Archie D' - You are so beautiful

You are so Beautiful, not to be confused with the version that Joe Cocker made popular, has been re-made and re-touched. A song containing a deep sentiment of appreciation and talent brought to life by Philippine Gold Record Awardee, Archie D' and a group of young women. Women who are graceful, beautiful, smart, who represent more than beauty that the eye can see. A man who has a heart to see beauty will be more than skin deep. As the producer, director, and editor of this piece, I am honored and pleased to have had the opportunity to work on this video with you.

Thank you to the cast and supporting crew:
Archie D'
Jam Duller
Naira Malik
Justine Omilig
Louis Janda
Tiffany Janda
Perla Reyes
Aviela Reyes
Air Tabigue
Meriden Villanueva



LYRICS
Baby you...you are so beautiful,
So unbelievable.
I love your smile.
Oh baby you...oh you...you are so wonderful
Irresistible all your life.

Anytime I wonder...wonder how I feel
All you drive in me out of my mind.
Every time I see you
Babe, is this for real?
Or someone like you is hard to find.

Or our promise you love.
And I can't get enough
Every day and night.
Or I do it for you,
Every thing what i do
to be mornin's life

Baby you...you are so beautiful,
So unbelievable.
I love your smile.
Oh baby you...oh you...you are so wonderful
Irresistible all your life.

The way you look tonight
You can give me more.
Every time I stare you in your eyes
Listen to my heartbeat.
Oh you can't ignore
You and me is stand in paradise

Are you ready for love?
Or I can't get enough
Every day and night.
Or I do it for you,
Everything I can do to the mornin's life

Baby you...you are so beautiful,
So unbelievable.
I love your smile.
Oh baby you...oh you...you are so wonderful
Irresistible all your life.
Baby you...you are so beautiful,
So unbelievable.
I love your smile.

Baby you...oh...you...you are so wonderful.
Irresistible all your life.
Oh Baby you...you are beautiful.
So unbelievable...( I love your smile)
Baby you...oh...you...you are so wonderful.
Irresistible all your life.

***

Richard M. Reyes / adecisiontolove.com
"You are so Beautiful"
Producer, Director & Editor

Archie D' - Mahal na Mahal

NEW YORK - 1992 was the year this single originally was released in the Philippines. It was a great hit. For the first time, Mahal na Mahal, unplugged, is released as a music video. The cold, freezing weather in New York City, and the long lines for the skating rink could not hold back the production for Mahal na Mahal. Special Thanks to Archie D', Tiffany Janda, Louis Janda, Perla Reyes, and Aviela Reyes. Their patience and perseverance led to a very enjoyable and successful time during production.

The mailman's creed is appropriate to describe this production: "Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds"

This is the 1080p HD version on Youtube:


LYRICS (Tagalog)
Kung may taong dapat na mahalin
Ay walang iba kungdi ikaw
Walang ibang makapipigil pa sa akin
Binuhay muli ang takbo at tibok ng puso
Sa 'yong pagmamahal
Ang buhay ko ri'y nag-iba, napuno ng saya

Refrain
Sa lahat, di maari, di maaring iwan
Wala na, makapigil kahit na bagyo man
Pa'no 'to, ikaw na mismo kusang lilisan
Pa'no ba (pa'no ba)

Chorus
Kung mawalay ka sa buhay ko
Kung pag-ibig mo ay maglaho
Pa'no na kaya ang mundo
Kung sa oras di ka makita
Kung ika'y napakalayo na
May buhay pa kaya 'tong puso
Yan lang ang maari na di sadyang matatanggap
Habang ako ay may buhay
Mahal na mahal kita
Higit pa sa iniisip mo

Binuhay muli ang takbo at tibok ng puso
Sa 'yong pagmamahal
Ang buhay ko ri'y nag-iba, napuno ng saya

(Repeat Refrain)
(Repeat Chorus except last line)

Higit pa sa iniisip
(Mahal na mahal kita, mahal na mahal kita)
(Mahal na mahal kita, higit pa sa iniisip mo)
(Mahal na mahal kita, mahal na mahal kita)
(Mahal na mahal kita, higit pa sa iniisip mo)

Kung mawalay ka sa buhay ko
Kung pag-ibig mo ay maglaho
Pa'no na kaya ang mundo
Kung sa oras di ka makita
Kung ika'y napakalayo na
May buhay pa kaya 'tong puso

(Repeat Chorus except last line)

Higit pa sa iniisip mo, woah
Mahal na mahal kita
Higit pa sa iniisip mo
(Mahal na mahal kita, mahal na mahal kita)
(Mahal na mahal kita, higit pa sa iniisip mo)

Photography as a Culinary Art

Certain terminology and processes in cooking are essential in photography.

Creativity is required to bring the imagination to reality.
Hard work is the key ingredient. Through practice skills are honed.
A chef has a sharp knife ready to cut through the meat.
A photographer with his tools, ready and cleaned.
His mind: ready to act. His body: Closely listening to the instructions of his mind

Striking photography can be through high-contrast.
Exotic dishes created with unlikely pairing of ingredients.
High heat and Strong light can liven up the dish and subject

The subjects and locations are like the ingredients and cooking styles.
Both familiar and unique.

