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Friday, July 30, 2010

What's going on this weekend?

Hey party people! It's a pretty packed weekend of events. There's a pretty cool show Friday at Eighty-Five. You'll see guitarist Richard Alan Smith and Kevin Spears, who's known for his skills on the kalimba, an African instrument. Details here.

Feeling altruistic? Visit a Saturday fundraiser for local body painter Dewayne Flowers. Added bonus: It's at Hooters. The event is noon-3 p.m. It includes a car wash and face painting. Details here.

Also, DJ Roonie G celebrates his birthday Friday and Saturday at Mix Ultra Lounge, 1107 Broadway. Cover is $5 and doors open at 9 p.m.

Some other highlights:

FRIDAY

SoHo Bar & Grill: Say You Swear, Wake Up Evil, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

Daileys: Lazy Swamis, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Spicoli’s: DJ music, 8:30 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.

Shanty Shack: Mindblender, 7-11 p.m. $5. 706-507-3418.

Flip Flops: Whisky Bent, 9 p.m. $5.

The Loft: Tim Wilson comedy show, 7 p.m. $10. Allgood, 9 p.m. $10. Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness, 11 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends with Lou Vandora, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

VFW Post 5228: DJ music, 9 p.m. free. 334-297-6493.

SATURDAY

SoHo Bar & Grill: SidAerial, SAMROC and GRD, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

The Loft: Tim Wilson comedy show, 7 p.m. $10. T3IO, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Spicoli’s: Surgestone, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.

Shanty Shack: Mindblender, 7-11 p.m. $5. 706-507-3418.

Flip Flops: Whisky Bent, 9 p.m. $5.

Daileys: Lazy Swamis, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends with Lou Vandora, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

VFW Post 5228: Donnie Thomas and band, 9 p.m. $5. 334-297-6493.

Facebook is romantic?

You had me at first poke.

Sound silly? Yeah, I agree. Which is why I did a double-take after seeing The Frisky's collection of most romantic Facebook love stories.

Huh? Facebook can be romantic?

I thought it was just for stalking your exes and writing cryptic, overly emotional status updates after fighting with your boyfriend.

Then again, we have to remember that Facebook -- like the Internet as a whole -- has potential to reunite first crushes and long lost loves.

BUT...it's hard to associate romance with a place that's also home to Mafia Wars.

Weigh in: Is Facebook ever romantic?

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Best. Video. Ever.



Check out our newest "Ledger Lounge" show, where you'll learn about everything from "Inception" to "The Bachelorette." Added bonus: I dance.

What's going on tonight?

Your No. 1 Thursday event? The California Bad Boyz invade the Shanty Shack (4475 Warm Springs Road). The male burlesque show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are $5 until 3 p.m. today. After that, they're $10.

Click here to read my interview with one of the California Bad Boyz.

Some other nightlife options:

SoHo Bar & Grill: Almost Kings, 10 p.m. free. 706-568-3316.

Flip Flops: Chris Collins, 9 p.m. free.

Spicoli’s: Moonshine Takeover, 9 p.m. free. 705-221-5252.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

I wanna start a fight

Tired of having the same fight with your significant other?

The Wall Street Journal offers an interesting conflict resolution technique that relies on a "couple's meeting."

The process?

Set a time limit of 15 minutes and flip a coin to see who speaks first. Then, the first person explains his/her side in two or three statements. The other partner listens and repeats what he/she heard.

You do this about two more times and then reverse roles.

Good idea, right?

But as the WSJ accurately notes, it's hard to remember these techniques when you're in the heat of an argument.

I wish I could offer insight on this topic, but my inherent perfection makes me immune to relationship fights.

Haha. Just kidding.

I usually prefer to end a fight with this unselfish insight: "I'm right and you're wrong."

Baby Drowns During Baptism

A priest in Moldova is being accused of drowning a 6-week-old baby during his baptism. *The video is in another language but has subtitles, if the subtitles does not show up here is the link to the video on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtY2BFs4BLc.

Baby Drowns During Baptism

A priest in Moldova is being accused of drowning a 6-week-old baby during his baptism. *The video is in another language but has subtitles.

Ne-Yo Talks about His Champagne Life

Ne-Yo talks about his new videos "Champagne Life" and "Beautiful Monster", upcoming album Libra Scale, the baby he has on the way, and rumors that he is engaged.

The Discussion on Race...Continues

Michael Eric Dyson and others discuss race in America.

Michael Moore Speaks On Obama

Michael Moore wants President to keep to all the promises he made during the election.

A Case of Mistaken Identity

A trip from Disneyland turned tragic when five friends were involved in a car accident after their SUV blew a tire. The accident caused one fatality and originally the family of Abby Guerra, 19, was told that she had died in the accident when it actually was Marlena Cantu, 21, who had died.

