Friday, January 30, 2009

NEW MUSIC FRIDAY!



Check out Hollywood Holt repping the GO (CHICAGO, ILLINOIS that is). Holt had this week's winning Freshmen video "Hollywood" on MTVU. Check him out: http://www.hollywoodholt.com/




Music Corner: Mayer Hawthorne and The County

Mayer Hawthorne & The County

I always enjoy being put onto new music.(Thnks Fadia!) And below are a couple of songs from Mayer Hawthorn & The County. Very reminiscent of that good ole' music from the 60's and 70's.

Go here to read more about this artist.

Just Ain't Gonna Work Out



When I Said Goodbye

Are you Serious?: Peta Ad Too Sexy for NBC


Peta ad banned from the Super Bowl!?

Who would've thought rubbing a spare of broccoli down your bare body would be considered to racy for television?

(Jan. 28) - NBC has deemed a PETA commercial featuring lingerie-clad models demonstrating their fondness for veggies too sexy for the Super Bowl, the animal rights group said.

Read the full article here.

Super Bowl Menu Part V...THE END

Ok...so all week I've given you a few options for a banging super bowl party menu (still awaiting an invite but that's another story). The big game is this weekend and while the Steelers are favored by a touchdown I expect this season's Cinderella team to pull it out. Even if the Steelers D covers Fitzgerald they still gotta watch out for Boldin (both are Cardinals Wide Receivers). Boldin was the man for the Cards all season and while all the attention has been focused on Fitz during the playoffs I'm telling you Boldin will let loose this weekend. Party hard and drink responsibly. Most importantly...don't forget to hit me with an invite!
GO CARDINALS…YEAH I SAID IT!


COACH HOUSE GRILLED SHRIMP

16 med. or lg. shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails on1 c. dry white wine 3 shallots, chopped or 3 green onions (white part only) finely chopped 2 lg. cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp. olive oil 2 tbsp. lemon juice1 1/2 tbsp. Dijon mustard 10 black peppercorns, crushed Bamboo skewers, & extra oil

Place shrimp in non-metal bowl.
Combine remaining ingredients.
Pour over shrimp.
Refrigerate, covered 3 hours.
Let stand at room temperature before grilling.
Drain marinade from shrimp.
Bring marinade to boil and reduce to 1/3 cup, about 10 minutes.
Place shrimp on soaked bamboo skewers.
Add presoaked wood chips (if desired) to hot coals.
Brush grids with oil.
Grill shrimp over hot fire 3-4 minutes each side, brushing with marinade.


Spiced Sweet Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

"Serve with pita bread-you can cut pita bread into wedges and toast it for a different taste sensation. Tahini is a sesame paste, you can usually find it in the Mediterranean section of your grocery store."

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained
1 (4 ounce) jar roasted red peppers
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons tahini
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley


DIRECTIONS
In an electric blender or food processor, puree the chickpeas, red peppers, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne, and salt. Process, using long pulses, until the mixture is fairly smooth, and slightly fluffy. Make sure to scrape the mixture off the sides of the food processor or blender in between pulses. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (The hummus can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Return to room temperature before serving.)
Sprinkle the hummus with the chopped parsley before serving.

Dirty Vodka Martini recipe

3 oz vodka1 oz dry vermouth1/2 oz olive brine
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker half-filled with cracked ice. Shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, garnish with an olive, and serve


Flaming Dr. Pepper recipe

3/4 shot amaretto almond liqueur1/4 oz 151 proof rum1/2 glass beer
1. Fill a shot glass about 3/4 full with amaretto and top it off with enough 151 proof rum to be able to burn. 2. Place the shot glass in another glass and fill the outer glass with beer (right up to the level of the shot glass). 3. Ignite the amaretto/151 and let it burn for a while. Blow it out (or leave it burning if you're brave - not recommended) and slam it. Tastes just like Dr. Pepper.


After Party recipe
SERVES 8

32 cups pineapple juice
16 cups vodka
16 cups sugar
512 oz ginger ale
32 cups cranberry juice
ice
Mix all ingredients! More or less vodka and sugar can be used. Mix to your taste!

NBA ALL-STAR 2009 RESERVES



Didn't I tell you the coaches who pick the reserves would get it right. Damn fans with their starting 5 selections...I'm still pissed about those. It baffles me how the league awards fans the right to select the starting roster but doesn't provide available tickets for fans to go to the games. How backwards is that?!! Actual All-Star games are so boring to attend. It's all about being seen.