In the end,
The dish must be tasty and presentable;
The photo a visual h'douvre
that strikes your eye and touches your heart

A short saying in Tagalog (Filipino) language of the Philippine Islands:
Sa pagkuha ng litrato
Timplado ang ilaw
Huwag masyadong malakas
Maluluto ang balat
Huwag masyadong mahina
Kasi mawawala ang lasa

English Translation
In taking a photo
The light is perfectly seasoned
Not too strong
It can burn the skin
Not too weak
Because you will lose the flavor
(of your subject)

-Richard M. Reyes
2010 December 20

MBT Shoes - Masai Barefoot Technology

The Swiss MBT company refers to their products as the "anti-shoe". The basic idea of MBT as footwear comes from the significance of MBT. MBT stands for "Masai Barefoot Technology." A how-to commercial states that MBT is a 1400 year old Masai Technology. Of course the Masai refers to the ethnic group found in Kenya and Northern Tanzania. The footwear itself emulates walking on an uneven surface. As a result, it allows each person who wears MBT to walk as the Masai do. The first step is on the heel sensor, then the foot rolls forward and then an upward push. These shoes are not recommended for running, although the same motion is used by Masai/Kenyan runners who have won many marathons.

It is interesting because these shoes should improve one's posture among other health benefits. The MBT website lists more benefits here.

The MBT U.S. web portal can be found here.

Check out the article "Do MBT Shoes Really Work?"

I look forward to having a pair to see for myself.... I am prepared for the initial "getting used to" since this footwear requires a learning curve to use. One effect could be tiredness after the first 20 minutes or so. The instructional concludes by recommending to remove these shoes if you feel tired and that there will be a curve where one can wear these shoes for longer stretches of time.

The concept is good: using new technology to enable old technology in extremely developed parts of the world.

Drop me a note if you have experienced a pair and what you think at richluis@adecisiontolove.com

Philippine Holiday Bazaar

THe official opening of the Philippine Holiday Bazaar is Paradance. The schedule is below:
1. 2010 November 19 - Para Isidro - NYC - Kalayaan Hall
2. 2010 November 20 - Philippine Holiday Bazaar

PARA ISIDRO * Alroy Teves - New York (guitarist) * Allan Pacla - New York (singer) * Bobby deLeon - New York (pianist, arranger) * Boston Dolina - New York (singer) * Katherine John - Australia (singer) * Jaime Blanch - Massachusetts (singer) * Jonell Gamilla - Chicago (singer)
Maritina Romulo - Manila (singer,dancer) * Miguel Braganza - New York (dancer) * Talia and Lee - New York (latin dancers) * Titchie Sarabia- New York (percussionist) * Una Genuino - Australia (16 year old dancer/choreographer)
)



2010 NOVEMBER 20 * PHILIPPINE HOLIDAY BAZAAR: HOLIDAY GIFTS * SALE * DISCOUNTS * UNIQUE ITEMS * ENTERTAINMENT * DOGGIE FASHION SHOW

Bring the entire family!

Queens Asian Fest - Job Fair & Home Based Business Exhibition Sponsors

Big name corporate sponsors as well as community businesses have come together to sponsor the Queens Asian Fest Job Fair & Home based business exhibition on November 13, 2010 from 10am-3pm at the Sheraton laGuardia East Hotel:



Click the * for the sponsor's weblink:
* BEST BUY
* DELTA AIRLINES
* djFilipino
* DWnews.com
* Essential Consulting Service
* Filipino Times
* MPGrafx
* PAYAG Restaurant
* Planet Philippines
* Sheration LaGuardia East
* The Marriage Ref
* Verizon Wireless

Video produced by Richard M. Reyes - adecisiontolove.com
Please visit the onecozyhome.com booth for raffles * prizes * gifts * sales * home & garden essentials

The Importance of Rest

As fun as one or many activities or even work can be. It is easy sometimes to realize the importance of rest. Physical and mental rest, as well as spiritual rest.

In Genesis, God, our Heavenly Father, led us by example; he rested on the 7th day. After 6 days of creation. God is love! God does not get tired. Yet he showed us that one day of rest is as crucial as 6 days of hard work. No matter how hard we try and what we may think we can do; It is God's power that shines through our weakness and imperfections. Genesis 2:2-3 explains God's explanation for resting, "And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made" and continues, "And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made."

When I get started on a project or task, I tend to continue on, no matter what. In Genesis 8:9, while Noah and his family was in the Great Ark, "But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the waters [were] on the face of the whole earth: then he put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark." The dove having no rest meant it was still time to go on.

In Exodus 16:23 we are reminded that it is good to rest on the sabbath, "And he said unto them, This [is that] which the LORD hath said, To morrow [is] the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake [that] which ye will bake [to day], and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning." Exdodus 23:12, "Six days thou shalt do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest: that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be refreshed."

The Old Testament, we are reminded that gravity of the importance of rest on the Sabbath, "Six days may work be done; but in the seventh [is] the sabbath of rest, holy to the LORD: whosoever doeth [any] work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death."

1 Chronicles 22:9 spoke of the coming of a man of rest, "Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest; and I will give him rest from all his enemies round about: for his name shall be Solomon, and I will give peace and quietness unto Israel in his days."

2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." When I am exhausted from working, from thinking, from the "go, go, go" of modern life, I realize most I am weak and tire. I am strong because of Jesus Christ's strength. Lamentations 5:5 describes my thoughts of the "go, go, go" of life, "Our necks [are] under persecution: we labour, [and] have no rest."

In Matthew 8:20, "And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air [have] nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay [his] head."

Revelations 4:8 speaks of ceaseless worship, "And the four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come."

The significance and fruit of rest is explained in Exodus 23:12 (above) and in Exodus 31:17, "It [is] a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for [in] six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed."

Major Media Stations in the Philippines

The Official Website of ABS-CBN global
The Official Website of GMA PinoyTV and GMA LifeTV

InPaint and Webinpaint software review

I was a bit skeptical about the before and after results I saw on the theinpaint.com website. It claimed to remove unwanted photos easily. Before downloading software that I may not eventually use, I tried a few photos for myself using the online software called webinpaint.com; the second reason was that I was trying this software from a laptop with Linux installed.