Julianne Hough and Ryan Seacrest

Julianne Hough recently dismissed questions about a possible romantic relationship with Ryan Seacrest by joking about having his baby.

Good diversion tactic? Maybe. Good for your relationship? Maybe not.

When is it OK to joke about having your partner's baby without worrying about scaring him or her off?

Make these jokes too early in a relationship and you might appear marriage-obsessed -- even if you were just kidding.

My advice: Avoid all marriage and baby jokes until you've passed the one-year mark, unless these jokes are told in a setting where an abundance of hunch punch ensures neither of you will remember the deeper undertones the next morning.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Scruffy Murphy's upstairs

Downtown Columbus hot spot Scruffy Murphy's, 1037 Broadway, recently posted an interesting item on Facebook:

Ok, folks, the Project: "The Shamrock Lounge" has begun.......
Upstairs ScruffyMurphys ......,,
Projected opening..... Near end of this year...
Will post progress on website: scruffymurphyspub.com


An upper level of Scruffy Murphy's? Yes, please!

I already love the upstairs bathrooms. An upstairs lounge might make Scruffy's even more popular. I enjoy sitting on the patio, but sometimes the inside atmosphere gets way too crowded.

Which is good for business, but not that great if you're a claustrophobic partier.

Weigh in: Which other local hot spots need more room?

Separate beds

Is sleeping in separate beds a sign of a broken marriage, or just plain common sense?

Here, the NY Times discusses married couples who sleep separately. It cites a survey suggesting one in four American couples sleep in separate bedrooms or beds.

The reasons? Everything from sleep disorders to the apparent root of all evil: technology.

The writer isn't too thrilled about the separate beds movement. An excerpt:

In an age when partners no longer eat together, exercise together or pray together, sleeping together may be the last bastion of togetherness in American relationships. If pillow talk dies, can throwing in the towel be far behind?

I don't think this is a battle worth fighting.

It's one thing to compromise on life outlooks or money issues.

But in the grand scheme of things, where you sleep is really not that big of an issue -- well, assuming you're not sleeping in somebody else's bed.

Thoughts?

Babysitter Molests 3 Year Old

A 20 year old Houston womam is charged for molesting a 3 year old boy that she use to baby sit.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Secrets and lies

How much do you discuss your significant other with your friends?

A variety of things prompted this discussion. One: I recently read a blogger's claim that she never talks badly about her husband around friends.

Two: Here, a relationship coach asserts that bad-mouthing your partner can kill your marriage.

Finally: I enjoyed this Elle article, which asks if it's always a betrayal to talk about your husband with another man.

I've been in situations where you get around a certain group of friends and always end up complaining about the same relationship issues. You can be completely in love going into a girls' night and hate your relationship when you get home.

I respect people who view their relationship as something sacred, and never publicly say negative things about their partner because of that.

But at the same time, those people also risk exuding a false sense of perfection.

Their friends speculate worst-case scenarios about their romantic imperfections behind their backs.

So sometimes, when you consider the alternative, bad-mouthing isn't that bad after all.

Woman Who Bought Lebron James' Chain at Garage Sale May Face Charges

Vaneisha Robinson, the girl who was sold one of Lebron James' chains at a garage sell, good luck just turned bad because she no longer has the chain and is being investigated for being sold stolen property. Watch the video above to learn more about the situation.

Would You Like Your Car to Tweet for You?

2011 Ford Fiesta to have option to allow car to stay connected to the internet and send out Tweets, which would possibly stop drivers from texting, tweeting, etc. while driving.

The results are in. When it comes to Kelly Rowalnd, Matthew Knowles you...

For years it has been rumored that Kelly Rowland was Matthew Knowles' other child, and during a visit to 100.3 The Beat Kelly let the truth be known.

The Younger Generation Talks Race

For years race has always been a common topic, but usually when discussed the younger generation's opinions are left out. Today on CNN some members of the younger generations stated their views on race and if racism is still a problem.

Is it too good to be true??? Lauryn Hill is making music again...

Recently Lauryn Hill has been saying that she plans to make a comeback and today a unheard song "Repercussions" leaked, so does this mean that the wait is finally over? Maybe Lauryn heard about Irv Gotti comparing her to Nicki Minaj and figured she had to prove him wrong.

Jersey Shore and Snooki

Feeling drowsy on Monday? How about a little fist pump action?

The NY Times has an interesting profile of Snooki from MTV's "Jersey Shore." Well, perhaps "interesting" isn't the best descriptive adjective.

