PRESS RELEASE:  The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation will hold its Annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 27, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial in Holmdel, NJ. Hundreds of veterans and their families are anticipated to attend. The guest speaker at this year's ceremony is Brigadier General (Ret) Vincent E. Stahl. The ceremony will also include the presentation of two scholarships to New Jersey high school seniors and the induction of five Vietnam Veterans into the Memorial's "In Memory" program. 

"Veterans and their families from across New Jersey are invited to attend the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation Ceremony. The emotional and stirring day pays real tribute to those who served and continue to serve this Country," said Bill Linderman, Executive Director, New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation.
 
Brigadier General (Ret) Vincent E. Stahl of Milltown, NJ was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant after graduating as an ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate from Saint Peter's College. After completing Armor Officer Branch and Airborne School, he served in a variety of positions with the 4th Medium Tank Battalion, 37th Armor.  Stahl joined the 5th Special Forces Group in 1964 and was assigned as a Detachment Executive Officer in the Central Highlands. Upon release from active duty, General Stahl joined the Army Reserve and served a variety of commands including Army Reserve Ambassador for the state of New Jersey. He has enjoyed a successful career in the Pharmaceutical Industry and makes frequent presentations related to his experiences

The New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation will be awarding two $2,500 college scholarships during the ceremony. The scholarship recipients are Sarah Twomey of Pennington, graduating from Hopewell Valley Central High School in Pennington, and Steven Penna of Sparta, graduating from Sparta High School in Sparta. 

During the ceremony, the Foundation will induct five Vietnam Veterans into its "In Memory" Program, which honors NF residents who served and died as a result of the war in Vietnam, but whose names are not on the Memorial. Some of these deaths are due to Agent Orange exposure, Hepatitis C and the physical or emotional wounds received in Vietnam. The inductees' names will be placed on an engraved stone inside the Memorial so that all who visit will know that they are with their honored comrades. 

As part of the ceremony, family members will say a few words about their loved ones and light a candle in their memories.  A book of biographical information, complied by the family, is also placed in the Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center's Resource Room. 

The five "In Memory" inductees are:

• Specialist 4th Class William D. Buist of Belleville, NJ
• Sergeant Michael J. Green of Harrison, NJ
• Specialist 4th Class Alan A. Howardell of Rahway, NJ
• Sergeant Daniel L. O'Connell of Atlantic City, NJ
• Sergeant First Class Daniel R. Shea of Lambertville, NJ

Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center Open Memorial Day

During the day, the Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Admission is free. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Museum’s exhibit hall features a chronology of the Vietnam War that presents a historical recollection of the events of the era, shown in two concurrent timelines – one reflecting the activity in Vietnam and the other reflecting the activity in the United States. The unique space offers visitors a full perspective of the political, military, social and cultural elements in play during the time. Interspersed along this timeline are touch screen computers that provide visitors with an interactive glance at historical events, as well as personal photographs and letters submitted by Vietnam veterans and their families.

“Dedicated in September 1998, the Vietnam Era Museum & Educational Center is the first educational center and museum of its kind in the United States,” said Bill Linderman, Executive Director, New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Foundation. “As a Vietnam War veteran, I am honored to pay tribute to the courageous men and women through the stories we share daily. Education is key to preserving our past and honoring the fallen and soldiers who valiantly served our Country.”

The Museum is located adjacent to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial off the Garden State Parkway at exit 116 in Holmdel. The Memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Museum & Educational Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For more information on the Memorial or Museum, call 732-335-0033 or visit www.njvvmf.org.

Pavers Program at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation

For a $250 donation, a personal message of a person's choosing can be engraved on one of the pavers lining the sides of the Memorial walkway. New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Foundation's pavers are a tribute to the men and women of New Jersey who served this nation during the Vietnam War. If you have any questions about this program, please contact Lynn Duane at lduane@njvvmf or 732-335-0033 xt. 100.

A surprise!  From Ashley Salazar!  I was very excited!

Ashley Salazar - you may recognize the name - is Playboy's Miss Social of the Year 2013!  (Click here to see some of her extraordinary photos from her Playboy photo shoot earlier this year.)  She's a Maxim model, too.

Ashley Salazar (now soon-to-be Ashley Stormborn with impending nuptials) and I had been following each other on Twitter for a while.  We have a lot in common:  We are both bilingual - although she speaks Spanish a lot better than I do!  We share a love of nature and animals (She is highly active in efforts to save rhinos from poaching;) and we are both moms to little girls.

I saw her amazing photos, such perfect presentation, exquisite lighting, and of course her natural beauty - and got to know that there was also a beautiful businesswoman behind it all. 

She's the CEO and founder of MissOohLaLaa.com, and a professional photographer!  She's not only great on camera, but she's a star behind the lens, too.  She's the force behind Lady Ashley Photography - bringing out the beauty in everyone from aspiring models, to capturing special events like weddings.

"I have experience in front of the camera from my years as a model which I believe makes me very creative and flexible with getting more than just average shots. I can also offer my models make-up artists, stylist work, and modeling jobs," she says.

Honestly, her experience posing in front of the camera is invaluable when it comes to photographing her subjects, because she knows not just the technical aspects of how to produce the perfect picture, but all about the posing point of view, as well.  It's a rare combination to possess.

In the midst of planning her wedding, this lovely lady had taken the time to pose wearing one of my signature t-shirts and surprised me in the best way possible.  Right after I had finished dinner, I saw Twitter and Facebook light up with this fabulous photo of her sporting a TheLadyinRedBlog t-shirt with her starlit smile.  She took my breath away!  I can't tell you how thrilled I was to receive this surprise - revealed to the world in the best way.  She's got a permanent place in my gallery.