I downloaded a recent photo I took of model Jenny with fall foliage and decided what if I wanted to show the photo with just fall foliage. This was a good first test of the software and see if the claim could be proved.

The site could not be simpler to use. The first step was to LOAD IMAGE. Clicking on it allows you the option of uploading an image file (JPG) up to the site. I had no issues loading a 1.6MB file and no issues loading a 100K file. The next step was the highlight or "paint" over the area you want to remove and replace on the photograph. If you make a mistake, clicking on the "X" will clear the selection and you can select the object(s) again. To the right of the "X" is a number (clicking on the number reveals a slider that let's you adjust the brush size up to a maximum size of 50. I would recommend this for larger pixel photos as it lets you select a larger area (and decrease the time for you to select the unwanted object(s)). The easy step was to click INPAINT. The back end software and servers crunched away at the processing while I clicked on another tab to check email.

After checking email, I clicked back on the WebInpaint Beta tab. Here are the results:

Click here to see the original photo posted online

BEFORE

AFTER

To recap here are the steps using WebInPaint Beta in list format:
1. LOAD IMAGE
2. SELECT the object(s) from the image you want to remove by outlining.
3. (Optional) Click on the number to the right of the "X" to increase or decrease the size of the selector
4. (Optional) Click on the "X" if you need to clear the selection
5. Click INPAINT and wait until the image is transformed to the image you had in your mind
6. Click the disk SAVE icon to save the after photo. Remember to choose an alternate name or location as you may overwrite the original image

TOOL NOTES:
* Clicking on the "X" clears the entire selection

NOTE: The software itself is quite powerful but please respect photographers' and artist's copyright. Please also be aware of the law regarding copyrights where you live.

The Webinpaint Beta page states, "Typically the defect is repaired on the first try. However, you can experiment until you get the results you want." In my case the "defects" were repaired on the first try.

I tried again just to be sure. These are the results from a more complicated photo, where I removed the model on the right. It took a few tries because the empty space was filled with awkward elements until the fourth try where I thought the results are acceptable:

Click here to see the original photo posted on my website.

ORIGINAL

STEP 1

STEP 4

This software has revolutionized the practice of using scissors to "cut out" unwanted objects in photographs. Since it is software whether online or on your computer; it is cleaner, and takes a lot less time and really does remove unwanted objects. In certain scenarios, it is possible that using this software and additional cropping may do the job.

Photographs are copyrighted by Richard M. Reyes.

BBC World Challenge - Vote for the Philippines! Mabuhay ang Pilipino!

The BBC World Challenge is an annual international competition held by BBC World News and Newsweek. The purpose of this challenge is to find "projects or small businesses that have shown enterprise and innovation at a grassroots level." This year the Philippines has been selected as 1 of 12 vying for the international title. The winner will also receive $20,000 to continue their research.

1. Mexico - La Isla Urbana - rain water harvesting and filtration system
2. Guatemala - Long Way Home - Building at lower cost using recycled material
3. Peru - Sierra Productiva - Pass It On (knowledge sharing)
4. Denmark - MYC4 - Internet Marketplace
5. Rwanda - e.quinox - Charge of the Light Brigade
6. Kenya - David Osborne - Jompy - Double boiled drinking water
7. Malawi - Full Belly Project - In a Nutshell
8. Tanzania - Chumbe Island Coral Park - Ok Coral (saving coral reefs)
9. Zambia - Zambikes - Growth Cycle (bamboo bicycles)
10. Madagascar - Blue Ventures - One reef at a time (preserving reefs)
11.India - Husk power systems - Burn after eating (burned rice husks produces electricity)
12. Philippines - Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation Inc. (AIDFI) - The Only way is up - RAM pumps using energy from water (no electricity) to provide water to high elevations. VOTE!

Please vote for the Philippines HERE.

The Official Facebook page is here

Richard M. Reyes Photo Exhibit Virtual Tour - Payag Restaurant - 2010OCT28 until 2010NOV28

NEW YORK - Welcome to the self-guided online photo exhibit virtual tour for Richard M. Reyes photo exhibit at Payag Restaurant which runs from 2010 October 28 through 2010 November 28.

For the opening coverage please go here.

PRINTS ARE FOR SALE (except when noted).

#1 TriNoMa

#2 Philippine Flag in NY City Parade

#3 Karitela

#5 Lazy "Bangka" After the Rain

#6 Beauty and the Behemoth

#7 Talitha

#8 Magical Half Dome

#9 Twin Red Woods

#10 Majestic Half Dome

#11 Lower Yosemite Falls

#12 Merlot Wine Grape

#13 Misty Enchantment

#14 News Flash!

#15 Pacquiao I

#16 "Tapsilog" Breakfast

#17 Legendary Winemaker with his dog

#18 Kundiman I

#19 Pacquiao II

#20 Photographer

Official RIchard M. Reyes Photo Exhibit Gallery Opening 2010 October 28. (L-R) Madelaine Reyes, Perla Reyes, Aviela Reyes, Richard M. Reyes, Morgan Jones (Queens Director, Community Affairs Unit of the New York City Mayor's Office), Luis F. Pedron (LFP Productions, Inc.)

Official Press Release as it appears in November 5, 2010 issue of the Asian Journal (NY, NJ, CT)

Queens Asian Fest - Job Fair & Home Based Business Exhibition

NEW YORK - The general public is invited to the Queens Asian Fest - Job Fair & Home Based Business Exhibition.

