Friday, February 29, 2008

Friday's Happy Hour Drink: Big Apple Martini

I'm going to go out tonight for one thing I've been working quite a lot of hours and I want to hang out with my friends. I kind of feel like going dancing but I don't know if I feel like going to a nightclub anyway we'll figure it out.

Here's Friday's Happy Hour drink from Cocktail Times:

Big Apple Martini


Ingredients:

- 2 oz P.I.N.K. Vodka
- 1 oz Sour Apple Schnapps
- 1/2oz pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz sour mix
- drizzle of Chambord
- Garnish: apple slice

Direction:

1. Combine vodka, sour apple schnapps, pineapple juice, and sour mix over chipped ice and shake well.
2. Strain into a well-chilled martini glass.
3. Drizzle Chambord through the center.
4. Garnish with a granny smith apple slice on the side of the glass.

Have a good Weekend!!!

Remember: Drink Responsibly and Don't Drink & Drive

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'Supernatural' Fights Lack of Promotion and Horrible Time Slot

"Supernatural" is one of my favorite TV shows but it seems to be lacking the promotion that it needs. A recent article that I read "Supernatural Keeps Fighting" by Mark Price, online at The Detroit Free Press that was published Wednesday, Feb 27th, details the fans enthusiam with the show and terrible Thursday time slot that it has. However, since this article was published Supernatural has been replaced by Reaper (which is also a good sci-fi genra show) at least for the time being until new episodes air in April.

In my opinion, I think Supernatural should have been left on Tuesday night instead of moving it to Thursday night following Smallville. Although it's "Supernatural's" third season the show has barely received any promotion especially when you compare it with the new show "Gossip Girl". From what I've noticed most established shows (meaning they have more than one season) such as "Smallville", "Everybody Hates Chris", "Supernatural", "Girlfriends" and "The Game" were given only a bare minimum of promotion while the new shows where almost over promoted. The exceptions seem to be "America's Next Top Model" and "One Tree Hill" who have received a good amount of promotion of their new seasons.

'Supernatural' Keeps Fighting
CW's Horror Show Has Rabid Fans, Lousy Thursday Time Slot
by Mark Price (bold mine)
The Detroit Free Press
McClatchy Newspapers


If there ever was a show begging to be canceled, it's one that shares a time slot with hits like "Lost" and "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation."

So, producer-writer Eric Kripke won't sugarcoat the fact that his series, "Supernatural," confronts a firing squad at 9p.m. each Thursday on the CW Network. He'd rather talk about the fact that the show - in its third season and apparently headed for a fourth - has becom the kind of sleeper cult hit that ususally doesn't get noticed until it's canceled.

"The first time I realized we were on the level with 'Star Trek' Trekkies was when I heard of a fan convention," Kripke says in a recent phone interview. "Fans were gathering in different towns, having meetings and seminars to discuss the inner psychology of the characters. It blew my mind that the show had gotten to that level."

It's a status 'Supernatural" couldn't help but earn, considering that it has a plot that reimagines "The Exoricist," with two gun-loving brothers from Kansas who drive from one possession to the next in a revved-up '67 Chevy Impala. The characters, Sam and Dean Winchester (played by Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles), have such a following that the show has a fan magazine, a series of comic books and paperback novels, a book of mythology, calendars, a role-playing game and official season guides. Fans have created dozens of Web sites devoted to the show, characters and the actors.

For now, Kripke says the greatest challenge the show faces is the same one that countless other cult hits face: poor ratings. "Supernatural" averages about 3 million viewers - one-fifth the number watching hits like "Losts". "I feel 'Supernatural' is a show on the precipice. With a few more pushes, it could cross over from cult hit to real hit," Kripke says. "The problem is, so few people know about it. We're on a smaller network that doesn't have a lot of money for promotion."

On the upside, he says the CW is so young that his 3 million viewers make the show one of the network's hits. That has him optimistic that a fourth season is likely. That, and the fact that "Supernatural" has become a success in the most unexpected places. "From what I'm told, we have as many, if not more, viewers in Russia," says Kripke, "and we are huge in Asian countries> Horror translates well in cultures that have rich spiritual folklore."


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Event: Workshop on Board Diversity

What:
Workshop on Board Diversity: Moving Beyond Tokenism: Making Board Diversity a Positive and Productive Experience. How do you diversify your board in a way that is meaningful and effective? Is it possible to get your current board members “on board” with this task?

