FLIP VIEW

Guarded and Cynical

2008-05-12T01:21:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm too overprotective about who I am. I'm guarded and cynical at times and I'm growing tired of it. My genuine self wants to be joyful and utter happy. Is this possible?

A certain someone has renewed my faith in humanity; the healing has begun, progress is in motion and I love myself just a bit more with every passing day.

Being guarded and cynical just ain't for me.

The most loaded question I've been asked

2008-05-06T15:51:00.001-07:00

Do you think you love yourself enough for someone to love you?

Wow, my fraternnity brother Erick just asked me this question and I don't have an answer just yet. Keeping in mind that I believe you have to love and embrace yourself before expecting anyone else to love you for who you are.

I wouldn't turn to someone to provide me with my internal happiness. The special people we find along the way are icing on the cake, they aren't and shouldn't be my pathway towards happiness. I have to be okay with myself, beyond that, I have to love myself and that's how people shine. That's how someone discovers you; when you're comfortable enough in your own skin, comfortable with who you are, when you love the you that you are...that's how you shine and that's how someone discovers you and vice versa. Sometimes that's how you find a connection with someone.

This is something I'll have to think about more carefully. How would you answer this question?

Quote from a friend

2008-04-23T01:34:00.000-07:00

Love freely, love without expecting! Just love.
-Alex Loera

Chasing Amy: Dedicated to You

2008-04-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

Several thoughts are rushing through my head. I'm experiencing catharsis and I can think of one specific person who would understand this more than anyone based on a previous conversation. Without a moment's loss I'm instantly drawn to a movie that reminds me of how rare yet so precious it is to find a genuine connection with another human being. Amidst disappointment with how things have to be, I remain optimistic having grown from this positive experience because I've found a friend for life. I remain smiling, no regrets.

Many lines in this movie ring true in how I perceive certain moments of my life especially with regards to people and these connections. This movie has several notable scenes, below you'll find some of my favorite. Pay close attention to the words. Do they remind you of anyone special then or now?

An outburst of raw emotion is captured through song...

Humor and sincerity fuses a friendship between two people...

A risk is taken and expressed with an open heart...

You're Invited!

2008-04-17T01:07:00.000-07:00

FRUIT LOOP 2008

When:
Saturday Apr 26, 2008
at 6:30 PM

Where::
ALL WeHo Bars
West Hollywood, CA 90069
United States

You've been invited to the West Hollywood "Fruit" Loop on Saturday 4.26.08 @ 6:30pm. The Fruit Loop is an fun ass event where we'll be strategically (to avoid covers and and get in on the drink specials) hitting up EVERY bar/club in West Hollywood.

ONLY RULE:
You MUST have at least 1 drink at each spot!

We won't rush since we'll start in the early evening. Bring a camera, cash, friends, and an awesome attitude.

Meet @ East-West Lounge
8851 Santa Monica Blvd.
Saturday 4.26.08 @ 6:30pm

Places We'll be hitting up (not in order):

East West
Trunks
Fiesta Cantina
Rage
Mother Load
Here
Abbey

Hit me up for more information
ucmex@yahoo.com

TYRA THINKS ITS GONNA BE

"FIERCE!"

Last American Virgin

2008-04-17T00:53:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite 80's flicks of all time, The Last American Virgin. This movie is a cross between American Pie and Say Anything, funny yet touching. The soundtrack features many notable hits and complements the film exceptionally well.

Check it out for yourself!

Busy Saturday: A quick run-down

2008-04-16T20:46:00.000-07:00

I woke up early Saturday morning to finish up some work at Parsons. I headed home to change then met up with Eduardo for a Tae-Kwando tournament that a friend of his organized and participated in. We scoped out Old Town then settled for a bite to eat at the Cheese Factory where half way into our delicious lunch we're spotted by no other than Councilwoman Jacque Robinson! It's always great to see her, even she's on Team Obama.

I carpooled with Eduardo and his friend Juan to Hector Silva's Art Exhibit then proceeded to Akbar for Jame's Berfday. It's so much fun expanding my circle of friends in addition to strengthening my current friendships. After Akbar we headed to Arena but only after a pit stop to have a beer. I had such a blast at Arena, even though it was rushed, I got to chat with a bunch of friends like Jose NAK, Gerardo (one of Tarsi's closest friends), Dedan (I got a huge this time), Mikey and Brooklyn (these guys are so much fun). The night ended with some beers and some much needed sleep, I had a blast!

CHIRLA Annual Gala

2008-04-16T20:34:00.001-07:00

On Thursday April 10th I volunteered at CHIRLA's Annual Awards Gala which took place at recently renovated L.A.'s Union Station. I invited several friends and in the end Alex volunteered as well as two of my colleagues, Yuny and Daisy, who serve as Board Directors of the Pasadena Latino Forum. The night evening went very smooth and Whelma the event coordinator did a great job of rallying a lot of volunteers.

I took advantage of focusing on some key networking with the hindsight of collaborating and coalition building with respects to my current project as I chair the Pasadena Human Relations Commission's committee on immigration.

Thanks to everyone who hooked me up with complimentary drink cards! I met a lot of great people and feel much more confident as I approach my own endeavors with regards to immigration. It was a great night for sure!

Balance to the Force

2008-04-09T00:54:00.001-07:00

I'm experiencing euphoria and have reached a stable and healthy balance in my life that I haven't experienced in a long time. Through working out & exercise, enriching my life with positive community involvement & awareness, spending time & communicating with friends, and other factors that I haven't been able to point out, the stars in my life are aligned!

No more feeling dead inside, no more grudges, no more feeling cynical; I feel strong, able and immensely powerful enough to take on challenges that will develop growth.

French Kiss-off the Olympic Torch

2008-04-08T03:14:00.000-07:00

The Olympic Torch made it's way to Paris, France on Monday as part of Beijing's elaborate relay for the upcoming Summer Games. Swarms of protesters disrupted the Torch relay spotlighting China's poor human rights accord and the country's dominance over Tibet. The scene got so bad that the Torch was forcibly extinguished and transported on a bus.

The Mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoe has already infuriated Beijing by displaying a banner on city hall declaring that his city supports human rights around the world.

The next stop for this Torch relay is San Francisco, the only stop in all of North America. You can be sure thousands upon thousands of activists will be on hand to dismiss the flame and China's politics. Here's a preview of what to expect as protesters climbed Golden Gate bridge on Monday to display their own message in the United States.

Commissioner Flip in action

2008-04-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I am a Commissioner for the City of Pasadena serving on the Human Relations Commission. It's been a grand experience thus far but now I feel the pressure of leading an immensely important project with the little experience I have. Chairing a committee isn't new to me but the dynamic is largely removed from those that I've previously handled because being an official City entity there is protocol that must be followed. Luckily I'm a resourceful person and I know how to manage various projects so I won't be approaching this undertaking so blind sighted.

I'll keep everyone posted on how things go but for now it's best to keep this under wraps for now. There are other projects I'd like to take on through this commission such as helping to establish or build-on a gay-alliance network for people in the public and private sector, creating a Commission internship program, establishing a hate crime victim's advocate, collaborate on youth initiatives with am emphasis on academic and leadership development, and lastly helping to ease the strained black-brown relations that seemed to gotten worse over time.

First thing's first, I want to make myself a sandwich-I'm hungry!

Is my heart open?

2008-04-06T13:14:00.000-07:00

I'm aware that some friendships run their course. I don't deny what they were and what currently is. In a feng-shui attack in attempt to simplify my life, seek clarity, and getting rid of some clutter, I've ended some lingering friendships that weren't really friendships at all. It sounds cold-hearted but there's no use in lying about the way things are. I walked away from these relationships having down everything possible to salvage them. My attempts were futile.

Amber thinks that perhaps I'm being a bit haste. She's got magnificent heart-I love her to death. I recognize that my heart is closed to some degree. I look to what is good in my life and I'm immediately reminded of my closest friends and family. I've been hurt so many times and sometimes I inflicted this pain on myself.

Amber thinks my heart is as big as hears and I almost cried because I've let hurt and mistakes define how I view myself and worse, how I deal with things. I love people and perhaps getting rid of them before they hurt me is just easier on me to handle.

Is my heart open or have I been filtering out the unwanted as soon as I asses them as an opportunity for someone to hurt me? I stand by my choices as painful as they might seem. It's no easy task to walk away without looking back but I am an adult now and I expect friends to be friends through thick and thin and unfortunately I haven't seen that in a couple of friends. Look at me now, doing the same thing, walking away. I'm perpetuating the very same thing that I'm chastising. This paradox is the offspring of how I deal with emotional pain. Perhaps there is escape but I haven't been able to reason a compromise between my optimism and cynicism with regards to friendships.

The journey continues. I don't believe in replacements, but as I say goodbye to great people in my life I say hello to some new ones who will undoubtedly bring love and light in the true spirit of growth and friendship.