In any case here are the Reserves:



Eastern conference reserves

Chris Bosh (Raptors)
F/C
6-10
230
Georgia Tech

Danny Granger (Pacers)
F
6-8
225
New Mexico

Devin Harris (Nets)
G
6-3
185
Wisconsin

Joe Johnson (Hawks)
G
6-7
235
Arkansas

Rashard Lewis (Magic)
F
6-10
215
Alief Elsik HS

Jameer Nelson (Magic)
G
6-0
190
St. Joseph's

Paul Pierce (Celtics)
F
6-7
235
Kansas

Western Conference reserves

Chauncey Billups (Nuggets)
G
6-3
202
Colorado

Pau Gasol (Lakers)
F
7-0
227
Spain

Dirk Nowitzki (Mavericks)
F
7-0
245
Germany

Shaquille O'Neal (Suns)
C
7-1
315
LSU

Tony Parker (Spurs)
G
6-2
177
France

Brandon Roy (Trail Blazers)
G
6-6
211
Washington

David West (Hornets)
F
6-9
240
Xavier

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Local Music Events: Atlanta, GA: Tonight B'N'B Supports Gaza


Tonight Broke' N Boujee is back with "Make Love Not War" @ the Five Spot in Little Five Points. Music by DJ Dibiase and DJ Apple Juice.Photos by Hannibal. Hosted by Ian Ford.

This special edition of BNB will help the refugees of GAZA. Proceeds will be sent to U.N.R.W.A [United Nation’s Relief and Works Agency ] and will assist in sending medical supplies, medicine and clothing to the refugees.

You can learn more about this UN approved organization here.

"Don't Bomb the Babies" special edition BNB t-shirt will also be available with proceeds being donated to UNRWA.

Love and Shake
JC

Fashion Corner: Thrifting O' Thrifting!

So I fulfilled my weekly thifting ritual last nite and went to Value Village. Since it was the last Wednesday of the month, I was super "geeked" because all apparel is half off on that day. I don't have any pictures of my fabulous finds but I did run across the video about the store on youtube.com, who would've thought!

I have been living in the "Season of the Dress" (particulary vintage) for some time now, so there's no wonder as to why thats all i purchased last nite. I found some great 80's, and early 90's inspired dresses. I can't wait to go out this weekend!!!!

Since I dont have any pictures yet, here's a very dope website for my Vintage Fashionistas. The Urban Collection is a selection of the finest vintage sourced from across the globe.

Check out these really fly vintage dresses all available @ The Urban Collection.



NBA Scores Around the League 1/28/09


Super Bowl Menu Part IV



Cheesesteak Sliders
Serves 8


Prep Time: 15 min

Cook Time: 20 min

7 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound beef tenderloin, cut into thin strips
Salt and pepper
2 large bell peppers, cut into thin strips
2 onions, halved and thinly sliced
16 dinner rolls, split
6 ounces provolone cheese, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)

1. Preheat the oven to 375°. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat until rippling. Season the beef with salt and pepper, increase the heat to high and cook in the skillet for 3 minutes; flip and cook for 2 minutes more. Transfer to a bowl.

2. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add the peppers and onions, season with salt and pepper and cook over mediumhigh heat, stirring, until softened, about 8 minutes.

3. Place the roll bottoms on a large rimmed baking sheet and top each with the beef and vegetables; sprinkle with the cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a platter and cover with the roll tops.


Beer Batter Onion Rings


Ingredients:
1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 large sweet onions, sliced
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 egg yolks
3/4 cup beer

Preparation:Mix together the flour, salt, pepper, oil and egg yolks. Gradually whisk in the beer. Refrigerate the batter 3 to 4 hours before using. Slice onions into rings; separate rings and dip in the batter. Deep-fry in batches in 370° oil until golden brown.


Game Day Nachos


Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped, optional
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Tortilla chips, 1 large bag
2 plum tomatoes, diced
4 green onions, thinly sliced
jalapeno pepper rings or diced jalapeno peppers
3 to 4 cups shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
**Optional Toppings and Sauces**
chopped cilantro
sour cream
salsa
guacamole

Preparation:Brown the ground beef and onions over medium heat until beef is no longer pink and onions are softened. Add green bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, refried beans, and tomato sauce. Simmer over low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed.

Heat oven to 375°. F.

Spread some of the beef and bean mixture on each chip and arrange the chips in a single layer on the large baking dish or ovenproof plate, or use smaller ovenproof plates or dishes. Sprinkle the layer with a little of the diced tomato, sliced green onions, and jalapeno peppers. Sprinkle each chip with some of the cheese and make another layer of chips. Repeat with the tomato, green onions, peppers, and top with more cheese. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Makes enough for 6 to 8 people.