I look to Ashley for inspiration.  So do many others.  She inspires women to be beautiful inside and out, to be proud of who they are, and do it with a smile at the same time. And to the guys out there, yes, she's just downright gorgeous through and through.

Thank you Ashley!  

PRESS RELEASE:  Red Bank, NJ (May 13, 2013) – Thousands are anticipated to turn out for the Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation’s (JSJBF) Jazz and Blues Summer Series Festivals. Each date in the series will feature crowd-pleasing jazz and blues musicians, food, crafters and activities for the entire family. Beer and wine gardens will be featured at Asbury Park and Point Pleasant Borough and fireworks at Long Branch. The festivals are free to the public, dog friendly and all ages are welcome to attend. Each year, sponsor donations from the events raise essential funds for the nonprofit Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation’s operational expenses. Sponsors include Comcast, Investors Bank, Hunterdon Brewing Company, Lagunitas Brewing Company and Alex and Ani.
 
"After much devastation from Sandy, music lovers from across the Jersey Shore are in the mood to celebrate an exciting season of top-notch entertainment seaside. The Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation has been honored to present jazz and blues fans, young and old, with our award-winning Jazz and Blues Festivals for 25 years. The events are widely-anticipated by thousands of residents and shore visitors," said Dennis Eschbach, Event Director, Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Festivals. "Thanks to the dedication of our 2013 sponsors, musicians and host towns, we anticipate this year's festivals to be bigger and better than ever!” 

Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Summer Series of Music Festivals • 3 Days of Jazz & Blues

Asbury Park Blues and Brews Festival, Bradley Park, Across from the Convention Hall and the Boardwalk, Asbury Park, NJSaturday, June 8, Noon – 8:00 p.m.

Headliner: Mikey Jr. & Stone Cold Blues with Special Guest Steve Guyger
Asbury Park Lineup
12:00-1:00p.m. Carlos Colina & Straight Up
1:15- 2:15 p.m.  Slim Chance & The Gamblers
2:30- 3:30 p.m.  Chuck Lambert Band
3:45- 4:45 p.m.  Sandy Mack & Friends
5:00 -6:15 p.m.  Jon Herrington Band (Steely Dan Guitarist)
6:30- 8:00 p.m.  Mikey Jr. & Stone Cold Blues featuring Steve Guyger
 
Point Pleasant Jazz and Blues Festival, Riverfront Park, Corner of Maxson Avenue and River Road, Point Pleasant Borough, NJSaturday, July 20, Noon – 8:00 p.m.

Headliner: The Soul Project featuring Eryn Shewell
Point Pleasant Lineup
12:00-1:00 p.m. Barbecue Bob & The Spareribs
1:15- 2:15 p.m.  Randy Napoleon Band
2:30- 3:30 p.m.  Juke Joint Jonny
3:45- 4:45 p.m.  Sandy Sasso Quartet
5:00 -6:15 p.m.  The Incinerators
6:30- 8:00 p.m.  The Soul Project featuring Eryn Shewell
 
Long Branch Jazz and Blues Festival, Great Lawn at the Boardwalk, 28 McKinley Avenue, Long Branch, NJSaturday, August 24, Noon-10:00 p.m. followed by fireworks

Headliner: The Rob Paparozzi AllStarsLong Branch Lineup
1:00- 1:25 p.m.  Gary Wright
1:30- 2:30 p.m.  The Blind Tellers
2:45- 3:45 p.m.  Dorian Parreott Jazz Ensemble
4:00-5:00 p.m.  Bob Del Rosso Band
5:15- 6:15 p.m.  The Long Gone Daddies
6:30-7:30 p.m.  Al Chez & The Brothers of Funk
7:45- 9:15 p.m.  The Rob Paparozzi AllStars

Founded in 1987, the nonprofit Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation remains dedicated to its efforts to preserve, promote and perpetuate jazz and blues on the Jersey Shore through performance and education. Visit www.jsjbf.org  for more information. Connect with the JSJBF on Facebook at Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Festival and Twitter @JSJazzBluesFest. For information on becoming a festival sponsor, food vendor or crafter, contact Doris Lazur at 732-933-1984 or sponsors@jsjbf.org.

I'm getting all choked up as I finish this celebration! Wow! Just wow! So many people coming together and supporting each other now all connected through TheLadyinRedBlog after just one year! I'm so happy! I hope that this Red Hot Birthday Bash has brought many of you happiness, too! Let's keep it going!

I'd love to see you all swing by again to share photos of your swag, read some recipes, leave your comments on blogs I write, or listen to me on the radio from time to time and see what's going on in the world of RED!

There are lots of exciting things on their way - periodic giveaways, the Red Hot Store is opening this summer on TheLadyinRedBlog.com, and there are plans for this media venture to expand!

If you won a prize, please, email a photo of yourself, your pet, your kids, or your friends enjoying it at the_lady_in_red@theladyinredblog.com It's not required, but it would sure be fun! :)   I'll post it on my blog Facebook page and share it with the sponsors of the prizes!  I'm sure they would love to see you having a great time with the gifts!

The sponsors and I will be very busy sending out the prizes to all of you who won them over the next couple of weeks.  Don't worry! You'll get them if you gave us a mailing address!  If you live outside of the USA, it will probably take a few weeks for a prize to reach you once it is mailed, since it has to travel further and go through customs.  Thank you for your patience!

A HUGE thank you to all of my sponsors for this amazing one year anniversary celebration!  I couldn't have done this without you!

