Favorites
Whether you are a client or contest winner, you must have some redeemable quality to be featured here.
Barley Iced Tea (Mugicha)? ... is Liquid Gold!
Published: March 2, 2010
I'm surprised this tastes good. I was expecting a heavy, nasty flavor like cold lentil soup juice, malta, or malted (though some swear by these aquired tastes.) To be Coffee and Tea Festival technical, barley iced tea is really an infusion because it lacks Camellia sinensis (tea) plant.
However, that's not why we're here. Mugicha actually tastes good. This roasted grain provides a smooth, comforting nutty taste and is not bitter say like black pekoe tea where you find yourself trying to "doctor it up" or conceal its taste with lemon, sugar, and the like.
I particularly enjoy the convenience of this mugicha format because it makes it easy to have iced tea in the summer without heating the whole kitchen. The special tubular tea bag with pulverized grain is to be simply inserted in a plastic two liter bottle of water and place in the refridgerator until desired color/temperature.
Always Infinity Sample
Published: September 22, 2009
Please note that the picture doesn't necessarily represent the sample you may receive.
Arm & Hammer Toothpaste Sample
Published: September 21, 2009
Request your sample at http://www.tryarmandhammer.com/
Whitney's Back!!!
Published: August 10, 2009
This is just a taste of what her new album has to offer. This dance tune is reminiscent of the 70s, fun, laughter - good times. But more importantly this track reminds me of the Whitney Houston we all fell in love with; I can't wait for album release Monday, August 31 which was pushed up from Tuesday, September 1 to probably make her eligible for this year's Grammy's.
Michael Jackson Memorial Program Can be Downloaded for Free
Published: July 8, 2009
Tom Suarez Photography offers people a chance to download pictures of the program for FREE!
Photos provided by PhotosByRome.com
Short Kut the Movie: Maybe Nice Guys Finish First
Published: July 7, 2009
Upon hearing that Anil Kapoor of Slumdog Millionaire fame was now producing the movie Short Kut and starring in the 24 TV series, I thought how wonderful to see a career advance so quickly. He must know some savvy secret shortcuts of his own to get ahead in life, but he's been a popular Bollywood star for 30 years via his own hard work and talent. His career is not unlike the history of Indian Cinema. While some got a taste of Bollywood via Slumdog, India actually has had a long film tradition since the turn of the century - the last century starting in 1913. Hence, I now better understand Rishi Malhotra (president and COO of Saavn) comments on wanting to bring so called Bollywood to the world. Another community notable Rajeev Bhambri (COO of rediff.com and India Abroad) who promotes the industry to his two million readers also shows support by co-sponsoring press conferences like yesterday's and today's conferences for Short Kut.
I will not be going to the press conference at Chakra Cuisine in Beverly Hills today. However, judging by my experience at the modern, upscale Pranna Restaurant in New York City, attendees will have a pleasurable experience. We tasted vegetable samosas with curry flavoring, chicken satay with tamarind sauce, fried chickpea balls featuring cheese inside, and some other delectable vegetarian fare that I was too busy devouring to inquire. Desert included a mango, passion fruit Patron drink and a savory and sweet cake. Guests were also treated to the Short Kut soundtrack of mostly vibrant dance tunes.
Everyone will have an opportunity to see Short Kut an entertainingly funny film with a message starting Friday, July 10th. To find a theater near you or for more information, please visit http://studio18india.com/movies-shortkut.htm#cl
Tamaya Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Published: June 8, 2009
As soon as I sipped the Tamaya Sauvignon Blanc, I knew it was the wine for me. The initial whiff of botanicals excited me to immediately taste then savor this smooth white. Upon closer inhalation, I felt the sun start to warm my face while enjoying a refreshing fragrant breeze of olives pass over me. And I envisioned what it must be like to live in this Chile, to possibly explore the Andes, to visit the Pacific coast, to relax in the warmer weathers all in one country. I need a vacation, but for now I can start with this superb wine that manages to be only ten dollars. It makes a great hostess gift, picnic accessory, but I can't wait to try it with paella.
Health and Beauty Giveaways
Published: June 8, 2009
I enjoy reading the articles, learning how to protect hair from UV rays, getting discounts. But I know some of you are just contest whores - so here we go.
Every week or so
Cris Simone gives away full size product like Lisa Hoffman - Bath Soak , Jane Carter Solution - Nourish & Shine, and Ligne St. Barth's Avocado Oil. Maybe you too can be a winner.
Farrah Delaunay Bambou Handbag Launch
Published: June 7, 2009
Edward Tyler Nahem Gallery showcased the stylings of handbag artisan Farrah Delaunay amongst its abstract offerings. Ms. Delaunay brought forth the classic shapes of Europe in both the vibrant and neutral hued patterns of Africa to press, stylists, and other fashion enthusiasts May 20th.
