Still Can't get motivated to Blog

Sorry my dear bloggers and bloggettes, I still cant get myself motivated to blog about my trip.  It is not that it was not blog worthy, it definitely was.  I think I am experiencing writers block?  In the mean time my dog sitter took the cutest picture of my Boopie.  Isn't he just the cutest thing?  Needless to say, she fell in love with him :O)

Mission Complete

I have so much to blog about however, I am suffering from time zone differential ughhh....I will say that I had a blast and took over a few hundred pictures.  Perhaps this weekend I will get it cracking baby!!  Places visited:  Barcelona, Paris, Naples, Pompei, Rome, Pisa, Nice, Toulon, St Tropez, Monaco, Lourvono, AMALFI Coast, Marseille.  I hit a lot of ground in such a short period of time.  Gonna take a few days to absorb it all.  Amazing trip!

Been A While

UPDATE:  I bought a good camera yayyy!!!!!!!

As you can tell, I'm not the best blogger out there LOL I'm lazy and blogging is time consuming.  Anyway, I leave on Friday @ 1:50 PM headed to Boston, then to Paris then to Barcelona.  I'm super uber excited.  I've lost 25 pounds in less than a month so I can have room for all of the foods that I am going to eat.  Why did I come upon an article that said binge eating is the worse thing a person can do and that the long term affects could effect you for the rest of your life.  OH WELL.  I gots ta do it!!!  Fresh pasta and wine!!!!  Ahh the life in Italy.  Maybe one day soon, I will live there? Hmmmm, we'll see :O)

Boopie is actually a Poodle

So I finally took the time to get my dog who happens to be a poodle an actual poodle cut.  How he got the nerve to be acting stuck up now? wtf?!? He is cute though huh LOL

my official itinerary

SEPTEMBER
** – TODAY WE DEPART FROM NY –JFK AIRPORT ON A 5:40PM FLIGHT THIS EVENING NONSTOP TO BARCELONA








September **: BARCELONA



Arrival at Barcelona airport this morning. We will be transferred to our First Class hotel, The Hotel Condes de Barcelona.The Hotel Condes de Barcelona occupies a prime location on Paseo de Gracia, in the heart of Modernist Barcelona and facing the famous Gaudi building La Pedrera.







The Hotel is built on two splendid nineteenth-century Modernist mansions, carefully restored to offer maximum comfort, the best in contemporary design and cutting-edge technology. A four-star hotel offering exquisite, personalized service in keeping with the warm atmosphere and avant-garde gastronomy.



http://www.condesdebarcelona.com/pag/hotel.php?idioma=en







This afternoon enjoy an escorted tour of one of Europe's most beautiful cities. See the ancient Gothic Quarter with its magnificent cathedral. Stop to admire the exterior of Gaudi's masterwork, the Basilica of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia). Continue to Montjuich Hill (site of the Olympic Stadium), to enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona and its port area.







September **: BARCELONA







Buffet breakfast. Pre-arranged transfer to Barcelona pier to board our cruise ship:








Nightly shows, casino action, dance club, piano bar and more make the nights all sizzle on board our floating resort.



Ship Highlights



Ice-skating rink



Rock-climbing wall



In-line skating



Royal Promenade (open 24 hours)



Johnny Rockets® '50s-style restaurant



Portofino Italian Restaurant



Themed bars and lounges



Casino RoyaleSM



Golf simulators



9-hole miniature golf course



Adventure Ocean® youth facilities



Day Spa and Fitness Center



Full-size basketball court







SEPTEMBER ** – TODAY IS A FULL DAY AT SEA TO ENJOY THE AMENITIES OF OUR CRUISE SHIP, THE POOLS JACUZZIS, SUN DECKS, AND SO MUCH MORE, PLUS PLANNED ACTIVITIES ORGANIZED BY THE CRUISE STAFF.







SEPTEMBER **







Naples is not only picturesque, it's also one of the world's greatest cultural centers, filled with extraordinary works of art and architecture in the classical Greek and Roman styles. Several interesting tours are available of the city itself and the fascinating places that lie just outside of Naples.







The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss







While you're in the area, you'll want to visit Pompeii, one of the most famous excavation sites in the world. A thriving city 1,900 years ago, it was devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. when 30 feet of volcanic ash and pumice stone covered it. Enter Pompeii by the sea gate and take a short walk to the hub of the city: the Forum. View the lavish temples and porticoes that lay beneath the ash for centuries.







Other Fun Things to Do







Take a boat trip to the entrancing Isle of Capri, and explore Capri Town. Wander its quaint streets and explore its shops and cafés. Discover the Gardens of Augustus, overlooking the famous Faraglioni of Capri and Marina Piccola.







Take a ride up the Amalfi Coast. With its ocean views and beautiful vistas, it's one of the most breathtaking stretches of road in the world.







Walk around and spend an afternoon getting to know the picturesque city of Naples.







Get a Taste of Local Flavor







Pizza was invented in Naples, and there are plenty of authentic pizzerias to choose from. Try mozzarella and tomato served with fresh basil and liberally doused in olive oil as a starter. Spigola (sea bass) is the most popular fish here, and you'll find it served steamed and baked. For dessert, try sfogliatella, a delicious clam-shaped Neapolitan pastry.







September **



Civitavecchia is the gateway to all the magnificence of the ancient city of Rome. Whether it's the Forum, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon or St. Peter's Basilica that sparks your interest and intellect, Rome is home to a lifetime's worth of historical, architectural and spiritual sites. Depending on traffic, the drive from Civitavecchia to Rome takes approximately an hour and a half.







Once the center of the ancient world from which emperors ruled over nearly all of western civilization for hundreds of years, Rome is still considered by many to reign over all other European destinations. Here you can breathe the air once breathed by great Roman gladiators in the ancient halls of the Coliseum. Gaze upon the very ceilings Michelangelo painted at the Sistine Chapel. Or visit a monument to both size and faith, St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church ever built







You Don't Want to Miss







Experience the history of Rome as you wander around the Coliseum and Roman Forum.







Explore the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain and other wonders of this ancient city. Picture the gladiators and their chariots on an interior tour of the Coliseum. Bask in the glory of Vatican City, with an inside look at St. Peter's Square, St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the magnificent Sistine Chapel.







Other Fun Things to Do







Explore the amazing history and culture of Rome. Stop at the Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, a Roman sacrificial altar enclosed in a screen of Parian marble.







Visit the Vatican Museum, where you can walk through the many rooms that house the largest art collection in the world.