The Cheese Cave 1 month of Cheese:  Khurt Williams

Chick Nail Polish 4 pack:  Ruby Red

Red Cup Living Prize Pack:  Bruce Hamilton

Kleen Slate Concepts Prize Pack:  Anca Soble

Glitzsee Motion Activated Purse Light: Shanali Davila

Wine with RobYnwitha-Y Wine Glass & T-shirt:  Michele McCann

The Purple Heart by Christie A.C. Gucker: Amelia Neo

Soft Claws Nail Caps for Cats: Christie Gucker

Strappys Decorative Red Rhinestone Bra Straps: Fernanda Garcia
                                                                 Conni Liner Wright

Red Beaded Bracelet by Bella Bling Jewels:  Andria Hall

The Hungry Chick Dieting Solution by Chef Jai Scovers:Debbie Norz

Johnny Jalopy Hot Rod Art Prize Pack:  Beth Pekar

The Cliff by Christie A.C. Gucker:    Stacy Bradley
                                                Jaime Gerard

Mad Hatter Foods Prize Pack:  Matthew Wayland

Duff Goldman Baking Set:  Georgia Beckman

Pastry Shop Cookies Gourmet Apples:  Patty Baskerville

Flirt Energy Drink 12-pack:  Robin Fisher-Tracy

s.a.l.t.y. Cosmetics Gift Set:  Heather Feimer

willulu Hand Made Jewellery wine charms:  Nancy Regan

Guardian Angels by Andrew P. Weston:  Deborah Smith Bunnell

The BackSide phone wallets:  Amanda Thandeka Niescior
                                        DG Middendorf
                                        Dora Szep
                                        Dave White

Bella Rouge Gift Set:  Felicia Nigro Ballard

Christine Peglar's Cookbok of Hope: Elizabeth Riner Splinter
                                                Stacy Bradley
                                                Deb Cacciatore
                                                Melissa Wallack
                                                Debbie Norz
                                                Joni Hazlett
                                                Nancy Regan
                                                Nicole Borota
                                                Starr Montemayor
                                                Anca Soble
                                                Beth Pekar

Calabro Chiropractic 50 Minute Massage:  Evelyn Ruhl

The NecessiTeas Tea Gift Set:  Denise Paci-Chenavier

Dolce Hair Design Free Haircut Gift Certificate:  Melissa Wallack
                                                                Michele Boyle

Take Things Personally Wine Charms, etc.:   Sly Smith
                                                            Melissa Bailey
                                                            Pauline Silva Garcia

Exotic & Domestic Wood Art Wine Table:  Tara Chevrestt

2012 Science & ProphecyOfTheAncientMaya: Linda Lopez
                                                           Charlotte Ouwerkerk
                                                           Nancy Regan
                                                           Lisa Freiling
                                                           Philippa Turner
                                                           Dora Szep
                                                           Becky Lanzano
                                                           Elizabeth Riner Splinter
                                                           Anthony Walker

EveryGirlShouldHaveASpecialGlass Drink Glasses:  Lisa Freiling

Red Stone Creations Bar Ware:   Elizabeth Riner Splinter
                                            Autumn Oertel
                                            Jose Mont
                                            Diana Passanisi
                                            Charlotte Ouwerkerk
                                            Karen Gibbons

How to Catch a Cold by Adam Newman:   Joni Hazlett
                                                        Dawn Switzer

Mr. Ghost iPhone EMF Detectors:    Daniel Lees
                                                Anthony Walker
                                                Dobronyi Alexander Selman

My AVON by Fer TheLadyinRed Gift Set:  Starr Montemayor

4ASTAR Modeling Contract:  Kelsey Parker

YouCanAlwaysFindA Flush in There by Ava Holly Lewis:  Anca Soble

Boardwalk Fresh Burgers & Fries $50 Gift Card:  Backy Lanzano

SuccessSecretsOfAMillion$PartyGirl by LynnBardowski: Colleen
                                                                         Hoffman

MommyJuice Wines Wine Glasses:  Kris Radcliffe

Audiofly Headphones:  Cheryl Sab

Javita Weightloss Coffee (1 box):  India Lipton

The Travels of Ching by Robert Bright:  Jenna Porter

GreenSwarovski Crystal Necklace by GoToWhitney:  Philippa Turner

SLIMROCK Low Calorie Bar Mixers: Allison Kaufman Tankel

Glam Fashion For Less Goodies:  Melissa Wright Keeling

"Relax" photographic print by Digital Artscape:  Joy Todaro

Old World Gourment Vinolicious:  Jennifer Eichenbaum

Jerk Daddy Tropical Catering Sauces:  Marc Ullman

Pop.N.Go Scarlet Vines Scarf:  Amy Phelps

Tanya Charlesworth Photography Package:  Dawn Amodio

Fleur de lis By Romanomics Red Flapper-Inspired Hat:  Nancy Regan

Fitness on a Swing Set by Karen Goeller:  Andria Hall

It Works! Skinny Pack by Skinny Wraps with Colleen:  Whitney Utz

Thirty-One Red Bags + Gift Certificate:  Renee Szalkowski

Viva Editions 3 book pack:  Maggie Finley

Charles Ramsey, the hero of the three kidnapped girls (Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michele Knight)– their angel – was eating McDonald's when he heard Amanda Berry cry for help and rescued her from her captor(s).  The subhuman kidnapper (whom I refuse to name, because he does NOT deserve any notoriety for his actions) had left the house that his victims were in because – he was going to get McDonald's food.

McDonald’s.

