC on Fuel TV 3 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia for a possible chance at the 145-pound title currently held by Jose Aldo. Aldo is expected to defend his title at UFC 149 July 21st, 2012 at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta.
Poirier (seen most recently in a cameo appearance on MTV’s mixed martial arts reality show “Caged” and documentary film “Fightville”) and the South Korean Chang-Sung Jung are both undefeated in the UFC. The Diamond is 12-1 in his career while The Korean Zombie is 15-3. UFC on Fuel TV 3 features other excellent and potentially exciting match-ups besides the main event. Coming off a loss against Nate Diaz, 155 pounder Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone faces off against Jeremy Stephens. Stephens is coming off a loss to the dynamic Anthony Pettis (if you have yet to see Pettis’ off-the-cage kick against current UFC lightweight champion Ben Henderson, start googling). Meanwhile 185 pounders Tom Lawlor (known to sport fierce muttonchops at times) and solid Canadian veteran Jason Macdonald are scheduled for a middleweight bout. Fighting by way of Richmond, Virginia, Ultimate Fighter (TUF) winner Amir Sadollah faces off against Jorge Lopez. Some may remember Cody Mckenzie from the Ultimate Fighter reality show. His remarkable winning percentage and proficiency with the guillotine submission earned his particular method of pulling off the maneuver the name “Mckenzie-tine”.
Two bantamweight match-ups open up the prelim card with Mexico’s Alex Soto set to fight Azamat Gashimov (making his UFC debut) and longtime MMA veteran Jeff Curran taking on Brazilian fighter Johnny Eduardo. Decorated wrestler and grappler Kamal Shalrous faces off against Rafael Dos Anjos who is coming off a loss against fellow Brazilian Gleison Tibau. The UFC has held other successful events in the Washington DC Metro area including at the Verizon center in October 2011 and a sold out show at the Patriot Center in January 2010. Fun Fact for fans in the area: UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones is the younger brother of Baltimore Ravens lineman Arthur Jones Tickets for UFC on Fuel TV 3 are on sale now. Tickets start at just $44 and are available at the Patriot Center box office, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Don’t miss out on this exciting event! █
10
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
TROPICAL
/ MAY 2012
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 11
BALLET
By Maria Veronica Cevallos
C
Photos courtesy of Alliet Live
losing the Washington Ballet’s current season is ¡Noche Latina!, a dazzling, high-energy show celebrating the passion and charisma of Latin American music, culture and dance. Featuring a three part show, ¡Noche Latina! will surely captivate audiences at the Kennedy Center in its 5 day run. The show will be the world premiere of work by renowned choreographers Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and Edwaard Liang. Ms. Lopez Ochoa’s ballet features contemporary dance to music by many famous and recognized artists from Latin America, including Spanish singer Maria Dolores Pradera and Mexican singer Chavela Vargas, among other singers, songwriters, and musicians of Spanish, Argentinian, Costa Rican and Mexican descent. The dancers’ passionate performance tells stories and tales of love and life in Latin America and Spain. Celebrating one of the most eclectic holidays in Mexico and Latin America, Edwaard Liangs’ ballet, “La Ofrenda,” features music by Argentine Gustavo Santaolalla, Mexican singer Lila Downs, and duo Rodrigo y Gabriela. To complement the choreography, the set design was created in collaboration with
world-renowned painter and sculptor, Spaniard Cristóbal Gabarrón. Gabarrón created hundred of fiberglass sculptures depicting iconic symbols of this holiday such as flowers, doves, and skulls. These sculptures will later be sold following the run of ¡Noche Latina! with the proceeds benefiting the Washington Ballet foundation and their Latino dancers and outreach programs. Finalizing the show and making the company debut is Trey McIntyre’s “Like a Samba” ballet. Set to the rhythms of bossa nova and bluegrass, the performers dance effortlessly to the music, with the carefree attitude that the music gives off, while at the same time, interpreting the dance with movements thought to be reserved to classical ballet. However, the treats do not end there, as this show will feature an intermission performance by none other than Colombian singer Sonia Bazanta Vides, better known as Totó la Momposina. She is known for singing traditional mixed indigenous Colombian and Afro-Latin music. Most famous is her 1993 album, “La Candela Viva,” and her brilliant interpretations of songs like “Cosas pa’ pensar,” “Yo Me Llamo Cumbia,” and“El Pescador.” Don’t forget to attend this wonderful event running from May 9th to the 13th at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Eisenhower Theater. For more information on this program, including casting updates, behind-the-scenes videos and more, visit washingtonballet.org. █