Explore the answers to these questions and more as we discuss the challenges and opportunities involved when nonprofit organizations face issues related to board diversity.

The workshop will include practical strategies that nonprofit managers and board members can begin implementing immediately. Participants will learn from board members who have been down this path – and have successfully managed the process and achieved the desired outcomes.

When:
Thursday, March 6, 2008

Time:
9:00am - 4:00pm

Where:
North Park University
3225 W. Foster Ave
Chicago, IL 60625

Price:
$150 which covers lunch and materials

For more information, contact:
Tracey Starkovich
E-mail: tstarkovich@northpark.edu
Phone: 773-244-5799

Event Sponsored by The Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management

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Artsy Cool and Elegant Home Decor at Kenneth Wingard














From the owner of Kenneth Wingard comes exceptional ultramodern and sleek pieces including wall art, lamps,vases and more. This amazing home decor store features a unique item called the MO-BI-LE-O (see below 1st two pictures). It's a stand out piece that will showcase your walls. You can either shop online or at their two stores that are stocked with a wider selection of pieces.

KENNETH WINGARD
2127 Union Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
T: 415.345.1999


2319 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
T: 415.431.6900








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Wednesday, February 27, 2008

The Yummie Way to Slim Your Tummie

Yummie Tummie: The Cutting Edge Modern Day Shaper You Want to Wear

Heather Thomson, founder and designer, is thrilled to announce the launch of her new line, Yummie Tummie, the ultimate modern body-contouring, fashion shaper.

Yummie Tummie slims the midsection and camouflages visible lumps and bumps while remaining extremely comfortable and discreet. Thomson had been frustrated with the shaping products available on the market. They were uncomfortable, tight, and fabricated from constricting elastic that did not stay in place. After months of experimenting with various fabrics, Heather developed this groundbreaking design and the new modern shaper was born. Unlike most shapers that compress your bust and roll up, the Yummie Tummie’s cotton bust and hip panels appear to the outsider as a normal tank top; meanwhile the secret midsection panel is smoothing and eliminates pounds from your appearance. Yummie Tummie is the first shaper garment that is top oriented, designed to be worn each and everyday as a foundation or layering piece. The effects of Yummie Tummie are dramatic for the wearer, both physically and mentally.

Thomson said, “I had been struggling to lose those extra pounds I had gained after the birth of my son. I knew in my mind exactly what I needed, but I couldn’t find it anywhere out there. Being a fashion designer and having worked in this industry for so many years, I decided to make it myself. Yummie Tummie was born and it has become a staple in my wardrobe. It is so truly unique and different that I have filed for patents to protect my invention.”

Yummie Tummie will give you confidence and its design provides constant cover as you bend and move. We make it in all sizes because we have found that women of all sizes enjoy the added comfort and confidence whether their body is tight, big or small,” added Thomson.

The Yummie Tummie tank is available in sizes extra small through extra large and comes in both long and regular length variations in ten colors. The multi-purpose tank is great for layering, hitting the gym and all other everyday activities. The new Yummie Tummie long sleeve scoop neck and v-neck, short sleeve v-neck and scoop neck and the freedom T with a built in shelf bra will be available for purchase in April.

A veteran of the fashion industry for over 16 years, Heather Thomson served as the Co-Creative Director for Tina and Beyoncé Knowles’ House of Deréon before leaving to create Yummie Tummie. Prior to that she was the Creative Vice President for Jennifer Lopez’s Sweetface brand and Design Director at Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Sean John line.

For additional information, contact:
Reesa Toppel rtoppel@greatpress.com
Christina Kim ckim@greatpress.com

###

The Yummie Tummie was also seen Oprah and can be found at Shop Intution for $62.00.


(Photo Credit: shopintution.com)

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Stylish Yoga Finds To Keep You Motivated

With my busy schedule I try to make sure I find time to exercise. It's my time to clear my mind and relax. Right now my aim is to fit in a couple of yoga sessions a week. It's doesn't always workout that way. What keeps me motivated to continue this healthy lifestyle activity is finding new functional yet fashionable yoga clothes to buy every now and then.



