While David McDonald Events provided appetizing refreshments like Prosecco, chicken wings served with a creamy cilantro sauce, and cucumber gazpacho, this audience was more excited by the collection. Some favored the petite, monochromatic lambskin bourse which revealed a burst of color in the exposed lining at the top. Others envisioned the compliments the vivid Brazaville Beach Bag would garner. I don't see myself allowing the sand to creep into this delightful lambskin detailed bag, but maybe those that tote toy sized pets in only designer labels would let the surf near this rendition of the beach bag. I had a tough time deciding my favorite among these and other styles like the brown Kampala Hobo, but for now, I have chosen the Casablanca Weekender in green
for now. To see which style suits you, visit
Farrah-Delaunay.
Guests left with a bold print African inspired gift bag including
Jebel Argan Oil which is used for external anti aging purposes. I don't have wrinkles yet which is probably the point (to use before you get all crinkly.) I hope this Moroccan miracle oil will keep me as youthful looking for as long as possible.
The other contents of this health and beauty conscious goody bag were: Wake Up Women: Be Happy, Healthy & Wealthy - a guidebook, 100% pure Vita Coco coconut water,
At Home Pampering gift certificate (no more having to dress up and go out- just to dress down, relax, dress up and hastily leave), and
Tru Chocolate which allowed a specific higher dosage if you were in a heavier weight category.
Free Grilled Chicken Meal Courtesy of KFCPublished: May 6, 2009
You will need to download a coupon printer on the computer to get the coupon to print. It includes TWO pieces of grilled chicken, sides, and one biscuit. You will only be able to download and print the coupon until 11:59pm CDT, but the coupon itself is valid until May 19th save Mother's Day.
Free Aveeno Samples
Published: April 22, 2009
I love free stuff and according to AVEENO... The best way to see how the AVEENO® NOURISH+ Hair Care Collection can recharge your hair with healthy, new life is to give it a try! Choose from the NOURISH+ VOLUMIZE, NOURISH+ REVITALIZE, NOURISH+ MOISTURIZE, or NOURISH+ SOOTHE products and get a free shampoo and conditioner sample and coupon sent straight to your door.
Published: April 14, 2009
John Legend's voice is classic: smooth and soulful, and Jus Bus puts a twist in the background with his choice of soaring rock influenced melodies. Inspirational. Listen at http://www.indabamusic.com/submissions/show/6598 Please vote for his remix, if you agree.
Passion Fruit Caramel by Christopher Michael Artisan ChocolatesPublished: November 09, 2008
You would think beautiful people would create beautiful children or tasty flavors would create the ultimate combination, but alas this is not always the case. Usually with passion fruit and chocolate, one part is too sour, another too sweet or the whole piece is one saccharine mess. However, Christopher Michael manages to strike the perfect balance between the artfully decorated dark chocolate and the passion fruit caramel. It is a little sweet, a little tart, and completely flavorful.
Younity "Heart & Soul" Exhibition & Book Launch 10/17/08
Published: October 19, 2008
All things graffiti Alphabeta served as the perfect spot to host the Younity "Heart & Soul" Exhibition & Book Launch. There was of course the obligatory wine and cheese for the opening, but the tradition stopped there. Past the cherry wood room of skateboards, apparel, and tools, was a semi-divided large space that held such curios as a mural, oil stick on linen, and "Good Wood" jewelry.
I liked seeing how artists were able to find any object and transform it into their own personal expression. These artists epitomize urban survival skill. Good Wood artist Kerri O' Connell carved multi-finger rings to be pigeons, Nikes, and other symbols of city life while B.I.C's created "Hide" out of cardboard. Martha Cooper used photography to show people relaxing on the stoops to probably escape the internal heat of their brownstones. Thus, allowing everyone an anthropologically glimpse of dress and social interaction of "Washington DC 1968."
Despite the variety of mediums and artist backgrounds, all works depicted an accurate aspect of love and soul. Katrina K (RUKUS) demonstrated youthful exuberance in "All Heart" which looks as though it was ripped from a boy crazy teen's notebook. Alice Mizrachi's ironic "Flor" portrayed a traditional Spanish woman with sleepy, seductive eyes while garbed in the virginal, white lace mantilla. Bolder still was Irene Stergios's "Untitled" showing a woman awaiting a secret rendezvous above scaffolding. This woman strategically pulls her mini dress to only expose a partial butt cheek; perhaps this is the modern version of coy tantalization.
Of course there is the other side of love and romance that people might have to endure. As is the case with Gillian Goldstein's demonic looking "Trophy Wife." Hopefully, most people are able to find the confidence, love, and happiness of Lichiban's "Heart So Full" or of Kelly Jeanne Lever's "Motherly Love."
There are even more works to be seen and had including those done by prominent artists Lady Pink and Toofly. Luckily, there is still time to visit the exhibit before it closes November 17, 2008. Alphabeta is located 70 Greenpoint Avenue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
Diesel's Triple Delight for Its xXx Anniversary: The Rock and Roll Circus 10/11/08
Published: October 13, 2008
Saturday's main event at a DUMBO pier was a spectacle of circus and music and all that that would imply. I would have been content with one chip, but Diesel brought the entire Hot Chip band and the O'Fracas to open the rock and roll concert portion of the evening. Oh and um yes, CHAKA KHAN was in the house! I had to shed a tear of joy for such a great artist to perform three of her hits and share the stage with other popular performers. I knew N.E.R.D, M.I.A. (who only seemed pregnant after changing into a bra, open jacket, and a stretch skirt), and Franz Ferdinand would rock out, but the unexpected T.I. stole the show by performing several hits including material from his current album which is number one in the country. I had to chuckle a little bit when he told the crowd to buy his album when he is already number one. How else did he got there if we weren't already buying?
