Thursday, December 10, 2009

Larger Salary cap for KNICKS but at What Cost to their Fans?


Mike D'Antoni head coach, has been drilling the Knickerbockers for two seasons. Knicks fans were, at first excited for the recuritment of former Phoenix Suns coach, are now agitated by his lack luster record (7-15). Prior to D'Antoni's arivial at Garden New York employed the most hated coach in the franchise; Isiah Thomas. Thomas began coaching in 2003. Ishiah produced a significantly better recored with the Knicks in his first two seasons in comparison to Mike D'Antoni's first two season. D'Antoni preforming poorly under less shrewd critisism than Ishiah, is a slam in the face to the large batch of 'Ishiah hatters".
The Knicks were and still need to play higher quality basketball; this Is common knowledge. Unfortunately great measures have been taken to ensure a future superior stating line up. The franchise has been saving money by trading players like Jamal Crawford, and Zach Randolph to make room for the fabricated grantee of LaBron James. Although the Knicks are saving money for next years salary cap, at what cost to the fans? With a recored slightly above New Jersey Nets (a godawful team this season) fans hopes for the play-off are non-exsistant. With room open for two all star player next season lets hope we can sweep these past two season under the rug. Contrary to hype around LaBron James as a free agent for next season; which is a considerable repetitive subject, 2009-2010 season is in progress lets focus on the NBA now!

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

PTDS; Recognize Symptoms from New War Vets


The Us troop Afghan speech given by president Obama ensured that 30,000 additional troops will journey to war. The country plans on spending 30 billion added dollars towards war efforts, this all while America is coping with a trillion dollar deficit. An array of public figures and dignitaries were appalled by the idea; prolonging war. However current war issues are not obsolete, forcing the Obama administration to finish the current war. The president quoted past president Roosevelt a great deal, and reiterated our countries morals. Attempts to give current soldiers hope and a will to fight. Brawny faces throughout the crowd of troops appeared troubled with thoughts of going to war. Many young Americans coming back from war are suffering for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Nearly 30% of troops develop this disorder, but only 10% properly treated. Many do not seek help due to social effects and career set backs. PTSD is not a new disorder; to compare rates between wars is difficult, past war only survey soldiers 10-14 post war time, now they are tested on the spot.
Post war vets notorious for experiencing alcoholism, insomnia, and anxiety stresses, are sooner spotted panhandling after failed attempts at professional careers. Domesticity for many may can feel impossible or effortless. Young persons remembering parts of battles won or lost will return to us in the near future. Modern day society should be informed on what to expect from our soon to come war vets from Afghan/middle east. Young men and women one day will return, and hopefully the economic crisis will be non-existent, until then prepare for troops coming back with symptoms of PTSD and be informed.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

No Tabaco in TriBeCa?


Smoking; once considered posh is now unsophisticated. The dirty habit is banned from all public buildings. Now its not permitted in the privacy of your own home? Apparently a tenant living in a luxury building located in Tribeca is being sued for secondhand smoke affecting the health of a nearby neighbor. The condo where the tenants reside allows smoking, but the persons at risk are trying to win $25,000 from the neighbor who enjoys a cigarette in the privacy of their own home. Bloomberg attempted to pass a law preventing smoking in local parks, this was quickly vetoed by outraged New Yorkers. The neighbor paying just as much rent as everyone else has the right to smoke freely in their apt, explained the plaintiff. The judge has not dismissed the case and the suit is still pending. Smoking is prohibited just about anywhere but in someones own house?