Puerto Rican Punch recipe

SERVES 10


7.5 oz sloe gin


7.5 oz vodka

7.5 oz gin



Serve straight up in a hurricane glass. Float the grenadine on top.



Strawberry Daiquiri recipe

SERVES 10


Put all ingredients into an electric blender with 2 cups of crushed ice. Blend at a high speed for a short length of time. Strain into a collins glass and serve with a straw.

Scale ingredients to servings
5 oz strawberry schnapps

10 oz light rum




Add ingredients with a bit of ice in a blender. Blend and then strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish w/ strawberry.


Carbomb recipe

SERVES 8





Combine (proportions of 50/50) Bailey's Irish Cream and Irish Whiskey into one shot glass. Drop the shot into a mug of guinness and chugg until empty.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

NBA Scores Around the League 1/27/09



Still can't believe Mr. MVP (Kobe) fouled out a game and the Lake show lost to the Bobcats


(INSERT GAS FACE HERE >>>_<<<)


Bobcats-
117
Lakers-
100

Spurs –
106
Jazz-
100

Nuggets-
100
Grizzlies-
85

Magic-
135
Pacers-
111

Cavaliers-
117
Kings- 110

Super Bowl Menu Part III


Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This great spinach and artichoke dip recipe comes from Kevin, from the blog Closet Cooking. The great thing about spinach and artichoke dip, besides the fact it's a party favorite, is just how easy it is to make. Mix it up, bake to a bubbly, golden brown, and serve with your favorite breads and crackers. Makes about 24 Portions of Hot Spinach And Artichoke Dip

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:
1/2 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained
1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped
4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, very finely minced
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, or domestic Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mozzarella, grated

Preparation:Mix everything and pour it into a baking dish. Bake in a preheated 350 degrees F. oven until bubbling and golden brown on top, about 30 minutes.

Spicy Three-Bean Vegetable Chili Recipe

This spicy three-bean vegetable chili recipe is so tasty and satisfying, you'll forget it's vegetarian. You can use whatever combination of beans you like, but the three varieties called for in this chili recipe work very well together. Makes 6 Bowls of Spicy Three-Bean Vegetable Chili

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded, minced
1 red bell pepper, seeded, diced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder (or more for spicier chili)
1 tbsp ground cumin
2 tbsp ancho chili powder (or other chili powder)
1 cup tomato sauce
4 cups water
1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained
1 (15-oz) can pinto beans, drained
1 (15-oz) can red kidney beans, drained
1 pound package frozen sweet corn, thawed, drained well
salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
6 oz pepper Jack cheese, shredded

Preparation:
Add the olive oil and onions to a pot, and place over medium heat. Saute the onions until they are translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add the garlic, jalapeño, red bell pepper, oregano, chipotle, cumin, and chili powder. Cook stirring for 3 minutes. Add the tomato sauce, water, black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, take a potato masher, or spatula, and mash some of the beans against the bottom of the pot. This will thicken the chili. The more you mash the thicker it will become as it cooks. For a medium-thick texture mash about 1/4 of the beans (you can always mash more later). Stir well and simmer for another 10 minutes. Serve in bowls with shredded cheese on top. You can also top with any traditional garnishes like cilantro, sour cream, etc.

Cajun Appetizer Meatballs

This is a spicy appetizer meatball recipe with a sweet and tangy sauce. Try it over a bed of egg noodles.

Prep Time:
15m

Cook Time:
40m

Ready in:
1h

4 servings


1 pound lean ground beef1 1/2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce1 tablespoon dried parsley1/4 cup finely chopped onion1/4 cup fresh bread crumbs1/4 cup milk1 egg1/2 cup barbeque sauce1/2 cup peach preserves

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a medium baking sheet.
In a large bowl, mix thoroughly the ground beef, hot pepper sauce, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, onion, bread crumbs, milk, and egg.
Form the mixture into golf ball sized meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until there is no pink left in the middle.
In a small bowl, combine the barbeque sauce and peach preserves.

When meatballs are done, place in a serving dish and cover with the barbeque sauce mixture. Toss to coat.

Crispy Potato Skins

Top these crispy deep-fried potato skins with shredded cheese and chopped cooked bacon.

