Saturday, December 13, 2008

Easton Evaluation: Lacoste

Style and attitude are not mutually exclusive. If clothing is hotter, trendier, or more expensive, the person wearing said clothing will carry themselves as thought they are a postgraduate degree better than another person… Their income, intelligence… Who cares? Thy have a logo of some kind on their shirt… Sadly, this style arrogance is not reserved for those only wearing the clothing… It extends to the people selling the clothing….

Lacoste’s men’s collection was exquisite. I would especially recommend their collared long sleeve shirts ($65.99). Originally priced at $110, their colors schemes are bold and original… They are the perfect gift for the boyfriend who needs to makeover his wardrobe or the preppy dresser, who is simply seeking to expand his…

I know you’re asking what does my first paragraph have to do with my second, other than I mentioned price? As I departed the store, a sales associate approached me and asked snidely “Were you not looking to buy anything tonight?” When I informed her I was only browsing, she quipped, “When you’re ready to make decisions come back.”

I hope she knows I won’t be… Sales associates, and I am speaking to all of you now… Do not act offended or as if it was a waste of your time for a customer to enter and not buy anything… It wasn’t a waste of your time, especially if the person comes back… Customers don’t exist for you, you exist for them…

Gimme More

Columbus, we <3 you! You’ve made our first two weeks more of a success than we imagined possible… To show our appreciation, Gossip Cbus is expanding our front page… Beginning Sunday afternoon, fourteen posts, instead of the current ten, will cover our front page… More of Columbus’ hottest, trendiest, most gorgeous, and most scandalous…

6-0! Buckeyes Beat Butler

They are ranked twenty-first. They are undefeated. And it’s not like they are playing Iona… Sadly, I am assuming their game crowds resemble the crowd at McFadden’s last night

Evan Turner scored a team-high 14 points, including the go-ahead basket with 3:07 left as 21st-ranked Ohio State edged Butler, 54-51. David Lighty poured in 10 points and had eight rebounds, while Dallas Lauderdale scored nine points and grabbed eight boards for Ohio State (6-0), which was coming off a 67-62 win over Notre Dame on December 6. Jon Diebler contributed eight points and Jeremie Simmons had seven in the win.

With the Buckeyes holding a 29-23 lead after one half, the hosts continued to play front-runner and extended its advantage to 43-30 after a pair of free throws by Lauderdale with 4:20 into the second half. However, Butler got three-pointer by Hayward and a layup by Howard to make it a 50-48 game with 4:40 to go. After Turner made one of two from the free-throw line, Hayward's trey from the corner tied the contest at 51-51 with 3:58 remaining.

Turner's jumper with just over three minutes to play put the Buckeyes up by two and after he missed the front end of a one-and-one from the charity stripe, Lighty was unable to knock down a pair from the line with 1:54 to play. Butler went cold from the field in the closing minutes and one-of-two by Lauderdale put OSU up 54-51 with 1:02 left. Following a Turner miss with 11 seconds to play, the Bulldogs grabbed the rebound and called a timeout with 9.7 ticks remaining to draw up a final play. Hayward's three-point attempt from the left side was off the mark and the Buckeyes held on for the three- point win.

INVITE: Sexy Saturdays

“VIP”

Commencement: 10:00

Venue: Sugar Bar (525 Park Street)

VIP Access: Text (406-3072)

Open Bar 11 pm -Midnight

Random Acts of Violence

Numbers eight and nine… Both very random…

NBC 4:
A 16-year old man is in stable condition this morning after he was shot. Reports say the victim was a passenger in a vehicle traveling in the area of South Champion and Marion Road when a green mini van pulled up beside them and fired several gunshots. The suspects, two male blacks, unknown ages fled the area in the van. If you have any information on this crime, please contact the Columbus Division of Police at (614) 645-4545.

NBC 4: The Columbus Division of Police are investigating what they call a suspicious death. Detectives tell NBC 4 a man got into a fight at Columbus Gold on Sawmill and Bethel. Soon after the fight, the man died, but police say he only had cuts on his face. Police are waiting for an autopsy to find out the exact cause of death.

Jingle Ball Video

For anyone that didn’t make the show, Katy Perry was amazing… And you have to love Nick Lachey rocking “Sloopy” (Like he has anything better happening his career?)



More Artist video inside Maxwell’s House

Black & White?

Seriously, who shoots in black and white anymore? Were you going old school? Were you trying to turn McFadden’s into Casablanca? Were you taking these for your color blind relatives? Everyone knows the best part about bunnys (and yes that is the universal symbol for bunny that are making), is their color...
If you can't tell from the looks on their face... The guy is thinking "How did I get to talk to someone so cute" and the girl is thinking "Why am I talking to him?"
Just dance bunny!
I know her friends are concerned with publicity... but obviously the middle bunny is wondering what Anastasia mixed into her drink...