Friday, November 27, 2009

EFfin Gruven (Best Bar on Long Island NY)


Effin Gruven is a bar/lounge in Long Island located at 2562 Sunrise Highway Bellmore, NY. The bar is not your typical Long Island bar. Unlike most bars in the surrounding area its crowd is diverse and with the widest selections of beer one can opt for whatever their taste buds desire. Ambiance consist of intimate seating for couples in a remote section of the bar, and sizable seating for large groups towards the entrance. The beer list is written in a multi colored sidewalk chalk on big boards giving the place a hipster like scene. When having a beer at Effin Gruven one would not know they were hanging-out on Long Island. The bar does not serve food, however a vending machine where one can purchase 'Effin"Munchies" is available. Initially when one hears the name Effin Gruven its sounds comical but once you unwind in the place after a long week, you will agree that its actually effin cool. The prices are considerable low, great music and sports for listing and viewing pleasure. However this neo bar does not have an official website, only a low maintenance Myspace page which understates the bar significantly. If one ever finds themselves in Long Island do not panic there is a place to go that will not make you want to run back to the city (NYC) its called Effin Gruven check it out!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Go Forth; Levi Jeans...



Americans have been wearing jeans since the 1800's. The most well known jean is Levi's. They were the first jeans ever made. When one thinks of a brand of jeans, Levi tops the category even though every clothing line known to man has jeans, Levi Strauss was the creator. When you would think of Levi the word "retro" immediately follows.
Until now! There new campaigns targeting demographic are teenagers (well who else would it be figures show they are the group that's spends the most money on clothes). While watching television late night, you many become nervous when coming across the commercial 60 seconds long with youngsters frolicking around in remote rural places. The background noise is not music but rather a gaping robust voice reciting a poem by Walt Whitman (Pioneers! O Pioneers!) If that is not dismal enough another one of the commercials entirely black and white with fire works resembling bombs busting in air. Levi's patriotism in abundance. However the ads come off as gothic like with a very mundane essence. The new direction Levi is taken is unpredictable, and edgy; GO FORTH.

LETS GO NEW YORK!


Lets GO YANKEES! Tonight may be the last game to ensure the 27th world series and the first win in the new stadium or what is currently called "the house Jeter Bulit". Game 6 tonight for Phillida fans will be grueling to watch. Yankees expensive players are humbled and excited for the chance to win the series. Teixeira and Matsui saved the day in games 2,3 with HR hits to pull the Yankees back in the lead. Anxiety built for Yankees fans after the threatening Pedro Martinez cocky press conference was aired prior to game 2. Bronx Bombers unlike their fans were thrilled to see the old Arch rival Martinez back for a dose of is own medicine. The Yankees have a little cushion with a 3-2 lead in the series, but they should not count count their chickens yet a game 7 is still possible. CC Sabathia can appear disheveled but normally gets the job done. Andy Pettitte brings the heat and forces outs from heavy hitters. Alex Rodriguez has been quiet during the series, but is expected to play a quality game tonight. Cross your fingers for the Bronx Bombers tonight may bring the NEW YORK their 27th WORLD SERIES!

Friday, October 16, 2009

Modern Family the new Normal Family


Reality TV has dominated televising air ways for far too long. Modern Family, a new series on ABC is a show everyone must watch! A contemporary depiction of an ordinary American family. Based on three family's one of which are a gay couple with an adopted baby; the families are related and show one another unconditional acceptance. Its non prosaic atmosphere makes the show humorous and realistic. The characters are not overacting their roles but merely identifying with them. Prime time TV veteran Ed O'Neill whom you may recognize from the hit 1980's series Married with Children leads the cast with his comedic essence. The gay couple are moderately stereotyped but also convey normalcy. Other shows tend to make a mockery of homosexuals by casting persons for overly flamboyant roles. Modern Family focuses on normal family matters using the "new" normal family. You can watch the show on ABC wednesday nights at 9:00pm do not miss it!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Has MTV gone too Far?


