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Steamy style tips to keep your bedroom warm this fall. This time of year, when the darkness settles in earlier each day, the long summer nights a vague memory while we dig out our flannel pj's, we just might want to take a minute and rethink our evening wear choices. Instead of reaching for the same old unflattering pajamas, try slipping into a simple sexy piece of lingerie. This little trick will definitely keep the temperature up in your bedroom. I think that there is nothing like putting on a gorgeous little number that makes you feel extra saucy. Strutting your stuff in a new outfit is the ultimate way to treat yourself and your mate. It all may seem slightly intimidating if you have never ventured into the wide world of bustiers', thongs and demi cups, and you may have a few questions on how to get started. To find out just what ensembles are sure to please, I sat down with Trisha Stone and founder of Rhode Island based exotic wear company Bad Kitty Exotic Wear. Here she answers some burning questions:
TS: A man's white shirt unbuttoned 4zero1: What styles are most flattering on the following body types? Athletic? TS: boy shorts and tops that show the midriff. This accentuates the legs and the core. Full figured? TS: Flowing, loose fitting outfits work the best. Tightness should only be under the breast. Full chested? TS: V neck fronts or tops that show cleavage with underwire bras underneath for adequate support. Pear shape? TS: Form fitting garments around the waist or jumpsuits with a belt around the waist. 4zero1: Is there a style that looks good on basically anyone? No. looking good is so closely tied to feeling good that it is basically personal preference What should women avoid when dressing vampy for their partner? Overdressing or overacting sexy. Men like it simple and real. What should women look to find in well made lingerie? Stitching should look even and consistent. Look for fabrics that stretch well and have a nice memory, for example, they do not stay distorted when stretched No matter what you choose to wear on these chilly nights, here are two tips that apply not only to dressing up in the bedroom, but something we should all remember every time we want to look our best. First, don't ever forget to wear your confidence. Be sure that you feel good in what you are wearing. If you feel confident and sexy, it is sure to show in your body language thus making you completely irresistible. Also, be sure that you fit in what you are wearing. If you spend more time tugging and adjusting yourself than you do taking in his reaction, you are going to be missing out. These two simple rules are the key to making your night a huge success. Something lacy, silky or maybe just a little racy can get you feeling sexier than ever, but don't dive in head first if you aren't ready. You can incorporate some small changes into your usual routine until you are ready to make the plunge. Remember, a little goes a long way and with you in little more than a sultry smile this Fall, you might just need to turn the ac back on. For more information on the hottest exotic wear, visit BadKittyExoticWear.com.
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Jessica A. Botelho
Riding Out the Storm: The Power of an Oreo Cookie
A few weeks ago, I was feeling a bit gloomy when I was working at one of my retail jobs. It was raining outside and I was bummed the summer came and went so quickly. I’m the kind of person who doesn’t hide my emotions too well and one of my co-workers asked me if I was OK. I told him I was a little upset about a few things and he asked me if he could do anything to cheer me up. In an attempt to be silly, I said, “yeah. Get me a cookie.” We both giggled for a moment and continued doing our jobs.
An hour or so went by and I was still down in the dumps. The rain was still coming down hard and everyone around seemed to be as grumpy as I was. Customers were very demanding and crabby. So, there I was, being a big mope when my co-worker tapped me on the shoulder and handed me an Oreo cookie. Now, the rain outside didn’t stop and the sun didn’t magically emerge, but I definitely felt myself light up a little inside. Not only did I instantly feel happier, I felt grateful. I thanked my co-worker and ate the cookie and smiled.
Not long after, there were two women who both wanted to purchase the same suit in the same size. One woman actually had the suit on, while the other was admiring it. Unfortunately, there was only one suit available in the store and after calling multiple stores in an attempt to find it in another location, I had to tell the customer I had no luck finding one for her. I tried to help her find something else to wear but she told me she was too tired to keep shopping. She walked away looking defeated and I wished there was more I could do.
I went into the fitting room to find the woman who originally had the suit on. She looked just as distressed as the woman who just walked away from me. I asked her if she needed anything and she told me she really liked the suit and wanted it for work, but was guilt ridden because the other customer needed it for a funeral. I watched this woman rub her forehead and dash out of the fitting room. She ran after the other female customer and in the same way my co-worker handed me the cookie, she gave away the suit.
I was standing nearby and watched the whole thing happen in amazement. The two women parted ways and I saw the customer who had to wear the suit to a funeral look stunned. I walked up to her to see if she was OK and she burst into tears. I wasn’t sure what to do, so I hugged her. She sobbed and said her father passed away the day before and she was worried she wasn’t going to find something appropriate in time. To her disbelief, she did.
After she went to the register to make the purchase, I headed back to the fitting room on a mission to find the other woman who made such a selfless sacrifice. I wanted to tell her how impressed I was. When I found her, she asked me to give her a hand finding another outfit. I happily did so. As we were looking through blazers, the customer whose father had died came us to us and gave the woman a gift certificate and told her how thankful she was. Again, I was astonished. At the end of my shift, I left work feeling so much better than I had earlier in the day. To my surprise, it had finally stopped raining.
I wanted to share this story will everyone because I feel as if I witnessed something beautiful. I saw two total strangers go out of their way for one another and that’s something I don’t see often enough these days. So, every once in a while, don’t forget to share with others, even if it’s just giving someone an Oreo cookie.
In closing, do me a favor and check out this link to learn about a dog named Faith. This dog’s life story shows how a little love can go a long way.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZsV4R3XJKk
P.S. Thanks, Milton =)
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Woofers at Weddings
by: Jessica A. Botelho
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Groomsman Percy Smith stands with Gabby as the bride walked down the isle. |
Doug and Tracy Trouf with glamorous Gabby. |
| photos by: Mike Colon Photographers' | |
We call dogs “man’s best friend” for many good reasons. Most often, they even become members of the family. That is why Tracy Trouf and her husband Doug decided to have Gabby, their seven-year-old English bulldog, in their wedding.
“She was originally Doug's bulldog until I came into the picture two and a half years back,” Trouf said. “She has fully welcomed me as her mother and the three of us are completely inseparable.”
Trouf said having Gabby there with them on their big day was a must.
“We consider Gabby our daughter,” she said. “Gabby had such a huge part in our relationship from day one so there was no question in our minds that she had to be included in our wedding.”
 Gary Caligiuri and Riley both look spiffy in their tuxedos. |
Gabby actually acted as an honorary bridesmaid during the day.