Travel through magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world.







View the Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, the ceiling of which was painted by Michelangelo.







Toss a coin in the famous Trevi Fountain - a way to ensure that you'll always return to Rome.







Get a Taste of Local Flavor



There are many varieties of pasta available with a wide range of sauces. Bucatini all'Amatricana, a thick spaghetti in a tangy tomato and bacon sauce, is one example associated with Rome. Osso Bucco, also popular, is a casserole of veal shin flavored with garlic, tomatoes and wine. For dessert, try ricotta cake, a form of cheesecake, or Zuppa Inglese, a liqueur-soaked sponge cake covered with custard, similar to English trifle.







SEPTEMBER **



Livorno, in the Tuscan region of Italy, is ideally located for exploring some of the most beautiful cities in Italy, including Florence and Pisa. Florence is most noted as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Highlights include impressive piazzas and an incomparable 15th-century skyline - sure to offer charm and an unforgettable experience to any visitor.







Occupying both banks of the Arno River and situated at the foot of the Apennine Mountains, is Florence. Founded by Julius Caesar himself, Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. History and art shake hands in this picturesque land where masterpieces like Michelangelo's David can be seen in the city's many museums, churches and galleries







The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss







When you're in the area, you'll definitely want to explore Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Start by visiting the church of Santa Croce, known as Italy's Westminster Abbey because of the Italian monarchy buried there. View the 14th-century interior and marvel at one of the finest examples of Florentine Gothic decoration. Stop at the Piazza del Duomo in Florence, where the cathedral, bell tower and baptistery share the same square. Then stop in the Piazza della Signoria, the city's largest square, and gaze upon a copy of Michelangelo's David and the Loggia dei Lanzi.







Other Fun Things to Do







Shop for souvenirs at the famed Ponte Vecchio in Florence.







Explore the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, home to works by Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens.



Visit the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and discover one of the world's most amazing sights - the Campanile, or Leaning Tower. Learn the fascinating details about this famous bell tower.







Take a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, enjoying its soft, rounded hills, the medieval architecture of its villages and the silver green of the olive trees mingling with the dark-green of the cypress trees. Stop in a local winery to sample some of its delicious product.







Get a Taste of Local Flavor







Every area of Italy is known for its unique cuisine and pasta dishes. Try fazzoletti, pasta filled with ricotta cheese and spinach. Other Tuscan specialties are: ribollita, a variation on minestrone; papardelle, broad noodles; stracotto, a beef stew with beans; and bistecca alla fiorentina, a charcoal-grilled T-bone steak marinated in olive oil and black pepper







SEPTEMBER **



Villefranche is your gateway to the one-of-a-kind French Riviera, home to Monte Carlo, Cannes and Nice.







Shaded by jagged mountains touching deep blue shores, Villefrancheoffers sunny beaches, sophisticated resort cities, quaint red-roofedvillages and spectacular views.







Situated at the foot of the Alps is the French Riviera city of Nice. Once you arrive here, it will be clear why this jewel of the French Riviera is home to some of the world's most luxurious hotels and terraced cafés. Stroll along the ultra-famous Promenade des Anglais or see masterpieces by Matisse, Renoir, Monet and Chagall in one of Nice's many museums. For a true taste of Nice, sample the local favorites, including onion, anchovy and olive tarts known as pissaladières, along with succulent little black olives known as caillettes. If your thing is lounging on gorgeous beaches, you will love our visit to Nice.







The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss







While Villefranche is lovely, it's truly remarkable for what surrounds it. While you're there, visit some of its better-known neighbors: Cannes, Nice and Monte Carlo. These jet-setters' retreats are as remarkable for their beautiful beaches as the mansions and boutiques that surround them.







Other Fun Things to Do







See the Rock of Monaco, and travel on foot through the Old Quarter.



Explore the vaulted passageways and beautiful façade of Monaco's Prince's Palace and the Palace Square.



Visit the 19th-century Monaco Cathedral, final resting place of the Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly. Stop at Place du Casino in Monte Carlo to explore this renowned landmark.



Go shopping in Old Town in Nice, where you'll find interesting shops and charming sidewalk cafés.



Drive down the Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes, famous for its exclusive hotels and designer boutiques.







Get a Taste of Local Flavor



Sample local favorites, including onion, anchovy and olive tarts known as pissaladières. Salad Nicoise is also popular here, combining tuna, hard-boiled egg, green beans and anchovies. Vegetarians might prefer ratatouille, a tomato-based dish with onions, eggplant, zucchini and subtle spices.







SEPTEMBER **



Ships, ships and more ships. Toulon is France's exciting naval epicenter. Bobbing sailboats dot its busy harbor. On land you'll find tons of maritime museums, ancient fortresses and a fair share of sailors. And in true French fashion you'll also find plenty of stylish spots for shopping and lunching. But what really makes this seaport so special is its proximity to glitzy Saint-Tropez and the Côte d'Azur.







The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss



If you're looking for the perfect photo op, take a cable car to the peak of Mont Faron. After you've soaked up the scenery, visit the Mémorial du Débarquement en Provence, a museum that houses an interesting collection of World War II memorabilia.







Other Fun Things to Do



Catch some Mediterranean sunshine at Plage du Morillon - the seaport's most popular beach.



Pop into the Musée de Toulon and ogle its vast collection of Provençal, Italian and religious masterpieces from the 16th century to the present.



Take a boat tour around the harbor.



Shopping For Bargains



There are plenty of places to shop for designer fashions, fine jewelry and French perfume. You'll even find a three-story mall that has just about everything, including a supermarket and a movie theater.



Get A Taste Of Local Flavors







Pull up a chair at a charming terrace café and make sure to sample the savory Mediterranean specialties.







SEPTEMBER ** – WE ARRIVE BACK IN BARCELONA AND ARE TRANSFERRED TO THE AIRPORT FOR OUR NONSTOP DELTA AIRLINES FLIGHT BACK TO JFK, ARRIVING 2:15PM

Nice little vacay to the beach this weekend.

had a great time this weekend, had some of the most awesome food at some beachside restaurant.  all fresh seafood, man it was a great time.  my view... i think im going to begin a "my view" photo album hmmmm....

It's Official!!!!!

I made my purchase today, it's official.  The itinerary below will be my destination!! I am soooooo excited!!! I get to experience all of Italy, South of France and Barcelona!! How fly is that!!! I will take lotsssss of pictures and post for sure.  I mean the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Barcelona, France oh come on LOL  I bought the tickets so there is no turning back!! YES!!!