Birthday Boys!

2008-04-06T12:58:00.000-07:00

Big hugs to my Ryan, Juan, Spike and of course my brother Danny, on their very special day, happy birthday! My brother said he has an awesome time, I called him at 4am and poor guy was recovering from a night of birthday fun. Spike, I owe you one. I know you party like a supahfreak so post some pictures soon!

I did however, party with Ryan and all his friends. I picked up Edu and headed for the Abbey. I love Ryan's friends, they're very successful and positive people who I can totally see myself being around more as I get to know them. After the Abbey we rushed off to Circus where of course parking was a hot mess but alas, we made it in!

It was imperative I make a cameo at Circus to celebrate with Nelson's boy Juan! He seemed to drunk and out of it, loved that guy. It was only a matter of time before I saw everyone else at Circus, Nelson, Adolfo, Alex, Marty, I mean you name it and they were there. Apparently I hooked up Adolfo with some cute guy, ha ha. I tend to do that, I know I've hooked up Alex a couple of times so it didn't surprise me when Adolfo told me what went down.

The night was terrific fun! No drama, no tears this time! The next day was even better, actually...I won't get into it, but I had a great time.

The Job

2008-03-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

A must see and hilarious satirical short film!

One Moment, One Chance

2008-03-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

One Woman,
One Leader,
One Moment,
One Time,
One Chance,
One Decision,
One Fighter,
If not now, when?

A Day with the Girls, I mean the Gammas

2008-03-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights from Circus was hanging out with Alex and his fraternity brothers, the Gammas. NAKs and Gammas are the dominant Latino based fraternity's on the West Coast making us rivals to some degree because we're both relatively large while also being founded around the same time. Of course, this rivalry gets intensified at some chapters while others have a pretty good relationship. In the real world, it's important to embrace all people, especially if they've got a good head on their shoulders.

After Circus Alex and I joined his Fraternity brothers at the Gay Burrito off Santa Monica Blvd. I had a great time with them at Circus and the vibe continued while we ate. Of course I was teased for being a NAK but that's just because they don't know any better, ha ha. In all reality these guys were wonderful people having a really good time.

I'm not sure how this came to be, but they convinced Alex and I to crash at Beto's (UCLA) apartment so that we can continue drinking and go tanning the next day. Of course it sounds silly in retrospect considering the weather had been a little cold as of late but alas, they had me at more drinks.

We woke up the next day and these guys...oh man...they wanted to start taking shots! I don't take succesful shots but thanks to them I finally found my poison! I can take a shot of whiskey with ease! We must have taken 9 shots in a span of 2 hours, goodtimes! We got into some discussions on the Democratic Primary, gay marriage and God knows what else. We walked to a Mexican restaurant where Alex treated me to some nachos with chicken mmmmmmmm.

Soon after we returned to the apartment we decided to head to the beach, I was the most sober to drive and so we headed to Santa Monica which was only about a minute drive away. The beach was fun and even snuck in a few shots while we were tanning. Jose (UCSD) and Alex got into the water which was way to cold for me so I joined Juan (Cal State LA) and Beto on land. in the hour and a half we were there I was able to get a light tan but I wanted a bit more color mostly because I was inspired by my friend Mikey who just got himself a great tan at the beach just one week before.

Upon returning to the apartment, we settled down to watch Aladdin, only Jose was able to stay up through the whole thing. We ordered pizza too! I haven't had pizza in months, thanks guys! I was drunk and hungover by 8pm, I couldn't take it. I felt miserable and was not up for another night of partying. After a much needed nap, I drove Alex home and headed home.

Hanging out with them kept NAK on my mind. Their interaction reminded me of the fun times that I've had with my own fraternity brothers. A big thanks to you gentlemen for a great time, you guys are quality people.

Alex's Birthday Night

2008-03-30T18:05:00.000-07:00

Cobras and Matadors, The Abbey and Circus

This past Friday we celebrated Alex's birthday. The night started out with some great conversation over dinner at Cobras & Matadors in Los Angeles. I met some great people, including Saski who comes of extremely positive and full of life.

The night took a turn for the worst when a couple more of Alex's friends showed up. The restaurant wasn't booked to capacity yet made no effort to find us a bigger table to seat us all. The main reason that Alex chose that restaurant was because you can bring in your own alcohol; the only option left was to sit at the tables outside which is also the one place in the establishment where we couldn't drink the alcohol we brought. Bitches.

The service was awful, the quality of the food wasn't that great and I don't see myself going back there anytime soon.

We headed out to the Abbey for some light pre-party drinks. The plan was to head to Circus for soome dancing and drinks. The Abbey is always fun and people seemed to be enjoying themselves a lot but I was eager to get to Circus, being that it's my favorite club in LA.

Circus was fun! I ran into Alberto, I hadn't seen him since New Year's eve! The 818 Crew was there and they're always fun. There's some weird vibe between Danny and I. We didn't have any kind of falling out or anything, we just stopped talking and I'm playing that by ear but alas, no everyone, I don't have anything against Danny.

The Gammas were representing in full effect! Juan, Jose, Beto and Tony were there and uniquely representing a different chapter. I love networking and it's always fun to run into people who have had a similar experience. When I first met Tony he came off as standoffish but in getting to know him over a short while, he's just more quiet than others and so far a pretty good guy.

Timing is everything and last night was a perfect example. There's some weird friendship dynamic that Alex has with some people close to him. Tears were shed that night and not out of happiness. Everyone is protective about Alex including myself and despite the futile attempts to break him free of a confrontation he was having with a friend, Alex would not budge.

The night was saved however! Brotherhood really is strong with Alex. The Gammas salvaged the night by inviting Alex and I to the Gay Burrito. The night didn't end there. Apparently we made improvised plans for us to go tanning. Goodness, we're dorks.

To be continued...

Working it out!

2008-03-30T17:50:00.000-07:00

One of my goals for 2008 was to get healthy. Motivation can be tough to find...wait, no there's plenty of motivation around but it still hasn't been enough to get my butt to do something about it. It took me a couple of months into the new year before actually attempting anything, but here I am! I stepped it up with some supplements, drinking more water and hitting the gym at least 4 times a week.

Thanks to 24 Hour Fitness, I'm already seeing changes and I feel great! Kudos to me!

Honor Pac @ Club Cobra

2008-03-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago I served as part of the host committee for Honor Pac's (a political action coalition for gay Latinos) latest fundraiser held at Club Cobra. Javier Angulo, an old college buddy of mine was in charge of putting on this event and his hard work paid off. I was surprised by just how many people showed up to the event, I can't believe how supportive my friends were, then again, that's why I love them so much.

So many friends showed up and lots of money was raised for an organization I stand behind. Mikey and that fine ass friend of his Freddy showed up, both had fun from what I remember, ha ha. Major snaps to Carlos and Nelson for picking up Adolfo. A few of us headed to some diner that Alex recommended to quench the after party munchies, thanks for keeping us company Nelson!

Congratulations to Eduardo for winning the $40 bar tab! I knew you could do it!

It's time

2008-03-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

I think the time has finally come to say goodbye to Parsons and pursue a new path. My two years at the company has been rewarding for me in numerous ways. I've garnered a of experience at the corporate level and amassed numerous skills. I'll miss some of the more interesting people there, the long hours at the Major Proposal Center, working closely with the Finance Department and of course I'll be missing B and H the most. Yes, it's time! Me siento muy excited!

Team Hillary!

2008-03-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Join Team Hillary at
www.hillaryclinton.com

Negative = Positive

2008-03-19T16:45:00.000-07:00

It's done! Finally, I closed a dark chapter in my life and at the same time unlocked my freedom. I'm walking through life with my eyes open as if I'd been in a slumber for the last few months.

I'm approaching the people around me quite differently. I keep thinking about the relationships I have with people around me. While I've arrive at the realization that some I want to improve on, others die out, not because I don't care, but because of growing pains, growing apart and ultimately the consequences of adulthood's complexities. There are things I can't control. I can however let people know I love and miss them. Sometimes that along makes all the difference in the world.

I've given myself the authority to be free and be me. For me, that's more precious than the illusions I set myself up to believe. Life is great!

Hillary on HIV/AIDS

2008-03-19T00:07:00.000-07:00

This is substance. This is action. The choice is clear. She's been at the front lines fighting Republicans and advocating for highly pressing causes.

"Although all leading presidential candidates were invited, Clinton was the only one to show up for the annual Global Summit on AIDS and the Church. She delivered a bipartisan message that emphasized the role of the church in addressing AIDS."

Full text of Hillary's speech. http://www.hillaryclinton.com/news/speec h/view/?id=4455

Where's Obama in all of this? What has he done? The choice is clear.

Time to Buy Hillary Clinton

2008-03-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

Time to Buy Hillary Clinton

By John McIntyre

Three reasons why it may be wise to become bullish on Senator Clinton becoming the next U.S. President.