A Jezebel writer calls it possibly the cruelest profile she's seen in the Times' Style section "in quite some time." Why? Consider passages like this:

But trying to hold a conversation with Snooki is a little like getting down on your hands and knees with a child. You have to come down to her level, and sometimes you almost think you need to bribe her with a piece of candy to coax her to be more responsive. She is really only responsive to her own immediate needs and desires. She is not self-centered, but she is used to acting out and getting away with it.

The writer also mentions how Snooki has only read two books in her life: "Twilight" and "Dear John."

"Jersey Shore" doesn't top my hierarchy of MTV obsessions -- it's not "Teen Mom," after all -- but I don't hate it entirely.

And Snooki? Sure, she's one of the many people in pop culture whose celebrity status can't be attributed to an enviable skill or groundbreaking performance.

But I remember a scene from last season's "Jersey Shore" finale, when Snooki wandered the boardwalk aimlessly in search of a date and ultimately started a dance party outside by herself.

I remember the moment so well because it added a basic humanness to somebody often reduced to a caricature. Even with her exaggerated pouf and revealing clothes, she wasn't immune to the awkward dating dance that plagues the rest of us.

Or something like that.

Friday, July 23, 2010

What's going on this weekend?

Hey party people! Don't forget about Chuck Negron's Saturday concert at the Phenix City Amphitheater. Gates open at 7 p.m. and show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10, free for guests 12 and younger. No coolers, but alcohol will be sold.

Here are some other highlights:

FRIDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

Eighty-Five: Modoc and Moonlight Bride, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.

Daileys: Ophir Drive, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Flip Flops: Old Soul, 9 p.m. $5.

Spicoli’s: DJ music, 8:30 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.

Belloo’s: The Relics, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Broken Man, The Giving End, Drive Down Holly, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness, 9;30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

VFW Post 5228: DJ music, 9 p.m. free. 334-297-6493.

Shanty Shack: Jason Coley, 7-11 p.m. $5. 706-507-3418.

SATURDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

Eighty-Five: Davin McCoy, Cabin Fever, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.

Daileys: Seven Zero Sixx, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Flip Flops: T3IO, 9 p.m. $5.

Spicoli’s: Battle Cry, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Strange Planet, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

Belloo’s: The Relics, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

VFW Post 5228: Donnie Thomas and band, 9 p.m. $5. 334-297-6493.

The Loft: Marshall Ruffin, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Shanty Shack: Jason Coley, 7-11 p.m. $5. 706-507-3418.

Ice cream and dating

Happy Friday! This week's nightlife column focuses on the challenges of ordering dessert on a first date. Some people say it's a "must," others say it's a recipe for disaster.

Today is Vanilla Ice Cream Day -- well, at least if you're willing to believe a website whose authors could "not find the creator, or the origin of this day."

Good enough for me.

Some daters use dessert choice as litmus test for how long a relationship will last. (Hmm. I guess choice in pie is a notch above salad matchmaking.)

Anyway, I can't help wondering: Is it possible to not pass judgment on a date who always gets vanilla ice cream?

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Ranch dressing, please

Check out this news about a website that matches people based on salad preferences.

So yes, an affinity for croutons can make you desirable.

Apparently there's some science behind it. The aforementioned story cites research suggesting that cheese preferences -- sliced, cubed, shredded, etc. -- can indicate personality traits.

Would I try the salad matchmaking method?

Maybe. But in focusing on little similarities -- say, shared taste in salad dressing -- we often lose sight of the bigger, more important things that unite couples.

In my younger days, I once met a guy and assumed we were soul-mates.

Why? Well, we had the same favorite book, beer, pizza toppings, vacation spot and TV show.

Sure, there were a ton of similarities. But in retrospect, those similarities covered petty things. I was so smitten with those things that I didn't take time to ask about values, life outlook or goals.

You know, the things that really matter.

Note: I still think any guy who likes blue cheese dressing is pretty sexy.

Online dating gone wild

The NY Times discusses a possible new model for Internet dating: websites that use brief real-life encounters to spur an online relationship.

How does it work?

Users get cards to hand people they meet while on the town. Don't want to start a full-fledged conversation with that hot guy drinking coffee? Give him a card saying you'd like to go on a date, then slyly slip out of the room.

If he likes you, he'll send you a message in your online dating mailbox.

Some people still believe that if you spend too long meeting people online, you'll end up entirely devoid of all face-to-face social skills.

The aforementioned model seems like an interesting way to erase some of the stigma still surrounding online dating.

However, I'm not sure if the pre-printed cards do much to build social skills.

It almost seems like a return the seventh-grade meet market, when you'd get friends to hand ambiguous written messages to the object of your affection.

OK, I guess that was actually pretty fun.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

How to break up with someone

One of the biggest challenges of being a relationship columnist is deciding how much of your personal life to disclose.