Where Was the Fire?

McFadden’s, on it’s best nights, (and I’ve been there for a few) is about energy… The beat of the music, the bounce of the bunnies, the random interactions with crowds you virtually run into as you try to make your way from one friend to another or from the upstairs to the downstairs. Energy… Not intoxication, not potential hookups, energy is what makes this place unique amongst any destination in our city…

Tonight, there was no energy… Everyone cam for happy hour, slammed their free or reduced price drinks and then bolted… Even the Naughty or Nice Party, which was the reason I showed up, fizzled… I wont blame the promotion staff for that (that’s to easy)… Instead, I will put the blame right where it belongs… On the students of our university… Seriously everyone… FINALS ARE OVER… Go out, get trashed, find hookup and the next day, wake up, down two aspirin, and drive home… With two quarters behind you, why the sudden rush back to Piedmont, North Dakota?

Amidst the dwindled crowd (you could actually see whole sections of floor, a rarity for McFadden’s), there was little action… I will say the bar staff looked incredible… Gorgeous kittens in the shortest skirts and most festive Santa attire… That, despite the pathetic crowd, made the night worth attending… There were also a few memorable scenes… A guy, drunk out of his mind being helped down the stairs by two friends and a girl, decked out in Rudolph antlers, falling to her ass in a walkway (can anyone spell drunk)…

While tonight produces a shorter wrap and fewer memories, the conversations and connections were still ever present… And that, speaking only for myself, is the reason I truly come out… The staff that has turned into friends… The people who add the color to what would otherwise be just another place where college students get wasted…

Friday, December 12, 2008

Easton Evaluation: Dr. Mojoe

A pathetic sales staff… A putrid collection… One is clearly worse than the other… Yes, clothes are the reason you enter the store… However, sales associates make your visit memorable and are the reason you return… If the sales associates are terrible, they can make you regret even venturing into the store (New York and Company)… If the sales associates are gracious, they can gloss over any collection, no matter how vile.

Dr. Mojoe presented such an experience… The sales associate was outstanding… She answered my questions, engaged me in conversation, and spoke with confidence and knowledge about the two pieces I ask to see. Why did I only wish to see two pieces? The collection was atrocious…. Limited selection, limited color schemes, and absolutely no style…

Particularly ghastly was a black and brown sweater, that the sales associate actually spoke very highly of… Black and brown? Are you kidding me? She argued… The do not pair black and brown is a fashion myth… Whatever she drank prior to work, get me a double… Black and brown should never (ever) be on the same fabric… They should never be in the same pile of clothing…

BREAKING: Ohio State Responds to Nathan Williams

On Wednesday, Ohio State freshman defensive end Nathan Williams was arrested for shoplifting in a Dayton mall. Allegedly, Williams was only holding what a friend had stolen. “I took the blame for somebody; I didn't do anything,” Williams offered as an explanation. “If he got in trouble for this, he would be in jail. So I took his back. I didn't expect any of this. I thought I'd just get a ticket and pay a fine. I'm at a loss for words.”

After a nineteen hours of silence, Gossip Cbus has obtained exclusive first reaction. A senior athletic department official spoke with us on condition of anonymity. His reaction could only be characterized as displeased. “A ticket and fine!” he exclaimed. “The kid wasn’t pulled over on 71 , he was walking out of a store with tangible merchandise. He’s old enough to know right from wrong and his decision was as stupid as his friends.”

Asked whether or not he believed Williams, the senior official would not comment. He also passed on whether discipline would be taken against Williams saying only, “We’re still investigating the matter.”

He did say that all OSU athletes, weather national headliners or relative unknowns, must be careful about their relationships. “You’re in a major athletic program, arguably one of the best in this country,” he said. “That’s going to gravitate people to you. You have to either separate yourself or make sure that you know the people around you and that they aren’t capable of even asking you to do what happened to Nathan.”