1) Senator Obama's "problem" in regards to his long-time pastor is a real issue. Brian Ross' report Thursday on Good Morning America, and more importantly the surfacing of the incendiary video(s), make this an explosive subject that will not go quietly away.

2) The very serious meltdown in the financial markets is likely to focus the country's attention on the health, stability and future of the American economy. Fairly or unfairly, Senator Clinton will benefit from her association with Bill Clinton's administration in the prosperous Nineties, and that perceived experience on the economy will stand in stark contrast to Senator Obama's dearth of experience.

3) The mostly unnoticed switch of Puerto Rico from a caucus on June 7 to a primary on June 1, gives Hillary Clinton a very real opportunity to surpass Barack Obama in the popular vote count. If Senator Clinton can "win" the popular vote, this will provide undecided superdelegates ample rationale to go with the less risky general election option of Senator Clinton.

Currently on Intrade Senator Clinton's odds to become the next president stand at 17.9%, down from a 2008 high of 47.5% on January 22. With Senator Obama unlikely to win another primary until May, it is time to be buying Hillary Clinton.

John McIntyre is the co-founder & President of RealClearPolitics. Email: john@realclearpolitics.com

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2008/03/time_to_buy_hillary_clinton.html

Classic Britney

2008-03-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

My favorite Britney performace ever!

From the 2001 MTV VMA's I'm a Slave for U

Results

2008-03-17T03:42:00.000-07:00

The Spot: Ideal Testing Location

2008-03-17T03:27:00.000-07:00

Free HIV and STD testing at the Spot

The Spot is an HIV and STD testing center providing examinations to everyone at no cost. They're operated through the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center is conveniently located at the heart of the West Hollywood Bar scene. They offer free and very thorough examinations in a walk-in basis. Make a day out of it by getting tested and following it up with some drinks with your friends!

THE SPOT

1743 N. San Vicente (right at Santa Monica Blvd.)

West Hollywood, Ca.
Phone: 323-993-7440

Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 1-7 p.m.

Gettin' Tested is Easy!

2008-03-17T03:12:00.001-07:00

EASY STEPS TO GETTING YOURSELF CHECKED

STEP ONE Grab some friends for moral support!

STEP TWO Walk-in

STEP THREE Take the tests

STEP FOUR Brush up on safe practices

STEP FIVE Get your results and your friends

STEP SIX Grab a beer!

Getting tested is a deeply personal experience. I chose to share the experience with two of my closest friends. Alex and Rosa made the experience easier on my nerves, especially as I discussed with them reasons for why I wanted to get tested in the first place. After I got my results we walked over to Fiesta Cantina for some drinks and cheese fries.

I urge you to find a local testing center near you, grab a few friends, get tested together and be there for one another right after you pick up your results and of course making it a great day by getting drunk!

Obama is No Leader, Case in Point: MI & FL

2008-03-12T17:45:00.000-07:00

Hillary Clinton wants the voices of the people in FL and MI to be heard. She believes that the results of the already held primaries should count or that a new election to supersede the previous result.

In Florida it was the Republican controlled legislature under a Republican Governor that moved up the election, not the people of the state.

Obama wants people to abide by the rules that the DNC had set. The answer is obvious. Rules are important to every society but not every rule is just and we must be conscious to what their intention are.

At one time it was rules that prevented blacks, women from voting. It was rules that prevented women from legally getting abortions. It took great leaders like Susan B. Anthony and Martin Luther King to standup against the establishment against to fight rules that went against the values this country was founded on.

A presidential nominee’s failure to disregard this injustice and disenfranchise millions of voters in order to gain every advantage possible in order to pursue his own political agenda is not leadership, it’s not democratic, it’s not America, and it’s not hope.

Our constitution is amendable and so should some rules in this country, especially if they aren’t just. One would imagine a candidate such as Obama who sells himself on being a candidate of change and a candidate of the people to be at the forefront speaking out against what is happening to the people’s voices in Florida and Michigan.

As an African-American, Obama should be sensitive to the historical roots that prevented his own people from actively participating in the democratic system. Obama often references the accomplishments of leaders like King and sometimes even compares his movement to King’s. Is Obama campaign honoring the life of King and his movement? How does he explain this to the millions of African-Americans and millions of other Americans living in these states? Or is this the kind of hope through politics we can expect from an Obama Presidency?

Just my thoughts,

Felipe O. Infante

HIV/STD Testing

2008-03-12T16:51:00.001-07:00

It's that time of the year again to walk into a cold room to get screened for HIV and STDs. The routine is similar but honestly it doesn't get any easier with age, each check up is just as if not scarier than the last. The prominent AIDS activism and awareness that was so string in the 80's and 90's is all but vanished. I think people seem to talk less and less about HIV and getting testing tested because HIV/AIDS isn't as fatal as it once was. Despite the advancements in modern medicine the virus is no friend of the immune system. Everyone must realize that one night of careless fun does not outweigh living the rest of your life with a the disease.

I'm not scared of getting tested, I'm scared of the results...but it's something I have to do for myself. I love having fun but I love myself more and to me. I'm priceless.

I urge you all to grab a buddy and get tested together. Bringing back this consciousness is crucial in changing the mindset of HIV and the global community is affects. If you aren;t comfortable with anyone knowing that you're being tested then take an anonymous test. Remember, most tests are free so there's no reason why you shouldn't get it done.

The L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center offers free HIV/STD Testing, click link for more details.
www.lagaycenter.org

If you don't live in the L.A. area then just run a simple google search to find the nearest testing center in your area.

Honor y Sabor

2008-03-11T23:19:00.001-07:00

Join me for a night of great people, yummy drinks and lots of fun as

Honor-Pac, a Political Action Coalition comprised of Gay Latino Men, invite you to

Honor y Sabor
Friday, March 14
Club Cobra
10937 Burbank Blvd.
North Hollywood, Ca.

Bring your friends and enjoy the music, dancing, raffles, giveaways, sexy go-go dancers, and wonderful drinks, what else do you need?! See you there!

Words can kill but they can also save

2008-03-11T23:15:00.001-07:00

Be a voice against violence.

Hell of a Hike

2008-03-11T22:28:00.001-07:00

My sanguis over exercise
Of course it's tough if you haven't hiked in years! A group of some friends and I joined the Pasadena Gayborhood monthly hiking event last month. The event took place in Glendale as Jorgie's motivation made me feel even more pumped about it. The enthusiasm was short lived, the morning was cold but as people started arriving it was like the more the merrier and it was a total upper.

Not even 15 minutes into the hike my ass was tired, in pain, and over it. Being younger than most of the crowd wasn't any kind of advantage because I was clearly out of shape especially in comparison to these professional hikers! The highlight of the day was enjoying the amazing view as we sat down to enjoy our lunch at the very end of the hike...or so we though....

Apparently the hike continued from the scenic view and it was our wrong to assume people were headed back to their cars. We wanted to take in the moment and our lunch! We felt like total losers after having sat for about half an hour to enjoy this scenic view and low and behold as we get to our cars we notice that the others had continued on an additional trailer.

Not my proudest moment but when was the last time you hiked? Alright then! In short, a great morning, Joel and Gerry got a little closer, Jorgie and I felt like old bitches, and Liz was pumped to go again even though she lagged more than the rest of us that day. Ain't it funny when we get so pumped about going again, if only we kept that motivation while we're actually doing it.

A Plan B comeback?

2008-03-11T01:32:00.000-07:00

I wanted to cut Dedan off completely. I thought if there was anyone I could turn to it would be Dedan, a guy who comes off confident, sincere, intelligent and good hearted. We had a moment of closeness that soon vanished after he made a recovery from things he needed to deal with. Instead of following my usual pattern of anger followed by bitterness, I walked away. He tried contacting me a couple of times but only after reading my blog and I certainly didn't want to talk to him just because he read things about himself. A dual sense of pride and indifference made it easy to walk away. Look, I don't need friends who don't make the time for friendships or much less, who aren't there when it really counts. Fake friends, is the term right? The friendship Dedan and I had wasn't fake, it was genuine (I want to believe anyway), but I got the feeling he didn't care to be friends and my suspicions were backed up his actions a few times over.

Dedan paid me a call, early on the conversation was headed into acting like everything was okay when it clearly wasn't. I made my feelings clear and he was receptive to my words. He's not the type of person who would intentionally hurt someone's feelings, but I do think that he is careless about some friendships. In fact, I tried inviting him out for drinks sometime next week knowing that he was expecting friends from out of town this weekend, and of course...he said maybe, opting for doing a weekend of nothing so he can recover. Has nothing changed? I thought he understood. I thought he already recovered. Am I going to be put on the back burner subjected to his mundane excuses of already having plans, tending to his friends, going out of town, or needing to take a weekend off so he can recover from life?