You can't explain all your anecdotes through abstract examples.

But at the same time, if you're in a relationship and want to write about it, you have to remember your partner didn't sign up to be a case study.

After writing a dating column for four years -- and being in a serious relationship for three and a half years -- I think I've found a comfortable balance between complete avoidance and full disclosure.

I had a period when I didn't mention my relationship in print at all. I couldn't give up being hollered at downtown. (Just kidding, honey!)

Actually, the real reason I didn't want to mention my relationship was because I didn't know how I'd handle the fallout if we broke up.

Here, one reader discusses the pain the she felt after her favorite married writers divorced.

The post addresses one of my biggest concerns: inadvertently holding myself up as a relationship expert, and then failing in my own attempts at romance.

Yet I guess the point of being a writer isn't to flawlessly exist above your readers, but rather to let your insecurities forge a closeness with the rest of the world.

Right?

Oil wrestling tonight!

Yes, you read the headline correctly.

The Uptown Tap, 1024 Broadway, hosts baby oil wrestling tonight. Action starts at 9 p.m. If you want to participate, call 706-653-8277.

Note: When I first read the event invitation on Facebook, I interpreted it to mean that babies would be wrestling in oil.

Wow, maybe I do need to get out more.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

12. DZIĘKI TOSI PRZETRWAM WSZYSTKO





11. KOCHAM I BARDZO TĘSKNIĘ

Wyjechała bliska mi osoba. Musiała wyjechać. Nawet pisać mi się nie chce, bo to boli. Ale poczekam.

Chelsea Clinton wedding

This woman claims Chelsea Clinton is ruining her wedding.

The reason? She's getting married near Clinton's reported wedding site, and she worries security will be so tight that her guests will have trouble getting from the ceremony to the reception.

Granted, the situation could be worse. After all, the competing bride's mother conveniently used it as an opportunity to invite the Clintons to her daughter's wedding.

But readers' comments about the article got me thinking: What does it really take to "ruin" a wedding?

It seems like a slightly dramatic term, especially since most couples end their big night saying that despite minor glitches, they wouldn't change a thing.

So tell me: Is a wedding only really "ruined" when somebody doesn't show up?

(Get more wedding-related news on my colleague Katie's blog.)

Speed dating is cool?

Here's an interesting Associated Press article about efforts to re-brand speed dating and make it a hipster-friendly event.

Speed dating is a funny thing.

I frequently hear from people requesting more speed dating events in Columbus. But when those events actually happen, they usually have a hard time drawing participants.

I think many Columbus-area daters are leery of speed dating because we live in a relatively small town. The people who will show up at a speed dating event are likely the same people you've already met, or at least spotted, on the nightlife scene.

However, the aforementioned article -- set in places like New York -- suggests a broader reluctance toward speed dating that isn't confined to the perils of small-town life.

Maybe the thought of a five-minute instant connection is good in theory, but bad in practice.

Maybe we prefer the comfort of a one-on-one blind date, where our social blunders and insecurities aren't exacerbated by a stopwatch's interference.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Where Did The Fugees Go Anyway

Where Did The Fugees Go Anyway

Chill Yogurt Cafe


I recently discovered a little local piece of heaven, and I'm not talking about the unidentifiable, maggot-ridden surprise a stranger left in my trash can last week.

Let me introduce you to the world of Chill, the frozen yogurt cafe that recently opened in Columbus Park Crossing near Smoothie King and the former Circuit City. There's also an Auburn location.

Chill is essentially the best place in the world.

It's similar to big city fro-yo places like Pinkberry. At Chill, you choose from a wall of exotic flavors (featured above), layer your selection with toppings and pay by the ounce. And yes, Dawn, non-dairy selections are available -- so don't even think about skipping out.



Here are some of the toppings at Chill. There's also some rows of fresh fruit. I love Chill so much that I went twice over the weekend.

Before you call me a heifer, I'll note my second trip was due to the fact that I forgot my camera the first time. OK, you caught me: I probably would have returned either way.



On both visits, I opted for pomegranate energy boost yogurt. It kind of marked the marriage between my two favorite things: dessert and Red Bull.

My toppings of choice? Kiwi, strawberry, dark chocolate chips and miniature vanilla wafers. Jealous?

Though references to chocolate might suggest otherwise, I'm still training for a half-marathon. I'll post an update on my progress soon.

Should Toddlers Get Weave???

On a recent episode of TLC'S "Toddlers and Tiaras" a three year old got weave put in her hair for a pageant, but is that too young?