I wonder if it was the same McDonald’s that Ramsey and the kidnapper frequented.  I wonder if they passed each other on the street that day going to and from McDonald’s not knowing how they would change the course of each other’s lives, the lives of the three women in that house with the young girl, and their families.

Ironic, right?

Ever notice the irony of life sometimes? The things that we pass off as mere coincidence?  Maybe it’s not coincidence. Maybe it’s fate.

Have you ever been driving somewhere with a  destination in your head – like you were on your way to work, and have driven the same roads a thousand times before, but for some reason, you kept going straight when you should have made that right turn?  Do you ever wonder why that happened?  I do. 

Once I was on my way to a drugstore, and I made a wrong turn that didn’t make any sense to my conscious mind.  I remember feeling momentarily frustrated that I then had to backtrack to get to where I was going.  When I approached the road leading up to the store, I saw that a pretty bad traffic accident had happened about one minute before I got to that intersection on my re-routed journey.  I would have been where that now demolished car was if I had driven my usual route.  I stopped feeling so frustrated at that moment.  Did my “wrong” turn just save my life?  Maybe it wasn’t “my time” and fate or Divine intervention navigated those roads for me.  Maybe I was meant to veer off course.

You can’t tell my former co-worker that it wasn’t more than luck the day that he was late for work when the World Trade Center was attacked in 2001.  He would have been in that building had he not had to wait in a really long line for coffee that morning.  He’s alive today because he had a coffee craving, and the checkout wasn’t moving as fast as it usually was.  He’s never been so grateful for a cup of java in his life.

I’m sure you’ve heard about the stories where people have missed planes and initially were very bothered by that inconvenience, only to find out hours later that the plane went down and they were thankful that they weren’t able to board.

When I observe situations like this, I can’t help but think that everything happens for a reason. 

I’ve read a book about fate and coincidence: When God Winks:  How the Power of Coincidence Guides Your Life – by Squire Rushnell.  It has become one of my favorite books over the years.  I’m not a very religious person, and although the book references “God” in its title, it’s really not about God.   The message is about fate, divine intervention, or coincidences too strong to ignore that are sometimes life altering.  It’s about recognizing those signs in life, and when you do, embrace them, rather than dismiss them as nonconsequential.  In this book, Rushnell gives many anecdotes about the lives of those who are our friends, neighbors, and people we pass on the street, to those who are famous, and shows that they are successful and happy because they have chosen to embrace these “signs” sent their way rather than dismiss them along their life’s journeys, and appreciate them, too – the “small” miracles.

It’s kind of interesting when you think about it.

If Charles Ramsey wasn’t walking by the kidnappers’ house that day, and it were a small child instead, playing outside, or an elderly woman hard-of-hearing, or a man on his way to work – too busy to stop and looking the other way – those girls would still be locked up against their will.  It took a colorful man like Ramsey, who went with his instincts and didn’t over think things, who wasn’t too busy to rescue these girls and didn’t look the other way, to rescue them.  He had to be in the right place at the right time; not someone else, and not before or after.  Fate.  Thank God for McDonald's.

Anyone can go to school to become a bartender.  You don’t need a degree in psychology to become a server – but maybe you should!  You have to assess your clientele and cater to the customer.  Knowing what’s “top shelf” isn’t enough; you have to be “top notch” to take in the tips.

There’s more to being a bartender or waiter than pouring a shot or dropping off drinks in front of a customer.  If you follow these seemingly apparent pointers, you’ll not only acquire repeat customers, but you’ve got a great chance at making more tips than most.

If You Don’t Like People This Job Isn’t for You - Interaction with people is prominent as a bartender or waiter.  If you are not a people-person and can’t put on that smile, even if your car just broke down this morning and you’re having a bad hair day, then this job isn’t for you.  If you have a scowl on your face and could care less that I’m sitting there and let it show, well, why should I take care to count out that cash for superior service.  Smile, like you mean it, even if you don’t.   Like my grandmother always says, “Smile.  It doesn’t cost you anything,” but in this case if you don’t, it can cost you extra tips and a repeat customer in the future.

Pay Attention, but not Too Much Attention - When people go out, they want to relax, not stress over wrong drink orders or have their conversation constantly interrupted by an over-attentive waiter.  Let me tell you - I’ll always tip, but I’ll tip that extra bit if I get superior service.  You don’t have to work in a four-star restaurant to bring home quite a bit of cash for the little things that count.  When you pick up or pour, put down your problems and pay attention to the customers, first. 

There’s nothing more annoying than sitting or standing at or near a bar trying to get a bartender’s attention and they are engrossed in a conversation with another patron – for ten minutes.  You just told me that I’m not important by not even giving me a nod of your head for acknowledgement.  I get it, you’re busy, but I’d like confirmation that I’ll be served soon and that you saw me. 

Secondly, if you get my drink order right – I’ll remember that, and probably order another.  Double drinks mean double the tip.  Which brings me to my next point – if you take a drink order, it’s more than memorizing if it’s up or on the rocks.  Ask what kind of gin they would like and be prepared to make recommendations; or if someone orders a dirty martini, for example, and says they want it very dirty, be sure to take that into account, or as a server, relate that to the bartender so s/he gets the drink right.  If someone says “no olives” or “3”; “heavy on the garnish”, “salt rim” or “no salt” - or other details, if you get it right – they will show you their appreciation in the tip and/or by becoming a repeat customer and possibly bringing in new customers for you.  Your service and attention to detail as a bartender/server will put you above the rest of your competitors and people will take notice.