Ingredients:
4 large baking potatoes, scrubbed
salt
pepper
oil for deep frying
sour cream mixed with chives, optional
shredded cheese, optional
cooked bacon, crumbled, optional

Preparation:Prick potatoes in several places with a fork; bake in a 400° oven until tender, about 1 hour.

Remove, cool slightly, and cut in halves lengthwise. Scoop out potatoes and refrigerate for another meal or casserole topping. Cut skins in half again.
Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°. Place potato skins in deep fryer basket; lower into oil and deep fry for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until skins are browned and crisp.
Transfer potato skins to paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve with sour cream and chives, if desired, or top with cheese and place under the broiler to melt.

BLACK AND TAN

The Black and Tan has become a popular beer drink. It is a layered drink of a pale ale (ie. Bass, Boulevard, Sierra Nevada) on the bottom and Guinness Stout on the top. These two beers make a perfect "black and tan" layer in the glass if they're poured correctly. Because of this drink many bar taps with stout will have a Black and Tan spoon attached, which is the key to those great layers. As you drink this beer mix you'll find the two stay layered and that the finish is the complete opposite of the beginning.

Ingredients:
8 oz Guinness Stout beer
8 oz pale ale beer

Preparation:
Pour the pale ale into a pint glass.
Float the Guinness on top to fill the glass, by pouring it over a bar spoon (or Black and Tan spoon) over the pale ale.

TEQUILA GIMLET

Serves 10

10 oz lemon juice2.5 oz Rose's® lime juice20 oz white tequila

CHAMPAGNE PUNCH

There are many Champagne Punches that you can make. This one in particular is both easy and fruity. Serving a punch like this at any party is a wonderful way to celebrate the occasion with the bubbly and is especially appropriate for New Year's and housewarming parties. Recipe makes 25- 4 ounce servings.

Ingredients:
12 oz frozen fruit punch, partially thawed
10 oz frozen strawberries
2/3 cup orange juice
2 Tbsp lemon juice
24 oz ginger ale
1 qt Champagne
3 cups water

Preparation:
Place a frozen ice ring in a punch bowl.
Add the fruit punch, water, strawberries, and juices.
Stir to dissolve the punch.
Slowly pour in the ginger ale and Champagne.

What's wrong with the damn Clippers!








10-34…10-34! That’s the record my beloved Los Angeles Clippers have as we approach the season’s half way mark. Now as you read this you
might frown your face up ever so slightly and mutter to yourself, “THE CLIPPERS”…yes you read it right, the Clippers.

My love for the franchise dates back to my days in Inglewood, CA. Everyone was a Lakers whore but not me. I rode for 2 teams during that era…The Chicago Bulls (well not really the Bulls, I was more of a BJ Armstrong fan but they did have gold old #23) and the Clippers. I had attended many Lakers games but the Clippers were cheap. They were heavily involved in the community and always dishing out free tickets to schools in urban areas. That’s where my love began.

With Larry Brown we shocked folks and went to the playoffs during the 91-92 season, and made it back to the 1st round during the 92-93 season. From then went the team endured a downward spiral but gained momentum by drafting Lamar Odom during the 99 draft and moving to the Staples center. By the next season we acquired D.Miles, Q. Richardson, and Keyon Dooling in the draft and picked up Corey Maggette via trade. Now we were on a roll and were dubbed the high flying Clippers, exciting to watch and a good ticket.

The next season I started my internship and ended up working with the organization for the next 7 seasons. The same season they picked up Elton Brand via trade for Tyson Chandler. During that time players came and went but the organization continued building. The highlight of my sentence as a Clippers fan came during the 05-06 season. We picked up Cuttino Mobley and Sam Cassell via free agency, Shaun Livingston was entering his 2nd season and was proving himself to be a stellar PG in the NBA. The Clippers made it to the playoffs and were a game shy of making the Western conference finals.

After that my friends…I don’t know what happened. My Clippers….My beloved Clippers just keep hitting a wall. Its bad enough I don’t recognize anyone on the roster (EVERYONE FROM THAT 05-06 PLAYOFF SEASON'S GONE). I think the only positive move the team has made was building a practice facility in Playa Vista.

Now I know you didn’t log-on for me to rant about my Clippers but I’m angry. I can’t continue to keep being a laughing stock out here. The only thing that keeps me going is that run during 05-06 when I was able to hold my head up high and was proud to be a Clippers fan. What I wouldn’t give to have those days back.

Fashion Corner: Dunk Exchange


I ran across a video on Vimby some time ago about Dunk Exchange. Dunk Exchange is an event dedicated to buying, selling, and trading rare kicks and street wear of all kind.