MTV is known for..well not its music videos these days but its sizable amount of hit tv shows. Room Raiders, The Hills, and My Super Sweet 16 are just a few sires on MTV's show schedule. Currently the channel has added another show. "Gone Too Far" the recently added show reveals drug addicted youngsters and there quest for sobriety starting the late DJ AM as the host.
If an A-lister was in search of DJ, DJ AM was on the list of top party spinners in the industry. He was in a group called Crazytown who's song "Butterfly" went number 1 the top 40 charts in April 2001. Others may remember him from his high profile romances with Nicole Riche and Mandy Moore. DJ Am drawbacks consisted of but not limited to his drug addiction and a long battle with obesity. In his early 20's he was using cocaine and became heavily addicted shortly after. At age 30 he underwent gastric bypass surgery which controlled his weight. One would imagine after kicking his drug and eating habit he would be on top of the world. And on top he was! Until his death on August 28, 2009 from an accidental drug overdose.
MTV has officially GONE TOO FAR. DJ AM's show is now on the air, after considerable evidence proving the host relapsed from drug overdose. What message is the channel sending to adolescence teenagers as they glue themselves to the show. The irony is too apparent for people not to consider the release of the television show disturbing. The actual footage of Amy (addict of the first episode) injecting heroin was too much for the DJ to deal with. When filming he had to reconnect to his own faulty past, evidently his incentive to help backfired tremendously. Did MTV really need air the new show "Gone Too Far", and is this ethical?

Friday, October 9, 2009

Joyce Stevens, written for Women's Liberation Broadsheet, International Woman's Day, 1975.


Because a woman's work is never done.
and is underpaid, or unpaid, or boring, or repetitious,
and we're the first to get fired,
and what we look like is more important than what we do.
And if we get raped its our fault
and if we get beaten we must have provoked it
and if we raise our voices we're nagging bitches
and if we enjoy sex we're nymphos
and if we don't we're frigid
and if we love women it's because we can't get a real man
and if we ask our doctor too many questions we're neurotic or pushy
and if we expect childcare we're selfish
and if we stand up for our rights we're aggressive and un-feminine
and if we don't we're typical weak females
and if we want to get married we're out to trap a man
and if we don't we're unnatural
and because we still can't get an adequate, safe contraceptive, but men
can walk on the moon
and if we can't cope or don't want a pregnancy we're made to feel guilty
about abortion
and for lots and lots of other reasons
we are part of the women's liberation movement...
*

Hard Times at Harvard?


RECESSION, RECESSION, RECESSION! The masses are tired of repetitive discussions about what horrible shape the economy is in. Everyone is going through financial sets backs during these tuff times however some more than others. Colleges are starting to notice cut backs on campuses. For example the New York Times wrote an article about Harvard hard times, apparently Harvard is suffering minor finical hardship on there campuses. The article focuses on different types of cuts at the Ivy league, for example the student body is unhappy that hot breakfast will no longer be available in the dorms. I cannot speak for all but when I lived in the college dorms I do not recollect the luxury of hot breakfast available a few feet from where I slept. The facility is complaining about the cookies they well no longer have at staff meetings. Poor "HARVARD", these lost amenities sound detrimental to the academic success of the students bright futures. I understand that their tuition is a great deal of money ($48,868 to be exact) but is it necessary to whimper about such minuscule perks. The students should take their current experience and coalesce with one another. Endowments have dropped from $36.9 billion to $26 billion in just one year. That is a significant drop for a college that prides itself on donations from wealthy Alumni. Times are difficult but maybe it would be best if those who are not suffering a great deal should keep their howl's about hot breakfast, and cookies to a minimum because as we all know things could be worse....

Monday, September 21, 2009

View Skyline at NYC's Newest Park 'HIGH LINE'!



New York City's skyline holds one of the greatest scenic gratifications to the human eye. The elite have been enjoying views of the city at high altitudes via penthouses, rooftop dining etc, and now everyone can enjoy the luxury of being closer to the skyscrapers at 'The High Line'. High Line is a park located on Manhattan's West Side. It runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street, between 10th & 11th Avenues. Section 1 of the High Line, which opened to the public on June 9, 2009, runs from Gansevoort Street to 20th Street. Initially High Line was built during the 1930's for freight trains in order to conduct the transporting goods without congesting the streets of Manhattan. However it hasn't been used for actual transporting since 1980. With the help of non-profit agencies the park was built, and what a park it is! Being at High Line park was a breath of fresh air. The park is 30-feet in the air, and one can see a vague view of the Statue of Liberty. The park's contemporary design is phenomenal, making other parks in the city appear archaic. The benches are sleek and comfortable, and the landscape possesses a wild life look, as opposed to perfect looking grass containing an abundance of chemicals one would notice at golf courses and such. Instead of hot dog vendors many other parks have High Line occupies gourmet cupcakes and coffee vendors. In addition seating is available for eating and drinking, however alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the park. Near 14th st at High Line, amphitheater seating is available for a view of the cites traffic through an enormous glass placing the observer right above the action. If you keep walking down the strip you will run into a outdoor/indoor art display. High Line resembles a boardwalk like atmosphere with a chic city edge. The new park for now is a New York City hidden treasure, so enjoy the High Line while its not too High on the list of attractions for the NYC tourists we all adore!