I ended the conversation by challenging him to follow up with the drinks thing if he really did want to be friends. I refuse and won't be a stand by friend to anyone. I would love to keep Dedan as a friend, but if it's not meant to be there's no reason to force it. We're both grown enough to realize that we don't need to be clutter in each other's lives.

It looks bleak but if Hillary can make a comeback then why not Plan B?

Whatever you're into...

2008-03-09T19:52:00.000-07:00

Live long enough to find the right one. Protect yourself.

Whatever you're into, protect yourself.

Have safe and have fun. Protect yourself.

These videos are French public service announcements carrying an important message in a funny and enjoyable way. I hope you watch and take their content to heart.

My family has grown!

2008-03-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

Kudos to the Mighty Mighty Zeta Chapter as the actives welcomed a new class of men to our distinguished line of brotherhood.

What an amazing ride it's been for them and I'm sure the memories they'll create through NAK from now on are moments they'll keep with them for the rest of their lives.

Welcome Omicron Class!

Fun fun fun at Circus

2008-03-09T14:58:00.000-07:00

Friday kicked of an great weekend! Cortez invited me out to dinner with some friends but was unable to make it because of time constraints so we met up for drinks at Club Cobra. I picked up Alex and Adolfo, the latter who I haven't hung out with in about a month.

Cobra was an just okay, definitely a good place to pre-party but certainly not a place to meet people, dance and enjoy the luxury of after hours. Shortly after Cortez and the crew consisting of Freddy, Anthony, Peter, and a couple of their other friends, we opted out of Cobra for Circus. Mike's buddies soon followed of course, we did our best to try to convince and thank goodness because last week at Cobra just wasn't as much fun as I had hoped it would be.

Circus was so much fun! From the minute we got there I saw so many familiar faces, Steve, James, Marty, J'hon, Teo, Tony and so many others. It still weird as hell just how interconnected we all are. We're bound by current and former friendships, ex-loves, hook-ups, acquaintances and various other situations that should for common decency not be detailed, ha ha!

I was trashed but I did get to have a heart to heart with Chris, Cam's former roommate. I'm not sure if I'm ready to describe what was spoken of, but I misjudged him. I kind of feel like Hillary Clinton's whole voting for the war deal. Hillary made her judgment based on the intelligence information that Bush and the UK had provided. Who could ever imagine a president manipulating national security intelligence to advance his personal political agenda? Of course, I judged Chris based on the fucked up things the asshole would say about him, but alas...I'm glad I got to finally understand Chris.

I'm a hardcore Hillary supporter but I didn't know just how profound my support is. It's actually kind of scary. You have no idea how many conversations/arguments I got into with of course, me initiation the conversation with "Are you on Team Hillary or Team Obama?" ha ha! I'd like to apologize to Estuardo's friend whom I totally got irate with.

Freddy and I always tease Mike about what a big bottom he is. Luckily for Mike, I'm glad the guy he's seeing hasn't sat on his face because THAT would be the end of him! But I guess if you have to go, it's better than it's quick although perhaps not as clean as I'd imagine. More drinks and many conversations latter it was time to go. I had an interesting encounter with Marty, I think we may be headed to a recovery. It was great seeing Mike D! I love that guy, I can't wait to hang out with him some more.

I ended up taking a much needed cat nap at Adolfo's place and wow! He has the best apartment ever, I totally dig it! I just may be spending more lounge time there if he ever needs company.

The Gemini

2008-03-07T14:31:00.001-08:00

Life's tests are but a preparation for tomorrow's challenges. Though I've conquered many of those challenges, I didn't come to be victorious without casualties motivated by my envious, prideful and largely weak self. Intensity rises and I reacted. My innate response to conquer knows not the difference between friend or foe. I recoil, my will blurs these lines which exist in a deep gray area that yields in my favor for this amorphous pool results in an opportunity to strike...

I am infamous for destruction of happiness and our relationship. I am vulgar. Some choices I made out of survival and pride; deep within there exists a dark spot in my soul that I fear may be with be for the rest of my life. Sometimes I hate myself. There has to be a way to redeem myself but even if so, things won't ever be the same. My deepest condolences to you, the victim of your foolish good heart as it walked through the path of my destruction.

Victimized by my deception, my own soul remains a slave to these moments that define who I am. Life's daily struggles bare witness to a war placing my demons against the inner man who knows good but seldom practices it. With my salvation at stake, I rise to face endless hours of this epic battle to free myself from the chains of who I was and worse, who I am terrified to be.

The Comeback, I told you so!

2008-03-05T00:56:00.001-08:00

As predicted, a major Hoorah for Hillary: A Clinton Comeback!
Sergio, Mikey, Alex, Spike - what a bunch a dopes!
She's just getting warmed up fellas...don't f*ck with her! Bitches get sh*t done!

I'm rich b*tch!

2008-03-04T20:33:00.000-08:00

The gifts you bring
You make me a wealthy person for giving yourself the authority to be incredible people. Through you I learn, I grow and I am one step closer in finding myself and getting to where I want to be.

I remain strong and optimistic because of the friendships that have been made stronger in these last few weeks.

The gifts you bring to my life are the nutrients I need to get through each day and the inspiration that guides me to reach for my dreams.

Tarsi (honor), Spike (optimism), Roxy (sensitivity), Alex (character), Carmen (joy), Nydia (understanding), Elkin (humility), Nelson (genuineness), Abel (drive), Jorgie (diligence), Rosa (trust) I love you.

Goodbye...

2008-03-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

Everything has changed...
The journey I've been walking on has challenged me in ways that have tested my character and resolve. I honestly can't say that the end result has made me a better person. The growing pains of friendships are continuously tested. Some of these relationships are solidified while others fade into the shadows. Things have changed...I have to be a man and must recognize that while my heart believes one thing, my mind and common sense tell me otherwise.

I know it's time to say goodbye...

A lot on my mind

2008-03-03T22:15:00.000-08:00

Commissions, board meetings, town halls, committees, reports, minutes-I can't live like this!

Over the past couple of weeks I've been feeling more overwhelmed with things in life. It feels as though perhaps I have been taken on more than I'm ready to admit I can handle. Is there a need for such demanding involvement? I miss coming home from work, lounging for a few hours then hitting the gym and calling it a night. My routine has changed drastically and rest has become much more elusive than before.

Perhaps I'm suffering from Primary fatigue. I'm deeply involved in this election campaign with an excitement that I haven't felt since Al Gore's campaign in 2000. The stress of Hillary's campaign has loomed heavy in my mind and it's been next to impossible to shake off this pensive state. I hope she can pull through...I've done my part in spreading the message so now it's up to the people of Texas, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Vermont to weigh in on this discussion.

I'm lucky to be entrusted with responsibility and for working on projects that directly impact the people in my community, I know that this will grant me further awareness and experience that I'll need to be a better person.

A Quarterlife Roxstar

2008-03-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

Roxane: Amazing Legs and Simply Amazing at 25!
Thanks for the great night, Christopher Lawrence is off the chain! Any place that has straight men dancing with each other is okay with me, especially if they're hot. This one's for you Rox, HAPPY BERFDAY my fabulous friend!

International Gymnast Magazine: Mexico's Elsa Garcia Deserves Final Olympic Slot

2008-03-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

Stretching Out: Olympic Wild Card?
My vote goes to Elsa Garcia of Mexico

One spot remains open for the 2008 Olympics for both men and women. The other 97 berths for each gender were determined by the results of the 2007 World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. Here's how they were allotted.

1-72: top 12 teams (six gymnasts per team)
73-78: two gymnasts each from teams ranked 13th, 14th and 15th
79-81: one gymnast each from teams ranked 16th, 17th and 18th
82-90: 1 gymnast (per federations other than those mentioned above) based on all-around ranking from Competition I (preliminaries)
91-94: apparatus gold medalists; supplemented by Competition I ranking if gold medalists were already qualified by previous criteria
95-97: three gymnasts designated by FIG Executive Committee with consideration to continental representation
98: Wild card, allocated by the Tripartite Commission (FIG, IOC and Association of National Olympic Committees)

In an effort to expand global participation at the Olympics, the selection system fails to ensure the highest level of competition possible at the games. In gymnastics, for sure, it is often harder to win a medal at a world championships than at the Olympics. The last three female gymnasts to "earn" a berth to Beijing scored between 51.350-51.875 in Stuttgart. Their prelim rankings were 83rd, 84th and 91st.

Elsa Garcia of Mexico scored 52.775, basically without the use of one leg. But her teammate Marisela Cantu tallied 53.350 and received an Olympic invite in the 82-90 group. With Mexico already represented, Garcia is caught in a difficult position.

I can only hope the Tripartite Commission understands and recognizes Garcia's true value when it selects the final woman to go to Beijing in August. That wasn't the real Garcia in Stuttgart, the one who scored a bronze-medal winning 60.200 at the 2007 American Cup. In her wake were Elyse Hopfner-Hibbs (Canada), Zhou Zhuoru (China), Daria Joura (Australia), Kristina Pravdina (Russia) and Daria Zgoba (Ukraine). That's a pretty talented field.