Searching.....Searching....Searching.....

Ok I am still looking for getting the most out of whatever Itinerary for Euro Trip 2010.  I have found an interesting group to possibly travel with.  This trip is looking like a winner. It's hittiing all the spots that I want to check out and activities. 

I keep getting sidetracked because as I am doing my research, I see so many other beautiful sites that are great places to see.  ie Egypt, Thailand, Switzerland, Bang cock LOL I mean Bangkok, Prague, Budapest, Vietman, just to mention a few.  I decided to keep in my the main places that I initially wanted to venture out to see and perhaps put the other points of interest on my future "to do" list. 

The places still remain, Rome Italy, AMALFI Coast, South of France and Barcelona Spain.  I have found a way  to be able to hit up all these spots very reasonably.  So far my trip consists of flying into Barcelona, Voyager of the Seas cruise to Italy, well wait let me post the map:

This actually looks like everything I want in a vacation.  We shall see!!

Lena the Farmer?

Yes, it's hot as hades and I am headed to someone's farm down in south georgia.  That should be fun!  I hope it's not similar to picking cotton LOL or else you can just drop me off at the farmers market. 

Let it be known that Lena will try anything once, maybe twice. I don't speak on anything that I haven't done, And yes while in NoPlace, Mississippi, (this one time), I saw some stuff out in a field and it dawned on me that it was ummmm COTTON!  I was like d*mn cotton really grows? LOL  After I picked this much (see photos above), I was tired as the dickens. Yes, the dickens!  I couldn't imagine having to actually do it or get my ass beat LOL gone beat me NOW because I am not doing this slave ish LOL and for chitterlings??? Pshhh please, I'll take "beating" for $500 Chuck!

As my friends and I were out in the field having a moment of disbelief, suddenly there was a solemn moment.  It began to rain.  It was like while we were out there laughing and being facetious, the souls of our ancestors were awaken and it began to pour the tears of my ancestors.  We all sort of stopped and gave a unrehearsed moment of silence and it was just a deep moment.  I can't describe it better than that.  Whew! I had a moment there.  Farming sparked that emotion, well that and I am a Cancer.  Anywho.

On my way a farming bloggers and bloggettes, pray for ya girl!! Yee hawww (I think thats what I say) LOL or is that Cowboying?

ciao

Destination Europe

Well my bloggers and bloggettes LOL I have made up my mind, Rome Italy will be my destination this year.  Eurorail around Italy, France and a few other points of interest.  My travel agent is hooking me up with huge layovers in Paris and Moscow (I'm hoping she swings Barcelona instead of Moscow? ).  My tentative dates are Sep 3-12, 2010.  But subject to change due to a couple of events that I am part of, we shall see. 

I'm still trying to decide if I want to play tourist by staying in some ritzy hotel OR if I want to rough it by finding some hostel to kick it in LOL.  After the movie "Hostel" hmmmmm I dunno.  Having lived in 3rd world countries, it's pretty hard to scare me but that movie was something else LOL  at the same time it sounds very exciting.

I guess I just have to do this alone...

For years I have been trying to get the people that I know to do a "girlfriend" or "family" trip abroad (ie Europe).  Unfortunately, to no avail.  Perhaps it is only my desire to travel and see other things.  I think that I have decided that I have to accept the fact that travelling and/or back packing across Europe will be my solo journey. 

It kind of disappoints me that people that I know don't want to see anything more or experience anything more than what's inside their box.  Why have friends that you really have nothing in common with?  Am I being too hard on em?  My frustration  is of them wanting me to be part of their regular life versus them trying to be part of who I am?  My motto:  In order to grow, sometimes have to let go. 

I'm on my soap box this morning but point blank--we have nothing in common.  I would not choose to be in an unfullfilling relationship so why would I choose to remain in unfullfilling friendships?

Ok now that I have gotten those thoughts out of the way, let me tell you I have been studying my future places of interest.  I am planning to hit up Rome (and AMALFI Coast), Paris, Barcelona and if I manage to hustle up an unintended location--then so be it!!!

Lights On!

OooOooooh how about Chef-packing across Europe?!  I do still have my Barcelona chef hook up, considering Mandarin Oriental Barcelona is where I am suppose to be working as we speak.  Again, I guess it isn't where God wants me to be right now.  He gives us the desires of our hearts so HE must know and perhaps He is moving people, places and things to make it happen, to make it happen comfortably. 

Ok let me stop googling

Back Packing Across Europe?

I have this desire that just won't go away.  I think it was sparked by my years in the Air Force way back when.  Travelling.

Backpacking across Europe for a few weeks is something in my future.  It was something that I was already suppose to have done.  I thought this or that would have occurred by now but it hasn't.  I guess it isn't what God wants me to do just yet. 

I refuse to let my overwhelming desire to travel out weigh common sense.  I'm not stupid but the desire just gets stronger every day.  Maybe I will go and it not be everything that I want it to be, then again maybe I will go and it will be everything I want it to be.  I still have to go just to see.

I don't know what makes me think that whatever it is that I am searching for, I will find in Europe.   I knew I shouldn't have Googled:  Backpacking across Europe.  I found popular backpacker destinations and think that this would probably be my route.  Add Italy and Spain to this and it would be a total thumbsup!!

 The Big Three: England, France, and Germany are three of the biggest countries in Europe and are probably the most popular tourist destinations on the continent. Many backpackers, especially those from the states, start their journey in London. A few days in the huge British city and a backpacker can hop a train across the “Chunnel” and wind up in Paris before they know it. With the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, and more, there are plenty of things to see in Paris, and there are a ton of hostels and cheap hotels for any traveler's budget. Next, backpackers can either head North for the Benelux trip, Southeast to Switzerland, or head South to check out the warmth of Southern France. Many travelers also take the time to head into Germany, stopping in Frankfurt before visiting the beautiful capital Berlin, a favorite among backpackers and young travelers.

the saga will continue......

After the love has gone LOL

Ok yesterday was a fluke, today is a new day.  I'm THINKING about detoxing w/Watermelon Cucumber Smoothie?  Is that really detoxing?  Hmmmmm, well we'll call it that anyway.  Wanted to share the following recipe.  I haven't tried it yet, but planning to this evening. 

Watermelon Cucumber Smoothie

2 cups of watermelon chunks

1/2 cucumber, unpeeled and cut into chunks

.5 tsp ginger

juice of 1/2 grapefruit

juice of 1/2 lime

garnish with a mint leaf

handful of ice



Combine all ingredients in a blender, and blend 'til smooth.



