SundayPaper.com

Nominate your hero

Kevin — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 17:09:00 GMT

Nominate someone you know for The Sunday Paper’s inaugural Unsung Heroes Award.

Say farewell to Bush

Kirsten — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:09:00 GMT

Bush has been a real pain in our asses for far too long. And now Bliss Spa is helping you to get rid of Bush with a discount on its painless-as-possible bikini waxing.

During the transition from one president to another, get 20 percent off Bliss Spa's signature Brazilian bikini wax, plus any waxing and post-waxing products you buy. (My fave: Get Out of Hair, a body lotion to soothe post-waxed and post-shaved skin, plus minimize ingrown hairs with willow bark extract.)

Offer valid Jan. 19 to Feb. 1.

Book your appointment now through Blissworld.com or by calling 877-862-5477 (TO-BLISS). Be sure to mention "Farewell to Bush" at checkout.

Bliss Atlanta-Midtown is nestled in the W Midtown (188 14th St NE). Hours are 9 a.m.-9 p.m., seven days a week. Reach them directly at 404-685-3510.

Soda Salon & Gallery: five years and counting

Kirsten — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:03:00 GMT

Soda Salon & Gallery, located in both Roswell and Glenwood Park, is celebrating its five year anniversary this month with exclusive promotions and coupons just in time for the holidays. Throughout the holiday season, clients enjoy 20 percent off any gift certificates purchased, 20 percent off purchase of two or more Kerastase products, and a complementary Kerastase treatment ($35 value) with a formal up-do or blow-out appointment. Visit www.sodasalon.com for more information.

Pichón: Race and Revolution in Castro’s Cuba

Kirsten — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:37:00 GMT

Author Carlos Moore will host an event in Atlanta this Sunday to celebrate the release of his new memoir "Pichón: Race and Revolution in Castro’s Cuba" (Lawrence Hill Books, an imprint of Chicago Review Press, November 2008).
Moore will give a joint presentation about race in Cuba with Afro-Cuban painter Tomás Esson. The event is free and open to the public, and takes place on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2008, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Hammonds House Gallery (503 Peeples Street, SW, Atlanta, GA 30310).
"Pichón" is a compelling autobiography that reveals Moore’s lifelong resistance to the official denial of the racial realities he perceived in Cuba. It’s particularly timely considering that President-elect Obama’s intended initiatives to loosen travel restrictions and consider direct talks with Cuba would be a significant change to U.S. foreign policy.

Yes to equality, no on prop 8

Kirsten — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 18:06:00 GMT

I’m a lesbian planning on marrying my partner in the spring of next year. When we wed, we (under current laws) will not be able to obtain a marriage certificate, nor will we qualify for the hundreds of tax benefits granted to straight married couples in this country. If one of us ends up in the ICU section of the hospital where only immediate family is allowed, we might be denied access to be there for our loved one. If a tragedy should occur and major medical decisions must be made for one of us, our marriage will not automatically grant us the right to have our pleas to keep the other one on life support recognized, should our families disagree. We will have to jump through ridiculous hoops to change my last name to hers, and when we have children, our family will have to be closely examined to determine if my wife can adopt the children I bore. Gay adoption isn't even allowed in Cobb County, where we were living, hence our recent move to Fulton.

This is the state of Georgia, where gays and lesbians are treated like second-class citizens and denied the basic right of marriage to the ones we love. It’s been my hope that we will evolve to be like California and grant gays and lesbians the rights to marry.

But with the recent overturning of Proposition 8, the proposed amendment to the California State Constitution that would eliminate same-sex couples’ right to marry, everything seems in jeopardy. On a historic day when America got its first black president and the civil rights movement for African-Americans advanced beyond many people’s wildest dreams, the basic rights for the GLBT community was snatched away from us. It sickens me, and I’m beyond sad.

The decisions made in California directly impact us in Georgia and everywhere else. Atlantans are gathering this weekend to support gay equality with organized events, and I encourage everyone who believes in civil rights to attend.