In the following months Garcia won seven medals at World Cup events in Paris (silver on floor, bronze on vault); Cottbus (golds on bars and floor, bronze on vault); and Ghent (silvers on vault and floor). Garcia won these medals against numerous world-class gymnasts, virtually all of whom will compete with their full teams in Beijing.

Just four days before the start of the World Championships in Stuttgart, however, Garcia sustained a serious leg injury that would require an extended break — but not until after she limped through four routines in Stuttgart.

"It hurt every time I put pressure on it," she recently told IG. "Walk, run, jump, land. After worlds I stopped my gymnastics training for almost three months."

At the 2006 Worlds in Aarhus, Denmark, Garcia's 33rd place in prelims would have made her the top individual qualifier with room to spare. But in Stuttgart, Garcia gamely competed with a torn psoas muscle, which extends from the lower back to the pelvis. After rehabilitation, which included swimming, cycling and cardiovascular exercise, Garcia is healthy again. She's also receiving national support for the wild card berth to Beijing.

"The National Commission of Sport and the Mexican Olympic Committee are supporting my case," says the 18-year-old from Monterrey, who is coached by Antonio Barraza and Teresa Lopez. "Mexico had never supported an athlete that was not automatically ranked to go, so this is the exception."

Garcia is a worthy exception to any rule that suggests Mexico shouldn't have two gymnasts in Beijing. She deserves to compete in the Olympics because she's a medal contender in more than one event. Her presence would make a positive difference in the competition.

For now, though, it's a waiting game. "The announcement will be done by the IOC," one FIG official told me recently. "Like you, we're waiting for the decision."

Says Garcia: "I am supposed to get an answer between March and May. I really hope they grant me a place in the Olympics."

So do I. Elsa Garcia deserves the chance to make the 2008 Olympics, because she'll make them even better.

Check out International Gymnast at
www.intlgymnast.com

Hillary, the Fighter: It's not Over!

2008-02-28T17:27:00.001-08:00

March 4th: A Clinton Comeback! A Hoorah for Hillary!
An amazing woman with leadership, experience and courage, who has the solutions through action for America. Get the message out to Texas, Ohio, Rhode Island and Vermont! Get on board and be the change you wish to see in the world!

Make calls, contribute, & spread the message! Join Team Hillary at
www.hillaryclinton.com

Picture of the Week

2008-02-28T16:51:00.001-08:00

Sigma Beta Mu: Flip, Tarsi and Jason, a NAK-pack

Phone time

2008-02-28T16:29:00.001-08:00

Being on the phone is possibly the most annoying thing in the world for me (aside from Republicans of course). Most of you know that my phone is usually off preferring to communicate via email, AIM or myspace, it's what works for me and I'm going with it. I receive several text messages from numbers that I don't recognize. I don't even know who was asking me earlier today about any hot spots in Santa Barbara. Yes, it's true, I only have about 15 numbers stored on my phone and I've had this particular one for over a year and a half. I don't even charge the stupid thing therefore I keep misplacing it for days straight without ever realizing it. Sick, right?

Change may be on the horizon. I've had the best talks with Spike in recent days. Speaking with that guy is a total upper for me, mostly because of the kind of guy he is and the energy that exudes. I love his sincerity and thank him for his genuine interest in checking in with me to see how I'm doing. I've only seen Spike trashed one time and boy, I'm talking chunks! Here's hoping that Vegas is still in the cards for his berfday and if not, an overdue trip to the bay will happen sooner than later.

Sergio, wow, this guy is a total bad-ass. His dedication to his career and politics is fascinating and refreshing. Despite the fact that he too is on Team Obama, he's stated many times that he'll support the eventual Democratic nominee as I plan to do as well. This guy is in love with his community and with the country, I don't question his commitment to his politics and applaud his many efforts. This past year has been incredibly hectic for me and sometimes the frustration can be more overwhelming than I've been prepared to handle. Sergio has completely mastered how to excel in the job sector as well as in the various organizations that he's involved with. What's most amazing to me is that every time I see this guy, he has the happiest disposition on full display. Our conversation yesterday was just what I needed. If there is a future in politics for me, Sergio will be the ideal adviser for a campaign.

I'll give turning my phone on more often.

Pride of Mexico: Gymnast Elsa Garcia

2008-02-27T23:38:00.000-08:00

Mexico's rising star, gymnast Elsa Garcia is by far the greatest gymnast that this country has ever produced. She was born February 8th 1990 in Monterrey México at the "Ginequito" Hospital. Where Mexico's notable gymnasts have been successful on one or two particular events, Garcia has mastered all 4 events to Olympic caliber. Already, Garcia has won numerous medals in the international circuit having already defeated some of the best gymnasts in the world. A leg stress fracture kept her from performing at her peak at last year's World Championships which serve as the official qualification for the Olympic Games in Beijing therefore was unable to qualify as an individual.

Garcia has a long future in the sport if she choses to continue for the next few years. Mexico could definitely benefit from her experience and difficult skills.

I look forward to seeing this talented gymnast further her career a few years and possibly hold out until the next Olympic Games.

You can visit Elsa Garcia's official page at
www.regioclub.com.mx/Elsa/

Read a full interview of Elsa at International Gymnast Magazine
http://www.intlgymnast.com/news/2006/dec/123006_garcia.html

Without your camera you are nothing!

2008-02-27T22:29:00.000-08:00

That's what Marty told me once which I think was true for the most part. Life sucks now without my camera it broke and I haven't taken as many pictures as I've wanted to so far this year. I miss my camera and capturing happy moments with friends and loved ones.

I'll have to save up for a new camera. Rats!

Have you heard of Staaaaanford?

2008-02-27T21:36:00.000-08:00

That's how we met, I felt like such a dumb ass. He totally checked me! There was some initial eye contact and I made my way over towards him to engage in small talk. I was checked!!! Keith totally returned my serve by letting me know who he was after I tried making a point that I wasn't some uneducated Latino guy at Akbar. Why the need for such sass, who knows! I was trying to be funny but maybe also secretly wanting him to see me in a special way. I'll be honest, some gay white dudes make me feel incredibly insecure and I pegged Keith for being one of these pretentious and superficial dudes (of course now I know that many latinos can be far more terrible). Where did my Keith go?

Can I just say that Keith is my favorite white-Mexican ever?! Not only does this guy have an incredible work ethic, but he's very much into physical fitness. He's got a thing for the brown boys and Tarsi was always fond of Keith's looks and muscles. Why isn't he rubbing off on me? He might be just the connection that Alex needs in landing a promising job in Keith's company. It's all premature of course but Alex is enthusiastic and Keith is too but for reasons that will stay between Keith and I. Have I mentioned that both of them are Stanford Alumni? I think a happy hour night is definitely in the cards for the three of us in the near future. I'll be sure to also invite someone who went to UCR or some Cal State so that I don't feel so overwhelmed, ha ha!

My friendship with Keith has suffered tremendously over the past year. Hanging out with Keith and his friends at Formosa was an memorable for so many reasons! The place was a smashing good time, the company extremely fun and well...we're due for a night of madness.

Keith is a former NCAA gymnast competing for Stanford University. Here's a glimpse into one of his many talents.

Just keep writing, just keep writing...

2008-02-27T21:13:00.000-08:00

Marty, the person who originally motivated me to start a blog, is leaving Los Angeles and moving back to San Francisco. His stint in LA wasn't so great from what he was telling me and I'm sad that we didn't get a proper goodbye. I will say that hanging out with him is a whole lot of fun! Great times at Faultline and at Le Barcito! Thank you for the advice, I'll miss you!

Something inside is changing, I've allowed myself to be vulnerable more so than I have been for the last year. These blogs may not be as deep as I'd like them to be just yet, but they have allowed me the space and freedom to immerse myself in thoughts and process my thinking through this open channel. Talking about my feelings sometimes isn't enough, I've been in open book. Yes, I've been holding back.

This is my journey and being in control of my writing is an added bonus in having my own blog. The need to release and cry has become less intense. I feel myself growing in confidence, creativity and ability. It's going to be a great year!

Defining a Fruit Loop

2008-02-27T03:01:00.001-08:00

Directions: Meet at a specific West Hollywood bar, you gather, drink move to next bar, drink, group grows, move to next bar, drinks, more friends come, move to next bar, more drinks, more friends until you've hit up all the bars!

Simply: bars, drinks, their friends, more bars, more drinks, repeat many times over!

Rule #1: bring cash, a camera, friends and their friends
Rule #2 :everyone must have at least 1 alcoholic beverage at each bar location!
Rule #3 : Flip serves as official time keeper
Rule #4: hit up all the bars in WeHo

Green eyed Mike: Riddle me this

2008-02-27T02:08:00.000-08:00

Mikey Mikey Mikey...