12
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
KESTADC.COM GALLERY La Nueva Dimension ex Rafaga @ V3 Lounge 04.20.12
Nelson Santa Cruz Design Spring/Summer Lobby For The Washington Design Center 04.19.12
Eva Ayll贸n @ The State Theatre 04.01.12
Franco de Vita @ The Fillmore 03.28.12
Rakim & Ken-Y @ Bravo Bravo 03.23.12
Vetusta Morla @ U St Music Hall 03.21.12
Photo credit: Ben Droz and Morgan Howarth
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 13
KESTA HAPPENING DC FEATURED EVENTS Sat 05.05 Sun 05.06 Wed 05.09 - Sun 05.13 Fri 05.11 Fri 05.11 Fri 05.11 Fri 05.11 - Sat 05.12 Sat 05.12 Sat 05.12 Sun 05.13 Fri 05.18 Sat 05.19 Thur 05.24 Thur 05.24 Fri 05.25 Mon 06.10 Fri 06.22 Wed 07.11 Sun 08.12
CINCO Celebration @ The Filmore Zacarias Ferreira @ Galaxy La Nueva Noche Latina @ Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater Bus Tonero Guajaja @ Ceviche House Aniceto Molina @ El Boqueron II M3 Rock Festival @ Merriweather Post Pavllion Los Hnos Yaipen @ El Boqueron II Eclectica @ Domes of Beltsville Alci Acosta @ El Puente de Oro Los Angeles Negros @ El Puente de Oro Argentine Festival 2012 @ Thomas Jefferson Theater Babasonicos @ Howard Theater Tego Calderon @ Ibiza Nightclub Hermanos Flores y Orquesta San Vicente @ The Palace Foster The People @ Merriweather Joan Sebastian & Pepe Aguilar @ The Patriot Center Autenticos Decadentes @ The Howard Theater Festival Latino de Maryland @ Baltimore County Timonium Fairgruounds
For more information and many more events go to KESTADC.COM
¡Noche Latina! la nueva
May 9–13
The Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater
Tickets start at $29
Choreography:
Edwaard Liang Annabelle Lopez Ochoa Trey McIntyre Live musical performance by
Totó la Momposina
Pictured: Sona Kharatian & Luis R. Torres by Steve Vaccariello
washingtonballet.org 202.467.4600
14
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
FEATURE
By Juan Leon
anturce, Puerto Rico-born Tego Calderon’s music is rooted in grace. Tego (“El Abayarde”) communicates the universal experience of thankfulness and essential gratitude for life. From “Gracias” (El Abayarde, 2004), to “A Mi Papa” (El Subestimado/The Underdog, 2006), to “Alegria” (El Abayarde Contraataca, 2007), Tego articulates a philosophy of joy (not the same thing as happiness) achieved through struggle and hardship. This is wisdom. Sabiduria. >>>>>>
WWW.KESTADC.COM
Thus, the apt and well-earned album title for El Abayarde’s latest (not yet released)—“El Que Sabe, Sabe” (“He Who Knows, Knows”)— demonstrates intent to communicate and impart knowledge from a perspective forged through experience. The act of transmitting wisdom is also central to a recurring aspect in Tego’s work—history and continuity. Manifested in his exploration of father/son relationships and familial loyalty, Tego affirms gratitude for the lessons of the past and the sacrifices of those who came before. “A Mi Papa”, a masterful elegy for his father, is possibly Tego’s greatest track. Backed by flutes which evoke tranquility (not just sadness), and amidst grief, Tego outlines the lessons imparted by his father Esteban. Deriving strength from Esteban’s moral legacy, Calderon illuminates the transfer of wisdom from father to son: “A Mi Papa’s” chorus repeats, “Sigo pa’ lante como me enseñaste/ Viejo! Siempre evitando que el grande me aplaste”. Familial loyalty and continuity is emphasized when Tego raps, “El que siempre me apoyo y en mi talento creyó/Ni si quiera estando preso la espalda me dio/Gracias por la madre que usted me eligió/ Pa’ darme la vida, Pilar Rosario la mejor.” Finally, Calderon unites moral and musical influence by citing his father’s love for Johnny Pacheco: “Cante con la Fania/ Se que lo sabia, por que usted no lo veia lo sentia”. Tego doesn’t confine his tributes to lyrics alone. Musically Tego pays debt to his forefathers— on “Abayarde”, by sampling Cab Calloway’s “Minnie the Moocher” and on “Plante Bandera” with all out salsa instrumentation. Central to Calderon’s work is the blood bond of the human/musical family. Tego’s musical (hip-hop, jazz, salsa) and spiritual (mother, father, community) influences are intertwined in his work. Like all great folk artists El Abayarde stresses individual experience to connect the person to the wider world. Human communication is the focus.