Bella Sport Top by Prana
Barefoot Yoga Co. (barefootyoga.com)
$46.00
















Cami Bra Top
Gaiam
$26.00



















Lola Sport Top Organic Collection by Prana
Barefoot Yoga Co.
$44.00

















OMgirl Practice Cami
Barefoot Yoga Co.
$38.00

















Yoga Pants
Fila
$65.00



















N.Y.C. Pants
Fit Couture (fitcouture.com)
$55.00
















OMgirl Organic Cotton Practice Pants
Barefoot Yoga Co.
$54.00



















Sweet Sweat Bamboo Pants
Barefoot Yoga Co.
$64.00













Hot Shorts
Fila
$40.00

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Send all Press Information to:

Please send all Inquires, Press Kits, Media Alerts, News Releases, etc. to: styleandfocuspr@yahoo.com

Areas of Concentration:

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Tuesday, February 26, 2008

My Weekend Accessories: Bangle Bracelets

Lately my signature weekend accessories are my Lee Angel Slim Bangles (25 gold plated bangle bracelets, $65.00, leeangel.com). They have such a delicate look and feel. I don't always wear all of them at the same time, I like to break them up and wear only a few. I like to wear them with my fitted t-shirts, evening tops and dresses. They're fun and have a '70's vibe to them. In a couple of weeks I might decide to wear something else but for now I like wearing them.


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mark's Super Soothing Lip Balm


Lip balm is one of my favorite beauty products to buy. I like to try different ones to see how they work and sometimes it's for the packaging. I ordered this mark Kiss Therapy Super Soothing Lip Balm in Sheer Peach ($4.00, meetmark.com) admittedly because I like the bright packaging and I wanted to see if it would keep my lips soft especially during this cold winter.

It has a nice consistency, good quality and did not feel sticky. The color looks soft and natural. Even on the coldest day this lip balm kept my lips from feeling dry. From a marketing stand point, I like how mark cosmetics are promoted as being fun, affordable and youthful.

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My Latest Obsession: Wide Leg Pants

Sorry I've been out but I was working on a fundraiser and an exhibit promotion for a local art gallery. I wanted to give my all my extra attention to making sure it went well.

Anyway, the latest items that I have been craving are wide leg pants. They flatter almost everyone. What I love is how comfortable they are plus give you a polished look whether at work, after work or just hanging out on the weekend. I've found some really great pairs at Banana Republic, J.Crew, Gap, JCPenney and delia's to name a few places.

The following pants are from Banana Republic for $58.00 each.


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Monday, February 18, 2008

Artist Laylah Ali at the Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts Celebrates Black History Month

What: Artist Laylah Ali in Lectures and Gallery Talk


When: Sunday, February 24, 2008 2:00pm

Where:
Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward avenue
Detroit, MI 48202
313.833.7900
dia.org

Massachusetts artist Laylah Ali has made a name for herself with her brightly colored, emotionally tense paintings. Learn firsthand what's behind her disturbingly ambiguous subject matter rendered in a style influenced by contemporary animation.

Image Caption: Laylah Ali, Untitled, 2005. Image courtesy of 303 Gallery, New York, NY.

Programs are made possible with support from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the City of Detroit.

Sponsored by MACY'S

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My Life: Just on my mind 3

* I watched the NBA All-Star game last night I thought the half time show was great because it incorporated the spirit of New Orleans. The game was cool, I was rooting for the East and I'm glad that they won.

* Over the weekend I went to an estate sell with my mother and she purchased 16 old and classic books for only $5.00. If you get a chance attend one you never know what you might find. I looked but did not see any antique teapots.

* I received an e-mail asking me What's going to be hot for spring? What's hot is pretty much whatever you like but colors are always in and this year the color yellow seems to be quite popular. As for accessories, I noticed less = more and simple delicate pieces are going to worn. For make-up, soft pinks and peaches paired with fuller but neat eye brows.

* I don't know if you've noticed but there seem to be less ads and commercials using "sex" to sell. I remember reading a study that showed that most people don't even realize what product is being promoted. The formula doesn't seem to have the impact it once had. Constantly bombarding the potential customer with sexy ads just pushes the product right out of their mind.

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Friday, February 15, 2008

Latest Hairspiration: Keira Knightley

Kiera Knightley has two hair inspiring styles the first is from the Elle Style Awards where she picked up an award for Best Actress. She looked amazing with this simple yet sophisticated soft updo. What's perfect about this style is it draws all the attention to her face, making her the center of attention.



