And finally, if you see me talking to my friend and we’re having an intent conversation, please don’t interrupt me to ask if I want peanuts.  Just plop them down and I’ll help myself if I want to.  It’s nice for you to ask if I’d like anything else when you see that my drink is near empty, but it’s really not necessary to be a noodge and ask me three or four times “How’s everything?” when you see that I’m otherwise occupied with the people I’m with.  That’s drinkus interruptus, and won’t score you points with me or an extra few bucks at the end of the night. 

Get Creative - I travel a lot.  In my travels I’ve had many experiences at different restaurants, bars, and establishments that serve alcohol.  While I enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, I’m always up for trying a new cocktail.  I admire mixologists who get creative and deviate from the usual martini menus and dabble in daring drinks – that work.  Not all concoctions are worth raving about!   (Case in point – I had a butterscotch martini the other night – and wish I hadn’t.  Not everything translates to a good cocktail.) Just like a chef, you will have a few mishaps, but that’s how some of the most surprising combinations that really “click” come about.

I’m not a bartender, but I have had numerous drinks named after me and establishments do rely on my recommendations to friends, readers, and business associates because my opinion is valued.  I’m always tactful, but truthful, if something isn’t up to par.  However, when I find something truly praise-worthy, I’m all about gushing over the goodness.  I guess this is why I’ve become a mixologist magnet.

People like to try new things.   If you are new to deviating from the drink diary, start with small substitutions like adding flavored vodka to a martini or infusing a cocktail with fresh fruit juice.  And if you’re really stuck for coming up with something innovative – there’s an app for that. (Mixology and Mr. Bartender are good to check out for starters.  Mr. Bartender allows you to shake your phone to generate a random drink recipe, and you can also add your own drink recipes and photos to the app as well.  Mixology lets you add photos and recipes, too, but only with the paid version.)  I love Mr. Bartender because of the shake factor for when I don’t know what I want to drink and don’t know how to make it.   I can just flash my phone at the bartender and we’re good to go!

Dress for Success – And that doesn’t always mean stuffy, prim, and proper – and boring – I get it – dress code isn’t up to you.  It’s up to the owner of the hotel, restaurant, or bar.  However, here’s to hoping that if you have input on what’s acceptable to wear to work that the right ears are listening.  It’s mostly about the drinks, but it’s also about the service and ambiance when someone frequents an establishment and brings in friends, family, and an entourage to follow.  Every place can’t be everything to everyone.  

If you’re a jeans and t-shirts place, then as a restaurant or bar owner, you shouldn’t have your staff dressed all stuffy.  The white button down shirts and black pants look for a bartender isn’t going to bring in the tips.  There’s a reason why the servers and bartenders in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and some beer and burger joints rake in the extra money.  It may not be PC, but the fact is, men like looking at a pretty-dressed woman behind the bar (Think Coyote Ugly).  And women, they enjoy their eye candy, too. If you hire people with personality and allow them to feel relaxed serving up cosmos and Coronas, wearing a pair of jeans to blend in with the crowd, it will bring out their best.  It’s kind of like casual Fridays at an office job – make your employees happy and customers will benefit from it, too.  At the same time, please don’t make a woman dress like a man.  You wouldn’t force a guy to get into a skirt would you?  Then really, don’t make the mixologist maiden or waiter wear a tie.  I’ve seen this.  Really?    

Patience is a Virtue - As a bartender, don’t jump right on the customer as soon as they pull up a bar stool.  Give them a minute to decide what they want to drink.  One of my biggest pet peeves is when I hear the “What can I get you?” and I’ve barely sat down.  You can acknowledge a customer by saying “Hi, how are you?” and let them take the lead.  Trust me – they know why they’re there.  Better yet, if you’ve got any drink or happy hour specials, mention them at that point.  If there’s a martini, beer, or wine menu, place it in front of them.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to search for a blackboard to find out if there was a drink special, or ask a bartender if there was a martini menu.  I love to try new things, but if I don’t know what you’ve got, I can’t read your mind. 

Then, ask the patron if you can get them some water while they decide what they would like to have.  This will give you something to do other than hover, and it will allow the customer to figure out what they want to drink.  Some people, of course, will know what they want right away. So be it.  At that point, take their order and be attentive.

I guess you can call this a list of where server etiquette lacks; but hopefully I’ve made some suggestions how to improve it, as well.  Chances are many people have worked or will work in the beverage or food service industry at some point in their lives, so why not make the most if it.  A happy customer means a better chance of you being happy with the tip, too.

Cheers!

“Tastosterone: The Best Cookbook for Men” Cooks Up Success with Recipes, Tools and Tips for Men at Work in the Kitchen

Wednesday, May 22, 2013, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Book Signing and Fundraiser to Benefit Move For Hunger, River Road Books, 759 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ

PRESS RELEASE:  Rumson, NJ (April 25, 2013) – Although male chefs dominate television and the Internet, market research shows the role of cook at home continues to fall on women. Debra Levy Picard of Rumson, NJ found that men have a desire to enter the kitchen, but the motivation, support and resources are just not available. There are dozens of books on outdoor grilling, but Picard saw a real need to write a book that simply got them cooking in the kitchen. Tastosterone: The Best Cookbook for Men offers men an attractive road map of more than 100 recipes, photographs, tools, tips and techniques to navigate around the kitchen.