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community will be joined by friends, families and allies to support gay marriage equality at two events scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 15, 2008. At 1:30 p.m, a protest will take place at the Georgia State Capitol. A candlelight vigil will follow at 5PM at the corner of 10th St. and Piedmont Ave.

The protest and vigil will be part of the nation-wide efforts coordinated by grassroots-organization Join the Impact. The events will show solidarity in support of LGBTQ equality and in opposition to Proposition 8.

For the LGBTQ community and its supporters, last week’s historic election was undercut by the disheartening reality that 52 percent of Californians voted to take away civil rights for same-sex couples. Currently in the United States, same-sex couples in long-term, committed relationships are denied over 1,000 benefits and protections granted to their married counterparts. For example, they are denied the right to visit a hospitalized partner, the right to Social Security survivor benefits, and the right to unpaid leave from work to take care of an ill spouse.

Vigil organizer Scott Touchstone stated, “It is fundamentally unfair and unconstitutional to deny to some citizens the rights and protections given to others.”

Organizers want both the protest and the vigil to be peaceful shows of support for California’s LGBTQ community and a step in the right direction for ensuring that all Americans are treated fairly.

Join the Impact invites all Atlantans who believe in justice for the LGBTQ community to bring a sign (less than 2”x2”) to the protest at the State Capitol at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 15 and a candle to the vigil at the corner of 10th St. and Piedmont Ave.

For more, visit www.jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/page/Georgia.

Win a $1k Gift Card and Early Entry into Select Best Buy Locations on Black Friday

Kirsten — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:51:00 GMT

Best Buy is looking for consumers in 25 cities to share how Black Friday shopping is an important holiday tradition for them and their family, and what kinds of rituals they have to make the morning after Thanksgiving an enjoyable kick off to the holiday season.

French connection

Kirsten — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:34:00 GMT

There are many theories about the famous red sole of the shoes created by Parisian designer Christian Louboutin. Most say the red soles of the luxury shoes came about after Louboutin grabbed a bottle of red nail polish from an assistant who was doing her nails nearby and painted the soles. But sources close to the designer say he originally got his inspiration at a much younger age, before he even began designing shoes. Find out for yourself this Friday from 1-4 p.m. at Jeffrey in Phipps Plaza where M. Louboutin makes his first visit to the ATL to meet, greet and sign red soles for the shoe-enviable. Recession? Yes. Great Depression No. 2? Maybe, but Jeffrey manager Don Purcell is anticipating a footwear-feeding frenzy, even at price points hovering around $1,000 a pair. Ooh la la!
Jeffrey is located inside Phipps Plaza at 3500 Peachtree Road NE, 404-237-9000.

Calling all fashionistas

Kirsten — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:15:00 GMT

Head to Phipps Plaza Thursday, October 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. for the 80th anniversary celebration for Cole Haan, a premier luxury lifestyle brand offering men’s and women’s footwear, accessories and outerwear. Meet acclaimed jewelry designer Anna Sheffield, who recently designed two limited edition jewelry collections for Cole Haan, and Cole Haan’s CEO Jim Seuss, while enjoying cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a 20 percent discount off all merchandise.

At last

Kirsten — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:13:00 GMT

After a month of incredibly hard work, I've completed the program at Operation Boot Camp! Read my latest blog entry here, along with a full month of daily entries.

Big Boi's wife's boutique going out of business

Kirsten — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:55:00 GMT

Sherlita Patton (wife of Antwan "Big Boi" Patton) and Tracy Valentine's fabulously fashionable P Valentine boutique is closing up shop, despite their celebrity clientele. The store is dropping prices dramatically to rid themselves of inventory. The last open day is Thursday, so scoot over there before all the goods are gone forever.