In “Gracias”, Tego expresses deep gratitude for another being’s recognition of his humanity, (“Gracias a todos los que me emplearon/ Que me vieron jodido y me dieron la mano, mi hermano”), and repays generosity through his own commitment to moral courage: “Gracias a los niños por tanto cariño, los llevo/ Y si te estan maltratando comunicate con Tego”. This is a profound appeal for humane connection that joins to Tego’s artistic identification as an “Underdog”. Essentially this is a demand for humane recognition similar to Morrissey’s eternal “I am human and I need to be loved” lyric on The Smith’s classic (still amazing) “How Soon Is Now”. “Alegria” opens with a jarring horns sample of Shirley Bassey’s “Goldfinger” that grounds and lends menace to the “happiness” Tego raps about. This is why we can believe Tego’s tranquility. He sings of joy not mere happiness. Joy has to be fought for and runs deeper in the blood. Thus, individual quotidian pleasures are savored tenderly in “Alegria”: “No puedo creer que esto esta pasando/ Ni me despierten/ Dejenme vivir soñando/ Esto esta tan bueno como guarapo con hielo/Como China mandarina que con la mano la pelo…” In this way Tego takes a specific, personal and cultural (ethnic) experience and makes it universal, wonderful. alderon’s expressions of gratitude to his people are nothing as frivolous as, say, Lady Gaga sending shoutouts to her “Little monsters” at award shows. Tego’s gratefulness is hard-earned through identification with the lives of underdogs and a soulful inhabitation of struggle. This is why those who are dismissive of popular artists, need look only towards Tego for their own and Latin pop music’s redemption. 2011’s Fast Five capitalized on Tego Calderons’ pop appeal by deploying him (and Don Omar) as the Latino representatives of that film’s multi-cultural
/ 15
exploration of brotherhood. Like Fast Five— and artists like Hector Lavoe, Celia Cruz, and Chuck D, who all remind me of Tego— Tego’s surface pop appeal (check out dancefloor killers “Dominicana”, “Tradicional A Lo Bravo”, “Pa’ Que Retozen”) gives way to introspection about our lives and our connections to each other. Tego’s gracias, graces us all. El Que Sabe, Sabe has yet to be released although a single with a Plan B remix (“Pegadito a la Pared”) is out now. Tego Calderon (with full orchestra) performs at Ibiza Nightclub in Washington DC, May 24th at 9 p.m! █
16
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 17
FOOD
By: Manu Mayor
here are a good number of Peruvian eateries in our area and yes, many of them have good food. However, unless you have actually delighted your taste buds in Peru sometime in the last 10 years, you haven’t tasted the revolution. The Peruvian cuisine revolution that is. A combination of economic growth, wider prosperity, new ideas and a renewed sense of pride have rattled the Peruvian pot. Attention to detail has become the norm, and experimental dishes have become new classics. The foodie world took notice and now thousands of visitors flock to Peru every year, not to trek Machu Picchu, but to taste Peru’s new more accentuated flavors. Many now consider Lima the gastronomic capital of the Americas. Most of the local Peruvian spots have been slow at incorporating the new classics into their menus. However, in 2007, La Limeña restaurant in Rockville, MD opened its doors for the first time with a concept that went beyond traditional Peruvian dishes. La Limeña had humble beginnings; located in an unassuming strip mall they began serving dishes in disposable wares. The great food quality however, was evident in the food from day one. Slowly this small eatery earned a loyal following and thanks to their excellent portions of fresh ceviche & lomo saltado, people coming back for more…and more. Fast forward to 2012, and now you will find a packed house at La Limeña any day of the week. The plastic plates are long gone (and while still small), La Limeña now has the amenities of a full-fledged restaurant down to the cloth napkins and the nicely uniformed staff. While making your way into the dining area you will notice a display of excellent looking dishes right in front of you. What a way to excite your palate! The small space is welcoming, full of people that look like they are really enjoying what they are eating. A nice, modern instrumental mix of Peruvian
sounds plays in the background. Emma Perez, the owner greets us at the table and surprises us when she mentions not just pisco sour but also algarrobina, as a drink option. Algarrobina is a popular dinner drink for the women in Lima, naturally being completely secure in my masculinity, I had to try one. The algarrobina drink is made with pisco, condensed & evaporated milk, cinnamon, and the carob syrup known as algarrobina, or as I would refer to it as a child, “the blood of the trees.” The drink is sweet with a slight bitter aftertaste that balances it all out. It is creamy but dry and it goes down way too easily. Their pisco sours are also one of the closest in taste to the one’s served in Peru that you will find in the area. Next you should try the anticuchos. Anticuchos are cow heart skewers straight from the grill! Don’t be put off by the “heart” label. When the cut is in your plate, it is nothing more than a piece of tender mouth-watering meat! The accompanying potatoes are perfectly cooked and they come out “doraditas” with a hint of anticucho flavor. The cebiche or ceviche (no, there’s no agreed upon correct spelling) is a popular draw here. The fish is fresh and the lime at the right point. The menu choices include choros a la chalaca, a staple of any real cebicheria in Peru and an appetizer too often missing from other places in this area. Choros a la chalaca are half-shelled mussels topped with chopped onion, tomato, corn, cilantro and a splash of lime juice. The result is as fresh as La Limeña’s menu. Another great entree is the seco. Unlike other places, the seco here is a tender, melt off-the-bone lamb.