My circle of best friends are randomly born from unconventional situations. There's usually alcohol involved. Mikey I met through an old friend, David and initially I didn't know what to make of this introduction mostly because I was charming (drunk). Mikey, do you understand the riddle now? There were no apples!

There's nothing but love and admiration for this guy. Mikey is unique because he genuinely cares for the well being of people and reminds has an uncanny similarity to my Councilwoman, Jacque Robinson, both being great listeners who truly and patiently care to hear and understand people. Mike's tired of my propaganda but I think he loves it that I'm so passionate about my girl, Hillary. I don't blame Mikey for following Obama. He's drawn to Obama like one of the little rats under the spell of the musical sounds in the story of the Pied Piper! I thought you knew better, Mikey, weren't you poli sci at UCLA?! If you need tips on how to distinguish between beautiful sounds and actual substance give me a holler! :)

We've decided to press forward and plan a fruit loop in March and Freddy will also be a co-host! Stay tunned for invites!

Friends with talent: Raul Batiz

2008-02-27T01:03:00.001-08:00

Fotografias de Mexico
Take a unique look at this culturally rich country through the eye of talented photographer Raul Batiz. This collection of photographs were captured during a cross country trip of Mexico and were recently featured during his first gallery exhibition this past fall and now I have the honor of sharing some of his work with you.

Not only am I totally amazed by his eye for beautiful shots, but I'm equally impressed by their brilliance through his perfect use of light and color. Great job Raul!

To learn more about Raul Batiz and his works please visit
www.raulbatiz.com

Turning things upside down

2008-02-25T21:14:00.000-08:00

I look in the mirror and sometimes I don't like what I see. My flaws are quite evident, I'm reactive, impatient, judgmental, and terribly negative. There's a lot more that I know I need to work on and writing in this short span has given me some clarity. Not only am I seeing growth through my writing, but I'm learning to step outside my box and see me through the eyes of others.

The comment that this supposed friend made hurt my feelings and obviously pissed me off more than I was ready to admit. However, there's growth that has already manifested itself within me.

Through his words I'm able to realize that I've been a hater many times over. Why have I been blind to these inadequacies? There's a difference between constructive criticism and complete hating on something just because I have no appreciation for it. It's time I grow up and support people, especially my friends who seek an honest opinion and my support. Words are hurtful and I don't to be the person who discourages people from pursuing their path.

It is with this mindset that I welcome the opinion from the person who I wrote about in the blog below. Through your words I've realized that you're the person I don't ever want to be: a negative asshole.

Hater

2008-02-25T14:20:00.000-08:00

i don't know what's worse...you for writing it...or people taking the time to actually read it...-Name Withheld for Maturity Reasons

There are so many assholes out there and let's face it, these people are haters for no damn reason. How dare someone I thought was a friend criticize the intention of this blog which include some deeply personal thoughts. This isn't an easy thing to do, it takes a lot of balls for someone to put their thoughts out there for people to see knowing that you will be judged. I've made it clear that I'm no writer and that this blog is a means to express my perspective and share these thoughts with you. Already I've encountered my very first put down. He did it Out of love yeah right. Kiss my ass out of love! I assure you, it's nothing more than water off my back. Shit, if we all stopped our lives and passions just because someone disproves of the endeavors we've chosen to undertake, then we'd be weak and unaccomplished beings.

I feel comfortable with who I am and what I chose to put out there. If that makes me a geek, fag or loser then so be it. Oh yes, and if it appears I have a lot of time on my hands like this person also suggested, then maybe its true. I work hard, I'm involved with my community, I make time to hangout, support and party with my friends, and I know damn well I make a difference.

So I'll keep dancing and doing my thing like the little bumblebee girl in the Blind Melon No Rain video!

Rock on weirdos, geeks, outcasts and all you artists out there!

Missing you...

2008-02-25T02:23:00.001-08:00

Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart. -Eleanor Roosevelt

What do you do when your soul hurts? I've been mourning the loss of two friends for far too long. Through this writing I'm hoping to let go of this pain and heal these wounds. These friends didn't pass away, but they have chosen a path that I am no in. It's difficult to open my heart, I'm so full of shit and pain that it's hard for me to understand myself. I'll try as best as I can.

UCSB experience blessed me with incredible opportunities and paths that someway or another connected me to some of the most amazing people I've met thus far in life. In fact, my closest friends today I met at UCSB and not in the most conventional ways.

Nancy (pictured at top) was one of my closest friends circa 2001. Her and I were both going through an awful year for differing reasons. She was stability and I was her confidant. That year was incredibly fun as college should be sometimes. We were inseparable all summer and really bonded through our shared pain and willingness to rise above it. Nancy and I drifted apart but we did try and keep the lines of communication open although I think both of us dropped the ball for personal reasons.

Three months ago I received an email from Nancy letting me know that she's now married and that despite her love for me, she doesn't approve of my lifestyle and for that very reason our paths must go in separate ways. I've never had to face loosing a friend because of my sexuality. Why is being gay an issue all of a sudden, it's not like I was ever trying to sleep with a boyfriend of hers or anything. She was perfectly comfortable and open to understanding who I was back then. A devout Jehovah's Witness now, Nancy isn't the same person I first met. I believe her faith has everything to do with why she's decided to terminate our friendship. It hurts but despite the pain I hope she's happy with her choices in life and wish her no ill will.

Taylor (2nd picture) is by far one of the most accomplished friends I've ever met. Her intelligence is equally complemented by her amazing drive. Taylor was the 1st person I ever met in a UCSB class when we both enrolled in the transitional program during the summer of 1998. Taylor can be intrepid, intimidating and vulnerable all at the same time. Taylor is the type of person I never have to worry about, she has incredible head on her shoulders and the will to back up her aspirations with action.

It's no wonder Taylor and I lost touch. She's participated in Peace Corps, countless research opportunities across the world, and an awesome Master's program in Michigan. Wherever she is, I miss her and welcome her friendship with open arms. I miss her in my life. It's been about 3 years since we last spoke and I hope that changes sometime very soon.

Taking things back to NAK

2008-02-25T02:15:00.001-08:00

Talented, driven, unique, ambitious, sincere, caring, intelligent, family: my brothers, the Distinguished Gentleman of Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity.

Thank you for the laughs, tears, support, trust and moments that I'll take with me to the end.

Sexism in America: Britney & Hillary

2008-02-25T01:46:00.001-08:00

Peter and Paris
vs.
Britney and Flip

Leave Britney alone! -Chris Crocker

I'm so furious, I could just eat! We've all seen Britney's cooter but what you aren't aware of is that it wasn't her who originated the infamous pose. Peter Griffin was first to show his plingis to the West Hollywood paparazzi yet no one made a spectacle of it. A few weeks later in a similar situation, Britney accidentally flashes britbrit and instantly an international scandal erupts! Why do men get all the breaks in society. No one is talking about the coalition between the elite of our society and the media to keep women down! It's unfair, unjust and it stinks!

Let's break these issues down and hash out this conversation as Texas and Ohio get ready to vote on March 4th. Help end sexism, you have the power to bring a more gender balanced America to the forefront of our national culture. Support Hillary Clinton!

There will be a new Bush in the White House and it belongs to Hillary Clinton! -Flip

Join, contribute and support Hillary at www.hillaryclinton.com

Athletic A$$ets: Nadal vs. Weiss

2008-02-25T01:34:00.001-08:00

Rafael Nadal (tennis pro) and Michael Weiss (figure skater) are known for their incredible athleticism and sheer powerful moves, however, most people will also notice (it's hard not to) that these two handsome men also pack some serious junk in their trunk. Who's got the nicer tush? Enjoy.

Let's take a long walk...

2008-02-25T01:10:00.001-08:00

Los Angeles 2008

Saturday, April 26, 2008
The Rose Bowl, Pasadena

Register at
www.walknowforautism.org

Grab your walking shoes and bottled water! Join me for a walk this Spring and let's make a difference together. Walk Now is the leading benefit for Autism research and awareness. My hometown of Pasadena will be hosting this year's LA Autism Walk. Come for the tan and stay for a wonderful day of activities and fun.

Walk Now for Autism, the nation's largest grassroots autism walk program, is Autism Speaks' signature fundraising and awareness event, taking place in communities across the United States, as well as in Canada and the United Kingdom. Powered by volunteers and families with loved ones on the autism spectrum, this successful grassroots fundraising effort not only generates vital funds for autism research but also raises awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism and the need for increased research funding to combat this complex disorder.

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in 1 in 150 children in the United States, affecting four times as many boys as girls. The diagnosis of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown.

Tina Fey on Hillary Clinton

2008-02-24T17:14:00.001-08:00

Saturday Night Live's Tina Fey on Hillary Clinton

Get it for Tina Fey speaking the truth on Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update. Why are women bitches and men leaders? Guys are assholes! Let's Keep this momentum going and help out our girl! It's not too late, get on board Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania!

