Who Are The Sini-Gang?
The Sini-Gang is comprised of second generation Filipino-Americans living primarily in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The main body of the group met while attending college. While at university, they participated in various activities including intramural sports and cultural awareness initiatives. It was during that time, that they forged the lasting friendships that they enjoy today.
The podcast features L-Boogy (The Elemental One), Sterno Supernova, Brother Butterfly (formerly "Gamma Ray, The Incredible"), The Pinoy Playboy, and Aloha Al (The Hula Gal). Other Sini-Gang members have also made their presence known, incuding Ghost Face, Big Poppa Drunk, Midori Flower, Candy Corny (AKA Mrs. Gamma Ray), Amazing Dumb Ass, Captain Lunacy, Sinner-G, and Miss Magnetic.
Why Do A Podcast?
In June of 2005, L-Boogy mentioned the idea of doing a podcast to Sterno. They talked about it, and figured, "Why not?". After all, it would be cool to be one of the first to take advantage of this new medium. But there were other reasons beyond that, to take time out of their weekly schedules and dedicate it to "The Sini-Gang".
They identified podcasting as an opportunity to represent Filipino-American life in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. After all, second generation Filipino-Americans are now making a noticeable, positive impact in the region and and in the country as a whole. More and more Filipino-Americans are making names for themselves in politics, business, community activism, sports, and entertainment. They also deserve a presence in the burgeoning arena of podcasting.
Podcasting is also a great way to reach Filipinos and Filipino-Americans around the globe. Through "The Sini-Gang" listeners hear informal discussions about topics that range from the monumental to the mundane as seen through the unique second-generation point of view. For some who do not live in an area with a high concentration of Filipinos-Americans, this is a way to reconnect with people who share a similar background. Others download the show to get a glimpse of Filipino-American life in a specific region of the United States. And some just enjoy the Filipino topics and the friendly banter between old friends.
On a more personal note, recording "The Sini-Gang" offers a good excuse for college buddies to gather and talk on a regular basis and not just on special occasions. It's just one more way to keep in touch. Also, podcasting is a productive way to blow off steam after a rough work week. There's something therapeutic about speaking one's mind in a free and friendly exchange of ideas.
The bottom line is that "The Sini-Gang" will continue as long as people listen, there is new ground to explore, and it remains a fun activity to share among friends.