Welcome to Atlanta where the manta ray plays

Kirsten — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:29:00 GMT

The Georgia Aquarium just announced the addition of a female manta ray named Nandi to the 6.3 million gallon Ocean Voyager gallery. Nandi makes Georgia Aquarium the only aquarium in the United States to ever house a manta ray and one of only four aquariums in the world to display this species. Nandi will join four whale sharks and thousands of other animals in the world’s largest aquarium exhibit. No shrinking violet, Nandi, who measures more than nine feet across and weighs approximately 456 lbs, flew 9,000 miles on a chartered 747-200 aircraft from Durban, South Africa through Cape Verde, Africa, to Atlanta. The manta ray was under the care and supervision of Georgia Aquarium and uShaka Marine World professional staff and maintained by a highly advanced marine life support system. Nandi was rescued from shark nets off the coast of Durban, South Africa, in April 2007 and rehabilitated by uShaka Marine World, the largest marine park in Africa. She has lived in uShaka for the past year, but we're pleased as punch that Nandi's here in the ATL for us to see her.

Where We're People-Watching

Kevin — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:49:00 GMT

1. FREEDOM PARK: Lots of attractive Atlantans and their four-legged friends play Frisbee, do a little jogging and soak up some sun at this pretty Piedmont alternative.

2. DOWNTOWN DECATUR: Shoppers with loads of bags roam the streets, and there’s plenty of patio real estate to relax and have a drink while you take in the scene.

3. FLAT SHOALS ROAD: Tatted-up biker types, local hipsters, longtime East Atlanta residents and the occasional freaked-out suburbanite make for a great mix.

4. TURNER FIELD (pictured): Sports fans can look pretty funny when they get all worked up. And this is one of the places you’re actually encouraged to scream at the top of your lungs.

Photo: Scott Cunningham/Getty Images

Find some new blogs to read (besides ours)

Kirsten — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 21:20:00 GMT

Regator, the blog aggregator that acts like a mix between a standard RSS reader and Digg, has launched in public beta. Check it out at regator.com.

Spendthrift

Kirsten — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 19:38:00 GMT

Has the recession hit your closet-stocking habit? Hit up the Warehouse sale this weekend for a premium denim sample sale featuring such brands as Ed Hardy, Christian Audigier, SMET, William Rast, True Religion, Rock & Republic and more, for up to 80 percent off. 2-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at the Georgia World Congress Center. For more information, visit www.thewarehousesale.com.

Celebrity birthdays of the week

Kevin — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 10:00:00 GMT

New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez is 33 on July 27. What to get a rich baseball player? Since he’s allegedly dating Madonna, how about a tetanus shot? We’re just sayin’ …

Atlanta hip-hop performer Soulja Boy hits the big 1-8 on July 28. And we’re sure he’ll celebrate the big day like the mature young gentleman he is.

Academy Award-winning “90210” alum Hilary Swank is 34 on July 30. She and Mr. Ed—separated at birth? Discuss.

Bodybuilder, politician and bad actor Arnold Schwarzenegger is 61 on July 30. Could he be the first robot president of the United States?

“Harry Potter” creator J.K. Rowling is 43 on July 31. For her birthday, she plans to buy all of England—just because she can.

“Blade,” “Blade II,” “Blade: Trinity”—make it stop! Actor and tax evader Wesley Snipes is 46 on July 31.

Rapper Coolio (pictured) is known for “Gangster’s Paradise” … and that’s about it, really. He turns 45 on Aug. 1.

Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images

What We're Celebrating

Kevin — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 11:00:00 GMT

1. Nap Day (July 20, pictured): Thanks—don’t mind if we do.

2. National Junk Food Day (July 21): Chances are, anyone who observes this holiday probably doesn’t need an excuse to eat Cheetos, anyway.

3. 45th Anniversary of Froot Loops (July 22): We hear the current Toucan Sam is a fake: The original developed a drinking problem, was arrested for tax evasion and now resides in Bolivia.