On relationships

2008-02-24T03:41:00.000-08:00

Later that day I got to thinking about relationships. There are those that open you up to something new and exotic, those that are old and familiar, those that bring up lots of questions, those that bring you somewhere unexpected, those that bring you far from where you started, and those that bring you back. But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you you love, well, that's just fabulous. -Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City

You're Still the One

2008-02-23T22:56:00.001-08:00

Most love songs are about the joy and excitement of falling in love while the other half are about agony and pain of eventual breakups. There's more to relationships than just a beginning and end, so where are those songs?

Shania Twain's You're Still the One is my favorite song of all time. It's about celebrating love that's still going strong. If more songs had this message would the psychology of people in relationships change and actually help some relationships and marriages last longer?

It's beautiful, inspiring and the way I think love feels like.

You're Still The One
(When I first saw you, I saw love.
And the first time you touched me, I felt love.
And after
all this time, you're still the one I love.)
Looks like we made it
Look how far we've come my baby
We mighta took the long way
We knew we'd get there someday

They said, "I bet they'll never make it"
But just look at us holding on
We're still together still going strong

(You're still the one)
You're still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You're still the one I want for life
(You're still the one)
You're still the one that I love
The only one I dream of
You're still the one I kiss good night

Ain't nothin' better
We beat the odds together
I'm glad we didn't listen
Look at what we would be missin'

They said, "I bet they'll never make it"
But just look at us holding on
We're still together still going strong

(You're still the one)
You're still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You're still the one I want for life
(You're still the one)
You're still the one that I love
The only one I dream of
You're still the one I kiss good night

(You're still the one)
You're still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You're still the one I want for life
(You're still the one)
You're still the one that I love
The only one I dream of
You're still the one I kiss good night

Alex

2008-02-23T22:27:00.000-08:00

It's time to talk about Alex. A little under 4 years ago I met an amazing guy who I instantly clicked with and eventually fell head over heals for. A student at Stanford, in my eyes, Alex had it all: good looks, amazing heart, intelligence and a great personality. We went out a couple of times but it didn't take long for us to decided on making things official. There was chemistry and there were fireworks! We a lot of laughs, but then we also fought...and fought...and fought. We're like minded in a lot of ways, both similarly stubborn, opinionated, and terribly reactive. I always held back with Alex because I was conscious that our summer romance would end once he headed back to Stanford while I'd be heading back to UCSB. I stopped trying because, well...in someways I wanted things to fail because I don't think I'd be able to handle a long distance relationship, especially if I were in love. He's such an amazing person, I'd never want him too far from me. It wouldn't be the 1st time I've sabotaged a relationship with someone. Things ended but I always knew we would be friends and that time has finally arrived.

Since 2004 there were sporadic moments of communication between us. He needed time and I understood that an immediate friendship wouldn't happen even if i tried to will it. A recent college graduate, Alex has moved back to Burbank we've been hanging out a lot. Going out to clubs was difficult at first because I would get jealous when he was approached by other guys but that quickly evaporated. We've become close and genuine friends. I love Alex, he's one of my best friends now and it's been sooo much fun hanging out at clubs, coffee shops and everywhere else in between. Our conversations are deep and we do turn to each other for guidance and advice. I especially turn to check out that huge bubble butt of his (its hard not to stare at it) I don't think he minds it just yet.

It's funny that he thinks so highly of my friends because the friends that have met him think equally highly of him. I do have a great circle of friends and Alex is finally where he belongs again, in my heart alongside my friends and family.

Taking things back...

2008-02-23T21:55:00.000-08:00

Kwani, Michi, MK, Michelle

2008-02-23T21:27:00.001-08:00

Sacred possession; my very own shrine and source of motivation that was inspired by the Julie Newmar picture in To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar

Thank you for the picture Michelle!

A moment of gratitude

2008-02-23T21:03:00.000-08:00

Alex's comment about my friends kept me very pensive and for great reasons. I have the most wonderful friends in the world. Not only are these people caring but they're also extremely talented beings! The best thing about them is that all of my friends get along with each other even if they've just met. It's never a dull time with these guys.

Two snaps to you all for being the sunshine in my life!

Circus, here we go again

2008-02-23T20:11:00.000-08:00

Jorgie and Antonio, my fraternity brothers from Santa Barbara wanted to hit up Circus on Friday night and invited me to come along. It was great pre-partying with Jorgie at a hotel, it gave us a chance to catch up. He just returned from Hawaii not too long ago and his tan looks amazing! He's doing really well and he seems very happy, which I love. He's definitely shining. Antonio and his boyfriend showed up to prep-arty as did Alex who, once again, caved in to peer pressure and decided to join the drinking fun.

Have you ever noticed how rushed everything seems when you drink? So much went down in such a short time. I run into Joe and reminded him of last weekend when he got drunk and told me off. Once again, he delivered. He got drunk and told me off. Not a good pattern but I love the guy just the same, but I refuse to be his drunk punching bag.

Of course it wasn't long before I lost my friends. Alex where'd you go!? As usual I was making the rounds at Circus, greeting friends, meeting new people, catching up with acquaintances and buying a drink in between.

I ran into Mikey who I haven't been a really good friend to. I haven't made the attempt to communicate with him. The thing about Mikey is that he's an over-achiever. The guy is amazing. He has a beautiful daughter and still busted his ass off to earn his BA and Master's degree. Mike's always been a go-getter. He's the perfect, guy hard working, attractive, a great outlook in life, driven and kind. I need to hangout with him more, not from guilt, but because I love the guy. I've known him since 1994 and since we reconnected in 2002, he's remained a source of motivation. Mikey: thank you for being my confidant and a source of inspiration!

Marty. Marty and I have been bumping into one another these last few rounds at Circus. Every time I see him I want to give him the biggest hug. We weren't the greatest friends to each other, but there was a lot of love there. He's got this great energy about him and he makes life so much more fun. If you know me, then you know how pissy and irritable I can get, especially when things don't go to plan, but that's life and Marty helped me understand that to some degree. I took our falling out very hard but maybe it's what needed to happen for me to realize that I genuinely love and care for the guy. We're having dinner in the next week or so, I hope things go well, I know there's a lot we have to talk about. Like, who he fell in love with recently...that was some drama last night.

Alex's fraternity brothers are fun guys, especially Anthony. We had a fun conversation and he made a wonderful impression. I'm glad him and I finally had an opportunity to talk. I'm so glad Alex has great guys in his life.

Dedan was there too. Our exchange was a brief wave of the hand. I haven't really heard from him lately and God knows I've tried to communicate with him. I keep wondering if it was a short-lived friendship that just suffered a sudden death, I sure hope not. He's a great guy with an awesome heart. Him and I became close a few weeks back. We swapped a lot of stories and I'm hopeful that we'll have more stories to share in the near future.

If you're reading this then you've noticed I've been mentioning Alex quite often. He's been my best friend for the last month or so. We're always going out and having a blast! He's grown a lot, especially his butt. It's a wonder he doesn't tip backwards. Alex paid me one of the nicest compliments last night. He told me that I have an amazing circle of friends in my life. I thought about it for a quick second...YES! I really do! Damn, I'm so damn lucky! Two anaps to all my friends, especially those who I got to see last night!

Jorgie, thanks for the room and especially for that gift you brought back from Hawaii for me! Now I can clutch the pearls next time someone says something shocking!

Art immitating life?

2008-02-22T01:35:00.000-08:00

Time to start doing crunches...Ok, I'm starting Monday.

Pride of Mexico: Priscila Perales, Miss International 2007

2008-02-22T01:19:00.000-08:00

Introducing Priscila Perales, Miss International 2007

You can learn about about this International Beauty Queen at
www.priscilaperales.com

Espiki espanich

2008-02-22T01:03:00.000-08:00

Bigots in America. The sad part is, some people really do treat hired help this way. Maybe it's not this extreme out in the open, but the mentality is there. Let's hope that this type of comedy helps people be less narrow minded.

It's a great short sketch. Enjoy and share!

Quote

2008-02-22T00:38:00.000-08:00

I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge. That myth is more potent than history. That dreams are more powerful than facts. That hope always triumphs over experience. That laughter is the only cure for grief. And I believe that love is stronger than death.
-Robert Fulghum

A friend's grandmother recently passed away. I sensed something tragically wrong before he actually told me what had happened. It's more than just a passing he had to endure. Death is hard enough without having to deal with complex family feuds that make it next to impossible to mourn peacefully. I'm not the best listener, but I felt an emotional connection and internalized some of his pain. I felt compelled to try offering some comfort and so I read him a quote that I came across online. These simplest of words ring basic and true to what's important to me in my own life. The quote inspired me and I can hope they brought him some comfort.