“One of Doug's groomsmen held her while we exchanged vows and she walked during the recessional,” Trouf said.
The beautiful bulldog that was born in Hungary even made the newlyweds’ grand entrance into the reception room with her owners. Trouf said when they were on the prowl for a venue to host the wedding, one of their top priorities was to find a dog friendly place.
“If dog's weren't allowed, the location was out,” said Trouf.
On August 15, 2009 at the Boston
Harbor Hotel in Boston, Massachusetts, Tracy and Doug shared their first kiss together as man and wife with Gabby right beside them.
“The hotel was AMAZING to us and to Gabby,” Trouf said. “She even had her own personal butler for the evening who would feed her, take her to her room, and out to the bathroom.”
Trouf said since she and Doug are both extremely into fashion they wanted Gabby to exude some sassy style as well.
“I couldn't see Gabby wearing a dress or anything too bridal looking,” said Trouf. “She is a bulldog and has an edge about her so I really just wanted to get her a funky collar and accessorize according to that.”
The collar Trouf bought Gabby came from an online company called Dog Collar Fancy. It was covered in rhinestones and 2" thick.
“I searched long and hard to find a collar of this width,” said Trouf. “Gabby also had a matching lead that was covered in rhinestones.”
When Trouf got the collar, she realized it wasn't enough and thought Gabby needed some more sparkle. Trouf figured a tutu would be perfect to give Gabby a little extra glam.
“The back of my gown had hand constructed flowers made of tulle,” Trouf said. “Since I couldn't duplicate these flowers on a smaller scale, I decided a tutu would be the best option for her to somewhat match me.”
Interestingly enough, Trouf made the tutu herself.
“It took about three hours to do and I cut all the individual pieces from six yards of tulle,” she said. “It took Gabby a while to get used to the tutu and she had to practice wearing it for the weeks leading up to the wedding.”
Gabby also had her nails painted black to match the bride’s nails.
“It was really cute for us to see,” Trouf said.
Trouf said Gabby loves being around people and has a very outgoing and fun loving personality.
“It was so much fun having her in our wedding,” Trouf said. “The second I saw her after I walked down the aisle, I absolutely lost it. It was her first time in a big city but she was well behaved in front of the 200+ guests that were watching.”
Another pooch that got all dolled up for his owners’ wedding was Riley the Lhasa Apso.
“Riley is definitely a family member,” said Gary Caligiuri, whose daughter Courtney was married at the Ocean Cliffs in Newport, Rhode Island on August 15th, 2009, the same day Tracy and Doug were wed.
Unlike Gabby, one-year-old Riley did not attend the wedding, but he was dressed in a tuxedo and with the bride the whole time she got ready for her nuptials.
“He greeted everyone who came to the house while my daughter prepared for her big day,” said Caligiuri. “He was the perfect gentleman.”
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Jessica A. Botelho
A Final Rant For the Summer…”How Could You Be So Heartless…??”
When I first heard about Kanye West’s little stunt on the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, I said to myself, “Sweet. That’s the perfect topic to rant about. I can easily bang out a blog on that idiotic crap because it’s so ridiculous.”
But as the week went on, I realized I didn’t want to write about what a stupid move he made-and it WAS stupid. And mean. And ignorant. So let me take a brief minute to discuss this. Running up to the stage and grabbing the microphone out of Taylor Swift’s hand during her acceptance speech for ‘Best Female Video’ was completely and totally foolish. Even the biggest Kanye fans should admit that. If anything, the real problem I have with Mr. West is the fact that he did what he did and said what he said then went on Jay Leno apologizing (and crying) for it. Face it, Kanye: you meant what you said. Therefore, you shouldn’t be saying you’re sorry. You’re not sorry. You may have admitted you have a “problem,” but, again, you're not sorry. (PR stunt, anyone?? Jealous of Jay-Z?? Hmmmm…)
Nevertheless, on to what really pissed me off about the whole situation. I didn’t even have the slightest urge to watch the VMAs in the first place this year. Why is that, you ask?? Because MTV is a joke, that’s why.
I find it pretty damn pathetic that MTV never even plays music videos anymore. Seriously. I remember a time when it actually was Music Television. A time when you could watch your favorite bands rock the hell out. The demise all started with shows like ‘The Real Word,’ and ‘Road Rules,’ two shows that aren’t real and don’t rule. As messed up as ‘Jackass’ was, I preferred watching Johnny Knoxville get whacked in the wang with a sledgehammer. At least he was hot. Anyone remember Liquid Television back in the day…now that show was sick.
Since MTV hardly ever plays videos, (maybe at 3am??) I’m not so sure they should even be allowed to call themselves Music Television. Where’s the music?? It barely exists-even at the award shows. It’s obvious certain celebrities are getting wasted at the awards because they don’t take MTV seriously; hence Kanye’s Hennessey outburst and other debacles like Britney’s horrible pill-induced performance a few years ago. Maybe it's because MTV doesn’t take itself seriously anymore. I know I don’t and I haven’t in a long time.
Also, who the hell is that guy who hosted the event both this year and last year?? Russell Brand?? I’m surprised I even took the energy to google it and find out. What a moron that dude is.
The VMAs were cool when Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora played an acoustic version of, ‘Wanted: Dead Or Alive;’ when Britney Spears came out with a snake draped over her gorgeous body; when Chris Rock dominated as a host. At least when Courtney Love hijacked Madonna’s interview in 1995 it was funny. Now, we’re left with Kanye being a maniacal d-bag and Russell Brand making stupid jokes onstage. Yuck. The only saving grace the show had this year was the classy sassy Beyonce giving Swift her “moment.”
I’ll take that last comment back. Many of my friends said the tribute to Michael Jackson was awesomeness. Well, THAT’S what the MTV Video Music Awards should be about. Paying tribute to great MUSIC. So, here it is MTV…I’m mad at you because you NEVER show us videos. You are far more “heartless” than Kanye West ever could be. You make me weep.
I want my MTV?? How about I want my MTV BACK?? “You heard it first.”
P.S. What ever happened to Jesse Camp??
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Jessica A. Botelho
Top Five-Rant
I have been a very bad girl. I have not written anything for you in over three weeks. Well, shame on me. But, I’ve been busy writing this week and I decided to combine my old top five theme with my current ranting theme. I thought about compiling a top 10, but I figured that would be a bit too much. So, I narrowed it down to these five things that made me really want to fart in someone’s face.