4. Mosquito Day (July 23): Insert obligatory “that’s every day in the South!” joke here.

5. Instant Coffee Day (July 24): Mmmm! Watery, transparent “Hazelnut Delight” in the break room for everyone!

6. First Birthday Cake Day (July 25): The birthday cake was created in 55 B.C. Anyone got a line on 2,063 candles?

7. National Aunts and Uncles Day (July 26): Celebrating decades of cheek-pinching and awkward, forced gratitude for that special birthday sweater.

Photo by Maria Dryfhout

Chain gang

Kirsten — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:46:00 GMT

We love local fashion designers, especially when they're close to our heart, like SP's very own web developer and graphic designer Kristina Ackerman. The snazzy crafter debuts her jewelry line, Gangbusters, at the Atlantic Station Market tonight, from 5 to 10 p.m. The cool collection is comprised of nearly 200 never-before-seen Gangbusters pieces, from comic books to vintage magazines to pretty florals, all ready to be worn. By you. And in honor of The Dark Night—which, if you haven't yet seen it, is the perfect excuse to be at Atlantic Station this evening—Ackerman says she'll have a couple dozen excellent Batman pendants on display... perfect for you or the Batman fanatic in your life. Can't make it tonight? Shop her Etsy e-boutique anytime by clicking here.

Home Sweet Home

Kirsten — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:08:00 GMT

OK, so it's a terrible time to try to sell a home. That's no secret. It's certainly an OK time to buy one. But it's always a good time to get something for free, yes? And who wouldn't want a new home? T-Mobile's giving one away at its National Open House on July 12, 2008, from noon to 4 p.m. at Peachtree Center (235 Peachtree Street Ne Ste C-29f, Atlanta, GA 30303). The T-Mobile Ultimate Home Giveaway is your chance to win a new home or other great prizes, and it's the phone company's chance to tell you about its new T-Mobile at Home service (home phone service with unlimited nationwide calling for just $10 a month). If you're the lucky winner, make sure you invite us to your killer housewarming party!

Happy Pride!

Kirsten — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 17:43:00 GMT

This weekend's for celebrating -- not just in the sense of "proud to be an American," but also in the "proud to be gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and any other category you might happen to fall in because you were born a certain way and damn it, you embrace yourself" sense. Yes, Atlanta Gay Pride is upon us, my friends. If you like it, come celebrate. If you don't, put your angry "gays are spawns of Satan, but I still wear wool and eat pork" Bible-beating signs down and give it a rest already.

Why we celebrate...

What the hell is Atlanta Gay Pride, anyway? It's certainly not just a flamboyant show of feathers and leather. It's far more meaningful. Typically, Atlanta Gay Pride takes place in late June (the third weekend, to be exact) to honor the historic Stonewall Riots, which took place June 28, 1969. The event was a major catalyst for the GLBT community as it helped us develop a very strong and unified front. Standing together, we were going to fight back ... again and again. With organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign lobbying for our rights in Congress and California legalizing gay marriage, progress continues to be made, though we're far from true equality. As we band together during Pride, we're embracing our community for all that it is -- a veritable rainbow of bright personalities from all walks of life, be it attorneys and surgeons, teachers and police officers, military and artists, CEOs and sanitation workers, editors and accountants, restaurateurs and ministers, neighbors and friends. Together, we celebrate our similarities and our differences -- proudly.

What to do this weekend...

Because of the drought, Pride's 3-day celebration has been moved to the 4th of July weekend and from Piedmont Park to the Atlanta Civic Center. There's a plethora of activities this weekend to celebrate Atlanta Gay Pride, not just at the Atlanta Civic Center and the parade, but also at all the gay and lesbian bars around town.

The main Atlanta Pride event is the three-day Atlanta Pride Festival, which takes place this year downtown at the Atlanta Civic Center (395 Piedmont Ave. NE). The festival kicks off at 6 pm on Friday, July 4, and lasts until 11 p.m. The next two days, Saturday and Sunday, the festival continues at the park, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day. Admission is free, and during the festival there's live music and comedy; a Pride Market featuring dozens of vendors, GLBT organizations and crafters; and a variety of forums and ceremonies.