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Kayne Gives Overexposed Knowles Acclaim at VMA's


By now we have all heard about Kanye West and Taylor Swift episode at the VMA's. West stole her moment at the VMA's, by taking the mic during Taylors acceptance speech and saying Beyonce should have won best music video. Kanye is known for shouting idiotic phrases on live television. After Hurricane Katrina dissipated in 2005, Kanye,on a quest to raise money to help the disaster told America, that "George Bush doesn't care about black people". He earned himself weeks of bad PR for that comment and, now 5 years later he has done it again. West embarrassed himself by trying to give a shallow praise to the over exposed Beyonce Knowles. The public was not awakened by Kanye's actions but rather appalled by his behavior. His outburst are redundant and any shock factor he yearns for is no longer exist.
Taylor Swift received an apology from Kanye after the incident happened, but it did not make the situation disappear. Mr. West appeared on Jay Leno Show expressing his apologies to the public. Many feel his behavior is due to the recent death of his mother. Which may be a cop-out however does not excuse his outlandish shenanigans. Although his talents seem endless in hip hop, he is no pro at public speaking. When on Jay Leno Show he had a hard time expressing himself, and seems to be at a lack of words when asked about his mother. A man with a vast gift to play on words in his music had a difficult time articulating an apology in plain English. Kanye gave us a plethora of amazing albums such as 'College Dropout' and 'Late Registration" but maybe he should take a break from music, by going back to college and majoring in proper "VMA Etiquette".

Sunday, September 13, 2009

ViViaN gIrLs...Another Bad Creation!


Vivian Girls are a fairly new underground band with a a lackadaisical sound, and a retro tone. The girls have adopted Brooklyn as there hometown. To simply state the Vivian Girls are Emo, and Hipster like would be an understatement. However redundant as the terms are, the Vivian Girls are exactly that. How many independent, edgy, underground bands desperately trying to avoid selling out can we endure.
All girl bands normally have a difficult time being taking seriously. To receive credibility as a female music artist without the essence of a sex symbol is rare. Hence why Beyonce accrues more media exposure than Jenifer Hudson, not considering Hudson is vocally more talented than Knowles. But why are all girls bands not taking seriously? First, when naming a group almost anything goes, but when girls put the word 'Girls' at the end of their band name it takes away originality. Its obvious they are girls it's not necessary to say it in the groups name. Secondly, in every photo opportunity the girls appearances are unpleasant. Aside from marketing criticisms there music sounds miserable. You cannot understand their lyrics and the instruments drown out any lyrics you would have heard if someone preformed a sound check. The Donnas who are a more well known all girl band, have a bigger budget, but can actually play instruments. Vivian Girls are a mediocre band, with a lot of underground publicity. However longevity is not something I see in their future. All girl bands have a stigma for being weak and not talented, the Vivian Girls have their work cut out for them.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Stop! Instead of Buying a dog, ADOPT!