I'm kinda upset to see they wont be in ATL this quarter because this is such a fly event for fashion connoisseurs.

Speaking of exclusive kicks check these out!

Nike Pendleton Blazer,Limited Edition $150.00 available here.

Beauty Corner: Hair Tips W/ A Chi FLat Iron

Another beauty tip from Xteener.
A couple of styles to do with a Flat Iron, one of the best inventions yet!

(Boofy this one's for you!)


Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Local Music Events: Atlanta,GA: PITBULL @ Opera

Super Bowl Menu Part II




Beef Taquitos

RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more for brushing on the taquitos
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
3/4 pound lean ground beef
1 cup salsa, plus more for dipping
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
10 (6-inch) flour tortillas
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack
Sour cream

1. Heat the oven to 400°. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook them for 3 minutes, stirring often. Add the beef and use a wooden spoon or a spatula to break it up while it cooks, until it is no longer red, about 3 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup of the salsa, the chili powder, and the salt and pepper. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.

2. Place the tortillas on a plate and cover them with damp paper towels. Microwave them until warm and pliable, about 45 seconds. Top each tortilla with 1/4 cup of the beef mixture, spreading it to an inch from the edges. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the beef.

3. Roll up the tortillas and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet with the seam sides down. Brush the taquitos lightly with vegetable oil, then bake them until the filling is heated through and the tortillas are lightly browned, about 8 to 12 minutes. Serve them hot with sour cream and/or salsa.
Serves 4 to 6.

Easy Guacamole

Avocados, onion, chopped tomato, garlic and a splash of lovely lime juice. That 's all. Well, maybe a dash of salt and pepper and an hour or so in the refrigerator. Fabulously easy.

2 avocados1 small onion, finely chopped1 clove garlic, minced1 ripe tomato, chopped1 lime, juicedsalt and pepper to tasteDirections

Peel and mash avocados in a medium serving bowl. Stir in onion, garlic, tomato, lime juice, salt and pepper. Season with remaining lime juice and salt and pepper to taste. Chill for half an hour to blend flavors.
Servings Per Recipe: 16

Mexican Quesadillas

These Mexican quesadillas are a terrific quick and easy dinner or snack for kids. Serve with tomato salsa, chili con queso and guacamole.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. butter
8 flour tortillas
1-1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 can diced green chiles, drained

Preparation:
Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat.
Spread butter on one side of each tortilla. Flip over.
Divided cheeses and green chiles among four tortillas, buttered side down. Top with remaining four tortillas as if making a sandwich, buttered side facing out.
Place quesadillas, one at a time, in hot skillet. Cook, flipping once, until cheese is melted and quesadillas are golden brown, 1-2 minutes per side.

Seven Layer Dip Recipe

This seven layer dip is a popular appetizer for parties, potlucks, holidays and game day celebrations.
You can make your own guacamole for this recipe, or buy it. You can now find refrigerated, vacuum-sealed guacamole that is quite good at most supermarkets. Look for it in the produce section.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
2 cups low-fat sour cream
1 Tbsp. chili powder
juice of one lime
1 14 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1-1/2 cups store-bought or homemade guacamole
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sliced black olives

Preparation:
Place lettuce in the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream, chili powder and lime juice. Spread over the lettuce, leaving a 1/2-inch border all the way around.
Sprinkle black beans over the sour cream layer.
Top with guacamole, leaving a 1/4-inch border so you can see the sour cream layer underneath.
Top with the tomatoes, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and top with the olives.
Serve immediately with tortilla chips.

Sangria

The beauty of the basic Sangria recipe is that it is as delicious as it is easy, and it only gets better as you spice it up with your own additions! Really, it is hard to add the "wrong" ingredient here, think favorite fruits, spice and liquors. Chill and enjoy!

Prep Time: 0 hours, 5 minutes

Ingredients:
1 Bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Rioja reds, Zinfandel, Shiraz)
1 Lemon cut into wedges
1 Orange cut into wedges
2 Tbsp sugar
1 Shot brandy
2 Cups ginger ale or club soda

Preparation:Pour wine in the pitcher and squeeze the juice wedges from the lemon and orange into the wine. Toss in the fruit wedges (leaving out seeds if possible) and add sugar and brandy. Chill overnight. Add ginger ale or club soda just before serving.
If you'd like to serve right away, use chilled red wine and serve over lots of ice.

Addition ideas: sliced strawberries, peaches, handful of fresh blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, a shot or two of gin, brandy or rum, a cup of ginger ale, citrus soda pop or lime juice.