5. Personal posts on social networks: Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, you name it and people are posting all sorts of ridiculous garbage on their walls and pages. While it can actually be pretty amusing sometimes, it’s always pathetic-and dramatic. Most of it seems to be a plea for attention and that’s just lame. You really shouldn’t be tweeting about your nasty breakup, health problems, or that b*tch who spilled her drink on you last night and how bad you want to beat her a**. You may as well whip out a black sharpie the next time you’re in the bathroom at your favorite dive bar and write your nonsense there. Keep the posts positive, please.
4. Saying, “I’m real” all the time: If you constantly have to remind everyone that you “tell it like it is,” and you are self-described as, “brutally honest,” you probably need to learn how to watch what you say and tone it down a bit. In other words, realize you should work on shutting your mouth more often. Just the other day, someone said a few different things to me that were kind of rude. This person followed every insult with an insincere “oh, sorry,” and an explanation of how blunt she is. All I could think of was what an immature ignoramus she sounded like. She was lucky I kept my razor sharp tongue at bay and simply laughed off her jabs.
3. Walkers, joggers, bicyclists on Middlebridge Road: I’m even going to add reckless drivers in that group. For those of you who are not familiar with Middlebridge Road, it’s a very narrow, somewhat winding road along the scenic route to Narragansett Beach. The speed limit is 25 miles per hour and I highly suggest not to speed. But, the many people who go for walks, jogs, and bike rides on this road bother me more than the drivers. I swear some joggers must have a death wish. It seems as if they think they are perfectly fine running along halfway into the street. Maybe it’s the combination of the drivers and the pedestrians piss me off because I often have to stop in the middle of the road while a car passes me on the left just so I don’t run over a sweaty idiot on a 10 speed to my right.
2. Being a HATER: Ewwwww! I hate HATERS! Did you feel nothing but envy when one of your best friends bought a brand new car, got his/her dream job, or graduated college when you were driving a beat up whip, working a job you hated, sans degree?? While it may be a little natural to want all sorts of great things to come your way, it’s a bad sign when you don’t feel happy for your friends. Very bad. File down your claws and compliment your loved ones by letting them know you are proud of them and their accomplishments. Think of how hard they worked for their achievements and do the same for yourself. Drop the jealousy and get a life. It’s not cute.
1. People who stare: I’m afraid I’m going to sound like a beast on this one but I just have to say it…I cannot stand being gawked at. It doesn’t matter who is doing the staring; hot guy or yucky guy, it’s incredibly annoying. I understand glancing happens…I’m NOT talking about checking out a sexy person. That’s permitted. I’m referring to basically being watched by people. Eye-raped, to describe it harshly. It’s disturbing. I particularly don’t like when I get stared at while I’m eating. It’s never a good time. In fact, it’s the worst when I’m trying to enjoy foods such as bananas, lollipops, hot dogs, egg rolls, ice cream cones, Italian sausages; you get the idea. Can a girl eat in peace?! Sheesh!!
Jessica A. Botelho
Jessica’s RANT of the Week:
Sloppy Shoppers, Be Gone!
In addition to writing these lovely blogs, I work part-time in retail at two clothing stores. To be completely honest, I don’t want to work in retail for the rest of my life, but for now I like selling clothes. If a customer needs something they think is appropriate for a wedding, a job interview, a night out, or just a day at the beach, I actually enjoy helping them find the right outfit. I don’t lie to customers just to make a profit. If I think a certain blouse doesn’t look quite right or a pair of jeans don’t fit too well, I tell the customer and I get them trying on styles that will suit them best. Even just showing a shopper where their size is and hearing them thank me makes me feel good. But I can’t stand it when people leave fitting rooms messy, rip or ruin clothes, shop over the phone, act like they are the only person in line, and expect you to wait on them like celebrities.
Since most of my wardrobe consists of clothing from these two stores, it’s safe to say I love and respect the merchandise I sell. Truthfully, I absolutely drool over some of the pieces of clothing I see on a daily basis. That said, I don’t appreciate it when people go into the fitting rooms, try on a bunch of clothes and proceed leave them all inside out in a big ball on the floor. Seriously, trying on clothes can be a pain, but it’s really very simple. You take them off the hangers, put them on your body, have a look, take them off your body, and put them back on the hangers. It may be a bit tasking but it’s necessary. Throwing them in the corner of a dressing room because you don't like them or they don’t fit you is inconsiderate to the clothes, (yes, clothes have feelings), the store, and to other customers who may want the garments you rudely rejected. It also wrinkles the clothing and it takes time for a staff of tailors to steam them because you were being dreadfully lazy and lewd. As far as I’m concerned, if you don’t treat the clothing properly you don’t deserve the privilege to even touch it. Plus, it’s insulting to me since I have to pick the clothes off the floor. I don’t mind if you hang them and leave them in the stall, but I hate seeing pretty clothes on the floor. I take it very personally.
It’s even worst when these same crappy customers try on clothes that are 10 sizes too small-and they rip them. Word to the wise: if you’re normally a size 12, a two petite isn’t going to fit you-no matter what. I’m not trying to be mean, but it’s next to impossible to tell a woman she needs to go up a few sizes. So do me a favor and stay out of clothes you know you have no business squeezing your rump into. Zippers bust and seams split when they are pushed to certain limits. DON’T DO IT. Besides, clothing looks better on you if it fits well. Too tight is never good as far as closes are concerned. It can even give the illusion you are heavier than you really are.
Dresses can also be destroyed if you drag them around on the floor while you shop. I frequently take clothes from customers and set the merchandise up in fitting rooms while they continue to browse to prevent this, but somehow I see the same women using long skirts and gowns as dust mops. Then they ask for discounts since the merchandise is “damaged,” when they destroyed the garments in the first place. It’s very annoying and it makes me sick. There is no reason to be so ignorant.
Another ignorant thing customers can do is shop over the phone. These people are particularly pesky. It doesn’t bother me if someone calls and asks if any new stock came in or wants to know if we have a certain size they need, but it’s just wrong when that person makes me run around looking for an entire wardrobe via AT&T. It’s next to impossible to find a person the proper attire when you don’t have him/her standing in front of you. Here’s another thing I hate: if you happen to be in the store, don’t think of me as your personal shopper. You are not some hot A-list celebrity, so I don’t plan on having me follow after you while you launch a stack of clothes in my arms. That is quite the no-no. You’re not the only one who needs assistance.
