Target First Saturdays

Target First Saturdays at the Brooklyn Museum attracts thousands to experience live music and performances, stunning exhibitions, art discussions, and film screenings—all for free!  First Saturdays at the museum has been a tremendous hit for many years, as I can recall attending it multiple times as a little girl.  Over the past 2 years, it’s become a hot spot for people of all ages! This Saturday, the Brooklyn Museum opens it’s doors for you to indulge in a wide range of culturally eclectic events and programs.  Here are a few interesting happenings going on this Saturday: 

Flex is King:  Flex is King is a raw, uncut documentary that takes a glimpse into the dance movement “flexing”.   Featuring flexing artists, Deidre Schoo and Michael Beach Nichols, the documentary takes on a candid, but inspirational melody, which ultimately highlights the beauty and precision of this art form.  Several clips will be exclusively shown this Saturday!  Additionally, this event will be followed by a Q&A session with the filmmakers and a live demonstration of flexing! Be sure to view the trailer here: http://vimeo.com/35915742

Soulful Tunes:  Maya Azucena is a talented singer-songwriter who will be gracing First Saturday visitors with her new album, Cry Love.  Ms. Azucena’s sound is reminiscent of Jill Scott.  Cry Love is smooth.  It’s groovy.  It’s soulful. 

Spit and Passion:  The author of Spit and Passion Cristy C. Roads will be discussing her new book about her struggle finding a balance her strong Cuban Catholic roots, and family, while discovering her “newfound queer identity”.   

Get Moving:  First Saturdays will be closing with a dance performance by L.O.U.D (League of Unreal Dancing).   L.O.U.D is a Brooklyn-based dance agency that features multi-talented performers that use dance to express individuality!  Most L.O.U.D performances are gritty, exciting dance battles that incite energy and exhilaration in audience members.  Expect a good time.        

- Brittany Spell

What to do in NYC: Black Friday Edition

To shop or not to shop, that is the question.  With Black Friday just a few days away, the level of anxiety and excitement across America is increasing by the second.  Black Friday is a highly anticipated event in many households across the nation and it looks like Black Friday 2012 will not disappoint!  Therefore, I’ve taken the time to cruise through several newspapers and websites looking for the best Black Friday sales happening not just in New York, but also the rest of the country. 

Urban Outfitters:  Urban Outfitter is infamous for selling overpriced goodies.   Lucky for us, Urban Outfitters is offering customers 50% off all sale items.  Whether the object of your desire is $7 or a $100, 50% off will do you justice!

H&M:  While H&M hasn’t released their sales for Black Friday yet, they have a Black Friday presale going on between November 19^th and 21^st.  They’re offering deals starting at just $7!  While many retail-clothing stores aren’t revealing what they’ll have in store, I know that several lucky men and women will score H&M’s desirable collab items with Versace and Maison Martin Margiela for terrific prices.  Additionally, there’s buzz that H&M will be dropping prices for many items to just $5—seriously!

Tommy Hilfiger:  Tommy Hilfiger just revealed their exciting Black Friday deals for 2012!  All items—I repeat—all items in the store will be 40% off and all purchases over $200 will receive an additional 25% percent off!  Do not miss out!

Victoria’s Secret:  I have good news for participants of Victoria’s Secret Black Friday sale last year!  Those amazing limited edition tote bags abundantly filled with beauty must-haves will again be given out to customers this year when at least $65 is spent!  Last year, the bag alone was valued at $70!  While Victoria’s Secret hasn’t revealed their deals for Black Friday, I am sure they will be worthwhile!  Additionally, if it’s anything like last year, customers shopping online will be given the opportunity to receive the limited edition totes as well!