Easton Evaluation: Sony Style

Admittedly, I did not browse every item within Sony Style… I was very targeted in my search for a digital camera. While I cannot judge Sony’s overall collection, I can speak with certainty about their sales associates… Thy were one of the most courteous, thorough staffs that I encountered. They explained the differences between cameras, why one was superior to the other… A sales associate was even thoughtful enough to show me how to use the software that would come with my camera…

Ultimately, based on everything I was shown and told, I would recommend the Cyber Shot series ($129-$329)… With impressive features, such as touch screens, and an extensive color array (my personal favorite was the red), they are the perfect upgrade for seasoned shooters or the perfect introduction for aspiring paparazzi…

Easton Evaluation: New York & Company

The only thing worse than a terrible sales staff? A pathetic collection which exceeds the sales associates. New York and Company wins in both categories. I spent twenty minutes in the store, during which I found only one shirt I thought was semi-cute. In those twenty minutes, the sales associates remained huddled behind a counter. They didn’t anything, I don’t even think they looked at me. Not that they could have talked me into buying the filth… But, I assume they are earning a salary to do more than ring up sales (which I cant imagine there are many of)…

If one looked very hard (and I mean very hard) throughout Easton or Polaris, they might find a collection that was worse. However, I don’t think I will need to apologize to New York and Company any time soon… Whether it was misplaced items (ruffles or over done collars) on tops or skirts my grandmother might wear… New York and Company was a truly deplorable experience… Twenty minutes of my life they should be required to pay me for…

INVITE: Naughty & Nice Party

“Dear Santa, Define Naughty”

Commencement: 9:00

Venue: McFadden’s (South Campus)

Naughtiest Santa receives $200

$3 Bud Light Pounders
$3 Soco Lime Shots
$2 Santa’s Jello Shots

The Count Goes On…

Numbers six and seven… The NBC story is simply frightening… A witness cant drive the streets here without facing some kind of retaliation? The CBS story is scary, but you have to chuckle… Knocking on your door and saying they’re cold? Stupid question, which is worse, being cold and not shot at or being warm and facing lead?

NBC 4:
Police continued to look for a man they said opened fire on a woman in the middle of traffic -- and it might have been retaliation for her testimony in a burglary case. The incident occurred around 5 p.m. Thursday on the city’s Northeast Side. As Peppers was pulling away from a traffic light, she observed a vehicle in which Dwight L. Green was the front-seat passenger, and that vehicle was going the opposite direction, according to police. Green allegedly fired one shot from a handgun at Peppers. The alleged shot missed Peppers but struck her vehicle. Columbus police said Peppers was a witness in a burglary case in which Green was a suspect.

10 TV: Police were searching for a group of men who broke into a north side home Friday morning. The three men knocked on the door of a home on Maize Road shortly before 6 a.m. They told the 84-year-old woman who answered the door that they were cold and needed to come in…

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Easton Evaluation: Cache

In the internet age, anyone can start a rumor. They don’t have to have information or verification or facts of any kind… They can simply sit down with their phone or their laptop and through twitter or myspace or e-mail or text message, send a few words into their universe and create a stir based upon nothing… Such is the recent problem Cache has faced… An anonymous e-mail flooded into millions of inboxes across the nation claiming Cache would be shuttering hundreds of stores… None of it was true… But that still doesn’t stop customers from shopping elsewhere…

While I had planned to review Cache, their unique style always making them one of my favorite lines, the rampant speculation via e-mail and cable news heightened my interest. When I entered their store, I found their staff surprisingly eager to answer any questions I had about this completely bogus speculation… If I were an employee, I could imagine getting upset over the constant drone of false information (my sales associate says that at minimum five people a day ask her)… However, she answered every question I had with a smile… Along the way pointing out that Cache is a publicly traded company, so anyone can see that they are in no danger of a mass layoff.

The sales associate was equally helpful when the discussion was actually browsing clothes… She wasn’t aggressive, she didn’t oversell… She managed to compliment the collection’s style and quality within the course of a normal conversation… It was as if I were shopping with a friend, rather than someone tasked with purpose of absolutely having to sell me something, like their head was on a chopping block… Easily, it was one of the entire evaluation’s most enjoyable experiences.

Their product also lived up to expectations… Elegant cocktail dresses, which one could wear on a red carpet, as well as charming black dresses, which one could wear to their office Christmas party… With immaculate design and reasonable pricing, there was a dress that would flatter any body and fall into every price range…

While the event naturally dictates dress shopping, I would recommend four specifically… The strapless taffeta dress with the ruffle hem ($208), the tiered taffeta halter ($188), the double strap stretch satin halter ($178), and the strapless bubble dress with ribbon belt ($188). Each are sophisticated enough to rock as evening wear, while maintaining enough practicality to double for afternoon events…

Overall, Cache’s collection is stunning and their service is stellar… While I have no doubt that Cache’s products and services were like this pre-email, I can only wonder, if some not so great companies had an e-mail circulated about them… Maybe then, they would produce collections with the beauty, class, and grace of Cache.

Buckeye Delight & Discount

Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State freshman defensive end Nathan Williams said his arrest yesterday for shoplifting is a case of trying to protect a friend. Williams was arrested by Beavercreek police for allegedly shoplifting three shirts valued at $80 from the Macy's department store in the Mall at Fairfield Commons in suburban Dayton. He said he was with a friend, and as they were walking out of the store, the alarm went off. His friend told him he had the three shirts, and Williams agreed to take the shirts -- and the blame.