Beans and very Peruvian tasting white rice accompany the lamb to create a generous nicely presented portion. Make sure to leave some room for dessert, as the options are plentiful here. They include the usual suspects such as arroz con leche, but finding a mousse de maracuyá was a total surprise! This passion fruit mousse is served in a decently sized cup where every spoonful will remind you of tropical lands. Picarones are Peru’s version of doughnuts and La Limeña has them every Thursday. Four of them presented neatly one on top of the other. A good soft crunch precedes the authentic flavor. Other pastries are also available such as an impressive alfajorcito. How is that you ask? Come and find out. When La Limeña started out you found the quality of the place in the food, now you can see the quality of La Limeña in all its aspects. From the food, to the great service, to the care of the presentation. There is a legitimate effort at La Limeña to be a part of the Peruvian cuisine revolution, come get a taste of it. █ La Limeña is located at 765 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
18
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
Buenos Aires
Tango Argentino
Columbus Lighth ouse Perito Moren o Glacier, Pa tagonia
By: Nadia Quiroga
he largest Spanish-speaking nation in the world (in land area), the Republic of Argentina is a wondrous place. Over 5.8 million visitors traveled to Argentina in 2010 and it’s not hard to figure out why! The country is nestled between the Andes mountain range in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the east. Its central location and diverse landscape make it a wonderful destination for any world traveler! Buenos Aires, regarded as the “Paris of South America,” offers elegant architecture, exquisite cuisine, a legendary nightlife, and fashionable shopping. In the neighborhood of San Telmo, Plaza Dorrego hosts an antiques fair on Sundays, complete with tango shows. Buenos Aires is one of
those cities that never sleeps and on a typical night you can find a variety of events going on through all hours of the night to please anyone’s taste.
with colonial monuments. Little towns, historical antiques and cave paintings are found in a pleasant valley landscape, high plains and gorges.
If your only exposure to Argentina has been the image of the steak-eating gauchos (cowboys), then you’re probably thinking about the Province of Buenos Aires. The largest province, it’s known for its estancias (large cattle ranches) featuring a great deal of architectural styles, located in the middle of the Pampas, where tourists can learn about history and Creole customs. The province is also known by its many beaches in the coast of the Atlantic Ocean (the most visited being Mar del Plata).
Cuyo is a region of high peaks, snow-covered volcanoes, and large wilderness spreading from the Andes mountain range and foothills to the steppe. A visit to Ischigualasto - Talampaya Natural Parks, is a true journey to the dinosaurs’ era. The region displays the full splendor of the Central Andean Range.
A hilly landscape and favorable weather conditions are distinctive in the Province of Córdoba, a place where natural sceneries are mixed
The North (El Norte) consists of the provinces of Jujuy, Salta, Catamarca, Tucumán and Santiago del Estero. The whole region combines natural attractions with areas for diverse activities such as mountaineering, trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, ecotourism, bird-watching, rural tourism, and archeological trips. Sailing, canoeing
WWW.KESTADC.COM
Mar del PLata
Jujuy
Ischigualasto - Talampaya Natural Parks
San Telmo Fair
Buenos Aires, Paris of South America
/ 19
Bariloche
Iguazu Falls, Argentina
Córdoba
and windsurfing are other sports that may be practiced in this region. Never a dull moment! The “Litoral” consists of the provinces of Chaco, Corrientes, Entre Ríos, Formosa, Misiones and Santa Fe. This is a region of large rivers, humid tropics, red earth and a virgin forest full of huge trees. The Iguazú Falls on the border with Brazil are one of the world’s natural wonders. Lined with dense forests, the Iguazú river flows into 275 waterfalls, plunging more than 70 meters with a deafening noise. The Patagonia consists of the provinces of La Pampa, Neuquén, Río Negro, Chubut, Santa Cruz and Tierra del Fuego. In Los Glaciares National Park, glaciers drain the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and end in the Lago Argentino, blocking one of its bays until the pressure of the water blows the ice dam. One of the most popular attractions is the Perito Moreno Glacier. Bariloche is famous for skiing but also great for family trips for older children and sightseeing, water sports, trekking and climbing. Cerro Catedral is one of the most important ski centers in South America. Now that you know a little about the country, let’s talk about the culture! For the most part Argentine culture has significant European influences with Argentinians being of almost 80%