Serves 2

Why do I do these things to myself???

So as a last ditched effort to entertainment I decided to take my mom to the Dekalb Farmers Market, why why why why...someone saveeeeeeeeeee me from myself LOL I will not confirm or deny any partaking of the pastry shop... **burp**

Tour Martin Luther King Jr Memorial

Out of the Kitchen.....

I can't believe that I have lived in Atlanta for 16 years and am just now getting to the Martin Luther King Jr Historical Compound.  I actually travel the Auburn Ave area on some occasions but never even took the time to visit. 

My mom came to visit for the 4th weekend and I finally took the time to show respect to The King of Civil Rights.  I must say that I was truly inspired and honored. 

I felt such an overwhelming serenity.  And the thought of all the people that have stood in the very spot that I stood sent chills through my spine. 

Most of all, I thought of our President, our first African American President having stood at that very spot honoring Mr King.  Why had it took me so long to show my respects?  Hmmmm....interesting. 

My mother and I truly enjoyed ourselves.  That Eternal Flame was just beautiful.  I am going to have to make another trip during a less busy time.  Thank you Mr King.

Perfect Example

I have the perfect example.  A co-worker gave me these fresh veggies today.  She picked them from her garden.  Don't they look DELISH?  No chemicals, no nothing.  Just pure delightful veggies.  I am actually preparing some of the squash now.  Steamed squash, fresh ground pepper and a lil thyme, hmph hmph hmph.  Orgasmic! LOL Oops I mean organic *cheese*

Someone pleaseeeeeee send me a garden FedEx LOL

Fresh? Organic? Raw?

So I am riding around at lunch time today, I found myself looking for fresh food.  Being a chef that uses 90 % fresh ingredients,  I am finding that the thoughts of eating processed and/or manufactured foods is nauseating. 

Ah ha moment?  Yes, indeed.  More and more nothing is more satisfying than fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses etc. 

What I had the desire for today:  Sauteed kale and a nice organic salad. Yum!  What I ended up with was some disgusting Burrito from Taco Bell.  This has GOTS to stop!!!! LOL

As I am driving back to the jay oh bee, it dawned on me that I am on the verge of transitioning to fresh, organic and seriously contemplating "raw". 

I would so love to have a garden that I could go fetch the day's dinner from.  Something to ponder.

Chopped - Can You Make The Cut?

Food Network is seeking the next round of skilled chefs to compete on one of the hottest cooking competition shows. Can you create a $10,000 meal out of our mystery baskets?

Seeking dynamic, outgoing, experienced chefs, Men and Women, any ethnicity and cooking specialty are encouraged to apply. To submit, please complete the application below and attach a current photo and culinary resume to be considered.

http://www.choppedcasting.com/


Thank you.

Oprah's Search - Your Own Show - Casting Call

Do You Have What It Takes?


Oprah and reality TV super producer Mark Burnett (SurvivorTM & The ApprenticeTM) are joining forces in search of the next big TV star. Do you have a big personality and a big dream for yourself? This could be your BIG BREAK - the chance of a lifetime to host your own TALK show...on OWN. If you think you have "IT" - upload your video audition or go to an open casting call. You can also help decide who wins - keep coming back right here to view auditions and vote for your favorites.
 
 
Open casting calls for Your OWN Show will be held at the following Kohl's stores:


http://myown.oprah.com/audition/index.html

Will Oprah Winfrey be at any of the casting calls? No.


Can I get to Kohl's earlier than 8am? Yes. For the Atlanta casting call, wristbands will be distributed between 6am-12pm. Everyone with a wristband will be seen. Please check the weather, it will be hot so dress accordingly. No overnight camping will be permitted the night before the casting call.


Will the casting call be cancelled if it's raining? No. The casting calls will be held, rain or shine.

Cooking Light Casting Call

For more information:

http://www.cookinglight.com/marketplace/casting-call-00412000067293/

There is absolutely so much that I need to blog about ugghhhh. I'm finding that it may almost be personal assistant/manager time.  Hmmmmm.  Ok I'm just ranting for no reason at all.  Have a wonderful Wednesday lovelies!


XOXO

Real Men Cook Atlanta 2010

I had a wonderful time today at Real Men Cook Atlanta 2010.  Ruben Studdard and Marcus Miller had awesome perfomances!!! Victoria Rowell was looking lovely as ever.  Yes my son, Jordan went with me with no attitude today yay for Jordan!!

Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers!

Enjoy YOUR Day!!


xoxo

New Camera

My morning started off very trying but it will get better because I get to see my son this weekend yayyyyy and little does he know that it's time to put in work. I have about 5 events coming up this summer, the biggest being "The Taste of the World" where I finally get the chance to meet Archbishop Desmond Tutu!!!

just wanted to add that I had a wonderful time at the Atlanta Business League Luncheon and wish I had a better camera to take the pictures of Atlanta's Finest CEOs and politicians.

So, in humor, of course LOL if anyone wanted to sponsor ya girl one of those $10,000 dollar nice cameras, I would be ever so greatful!! I am planning to take it to the next level this year and need one.....kthanksbye hahaha

Inaugural Celebrity Cook-Off Atlanta

Sunday, May 16, 2010, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
at the Adamsville Recreation Center





Why Southwest Celebrity Cook-Off?
Over the past six years, ABCP has facilitated enrichment programs and services by hosting monthly community meetings, health fairs and public forums.

ABCP is committed to developing new initiatives and partnerships which will provide relevant programming that meets the needs of children and families. With childhood obesity on the rise, the Center for Disease Control has reported that the Adamsville distinct has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in Atlanta. The challenges of childhood obesity in our community present health issues that are astounding with significant increases in heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, asthma and certain types of cancer.

The ABCP has worked hard to usher in a greater understanding of how the disparities that poor and inaccessible healthcare, quality food choices, healthier lifestyle options, and factual information have affected the Adamsville community.