On a night when two of our examples win awards, could anything dumber interrupt their moment? As for William’s explanation… Unless my friend has proof that I slept with his significant other and I owe him… there is no way I’m taking a shoplifting charge…

Cleveland Plain Dealer: Senior cornerback Malcolm Jenkins helped secure his place in Ohio State history when he won the Jim Thorpe Award on Thursday night, given to the best defensive back in the nation. Jenkins won the award over Eric Berry of Tennessee and Taylor Mays of USC. James Laurinaitis was in attendance as a finalist for the Bednarik Award for top defensive player, but that went to Rey Maualuga of USC… However, both Laurinaitis and Jenkins were named to the Walter Camp All-American first team. Laurinaitis became only the fifth player in 119 years to be named to the first team in three seasons. Left tackle Alex Boone was named to the second team.

Little Animal, you are amazing… possibly one of the four or five best defensive players in the history of OSU… Malcolm J… you deserved this… Congrats.

Easton Evaluation: Swarovski

If elegance or uniqueness is something you or someone you are buying for craves, Swarovski should be your destination. From figurines to jewelry, a more eclectic, immaculate collection could not exist. Whether you want a Christmas ornament or a Disney icon, the quality of Swarovski will be matched only by the smile on the recipient’s face.

I would recommend any of the Disney collection. While age normally limits one’s affection for cartoon characters, no one, at any age will deny an appreciation for these icons… Mickey or Minnie Mouse, Bambi and friends, Winnie the Pooh and Friends… The craftsmanship is perfection… And while you’re in their store, ask to see my personal favorite… “The Rhinoceros” ($3,750).

Easton Evaluation: Gap

Walk into any dorm room closet in this country and there is a good chance something from the Gap will either be hanging or thrown into a pile. Since the mid-nineties, the clothing store has been a staple, excelling at one moment or another, in every genre from jeans to sweaters. Imagine my surprise then when browsing this year’s collection… I encountered a nondescript effort that required excruciating patience to view… Patience because after five minutes, it was clear that I wouldn’t be purchasing anything this season…

There apathetic sales staff compliments their clothes… Thirty minutes in the store, seeking something in either the men’s or women’s collection that would catch my eyes, and nothing from an associate… Not a hello, not a can I help you… Nothing… When a collection needs selling, as the Gap’s clearly does this season, the associates need to be superstars… Easton’s were more like well placed rocks…

As with previous seasons, their sweaters ($39.99-$89.99) are satisfactory… However, they are nothing I cant find either somewhere else or for less money… If I were you, working the clothing section of my holiday gift list, I would definitely go somewhere else, as the Gap’s collection certainly isn’t worth paying for…

Recharge Ohio? Remake Your Party!

Why do Democrats get George Clooney or Scarlet Johansson and Republicans get people who you either wouldn’t want to photograph or who smile like they’ve never see a camera in their life?

Strickland Outlines Worst Case

NBC 4: Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland has compiled a worst-case budget document that envisions cuts as high as 25 percent to state agencies. Strickland, who is pushing Congress for federal aid to states, says he created the scenario to show how bad things could be without help from Washington. The Department of Education says such cuts would reduce its budget by $2 billion and force many districts into the red. The prisons department says it would have to close six prisons and triple-bunk many inmates. Ohio faces a budget deficit of as much as $7 billion next year and in 2011.

Remember all that euphoria when our governor was elected… I said then and I will say now, anyone who could walk and chew gum would have a ninety percent approval rating after Bob Taft… Now is when those approval ratings get earned…

Attackers Random & Domestic

Remember I said I was counting… numbers four and five…

10 TV: 13-year-old boy was recovering Thursday from injuries he said he sustained earlier this week when he was attacked and beaten by three men. The teenager said the attack occurred Tuesday evening near Avondale and State streets… Brandon, who asked that his last name not be used, said he was walking to the Gladden Community Center when he was attacked from behind and knocked to the ground… the men kicked him repeatedly… The attack left him with a broken arm, cuts, scratches and a swollen eye.

WSYX 6: A family fights back as intruders break into their home overnight. It happened along Azelda Avenue in Northeast Columbus around 2:30 this morning. Columbus police say two armed intruders kicked in the door and went inside the home. Police say the father got a gun and chased the intruders out before they could take anything. No one was injured.

Accentuate the Positive

Another picture taking tip… When you have a cluster of three, don’t hide the cutest bunny in the back!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

BREAKING: AFL Collapse Speculation Was “Overblown”

Throughout the day, ESPN sizzled with speculation that AFL was on the verge of collapse. Statements were released. Stories were continuously updated and finally, moments ago, it was announced that the AFL, with sixteen franchises, including our own Columbus Destroyers, will play in 2009.