Target:  Target is offering many drool-worthy items for phenomenal prices.  Target is the perfect place for Black Friday shopping if you’re looking for a tremendous amount of sales and a variety of items to steal—yes, steal!  The prices are so great they’re nearly a steal.  The three featured items on the website includes, the Canon T3 DSLR bundle originally $749.99 but now $499.99, the Nook Simple touch originally $99.99 but now $49.00, and the 4 GB XBox 360 Kinect Bundle originally $299.99 but now $199.99.  While these are all electronic goodies, Target will be offering deals for toys, entertainment, women apparel, men apparel, children apparel, home goods, furniture, Christmas items, and health and beauty products.  In short, if you’re heading to Target, you need to have a plan in place!  Visit the website to review ALL Black Friday deals! (http://www.target.com/c/target-black-friday/-/N-5q0f2)

Wal-Mart:  Wal-Mart promises “some of the year's best shopping values” this Black Friday 2012!  Much like Target, Wal-Mart is featuring a website page dedicated to revealing all of their well-calculated deals for consumers.  Check them out here!  (http://localad.walmart.com/Walmart/Entry/Flash?forceview=y&povid=cat1076614-env430434-module480045-lLink2&promotioncode=LA_Walmart-121123)  I think I have to agree with Wal-Mart when they say that they’re offering some of the greatest deals of the year because there are so many deals that are truly inexpensive!  To name a few, 1/4 Carat Diamond Hoop Earrings in Sterling Silver will be $38; Casio G-Shock watches will be $47, and Danskin pullovers for $6.  If you’re looking for electronics or kids toys, Wal-Mart is offering the greatest deals.  Be sure to peruse the website! 

Best Buy:  How can you not expect Best Buy to elevate the excitement and deliver some generous deals on the latest gadgets and electronics?!  Best Buy’s circular highlights include, the Canon PowerShot A2300 digital camera for just $79.99, a 10-Cup Drip Coffeemaker for $7.99, and a Samsung 28.0-Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator (Stainless-Steel) originally priced at $3,199.99 but now $1,899.99!  Now, I’m not sure if you’re looking for a refrigerator at this point, but I LOVE a good deal!  To view the rest, visit this website.  (http://blackfriday.com/stores/best-buy?store=best-buy)

- Brittany Spell

Rihanna x Wale

Today I am Unapologetic for having Rih’s new album on replay all day.  Rihanna’s seventh studio album titled Unapologetic came out today and it seems to be what everyone is talking about.  I think it’s a strong album for her, especially because its so different than her past albums.  Its got this nasty swag to it, like she’s living in her prime and could care less what critics say about her.  From the upbeat club bound “Phresh Off the Runway” that will end up on the radio for sure, to nice collaborations with Future for one of my favorites “Loveeeee Song” Rihanna proves again why she’s on-top.  One of the best things about Rih is her ability to change, she’s a chameleon with her style keeping her Navy on their toes with what she’s will come out with next. 

Anytime I’m asked who is your favorite rapper, its like one of those questions where you ask, “right now? Or of all time?”.  Well I’m always torn, just excited really, for what is new to come out.  Wale is definitely one of my favorites I always can rely on.  He’s poetic and hip hop, and though a lot of people feel like he may have changed or even sold out, I disagree.  Wale has a story-like flow and can offer the best of both worlds, with his new mixtape coming out I hope he can go back to his days of More About Nothing flow.  The mixtape is called “Folarin”, so keep an eye out for that. 

This past weekend I took a trip to the Village to get some culture.  The beautiful thing about New York is the music that you get from all around you.  A couple stops into my ride on the F train a Mexican Marachi band came on my car and played a couple songs.  It reminded me that in a city like this there is a pulse of music and culture everywhere, even in the most unexpected places. 

French Montana’s Mac and Cheese 3 is supposed to drop tonight (Monday, Nov 19)!  After his numerous delays I’m ready to hear what French has been working on.  Also keep a look out for Fabolous’ The Soul Tape 2 comes out in two days!

I hope you all enjoy your thanksgiving and black Friday steals!

What’s on my repaly

Unapologetic Deluxe  – Rihanna

Diamonds Remix – Rihanna ft. Kanye West

Twenty Eight – The Weeknd

- Alyssa Jones

You Are What You Wear..Or Maybe Not?

Is your style really a reflection of you? Do you care what image you convey with your clothing? What truly means 'dress to express'?