Seminars * Hourly Raffle Giveaways * Free tote bag * Community Event


Please register: http://queensasianfest2010.eventbrite.com

Queens Asian Fest - Job Fair & Home Based Business Exhibition
Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel
135-20 39th Avenue, Flushing, Queens, NY 11354
Phoenix Grand Ballroom
Saturday November 13, 2010 10A-3P

Queens Asian Fest Awards Gala Night
Fundraising Event - Celebrating success stories in the Asian Community in the Tri-State NY-NJ-CT area


View Larger Map

Check out the Queens Asianfest Website for more information.

Kirby Asunto - Concert Debut (2010 DEC 17) & (2010 DEC 25)

NEW YORK - 12-year old Kirby Asunto will be performing her 1st ever concert at Payag Restaurant (51-34 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, NY). It will feature Christmas Holiday songs that will be performed in public for the first time. Show dates are December 10, 2010 and December 25, 2010.

Kirby Asunto is available for performances. Please contact richluis@adecisiontolove.com for more information. Thank you.

Check back on this page for updates.

Kirby's personal invite.

Kirby rehearsing 14G to a private audience at Payag Restaurant.

Beulah Mae Holiday Doggie Fashion Show

NEW JERSEY - Attention doggie fans. On November 21, 2010, The Philippine Holiday Bazaar will present the Beulah Mae Holiday Doggie Fashion Show at the Westfield Armory in Westfield, NJ. For more info: PBazaar@mp-entertainment.com.

Beulah Mae Holiday Doggie Fashion Show trailer by Richard M. Reyes (adecisiontolove.com)

Marisse Panlilio from Philippine Bazaar invite

Legendary wine maker and his dog

One of the pieces in the Richard M. Reyes Photo Gallery Exhibit @ Payag Restaurant (2010 October 28 - 2010 November 28) is called Legendary Wine maker and his dog.

Legendary Hall of Fame vintner (wine maker) Miljenko "Mike" Grgich with Aviela Reyes and his dog Posip play with the Bocci ball. This photograph was taken in Calistoga, California in October 2010. It is hot of the press and filled with life. This time of year is the grape harvest and the air was filled with the scent of crushed grapes.

This piece was added to the gallery collection by request of Mr. Miljenko "Mike" Grgich.

For the full online gallery click here.

External links:
* For more information about visiting the Grgich Hills Estate Winery click here
* The Evolution of Napa with Mike Grgich - Radio Interview (part 1) (part 2)

Photographer - Poetry, Photography and Text Fused into Art

What do you get when you combine the following elements? a photograph and stylized text design. It is a different view of art. The poetry whose letter and words function as design and artistic elements on the canvas. In this case the choice was metallic paper mounted on foam core.

What do you see? Is it the stylized text or the text underneath the conscious of your mind, your eyes supporting the illusion and reality of the photo that is the background. You are able to zoom in and out of the photograph and simplicity and complexity are the contrast or is it the lack of color, save for a few areas in the work?

What happens when you see a photograph of this work? It becomes a photograph within a photograph. Thus, it is art at different levels.

Photographer
Richard M. Reyes
2010 October 19

Fleeting moments of life
Captured
Small emotions in light
Cherished

Honored is the photographer

Within and without
In the midst of
Individuals and groups

Artist and subject
Fused in a photograph

Photographer and Camera
The artist's easel and canvas
Subject transformed into
The muse and the paint
Creativity and artistry
Is the brush and stroke

Humbled is the photographer

A witness
To life and death
Testimony
In images

Archie D - Autumn 2010

NEW JERSEY - Archie Dairocas, Pagadian, is more well known as Archie D. He is an accomplished Filipino-American composer and singer and part of Vicor Music Corporation (formerly Sunshine Records). He has returned to the US from the Built to Sound Good concert series in the Philippines last September.

Last 2010 October 31, Archie D had an awesome photography shoot in Alpine, NJ with photographer Richard M. Reyes of www.adecisiontolove.com. It was a good time to capture the highlight of Autumn in the United States, particularly the Northeast USA, which has a lot of different types of trees that have magnificent color.

These are just some of the photos from the shoot. For the entire gallery click here.

External Links:
* Archie D's page on multiply
* To check out and purchase Archie D's album from 2003 called Archimedes click here
* Archie D on iLike
* Archie D at the Asian American Festival click here
* Archie D interviewed by Dave Brodsky, producer of Rhythms of New York

Portrait Photography Digital Touchup & Processing

In the days of print photographs many photo studios touched up photographs by hand using paint. There was a lot of skill involved in getting the right color, then applying the proper pressure and stroke.

These days the art of portrait photography retouching has been digitized to match the digital workflow:
1. INPUT: Digital Camera (lenses that are specially made for digital cameras); computerized Flash
2. PROCESSING: Computerized Processing (Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom 3, Portrait Professional
3. OUTPUT: Digital Format (computer/iPAD/Tablet: websites, email; phone/PDA: SMS, email)

We will be focusing on the processing aspect today and see some digital processing results. For the photoset by Lucas Huang (GP Lucas) please check out this link: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=448957133883&set=a.448957058883.248347.500953883

The images have been reposted for this blog. Used with permission.

There are a few goals for processing:
1. Remove unwanted details
2. Smoothen and blur
3. Highlight areas
4. Make the photo look better (of course this is the most important goal! Note there may be certain photos that are beyond help)

Software Used:
There are 3 key pieces of software used:
1. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 (website: http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshoplightroom/)
2. Portrait Professional 9 (website: http://www.portraitprofessional.com/photo_editing_software/)
3. Adobe Photoshop CS5 (website: http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop/photoshopextended/whatsnew/index.html?segment=design)

These software packages should help you process most portraits unless the lighting or focus is drastic beyond reach.

