In just a few short hours, millions of soccer (or should I say football) fans across the globe will tune in for the kickoff of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. With more than 136,000 U.S. fans in attendance, we’re sure to hear rousing chants of U-S-A circling the stadium.

To give soccer novices a little background, the World Cup is held every four years and is undoubtedly the most prestigious competition in the world of soccer. Over a one-month period, 32 teams will compete to claim the title of World Champion – not to mention, major bragging rights!

The festivities begin tonight, the eve of the opening match, with the Kick-Off Celebration Concert. The show starts at 2:00 PM (EST) and VEVO is planning to webcast all of the action, including performances by Alicia Keys, The Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, Shakira and more. Don’t forget to tune in to ABC on Saturday, June 12 at 2:30 PM (EST) as Team U.S.A. squares off against England.

New Yorkers in search of places to watch the games can check out Metromix New York’s “Where to Watch” list.  

And, if you’d like to do your homework before the games begin, refer to “The top players to watch in South Africa” list on the NY Daily News website. 

Jennie Long

When I moved to New York City two years ago I was told that I would not be considered a “New Yorker” until I celebrated my fifth anniversary in the city. Fair enough. However, I felt like a “New Yorker” last week when the Yankees won the World Series. Decked out in Yankee blue, I celebrated with fans from all over Manhattan and beyond.  

With many famous fans in attendance, including Kate Hudson, Spike Lee and Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the pinstripes-clad team ended their season in the new Yankee Stadium with a bang. Marking the 27th World Series win in Yankee history, fans are already hoping for an equally impressive season in 2010.
 
Hunter PR celebrated the big win with Yankee-themed cupcakes that were distributed to the tune of “ We Are the Champions” playing in the background.

Seven tried-and-true HPR fans even ventured down to the Victory Parade on Friday morning.

Braving the cold temperatures to show their support for the new champs, “Hunters” watched as Matsui, A-rod and crew made their way up the “Canyon of Heroes.”

I may have three years to go, but even without the “New Yorker” title, I will continue to wear my Yankee blue with pride.  

Jennie

Last week I joined four Hunter’s for the Kelly Clarkson concert at Hammerstein Ballroom. I must admit, I like Kelly, but my dear friend and colleague Michael LOVES her. I was excited to hear live music, but was also excited to watch Michael belt out the lyrics to “Since U Been Gone.”

With our general admission tickets in-hand, we huddled into the sea of people, anxiously waiting for the action to begin. Eric Hutchinson was the evening’s opening act. The Billy Joel-esqe singer engaged the crowd with six songs from his debut album, including the crowd favorite “Rock & Roll.”

When Eric exited the stage, we waited in anticipation for the woman of the hour. After swapping favorite Kelly songs with fellow fans, the pink curtain dropped and we didn’t stop singing for the next hour and a half! She sang the best tracks from her current album as well as a few classic favorites. Highlights included a mashup of Alanis Morissette’s “That I Would Be Good” and Kings of Leon’s “Use Somebody” and a cover of The White Stripe’s “Seven Nation Army.”

I knew going into the show that Kelly has a great voice, but the American Idol winner blew me away! I think its safe to say that Reba McEntire, who watched the show from the front row, was also thoroughly entertained. I glanced over at one point to see the country crooner recording a video on her cell phone.

Jennie