Cuba Libre

This past Sunday I was in Los Angeles photographing a rally in Echo Park. This particular rally was close to my heart as the catalyst for the event was based on some recent events that occurred in Cuba (my birthplace). The event was to support the "Ladies in White"; relatives of prisoners of conscience, these women (who dress in white) recently went into the streets of Cuba to protest the wrongful imprisonment of their loved ones. In return the government beat them as they walked the streets in silent protest. The event in Los Angeles was to show solidarity and support for these women and to bring attention to human rights violations on the island. The event was put together by actor Andy Garcia and other celebrities. Present were Maria Conchita, Steven Bauer (of Scarface fame) and Perez Hilton (entertainment blogger) as well as Mexican comedian George Lopez who is married to a Cuban. Click here to go the gallery: 2010 Cuban Rally in Echo Park

First Day of Spring

It is a sure sign that spring is here when the fastpitch fields are filled with players and surrounded by fans. This past weekend, and on the first day of spring, I found myself in Santa Fe Springs once again, sharing the ballfield with our local (and talented) Southern California players. Other commitments had kept me from shooting the first day of this their first tournament of the season but with camera in hand I went on Sunday to at least catch some of the action. As always, there was no shortage of action to be captured and friends to say hello to. So, although the gallery is not very extensive, I share with you what I consider the best rite of spring: playing fastpitch under sunny skies and sharing it with the best of friends. Click here to see the photos: 2010 SCIFL.

St. Patty's Day 2010

This year the Los Angeles' St. Patrick's Day celebration was a bit different. There was no parade but instead a festival which was held at the LA Live complex. This complex sits in the middle of downtown Los Angeles and is quickly becoming the place to go in downtown Los Angeles. Surrounded by large venues (Nokia Theatre, Staples Center), loads of restaurants and nightclubs it is a vibrant center. It was no less so on St. Patty's Day when the wonderful Dublin All-Star Marching band played for our fellow Angelenos. We were also graced with the wonderful sounds of Ken O'Malley and the Twilight Lords and no less impressed by the ballads sung by Ms. Connie Monroe. The ever-present Emerald Society's Bagpipers were there as well bringing that special Irish touch which only bagpipes can bring. All in all, despite there being no parade, it was a great Irish celebration and I was happy to be there and see it all unfold. You can see photos of the day at our 2010 St. Patrick's gallery. Enjoy!