Adobe Lightroom 3
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom is how Lightroom is referred to by Adobe. Lightroom is what everyday users call it. It is essential software used in the photographer's digital workflow. Lightroom has made a name by allowing photographers easy access to their entire photographic (and LR3 video) library in a snap. Groups of photographs can be highlighted and effects can be uniformly applied when necessary.

Importing and organization into logical directory structures are its strong points. After Version 3 was released it offered photographers one great addition to its toolset. Namely noise processing. Now one can eliminate a level of desired noise from a photograph shot in dark or high ISO scenarios without launching another piece of software.

Portrait Professional
Portrait Professional is a specialized software that is designed solely and extensively to improve portraits. It can enhance your photo more easily and in a lot less time than Photoshop. This software can be used as a one-stop shop for beginners, intermediate users, and even professionals who need retouching services.

Portrait Professional features:
* Face shaping
* Skin smoothing
* Eyes & Teeth
* Lighting
* Spot Reduction

Anthropics, the company that makes Portrait Professional introduces and uses their "ClearSkin®" skin improving technology and, "adds greatly to the realism of the skin after enhancement. It enables "blown" or burnt out highlights on the skin to be successfully retrieved and realistically re-textured in seconds. To the best of our knowledge, this innovative feature is unique and puts clear blue water between Portrait Professional and other skin enhancing packages. For the first time, the ClearSkin® technology enables anybody to achieve ultra realistic skin enhancing effects literally in seconds."

If given a choice I would select the Studio 64 version (especially for a version of 64-bit Windows) because it includes:
* Adobe Photoshop Plugin (standalone plugin included)
* Enhanced color profiles and RAW support
* New batch mode

For techies, the plugin will make full use of multi-processor and multi-core systems (woohoo!) In plain English: Much shorter wait time.

Adobe Photoshop CS5
Before any specialized portrait software was designed, Adobe Photoshop has been the King of photo editing. It has been referred to as a digital darkroom. Version CS5 has bumped up the level of editing power by offering capable software for web, design, and video professionals. Photoshop is still the King of digital darkroom when one needs to get down and dirty with layers, effects, and processing large amounts of photos that require these specialized and custom effects.

Moreno on Moreno - A response by Virginia R. Moreno

I saw an article on the Philippine Daily Inquirer (http://services.inquirer.net/print/print.php?article_id=20090614-210393) regarding Poet Virginia R. Moreno's response regarding the controversy surrounding Gloria Macapagal's naming Pitoy R. Moreno as a National Artist. This was posted no June 14, 2009.

"Moreno on Moreno

Philippine Daily Inquirer

Posted date: June 14, 2009


MANILA, Philippines – Poet Virginia Moreno has written us to react to the article “Pitoy Moreno to be named National Artist?” (Inquirer Lifestyle, June 5, 2009), which reports speculations that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo would name her brother National Artist for Fashion Design, bypassing the official and democratic selection process for the awards.
She wrote: “...I’m aroused by this talk of brewing trouble – not of Moreno’s knowledge or doing – that if the President confers this (contested? questioned?) National Artist Award for Fashion Design on Jose R. ‘Pitoy’ Moreno, it is the President’s exclusive choice and judgment alone, on the 50 years – Ginintuang Sining/Golden Years of the Art and Life of Moreno in his million Fund Raising 2004 Tribute Show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines for Young Artists, for Gawad Kalinga and for Nuns of an Order I’ve forgotten, who pray over him. Implying, it’s the President’s lone personal choice?...

Consequently, all that manna of prestige, rituals and comforts granted to a proclaimed National Artist, such as the lifelong pension of originally P10,000, paid medical bills, a grand state funeral and, at last, a niche in the Libingan ng Mga Bayani. All such gifts of the State would be credited to the President’s largesse and majestic authority?”

She added, “As one of three members of the Moreno clan, honored, unquestionably, with the highest state awards by other republics, from the French Republic on the late Ambassador Luis Moreno y Salcedo to France and Unesco Paris, and the German Federal Republic on Oscar Moreno Lopez – here and now, I see clearly, ethically, and therefore advocate the need of the Philippine Republic to confer its National Awards for Artists under the same strictest Republican principles, with the dignity of the silence of monks in their election of the Pope, to be balanced more by the grace and ceremony with which the Japanese Emperor confers the poetic title National Treasures on peasant weavers to kimono design artists.”

Virgie said her brother had been received abroad by the late Princess Margaret in London, Spanish Queen Sophia in Madrid, the King of Morocco and “a Japanese princess at the exclusive Miho Museum. But, it’s not quite correct to call as “rubbing elbows” these royal hosting and Moreno’s official presence, approved by protocol, as performing envoy of Philippine culture. And no other creative credentials credited to him, why should he receive an Invitation and Award in his own country’s Palace when there are hopeful, waiting others?

“It’s hard labor, and at what cost, are those Moreno Theater of Culture Shows in the service of and glory to the Philippine Republic? Demanding of management skills with honed artistry. Extremely stressful and expensive as to put the family’s health and bank account at risk. I know, I’m the other Moreno in his brother-and-sister act in all the half-century celebrations of Philippine Independence Day: from the first, 12th June 1964, Giting Kayumanggi, a historic pageant, [with] Virginia R. Moreno as librettist, music by Lucio San Pedro, choreographer L. Urtula of Bayanihan, authentic costumes by Jose R. Moreno that opened in New York’s Lincoln State Theater of the Rockefeller Foundation. To Unesco Paris Theater, 12th June 1996, Philippine Independence Day, where the Filipino chamber maids paid their honestly earned francs to Moreno’s show for Father Tritz’s Erda Foundation Scholar Funds in Paco, Manila. To the 1998 Philippine Independence Day Centennial in the Walk the Last Walk of Our Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal, where our grandchildren as innocents on this tragic day wore Moreno’s little Maria Clara and barong costumes.”