Rain rain, thank you, come again

2008-02-22T00:18:00.000-08:00

Rain is the perfect. I enjoy everything about it. I love the way the rain smells during and after. The sound of rain droplets hitting rooftops is especially delightful. The smell and sound make the day peaceful and oh so soothing. Most people hate being out in the rain but not me, I even like getting caught in the rain. Unexpected rainfall is always welcomed. Even back in 8th grade, anytime it would rain I would head straight to this quaint comic book store in Old Town Pasadena, find an empty corner and read some comic books. It seemed to perfect. Life, just like our weather seems so much more complicated now. It's much tougher to enjoy the rain, the news seems to think there's either too much or not enough of it. I'm not nor have ever been a sunshine and warm weather type of person. Give me cold, cloudy, windy, and rainy weather and I'll be happy. You might even find me at a bookstore, reading the latest issue of Newsweek in some corner of the store (but secretly reading The Adventures of Superman). Thank goodness for all the rain we've gotten in 2008, it's been a huge blessing.

Must-see Hillary video!

2008-02-21T16:49:00.000-08:00

Change is coming, a chance is here. Do your part to create change.

This year, the most experienced candidate for president with proven leadership and courage happens to be a woman. I firmly believe there's a national campaign to keep this woman from getting elected to the highest office in the world. She may not be as eloquent as Senator Obama, but she can deliver solutions through action.

Best drag performance ever!

2008-02-21T16:45:00.000-08:00

This is by far the best drag performance ever! Wonder Woman and Superman getting their groove on to the fullest. Not only is this performance jam packed with a lot of choreography that's delivered with lots of energy, but they also perform some pretty amazing tricks.

I need a hero too!

Club Papi @ The Factory

2008-02-20T23:31:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, Alex convinced me to roll with him to Circus which didn't sound too exciting until I heard the voice mail Ryan left me that same day letting me know that I was on the guest list for it. Circus sounded good but I wanted a bit more excitement so after reading a Club Papi flyer for their event at the Factory that same night, a detour might be the very thing to entice us both. We decided the the Factory would be in our cards only if we'd be in the first 150 people to get in for free and we made it!

Only one drink into the night, Alex decides to break his lent promise (yet again) to give up alcohol and well, that's all I needed to hype up the night. Yeah! Alex is fun sober and under the influence, but it puts my mind to ease if someone is also drinking and keeping up with me. It's a lot more fun to have a drinking buddy to keep you motivated! A few drinks later and it was obvious to us that we'd be staying at the Factory for the long haul and it was so worth it.

I saw many familiar faces that night, DJ Manny, Freddy (without Mikey), Limo, some Gammas (Alex's Fraternity brothers) and some NAKs (my fraternity brothers): Jason and Edgar, but that's as far as my memory takes me. I met Freddy through Mike and I don't think we really hit it off at first but more recently he's been one of the people I most enjoy hanging out with at clubs. He's got great energy to him, he's fun and we have a few things in common, at clubs anyway, ha ha.

I wish I remembered more but we did check out Crystal Waters who sang her smash hit "Pure Love (100%)" which was an amazing moment. Unfortunately, these two straight girls that were there that night exclusively for the Janet raffle didn't win, but alas, they were fun to hang out with and I got to show off some Janet choreography to them, ha ha, oh man, what an ass I must have been.

To date or not to date

2008-02-20T23:18:00.001-08:00

Can you have a future if your past is present?
-Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City

I don't understand myself. There are numerous reasons for why I don't think I'm ready to date. For one, I think I may be numb to life. Secondly, I think that I withhold too much. Third, I'm a runner, when things get serious and intimacy presents itself I turn into Julia Roberts in Runaway Bride and head for the hills.

Alex and I have been hanging out a lot recently. We were discussing our current state of relationships and although there are some commonalities, I've realized that I'm way to jaded. There's an emotional release that I feel I must experience in order to let go of various emotions that have been amassed over the last couple of years. I think 2006 was the last time I cried. I've tried everything, drinking, watching sappy movies, talking about this with friends, reading, and God knows what else, but nothing seems to work.

In discussing this with Alex, he think I may be putting way to much emphasis on the release as an end point instead of focusing on the process of healing itself. Does anyone else feel this way.

Let me be clear, I am happy with life. I have amazing friends, a great job, rewarding involvements, and I've done a great job of getting out there and participating in life. This tension has little to do with my present. It has more to do with an accumulation of small things that I've either never gotten over or unresolved matters that I may have to face.

Alex suggest it, I suck it up, grab life by the balls without placing any pressure or expectations on any situation or anyone with the sole intention of meeting new people, adding a new experience to my life, and having a beer. Is he right?

There will be a new Bush in the White House

2008-02-20T17:49:00.000-08:00

...and it belongs to Hillary Clinton

Hillary Clinton chain email of Hope and Transformation

Can one person really make a difference? This presidential campaign isn’t nearly finished and now is the time for you to step up and take action.

Hillary Clinton is not running for President alone, she’s running alongside the people of this country who are eager and fighting to bring change to the United States.

Our country needs the leadership of an individual who can deliver solutions through action. Her strength is further motivated by her love for this great country. Senator Clinton’s 35 years of experience in public service is further complemented by her character and intelligence, which make her the ideal person to fill the hope of the American people with action and effectively transformation this land into an even greater nation.

I have a genuine sense of love and trust for Senator Clinton and so I turn to you to ask you for your support. I am hopeful that Hillary, you and I really can make a difference.

This is your opportunity to take action and support in the following ways:

1) Vote for Hillary!

2) Register to be part of Clinton Campaign at http://www.hillaryclinton.com/

3) Contribute to the Clinton Campaign at http://www.hillaryclinton.com/

4) Participate in local Clinton events, find them at http://www.hillaryclinton.com/

5) Make a fan made video showing to show America your support for Clinton!

6) Write to super delegates, let them know Hillary is your candidate and theirs!

7) Forward this message to your friends and family: one person can make a difference! Spread this message across America and around the world!

I do not serve on Hillary’s campaign. I am a person who believes in this country and in Hillary’s ability to unite and lead it.

Spread this message across America and around the world!

Felipe O. Infante

Pasadena, California

Emotional Laxative

2008-02-20T17:28:00.000-08:00

I've been needing an emotional release for some time now. I'm not sure what's gotten me to this point but something needs to happen. After discussing my dilemma with several people, one of them, Marty seemed to better understand what I was feeling inside. He's the one first suggested I get an emotional laxative, which immediately made a lot of sense. It's time to get the shit out. In no way am I pretending to be a great writer, however I am willing to be open with my thoughts and feelings. I'm not sure how far I plan to take this but my goal is to write about my experiences, perspectives, and about many interest, all with the hope of learning more about myself through creation.

FLIP VIEW

Guarded and Cynical

The most loaded question I've been asked

Quote from a friend

Chasing Amy: Dedicated to You

You're Invited!

Last American Virgin

Busy Saturday: A quick run-down

CHIRLA Annual Gala

Balance to the Force

French Kiss-off the Olympic Torch

Commissioner Flip in action

Is my heart open?

Birthday Boys!

The Job

One Moment, One Chance

A Day with the Girls, I mean the Gammas

Alex's Birthday Night

Working it out!

Honor Pac @ Club Cobra

It's time

Team Hillary!

Negative = Positive

Hillary on HIV/AIDS

Time to Buy Hillary Clinton

Time to Buy Hillary Clinton

Classic Britney

Results

The Spot: Ideal Testing Location

Gettin' Tested is Easy!

Obama is No Leader, Case in Point: MI & FL

HIV/STD Testing

Honor y Sabor

Words can kill but they can also save

Hell of a Hike

A Plan B comeback?

Whatever you're into...

My family has grown!

Fun fun fun at Circus

The Gemini

The Comeback, I told you so!

I'm rich b*tch!

Goodbye...

A lot on my mind

A Quarterlife Roxstar

International Gymnast Magazine: Mexico's Elsa Garcia Deserves Final Olympic Slot

Hillary, the Fighter: It's not Over!

Picture of the Week

Phone time

Pride of Mexico: Gymnast Elsa Garcia

Without your camera you are nothing!

Have you heard of Staaaaanford?

Just keep writing, just keep writing...

Defining a Fruit Loop

Green eyed Mike: Riddle me this

Friends with talent: Raul Batiz

Turning things upside down

Hater

Missing you...

Taking things back to NAK

Sexism in America: Britney & Hillary

Athletic A$$ets: Nadal vs. Weiss

Let's take a long walk...

Los Angeles 2008

Saturday, April 26, 2008The Rose Bowl, Pasadena

Tina Fey on Hillary Clinton

On relationships

You're Still the One

Alex

Taking things back...

Kwani, Michi, MK, Michelle

A moment of gratitude

Circus, here we go again

Art immitating life?

Pride of Mexico: Priscila Perales, Miss International 2007

Espiki espanich

Quote

Rain rain, thank you, come again

Must-see Hillary video!

Best drag performance ever!

Saturday, April 26, 2008
The Rose Bowl, Pasadena