European descent. The other big influence is the gauchos and their traditional country lifestyle of self-reliance. They hold yearly festivals that last for days known as a “domada” where they tame wild horses and host other rodeo-style vents. Finally, indigenous American traditions (like yerba mate infusions) have also been absorbed into the general cultural. You will often see locals drinking mate in the traditional gourds everywhere you go. Argentine cuisine definitely shows its mixed heritage. Besides many of the pasta, sausage and dessert dishes common to continental Europe, Argentines enjoy a wide variety of Indigenous and Criollo creations, which include empanadas (a stuffed pastry), locro (a mixture of corn, beans, meat, bacon, onion, and gourd), humitas and yerba mate, all originally indigenous Amerindian staples, the latter considered Argentina’s national beverage. You also can’t forget about Argentina’s national adult beverage, wine! Argentina is one of the top producers of wine in the world and you can find a variety of unique grape wines such as Malbec and Torrontes. Argentinians also have the highest consumption of red meat in the world! It’s no surprise that popular items include chorizo (a spicy sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), and the staple Argentine barbecue known as “asado or parrillada”. Thin sandwiches de miga are also
popular. For the sweet tooths, a Viennese-style pastry known as, “facturas”, or Dulce de leche will do the trick. While tango is Argentina’s musical symbol, Argentine rock developed in the mid-1960s into a distinct musical style beginning in Buenos Aires and Rosario generating such prolific artists as Soda Stereo, Sumo, Charly García, Luis Alberto Spinetta, and Fito Páez which are now national icons. Last but not least are Argentina’s sports! “Futbol” (soccer) is the most popular sport and the national team has earned 25 major international titles including two FIFA World Cups, two Olympic gold medals, and fourteen Copa Américas. Over one thousand Argentine players play abroad, the majority of them in European football leagues. Other popular sports include field hockey (particularly amongst women), tennis, auto racing, boxing, volleyball, polo, and golf. Overall, Argentina is a country full of diverse geographical landscapes, rich culture, delicious food, drinks, a wide array of activities to suit everyone’s interest, and powerful music. Pack up your bags and head to this land of wonders pronto! █
20
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
HEALTH
F
eeling healthy and stress free requires you to keep a well-balanced lifestyle from the inside out. Controlling external situations such as managing your budget can help you maintain a strong money flow and can lead to less stress and good credit, however, these are not the only numbers you should be worried about. Knowing your numbers for recommended weight, right cholesterol, healthy blood pressure and sugar levels, as well as, how many times per week you should be exercising, can help you stay on track to good health. In this month’s article I will give you some of the right digits in both health and finances to keep you on track for having a well-balanced, stress free, and healthy life.
by Jenny O
The Temple ( Your Body)
Blood Pressure Numbers
Knowing the correct weight for your body type will let you know if you’re overweight and how much you need to exercise to reduce any health issues. Some of the health issues that can develop are High Blood Pressure (HBP) which is known as the silent killer because there are nearly no symptoms. (HBP) is a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease (also called coronary artery disease), heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems.
Blood pressure is measured as systolic (sis-TOL-ik) and diastolic (di-a-STOL-ik) pressures. “Systolic” refers to blood pressure when the heart beats while pumping blood. “Diastolic” refers to blood pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.
There are many ways to find out your healthy weight range, your doctor can provide you this number and you can also find this information online by going to http://www.cdc.gov/ healthyweight. This site for the Center for Disease Control provides a free Adult BMI and Weight Calculator that will allow you to enter your height and current weight, and will calculate your current BMI and healthy weight range. What does BMI Mean? Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. Knowing your BMI is important because it will let you know if you are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. BMI Categories: •Underweight = <18.5 •Normal weight = 18.5–24.9 •Overweight = 25–29.9 •Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater
Categories for Blood Pressure Levels in Adults (measured in millimeters of mercury, or mmHg) CATEGORY NORMAL PREHYPERTENSION
SYSTOLIC
DIASTOLIC
(TOP NUMBER)
(BOTTOM NUMBER)
Less than 120
And
Less than 80
120-139
Or
80-89
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE STAGE 1
140-159
Or
90-99
STAGE 2
160 or higher
Or
100 or higher
The ranges in the table apply to most adults (aged 18 and older) who don’t have short-term serious illnesses. Blood pressure doesn’t stay the same all the time. It lowers as you sleep and rises when you wake up. Blood pressure also rises when you’re excited, nervous, or active. However, if your numbers stay above normal most of the time, you’re at risk for health problems.
Finances (Credit Score) Knowing how much money comes in and how much you have available to spend is having control of your finances.