Keira's second hairspiration was at the Bafta Awards. She wore soft waves that gave her that casual yet glamorous look. She is known for her casual elegant style.


















(Photo Credit: All pictures from contactmusic.com)

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Style and Focus News Bites

** Where have all the black models gone? a statement that has been echoed over the past couple of years in the fashion industry. Model and co-host of Bravo's "Make Me a Super Model", Tyson Beckford recently spoke about it to the Associated Press.

In the article "Fashion Week Hits Diversity Problem" some in the fashion industry are aiming to make a change, includes: Tracey Reese, Sean "Diddy" Combs and Diane von Furstenberg to name a few. Diane von Furstenberg is the current President of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, she reportedly has "sent a memo to its members encouraging them to create fashion shows 'that are truly multicultural' " (Associated Press).

** The New York Times will cut 100 newsroom jobs this year. The cuts will be achieved “by not filling jobs that go vacant, by offering buyouts, and if necessary by layoffs,” according to the executive editor, Bill Keller (The New York Times).

** Nike Inc. Introduces Their New "green" Air Jordan. The Air Jordan XX3 is part of Nike's "Considered" program -- a broad plan to reduce greenhouse gases and trim factory inefficiency by making cleaner, more sustainable designs in Nike's own labs. These shoes are made with less chemical-based glues and the outsoles are made of recycled material (Wall Street Journal).

** Fans of the CW Network series "Girlfriends" were outraged that the eight-year-old series did not have a proper finale episode following the network quietly cancelling the long running series. Cast members were notified by telephone by creator Mara Brock Akil that the network had decided to end the show.

** Jessica Simpson is in talks with CMT to star in a special chronicling her life as she records her upcoming country album (Us Magazine).

** CBS has renewed 11 of its series for the 2008-2009 season. The 11 shows are: Cold Case," "Criminal Minds," "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," "CSI: Miami," "CSI: NY," "Ghost Whisperer," "NCIS," "Numb3rs," "Two and a Half Men," "Without a Trace" and "The Big Bang Theory" (CBS).

** The Detroit Kennel Club will celebrate a milestone when its 100th and 101st shows open at Cobo Center on March 1st & 2nd. The annual Celebration of Dogs, proudly presented by Purina, allows visitors up-close and personal time with breeders, owners, handlers and over 2,500 canines from the 169 breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Tickets: $12 for adults and $8 for children (under 12) and senior citizens (60 and over). Family packs (2 adults, 3 children) are also on sale for $35. Tickets will be sold separately for each show and are good only for that day's show. Group rates are available by calling (248)540-5206.

Show hours: Dogs will be on display to the public and demonstrations will run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Best in Show will go into the ring approximately 6:00 PM each day. Tickets are available at the door. For more information call 248-DKC-SHOW [(248) 352-7469], or online at http://www.detroitkennelclub.com (Press Release).

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Thursday, February 14, 2008

Dinner for Two recipes from Allrecipes.com


(Photo Credit: canada.com)

Are you bypassing your usual celebration at your favorite restaurant to instead plan a romantic Valentine's meal at home? Well hopefully you have everything planned and ready to go. But just in case you've waited until the last minute, Allrecipes.com has come to your rescue, they have designed an enticing menu for their "Five Valentine's Day Dinners for Two" which allows you to pick and choose which meal you would like to prepare.

The five dinners you can choose from are: Surf and Turf Temptation, Mediterranean Passion, Love Birds, Lust for Lobster and Garden of Eden. Each meal includes a delectable dessert and wine reccomendations that will tie the whole meal together ensuring you have a captivating evening.

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Happy Valentine's Day


I want to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day. No matter if you're in a relationship or single hopefully the day will be full of happiness, romance and fun.

If you're single this is probably an interesting time to be single. Besides, the nightclubs and bars having their Valentine's promo parties other venues are getting into creative promotions for instance a friend of mine who is the promotions manager at an upscale gym has put together special singles yoga classes for the evening. Last year, she organized a singles tennis night so members could play tennis as well as meet other sporty competive singles such as themselves.

As for single's who are interested in a little culture, museums and theatres have various special events from champagne receptions to dinner and a movie. Check your local museum or theatres for possible events.

Whatever your plans are for tonight, have fun and enjoy this heartfelt day.

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