Teenagers and the demographic of college-age students alike are the number one priority demographically when it comes to the fashion world. I just want to know, do you think they really care about your best interest? Are you conscious of your choices? Everyday we witness the media- social networks, tabloids, gossip websites- hype up celebrities and their so-called 'fashion sense'. It's sad to say there are those of us who subconsciously emulate those people to a T. Being that we are children of older generations- the psychedelic and activist era of the sixties, the revolutionary and disco era of the seventies, the retro and glam of the eighties, and so on- you'd think collectively we'd each conjure up a sense of individualism. It hurts me to say a lot of us rely on those put on a pedestal around us to dress us, which can in itself relay a lot about us to the world.

At the end of the day, some might say they do not care about the opinions of others, or everyone will eventually look the same. Touché. However, as pictures are worth a thousand words, do you really want to look back and have those words not be your own? Allow your soul to glow through the clothing.  Fashion  statements are the unspoken words of the individual wearing them; don't allow the clothes to wear you.

- Olivia Khoury

A NYC Spectacular: Radio City Christmas Spectacular

            With the first snow fall of the season and Thanksgiving literally around the corner, there is certainly a sense of community, hope and excitement in the atmosphere—a semblance reminiscent of Christmas.   Yes, folks!  It’s that time of the year again!  

            Starting this past weekend, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is back for their 85^th year celebration!  Let me tell you—this show never disappoints.   The one-of-a-kind extravaganza, which features the dazzlingly synchronized Rockettes as well as numerous and surprising attractions, keeps you on the edge of your seat with glee.  I’ve seen the Radio City Christmas Spectacular five times and it still gives me chills.  Minute by minute you are enthralled by the creativity, imagination and perfection of each precise moment.  All of the vivid special effects and holiday tunes make the build up to Christmas even more magical.  Putting aside the aspects that make the show special, there is an undeniable feeling you get witnessing the show unfold.  You literally feel like a little kid again.  For one moment in time—you may just remember what it is like to believe in MAGIC.  It’s impossible to leave without a sense of inspiration and gratitude because the show’s message embodies those two themes.   All in all, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a great experience to share with loved ones no matter what age!    

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular will be going on now through December 30^th.   Be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible because the show is known to sell out by December.  You can get your tickets through Ticketmaster.  (http://www.ticketmaster.com/Radio-City-Christmas-Spectacular-NYC-tickets/artist/807157) Additionally, for 20% off your tickets, enter the offer code NYCGO.

   - Brittany Spell 

Ne-Yo x Cassidy x J. Cole x Rihanna

It looks like winter is just about here people!  And what’s better than some good R&B music?  Ne-Yo’s release of R.E.D. was a great album especially for the season.  R.E.D. is a beautiful smooth piece Ne-Yo created; he has some of his classical style and also some upbeat dance tracks that give off a pop vibe.  While he was on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club he said that his album was just good music, whether it’s R&B or pop; point, blank, period.  Now I’m not a big fan of his dance tracks but they are doing well on the charts. I think R.E.D. is a great piece and I’ll be listening to this one for a while. 

Cassidy and Meek Mill are all over social sites with Cassidy’s commenting on battling Meek. Allegedly, Meek said he was open to battling either Murda Mook or Cassidy for $100K. A few tweets later Meek claimed he meant for the rappers to battle it out themselves and then subsequently pronounced Mook to be King.  Cassidy then called into Philly’s Hot 107.9 to say he was down to battle Meek and even complimented him; you can check out the video below.  This would be a great battle, with Meek’s mean flow and come up on freestyles he could bring something different and hard.  Cassidy, however is known for this with a talent like no other. I’d have to say Cassidy would take this one in my opinion, but I am looking forward to finding out if they really will go through with it. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Umg2NpoJViE       

J. Cole’s sophomore album finally has a date of January 28, 2013. I’m excited to hear what other narrative, poetic stories Cole will hit us with next. Though lately, I’ve had some interesting conversations about J. Cole and his signing to Jay Z’s label, Roc Nation.  Some people feel like his talent was muffled under Jay Z’s label, that in order to make it big under his label and obtain that top spot is to be another Kanye West.  I can’t agree; I feel like Cole is one of those intelligent rappers who is dedicated to his craft, and with a mentor like Jay he knows he has to step up to the plate which I think Born Sitter will. 