Entertainment at Atlanta Pride is extensive and varied, and typically includes movies, concerts, cabaret and fashion shows. On Saturday, the Festival presents the first of two big parades, the Dyke March, which starts at 6 pm. The Atlanta Pride Parade is held on Sunday afternoon at 1 pm.

Happy Pride!

HOW WE'RE COOLING OFF

Kevin — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:22:00 GMT

1. LICKING THE SNOW: For just under two bucks, you can’t beat the big-kid sno-cones at Cajun restaurant Just Loaf’n to battle southern summer heat. www.justloafn.net.

2. HIDING OUT AT THE CHOP HOUSE: The best place to be if you want to chill out with a drink during a Braves game. But get there early, because once the outside temp hits 90 degrees, the place fills up fast. www.braves.mlb.com.

3. VISITING THE FROZEN TUNDRA: Fernbank’s IMAX theatre lets you choose between screenings of “Antarctica” (pictured) or “Alaska: Spirit of the Wild” all summer long. Air conditioning included in ticket price. www.fernbankmuseum.org.

4. SAMPLING INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS: Scoops of the tasty Limoncello and Green Tea gelatos at Paolo’s Gelatos sure hit the spot—and watching the irrepressible Paolo Dalla Zorza in action is a treat in itself. www.paolosgelato.com.

H&M Atlantic Station Photos!

Sunday — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 21:17:00 GMT

I promised photos of the H&M Atlantic Station opening in my post earlier today. Here they are!

850 people were in line when the store opened. Kirstin Aper from Newnan was at the front. She arrived at 2:30 the previous day and camped out with a friend.

Photos by Jason Mallory.

This is the line wrapping around the building when we arrive.

More people waiting in line.

Again, the line.

In front of the main entrance, the H&M staff get are huddled together.

Everyone is ready.

Some of these people have been waiting overnight.

The staff are dancing, and getting excited about the big opening.

On the red carpet.

I have no idea who she is but she is excited to see the SP camera.

These two have been in line for almost a full day!

Kirstin Aper, at the front of the line!

The official ribbon cutting.

I don't think anyone is going to try to sneak past this guy. No matter how nice he looks.

Ready, Set ...

Go!

This guy doesn't play around. He's already rockin' an H&M card.

The line is finally moving.

And that's it. Do you see yourself in any of these shots?

Drop us a comment with your experience.

Rich Aviles

Welcome to Your New Favorite Store

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 19:05:00 GMT

Wednesday evening I had the opportunity to attend an early viewing of the new H&M store at Atlantic Station. Never having been in an H&M store before, I was very impressed with the quality of the clothes and the prices. The two-story building carries a variety of styles, from basic t-shirts and jeans, to evening wear, catering not just to women, but men, babies and children as well. You’ll definitely be able to find what you’re looking for and then some without breaking the bank. H&M is sure to attract a crowd when it opens Friday, June 13 at noon.

Your New Favorite Store

Meryl — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 07:14:00 GMT

Wednesday evening, I attended an early viewing of the new H&M store at Atlantic Station. Never having been in an H&M before, I was very impressed with the quality of the clothes and the prices. The two-story building carries a variety of styles, from basic T-shirts and jeans to evening wear, catering not just to women, but men, babies and children as well. You’ll definitely be able to find what you’re looking for, and then some, without breaking the bank. H&M is a welcome addition to Atlantic Station (and Atlanta), and is sure to attract a crowd when it opens Friday, June 13, at noon. Get there early to score tees and gift cards.

Do it for the kids

Kirsten — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:10:00 GMT

With a terrible heat wave, a hike in gas prices and a looming recession, we could all use some good karma. Why not use that money you’ve been hording for Elvis’ next concert or to put toward Hillary’s campaign (too little, too late) toward something that really will make a difference?