Not keeping control can lead to bad credit and extra stress, which can create imbalances in your health and have other negatives effects on your finances. Three Harmless Digits Your credit score is a three-digit number that looks harmless, but don’t be fooled. A good credit score can be your ticket to the best interest rates whenever you borrow money. A bad credit score, on the other hand, can hurt you in many ways. Your credit score is a number between 300 and 850, with the national average coming in around 675. It’s designed to reflect how likely you are to pay back loans on time. A high score (720 or above) indicates a history of handling debt responsibly by making payments on time and not overextending yourself. Lower scores suggest that you have had difficulties doing these things in the past, so lenders consider you a greater risk. Areas where your credit score can affect you are: Mortgages, Credit Cards, Consumer loans, Employment You can’t fix your credit score overnight, but changing how you borrow and spend money can help you greatly impove it. Remember that being healthy involves both internal and external factors. It means not only hitting the gym but also keeping your finances stable as well. Educate yourself and learn all your digits so you can prevent serious health issues and take control of your health, mind, body, and soul. █
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 21
STYLE
STYINLET H
Style Hint: If you aren’t too keen on brightly colored hues, try a pastel colored blazer instead.
2
5
4 3 1
6
KEEP IT SIMPLE ANHDA START WITESS BASIC DR
By Daniela Guillen
There has recently been a splurge of color all over the runways and streets; everything from handbags to jeans now come in neon’s and other eye-catching colors. See that black blazer in your closet? Throw it out (or at least hide it in the back of your closet for now)! Personally, I think blazers are the bomb! Why? Because they are so easy to style! Throw it over a dress, jeans, or work slacks and you’re ready to go in a cinch. Bring on the blazers! █
8 7
FEELIN A LITTL G COLOR E TRY TH SHY? ESE!
1. Theory ‘Yanette - C.Taylor’, $245 | 2. H&M, $40 | 3. Sienna $152.52; assos.com | 4. Bright Angle Blazer, $58 - nastygal.com 5. Chiffon Green Blazer, $68 - nastygal.com | 6. Scuba Skater Dress, $92 topshop.com | 7. Pale Blue Boyfriend Blazer, $70- topshop.com | 8. Ponte Shrunken Blazer, $70- topshop.com
22
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
KESTA GIRL OF THE MONTH
WWW.KESTADC.COM
Background / Hometown: Richmond, Virginia Hobbies: Reading, playing Scrabble, cooking Favorite DC Restaurant: Dirty Martini Favorite Quote: ““I can resist everything but temptation.” - Oscar Wilde FavoriteDrink: Red Bull & Vodka Photographer: Cameron (DCProstudio.com)
/ 23
24
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 25
LOCAL TALENT
By Maria Veronica Cevallos
An all-around artist, Venezuelan David Camero does everything from acting, painting, poetry, mime and even culinary arts and more. Painting since childhood, David has made the arts his lifelong passion and travels throughout Latin America performing, teaching, and involving himself with many projects around the Washington D.C. area, passing on his love for the arts to others. To Camero, his enthusiasm for self-expression started early, and discovering new and different ways to do so through his life have only fueled his creativity. A man of many passions, David began young, winning painting awards in school. When he was just 17, he won a scholarship to study the art of mime and movement in France at L’École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq. Returning to Venezuela, he then began his studies in studio arts and graduated from the Universidad Central de Venezuela.
Acting and performing in street theaters, then later after several brushes with advertisements and films, David then decided to accept an acting proposition with fellow Venezuelan director Blanca Gruber and traveled to Washington D.C., where he then decided to move to. Establishing his own organization called “Compania del Bouffon” in 2000, he now develops his work as an entertainment actor, painter and instructor of prop arts, which includes things like costume making, masks and other various props.
One of his latest projects is an exhibition of twenty mixed media collages called “Raices Nativas/Native Roots,” where he explores continental America’s connection with their indigenous ancestors, and what he calls, “the grace of primordial” that comes from those native to the continent. “The idea is to encourage the audience to be drawn together by the subject of the indigenous that I think provides the keys to contemplate our earliest origins, sources of wisdom as well as the power to keep, to nurture and to pass on.”
Taking into account his abilities in many forms of art, Camero describes himself as a “multifaceted artist.” He explains that this trait of his work comes from a trip he took to Greece and discovering something about himself. “I became another person. I discovered how to open my mind to new realities and imagination and was completely transformed... I decided then to be like a ‘Renaissance Artist’, capable of everything, to experiment on all means and exceed my own ideas and imagination.”
David Camero is indeed not only a multifaceted artist, but also a prolific one. In addition to his “Raices Nativas,” he also has other upcoming projects already in the works. One of them is with other artists in the Washington D.C. to commemorate this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month in Takoma Park Community Center in September called “Colectiva Latino Americana.”
Teaching in Compania del Bouffon, he instructs adults as well as children to project that same limitless selfexpression where boredom and any other feelings that trump fluency are disallowed. His mission is “always trying to change the world, without prejudice, working through issues, and having creative workshops focused primarily on intellectual development as human beings.”