Oh, and by the way…clothing in Rhode Island isn’t taxed so be sure to tally up your total before you get to the register. Asking if something rang up on sale or inquiring about what your sub-total comes up to is fine, but saying, “how much is it now?? How about now??!! And nowwww??!!” after I scan every single item is obnoxious and it holds up the line. Since there are little things called price tags on the merchandise, you can add the numbers in your head. If you have trouble with simple addition, bring a calculator with you when you shop. Also, if the store is closing, it’s time to bring your stuff to the register and get going. Don’t dilly-dally just to be a turd.
Speaking of turds, don’t change your child’s diaper in the fitting room and leave it there. I’ve found some nasty things in the dressing rooms including many poopy diapers, poop splattered on the rug and all over the stalls, a positive pregnancy test, (get ready for this one) wet breast pads-think, a woman who is nursing her baby wears them inside her bra…like a maxi pad for milk filled boobies. It was foul. And stop tossing your garbage in the parking lot. It’s not your dumpster. Since when is littering ok??
The next time you go shopping please be more considerate of the merchandise, the store, as well as the employees. I know good customer service can be hard to come by (believe me, I work with some beauties who rarely assist people) but that doesn’t mean all retail workers are like that. I pride myself on meeting the needs of my customers and I feel happy when I satisfy shoppers. So I ask you kindly not to leave clothes on the floor and not to rip them or drag them around. Refrain from shopping over the phone, acting like you’re royalty, and please don’t leave your boob juice in the fitting room.
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Jessica’s NON-rant of the week:
by: Jessica A. Botelho
I decided to take a break from the ranting this week and do a little reminiscing for a change. I really didn’t think I should spend my time complaining about the trite issues that boil my blood when three iconic American celebrities all passed away in a matter of days of one another. It was a bit unnerving, so I figured it would be appropriate to look back on the lives of Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson.
Some of you may not remember Ed McMahon, so allow me to educate you. The veteran television personality, who died at the age of 86 on Tuesday, June 23rd, was most known for his role as Johnny Carson’s sidekick on the Tonight Show from 1962-1992. With his thick, full-throated voice, McMahon used to introduce Carson with two simple dragged out words: “Heeeeeeere’s Johnny!!” He hosted Star Search in the 80’s and 90’s, co-hosted TV's Bloopers and Practical Jokes with Dick Clark from 1982-1998, and also co-hosted the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon every year for what seemed like forever. Prior to his television career, McMahon served as a fighter pilot for the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He was discharged in 1946 and retired as a Colonel in 1966.
Ten years later in 1976, Farrah Fawcett landed the role of private investigator Jill Munroe on Charlie’s Angels. Although the model/actress only starred on one season of the show, she was by far the most popular Angel. Fawcett’s biggest claim to fame was most likely her poster, the one of her wearing a red one-piece bathing suit and a gorgeous smile. In fact, the poster was made before she appeared on the series and it’s sales skyrocketed after the show aired. She quickly became an international sex symbol and women across America raced to their hair salons begging stylists to cut their hair just like Fawcett’s feathered blonde mane. Sadly, she lost a three-year battle with cancer and died in Los Angeles on the morning of Thursday, June 25th.
The same day Fawcett died, Michael Jackson also passed away. The death of the 50-year-old music icon came as a compete shock compared to the deaths of McMahon and Fawcett. McMahon and Fawcett had both been publicly struggling with health issues for a few years, while the King of Pop had somehow seemed to finally be out of hot water. For all we knew, all was well. But on Thursday, as he was preparing for a 50-show tour that was set to begin in London on the 13th of July, he collapsed and allegedly died of a heart attack.
Whether you think Jackson was a weirdo pedophile that was “off the wall” or not, the man left an impressive mark on the music industry. From the time he began his career as a singer in his family band the Jackson 5 all the way to the day he died, Jackson truly paved the way for many pop, hip-hop, and R&B artists. His 1982 album, Thriller, still holds the title for best selling album in the world. There’s obviously something to be said for that. Not only was he a fantastic musician, he was innovative in fashion, as he made fedora hats popular again and taught everyone that wearing only one glove was the thing to do. And I can’t mention Jackson without boasting about his serious dance skills. He was the master moonwalker and no one could hold a candle to his robot moves. Because he’s bad, you know it ;)
So, with the Fourth of July (and yummy summer weather) looming, let us pay a small tribute to three American icons that just lost their lives. I’m not saying you should pin up a Fawcett poser and moonwalk across your room while watching reruns of TV's Bloopers and Practical Jokes, but there’s nothing wrong with happily remembering how great these celebrities were. I think we all should especially blast any Michael Jackson songs we hear and let the most successful entertainer of all time be remembered as the musical genius he was.
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"Workout Summer Resolutions"
HEALTH and FITNESS
By Dan Poulis
Owner of ReactionSC and Certified Trainer at Gold's Gym
At the beginning of the summer it seems like everyone has similar summer
resolutions. The resolutions I usually hear goes something like this…”I want to lose
20 pounds… I want to lose 40 pounds…I want to eat healthy…I want to work out”. This
year you can stick to that resolution; you have to make a plan and follow through
with it. Below I am going to list 10 recommendations that you should stick to when
excercising and eating. In doing so it will maximize your results in getting that
new body you have always wanted.
1. Emphasize multi joint movements like Squats, Deadlifts, Bench Press.
2. Stabilize the spine don’t flex it (Planks instead of crunches).
3. Rest adequately (4 days of weight training is good enough).
4. For fat loss, understand that fat is not metabolically active, muscle is.
(To get lean, gain muscle.)
5. You don’t grow from pumps.
(You grow through progressive overload, which is
the increase of intensity, intensity means increase of weight or sets and reps.
6. Exercise in a full ranger of motion.
7. Get flexible, mobilize joints.
(Joint mobility is the ability of a joint to
move freely upon its access.)
8. Get off the machines.
9. To lose weight, eat less.
10. The more protein the better.
Visit ReactionSC.Com.
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Jessica’s RANT OF THE WEEK:
This rant topic was without a doubt a very easy pick for me. Here we are in the third week of June and it’s rained cats and dogs nearly every single day. Next week, the first official week of summer, doesn’t look so good either. The forecast predicts heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms on certain days until Saturday, June 27th. That means clouds will be hanging around for another seven days and my poor dog Ginger will have a heart attack when she hears the thunder roll. I’m definitely beyond sick of this soggy, miserable weather and I’m sure the rest of you Rhode Islanders are tired of it, too. Actually, I know most of you have had enough of it because it seems to be all I hear from just about everyone.