For this reason, one of ABCP’s 2010 strategic initiatives is the creation of the Inaugural Southwest Atlanta Celebrity Cook-Off. This one-day community event will showcase trained chefs talking about the importance of healthy lifestyles – eating, exercising and health prevention while conducting educational cooking demonstrations. Cooks from around the Atlanta area will enter into a contest cooking their best kept secrets. Through collaborative partnerships with highly trained chefs, the arts community, physical fitness and education partners, motivational speakers, private companies, public agencies, and community partners, the event is a big step in taking ownership for building a stronger, healthier and more vibrant community. Corporate and community sponsored activities include: The Home Depot/Chick fil-A Kids Zone, Linda Gail Fashion – Couture for Girls and a Relax & Rejuvenate Spa Lounge.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Main Stage: Cooking Stage & Celebrity Showcase Area: There will be a live "taped for TV and Internet" Cooking Demonstration featuring Chef Marvin Woods and guest appearances by notable Chefs and Celebrities. This area will feature a Celebrity Showcase and autograph signings and photograph opportunities. You don't want to miss this exclusive experience to rub shoulders with the Who's Who of Atlanta.
Restaurant Row Tasting: This area is reserved for Atlanta’s restaurant chains. There will be premiere food samplings and opportunities to receive give-aways through the event. So get your taste buds really to experience a wide variety of foods from casual and fine dining. Do miss out no this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Cook- Off Row: This will showcase the best kept secrets from some of the most famous kitchens around Atlanta. Our cooks are steaming, grilling, sautéing and adding all the right spices and sauces for an unforgettable extravaganza. You be the Judge. Each attendee will have the opportunity to taste and cast their vote on “Who will be the next SW Atlanta Top Chef?”

Entertainment Stage: The roof will be on fire at the Adamsville Recreation Center! You are sure to enjoy the variety of talent showcase center stage of the event. You will be entertained by an electrifying Jazz Band featuring National and Local Artist. The Axam Dance Troupe will give us a foot stomping performance guaranteed to make you move your body. Hold Up… Wait A Minute… Linda Gail and the Couture Fashion Show will help the parents to reach the full potential in Kid’s Fashion. These young ladies and gents are ready to walk the run way in style. And DJ Kix will make sure there is a never a dull moment in the show.

Home Depot/Chick Fil-a Kids Zone: The kid’s area will be filled with interactive games and activities for the entire family to enjoy. We want all attendees to feel empowered and educated to have a fulfilling life. This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity for your kids to learn special skills they will remember and use throughout adulthood. They will learn how to make healthy kid treats, make souvenir items like chef hats and pot-holders and be exhausted with fun and games. Please make certain to purchase your Kids Zone tickets so your kids can have access to all the VIP fun planned for them. Kids Zone tickets are reasonably priced at $7 per child. Price includes ticket, food and one souvenir item.

Health Screenings: It is important that you know your status! Please be sure to get your health screened for cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, mammograms & HIV/AIDS during our event. The best measures are preventative measures!

Sweet Aisle: This lane will feature some of Atlanta Top Boutiques and Hotels Culinary skills to satisfy that sweet tooth. They will show us how to make some tasty, delicious, and scrumptious desserts. “Treat” yourself to this experience.
Relax and Rejuvenate Spa Lounge: This island is dedicated to anyone who wants to upgrade themselves to royal treatment at an affordable price. For only $10.00 more you will be treated to a wine tasting hosted by Wine Shop At Home, array of cheeses and mouth watering fruit provided by Edible Arrangements. This area will be a virtual spa hosted by massage professionals and area spa owners. Pamper yourself and pay a little extra! It’s for a good cause.

33rd Annual 2010 Atlanta Jazz Festival

All About the Atlanta Jazz Festival





City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs
Harris Tower
233 Peachtree Street, NE
Suite 1700
Atlanta, GA 30303

The 33rd Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival is regarded as one of the Country’s largest FREE jazz festivals. It is an annual musical showcase, celebrates jazz legends and up-and-coming jazz greats in venues throughout metropolitan Atlanta during the entire month of May. Culminating during Memorial Day weekend, May 29th and 30th, this year’s 2-day festival will feature show-stopping performances at Piedmont Park.

According to former Mayor Shirley Franklin “The festival was formed to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our city and has blossomed into a celebration of our nation’s contribution to human expression. Music heals. It reaches deep within the human soul and soothes and nourishes the empty hearted and cultivates the spirit of community that surges through the City of Atlanta. The Atlanta Jazz Festival is one of the city’s proudest traditions.”

The Festival is produced by the City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs, and it is FREE and open to the public.

Mission
It is the mission of the Atlanta Jazz Festival to expose and entertain a diverse audience of Jazz aficionados, young Jazz enthusiasts and aspiring musicians to the rich heritage and variety of Jazz as an authentic form of traditional music.

Vision
The Atlanta Jazz Festival provides the City with an opportunity:

■To unify Atlanta’s diverse population
■To celebrate Atlanta’s heritage
■to promote tourism

For more info: http://atlantafestivals.com/

Go Red For Women

About the Movement

Go Red For Women celebrates the energy, passion and power we have as women to band together to wipe out heart disease and stroke.

Learn the Basics

We're fighting heart disease and saving women's lives.

What is Go Red For Women?

In 2004, the American Heart Association (AHA) faced a challenge. Cardiovascular disease claimed the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year, yet women were not paying attention. In fact, many even dismissed it as an “older man’s disease.” To dispel the myths and raise awareness of heart disease as the number one killer of women, the American Heart Association created Go Red For Women – a passionate, emotional, social initiative designed to empower women to take charge of their heart health.

What is the goal of Go Red For Women?

Go Red For Women encourages awareness of the issue of women and heart disease, and also action to save more lives. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power women have to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them the tools they need to lead a heart healthy life.



In 2010, the American Heart Association set a strategic goal of reducing death and disability from cardiovascular disease and strokes by 20% while improving the cardiovascular health of all Americans by 20% by the year 2020.

Why is the red dress the symbol of women and heart disease?

In 2003, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), the American Heart Association and other organizations committed to women’s health joined together to raise awareness of women and heart disease. The NHLBI introduced the red dress as a national symbol for women and heart disease awareness and the American Heart Association adopted this symbol to create synergy among all organizations committed to fighting this cause.



By working together to advance this important cause, the American Heart Association, NHLBI, and other women’s health groups will have a greater impact than any one group could have alone.



Be sure to register to get your red dress pin.

Why do Go Red For Women and other red dress campaigns target women instead of men and women?

In the past, heart disease and heart attack have been predominantly associated with men. Historically, men have been the subjects of the research done to understand heart disease and stroke, which has been the basis for treatment guidelines and programs. This led to an oversimplified, distorted view of heart disease and risk, which has worked to the detriment of women.



Because women have been largely ignored as a specific group, their awareness of their risk of this often-preventable disease has suffered. Only 55 percent of women realize heart disease is their No. 1 killer and less than half know what are considered healthy levels for cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol. The Go Red For Women movement works to make sure women know they are at risk so they can take action to protect their health.