You can see David Camero’s exhibition “Raices Natives/ Native Roots” until June at the Alexandria Commission for the Arts at the Lee Center, as well as his other exhibition, “Frivolous Corpus,” in Silver Spring through June 26. For more info about David and his work, visit his website at www.lacompaniadelbouffon.com. █
Photographs by Ma. Pia Younger
26
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
VENUE
By: April Rose
IT’S FRIDAY NIGHT AND IT’S BEEN A LONG WEEK! YOU’RE THINKING, I REALLY NEED TO HAVE A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN ... BUT THE THOUGHT OF GOING TO THE DISTRICT JUST SEEMS SO FAR AWAY. YOU’D LIKE TO ENJOY A FEW DRINKS, SOME GREAT FOOD AND DANCE ALL NIGHT BUT DON’T WANT THE HOUR RIDE THERE. WELL, NOW YOU HAVE A LOCAL SOLUTION. PALACE NIGHTCLUB BRINGS YOU A LITTLE BIT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA AT HANDS REACH! Located in Woodbridge, Virginia the Palace offers a full service restaurant with a variety of selections bound to please everyone. Offering a diverse grill menu, the fullservice restaurant is open from lunch until late night seven days a week. Drinks are poured until 2 a.m. and the dancing fun continues until 3 a.m. Aside from offering a fantastic menu comprised of a combination of Mexican, Peruvian, and Salvadorian dishes, the restaurant fully entertains it’s guests with two dance floors, three full bars, three VIP rooms, and over 20 big
screen televisions throughout. With this in mind, the Palace is not only an excellent local option for a night out, but it is also a great choice of venue for weddings, sweet 16 parties, corporate events, and parties for any occasion providing a great place to gather your friends, family and colleagues together for a special night.
Saturdays are International Nights, when they feature the best combination of Bachata, Merengue, and Salsa music. In addition to being a nightclub, the Palace’s large space and large selection of TV’s also lend themselves for sports! Therefore, the Palace let us know they will be showing the World Cup Qualifier games when they begin in June.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Ruben Andrade, owner of the restaurant to gain a deeper insight of the allures Palace Nightclub has to offer. Ruben shared that the Palace location has been 100% remodeled from its predecessor (East Coast). As a result of the renovations, the Palace offers an entirely different ambiance and is more upscale than what East Coast had to offer.
According to Ruben, weekend crowds at the Palace can reach anywhere from 600 to 900 people (nearly the full 1,000 person capacity). He hopes to continue to thrive in his business, and continue to wow his patrons to keep them coming back and bringing their friends. Ruben concluded our conversation with this message to everyone out there reading this article, “Give us the chance and opportunity to serve you!”
During my conversation with Ruben, it was clear he and his staff are completely service and client focused. In his own words, Ruben explained to me why he has strived to make such a huge investment into the Palace, “It makes me happy to see people enjoying great dancing and food and that people accept my work and effort. I’m really happy that people take us into consideration when they’re thinking about going out to come and enjoy a good night, a good drink and good food.” The Palace keeps an open-mind in regards to themes for each night and Ruben tells us, “We try to accommodate our customers with their tastes ... a little bit of everything.” Sundays are dedicated to Mexican concerts. Thursdays newest theme is to host Urban Nights. Fridays and
With reasonable prices, plenty of parking, great security, great managers, and an ambiance sure to appeal to every taste, Ruben and his team have taken many steps to make sure everyone is having a good time when they visit the Palace. So the next time you’re considering a night out on the town, give the Palace in Woodbridge, Virginia a shot. I know that Ruben and his team are excited to have you there and can’t wait to serve you and show you an amazing time! █
The Palace Night Club is located at: 13989 Jefferson Davis Highway Woodbridge, VA Facebook: PalaceVA
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 27
RADIO PERSONALITY
By: Christina Cortés
t the young age of 23, most people are either finishing college or beginning their careers. For Christopher Pinilla – better known as Chris Hypnotyc – this is not the case! This hypnotizing entrepreneur’s story started out at a very young age when he became a club promoter. As a promoter he was frequently referred to as “the young promoter doing big things” – and he has definitely lived up to that reputation! Now a hugely popular radio personality on La Nueva 87.7 FM, Chris has made a name for himself in the radio industry and continues to impress all those that he meets. KM: You started out your career as a promoter and have now transitioned into radio. What is your favorite thing about being on the radio? CH: The fact that I get to know so many people and that I get to be surrounded by music. I love music! KM: So what do you do at La Nueva 87.7? we see that you have several timeslots/shows? CH: I used to be at night 10pm-1am n weekends but because they believed in me i got moved to mid day shift 10am-3pm now bringing you variety of music thruout the morning and el bachatazo at 1pm and mix show el bombazo mix at 2pm HM: What can listeners expect to hear during this time? CH: Mornings the best music variety, more music and menos bla bla bla and in the afternoon at 1 el bachatazo with the best bachata from the classics to the newest hits. At 2pm, the best mixes, a feeling of what they would get of when i host at the club.