In between sets, the crowd was entertained by DJs Joel and Benji of Good Charlotte. Those fortunate enough to secure a ticket for the Saturday night circus and arrive early at the tent were greeted by contortionists, a woman carrying a large yellow snake, and above the bar Little People were smoking, drinking, and playing cards. Other acts included a live marching band, aerial acrobatic performers, and Host Joey Arias who was dressed like a kinky soldier from Ancient Rome. The crowd kept shifting from watching them to ravaging the food (hot dog, popcorn, funnel cake, cotton candy, and Tasti D-Lite) and open bar accompanied with Tropicana juice, Tava, or Red Bull.
One person fell on the floor during their grand mal seizure which may have triggered by being continuously pushed by the crowd while waiting so long for a drink at the bar, forgoing seizure meds to be able to drink, and/or the visual excitement of the party's spectacle. The crowd was so tight that I saw designers Richie Rich and Baby Chic exit the VIP balcony area for fresh air. Luckily the fire marshal stepped in with simple instructions that thinned the crowd but allowed for the show to continue. I am so happy to have been part of the front allowed to stay.
This event was worth skipping work and waiting in line for hours just for the hope of getting a single ticket for entry. It all really began Friday with the Diesel Store pre-party. The Union Square locale featured celebrity DJ Pete Rock, Little People ring masters, a gothic hell angel looking person and an assortment of beverages (mimosas, bloody mary's, Guru energy drink, beer, water.) Hence people inside the store had an opportunity to be entertained as they bought the limited edition jeans embroidered with 1978 and 2008 and received a ticket. Outside the store, people were treated with complimentary NY Daily News and Red Bull Cola.
Malibu Rum's Noche Blanca with Mr Mauricio, Alex Sensation & Jaslene (Top Model) October 8, 2008
Published: October 9, 2008
As soon as I heard the live steel pan, I knew I was entering a great event. After quickly maneuvering a couple of pics with the Brazilian Carnival clad ladies, one of the lovely hostesses greeted me with a tasty coconut Mailbu rum with coke which heightened my regular Cuba Libre experience. The main party area met me with mojitos, rum punch, and other drinks to sample. However, I must admit the kid within leaped for joy at the sight of the rum snow cones. While Malibu may have been one of (if not) the first to feature flavored rums, I eagerly sampled the banana, passion fruit, mango, pineapple, and coconut as though it was my first time. Between the drinks and the tunes featuring mostly reggae, salsa, and hip hop I had to break my NYC blasé cool and dance. I even saw the super thin Jaslene groove to the beats. This experience was rounded out by the aerial acrobatic artists and other Malibu dancers.
Edwing D'Angelo: Saint of the Fashion World?Published: February 3, 2008
Edwing D'Angelo performed small miracles at his "Awakening" fashion show this Friday. He was able to get members of the fashionable set such as Amanda Lepore to come during the torrential rains, remain after the vodka evaporated, and wait for his show which started later than expected. In fact, there were so many people clamoring to get to their seats that their collective body heat made the adjacent room humid. Even the opened windows on the vacated side of the room were fogged as though it were a scene from the "Titanic."
Just as impressive as the enthusiasm of
his attendants, was the actual "Awakening" featuring both women's and men's wear.
D'Angelo successfully combined innocence, daring, and sophistication for the women's line. The favorite piece was a black lace coat that was paired over a cream colored full A-line skirt with a high, flat waist. Yes, the top half of the jacket was see through, but a large black satin bow was strategically tied around the neck to provide both style and modesty.
Edwing D'Angelo understood what other portions of society may have failed to notice; women are capable of being both risqué and conservative all at the same time. Thus, they are quite capable of various layers and dimensions. Another design that exemplified femininity, was his floor sweeping red tartan dress featuring a long sleeved, black chiffon top that revealed the model's breasts. While the buyer of this haute couture will most likely wear a flesh colored bra, the idea is intriguing none the less because it was done seriously, respectably, and not as a gag costume at the end of a show.
Mr.
D'Angelo also challenged our views of masculinity by combining barbaric and genteel ways on the runway. He chose large fur pieces draped over the shoulder reminiscent of what a caveman might sport with neatly tailored shirts and pants. The men sported button-down shirts with a print on the back, ascots, and over-sized capes just as easily as lip gloss and lip liner.
Major trends from his collection for the women included red, tartans, and a fitted silhouette especially around the waist. The men enjoyed a more varied color palette including browns and water colors.To see your own little miracle, visit
http://www.edwingdangelo.com for more information.