Black Love, Black Relationships and Facebook

Black Love, Black Relationships and Facebook

Barbies tackle Twilight, True Blood



Hope this video adds some necessary "oomph" to your Monday. Learn more about both shows on Katie's pop culture blog.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Philadelphia Police Officers Arrested for Trying to Rob Drug Dealers

Three police officers in Philly were arrested for trying to rob a drug dealer and then resale the drugs.

What's going on this weekend?

Hey party people! The Denim & Diamonds concert, which features headliner Blake Shelton, comes to the Columbus Civic Center Saturday night. It's a benefit for Columbus Hospice and Columbus Hospice of Alabama. Get details here.

You can also try these weekend highlights:

FRIDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and The Bizness, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Shanty Shack: Haywire, 7-11 p.m. $5. 706-507-3418.

Flip Flops: Jasper Drive, 9 p.m. $5.

Mix Ultra Lounge: DJ Roonie G with DJ Brayks, 9 p.m. E-mail info@mixultralounge.net to get on guest list before 11:30 p.m.

Spicoli’s: Samroc & GRD, 10:30 p.m. $5 cover starts at 9 p.m. 706-221-5252.

Eighty-Five: Misfortune 500, The Gold Party, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Losing Adelaide, BPM, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

VFW Post 5228: DJ music, 9 p.m. free. 334-297-6493.

Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends with Rick Champion, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

SATURDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Loft: Tyler Reeve, 9 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Eighty-Five: Capibara, 10 p.m. $5. 706-324-1500.

Mix Ultra Lounge: DJ Roonie G with DJ Brayks, 9 p.m. E-mail info@mixultralounge.net to get on guest list before 11:30 p.m.

Spicoli’s: Pistoltown, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.

Flip Flops: Chris Collins, 9 p.m. $5.

Shanty Shack: Haywire, 7-11 p.m. $5. 706-507-3418.

VFW Post 5228: Donnie Thomas and band, 9 p.m. $5. 334-297-6493.

SoHo Bar & Grill: The Bastard Suns, So It Goes, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

Belloo’s: Claiborne & Friends with Rick Champion, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

Ne-Yo's Video for "Beautiful Monster"

Ne-yo's music video for his new song "Beautiful Monster" that will be on his upcoming album Libra Scale.

Woman with the World's Biggest (Fake) Boobs is Fighting for her Life

Now this is a story that you do not hear about everyday! For the past few years Shelya Hershey had been trying to get the largest breast implants in the world, and recently she finally got her wish but it may cost her a lot... her life.

Everybody say "aww"

There's nothing like a sappy love story to get you through Friday afternoon.

Today's item comes from the Chicago Sun-Times, which tells the story of a couple so inseparable that they died within hours of each other.

The article reminded me of my grandparents, who also lived in Chicago.

They didn't die within hours of each other, but I remember having the sense that my grandpa lost his will to live after my grandma passed away.

Who knows? Maybe I was just an overly romantic teenager creating things in my mind.

Yet I think my grandpa would have lived a lot longer had my grandma still been around. They died about a year and a half apart.

Sometimes I'm overly critical of couples who seem to spend every waking hour together.

But I hope I enter the end of life with bonds so strong that I must define my existence within the context of other people.

LeBron's House Has a Casino, Starbucks In it?

LeBron James talks about his house in Cleveland, which has a casino and starbucks.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Dr. Boyce Show -- Sherri Shepherd Stops by for a Conversation

Dr. Boyce's AOL Show -- Sherri Shepherd Stops by for a Conversation

Hot or Not?: Ne-yo's Video for Champagne Life

Ne-yo just released the video for his single "Champagne Life" that will be on his upcoming album Libra Scale, so what do you think?

Saying "I do" in Walmart

USA Today has an interesting article about retail weddings -- that is, couples getting married in restaurants or stores. It cites venues ranging from Taco Bell to T.J. Maxx.

Retail weddings stem from factors like a desire to be unique and save money.

If I chose to have a retail wedding, the hardest part would be deciding my rationale for picking the venue.

Walmart is the store I visit most often, but would I tie the knot there? No.

My favorite places to browse are Ulta and Forever 21. However, something tells me there aren't a lot of guys jumping at the chance to say "I do" while standing beside leggings and glittery lip gloss.

Just when I'm out of ideas, it hits me: Chipotle. Hands down, this is my favorite restaurant in the world. Usually I can convince anyone I date to like it, too.

Plus, the nearest location is in Atlanta. Destination wedding! Holla!

(Bride-to-be Katie Holland is taking a slightly more traditional approach to her wedding. Learn more on her blog.)

What's going on tonight?

Hey party people! Here are some Thursday highlights:

Spicoli's: Stereomonster, 10 p.m. free. 706-221-5252.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Joey Allcorn, 10 p.m. free. 706-568-3316.

Fountain City Coffee: Open mike, 8 p.m. free. 706-494-6659.