That said, as much as I loathe the rain, I want to make a valiant effort not to complain about it. I ranted in the above paragraph and I just decided it’s the last time I will b*tch and moan about the inclement weather. Do you want to know why?? Because the only thing more annoying than getting drenched in a downpour is being forced to listen to people incessantly complain about it. Don’t get me wrong…when my friends say it’s a bummer we can’t all go to the beach together because the sun seems to be permanently stuck behind a cumulonimbus cloud, I agree. It absolutely makes me wish the rain would take a hike so we can sizzle in the sun. I hate missing out on valuable beach time but I realize there’s nothing I can do about it. All I really can do is change my attitude. Maybe I can change your attitude, too.
The first thing we need to do is just get over it. After all, we pretty much dealt with the rain for three weeks straight as it is, so what’s one more week?? I know most of you probably have had less than stellar time out of work and maybe you’re vacation was a disaster because you were forced to stay in the whole time. I hear ya. My vacation kind of stunk a few weeks ago and I was hoping for better weather. But before we know it, the rain will be gone and we will be able to spend much needed weekends and days off doing outdoor activities.
We can also change our attitudes about the yucky weather by taking advantage of it. Since we may be stuck in the house because that cook out or pool party we were supposed to go to got cancelled, take the time to do a few things you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t gotten around to yet. Watch the shows you DVR’d, read the rest of that book you didn’t finish, give yourself a manicure, play video games until your fingers bleed, make love all day. Better yet, get off your butt, put on your slicker, grab your umbrella and brave the rain. Just be extra careful driving.
Another way to see the rain situation in a different light is for us to remind ourselves of all the yummy nutrients our earth is getting right now. The other day I heard my dad say he’s tired of the rain but he hasn’t seen our grass this green in quite some time. My mom chimed in and said the flowers she planted in the backyard looked beautiful. This made me slightly smile towards the clouds and I felt bit thankful for the rain. Who doesn’t like lush green grass and pretty flowers?? C’mon!
We all know the rain sucks so let’s lay off the negative blabber and literally look on the bright side for a change. For all we know, the forecast could be wrong. Maybe it won’t rain all week. If it does, it’s ok because it’s unlikely for it to rain the whole summer long. There will be plenty of days for us to hang at one of Rhode Island’s many beaches, go to Six Flags, enjoy a ballgame at the park, rock out an outdoor concert, and eat that tasty burger at that cook out you missed. I’m done hating on the weather and you should be too. Don’t let the rain get the best of you…and please don’t squawk to me if it does. I don’t want to hear it. If you do, you can be sure I’ll be busy ignoring you and fantasizing about spending the next sunny day with my friends on the beach.
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This past week, I painfully tossed around the idea of ranting about Hulk Hogan. You see, I had a hard time deciding whether or not I should write a negative piece about one of my childhood heroes and his family. I had heard all the gossip about his divorce involving his estranged wife, Linda Hogan, and I felt pretty bad for them and their children, Brooke and Nick. I thought his wife was a trashy hag for messing around with a guy that not only was her son’s age, but also clearly resembled him. Yet, after all that, I now feel slightly grossed out and let down by the 55-year-old former wrestler, whose real name is Terry Bollea, for the same reason I detest his wife… Because his girlfriend looks just like his daughter, Brooke.
Not wanting to believe the Hulkster is a creep, I pushed aside the idea for the blog topic and held off writing anything for a few days. But by Sunday night, when I snuggled up on the couch and watched the season premiere of “Brooke Knows Best” on VH-1, you better believe I became more than willing to squawk about him.
Now, I don’t want to be mean, but I do want to be honest. It’s straight up bizarre to me that both Hogan and his ex are dating people who are clones of their kids. It’s beyond foul. Hulk irritates me more than Linda does mainly because he was someone I used to admire and think was super cool. Plus, I could care less about the former Mrs. Hogan.
When I watched the show on Sunday, I was nauseated during the dinner scene in which he introduced his daughter to her long lost twin, I mean his new girlfriend, for the first time. Jennifer McDainels, the Hulkster’s main squeeze, was certainly graceful throughout their time together, as was Brooke. Brooke seemed to throw out slight insults here and there, but for the most part she was well behaved. In an attempt to get them acquainted, Hogan kept bringing up similarities between the two women. He suggested they have a roller blade race and at one point he also said, “I just want you and Brooke to hook up.” Yeah, interesting choice of words. I bet that’s what he wants. Ewww. It was as if he was proposing a ménage a trios, as opposed to introducing his girlfriend to his child. In another intense scene, Hogan shared lunch with Brooke and the two were holding hands across the table like lovers. Blech!
After plenty of chitchat from Hogan about how Brooke and Jennifer share many of the same interests, the only physical attribute he acknowledged as similar between them was their height. Standing eye to eye together on the beach the women really looked like identical twins. But, the comparisons go beyond height. They also have very similar builds, sport long bleach blonde hair, and appear to have raided the same wardrobe closet before the taping of the show.
After the episode ended, I surfed the web a bit and found some photos and videos of Hogan and McDaniels that further disappointed me, and quite frankly, creeped me out. In a few pics, I really couldn’t tell if the Hulkster had his perfectly tanned 24-inch pythons around his girlfriend or around his daughter. What is he thinking?? Is this really his soul mate or is she an actress who was hired to spice up the show?? Either way, I miss the guy who wore red and yellow and kicked Andre the Giant’s butt. Hulkamania is long gone…
I certainly can’t slam the Hulkster’s bizarre post divorce relationship without taking a few stabs at Linda. Her new little lover boy is 19, the same age as her son Nick. Her new man Charlie blatantly resembles Nick, and like Brooke and Jennifer, they have that same damn hair. Ughhh. She claimed she thought Charlie was 27 or 28 when she met him one day at the beach. But whether or not she thought he was older, he isn’t…and no matter what age he may be, he still looks just like her offspring. I guess I’ll go easy on her though since the tabloids have already torn her a new turnbuckle.
Get your ish together, Hogan family. Sheesh!