This Afternoon Rihanna had a listening party for her album coming out November 19^th, Unapologetic. The cost to get in?  It’s free, with any donation of practical goods to help those affected by Sandy’s rage.  The launch was held at Jay Z’s 40/40 club and although I was all too upset I wasn’t able to go, I heard it was a lot of fun and some friends of mine even got to meet her.  The beautiful songstress promised to donate $100,000 to the Food Bank of New York City to aid those who were affected by Hurricane Sandy and also 1,000 sleeping bags.  As sweet as she is spicy, Rihanna proved the charity and love that we all need to adapt especially in a time like this.  Ri Ri also released her anticipated video for her single Diamonds, below is the link. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWA2pjMjpBs&list=UU2xskkQVFEpLcGFnNSLQY0A&index=1&feature=plcp

What’s on my Replay

Outstanding - Talib Kweli

B**** Don’t Kill My Vibe (Remix) – Kendrick Lamar Ft. Lady Gaga (The original version was supposed to be on Kendrick's good kid, m.A.A.d city) 

Till Dawn (Here Comes the Sun)- The Weeknd

For the Love-Fabolous

Hell & Back- Kid Ink Ft. Ned Cameron

Beastin’ - Chase N. Cashe ft. A$AP Rocky

R.E.D Album – Ne-Yo

Big Boi feat. ASAP Rocky & Phantogram

- Alyssa Jones

In Style: Leather!

Trading in cotton for leather? Yes, yes, y'all. Ladies, although those darling cotton leggings are our best friends, we need to be honest and say they've served their time. Recently, I've been eyeing those cute leather- pleather for the cheap people like me- pant leggings. Leather is very tricky to wear; to pair it with just anything can look a bit tacky and overbearing. For a chic ensemble, go all black; for a retro look, add gold jewelry to your outfit; to go classy, add a dainty, oversized sweater and flats. 


For the brothas, leather bottoms can either come off a little flamboyant, or send a misconstrued message. To be on the safe side, stick to leather vests or jackets; the classic look to add some simple chic-ness to the wardrobe. Obscure elegance always catches an eye (But remember: BLACK leather, boys. Please don't go '85 Michael Jackson on us with the red leather jacket). All in all, leather is the perfect go-to piece when in need. Delicate, edgy, and sophisticated. Once you go (p)leather, you never go back.

- Olivia Khoury

5 FREE Things to do This Week: November 4th to November 11th

For Stress Relief:  Believe it or not, there are six weeks left of the fall semester!   With papers, projects and exams taking up your schedule combined with the rush of the holidays taking up your thoughts, now is the perfect time to de-stress.  This Sunday at Kissena Park, participate in a free Chinese martial arts and tai chi class with traditional Kung Fu Master James Ran.  Don’t fret—no experience is required.  The class focuses on learning how to reduce stress, lose weight, enhance focus, refine health and improve strength.  Located in Flushing, Kissena Park’s address is 4631 Kissena Blvd.  Classes will start at 10:00 am and end at 12:00 pm.  Additionally, these classes will continue to take place every Sunday until December 16^th.  All inquiries can be handled with Stacy at 201-560–2692. 

For Celebrity Gossip:  If you’ve ever wanted to see TV personality Wendy Williams live, here’s your chance!  Tickets for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday show are still available on the website.  http://www.wendyshow.com/tickets/get-tickets/ Wendy’s studio tapings are known to be just as electrifying as her zesty personality.  Expect to catch the latest dish from reality star Kyle Richards from “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” on Tuesday, actor David Hasselhoff and “Top Chef” judge Gail Simmons on Wednesday, and fashion expert Daisy Lewellyn and an unrevealed celebrity panel for Hot Talk on Thursday.  There is no doubt—Wendy Williams will not disappoint!  