Texas Tea

This potent punch is perfect for any party or to mix up in a pitcher and store in the refrigerator. The recipe features five of the six base spirits and this makes it only for the strong-willed, certainly non-driving party-goer. Be sure to serve this over ice, it dilutes the drink just enough. You might also want to try Touchdown Tea.

Ingredients:
2 oz tequila
2 oz rum
2 oz vodka
2 oz gin
2 oz bourbon
2 oz triple sec
2 oz sweet and sour mix
cola

Preparation:
Fill a 1 gallon pitcher with ice.
Pour all the ingredients, except the cola, into the pitcher.
Stir well.
Add the cola to taste.
Stir again.
Pour into a glass over ice and serve.

NBA Scores Around the League 1/26/09




Phoenix
103
Washington
87

Atlanta
79
Miami
95

Houston
98
New York
104


Philadelphia
86
New Orleans
101


Minnesota
90
Milwaukee
83


New Jersey
85
Oklahoma City
94


Portland -113

LA Clippers -88

Monday, January 26, 2009

The Real World: Pfizer To Buy Wyeth for $65B


I know this isn't really "StarrstrukkSoul" like.... but since i did work in the pharma arena, this peaked my interest.

TRENTON, N.J. – No. 1 drugmaker Pfizer Inc. said Monday it is buying No. 12 Wyeth for $68 billion in a deal that ultimately will wipe out nearly 20,000 jobs but quickly boost Pfizer's revenue and profit and transform it overnight into a medicine cabinet for all.
To read the rest of the article go here.

Are you Serious?: Jeans that cost a stack!?


Are you serious?

Tom Ford is launching a jean retailing at $990.00.
It's said to have a front button that is 18-karat gold plated, and the pockets are lined with fine silk. They're made from raw-looking pre-washed Japanese selvage denim and won't shrink or shed indigo on any of your favorite undershirts.

I guess we know who didnt get the recession memo!

Super Bowl Menu Ideas!

Super bowl is this weekend! Some folks like to be out and about for the event but for those that prefer the house party atmosphere…I’ve decided to post two recipes a day. This way you can have your drink and appetizer menu complete before the big game.

Now ladies please don’t grab a seat closest to the TV if all you’re going to discuss is how nice Edgerrin James butt looks on the field or how long Troy Polamalu’s hair is. Leave that conversation for the kitchen. For those not prepared for this year’s NFL action. I have a system that will help you learn the players and the game in one shot…FANTASY FOOTBALL. You kill 2 birds with one stone but I’ll get you ready for all that before the start of next season.

Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
· 4 to 5 pounds chicken wings
· Freshly ground black pepper
· Salt (if desired)
· 4 cups vegetable oil
· 4 Tablespoons butter or margarine (1/2 stick)
· 5 Tablespoons Louisiana-brand hot sauce or Tabasco sauce
· 1 Tablespoon white wine vinegar

Preparation:
Chop off the tip of each chicken wings, and discard it. Chop the wing in half (cutting at the joint) to make 2 pieces. Grind on fresh black pepper and sprinkle with salt if desired. Heat the oil over high heat in a deep skillet, Dutch oven, or deep-fat fryer until it starts to pop and sizzle (around 400 degrees F). Add half the chicken wings and cook until they're golden and crisp, stirring or shaking occasionally. When done, remove them to drain on paper towels and cook the remaining wings. Melt the butter or margarine over medium heat in a heavy saucepan, add the hot sauce and the 1 tablespoon of wine vinegar.

Stir well and remove from the flame immediately.

Place the chicken on a warm serving platter, pour the sauce on top, and serve.

Yield: 8 to 10 servings

Note: Buffalo Chicken Wings are traditionally served with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Golden Margarita recipe

***SERVES 8***
12 shots 1800® Tequila
12 shots Grand Marnier® orange liqueur
8 shots Rose's® lime juice
8 shost sweet and sour mix

Shake ingredients vigorously with crushed ice in a shaker glass, and pour over crushed ice in a lightly salted margarita glass. Garnish with a twist of lime, and serve with two cocktail straws.