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by: Jessica A. Botelho
Jessica’s Rant of the Week:
While I had originally planned to keep my weekly blogs focused on current events in the mass media, nothing in Hollywood really irritated me this week. Of course, I am a bit miffed over the violent Rihanna/Chris Brown saga that seems to keep getting worse; I’m sick of hearing about all the Jon & Kate Plus Eight nonsense; and I wish reporters should give Susan Boyle a rest from the spotlight before she has a nervous breakdown and smacks a paparazzi camera man-Tommy Lee style. But, while these topics mildly ruffle my feathers, they certainly don’t send me into full on rant mode.
One thing that did make me want to go off on a tangent during the last week concerns the beach. Now, if you know me, you should know I absolutely adore the beach. I think there are very few things as precious as waking up early on a lazy summer day, taking a quick shower, throwing on a bikini, and heading to the land of sand and sunshine. Memorial Day weekend marked the opening of most beaches in the state of Rhode Island and I had last week off. On the days it didn’t rain, I managed to squeeze in blissful time soaking up the sun. Yet, through my sunglasses, I saw some of the most senseless, moronic, thoughtless class acts while priming my tan.
The first unacceptable beach behavior I noticed involved what I like to call sand abuse, and tons of it. Whether an imbecile is flip-flopping along and kicking it up in your face or some idiot shakes out their towel and blanket with no mercy right in your mouth, having sand launched at you is no fun in the sun. A word to the sandal wearing beach goers: please walk with caution while you’re strutting on the sand. I know you may think you look cute in your new swimsuit and you probably do, but try not to bury your fellow beach goers and take off your flip-flops before walking to get a Del’s. After all, the last thing you want to do is kick sand in someone else’s.
Another thing that really burned my buns were the people who chain-smoked, especially near babies and children. GROSS. Don’t get me wrong, if you want to light up, be my guest, but maybe you should think twice about taking drags and carelessly huffing them out in the direction of infants, toddlers, and that ten-year-old building a sand castle. Double negative points for you if the kids happen to be your own. What gets me the most is just when you think the air is clear and you can breathe for awhile without sucking down second hand butt smoke, the same person reaches for their cigarettes and puffs on another, and another. FYI, the beach isn’t your ashtray. If you’re going to smoke, bring a water bottle or keep the cup to your iced coffee and dispose of the remains that way. Don’t snuff them out in the sand and don’t absentmindedly throw them without putting them out. Ever step on a lit cigarette at the beach?? Well, it hurts. Not to mention the harm they do to seagulls and other animals that eat them thinking they are food. According to the DEM, cigarettes are the number-one source of litter on beaches. I’m not saying there should be designated smoking and non-smoking areas at the beach, but if people don’t change their ignorant, repugnant ways, I doubt I’d be opposed to the idea.
I also couldn’t stand hearing foolish conversations from people four or five blankets away from me. There is really no reason to talk at the top of your lungs and then look around to see who heard you say something stupid. No one thinks you’re funny. Loud talkers are annoying no matter where you are, but they are particularly unpleasant when you’re trying to relax. If I can hear your obnoxious voice over the B-side of ‘Shout At the Devil’ when all I feel like doing is enjoying some good old rock and roll and spraying on tanning oil, you’re way too loud. Do us all a favor and tone it down a bit.
My biggest pet peeve that occurred at the beach was an easy one to label the very worst. I totally loathe uninvited blanket buddies. You must know what I’m talking about. Picture this: you’re with your favorite friends having a good time and a group of tools/hags flop down on your blanket, park their behinds in your lounge chairs, and linger around after you’ve dropped 1,000 hints at them to get lost. I can usually squash these unfortunate incidents fairly easily, as I’m not very friendly to unwanted chit-chatters, and a dirty look and icy comment usually rid me of them quite quickly. But, there are clueless people out there who can’t read social cues. So, if I don’t look up at you while you’re blocking my sun, or I shove my headphones in both ears as you attempt to tell me your name, take a hike, pal.
If you happen to be guilty of any of these bad beach behaviors, I think you may need to clean up your act. It’s really not that hard. Just try not to kick sand at people; avoid blowing cigarette smoke towards others; don’t talk so loud all the time; and please, don’t invite yourself on strangers’ blankets. It’s rude. Ask first, and don’t be insulted if you are denied. Just move along and be sure not to shake your towel off in your neighbor’s face as you pack up to go home.
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I’m getting to the point where it is really starting to upset me when I see photos of an ailing Patrick Swayze on many of the cheesy poo-poo tabloid magazines near the check out stands in every single grocery store or pharmacy I visit. It seems as if I can’t go food shopping or purchase a pack of gum without seeing horrific shots of him all over the place. The 56 year-old actor has been battling stage-four pancreatic cancer (he also has a small malignant mass in his liver) since January of 2008. Pictures of him looking gaunt, almost hairless, and seriously sick constantly appear on the covers of many of these shameless rag mags. In my opinion, the Paparazzi and these journalists really need to chill out.
Just this past Tuesday, after rumors had been circulating that he had died, Swayze had to announce to the media he was still alive. Does that sound right to anyone?? A man who is ferociously fighting cancer has to report to the public he is not dead. I don’t like it and my heart goes out to him and his family. Other reports have said Swayze has only weeks or months to live, as many pancreatic cancer patients have died a mere few months after being diagnosed. But, Swayze has stood the test of time and continues to wrestle cancer. In fact, he filmed 13 episodes and performed his own stunts for A&E’s action packed series, The Beast. On the show, Swayze plays Charles Barker, a tenacious, fearless FBI agent who struggles with inner demons. I would say, in real life, the demons are the terrible tabloids.
Moreover, seeing his face on these joke publications, compete with their lame, always false headlines, makes me wonder if the photos are even real or not. Are they computer generated or enhanced?? I don’t really know, but I’m pretty tired of looking at them. It is beyond cruel to publish such trash. Leave the man alone. It’s causing him emotional stress. What bothers me the most is Swayze appeared very healthy and energetic on Barbara Walter’s show earlier this year. He looked pretty damn hot, if I may say so myself. Where are all the articles focusing on his huge amount of courage and will to stay alive and keep acting?? I’m sure they’re out there, but I haven’t seen many.