According to a Destroyers senior official, who spoke with us on condition of anonymity, the hyperbole was ridiculous. “The back and fourth was never a back and fourth,” he said. “Have there been discussions about how we can improve as a league. Yes. Have there been discussions about canceling an entire season? None that I was involved in. None that I have been told about. The whole thing was completely overblown.”

“Are things bad?” he continued. “The economy is in the toilet. We’re hurting. Baseball, Basketball, Hockey is hurting. But, the Blue Jackets and Clippers remain viable and so do we.”

Since moving from Buffalo in 1999, the Destroyers have been very well attended. This despite an overall 28-54 record, which includes only one playoff appearance. In 2007, the Destroyers won the National Conference. Unfortunately, the lost Arena Bowl XXI to the San Jose Saber Cats 55-33.

Easton Evaluation: Victoria’s Secret

Victoria’s Secret is a marvel. They are an unexplainable marvel. You would assume that their popularity, their ability to constantly remake their image as something more than merely a sexy lingerie store, would evaporate at some point. Yet, I can say without question, that they have impressed me once again. Their Pink Collection is among the best compilations I have reviewed. Jackets, hoodies, or velour sweats… Each could top any product collection assembled this season.

I must say something about their something about their sales associates, which in contrast to the clothing were not spectacular. Several associates were arrayed on the floor… They weren’t all huddled behind a counter (like some stores, I will be talking about in future posts)… Unfortunately, they weren’t exactly helpful. Yes, one did ask how I was (not can I help you with anything, simply how are you)… but no one asked if I needed any help… While I knew was seeking, this is still one of the few marks against what was an incredible shopping experience.

Back to the Pink collection. Their hoodies are exquisite ($34.50-$68.50). Gorgeous design… Gorgeous color schemes…The perfect compliment to any wardrobe. Equally immaculate are the velour sweats ($38.50)… A beautiful, form-fitting ensemble that will capture every girlfriend’s heart and flatter her every curve… They are the perfect stay in; relax with a movie and Chinese food outfit…

Without question, my favorite item, I cannot show you a picture of… (This is because I cant find the item on their website)… Amongst all the beautiful, decadent items within their store, one item announced it’s presence above anything else… A magnificent, sparkle emblazoned jacket ($148), which read “Everything That Glitters Is Pink.”

Like every other discussed item, the jacket is perfection… If I can find a picture, I will certainly post it… If you shop Victoria’s Secret, your holiday will be equally perfect.

INVITE: The Ugly Christmas Sweater Party

Embarrassing shirts, skirts, sweaters, or hats are a requirement! (Example above)

Commencement: 7:00

Cost: $5.00

Venue: The Lazy Chameleon (4028 Presidential Parkway Powell – Powell)

Silent Auction

Prizes

Controversy will perform
FYI: Controversy is a seven-piece cover band. They feature 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s music.

Easton Evaluation: Puma

Puma is niche clothing. Unless you’re an athlete, into athletics, or simply covet European emblazed soccer apparel, you will have little use for their product. This is not to say their product is not quality, their product absolutely is. It is simply only for use a targeted gift and not a store you can venture into looking to complete your shopping. You also may want to know what you are shopping for, as their sales staff is also without the helpfulness attribute.

As stated, their product is magnificent. A pair of jackets caught my eye, as well as a collection of soccer tracksuits. With an impressive color array and stunning printed logos, this apparel (similar to this link, we could not find an exact picture, as apparently their website is just as bad as their sales staff), will you have you poised to take the pitch alongside David Beckham.

Bally’s BS

NBC 4: The Bally Total Fitness on Fuji Drive on the city's Northeast Side was closed overnight, and the facility on Macsway Avenue will be closed within a week. When members arrived at the Fuji Drive facility Wednesday morning, they were greeted by locked doors and a sign. The only option: call an 800 number. This is what they heard: Thank you for calling Bally Total Fitness. Please stay on the line and you will be connected to the next available representative.

As customers drove up and read the news, representatives with a former competitor Lifestyle Fitness made it clear Bally members were welcome at their gym. Lifestyle Fitness offered those affected by the closures a special deal of no enrollment fee and a $29.99 monthly fee for membership -- it would normally cost twice as much. According to Bally’s, affected members will get a free upgrade to any existing location, but the nearest one is in Dayton.