Man's best friend; a dog. We all adore dogs, even people who pretend to hate dogs or may even be terrified of them ultimately have a soft spot for the lovable canines. We yearn for the companionship from a judgment free object of affection.
When in the market for a new dog, its common to long for a purebred. Although they are beautiful they are also overpriced, in addition they are breed for economic purposes. When the canine breeders cant sell the animals the dogs are desuetude.
When dog shopping I suggest adoption, rather than supporting the dog breeding industry. Stray From the Heart is an agency which facilitates adoptions that is non-profit. The agency prides itself on giving stray dogs happy and healthy homes. The dogs are strays and in many cases coming from abused settings. However beware stray dogs tend to be aggressive when first adopted or fostered by a new or potential owner. They are not perfect looking dogs that one would buy at a puppy mill, but once they become accustomed to their new environment the adoption will be well worth it. An extreme amount of dogs do not have good homes, so when in the market for a new canine before buying consider adopting.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

"Red Bamboo" The Posh Vegetarian Restaurant?


A very important person in my life decided to practice vegetarianism, as a result I accompanied her to RED BAMBOO. Red Bamboo Soul Cafe is known for comfort vegetarian dishes. The dishes include a wide variety soy compound mixtures that makes one not feel like a vegetarian. The seating is very tight and the restaurant only holds about 25 guest. For example I ordered Southern Fried Chicken, and I was served three pieces of knock off chicken that taste like fried rubber. My sweet potato french fries were under cooked and dry, after taking one glance at the 'collard greens' I knew tasting them would be a godawful idea. I requested a new dish from the waitress in exchange for my old dish. She advised me that I would be charged for both dishes and an exchange was out of the question! The waitress was cavalier and spoke to me as if I were incompetent in regard to vegetarian cuisine. The employees at the establishment were arrogant and not very helpful, vegetarians always seem to present a 'holier than thou" attitude. After a small verbal spat I was accommodated accordingly. Red Bamboo Cafe may need to work on customer service. In addition maybe they should be informed that being a vegetarian is a 90's trend its all about vegans now!

Monday, August 24, 2009

How Many Tattoo's do you have?


Are tattoos overdone yet? The reasons people get tattoos are for decorative/spiritual uses, identification, or superficial cosmetic reasons. I am not trying to suggests stereotypes on any specific group, but you would normally only notice a person in the armed forces or jail with a tattoo (at least during the 70's and 80's). Now its seems like everyone has a tattoo. They are extremely commercial and overpriced; the more tattoos the better! Body art has become an ice breaker in conversation. Instead of complementing someone on their eyes, you would now start by saying something clever about his or her tattoo. Followed by the standard question "did that tattoo hurt"? It baffles me, a society with an attention span of about one minute can make a permanent decision about anything. After getting a tattoo one must take into consideration their professional career they may or may not have at the time. Many establishments, or cooperation's do not want to see a rose that takes up half the space on ones arm. Which limits your daily dress code.

Walking into a tattoo parlor I noticed a small group of arrogant, machismo guys in there mid to late 20's tattooing girls, while engaging sexiest small talk (to say the least I was appalled by the social setting). The art of tattooing is a male dominated industry, however Kat Von D has made a name for herself in Hollywood. She has her own reality show (L.A. Ink) and is very talented. In addition Kat Von D has launched a makeup line with SEPHORA that is geared toward her tattooing art. One of her popular new cosmetic items are 'Tattoo Concealer". The idea is this; you spend hundreds of dollars for an amazing tattoo, that you have to ultimately cover up with over priced concealer from the artist that inspired you to get a tattoo (Kat Von D). It amuses me how the consumer circle of finance works! It seems like everyone wants tattoo's because they are fashionable but in retrospect are they worth it?

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Natural Disaster in Central Park after Dark!


Central Park; a breath of fresh air for a city filled with sky scrappers, smog, and pedestrian congestion has tree debris's everywhere. Although the damage is minuscule compared to most natural disasters during hurricane season, the park looks terrible. American Elms, and Tulip Trees were completely ripped out of the ground similar to broken lead tips on a perfectly sharpened number 2 pencil. Wind speed went up to 70mps and the tropic like storm lasted 30 minutes. Early this month a man, Sasha J. Blair-Goldensohn, 33 was hit in the head with a falling branch in central park. That incident seems to foreshadow the latest tree wreckage last Tuesday. In this short amount of time the park has been transformed. Hundreds of trees around the city has fallen or snapped branches. The city plans to create mulch out of trees that are too damaged to repair. Weekend runners were stunned to discover the park makeover. Central Park is NYC's backyard. A place where couples and families discover little nooks for one's own outdoor time. Central Park is not completely destroyed, but it did take a major fall.