Virgie also cited her brother’s books on Filipino fashion – “‘Philippine Costume’ and ‘Kasalan’ richly documented the origins, crafting and beauties in our Teatro Tampipi Show: the family heirlooms of piña and jusi silks, mantones de Manila, ethnic jewelry, hats, canes and Ang Batis tsinelas.”

She added, “J. Moreno Foundation grants yearly scholarships to the best students of the UP College of Medicine and UP College of Fine Arts [his alma mater]... Surely, a foot doctor from out of those beneficiaries would care for a patient named Jose R. Moreno if he lands in the PGH charity ward, now cleaner and better-equipped from a Sofitel Plaza Hotel fundraising Moreno show.”

In closing, Virgie wrote: “What else would a Moreno need, crave for and run after? When, National Artist for Literature Jose Garcia Villa in his most profane and sacred wit, intoned: To reinvent God is unnecessary. All He needs today is a Designer’s Name.” –
Virginia R. Moreno, French Republic, Chevalier dans L’ Ordre des Palmes Academiques"

Mr. Theodore "Ted" Sorensen - Global Citizen

NEW YORK - Theodore "Ted" Sorensen lived a full life until his death at 82 years old. Even after a stroke where Mr. Sorensen lost his vision, he was still full of zest for life.

The last time I saw Mr. Theodore "Ted" Sorensen was a little over a year ago in October 2009 in Greenwich, CT. His Excellency Ambassador Joseph Verner Reed and The Honorable Theodore C. Sorensen were presented with the Roots of Peace Global Citizen Awards. He savored every moment of that day from speaking to walking with his wife and autographing copies of his book, "Counselor."

Princess Diana's "appreciation for the gift of life" and commitment to "global demining" served as a central motivation to Roots of Peace Founder Heidi Kühn. Roots of Peace has a global "mines to vines" initiative where mines are "de-mined" and replaced with grape vines which serve to rebuild communities. These communities where fields were once deadly areas filled with mines are transformed into a self-sustaining solution. The grape vines planted become the source of financial sustenance and build up a country's economy, one community at a time.

Maria Luisa M. Reyes, the daughter of the late Ambassador Luis Moreno Salcedo (former permanent representative of The Philippines to the United Nations who served in New York from 1982-1985), shared the stage with Mr. Theodore "Ted" Sorensen as the Director of International Relations for Roots of Peace. On the Roots of Peace website (http://www.rootsofpeace.org/blog/2009/07/bayat-foundation-afghan-sympos.html), Heidi Kühn explains how she met Ms. Reyes, "Over ten years ago, I made a telephone call from the basement of our family home to the 38th floor of the United Nations, the Executive Office of the U.N. Secretary-General. Maria "took my call" with an idea born in the heart of a mother. From there, she took the concept of MINES TO VINES to the ears of Mrs. Gillian Sorensen, former U.N. Assistant Secretary-General. Throughout the years, we earned the active support of His Excellencies Secretary-General Kofi Annan and Ban Ki-moon. Today a bright light adorns our Roots of Peace headquarters, as Ms. Reyes is now Director for International Relations."

Mr. Sorensen is best remembered as counselor and speech writer for U.S. President John F. Kennedy. In a New York Times video interview, He said that [as a speechwriter] he has played a very important role but not the deciding role.

Looking back at last year's Roots of Peace event, I realize now more than then that presenting Mr. Sorensen with the Global Citizen Award was fitting. His words of encouragement cut across borders, ethnicities, and nationalities.

We will all remember Ted Sorensen for the words that challenged and continues to challenge Americans and people worlwide, "...Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." (Text by Richard M. Reyes)

(L-R) Gillian Sorensen, Theodore "Ted" Sorensen, Ms. Maria Luisa M. Reyes at the Roots of Peace event in Greenwich, CT where Mr. Sorensen received the Global Citizen Award (Photo/Richard M. Reyes).

UPDATE: The above photo now appears on the Roots of Peace website (http://www.rootsofpeace.org/blog/2010/11/in-tribute-to-ted-sorensen.html#more)

Josephus Tudtud - The Office for Bacardi

Congratulations! NYC FilAm videographer Josephus Tudtud for your work on the Bacardi project "The Bacardi Office". The video is not publicly available today. We will provide a link when it is publicly viewable.

The preview does remind us of the television show, "The Office" in terms of shooting style (composition), editing, and of course soundtrack.

Mabuhay!

Chef Alex Dino - Modern Tofu

Congratulations Chef Alex on the release for your new book Modern Tofu!

Chef Alex is the New York Champion for the Sears Chef Challenge. Watch him on November 4, 2010 during the Final Competition in Chicago.

Mabuhay ang Pilipino!

Richard M. Reyes Photo Exhibit Opening - Payag Restaurant - 2010 October 28

Thank you all for your attendance and support at the opening for Richard M. Reyes photo gallery exhibit at Payag Restaurant in Queens, NY. God Bless!

(L-R) Madelaine M. Reyes, Perla G. Reyes, Aviela Reyes, Richard M. Reyes, Morgan Jones (NYC Mayor's Office Queens Director Community Affairs Unit), Luis F. Pedron (LFP Productions, Queens Asian Fest)

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE (note: online version appears here: http://www.prlog.org/11045045-richard-reyes-photo-gallery-exhibit-opening-queens-asian-fest-networking-event-success.html)

You can download a PDF version here.



Thank you media: UNTV, Little John Gadia (DJ Filipino), Ernie Pena, and Jolly Snapper (Joe Valdez) for covering the event.