The NBC 4 newscast had an interview with someone who had signed up the night before (the night before!) and is now out almost $100… They said they wish they would have known… Wish nothing… If I were the one to show up and find this, I might have broken something…

Easton Evaluation: Apple

When one shops fashion, their questions are simple. What pants should I wear with this shirt? What would this shirt match? Does this shirt look good on me? When one shops technology, the questions are much more complex. Constructive, thorough answers are required. Imagine my surprise when, after ten minutes in the Apple store, I still had not had a sales associate approach me. Imagine had I been a customer actually confused as to what laptop would work with my digital camera… without even the hint of a courteous staff, I might have given into my frustration, exited, and quickly forgotten any inclination of ever returning to Apple.

While their sales staff is miserable, Apple’s new I-Pod collection is a masterpiece. With excellent new features and a stellar new color line, the Nano-cromatic ($148) is the perfect accessory or upgrade for any music lover. I recommend purchasing one… But, please don’t have any questions… you wont get them answered…

Cruelty & Cold

NBC 4: A Columbus firefighter took heat after he confessed to fatally shooting his two dogs and dumping their bodies in a fire-station dumpster. Firefighter David Santuomo, a 12-year department veteran, told Capital Area Humane Society investigators the two dogs grew ill after digesting antifreeze Thursday, Dec. 4. Santuomo said the dogs were shot Sunday, Dec. 7. Kerry Manion, chief humane agent, told Lee Santuomo stated he did not have the money to take the dogs to the vet. That was after humane-society agents retrieved the dead dogs from the dumpster behind Firehouse 27 on Smoky Row Road. Manion said the dogs were shot multiple times with a .22-caliber firearm. Toxicology tests will determine whether, in fact, the dogs were poisoned with antifreeze.

He couldn’t afford to take his dogs to the vet, so he either shot them or poisoined them with antifreeze? The Columbus Fire Department should suspend him and I hope someday, he is convicted of something… I know, with what’s happening in Columbus, killing two dogs may be relatively minor… but, seriously, his actions were just wrong!

10 TV: We will see precipitation tonight across central Ohio that will begin with sprinkles and end with snow flurries. It will clear later on Wednesday night, but it will be very cold. Overnight low temperatures will plunge to 22 degrees. Look for partly sunny skies on Thursday. It will remain cool, with highs reaching 38 degrees.

Snow, rain, cold… Make up your mind already…

Geeks Cast

From one of our campus tipsters… We’re told the right one on the right bills himself as the future of the Republican Party… Clearly, Republicans have no future…

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

BREAKING: Columbus Crew Coach Quits

10 TV: Sigi Schmid will not return next year as coach of the Columbus Crew after leading the team to its first Major League Soccer Cup. Schmid confirmed that he is looking at other coaching opportunities in an exclusive interview with 10TV's Dom Tiberi.

"My decision is not to return to Columbus," Schmid said by telephone from California. "I don't have anything right now confirmed, but it's a situation that allowed Columbus to move ahead as well."

Schmid has already met with officials from the expansion Seattle Sounders. "It was a very difficult decision," Schmid said. "I love the fans. I love my players, and everything about it last year was a dream season."

Schmid won the coach of the year award after leading the Crew to the league championship. Columbus defeated the New York Red Bulls 3-1 in the MLS Cup title game on Nov. 23 in Carson, Calif.

Talk about cupping and running… He wins a title and he bolts? Did Jim Tressel or Bill Belichick or anyone else who turned a franchise take their title and leave town? Coach Sig… I’ll never understand this decision, but let me be the first to say, Columbus is thankful for all you did, even if that was only winning an anonymous title in a second rate league no one cares about…

Stealth & Style

Once again, I was walking Easton’s mile of style. Where did I go? What was amazing? What was nauseating? Where would I recommend? Who had the nicest sales assistants? Full dish soon….Until then, you know you love me…

Disney Drinking

Ok people… Miller Lite and Miller High Life both did commercials about this… You don’t fruit the beer… You don’t put fruit in the beer… You don’t bring fruit around the beer… Especially apples… What look are you going for? The alcoholic Snow White?

Want My Opinion?

NBC 4: Columbus council chambers were packed as people voiced their opinions over its 2009 budget. Almost everyone who showed up discussed their concern over the proposed closing of 11 rec centers. Neighborhood leaders, program directors, parents and children told council members that closing the centers would put kids out on the streets, many also offered suggestions on ways to finance the centers. The city is expected to finalize budget in February. Another public hearing will be December 16th at 530 p.m.