Saturday, August 22, 2009

"Post Grad" a Delightful Movie for a Rainy Weekend!


If you are looking for a charming, realistic, slightly humorous movie than "Post Grad" is what you want to see. Staring Alexis Bledel, Zach Gilford, Michael Keaton, Carol Burnett, Rodrigo Santoro, and directed by Vicky Jenson. Alexis Bledel who you may recognize from the hit series Glimore Girls, is the main character (Ryan Malby). A 22 year old post graduate searching for the career of her dreams, and discovering her inner self during the process. Persons in their 20's finishing college would be able to relate to the movie. It is delightful. The family is middle class, and the witty grandmother is played by Carol Burnett . Unlike other films where you may notice women in their early 50's, with bad Botox playing grandmothers who should be in their 70's; Carol Burnett is actually 76 years old, which gave her role a sense of authenticity. The movie trailer depicts the films budget to appear extensive, however it looked more like an independent film. Post Grad is a cute movie for family or friends, and if with friends going out for a couple of drinks will be a great after movie affair.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Say Farewell to the Letter and Hello Mr.Twitter...

Keeping in contact with friends and loved ones is important. When someone dear to you relocates for whatever reason, people, pre-Internet would write a letter or call. These two forms of communication were the leading ways to contact anyone. To write a letter now would be considered bizarre (telephones however have maintained their importance, and are still used as much today as day one of their debut in 1876). E-mail, Facebook, blogs, and twitter are just a few of the most popular means of communication today. Many of these tools are great to have access to, and some are just pointless. Although these tools are convenient they lack endearing procedure to actually connecting. To write a letter takes more time than to simply type an e-mail and click send. You notice ones penmanship and types of stationary used for the letter, in addition depending on whom the letter was from and its context you would even save the letter. One normally would not save an e-mail, and if it were saved it would not be long before you needed more space in your inbox thus having to delete the mail. History of our country has been documented for example, letters written by soldiers in war and classic romances from adolescent phases. It was actual paper that was saved; a tangible item. E-mails, and tweets are not tangible and cannot be taken out of a shoebox for nostalgic purposes. Ask yourself this, WHAT WILL WE SAVE? There will be nothing to show our grandchildren, or even keep away in an attic. I suppose its time to officially say farewell to the letter, and hello twitter...

Monday, August 17, 2009

Is Shaquille O'Neal focused on his Game?


Shaquille O'Neal is a household name. WInning four NBA championships, three while playing with the Los Angeles Lakers and one while playing for Miami Heat he is considered one of the best basketball players. In addition to basketball he has attempted a carreer in the music industry by becoming a rapper. The effort was pathetic, and embarrassing to those in the music business. In addition to his pursuit in music he also begin an acting career which was absolutely pitiful. Just when you thought Shaq's feeble efforts in a career outside of basketball was over after the 90's, he now has a t.v show.
Shaq Vs the Big Show will star Shaquille O'Neal. The best athletes from different sports will compete with Shaq and discover weather or not Mr. O'Neal is truly the best competior of all time. Should anyone be so arrogant to think that they can compete in any sport or activity and be the best, after minimal training. At age 37 his NBA career on its last legs the great Shaquille O'Neal may consider taking a break from outside media antics, and focus on the end of his basketball career.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking forward to a great year since signing Shaq for the 2009/2010 season. Lebron James and Shaquille O'Neal may be reminiscent of Coby Bryant and Shaq duo that ended with three championships and tension thick enough to cut with a knife. However the season may turn out, the franchise is expecting an increase in ticket sales. Ask yourself this; at age 37 can Shaq bring another falling team with a star starting bench to the top?

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Taboo Subjects in Interracial Settings...