How does the American Heart Association use funds raised from Go Red For Women activities?

The American Heart Association uses all revenues from local and National Go Red For Women activities to support awareness, research, education and community programs to benefit women.



These funds allow us to help women by offering educational programs, advancing women’s understanding about their risk for heart disease and providing tools and motivation to help women reduce their risk to protect their health. For example, the Go Red Heart CheckUp has engaged over 2 million women to learn their risk of heart disease. Based on our own research, a woman who “Goes Red” follows an exercise routine, eats healthier diet, visits her doctor for important tests and influences others by talking about heart health. (Source: Go Red For Women Database Survey, fall 2007)



Funds raised by Go Red For Women activities also support research to discover scientific knowledge about heart health. We turn this science into materials and tools that healthcare providers and decision- makers can use to help women. Scientific guidelines on women and healthcare providers receive the most up-to-date strategies and treatments tailored to a woman’s individual risk. Toolkits, pocket versions of guidelines for women, and special reports, and continuing medical education give healthcare providers the tools to ensure that women are being treated according to the guidelines. Through our national sponsor, Merck & Co., over 200,000 healthcare provider offices have received Go Red For Women educational tools to use with patients.



We value the trust placed in us by our donors, supporters, and general public. We make the association’s finance as transparent as possible. In fact, the American Heart Association has consistently met the high standards of the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance (WGA), the premier organization for evaluating charitable organizations.



How do corporate sponsorships help support Go Red For Women?

Financial support from corporations helps fund the American Heart Association programs and initiatives to advance the mission to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The American Heart Association is always seeking ways to increase communication with the public and to create tools and resources to help them manage and prevent heart disease.



Sponsorship dollars allow us to improve our educational resources like our Web site and other materials in order to deliver the information in a way that men, women and children find useful. All corporate relationships must comply with the association's corporate relations policies and receive approval from two committees representing executive staff and volunteers. Compliance is required in areas such as sponsors’ commercial messages, advertising and brand messages so that no endorsement of a company product is implied.



Funds donated to Go Red For Women have impacted women across the nation.



Over 2 million women have learned their personal risk of developing heart disease by taking the Go Red Heart CheckUp
Over 200,000 healthcare provider offices have received critical patient information on women and heart disease
Over 900,000 women have joined the fight. Women who join Go Red For Women receive important information that allows them to take action to improve their health:


Women involved in Go Red For Women eat a healthy diet

Go Red women are more likely to follow their doctors’ advice – from losing weight to taking medications.
91% of women involved in Go Red For Women visited their doctor in the last 12 months (compared to 73% of all U.S. women)
64% follow a regular exercise routine
84% have talked to friends about their heart health
90% have had their blood pressure checked in the last year
75% have had their cholesterol checked in the last year

Metropolitan Cooking and Entertainment Show - Atlanta GA

I had a wonderful time at the Metropolitan Cooking and Entertainment Show. And YES! I finally had the opportunity to be in the same room as my favorite ever--Bobby Flay!!! How awesome of an experience. I also got the opportunity to promote myself and my company woot woot!! I've been hustling out there really hard this year. I've come to the conclusion that all of my cameras suck LOL I need a better cam phooey!! Here are a few of the pics:

Internationa Medical Volunteerism Conference - Atlanta - Apr 16-18, 2010

Emory IMVC Flyer

Chefs for the Cause Love is Food Benefit for Haiti - Atlanta GA Mar 27, 2010

Top Chef Ron Duprat Join Forces with WSB-TV and Chef G. Eric Centeno To Host “Food is Love” To Benefit Haitian Relief Efforts

Atlanta, GA, March 11, 2010 – Chef G. Eric Centeno, in coordination with WSB-TV, will host itsannual Chefs For The Cause Food is Love, a cooking event benefiting the Yéle Haiti EarthquakeFund, on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 7pm to 10pm located at Legends Banquet & SpecialEvent Center, 181 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd., SW Atlanta, GA. Admission fee is $75 perperson.

WSB-TV and Executive Chef of the World Trade Center Atlanta, Chef G. Eric Centeno will bejoined by Top Chef Ron Duprat, Chef Julio Viera, Chef Richard Hurst and more than twenty localchefs and participating restaurants for an evening of specialty food samplings and liveentertainment by International Haitian Jazz Artist "GINOU" and Atlanta’s own Ameribbean Bandby Henry Hans Jr., “The Creoles”. Proceeds will benefit the Yéle Haiti Earthquake Fund.

Approximately 500 guests are expected to attend and will enjoy dishes prepared by Chef G. EricCenteno, Executive Chef of the World Trade Center Atlanta and chefs from participatingrestaurants. Sponsors will include Legends Banquet & Special Event Center, Georgia Restaurant Association, The Haitian Alliance, Alliance Française d’Atlanta, King & Spalding, Barry Callebaut,Le Cordon Bleu, Romulus Management Group, Community partners and media partnersinclude WSB-TV, Kiss 104.1, 95.5 the BEAT, Métisse Media Productions and The People Brokers PR Agency. For sponsorship opportunities contact 678-542-5757. Tickets must be purchased inadvance by going to the website http://www.chefsforthecause.org/index.html

ABOUT CHEFS FOR THE CAUSE: Chefs for the Cause is an alliance of culinary professionals and educators working to providenutrition education, hunger relief, and emergency and humanitarian aid to reduce hunger acrossthe world.

ABOUT YELE HAITI FOUNDATION. Yéle Haiti is a foundation started by Grammy-Award winning musician, producer and socialentrepreneur Wyclef Jean that is changing lives in Haiti. Yéle Haiti has partnered with AirlineAmbassadors to collect, airlift and deliver more than 500,000 lbs of medical and disaster reliefsupplies to earthquake victims in Haiti. Yéle Haiti has also partnered with Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) to distribute a “shelter package” to the earthquake victims in theport city of Jacmel. While not in the news as much as Port-au-Prince, Jacmel, Petit-Goâve, andLéogâne have been heavily damaged with more than half of all buildings having collapsed. Theshelter package includes tents, water purification tablets, canteens, blankets, gloves and personalitems.