Of course, that was a rhetorical question… You know you want my opinion… Closing the rec centers is a bad idea… Cutting the cops, another bad idea… Where will the funds come from to keep both from happening? I don’t have the faintest idea… But what I do know, is both those involve keeping our children safe and we should always have money for that…

Pride & Proposals

Group Picture Etiquette

I would never admit to being a professional photographer, but there are a couple of things I assume… Picture A, you might want to have everyone in the shot next time… Picture B, you may want to have the people looking less plastered and without hair in their eyes…

Monday, December 8, 2008

Easton Evaluation: Henri Bendel

It’s easy to get lost this time of year… You have a hundred places to be, a million obligations to keep… Shopping, Family, Food, Preparations… Every moment can blur into each other… But, there are moments when you have to pause, when you have to take that moment to realize that what is happening before your eyes is amazing… It could be a stranger helping someone… It could be someone opening the gift you bought them… Whatever the moment, you appreciate it, because it’s a truly unique collection of seconds…

I had such an experience at Henri Bendel… Zoe, my salesperson, was without question the most knowledgeable of any I dealt with last week… You expect managers to answer your questions with a minimum appreciation for what they are showing you, but she was extraordinary… As she recommended items and showed me items I requested, I got the sense that not only was I dealing with a very proficient employee, I was with someone who truly enjoys their job and enjoys the product (she mentioned having purchased something as a, and I love this, “Christmas present for herself.”)

Even if your girlfriend, wife, or mother already owns Chanel, Coach, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, I would recommend a purchase from Henri Bendel. You will not truly have an appreciation for their product, which incidentally is exquisite, until Zoe explains, in outstanding detail; it’s beauty and utility. I know your thinking; the manager was amazing, talk about the product…

I could gush about the product just as much… while their collection of accessories and jewelry is exceptional, the purses are the superstars… As attractive as anything Coach would sell, their practically is without question superior. Triple the pockets of any Coach, you may find separate compartments for everything your own… Several of the purses also have detachable components, so you can style up or down depending upon your ensemble…

Also unlike Coach, I have not run across anything, either in the store or subsequently online, that I can scorch as I did Coach’s Leah atrocity… Each Henri Bendel has style and swagger and with their simple, yet strong color assortment, there is a selection of bags that any girl would be proud to carry… My recommendations? I’m delighted you ask… The Number Seven shoulder bag ($395) is gorgeous; particularly I love the strap, whose length can be converted into a shoulder or smaller bag… I will also mention the Lady with Dog Clutch ($275), which despite its small size contains ample story space, including another pocket within a pocket…

As a final compliment, I will say this… Appreciating Henri Bendel is like appreciating your first glass of wine… You can’t just swallow it… You have to sip it, savor it, listen to the salespeople tell you why you need this purse… In a phrase, simply appreciate the unique collection of seconds… And then, if you’re really feeling adventurous, ask to see the limited (and why I say limited I mean one per store), alligator skin pink handbag ($8,000). (Sorry, no picture, you will have to see it for yourself)…

Bexley = Bastard Step Child of Columbus

Again, another situation where I was semi-serious turns into, well something to be really serious about… We already knew Bexley was not a good place to go after three in the afternoon, but now they can’t even salt their roads? Are you bleeping kidding me?

I want to say this once… So there is no confusion… I don’t care if you have a university (and I’m using that term loosely) in your neighborhood… I’m sure there are universities in Beirut… You are a sad, scary little suburb and you need to get yourself off of my nightly newscast!


NBC 4:
Bexley Police are investigating numerous criminal damaging reports throughout the city. According to police, on November 29th and 30th a suspect(s) damaged car and house windows by throwing rocks and bricks at them. During those two days, police received 10 reports. Police are still looking for a suspect. In addition, detectives are looking for information that would lead to an arrest out of a home burglary near Capital University. The victim in this case lost more than $9,000 dollars in property, including 7 rifles and 3 pistols. If you have any information, contact Bexley Police.

10 TV: Bexley did not send salt trucks out until Sunday and only on major roads, leaving residential side streets coated with snow and ice. City officials received about a dozen complaints over the weekend from residents upset about road conditions.

From Now On…I’m Counting

NBC 4: Police are investigating 2 shootings that happened on Monday night. Just before 8 p.m. on Monday night Columbus Police responded to the report of a shooting at Heatherleaf Way on Columbus’ north east side. Later in the evening around 10:30 p.m., Police responded to South Harris Avenue on another report of a shooting.

Seriously, I was only semi-serious earlier… But now, I’m keeping track… That’s three violent crimes in twenty-four hours…

Does She Really Represent Us?

Ok… So I’m not really smart (shut-up!) when it comes to this whole Congress thing… Is there a caucus for really ugly members?