Keep up with Chris at online: http://twitter.com/#!/hypnotyc http://facebook.com/ChrisHypnotyc www.lanueva877fm.com
KM: What has been your favorite thing about joining La Nueva 87.7 FM? CH: I have been able to learn a lot about different cultures that I didn’t know anything about before. I’ve learned about politics and I’ve been able to be very involved in the community. I get to combine lots of different things into one with this job and I love that.
KM: Do you have any funny stories about something that has happened to you or something you have done while on air? CH: On April Fool’s Day this year we played a prank on one of the promotion guys. I set up the computer so it would look like we were live on air and we had lots of hip hop songs on really loud with tons of curse words. He made a really funny face like “Oh my God”. He really thought we were live, he was so confused. KM: If we take a look at your iPod what will we find? Any favorite artists or songs right now? CH: I do a lot of salsa and bachata. For bachata I really like Romeo’s “La Diabla” and I also like Prince Royce’s new song “Incondicional”. Another song I really like is Don Omar’s “Dutty Love” featuring Natti Natasha. “Dale Chocolate” is another song I really like but it’s more of a club song. KM: So how is your love life going? CH: What love life? (Laughs) When it comes to my love life I’m in love with my career. I’m dedicated to it. I’m married to my career. I put all of my energy and time into it so it will take me to bigger and better places. KM: Since you dedicate so much time to work, how do you spend your free time? CH: I spend my free time with my daughter and hanging out with friends. I love going to the movies and now that the weather is nice I try to go outside more often. Lately a lot of my free time has been for going to the gym because I’m trying to get back into working out. I’m also trying to be more open minded to doing other things than clubbing. That’s the last thing I want to do on my days off now (laughs). KM: You have your website, www.chrishypnotyc.com/, tell us about the site and what we can expect from you there? CH: My website chrishypnotyc.com is a website blog where I post weird, random news stories, then I do about two blogs a week about the stories and every Thursday I release a new video. You can expect lots of video blogs from me. Make sure to keep checking it out because I have some surprises for all of you coming! █
28
/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE
/ MAY 2012
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 29
KE? GIVEAWAYS:
KESTA HOROSCOPE Aries: Tego Calderon says: ”Dale
mami mueve, y pon la cara como que algo te duele.”
-“Pon la Cara”, Tego Calderon
Libra: Babasonicos says: ”Comanse a besos esta noche, total nadie lo va a notar” -“Los Calientes”, Babasonicos
Taurus: Oscar de León says: ”Sácala, llevala al cine, comprale un ramo de flores, bañate junto con ella, llevale la comida a la cama, tratala con mucha ternura...” -“Detalles”, Oscar de León
Scorpio: Pepe Aguilar says: ”El amor
Gemini: Los Hermanos Flores says: “Canta ya mi pueblo, deja las penas pasar. Canta, canta, canta alto la vida va mejorar.” -“Canta mi Pueblo”,Los Hermanos Flores
Sagitarius: Oscar de León says: “Por tu mal comportamiento te vas a arrepentir...” -”Lloraras”, Oscar de León
Cancer: Zacarias Ferreira says: “El
Capricorn: Aniceto Molina says:
amor vencerá todas las barreras y abrirá todas esas puertas que el mundo nos cierra” -El Amor Vencerá, Zacarias Ferreira
Leo: Guajaja says: ”Porque no esta tu marido, porque no esta tu cuñao, aqui baila como quieras y te vas de lao en lao...” -“Sacaroncha”, Guajaja
Virgo: Joan Sebastian says: ”Chaparrita cuerpo de uva, cinturita de gallina ya no hagas mas aerobics tu figura me facina...” -“Te quiero asi”, Joan Sebastian
es igual que tener riqueza, quitan el sueño y perturban la cabeza.”
-“A pierna suelta”, Pepe Aguilar
”Vamos alegres a bailar, vamos alegres a gozar, que ya la fiesta va empezar, que rico vamos a gozarl”
-“La Fiesta Cumbianbera”, Aniceto Molina
Aquarius: Tego Calderón says: ”Oye, metele sazón, bateria, y reggaeton. Que lo demas lo pone Calderón” -“Metele Sazón”, Tego Calderon
Pisces: Pepe Aguilar says: ”Ayer concejos pedi al viento, que va de prisa, me dijo herida de amor con el tiempo cicatriza y lo que hoy te hace sufrir mañana te va a dar risa” -“Botellita de Tequila”,Pepe Aquilar
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!
kesta deals
WWW.KESTADC.COM
/ 32