ABOUT G. ERIC CENTENO Executive Chef G. Eric Centeno’s creativity and culinary skills have brought him internationalrecognition. His artistic style and his infectious passion for food have thrilled the palates ofpresidents, kings, queens and famous personalities from around the world.With more than 25 years of experience, he orchestrates culinary feats, including superb banquetsserved in luxurious surroundings with undeniable panache.Raised in a Puerto Rican household in Bronx, NY, he was exposed to culturally diversesurroundings. Chef G. Eric began cooking at his mother’s side at an early age and used thisupbringing to develop a love for the culinary arts. He received formal training from Baltimore International Culinary and worked alongside worldrenowned chefs including Tom Chin, Christian Fischer, Joel Antunes, and the Celebrity Chefs Martin Yan and Wolfgang Puck.

Adapting his training and technique in the creative inquisitive manner of a master and visionary, Chef G. Eric was sought and employed by the nation’s most upscale hotels, restaurants and for thelast ten years, the World Trade Center Atlanta, where he combines his international cuisine tocreate New American World Cuisine, a culinary masterpiece.Besides his strong passion for food, Chef G. Eric also shares the desire to improve today's healthstandards by preparing heart-healthy meals. Earning the title as a Certified Health and NutritionCounselor from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (which is affiliated with Columbia University),he studied under leading medical doctors from various countries and with dietary-conscious chefs. Now standing by his “Food is love; Eat well!” motto, Chef G. Eric not only believes flavor does nothave to be compromised in order to be healthy, he holds seminars and speaking engagements tofurther encourage people of all ages to enjoy food that is beneficial to their vitality.

ABOUT RON DUPRATR Chef Ron is a well-seasoned executive Chef, having cooked for varying establishments such as the Pelican Bay Foundation and the Montauk Yacht Club. He has cemented himself as an expert inexotic flavors—often incorporating his own Haitian Creole influences with French-Asian Fusioncuisine. Ron always likes to keep vanilla bean, saffron, truffles, Spanish olive oil and chocolate onhand, and his favorite thing to make is his signature flourless chocolate cake. Most recently was acontestant on Bravo TV’s Top Chef Season 6.

ABOUT LEGENDS BANQUET & SPECIAL EVENT CENTER Legends is a unique historic building ideal for intimate wedding ceremonies and elegantreceptions and celebrations. With cathedral ceilings in the main ballroom, it features a handpainted dome by a popular local Atlanta artist. From the most elegant, dramatic formal affair to anintimate, casual gathering, Legends award winning banquet team will exceed your expectations.

ABOUT WSB-TVChannel 2, WSB-TV is a Cox Television station within the Cox Media group. Cox Media Group,Inc., a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Cox Enterprises, is an integrated broadcasting, publishing anddigital media company that includes the national advertising rep firms of Cox Reps. The companyoperations include 15 broadcast television stations and 1 local cable channel, 86 radio stations,four metro newspapers and more than a dozen non-daily publications, and more than 100 digitalservices.

ABOUT KISS 104.1 and 95.5 The BeatKISS 104.1, Atlanta’s Old School R&B Station and 95.5 The BEAT Atlanta’s New Number one forHip Hop is owned and operated by Cox Media Group, Inc. Both stations provide sales andmarketing services to the greater Atlanta Metropolitan market through on-air, online and eventmarketing solutions.

for more info: http://www.chefsforthecause.org/index.html
MEDIA CONTACT:Kisha Cameron The People Brokers PR Agencykisha@thepeoplebrokers.com404.886.7348



Well I had an awesome time at the benefit. Met some wonderful people. Here are a few pics that I took at the event held in Atlanta, Saturday, March 27, 2010.




www.chefsforthecause.org

Unhealthiest Foods At The Mall

Unhealthiest Foods At The MallBy David Zinczenko, with Matt Goulding - Posted on Mon, Mar 22, 2010, 1:13 am PDT

Eat This, Not That
by David Zinczenko, with Matt Goulding a Yahoo! Health Expert for Nutrition
Visit Nutrition Home »


Unhealthiest Foods At The MallUnhealthiest Chicken Dishes in America (and What to Eat Instead!)The Unhealthiest Salads in America

A few weeks ago, I ran into a colleague who’d been following my health and diet tips on Twitter. She loved them, she said, and she’d even dropped several pounds by adopting some of my secrets. But she wanted some advice about a fast-growing problem: her teenage daughter’s weight.

“We cook healthy at home, but like most teenagers, she eats a lot of her meals when she’s out with friends,” my colleague said. “Out at the mall.”

Ouch! No three words are as clear a prelude to weight troubles as “at the mall” (except maybe “supersize it, please”). America’s malls are hothouse factories of weight-gain triggers: The smell of cinnamon buns wafting through the air, the unrelenting signage for food and drink, and the endemic stress of dealing with crowds and money. To top it off, when you’re at the mall, you’re already spending—so what’s another five bucks for a gooey treat?

But when it comes to nutritional justice, the purveyors at most food courts deserve to be disbarred. In addition to the standard fast food peddlers, malls often offer uniquely bad-for-you treats that you’d never think of eating unless they were right there in front of you while your belly is screaming “feed me!”

“The key to helping your daughter control her weight is arming her with the information she needs to make smart choices,” I said. “You need a few insider tips.” Then I laid some out for her:


Worst Mall Drink
Jamba Juice Peanut Butter Moo’d (22 oz)
770 calories
20 g fat (4.5 g saturated)
108 g sugars


The scary thing about this 22-ounce shake is that you can consume nearly half a day’s worth of calories in 3 minutes of spirited sipping, all under the pseudohealthy banner of the sacred smoothie. What’s even scarier is you’ll be slurping up the sugar equivalent of 6 packs of peanut M&M’s, all while thinking you’re doing your body a favor. While at Jamba, stick to their impressive list of smoothies in the All Fruit and Light categories.


Bonus tip: For thousands of tips and tricks like this one, download Eat This, Not That! to your iPhone. It’s like having your own personal nutritionist in your pocket wherever you go--with facts on more than 100,000 restaurant and supermarket foods.

Drink This Instead!
Jamba Juice Mango Mantra (16 oz)
150 calories
0.5 g fat (0 g saturated)
27 g sugars

SAVE 620 CALORIES AND 20 GRAMS OF FAT! Make this smart swap just a couple times a week and lose more than 15 pounds a year!


Worst Slice of Pizza
Sbarro Stuffed Pepperoni Pizza (1 slice)
890 calories
42 g fat
3,200 mg sodium


The architecture of this thing makes it less like a slice of pizza and more like a pizza-inspired Chipotle Burrito. It relies on an oversize shell of oily bread to hold together a gooey wad of cheese and pepperoni. The net result is a pizza pocket with two-thirds of your day’s fat and more than a day’s worth of sodium. And the traditional pizza slices aren’t much better; few fall below 600 calories. If you want to do well at Sbarro, think thin crust with nothing but produce on top.