Buckeyes Cringe & Celebrate

NBC 4: OSU police has issued a crime alert. A female student reported she was sexually assaulted at Hopkins Hall last week. She said she was assaulted at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2. The suspect was described as a white male who is college-age. He is 6 feet tall with an average build. He has very short light-brown or dark-blond hair. He was wearing blue jeans, a T-shirt and a hoodie. Anyone with information was encouraged to call CPD at 614-645-4545 or campus police at 614-292-2121. You also can report information anonymously to the Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-645-TIPS or the University Crime Stoppers tips line at 614-247-TIPS.

I know… crimes happen everyday in this city… but this at minimum the fifth violent crime I’ve counted since the cop reduction announcement… Anyone think that’s a coincidence?

10 TV: The Ohio State University Marching Band was invited on Monday to perform in the 56th Inaugural Parade in Washington, D.C. If the band accepts the invitation, they will join representatives from across the country in the parade down Pennsylvania Avenue following President-elect Barack Obama's swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 20, 2009.

If the band accepts the invitation? Let’s see… football season is over, basketball season is ending… Its keep playing or start studying for third quarter finals… If they accept lol

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Why Watch Fox?

Coach Tressel… you should have just read Gossip Cbus!

BREAKING: Fiesta Bowl Will Host Buckeyes

As first reported here, our Ohio State Buckeyes will face Texas in the 38th Tostitos Fiesta Bowl (January 5, 8:00 p.m. – Fox 8). This will be the third meeting in four years between the two schools. In 2005, Texas won 25-22 in Columbus. In 2006, the Buckeyes won 24-7 in Austin.

“When you start talking about playing against the Longhorns, they are a great program historically,” said Coach Jim Tressel. “They had one of their finest teams they’ve had this year. They may be as good as any football team in the country. It is a tremendous opportunity for our guys to face off against them and in a terrific venue and on a stage where there is only one game that day.”

Despite a 45-35 defeat of rival Oklahoma in the regular season, Texas was left out of the Big 12 Championship game and the National Championship game in favor of the Sooners. In the final BCS Standings, Oklahoma was first, Florida second, Texas third, and the Buckeyes tenth.

Colt McCoy, likely a Heisman finalist when those are announced on Tuesday, says he looks forward to playing the Buckeyes. “I'm really looking forward to it because they came down here to Austin and beat us,” he said. “It was just my second start then, so it will be fun getting another chance to play them. They've got a great defense, so we know it is going to be tough to score. We just have to practice and prepare like we have all season and, hopefully, we can come out with the win.”

Since 2002, Ohio State has appeared in three Fiesta Bowls and one Tostitos National Championship Game. In 2002, they defeated Miami 31-24 in double overtime to win their last national championship. In 2003, they defeated Kansas State 35-28. In 2005, they defeated Notre Dame 34-20. In 2006, they lost a national championship to Florida 41-14. This will be only Texas second Fiesta Bowl appearance in a dozen years. In 1997, they were throttled by Penn State 38-15.

Cash & Cold

10 TV: A $2,000 reward was announced on Sunday leading police to the person responsible for robbing a Grandview Heights area coffee shop. The Caribou Coffee Shop, located at 1425 Grandview Ave., was robbed at about 5:45 a.m. on Nov. 25. The reward is valid for information received by Dec. 17 that leads to the arrest or indictment of the person responsible for the crime. Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 614-656-8477 or e-mail them by using their Web site. Text messages can be sent to "274637" with key word "TIP125."

Cops? Who needs cops? Just motivate concerned citizens with money. I’m sure they will do the right thing….

10 TV: Expect a few leftover snow flurries as you head back to work on Monday… skies should clear slightly later in the day as high temperatures approach 38 degrees. Expect mostly cloudy skies on Tuesday, with accompanying rain showers. It will be warmer, with daytime highs reaching 48 degrees.

Thirty-eight Monday… Forty-eight Tuesday… Snow…. Rain…. This weather is seriously messing with my social schedule!

BREAKING: Fiesta Bowl Invites Ohio State

For the fifth time in seven seasons, Arizona will host the Ohio State Buckeyes. According a senior university official, Fiesta Bowl representatives have informed Ohio State (10-2), they will forgo selecting Utah and instead select the Buckeyes to oppose Texas on January 5. An official announcement will be made Sunday (Fox - 8 pm). The official spoke to us on condition of anonymity.

Since 2002, Ohio State has appeared in three Fiesta Bowls and one Tostitos National Championship Game. In 2002, they defeated Miami 31-24 in double overtime to win their last national championship. In 2003, they defeated Kansas State 35-28. In 2005, they defeated Notre Dame 34-20. In 2006, they lost a national championship to Florida 41-14.

The Buckeyes have twice met Texas. In 2005, they lost 25-22 in Columbus. In 2006, they won 24-7 in Austin. This season, the Longhorns are 11-1. Their season includes a 45-35 defeat of Oklahoma, who will likely play for a national championshp.