For Nature and Beauty:  If you’re longing to get away from campus and indulge in a world of nature and beauty, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is for you.  There’s a sense of intimacy and peacefulness that blankets the Garden’s landscape. This Tuesday, come and enjoy free admission to the Garden. With 13 diverse garden themes left for exploration, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden becomes the perfect venue for contemplation and relaxation. Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s address is 1000 Washington Avenue Brooklyn, NY. 

For Meditation:  Take part in Sacred Studio’s “Warm 60 Minute Class” this Saturday, November 10, at noon.  Practiced in a hot room, the yoga class focuses on acquiring proper form and breathing techniques.  Additionally, a free 30-minute meditation class follows up the yoga class.  Sacred studio will provide mats, towels and water.  The only thing you’re required to bring is a bottle.  Because the studio runs on a first come, first served basis, punctuality is encouraged.  Sacred Studio’s address is 197 Clifton Pl, Brooklyn, NY.

For Live Music:  Join the eclectic crowd of music lovers that faithfully accumulate at BAMcafé Live this Friday and Saturday night.  Speaking from experience, the Brooklyn Academy of Music features the most vibrant, brilliant and mind-expansive performances imaginable.  In short, BAM events are like no other.  This week you can expect to eat up a psychedelic experience that features free rock, jazz, R&B, world, pop, and more from new and established artists in the Lepercq Space.  Brooklyn Academy of Music’s address is 30 Lafayette Ave Brooklyn, NY.  For any inquiries, the contact number is (718) 636-4100.

Meek Mill x Curren$y

This week the talk around St. John’s, other than the week off classes due to Sandy, is none other than Dreams and Nightmares by Meek Mill.  The album dropped this past weekend and the reviews have been mixed.  From the moment I first heard Meek I was a fan, I felt like he was going to come and change up the game, give us something we could ride to, bounce to or just hang around and chill to, but this album was not my favorite.  From the start, it seemed like almost every other song Meek does and as it progressed, with the exception of some tracks, it sounded the same throughout.  Meek channels anger, pain and his struggles that hit with a force when you listen. Tracks like “Burn” and “Believe It” gave off similar flows and eventually one can tire out before the album has played in its entirety.  Though with a few exceptions like “Traumatized” where you could feel Meek’s story and flow with him, I wasn't the biggest fan of his premier album.  

Meek is in the family of plenty of rappers who came before his time, and got big from the underground rap scene and off mixtapes such as Dreamchasers one and two. Facing two big roads to choose from, continuing to produce the music that the fans they already love to bump to or choosing to go more “mainstream” and produce more pop songs.  Each definitely has their own disadvantages, choosing the fan route could mean closing yourself off from getting a bigger fan base and choosing “mainstream” could push away your already avid listeners.  Take Wale for example, for his first album Attention Deficit he decided to go pop and those album sales are history.  But you have to give Meek some credit for this album, he stayed true to his voice and played to his strengths.  I look forward to his future works and hope he changes it up a bit. 

One of my favorite rappers Curren$y dropped a new mixtape titled Priest Andretti.  Curren$y has a flow that’s so unique, very chill vibe and for his first mixtape after his summer album The Stoned Immaculate I thought it was very well done.  Tracks that I can’t stop listening to are without a doubt “Feelin’ Like”, “Amsterdam (Freestyle)” and “Motion” which features Corner Boy P. 

Keep a look out for The Weeknd’s Trilogy LP coming soon!

What’s on my Replay

Priest Andretti – Curren$y

The Jig Is Up – Kendrick Lamar ft J. Cole & Canei Finch

Chum – Earl Sweatshirt

- Alyssa Jones

Black Solidarity Day!

Black Solidarity Day was founded in 1969 to reflect on our role in society, but more specifically, in our community. On this day, participants of Black Solidarity Day refrain from purchasing any products that were not sold by businesses owned by persons of color. The reason being is to show that as minorities, these major companies benefit greatly from us. It is a day to come together, reflect, and support the local businesses in our communities. 

Join us on November 5th, 2012. 

All of our events for the day will take place in Marillac Terrace. 

Discussion
Movie Showing: Common Hour

D9 Forum: 5:15pm-6:15pm


March
Dinner: 7:30pm 

ALL BLACK ATTIRE.