Mix Ultra Lounge: Service Industry Night featuring Roonie G and Alvin D, 9 p.m. free.
706-221-2112.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

I'm running a half-marathon

Ah, the lovely 5K "before" photo. I've deleted all images showcasing my sexy post-race sweatbath.


Through a serendipitous chain of events that involved a failed shoe-shopping trip and a vacant eight inches in our To Do section, I recently decided to run a half-marathon.

Well, train to run a half-marathon.

Don't laugh. Please.

Actually, I'm really excited about the concept. I'm starting my training this weekend for the Soldier Marathon & Half-Marathon, held at the National Infantry Museum on Nov. 13.

I'm basing my training regimen primarily on guides I've found online, namely this one. But if you have any suggestions, please drop me a note in the comments section.

I'll chronicle my journey with weekly updates on this blog.

A quick recap of my athletic abilities: I had a birth defect that required me to wear a special brace on my legs when I was really young. I came out of the situation freakishly flexible, but not exactly athletically inclined.

My memories of elementary school PE classes are terrible. A teacher once pulled me out of an Ultimate Frisbee game because he said I looked as if I feared for my life.

Everything changed in high school, when a PE teacher taught me proper techniques for running and made me do a 5K by the end of the semester. I've been running fairly regularly ever since.

With luck, the half-marathon journey will boost my determination, energy and focus.

If not, I'll at least have a cute new medallion to admire.

The Hills finale crushes my soul

It's been a rough Wednesday.

Not only do I have to process the fact that "The Hills" is over, but I also have to cope with a shocking suggestion that the entire series might have been scripted.

Bring me a therapist ASAP.

I guess it's best to look on the bright side of things. Regardless of the show's definition of "reality," it taught me a few things. Seriously.

"The Hills" reinforced an important lesson for women by emphasizing that not every friendship needs to be saved.

No matter what you think about the show, that concept is somewhat refreshing.

As women, we're often trapped into thinking that every female friendship needs to reach "Sex and the City" proportions. In reality, the "SATC" image of friendship is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve.

People grow apart. Work, jealousy and annoying boys get in the way. Before you know it, a shared round of cosmos marks social torture, rather than a welcome bonding session.

Scripted or not, "The Hills" painted a much more realistic picture of many female friendships -- fleeting, rather than fairytale-inspired.

Thoughts?

Hot or Not?: Trey Songz ft. Nicki Minaj "Bottoms Up"

Are you feeling Trey Songz new joint featuring Nicki Minaj "Bottoms Up"?

Sarah Palin's Daughter Bristol Secretly Gets Engaged

I am sure Sarah Palin is not too happy about her 19 year old daughter Bristol getting engaged to her baby's father Levi Johnston, considering all the trash talking that he has done about the Palin family. As if this is not bad enough Bristol did not even tell her mom, I guess she found out the same way I did...on the internet.

Fan Gets Stomped for Walking on Stage During a 50 Cent Concert

Well I guess it is official that the "G" in G-Unit stands for gangsta, because during 50 Cent's concert last Friday in Salvador, Brazil a fan got stomped like a man in the streets by the G-Unit crew. Fast forward to the 1:40 mark to see what went down.

Wendy Williams Is Not Happy about Ochocinco's New Show

Chad Ochocinco visisted Wendy Williams show the other day and Wendy let it be known that she is not happy with the lack of Black Women on the show.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Proposal video of the day



(via Deadspin)

Bob Saget Night

Ready to pay homage to "Full House" character Danny Tanner?

Broadway hot spot Flip Flops on Aug. 21 will host Bob Saget Night -- a party dedicated entirely to the awesomeness that is Bob Saget.

Trust me, I'm excited, too.

The party is an extension of one local group's quest to drink a beer with Bob Saget. The goal is similar to the Taylor Swift thing that recently happened in Auburn -- but, um, kind of different at the same time.

Bob Saget Night already has a website, which you can access here.

The Aug. 21 party lineup will include Bob Saget tribute T-shirts (make your own), a Bob Saget cocktail and more.

Who's in?

Sherri Sheperd and D.L. Hughley Blame the Spread of HIV on Downlow Brothers

On a recent episode of "The View" Sherri Sheperd and D.L. Hughley talked about how difficult it is for gay black males to come out in the Black community.

Usher's There Goes My Baby Video

Hands down this song has got to be my favorite song on the CD so I am happy that he is releasing a video for the song, but I can't help but wonder what took him so long?

Audio of the Second Psychotic Conversation with Mel Gibson and Girlfriend

The audio of the second threatening telephone conversation that Mel Gibson had with his girlfriend/mother of his child, Oksana Grigorieva.