Bonus tip: Another bit of menu magic: Order anything from the 20 Best Restaurant Foods in America, and leave the restaurant feeling satisfied with your healthy and delicious dish. You'll enjoy the healthiest versions of your favorite meals.


Eat This Instead!
Sbarro New York Style Fresh Tomato Pizza (1 slice)
450 calories
14 g fat
1,040 mg sodium

SAVE 440 CALORIES AND 28 GRAMS OF FAT! Make this smart swap just a couple times a week and lose more than 10 pounds of fat in a year.


Worst Chinese Meal
Panda Express Orange Chicken with Fried Rice
970 calories
38 g fat (7.5 g saturated)
1,540 mg sodium


It’s unfortunate that this dish happens to be one of the most popular on Panda’s menu. Consider the recipe: Battered and fried, then coated in a sugary syrup. It’s like Colonel Sanders meets Willy Wonka. Pair with a scoop of fried rice and you’ve got a dish with serious flab-enhancing potential. Here’s a better survival strategy: Skip the rice altogether and choose steamed veggies instead. Then pick any entrée besides orange chicken.


Bonus tip: You already know to watch out for calories from food. But we consume about a quarter of our day’s calories in liquid form. Read The 40 Best and Worst Beers to find out how that’s possible, and look for the upcoming Drink This, Not That! book, which shows you how to make the smartest choices in the entire beverage world.


Eat This Instead!
Panda Express Broccoli with Eggplant and Tofu
460 calories
30 g fat (4.5 g saturated)
1,400 mg sodium

SAVE 510 CALORIES AND 8 GRAMS OF FAT.



Worst Sandwich
Panera Bread Full Chipotle Chicken on Artisan French
990 calories
56 g fat (15 g saturated, 1 g trans)
2,370 mg sodium


Panera, home to soups, salads, and a general feeling of well-being (not to mention free Wi-Fi!), benefits from a beaming health halo—a perceived virtuousness that doesn’t necessarily play out in the hard realities of their nutritional stats. Yes, you can carefully construct a well-balanced 500-calorie meal, but you can also unknowingly consume 1,500 calories without breaking a sweat. Take this sandwich: It begins innocently enough (chicken and white bread), but is supported by a scurrilous cast of bacon strips, high-fat chipotle sauce, and a tarp of cheddar cheese, the most fattening of cheese choices.


Bonus tip: Sandwiches can be excellent lunch choices, or utter diet destroyers. See the 30 Worst Sandwiches in America for more examples like this one.
Eat This Instead!

Panera Bread Full Smoked Turkey on Country Miche Bread
560 calories
17 g fat (2.5 g saturated)
1,960 mg sodium

SAVE 430 CALORIES AND 39 GRAMS OF FAT!




The Worst Mall Food in America
Cinnabon Regular Caramel Pecanbun
1,100 calories
56 g fat (10 g saturated, 5 g trans)
47 g sugars
141 g carbohydrates


Cinnabon and malls are inseparable. Consider it a symbiotic relationship: Researchers have found that we're turned on by the smell of cinnamon rolls, and further studies have shown that we're more likely to spend money when we're thinking about sex. But just because Cinnabon might be good for Gap doesn’t mean it’s all good for you. This dangerously bloated bun contains nearly an ENTIRE day’s worth of fat, two and a half times the unhealthy trans fats you should get in a day, and more than half of your daily allotment of calories. (For those keeping score, that’s as much as you’ll find in 8 White Castle hamburgers).


Bonus tip: Save calories, time, and money with our FREE Eat This, Not That! newsletter. Sign up today and you’ll get the Eat This, Not That! guide to shopping once and eating for a week for free!
Eat This Instead!

Cinnabon Stix
379 calories
21 g fat (6 g saturated, 4 g trans)
14 g sugars
41 g carbohydrates

SAVE A WHOPPING 721 CALORIES AND 35 GRAMS OF FAT!

------------

Check out these cutting-edge guides to fast and easy weight loss, the brand-new Men's Health Big Book of Exercises and Women's Health Big Book of Exercises.

Flatten your stomach in weeks.


Cook This, Not That! Get the new book!

Food is Love Haitian Relief Event on March 27th

Top Chef Ron Duprat Join Forces with WSB-TV and Chef G. Eric Centeno To Host “Food is Love” To Benefit Haitian Relief Efforts.

Atlanta, GA, March 11, 2010 – Chef G. Eric Centeno, in coordination with WSB-TV, will host its annual Chefs For The Cause Food is Love, a cooking event benefiting the Yéle Haiti Earthquake Fund, on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 7pm to 10pm located at Legends Banquet & Special Event Center, 181 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd., SW Atlanta, GA. Admission fee is $75 per person.

WSB-TV and Executive Chef of the World Trade Center Atlanta, Chef G. Eric Centeno will be joined by Top Chef Ron Duprat, Chef Julio Viera, Chef Richard Hurst and more than twenty local chefs and participating restaurants for an evening of specialty food samplings and live entertainment by International Haitian Jazz Artist "GINOU" and Atlanta’s own Ameribbean Bandby Henry Hans Jr., “The Creoles”. Proceeds will benefit the Yéle Haiti Earthquake Fund.

Approximately 500 guests are expected to attend and will enjoy dishes prepared by Chef G. Eric Centeno, Executive Chef of the World Trade Center Atlanta and chefs from participating restaurants. Sponsors will include Legends Banquet & Special Event Center, Georgia Restaurant Association, The Haitian Alliance, Alliance Française d’Atlanta, King & Spalding, Barry Callebaut,Le Cordon Bleu, Romulus Management Group, Community partners and media partners include WSB-TV, Kiss 104.1, 95.5 the BEAT, Métisse Media Productions and The People Brokers PR Agency. For sponsorship opportunities contact 678-542-5757. Tickets must be purchased inadvance by going to the website http://www.chefsforthecause.org/index.html

ABOUT CHEFS FOR THE CAUSE: Chefs for the Cause is an alliance of culinary professionals and educators working to providenutrition education, hunger relief, and emergency and humanitarian aid to reduce hunger acrossthe world.



For more info: http://www.chefsforthecause.org/index.html

MEDIA CONTACT:Kisha Cameron The People Brokers PR Agencykisha@thepeoplebrokers.com 404.886.7348


I had an awesome time!! Some pics below, sorry for the not so great camera, more on that story later :O)







I was on Caribe TV LOL where ever that shows LOL