DJFilipino! made an awesome video. Check out his site here:

Richard Reyes Photo Exhibit / Video by: littlejohn from djfilipino on Vimeo.

RICHARD REYES

Photo Exhibit is on

10-28-10 to 11-28-10

@ PAYAG RESTAURANT

51-34 Roosevelt Ave.

Queens, New York

Photo Exhibit is brought to you by:

QUEENS ASIAN FEST

Please find the livestream videos below:

Watch live streaming video from adecisiontolove at livestream.com

Watch live streaming video from adecisiontolove at livestream.com

Watch live streaming video from adecisiontolove at livestream.com

Watch live streaming video from adecisiontolove at livestream.com

WebcamMax - Review

I first heard about WebcamMax while setting up for my first photo exhibit at Payag Restaurant in Queens, New York. My family and friends were not all based in the United States (or New York City) for that matter so I needed a solution for streaming the pre-recorded content. After some research I googled WebcamMax and thought it would be the ideal solution.

I am on a very tight production budget -- almost none and I needed the right technology to do the best job. I was hoping for a product that didn't have to cost a lot to provide the high-class quality live stream production I envisioned in delivering.

I also didn't have much time to learn new software. I finally decided on LiveStream live streaming service combined with the ease and power of WebCamMax. Without spending anytime on the instructions, I was quickly able to test my live streams using a variety of media, from stills, desktop, mpeg-4 videos, and a webcam. WebCamMax was the bridge that provided me with the production power I needed to get the job done--period.

I spent a few hours the night before the big production and I was very pleased to see WebCamMax. I left on the stream for 30 minutes straight to make sure that the video was smooth. I could finally get some rest... And be assured that the technology solution I had would work!
Bottom line is: fast, simple, easy, and smooth! These are the most important factors and you shouldn’t have to have a migrain “trying” all the products before buying. After I tried WebCamMax I am convinced enough to think that my viewers will have the same experience I did (though they may not realize that I am using WebCamMax…and it is better that way). Transparent solutions are the best when delivering high-end quality to your customers.

I will have to update this blog review another day on the results. Being a technology professional in the field of Quality Assurance, I am trained to push software to the limits. I pushed WebCamMax and it did not break. Bravo! to the CoolwareMax Corporation, who are the brains and programming muscle behind WebCamMax.

On another note: I hope that my first gallery opening will be successful on two fronts: Live and Internet. At least I have succeeded in one thing already...No choppiness and clear streaming with the help of WebCamMax.

For more information, please go their website at: http://www.webcammax.com/. Don’t take my word for it. Take a look for yourself and be your own judge. You can download WebCamMax here: http://www.webcammax.com/download.html

A Decision to Love - Live Video Stream

Mabuhay!

Welcome to the live video stream page for A Decision to Love! Hope to see you on 2010 October 28, Thursday between 6:30pm-9:30pm (EST). We will be live streaming the opening of Richard M. Reyes photo gallery @ Payag Restaurant (51-34 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, NY).

Event hosted by: Luis F. Pedron of LFP Productions, International (Queens Asian Fest)
Special Guest entertainers include: Kirby Asunto, Archie D. (Award winning composer whose album is a bestseller in East Coast)
The top FilAm NYC photographers: Ernie Pena, Ronn Tan, Jolly Photographer (Joe Valdez)
Many top FilAm designers and producers and guests. Please bring your business cards and RSVP to luispedron@gmail.com.

Special Entertainment section produced by Richard M. Reyes (poetry and short essay reading, short skits, plenty of photo ops!, maybe even some comedy)

Many thanks to Rena Avendula and her staff at Payag Restaurant
Thank you Internet viewers for making the live stream happen!

Watch live streaming video from adecisiontolove at livestream.com

Social Stream

Chat

Song of Joseph Musical - New York City Theater District Performance

NEW YORK - The first musical written by Fides Cuyugan Asensio, Song of Joseph, debuted on October 15, 2010 at St. Malachy's, the actor's chapel, which is embraced geographically by all the major and minor Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters. Starring Jon Joven as Joseph, Lena McKenzie as Mary, and Miguel Braganza II as Abigail. Music by Raymond Roldan. Sound Director, Marisse Panlilio of MPEntertainment. Photography and Videography by Richard M. Reyes.

The full photo collection can be seen here at: http://adecisiontolove.smugmug.com/Theater/20101015SongOfJoseph/14303541_WyRFg

Yosemite National Park & Ansel Adams

Fourth Grade was when I first learned about Ansel Adams and his spectacular black & white landscapes. It was not until later that I learned that the pieces I enjoyed the most were taken at Yosemite National Park in California.

Appreciating his work is easy. Since it is in black and white, the beauty today is still present years from today. Some of his most amazing work are photographs taken during the winter. Working with modern equipment it can challenging to travel (hiking, climbing); I can only imagine that most of the skill, besides creative--is physically demanding. The fruit of the labor is worth it. Please take a look at Ansel Adam's work here.

For more information about getting to the Ansel Adams gallery in Yosemite Park (http://www.anseladams.com/category_s/11.htm) and purchasing officially licensed prints (archival replicas: http://www.anseladams.com/searchresults.asp?cat=4).

Although I did not have the opportunity to go to the scheduled camera walks, I would highly recommend it. Information below from here (http://www.anseladams.com/category_s/41.htm):

Camera Walks
Free Camera walks are led by staff photographers, are offered every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer. These depart from the Gallery porch at 8:30 AM and are limited to 15 people. Topics are basic information about using cameras, composition, exposure, and whatever questions come up. Both digital and traditional formats welcome. Call 209-372-4413 to reserve space.

Jesus Thank You

While visiting Grace Church of Napa Valley in Napa City, California, we were moved by God's Word delivered by Dr. John Fernandez on Revelation 2:18-29. You can take a look at the sermons online.