Tastosterone speaks to men of all ages – the son, husband, father, single guy, newlywed, college student, retiree, divorcé and widower. A man who is confident in the kitchen will find independence, health, sex, nostalgia and love through cooking; and, although a man’s role may change throughout his life, cooking will remain a constant passion and skill. A few chapters in the book include, “Why Should Men Cook?” that explores cooking and the various stages in a man’s life; “Homage to Mom”, which hits on childhood nostalgia with the meats and potatoes of a meal; “Do You Really Need Something on The Side?” enough said; “Happy Endings”, a selection of delectable desserts; “The Dirty Dozen” common cooking mistakes; and “The Real Men Cook Quiz” that tests one’s knowledge of who really cooks among celebrity men.

According to Allrecipes, men enjoy preparing meals more than women (men 82 percent, women 75 percent). Men are also willing to spend more time preparing meals than women with 57 percent of men stating that "40 minutes to as long as it takes" is acceptable, while 52 percent of women prefer to limit cooking time to "0-40 minutes."

“Men love to cook and they’re heating up the kitchen with their confidence and enthusiasm," said Debra Levy Picard, Author, Tastosterone: The Best Cookbook for Men. "Martha Stewart has raised the bar for women in the kitchen for years. Well, I’m lowering it for men, expecting less and getting great results.” 

Tastoserone is available at River Road Books at 759 River Road in Fair Haven, NJ and on www.tastosterone.com and Amazon. Join Debra Levy Picard at River Road Books for her book signing and a sampling of recipes from her cookbook on Wednesday, May 22nd from 7:00-9:00 p.m. A suggested donation of $10 per guest is requested to support the work of Move for Hunger. A representative from the nationally recognized organization will share news about its upcoming projects at the event.

About Deborah Levy Picard

Debra Levy Picard of Rumson, NJ started cooking at the age of 14 to help her busy, working parents get dinner on the table. As a child, she remembers watching Julia Child and writing down her recipes and preparing them for her family. Julia Child’s methods taught Debra how to work around the kitchen and create dishes and presentations to entertain crowds of people. Debra also takes inspiration from TV personality, author and entrepreneur, Bethenny Frankel. She admires her passion for knowing what she wants in life and going for it. Bethenny is the founder of Skinnygirl Cocktails, author of four self-help books and host of the TV series, Bethenny. Like Bethenny, Picard also has a passion – to get guys cooking and feeling confident in the kitchen. Picard blogs at www.tastosterone.com and connects with her fans daily on Facebook at Tastosterone: The Best Cookbook for Men and on Twitter @Tastosterone.

About Move for Hunger

Move For Hunger was established to strengthen the efforts of its communities’ food banks, while actively engaging in America’s hunger fight. By using the nonprofit organization’s unique knowledge and experience, Move For Hunger has leveraged its existing national network of transportation companies to create one of the nation’s largest, year-round service programs. www.moveforhunger.com

Are you a fan of American Idol?   Are you looking for something more realistic and less rehearsed?  Well, four-time Grammy winner, Kuk Harrell has got something better.  He doesn’t just launch stars, he launches superstars into the celebrity stratosphere like Cher, Usher, Katy Perry, Celine Dion, Chris Brown, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, Leona Lewis, Lionel Richie, Beyoncé, Rihanna, JLo, Lea Michele, and Justin Bieber - and now he’s doing it with “Kuk Harrell’s Worldwide Internet Talent Search” (also known as “Who’s Next?”) It’s a way for him to find the next superstar.  Let me explain -  but first, let me give you some background on this music magic making man.

So, as I sat in my office speaking to “the man behind the music”, as coined by The New York Times, for the first time on the phone, I was informed very casually that he was on his way to Cher’s house.  Yes, Cher.  And while most people would probably be sitting there and be partially star struck, all I could feel pulsing through my veins was that I have to knock this interview out of the ballpark – I have to make this one count more than ever.  Why? Because this man, is becoming one of those names that needs no introduction, nor explanation, nor last name in the entertainment industry - and I want to say I knew it when…

 “I believe that in my journey I'm supposed to be one of those people that finds superstars and releases them,” says Kuk Harrell in one of his YouTube videos.  He can say that, too.  He’s worked with the biggest names in R&B & pop and considered the best vocal producer in the industry. 

“This is the season that Rihanna and Justin Bieber are on the road, so right now I’m working with the legendary Cher, and Lea Michele [of Glee],” said Harrell with much modesty.  (Both Cher and Lea Michele are releasing new albums very soon.)

He speaks of his work with these superstars as if he does it every day; well – he does.  There’s no time to get nervous or hung up on the fact that you are in the same room with highly successful people.  I get it.  When you are in an industry where you are a creator and instrumental to fostering the success of others, you constantly push yourself to the next level, and to do something more spectacular than before.  You channel your energy into a tunnel vision focus and don’t even stop to ask yourself “Is this really happening?” 

Harrell agrees with me - “Well, it’s the same as you.  I know that I am considered an expert at what I do, so I know that there is a job to do; and more importantly the artist needs to feel comfortable - so I just keep my mind on the job at hand. I’m motivated by the fact that these superstars rely on me to bring out the best in them.”

This native Midwesterner goes by his nickname, “Kuk”, which comes from a show called “Kukla Fran and Ollie”.  His family said that he looked like Kukla, back in the day, who was a little puppet.  As a kid he watched his mom and her 2 sisters sing background for Aretha Franklin, so he knew from a young age he always wanted to work in the music industry.

Since then, he’s come very far as the founder of Suga Wuga Music, Inc. (an artist development company), a song writer, vocal producer, album producer, and he has won four Grammys for  “Umbrella” (Rihanna) (He co-wrote it.), the “Growing Pains” album by Mary J. Blige, “Single Ladies” (Beyoncé), and “Only Girl in the World” (Rihanna).  Since he’s been surrounded by these talented people, his eyes and ears have been trained to hone in on the “it” factor for people that can become superstars.