This Friday, June 13, is the March of Dimes 24th annual Dining Out Event with an after-party at Opera Nightclub. The decadent dinner takes place at 7 p.m. at participating restaurants, including Aria, Canoe, JOËL, Trois, Cuerno and Pricci, at a price tag of $1,000 or $1,500 for a table of eight or 10, depending on the restaurant selection. After a super VIP dining experience worth every penny (think of the babies!), head to Opera to burn off some of those calories and indulge in tasty cupcakes by Sweet Pockets bakery.

What’s March of Dimes, you say? It’s a stellar organization that helps improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education and advocacy to save babies and, in 2003, launched a campaign to address the increasing rate of premature birth. For more information, visit the March of Dimes Web site at www.marchofdimes.com/georgia.

Tickets for dinner and the after-party are still available. For information on hosting a table or purchasing tickets, visit www.marchofdimes.com/georgia or contact Jennifer Cobb at 404.350.9800 x 208. After-party tickets are included with the table purchase, but individual tickets to the after-party can be purchased for $40 also by contacting Jennifer.

Community Yard Sale

Kirsten — Mon, 12 May 2008 14:20:00 GMT

Yearning for yard sale bargains? ‘Tis the season, and CRoP has just the event.

WHO: Christian Rites of Passage (CRoP) Youth

WHAT: Community-wide Yard Sale includes food and entertainment to enhance your shopping experience

WHEN: Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Cascade United Methodist Church (UMC) Parking Lot, located at 3144 Cascade Rd. SW, Atlanta, GA 30311

WHY: Support future leaders, network and fellowship with the local community and Cascade UMC members

DONATE: your gently used items on May 14-16 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the rear entrance of Cascade UMC and receive a tax write-off form for your contribution.

**Inclement weather? Come to the back entrance of Cascade UMC Fellowship Hall.**

For more information, log onto www.christianritesofpassageinc.org or contact Shari Blalock at 678-386-5393 or Ida Crook at 770-973-1373.

Shop, Girl

Kirsten — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:22:00 GMT

Here comes the sun. Grab your shades, and head to two fabulous shopping events:

Tonight, Thursday, April 24, in Morningside at Fickle Manor, from 6 to 9 p.m., three local designers present their haute spring/summer wares: Olive, a line of girlie, vintage-y dresses; Aquanada Jewelry; and Ann Roth Shoes.

Saturday, April 26, at Form .02 (101 E. Court Square, Decatur, 404-378-1214), get the latest in spring and summer looks for men, women and children from local boutiques Boogaloos, Kaleidoscope, Squash Blossom. Drinks/food from Twain's, the Brick Store and other area restaurants. Jenn Hobby of Q100 hosts & DJ Christo spins. $20 entry fee.

Hello Darla

Kirsten — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 20:41:00 GMT

Join me and tons of other shopaholics for a big fashionable bash in honor of the arrival of Darla, a new exclusive membership organization for Atlanta's shopping elite!
WHEN: Thursday, April 17, from 7 to 10 p.m.
WHERE: Tribute Lofts in the Old Fourth Ward.
WHAT: A fun-filled evening of surprises, sweeping views of Atlanta's skyline, complimentary cocktails, Peroni beer, nibbles galore courtesy of Marlow's Tavern, yummy gift bags and more! You can also be the first to sign up for a Darla Charter Membership (limited number available) and get a chance to win an array of fabulous prizes from Darla's favorite spots, including Veruca, Adaptation Floral Design, Cafe Physique, The Blue Corset Co., Squash Blossom, Hoopla, Fickle Manor, Soda Salon, Shiami Doors and Inman Park Pet Works.
GET ON THE LIST: RSVP to Caren West PR at rsvp@carenwestpr.com.