Audio of Mel Gibson Telling His Girlfriend She Will Get "Raped by a Pack of Niggers"

Audio of Mel Gibson telling his girlfriend that if she keeps dressing so sluty she will get "raped by a pack of niggers".

Monday, July 12, 2010

Rev. Jesse Jackson Goes in on Cavs Owner

Reverand Jesse Jackson gives his opinion of Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert and his comments about Lebron James' decision to leave Cleveland.

Ochocinco Chats It up About His New Reality Show

Cincinnati Bengals player Chad Ochocinco is looking for love and what better place for him to find it than on VH1? Ochocinco's reality show "The Ultimate Catch" premiered last night on VH1 and this is his recent interview that he did with CNN about the show.

Kandi Burruss and Yung Joc Talk About Black Money

Kandi Burruss and Yung Joc give their opinions of why they think so many black entertainers end up broke.

Haircuts and depression

The Detroit Free Press has an interesting article about hairdressers dispensing relationship advice.

It's a common scenario: You sit down for a cut and highlights, and end up telling your stylist every detail of your love life.

Am I the only one who hates the setup?

I have friends who go to the salon savoring the thought of dishing about romance and relationships for an hour. The image makes me shudder.

It's nothing about my particular romantic situation. I've talked to stylists while single, in between relationships and while in a serious relationship.

Without fail, I leave the salon contemplating my romantic destiny, rather than admiring my new look.

Between my tangled tresses and incessant engagement inquiries, the salon therapy session is just too much to handle.

Anyone else agree?

Venus Talks Business

Venus Williams discusses her new book and "Venus Williams" the brand.

Lebrons Supposed Father's HLN Interview

Although Leicester Bryce Stovell has already taken a DNA test for Lebron James he feels that the test was tampered with.

Closing time

College Candy offers a photo gallery of too-drunk partiers. The post is accurately labeled "88 signs it's time to leave the bar."

Filled with face drawing and snow sleeping, it's something I would have laughed at in college -- maybe even four years ago. We would likely stare at the gallery and match its images with tales of our own irresponsibility.

But at 28, I viewed the apparent Passed Out Hall of Fame only as, well, a little sad.

Lots of people remember when they first realized they were in the middle of The Change -- that is, a keener awareness that the drunken antics that entertained you for years aren't really that entertaining after all.

The process often starts while watching a friend's dance floor meltdown. Or looking at your own mascara-lined, hangover-drained face in the morning after mirror.

It doesn't mean you'll entirely abstain from alcohol. You do, however, suddenly acquire a lower tolerance for things like beer funnels, 3 a.m. Ramen and sweet and sour mix.

To quote Blink 182's wisdom, "I guess this is growing up."

Friday, July 9, 2010

Son of Black NFL Coach Arrested for Child Porn Possession


Jeremy Green, son of former NFL coach Dennis Green, has been arrested in Connecticut on a charge related to child pornography. Jeremy Green is also an ESPN analyst. He was picked up Thursday around 5 p.m. in a Southington hotel. He is charged with possession of child pornography, possession of narcotics and possession of drug paraphernalia.
He is being held on $750,000 bond and police are not releasing details of the warrant, which is now sealed. He has worked with ESPN since 2005.
Jeremy's father, Dennis Green, was one of the most successful African American coaches in the history of the NFL. His 1998 run with the Minnesota Vikings led to a 15-1 record for the team, and the most points scored by any NFL team during any one season. The team made it to the NFC Championship game that year, led by Randy Moss and other great players the team had that year.

Click to read.




Dr. Boyce: Why Would the Cavs Owner Call LeBron a Coward?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins

The world stopped spinning for just a few minutes last night, as it was announced that LeBron James will now become a member of the Miami Heat. The move didn't surprise hardly anyone, but everyone seemed to keep hope that perhaps he might choose their city. I am sure James lost sleep over this move, as the humble athlete seems like the kind of guy who remains very loyal to his friends. The problem is that some seem to mistake his kindness for weakness.
In an open letter about the signing, Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert calls LeBron James' move "a shocking act of disloyalty." He even goes further to say that LeBron's decision to move to Miami was "the exact opposite lesson of what we would want our children to learn."
Gilbert, give me a break. Are you a businessman who understands how this all works, or are you a whining three-year old who gets angry because he doesn't get his own way? The truth is that LeBron had to make a business decision, and you are showing your own immaturity and lack of loyalty by bashing a guy who gave you seven years of his life. He should never have been in your city in the first place, since we all knew that LeBron's talent has always been meant for a bigger stage. In fact, LeBron gave up at least $100 million dollars in endorsement deals by staying in the city of Cleveland.

Click to read




Thursday, July 8, 2010

What's going on this weekend?