“I always wanted to be big in the industry, but never knew when or how it would happen.  I knew my career had taken off when I realized that the top artists were calling me to capture magic with their voices. I decided to go out on my own, because I feel like everything changes; and in order for me to do all of the things that are in my heart to do, I had to be the person making the decisions about my career, and moving out on them when I felt it was time to move…to make sure I was moving with the times...always taking advantage of all of the new technology at hand,” says Harrell about his own aspirations to excel as a superstar launcher in the music industry, and what the turning point in his career was for him.

"A lot of producers can find artists, but I'm looking for superstars. There's an "it" factor in Rihanna, There's an "it" factor in Justin Bieber.

Harrell wants to discover these artists, hone in on their talents and develop them, and take them to brand companies.  His goal is to cut out the middleman, and put himself, and Suga Wuga Music, in that place, and give companies an artist with great music and let that run.

 “This is the YouTube generation.  People are going out there and recording their own music and getting a million hits.  But we don’t have the development.  No one has the passion to develop the talent anymore.  That’s where I come in,” says Harrell on YouTube.

All of this is what has led him to the culmination of “Who’s Next?” a.k.a.  “Kuk Harrell’s Worldwide Internet Talent Search” -  a web production where anyone can perform a song in a YouTube video, and then tweet @KukHarrell the link to it with the tag #WhosNext.  He views it, and then he determines who makes it to final groups.  He looks for people in his Worldwide Internet Talent Search who have a distinct quality to their voice.  (You know, you can close your eyes and hear someone sing and know who it is right away.) Once he has selected final groups, he conducts a web cam interview with everyone in those groups chosen and posts it on YouTube.

This is the first season of the series, and it is underway.

“It’s a game changer. The internet struck a blow to the industry because the industry wasn’t ready for it.  This [Worldwide Internet Talent Search] gets rid of the big old machine that gets in the way of the talent that really should be heard,” says Harrell.

“I have a Slogan for Suga Wuga Music, and that is "Who's Next?" And It's not just who's next as an artist, but it's who's next as a person that is in charge of what I call a gatekeeper for the industry,” he continues on YouTube.

“…at this point I am the only judge/mentor for Who’s Next.  It’s really important to me at this point, because that’s what’s missing in the industry right now…someone who is actively making records now, with a hit track record, that has a true desire to not just judge aspiring artists, but mentor and develop them.  After the interview with all the contestants, I ultimately find my one artist that I want to sign to my Suga Wuga Entertainment, [and] mentor them through the artist development process. Me and my team will write a record for them, release it worldwide, and have them debut on “Marie” -  Marie Osmond’s talk show on the Hallmark Channel.  There are: Submissions to Top 20, Top 10, Top 5 then the final 1.

The first season is in full swing and you can follow “Kuk Harrell’s Worldwide Internet Talent Search?” on Kuk Harrell’s YouTube Channel, and catch up on past contestants, too. He always gives updates on Twitter when a new performance is on deck.

“All of my top 20 are special to me because I see things in them that other people don’t - but it’s too early to reveal who are my special picks thus far,” Harrell says when I ask him if he’s got his eye on a particular shining star that he’s seen perform so far.

He does look for certain qualities in those competing.

“First is the way they are with people. Do they know how to interact with people well?  Then the gift, confidence, and the ever popular swag! Do they get everybody’s attention when they walk in the room?”

It’s the total package, I think.  You need more than talent.  It all has to come together, like with the Savannah Van Band (Savannah Van, Matt Kwa, Nico Aranda, Ronnie Manaog, and Alex Strahle).

The Savannah Van Band recently contracted with Suga Wuga Music and is one of those talents just waiting to break the barrier with Harrell’s finely tuned artist development skills. (Check out their new single "Maintain" - LOVE IT! This song speaks to me!)

It may seem obvious that people can’t just knock on Kuk Harrell’s door and expect him to take them on as clients.  You’d have to take a seat behind Cher, and Rihanna, for example.  He’s got agents contacting him on behalf of well-known artists, and he’s also selecting new talent via “Who’s Next?”.  His advice for those trying to make it into the music industry and get noticed is to use the new model for anyone wanting to get discovered –  social media!

With everyone wanting to grab that next Grammy, you might wonder how he selects from among the already big names out there who to work with next when they come to him.

“More than anything I look at personality. Even though the artist is a superstar that doesn’t mean that we will get along in the studio. A very important part of what I do with the artist is creating an environment of comfort for them.  When we get into the process of recording, the artist and I become very like-minded. That’s how I get the best out of them. If our personalities don’t work, I usually pass on the project because the fact that we don’t mesh shows in the final product.”

It makes sense. People either “click” or they don’t, and if you want to create something amazing, there has to be chemistry.

Harrell told me that the most fun projects he’s worked on in the past are, “For starters the co-writing of “Umbrella” - then Bieber’s Christmas album, Believe, and all of Rihanna’s last three albums.”

It would be hard to narrow his list down! So much star quality music!

He does say that he would love to work with Rihanna again if he could pick someone.

“I always love working with all my clients, but I would have to say Rihanna. I love how we come together to create great work. She does her part and she trusts me.  She doesn’t micro manage,” he says.

Kuk Harrell has been quoted as saying he “takes an artist vocally to where they’ve never been before” – so that may leave you wondering exactly how does he do that?   It almost sounds magical. The people he works with already have extraordinary talent yet he pushes that limit so the artists exceed their own expectations.  This is something very unique to Harrell.