Spring is in the air

Kirsten — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 16:30:00 GMT

So shop it up! Thursday, March 20, from 7 to 9 p.m., on the rooftop of the Tribute Lofts in the Old Fourth Ward for casual cocktails and shopping. Enjoy one of the best views of Atlanta, while perusing the latest goods from Veruca Boutique, Amanda Gary Handbags, Joyeux Home + Garden, Adaptation Floral Designs, Bou Cou jewelry, Marcellina G. - Modern Vintage Jewelry, and Hi Heels Boutique. RSVP to Caren West PR at rsvp@carenwestpr.com or 404.614.0006. Ample parking is available. Enter on John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Kevin — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 04:30:00 GMT

You’ve wanted to spruce up your house for ages—now’s the time to look for inspiration. The ATLANTA HOME SHOW starts today and continues through Sunday at the Georgia World Congress Center. Admission is $10 for adults and $3 for ages 6 to 12. Children 5 and under and senior citizens are admitted free. 770-998-9800. www.atlantahomeshow.com.

Money is in the air

Kirsten — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 19:30:00 GMT

If you've left your home in the past two months--and some of you probably haven't--you know there are enough colds and flu viruses out there to knock over most any upstanding citizen. Oh, you'll just protect yourself with Airborne, you say? The cold-fighting meds created by a teacher to arm people entering germy environs isn't exactly all it's cracked up to be, according to a recent lawsuit. Turns out, it's just a concoction of overpriced vitamins. Imagine that! And now you can get your hard-earned money back-- you don't even have to have saved your receipts.

If you've bought Airborne in the past five years, you are entitled to get paid back for up to six purchases without a receipt. (Airborne costs as much as $10.50 a box, so you can get up to $63 back without any proof of purchase.) Just make sure you choose purchase dates after May 2001. You can file the claim online. It’s really easy actually.

http://www.10news.com/health/15486008/detail.html?taf=sand

http://www.airbornehealthsettlement.com/

GOT A HUNGER TO HELP OTHERS?

Kevin — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 05:30:00 GMT

you show your support by running, walking or just standing on the sidelines, don’t miss the 2008 HUNGER WALK/RUN.

Disability Day Rally Thursday, Feb. 21

Kirsten — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:20:00 GMT

International Dignitary, National and State Activists Slated for 10th Annual Disability Day at the Capitol

Nearly 2,000 Georgians will rally to show legislators “my vote is for real” on Thursday, Feb. 21, on the steps of the Capitol (Washington Street side) for the 10th Annual Disability Day Rally. Sponsored by the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD), Disability Day is the largest one day gathering held annually at the State Capitol during the legislative session to heighten public awareness of issues specific to people with disabilities. Ambassador Luis Benigno Gallegos Chiriboga from Ecuador will deliver the keynote address. He has been honored across the globe, from Ecuador to New York, for his advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities.

Time well spent

Kirsten — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:06:00 GMT

Want to stop time for your Valentine? Get a first look at the latest watches from Panam, EOS and Tokidoki tonight, Monday, Jan. 28, at Ten Pin Alley (261 19th St. NW, Atlantic Station). From 8 to 10 p.m., the Peroni will be free-flowing, bowling's complimentary and a DJ will be spinning.

Are you Brave enough?

Kirsten — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 18:56:00 GMT

If your love for baseball is eclipsed only by your impregnable self confidence, listen up. The Atlanta Braves will host open auditions at Turner Field for members of their "game entertainment teams" in coming days. Tryouts for the Tomahawk team will be 5 to 8 p.m. Jan. 23 and 24. These hardy souls are "high-energy, spirited individuals with the ability to engage fans, work within a family environment and perform in front of large crowds," according to a release. Auditions for game entertainment hosts are 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 28 and 29. These crowd pleasers "must have the ability to interact with fans in the stands and in Fan Plaza. Hosts must be comfortable performing in the spotlight in front of thousands of Braves fans at Turner Field." For these high-profile positions, the Bravos prefer "previous emcee experience."