When you find yourself in mixed company certain subjects should not be discussed. Mixed company may include but not limited to Caucasian/blacks/Latin etc. This particular dissertation will focus mainly on persons who are black and white. The initial Taboo subject, while in an interracial setting is politics. Politics means choosing a side, and when in mixed company there are already different sides by obvious color differences. Talking about politics will further separate the group. We can all pretend we live in a non-racial Utopia and are too evolved for social stereotypes but they do exist. In addition other subjects arrive under the main topic of politics, for example the conversation can start with basic politics and easily switch to affirmative action. That is a red flag, if chit chat begins about affirmative action immediately change the subject. Affirmative action deals specifically with race. One side is pro AA (affirmative action) the other side is against thus separating the group further. People become uncomfortable talking about issues of race especially if that person is a raciest. Commonalities and opinions about the police between blacks and whites are vast. Historically police are known to whites as "problem solvers" and known to blacks as the instigators to problems. The subject on the police is TABOO stay away! I know these topics sound intense and wouldn't normally come up over a beer at the local pub, but even "lighter" conversation should can be considered taboo.
Hair for example is another taboo subject among interracial groups. Undeniable differences between certain hair types is a evident. Considering the hair texture of blacks and whites its a completely uncommon ground therefore should be avoided. Finally, social settings usually revolve around food and different food preferences may come about so, when ordering in a mixed company try keep to the more neutral side of the menu to please everyone. If you are at a restaurant and one side wants Buffalo wings and ribs and the other wants spinach dip and potato skins then a compromise is in order. Take into account cuisine choices and try to accommodate everyone.
These subjects are taboo for all the right reasons. Lets not make situations uncomfortable, and unless you want to spend you entire time being informative to one another as opposed to just relaxing stay away from these following subjects!

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Proper "girlfriend" Etiquette at a Party

How should girlfriends act at parties? Its simple, depending on what type of party a couple is attending different forms of behavior may vary. Let me begin with parties one would never bring his/her partner to; bachelor/bachelorette parties, and baby showers are completely out of the question. These events are same sex orientated and should not be interrupted with parties.
If you should decide to bring your girlfriend to a party, you should not feel like you have to "babysit" her. When you attend a party the incentive is to enjoy yourself. Simple stated no one wants to watch their girlfriends every move to ensure non-embarrassing moments. If your girlfriend has a low tolerance for alcohol then she should keep her drinks to a minimum. If she drinks too much and starts stumbling all over the place its your job as the partner to remove her from the setting ( discretely of course). If your girlfriend likes to dance than dance with her, its extremely important to trust her which means let her know its not a big deal if she dances with other people. If your girlfriend is dancing with other guys, it would be inappropriate for her to grind or do anything that looks too sexual on the dance floor. So basically keep any form of dancing with a another guy to a "two step" minimum (excluding girl on girl dancing). Your girlfriend should not cling on to you at the party, which means as the partner you should leave her alone for a bit so she could explore her setting while you do the same. This time frame of exploration should not be very long, keep it brief and then she will either go check on you or you check on her. If you were in a lovers quarrel before a party do not bring the issues to the party leave them home and deal with them after the party. No one wants to deal with your drama, because we go to parties to have a good time! Flirting is key, if a someone hitting on your girl do not not sweat just take it as a compliment. She obviously looks great and your are not the only person who notice this. Now she should keep conversation with the purser very short but not too short. Because if its too short its going to look like she is doing something wrong is is having thoughts of doing something wrong so its important for her to be polite. Back to the dancing, your girlfriend should not dane with you in a too intensely, for example if she is doing things or moving in motions that are normally preformed in the bed then she is doing too much! No one needs a sneak peak at what is going down after the party.
Its nice to to hangout with your girlfriend at a party, as long as everyone knows the rules.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Can new Philadelphia Eagles Fans forgive 'Vick"?