Harrell explains that, “Because I’m a vocalist as well, I know what I’m listening for.  When the artist sings that perfect performance, I hear it, call it, and move on to the next section or line. Having vocal ability, and having listened to so many singers all my life, I have a deep understanding and a deep mental and sonic library of what a performance should sound and feel like.”

That’s like “when you see it, you’ll know it” – or in Harrell’s case – when he hears it, he just knows it.  That is his talent – just knowing that star quality. He’s the man with the golden ear and the expert eye for spotting the next musical artist to make it big.

The “it” factor is not just having talent, but having the drive to keep at it, and the direction to steer yourself in, too.  You have to have the combination of looks, talent, confidence, and drive to become well-known; but to become a superstar, you need to be able to tap into that formula for success and repeat that magic over and and over again – like Madonna, Cher, Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber, Sting, and Rihanna.  If you can’t repeat the “magic” when you have that “It” factor, you become a one-hit-wonder.

“My “it” factor is first and foremost the fact that God gave me the gift, talents, and desires to do what I do! With that viewpoint for me, I stay focused on the job at hand, not who I’m doing it with,” shares Harrell, when I had asked him what makes him magical.

Harrell does what he does because he loves it.  That’s when you know you have found your true calling.  So what’s next? for him?  He told me that he will keep on nurturing and discovering superstar talent for the rest his life.

“… I will! Because not only is it what I love but it’s my calling, destiny!”

“And I would say for Suga Wuga Music, I'm next.  Being the next person to discover talent and launch them.”

If you think you've got what it takes to be "Who's Next?", check out the video below, courtesy of "Kuk Harrell's Worldwide Internet Talent Search".  Make a video singing your favorite song, and tweet it to @KukHarrell with hashtag #WhosNext. You never know - you could be the next superstar.

PRESS RELEASE:  Trenton, NJ (April 1, 2013) – Enjoy local wine, live jazz music and help raise funds for New Jersey's environment at the EarthShare Celebrates New Jersey Awards Reception and Wine Tasting on April 12, 2013 from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. at Laurita Winery at 35 Archerton Road, New Egypt, NJ.

For the past five years, EarthShare New Jersey (ESNJ) has recognized the environmental accomplishments of individuals and companies making a difference in NJ’s environment at its annual event. In 2013 ESNJ honors Candace McKee Ashmun with its Environmental Stewardship Award and the Environmental Leadership Award will be presented to Phillips-Van Heusen.

EarthShare Celebrates NJ’s Annual Stewardship and Leadership Awards recognize individuals and corporations that demonstrate ongoing commitments to the protection of New Jersey’s environment through leadership, corporate action, philanthropic support and community awareness.  Previous winners have included William de Camp, founder and former Executive Director of Save Barnegat Bay, Tom Gilmore, former President of NJ Audubon, New Jersey Natural Gas, iCIMS, PSEG and Prudential.

The evening will also feature a photography exhibition showcasing the natural beauty of NJ, an ecofriendly auction, 50/50 raffle, light refreshments, dessert, a wine tasting and live jazz by Stringzville. There are over 60 fantastic items in the auctions. Highlights include: two VIP tickets to The Colbert Report, an autographed Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band album cover, autographed Bon Jovi drum cover, autographed New York Giants football, wine refrigerator, Panera Bread for a Year Plus, and NJ experiences from across the state that include overnight excursions and theatre tickets.

Tickets are $45 and available for purchase at www.earthsharenj.org ($50 at the door). Call (609) 989-1160 with any questions or to purchase tickets by phone.

2013 Beauty in NJ’s Nature Photography CompetitionEarthShare New Jersey will announce the winner of its 2013 Beauty in Nature Photography Competition at EarthShare Celebrates New Jersey on April 12th. Over 70 photographers entered the contest and 140 images were selected that best showcased NJ’s diverse natural resources. 

About EarthShare Celebrate NJ’s Awardees

Candace Ashmun
Candace Ashmun is Vice President of The Fund for New Jersey and consultant to the New Jersey Conservation Foundation. Truly an ecological pioneer, Ashmun is more than deserving of this honor. For more than forty years, she has been working to protect and preserve the state’s environment and public health. She began her career as a water quality researcher for the Raritan Watershed Association, but quickly moved on to found and organize the Association for New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC), serving for many years as its executive director. Ashmun was one of the first appointees to the NJ Pinelands Commission and has served on that body continuously ever since. She was also appointed to the original NJ State Planning Commission, where she served several terms. She started the environmental collegium, which today is known as the Environmental Summit and also founded the Coalition for Affordable Housing and the Environment (CAHE), where she continues to serve on its board.

Phillips-Van Heusen
For years, Phillips-Van Heusen has not only provided its employees with the ability to support environmental causes through a charitable giving program (PVH Cares), but has also provided employees with environmental education opportunities through lunch and learns, Earth Day activities, volunteer experiences and more. The company has supported Green Teams and the implementation of programs and policies to create a more environmentally friendly workplace. This includes the construction of solar panels and a firm commitment and action toward the reduction of the company’s carbon footprint worldwide. In the manufacturing component of the business, Phillips-Van Heusen has taken a bold step in committing to the vision of zero discharge of hazardous chemicals from the company’s entire supply chain within one generation.

About EarthShare New Jersey
EarthShare New Jersey was founded in 1994 when 16 of the state’s leading environmental organizations joined forces to raise funds through workplace contribution programs. The organization now provides funds to more than 65 local and national environmental groups and has raised more than $5 million in employee contributions from over 60 workplaces. www.earthsharenj.org