And finally, tryouts for the Heavy Hitters drum line are 5 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30 and 31. These power players perform before, during and after Braves games at Turner Field and should be "musicians with confidence and charisma, a flexible schedule, and the ability to work games in their entirety." Those interested in showcasing their talents should call 404-614-2441 or e-mail Braves.Entertainment@braves.com to set up an appointment. Walk ups will be auditioned first-come, first-served. More information: www.Braves.com/auditions.

Another one bites the dust

Kirsten — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 16:32:00 GMT

As the gay mecca of the south, you'd think Atlanta could keep its gay and lesbian bars in business. But, alas, another bar where the GLBT community can party in safe and accepting company bites the dust. Joining the likes of Hoedowns, Tower and Red Chair, Miss Q's pool bar in Midtown is closing its doors for good. Last-chance party with DJ Moose spinning Saturday, Jan. 26. However, rumor has it that another gay bar will open up in its place.

560-B Amsterdam Ave. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 4 p.m.-4 a.m.; Sat. 4 p.m.-3 a.m.; Sun. 3 p.m.-midnight. 404-875-6255.

beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Kirsten — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:53:00 GMT

We love beauty counters—trying out new products, learning about special ingredients, having makeup applied for you. Lucky for us, PrettyCity.com is bringing the first-ever Beauty Sample Sale to the Georgian Ballroom at the Biltmore Jan. 16 from 5 to 9 p.m. This event has already found success in New York and Chicago and is now coming to Atlanta, Orlando and Los Angeles. The evening offers a plethora of sampling of the newest beauty, leisure and wellness products and pampering treatments from notable brands such as Revlon, Clarisonic, Revitalash and Jane Iredale. Technicians from some of Atlanta’s top spas and salons will be on hand to provide complimentary services, and makeup experts from Jane Iredale will be dishing on application tips for the upcoming season. Ticket holders score goodie bags overflowing with full-size beauty products and deluxe samples. Complimentary cocktails and sweet treats top off the evening as a potential best night ever for beauty junkies. Tickets range from $12.50 to $25 and are available online at www.beautysamplesale.com. No tickets will be sold at the door, and you must be 21 to enter.

A Private Feast

Kirsten — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 17:19:00 GMT

Happy New Year, dear readers. I hope your holidays were festive and fun. I attended a dinner party on NYE. Normally my BFF and her partner do all the cooking themselves, but this year was not a good one for health, and thus they turned to a professional for a little assistance. Enter Kerel Fryar, head chef and owner of Soulful Infusion (soulfulinfusion.com), a private chef service. Fryar whipped up a delicious feast for 20 people--probably on little notice, knowing my BFF ...

Coke is it

Kirsten — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 21:51:00 GMT

It may be because I was born in Atlanta or it could be that the caramel fizz of Coca-Cola is just too perfect for any other soda to compete against, but I'm a loyal drinker through and through ...

Posh Pooch

Kirsten — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 17:02:00 GMT

Don’t forget your four-legged BFFs this holiday. They’ve been good to you all year long and are deserving of lavish gifts, too! Check out Juicy Couture’s new couture canine fragrance and poochie personal care collection, Juicy Crittoure, at Bloomingdale’s...

sales sales sales

Kirsten — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 17:45:00 GMT

I love a bargain ... and I love it even more when I can do it in the name of all that is good and holy.

Sample sale, mimosas and cupcakes

Kirsten — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 21:38:00 GMT

Remember, giving is better than receiving...

Sweet deal

Kirsten — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:54:00 GMT

Looking for some haute stuff to give your loved ones (er, yourself and your BFFs)? Head to Cherry Pie's holiday party, "Candy Canes and Cocktails," this Saturday, December 1st from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Black Friday shopping deal alert

Kirsten — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 17:47:00 GMT

Save big this Friday...

Red Hot

Kirsten — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 19:10:00 GMT

Don't miss CODE RED this Thursday...