This is the first time we heard "Jesus, Thank You." The video below is the version performed by Sovereign Grace Praise (c/o Integrity Music)

These are the lyrics to Jesus, Thank You:

The mystery of the cross I cannot comprehend
The agonies of Calvary
You the perfect Holy One, crushed Your Son
Who drank the bitter cup reserved for me

Your blood has washed away my sin
Jesus, thank You
The Father’s wrath completely satisfied
Jesus, thank You
Once Your enemy, now seated at Your table
Jesus, thank You

By Your perfect sacrifice I’ve been brought near
Your enemy You’ve made Your friend
Pouring out the riches of Your glorious grace
Your mercy and Your kindness know no end

Lover of my soul
I want to live for You

Discussion Topic: What is your Favorite Camera?

Please see the Facebook Link discussing your favorite camera.

Gallery Opening @ Payag Restaurant - Updated 2010 October 28 6:30PM-9:30PM

In exactly two weeks, on Thursday, October 28, 2010 between 6:30PM-9:30PM, I will have a gallery opening at Payag Restaurant in Queens, New York. Payag Restaurant is located on the (corner 52nd St & Roosevelt) 51-34 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377). I will be the third in a series of Filipino-American photographers whose work has been displayed in the gallery. The debut was for photographer Ronn Tann (September 2010). Ernie Pena's work is currently on display for the month of October 2010.

Please check out their work on display and online. Payag Restaurant is known as "Redefined Filipino Cuisine", by owner Rena Avendula. Although, they are relatively young and new in Queens, they have been featured in many articles and have been invited in culinary shows due to the fresh and innovative presentation and taste of southern Filipino dishes. Executive Chef Raymond Ganados leads the culinary experts behind the scenes at Payag.

Please drop by Payag Restaurant during the month of November 2010 to take a look at my gallery and enjoy excellent Filipino cuisine for an improptu visit or your next event.

The November 2010 gallery will feature a visual experience captured both in the United States and the Philippines. The gallery opening will feature a multi media components that complete a visual experience. As a Filipino-American, I am filled with rich experiences in the Philippines and the United States. My childhood was formed with time spent in Manila, Quezon City, and Queens, New York. It is about life, family, and the beauty of God's grace.

I hope to see you on October 28, 2010 at 6:30pm. The gallery opening falls under the ongoing Queens Asian Festival Networking event hosted by Luis F. Pedron. Suggested donation: $10 with light snack. Bring your business cards to network. RSVP: LuisPedron@gmail.com

Archie D at the Asian American Festival 2010 September 25 singing You are so Beautiful

Nobody But You - Wonder Girls HD music video

This is US version of a music video of Nobody But You performed by the Wonder Girls. It has over 15 million hits on Youtube. Looks like a high-end production of a music video. The original version of the video and song is sung in English/Korean.

This is a remix by Lester featuring JayT

This is a slow version of Nobody But You. Anonymous.

DANZFABRIQUE - Exclusive aftershow interview with Director Miguel Braganza

DANZFABRIQUE 20100917 - Miguel Braganza Interview from Richard Reyes on Vimeo.

Queens Asian Feastival article published on Associated Content!

Queens Asian Feastival article (collaborated with Luis Pedron) has been published on Associated Content http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5801860/queens_asian_feastival.html?cat=22

20100922 Site Updates

* www.adecisiontolove.com page has been redesigned.
+ A photo wall has been added displaying the Flickr (adecisiontolove) gallery
+ Quick links bar has been re-formatted

See What's Down Right Now

Newly added feature to A Decision to Love Blog:
* Ability to see major sites that have connectivity issues at the bottom of the webpage (just keep scrolling down). Sites such as twitter, and facebook have current status information.

Bayanihan Cultural Festival

NEW YORK - 2010 September 19, Sunday. After a few days of chilly weather, most New Yorkers may have thought that summer was over. It was a warm 83 degrees. Despite the warm (hot under prolonged sun exposure) temperature there were about 1000 visitors to the 2nd annual Bayanihan Cultural Festival held at the Hart Playground in Woodside, Queens. The Hart Playground is only a block away from the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway when coming from the Triborough Bridge and the Grand Central Parkway. It is also home to thousands of Filipino families who call it home. Businesses such as Johnny Air Cargo, Krystal's Cafe, Ihawan, Renee's Kitchenette, Fil-Am Grocery, Perlas ng Silangan, and Fritzie's Bakery also call it home.

Paruparung Bukid from Richard Reyes on Vimeo.

Filipino-American Senior Citizens from the Ridgewood-Bushwick Senior Center in Brooklyn, New York participated in this year's Bayanihan Cultural Festival performing two numbers (Paruparuhang Bukid - Field Butterfly) and a Paypay (Fan) Dance.

Paypay Dance from Richard Reyes on Vimeo.

Please click here to see the entire gallery: http://adecisiontolove.smugmug.com/Events/20100919BayanihanFestkval/13843740_WNoH4#1014646660_WPdPd

D'ANZFABRIQUE - September 17, 2010

NEW YORK - D'ANZFABRIQUE at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center in New York City. A production by Miguel Braganza II fusing performing arts (modern dance, folk dance, Filipino martial arts, tap, fashion runway modeling, ballet, Broadway, showtunes, R&B, hiphop, into a fully energized, well-organized, action packed entertainment package.

See the full gallery here: http://adecisiontolove.smugmug.com/Theater/20100917DANZFABRIQUE/13819578_6oXcT#1012598436_iLES7

Video of the DANZFABRIQUE finale

DANZFABRIQUE 20100917 Finale from Richard Reyes on Vimeo.