As a rebuttal to these crappy magazines and their filthy stories, let me please take a moment to remind every one of how talented and charming Swayze is, and has always been. Go back to the time when he kicked butt as the mouthy, bodacious bouncer, Dalton, in 1989’s, Roadhouse. I remember when he said, “It’s my way, or the highway,” while looking fine as hell. How can anyone forget about his romantic role as Sam Wheat in 1990’s, Ghost,along side Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg?? And, my personal favorite character he played was the sexy, leather wearing, longhaired rebel/dance instructor, Johnny Castle, in 1987’s, Dirty Dancing. Oh, Baby…
For Swayze, dancing wasn’t something he learned in order to play a part in a film. His mother had a dance studio in Houston, Texas, where he not only danced, but also where he met his wife, Lisa Niemi, 36 years ago. The two have been married for 33 years and currently enjoy spending time together with their horses and dogs on their ranch New Mexico.
I wonder if the Paparazzi creeps that get in the face of a man who has a fatal disease are proud of themselves. Do they not realize they are following around a sick man trying to live his life the best way he knows how?? It’s pathetic if you ask me. He doesn’t need the added irritation. He has enough to deal with. Besides, they report inaccurate “news.” I think these so-called journalists and photographers need to lay off him and find something else to write about.
He fees the same way. On Walter’s show, Swayze himself said, “I have the meanness and the passion to say, ‘the hell with you. Watch me. You watch what I pull off.’”
That’s my boy. Get that Roadhouse attitude going again and kick some more butt. Patrick Swayze, you are an inspiration and your will to beat this disease is impressive. You truly are, “a miracle, dude.”
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The other day, I read an article on-line about Oprah Winfrey that ticked me off and made me shake my head at the usually respectable talk-show host. Apparently, the mogul recently apologized to novelist, James Frey, (over the phone, no less) after slamming him and his artistic integrity as a writer on national television back in 2005 for “lying” in his book, A Million Little Pieces. Frey wrote he was in jail for a few months when in actuality, he was only behind bars for a few hours. In my opinion, Oprah foolishly caused a HUGE controversy over this and Frey’s writing career suffered as a result. It was not the book or his “lie” that caused such a negative stir; it was Oprah’s BIG mouth.
Now, let me make what I’m trying to say as crystal clear as I possibly can: I am not upset with Oprah for apologizing. No sir. In fact, I think it’s pretty admirable she decided to admit her fault to Frey. Furthermore, I like Oprah. I commend her for helping people and reaching out to as many viewers as she has on her TV show. There is no doubt in my mind the woman deserves a round of applause for her many talents and accomplishments. But, let’s hold off on the clapping for now…
Here’s my beef: I don’t like the fact she humiliated him on her very own talk show without really knowing what she was talking about in the first place. You see, I’m not an expert on literature, but I am a writer who has a Bachelor’s Degree in English with a focus on Creative Writing from Rhode Island College. During my studies as an undergrad, I took several fiction-writing workshops as well as a non-fiction course. In the non-fiction class, we heavily explored the differences between genres of literature, as well as the many terms linked to non-fiction writing, including ‘autobiography’ and ‘memoir.’ All the students in the class, as well as the professor, agreed that a memoir is a subclass of an autobiography even though the two terms are often thought of as synonymous. That is, they are frequently mistaken as the same thing, but they are not.
Add this to my argument: the word memoir is derived from the French word, mémoire, and from the Latin term, memoria, both meaning "memory" or a way of remembering something.
That said, A Million Little Pieces was published as a memoir. I feel it is almost virtually impossible to write a memoir without slight fabrications here and there. How could he not fib a little? None of us have photographic memories, do we, Oprah?? To further defend Frey, I feel it is necessary to note that the book she slammed him for “lying” in was about drug addiction and alcoholism. How could a recovering addict clearly recount his past?? In addition to A Million Little Pieces, I have read several drug related memoirs. My favorites include Nikki Sixx’s Heroin Diaries; William S. Burroughs’ Junky; and the anonymously published young adult journal, Go Ask Alice. Like Frey, I would say these writers gave the best possible account of their addictions. Don’t tell me little lies weren’t thrown in here and there simply to fill in memory lapses.
On the flip side, you could argue that Frey’s lie wasn’t so small. He did make it seem as if he was in jail a lot longer than he really was. But, personally, I don’t mind, as the prison scenes are some of the most colorful ones in the novel. Unlike me, Oprah got angry because she supported his memoir and included it in her book club only to find out she wasn’t being told the complete truth.
Another reason why I’m irritated with her is that she apologized to Frey in private, while she humiliated him in front of most of America. If she can drag him and his book through the mud on camera, she needs to seek forgiveness on camera, too. Keep in mind that after her show aired, Frey’s publisher, Riverhead Books, cancelled their deal with him. Nice job, Ms. Winfrey. You’re lucky he didn’t turn back to booze and drugs because of your ignorance.
I like you, Oprah, I really do. So, do me a favor, please. Don’t attempt to ruin any other author’s career because he wrote a memoir and twisted the truth a bit. And, do yourself a favor…invite Frey back on your show and apologize to him in front of America instead of just over the phone.
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As much as a lazy slacker Manny Ramirez has been in the past, I always cherished the moments when the deadheaded slugger smashed big bombs over the green monster at Fenway Park. I also was quite fond of the way he dropped his bat every time he cranked a homer out of the ball field. While many people hated him for having that cocky, aloof attitude, it simply endeared me to him.
Being a big time Sox fan, I felt pretty sad and bummed out when he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers last summer, but I was happy to see him reunited on the baseball diamond with former Sox short stop, Nomar Garciaparra. Now, after learning he tested positive for a performance enhancing substance, I’m not really sure what to make of him right now.
When I first heard he followed in the footsteps of Barry Bonds, fellow former Sox pitcher Roger Clemens, as well as Jose Canseco, Mark McGwire, (remember the Bash Brothers??!!) and A-Hole, oops, I mean A-Rod, I cannot say I was super surprised, but I was incredibly disappointed. At that moment, feelings of betrayal, disgust, and immense irritation seemed to stir in the pit of my stomach. I quickly became angry.
But, then I tried to tell myself that it did not seem very clear as to whether or not Ramirez was guilty or not. Then, I wondered why he failed to contest or appeal his 50-game suspension. Well, I guess I just did not want to believe it. I still don’t want to admit it to myself. Yet, it is true. The drug doing Dodger tested positive for HCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, which is a female fertility drug. I think the key word is female fertility drug. Why was he taking that? Apparently, the drug reduces the side effects of ending a cycle of steroids. Hmmmm…
On the flip side, Ramirez claims he was taking a medication that contained the banned substance HCG and his physician prescribed it to him. Is this his poor attempt at a rebuttal?? I’m not sure I buy it-and I highly doubt anyone else does either. You would think if he was not guilty he would argue against missing out on one-third of the season, as well as a hefty portion of his salary. Come on now.