Mix Ultra Lounge, 1107 Broadway, hosts its official grand opening Friday night. Expect a light show, stilt walkers, jugglers and more. Action starts at 9 p.m. Cover is $5 women, $5 men until 11 p.m., $10 men after 11 p.m.

Music recommendation: Scruffy Murphy's, 1037 Broadway, hosts performances by Whiskey & Stout on Friday and Saturday. The band mixes Irish pub songs with Southern rock. Shows start at 10 p.m. and cover is $6.

Here are some other highlights:

FRIDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

SoHo Bar & Grill: Psyknyne, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

Shanty Shack: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-507-3418.

Daileys: Jaded Soul, 10 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: Claiborne and Friends with Lou Vandora, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

The Loft: Peggy Jenkins and The Bizness, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

VFW Post 5228: DJ music, 9 p.m. free. 334-297-6493.

SATURDAY

VFW Post 665: The Last Rodeo Band, 9 p.m. $5. 706-687-6656.

The Loft: Zoogma, 9:30 p.m. $5. 706-596-8141.

Flip Flops: Southbound, 9 p.m. $5.

Daileys: Jaded Soul, 9 p.m. $5. 706-320-3353.

Belloo’s: Claiborne and Friends with Lou Vandora, 9 p.m. $5. 706-494-1584.

Shanty Shack: DJ music, 8 p.m. free. 706-507-3418.

Spicoli’s: Haywire, 9 p.m. $5. 706-221-5252.

SoHo Bar & Grill: SubCam, 10 p.m. $5. 706-568-3316.

VFW Post 5228: Donnie Thomas and band, 9 p.m. $5. 334-297-6493.

Can I buy you a drink?

Seriously, your drink's on me. But please don't order anything more than $5.

This Chicago photo essay highlights the wide range of cocktail prices you might find in one town.

It raises an interesting question: How much are you willing to pay for one drink?

In Columbus, there aren't too many price disparities when it comes to your basic beer and mixed drinks. Some people take issue with the martinis at Belloo's (which can cost around $10), but those drinks are generally stronger than what you'll find at most bars.

When my finances are thriving -- which happens about twice a year -- I have no problem shelling out $10-$12 for a specialty cocktail.

Assuming it involves special presentation, that is.

I hate paying $10 for a mixed drink served in a plastic cup and garnished with a piece of expired fruit.

Overall, I think our local drink prices are pretty reasonable. Nothing screams "no place like home" more than paying $9 for a Bud Light in Vegas and then returning to Columbus.

Weigh in: How much are you willing to pay for one drink?

What's going on tonight?

Looking for a new -- or, um, a new old -- Thursday nightlife option?

The recently reopened Roadhouse resurrected its Thursday night parties.

(Side note: Check out the alliteration in that sentence. Pretty sexy.)

Anyway, every Thursday at the Roadhouse you can hear The Unsung and Stereomonster. Expect $1.50 PBR and no cover charge. Doors open at 9 p.m., show starts around 10:30 p.m.

The Roadhouse is at 1047 Broadway in downtown Columbus.

Another live music option for tonight: Sabra performs at SoHo Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road. There's no cover and music starts around 10 p.m.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

WTF...Woman Eats Her Child's Brain

Texas woman decapitates and eats her newborns brain.

Woman Eats Her Child's Brain? Mental Health and Criminal Justice Systems Failed Her

by Dr. Boyce Watkins

This week, a woman in Texas cut off the head of her three week old baby and ate part of his brain. What’s even more shocking about this terrible story is that she won’t get any jail time for it.

Otty Sanchez, a 34-year old, was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the death of her child, Scott Wesley Buchholz-Sanchez. Prosecutors accepted the plea deal after learning that the woman thought that the devil made her kill her child.

The baby was found in a bedroom with three of his toes chewed off, his head severed and his brain ripped out. Police are saying that the child’s mother ate the boy’s toes and a piece of the brain before stabbing herself in the chest and throat. In the 911 call made by her sister, Sanchez can be heard in the background screaming, “I didn't wanna do it! He told me to!"

click to read




Faking it

Jezebel has an interesting post about the allure -- or lack thereof -- surrounding a stint as a fake girlfriend.

The post's inspiration? A Craig's List item from a gay guy whose visiting parents want to see his girlfriend.

So the fake girlfriend scenario isn't confined to romantic comedies, as Jezebel wisely notes.

The setup sounds like a pretty sweet deal. But I wouldn't do it.

It reminds me of the retrospectively awkward dynamic surrounding my sixth-grade dances. Your friends would collect money, and then pay a member of the opposite sex to dance with you.

You got a fake boyfriend/girlfriend for three minutes. While a Boyz II Men song played in the background.

I couldn't ask for a better romantic groundwork.

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