Fashion Corner: Kanye and Louis V. Team Up

Kanye West and Marc Jacobs @ Louis Vuitton show.
(
Photo:Courtesy of Louis Vuitton)

By now you should know that Kanye West ("Mr. Vainamatic", "Mr. I get my fashion from gay people".. "Mr....." yall know who I'm talking about) teamed up with Louis Vuitton to design a sneaker. The shoes were unveiled at the Fall 2009 Paris Men's Fashion week on January 22, 2009. About the shoes inception , Kanye was quoted as saying:

"We started from the sole. We made it lighter weight and flexible, so you can bend it…. I was inspired by the movie “Dune” because, as you know, I love sci-fi…. The collection had all these jackets that were very padded. They looked like maybe they had hockey pads in the jacket, and there was one where the collar came up really high. I took that element and I put that on the back of the shoe. It’s like the opposite of the tongue. Usually you have the tongue at the front. [This is] like a tongue at the back."


Guys? What do you think about this one.....



Fashion Corner: Very Sex and the City


This was my "Sex and the City" super budget buy from Target yesterday. The Sigerson Morrison for Target Roxanne Jeweled Pump in silver!I bought them at the store for $9.74 but found them online here for $8.74. Either way I had to add them to my shoe collection!

For those unaware, Sigerson Morrison is a leader in the designer footwear world. They are recognized for their well crafted, original and chic shoes embellished with beautiful details like gleaming hardware and delicate bows.

They teamed up with Target as a Go International line offering the chic shoes for fashionistas at budget friendly prices.


This is my latest favorite: Sigerson Morrison Huarache Boot, $1690.00 available here.

NBA ALL-STAR 2009


NBA All Star Starters have been selected. Crazy the league still allows the fans to pick the starters. The reserves maybe…but not the starters. It seems as the same group of guys are coveted for this top spot year in and year out. I think there are many guys that deserve to be starters this season and weren't awarded the opportunity. With the fans picking the starting 5 team records go out the window. If you are on a losing team I don’t think you deserve a spot on the all star team. How in the world Allen Iverson was chosen as a starter for the umpteenth season and it doesn’t look like Chauncey Billups or Carmelo Anthony (I know he’s hurt but he still should have been selected as a starter) will be chosen is beyond me. Touché!!!
Well I can at least look forward to the coach’s half way getting things right when they select the reserves.
((( NBA All-Star weekend takes place February 13-15 in Phoenix, Arizona)))

1
* Allen Iverson (Detroit)
G
6-0
180
07/07/75
Georgetown

3
* Dwyane Wade (Miami)
G
6-4
216
01/17/82
Marquette

23
* LeBron James (Cleveland)
F
6-8
250
12/30/84
St. Vincent/St. Mary HS

5
* Kevin Garnett (Boston)
F
6-11
220
05/19/76
Farragut Academy (HS)

12
* Dwight Howard (Orlando)
C
6-11
265
12/08/85
SW Atlanta Christian Academy (GA)
5

-->

24
* Kobe Bryant (L.A. Lakers)
G
6-6
205
08/23/78
Lower Merion HS

3
* Chris Paul (New Orleans)
G
6-0
175
05/06/85
Wake Forest

21
* Tim Duncan (San Antonio)
F
6-11
260
04/25/76
Wake Forest

1
* Amare Stoudemire (Phoenix)
F
6-10
245
11/16/82
Cypress Creek (Orlando, FL)

11
* Yao Ming (Houston)
C
7-6
310
9/12/80
China

1/25/09 NBA Scores Around the League

Mavericks-100
Celtics-124

Spurs-85
LA Lakers -99

Suns -104
Hawks-99

Raptors-113
Kings-97

Rockets-108
Pistons-105

Bobcats-93
Pacers-98

Timberwolves-109
Bulls-108

Nuggets-117
Jazz- 97

Clippers 92
Warriors 107

**NHL all star game went down last night with the Eastern Conference defeating the West in a Shoot-Out 11-12**

Beauty Corner: Sultry Smokey Eyes

Here's another beauty tidbit from Xteener on how to create that sultry smokey eye.

The Most Beautiful Photo From Inauguration Day!

President Barack Obama waves alongside his wife, Michelle, Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, as former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, leave the Capitol by helicopter after Obama was sworn in as the 44th president in Washington Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009.
(Saul Loeb/AP Photo)

Friday, January 23, 2009

Featured Store: Chicago,IL : LEADERS 1354


LEADERS 1354 is one of Chicago's premiere Street Wear shops. For over 5 years, they have been housing such Scenester/Social favorites as BBC, Nike, Fashion Geek, Evisu,Enstrumental, Too Black Guys, and not to mention there own Leaders 1354 brand.

Featured in such magazines as Complex, Kicksclusive, and XXL, certifies them as leaders in the "Hipster" fashion retail arena, a force to reckon with and upholds their vision to “Stay ahead of the curve!”