My question is this: where does this leave the Dodgers?? The team is currently in first place in the National League. Will they be able to hold the top spot without him?? Because he was slamming needles in his behind, the team has lost their best hitter in exchange for a massive amount of negative hype going around their clubhouse.
So Manny, like all those baseballs you crushed with your bat, you did the same to your teammates, your fans, and my heart. You straight up crushed it. I say, shame on you, Man Ram.
Dodger General Manager Nate Colletti said it best when he proclaimed Thursday, May 7th as, “a dark day in baseball.” You got that right, Nate.
Go juice yourself, Manny.
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We got a chance to sit down with famous New York designer and producer Brian Wood at Area 4zero1 Clothing store on Saturday May 2. We asked him some questions and we got a little insight into the crazy world of fashion!
How did you get started in this industry?
To be honest, I just jumped into it. I never really planned on designing clothes. I attended Pratt Institute and studied fashion, and I loved it. I went to work at Sean John and several other major companies before I went off on my own.
What were some of the biggest obstacles you had to overcome in the beginning
of your career up until now?
Still now… Funding (laughs). But I also have to say branding the company. The image the company receives is huge and you want it to be a positive one, and putting out the product continuously. You always want to be coming out with something new.
Who do you credit your success to?
I could not have done it without the support from my family, and David. He has been vice president of the company since 2001. Also, the stores and boutiques that carry my clothes, I can’t thank them enough including Area 4zero1 Clothing Store.
Where do you get the inspiration for your designs?
It changes seasonally, but for the most part I get my ideas from wacky stuff I think up in my head, conversations with Dave, the passion of people, and social issues.
Do you have any tips for someone starting out in the fashion industry to make it to your level of success?
Definitely work in the industry. Experience is important and you have to believe in what you do. Stay consistent and never give up.
What do you enjoy most about the design process?
Production isn’t very enjoyable, but I like coming up with the inspiration and direction for the initial idea, then sketch and critique it all the way up until production.
Where can people go to see and buy your clothes?
You can check out both of my lines at www.Brianwoodonline.com .The main line is Brianwood and the T shirt line is Bwood. Locally Area 4zero1 is the exclusive carrier of both the Brian Wood and B Wood lines.
Thank you for your time Brian.
It was a pleasure, thank you
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Two weeks ago, I told you the best sports bars to watch the big game. This week, I want to let you know more about some great spots to sling back a few beers after (or during) a long week of school. Thursday night has always been college night and these top 5 bars offer salvation from the stress of annoying professors, back-to-back (to back) classes, 15 page term papers, and-dare I say it-FINAL EXAMS. If you’re 21 or older, take a break from studying and head to one of these fine drinking establishments and decompress for a bit. Just don’t party too hard and mess up that GPA you’ve worked hard to improve all semester. The summer is almost here, my dears.
5. One Pelham East-Newport, R.I.
Speaking of summertime and warm weather, making a trip to Newport and visiting the seaside clubs should definitely be on your agenda in the upcoming month. While I wouldn’t exactly call it a “College Bar,” I still think it’s worth it for you students to have a brew or two at One Pelham East. Perched on the corner of Pelham and Thames, you can hang out downstairs and check out a live band or go upstairs to ‘Studio 3’ for a more upscale ambiance. It would be stupid of me not to mention the fact that celebrities have been seen in the bar. Actors like Jim Carrey, Matthew McConaughey, and Claire Daines have been known to pop in The Pelham while filming movies in Newport. Running into famous people is always a good time.
4. Casey’s Grill and Bar-Wakefield, R.I.
I can’t mention partying in the summer without bringing up lovely Wakefield. Casey’s on 191 Old Tower Road is a great bar for University of Rhode Island students. Only about a ten-minute drove from the school, Casey’s serves food until midnight, so if you had class all day and work all night, you can still get something to eat and have some drinks with your friends before closing at 1a.m. They have a very extensive menu so if you’re thinking about asking that cute girl in your boring Biology class out to dinner, you can take her here. They also offer banquet services (with either breakfast foods or dinner entrees) if you’re thinking about booking a place for your graduation celebration.
3. Bradley Café-Providence, R.I.
I used to live at this bar located at 571 Admiral Street during my days as an undergrad at Rhode Island College, but I’m pretty sure Brad’s is typically known as a Providence College bar. Whatever the case may be, it was always a nice place to go and have a cold beer and chat with friends after my three-hour News Writing course every single Thursday night. Four years later, Thursdays are still hopping at Brad’s. Fridays usually are also busy since they have mixed drink specials on both nights. On Mondays and Tuesdays, they offer “Appy Hour” from 6-10 p.m. and serve half priced appetizers like nachos, chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, potato skins, fried raviolis, French fries, and chicken tenders. They open daily for lunch at noon, so stop in between classes.
2. RiRa-Providence, R.I.
For you Johnson and Wales’s students, RiRa has something to do every single night of the week. So, if you have a crazy schedule, there’s no excuse for not going out and having a good time at least once a week. On Monday’s, RiRi hosts ‘Yank Night’ and serves half-priced wings from 7-10 p.m.; Tuesdays are reserved for quiz night; Wednesdays get you half priced burgers; Thursdays serve up fish and chips for $8.95; Fridays and Saturdays provide live music and they sell Sam Light bottles for $3; and you can grab brunch Sundays and sick around and hear an Irish Session, or traditional Irish music played live. Karaoke begins shortly after.
1. Effin’s Last Resort-Smithfield, R.I.
Like RiRa, this pub is also Irish. It seems to have everything from booze and food, to live music and entertainment, including an Olympic sized pool as well as a volleyball court. Catering to Bryant students, needless to say, it has fun written all over it. If your classes don’t meet until later on in the day on Mondays, find a partner and spend Sunday nights playing ‘Effin Pong,’ commonly known as beer pong or Beirut. If drinking games aren’t your thing, sing your heart out on Tuesday nights for karaoke. On alternating Thursdays, Effin’s has live music by Jim Devlin and Johnny Silva, or mash-ups by DJ Janice. You can expect more music from various live bands on Fridays and Saturdays. If you’d rather have your graduation party outdoors than indoors at Casey’s, Effin’s is the place to do it. The best part about Effin’s is they want you to feel at home. Sometimes, that’s just what you need when you’re away studying hard at college.
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