Michael Vick, the pro NFL player who formally played for the Atlanta Falcons beginning in 2001 was sent to jail in 2006 for dog fighting. Vick was forced to leave the sport and was sent to jail for 18 months. Since he has currently been released he has been searching for a new football team to call home. Many teams are apprehensive deciding weather or not Michael Vick should play on there teams or not. Michael Vick was NFL's number 1 draft pick in 2001 he is an amazing player, but fans have turned their backs on him since his dog fighting charges. After a careful assessment by the Philadelphia Eagles the team has decided to sign Vick. His starting contract if for 1.6 million, however now that the NFL has given Michael Vick a second chance, will football fans do the same?
Vick has been very apologetic to NFL fans since he pleaded guilty on dog fighting charges in 2006.

"There was a point in my life where I felt it was wrong and I knew it was wrong," he said. "To this day I have to live with that shame and that embarrassment."

Statements from Vick have been sincere and heart felt, and I feel the fans should let the issue go. He has completed the jail sentence and has been making great efforts in community service duties. Michael was recently seen in Chicago, assisting the humane Society to advocate against dog fighting. Hopefully fans are willing to forgive and forget; if Vick preforms like the NFL player he was prior to his arrest the NFL will have little problems letting him sign a full contract. Fans should be willing to give Vick second chance, everyone makes mistakes. Michael Vick has paid for his mistakes and is now able to play football; fans should forgive the football star and let him start the new chapter in his NFL career.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Why Americans Love the "Food Network"!


It has become a Sunday tradition in my home to watch food network for the entire day. My mother comes home from church, cooks breakfast for myself, dad, and little brother. After we eat breakfast my sister comes by the house for her weekly visit with my 3 year old nephew and we sit around the t.v. and watch the food network. The popular show in my home is Down Home with the Neelys and Paula's Home cooking. The two shows main focus are southern dishes with a twist of course. Growing up in home where my mother cooked everyday was amazing. Most children during the 90's did not have this luxury (divorce rates were at an all time high during the 1990's and single parents were normally to busy to cook). Although even today with divorce rates a little lower it seems people are more engaged with watching other people cook than actually cooking themselves. Cooking is time consuming and exhausting, coming home from an 8 hour work day to make a 45min meal while taking care of little ones just doesn't seem particle. So why do we love to watch other people cook but not do it ourselves? Lets look at my sister for an example; she purchased designer pair of pots and pans that she noticed on her favorite cooking show (Down Home with the Neelys). However she hardly uses them at all, which is baffling to be because she loves to eat, loves to watch people cook, but she does not like to cook herself. The new pots are simple used as aesthetic visuals for her kitchens ambiance. One could only imagine what my mother; who should have her own slot on the Food Network thinks of my sisters 'kitchen'!
The food Network relaxes the mind (Unlike watching a movie, or a sitcom where you have to keep up with quick punch lines, or contemporary street savoy dialect) in addition a person can just enjoy the high caloric eats without the high caloric intake. The Food Network is great for multitasking, because the Network does not require ones undivided attention. I suppose these simple perks are why Americans love The Food Network.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Can I be a Writer?

After taking 12 college credits from the SEYS (secondary education youth services) department at Queens College I have realized my teaching career may be on hold for a while. As an english major I normally am asked "what are you going to do with an english major", as repetitive as the question has became over the years so did my answer. I would respond with the most confidence and say "I am going to become a teacher'. Now that my teaching career is on hold, when the question is asked (what are you going to do with an english major?) i will simply say "I do not know". Unfortunately that is the sad truth, I will be graduating soon with a degree in English and I do not know what kind of job is in my future. Writing has always been a passion of mine, since the age of 9 I have kept a journal of some sort, and this has continued throughout my early adult years. However I feel writers lack a certain confidence, well I lack a certain confidence... I always thought professional writers had to be nerdy, witty, and socially awkward. What are the qualifications of being able to call oneself a writer? Does one have to be published? Can you be a bad speller and still be considered a writer? Can you lack creativity? Can you be a romantic? Do you have to be cynical? All these questions come to mind when I think a about becoming a writer. I figured as a writer to begin the process I will write. I am going to write all the time, this is just day 1 of all the writing I will be doing, I will not get tired of writing, I will write everyday and I will be considered a professional writer who will make a remarkable living doing so!