For your shopping pleasure, they have 2 locations in Chicago, (Wicker Park and Downtown Chicago), in addition to their web store that you can check out here.

I'm diggin this Fashion Geek Sweatshirt!

TNT Thursday Recap!




Greetings! Your resident sports blogger checking in. Not much went on in the league (NBA) last night. Of course it was TNT Thursday and you had a powerhouse match-up in the East with the World Champion Celtics defeating the Orlando Magic 90-80. Mr. P. Pierce dropped 27 points shooting 8-18. I was looking for boy D. Howard to put on a show but it just wasn't that kind of night for the kid. He did manage to post a double-double (11 points and 11 boards).

The 2nd game of the evening showcased the lowly Washington Wizards battling it out in Cali against the 1st place Los Angeles Lakers. TNT must have been hurting for a game last night. The Lakers embarrassed the Wizards last night. Being up by 36 points at one point during the game. Bynum coming off a career game against the Clippers where he dropped 42 points and 15 boards the night before was still on a roll last night leading the Lakers with 23 points and 14 boards. The Wizards once a force in the East, missing their MVP starter in Gilbert Arenas for the second season looks to have a high lottery pick on the horizon!

Enjoy the weekend folks!

***REMINDER***

No football this weekend! But get ready for what should be an exciting match-up between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardnials next weekend! Fitzgerald is a beast!

MAN CAVE: I LOVE YOU ,MAN


Beauty Corner: Smokey Green and Burgandy Eyes

I have never been the girly girl, who wears makeup and primps all day, partially because I didnt know how. I found this on youtube this morning and thought it was cool. 8 1/2 minutes of how to appy some fly shadow....Check it out!


For more Beauty tips visit Xteener's youtube channel here.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Local Art Events: Atlanta,GA :Art Show @ City of Ink



Cold Circus: An art exhibit with a mixed assortment of works by Kermin Middleton. Friday, January 30,2009 @ 7pm-12 am @ the City of Ink Tattoo Shop and Art Gallery.

Local Music Events: Atlanta, GA: Hollyweerd vs.Yelawolf


Local Atlanta artist, Yelawolf and Hollyweerd, are having a showcase on January 30 @ Lenny's Bar. Doors open @ 9:00 pm and the show starts promptly @ 9:30. oh yeah.. admission is free.

Hollyweerds latest project, Electric Showroom is available for free download here.

Unsure of who Yelawolf is?( What a tragedy!) Check him out here.


***Love and Shake!***

JC

A good morning laugh

This video is fairly old but it's funny as heck! A great early morning laugh!

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Love and Shake


The new axiom for 09'.
Simply meaning love your neighbors and shake the haters off.

Yesterday was such a remarkable and heartfelt day. The emphasis of good will and service to your community was the focal point of every Inauguration event. It was not just a day of swearing in but a day of action for every American to step up to the plate and be accountable.

We as Americans are being called to be accountable for the progress and change in our relationships and communities. We are on the heel's of true patriotism being restored. We are getting back to the romantic America, where you love your neighbor and have pride in all that surrounds you and for once in a very long time I am excited and hopeful.

My axiom,"Love and Shake", derived from those very thoughts of the new administration. With all of the fervor around yesterdays activities there was still just enough hate, which ofcourse we'd all expect.

I witnessed people voice some of the most ignorant comments yesterday, and and I was disheartened for a moment. I later shook it off after hearing someone on television refer to President Barack Obama as not only the President of the United States of America but the Leader of the Free World!.


(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Love and Shake!

JC

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Head Games


Some time ago I shared my affinity with turbans. Now over almost 2 years later that love hasnt gone away.And now in 2009 the HEAD GAMES are still on. These are my latest favorites. Reminiscent of the 1920's flapper movement.

Plumage Head Bands
Urban Outfitters
24.00


(I found a recession friendly version at Rainbow for 4.99. You make the choice.. you know your wallet!)

I also enjoy the feathered veils, double braided head bands and bow head bands and wraps.

Let the Head Games begin!

Laughter is the best medicine for the heart.....


CHEERS to the "Dawn of a New Day!"

Regardless of everyone's political views, you can not deny the overwhelming spirit of hope and a foreseeable CHANGE that is encompassing not only the U.S. but the world...

With that being said, take the time today to sit back and reflect on whats to come in these next years and how paramount a part WE ALL have to play to ensure this is not just a thought, dream, or suggestion but OUR reality.

(Cartoon Courtesy of www.mediatakeout.com)