The Game Plan
Jammin Java Band Battle Concludes this Friday
Posted by Matt Basheda / Wednesday, February 15th, 2012
The prelims were crazy. The finals will be insane.
The biggest band battle at one of the biggest clubs in the U.S. reaches its climax this Friday, Feb. 17.
Jammin Java’s Mid-Atlantic Band Battle 6 sees the four final bands square off against each other. Instruments will clash, and musical tsunamis will flood the massive crowd.
Kill the Alarm tearing it up in the prelims. Courtesy Jammin Java.
The bands are:
Brightwork, with shimmering keyboard- and guitar-based pop music; Kill the Alarm, driving alternative rock; The Dirty Jacks, upbeat proggish rock; and Buster Brown and the Get Down, Arlington funk favorites.
The grand prize for which they’re competing is hefty: $2,500 cash, a headlining show at Jammin J, professional studio time and gift certificates for brand new instruments and equipment.
These shows are always kickin’, and consistently sold out. If you make it to one local show this year, make it this one. Tickets are still available, but buy ‘em now–seriously.
Celebrate Mardi Gras, NoVA Style
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Wednesday, February 15th, 2012
Shutterstock/Mike Flippo
Can’t make it to Nawlins on Feb. 21? No worries. We’ve put together the most festive places in NoVA to celebrate like you’re on Bourbon Street.
Parade
Take the party to the streets. One of NoVA’s more well-known Mardi Gras traditions is the annual parade in Clarendon. Starting at 8 p.m. along Wilson Boulevard, it will feature colorful floats, festive dancing and, of course, beads.
Have your (king) cake. For a sweet Mardi Gras treat, order a king cake from Bayou Bakery (1515 N. Courthouse Road, Arlington), where renowned Chef David Guas bakes up the sweet tradition. Find a trinket inside, rule the day.
Wear the right colors. It’s time to break out your purple, green and gold, representing justice, faith and power. For a festive good time, costumes encouraged, check out Okra’s (9110 Center St., Manassas).
Read the rest of this entry »
It’s Not Too Late: Last Minute Valentines Ideas
Posted by Colleen Callery / Tuesday, February 14th, 2012
Happy Valentine’s Day, all! I hope your day has been filled with those little chocolates in heart-shaped boxes and .. wait, you forgot?
Not to worry! We’ve collected few last minute ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day for those of us that are a little late to the game.
Photo by Karly Pope
Not too Late for Flowers:
Many florists, like Reston Floral Design and Flowers With Passion in Bristow are ready to accomodate those last minute requests. You can even order online straight from your desk if you haven’t left work yet. So what are you waiting for? Get to ordering!
Chocolate Dipped Fruit To Go:
Edible Arrangements has a ton of Valentine’s Day options, you can order in advance or in the store and take it home with you. And if you are in a real rush, stop by one of their storefronts and grab a box of their chocolate dipped fruit ready to go!
Make Dinner Together:
This isn’t reinventing the wheel or anything, but making dinner together can be a great way to spend time with your loved one. Make sure they don’t have other dinner plans, pick up a few things on your way home, and spend the night wining and dining. Delish has some great recipe ideas.
Make Dessert:
Maybe you already have dinner plans, or you are really more of a baker. Next Chefs has put together a bunch of YouTube tutorials on great dessert recipes. Everything from homemade chocolate to red velvet cupcakes. Yum!
Watch Some Ryan:
Star of one of the most popular love movies of all time, The Notebook, and indisputable Hollywood heartthrob, what says romance like a little Ryan Gosling? For the entire month of February Time Warner has made a bunch of his movies available On Demand. So snuggle up and turn up the Gosling!
-Colleen Callery
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Monday, February 13th, 2012
In honor of International Flirting Week (Feb. 13-19) we’ve rounded up some of the best and worst pick-up lines heard around NoVA.
Shutterstock/OnFocus
Are you a speeding ticket? Because you got FINE written all over you.
overheard by Erik Cook, Redskins offensive lineman
Do you have a heartbeat?
overheard by J.C. Hayward, WUSA9 news anchor
Wow, you’re cute. Can I meet your mom?
overheard by Jay Converse, the Tuba Guy
“I was recently invited to join the George Mason pep band (I have a graduate degree from Mason). I was telling my brother how it’s fun to be around kids that are younger than my own. He said, ‘Why don’t you go up to one of them and say, [line above].’”
Hey, how much does a polar bear weigh? Enough to break the ice.
overheard by Erick V. from the Kane Show
“I’ve definitely used the polar bear one.”
So, do you work for the Post Office? Because I saw that you have been checking out my package.
overheard by Andrea Khoury, Real Housewives of NoVA blogger
“The worst pick-up line that’s ever been used on me was down in Old Town Alexandria. Ewww, such a creeper!”
You look like you play football. Wanna buy me a drink?
overheard by Eric Patrick, “Real World” cast member & comedian from NoVA
“I think the worst I’ve ever heard was directed toward me. (ref. the above). Now that I’m single, I’m trying to stay away from lines all together, but my favorite used to be, ‘You don’t do Colgate commercials, do you? No? I knew it; you’re a Crest model!’”
Have you overheard any good ones lately? Think you’ve got a clever line? Post them below!
And don’t forget to check out our complete guide to Valentine’s Day!
All [Lovers] Aboard! Next Stop: Relationship Stationship
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Friday, February 10th, 2012
Honey, we need to DTR. / Photo credit: Shutterstock/Everett Collection
Love is in the air. From googly-eyed teenagers to young at heart retired folks, February casts its chalk heart and rose petals spell on just about everyone. Although Valentine’s Day is approaching at a rate of 215 heartbeats a minute doesn’t guarantee that you have a, um, Valentine, so to speak.
Valentine’s Day Movies: The Blog Post
Posted by Matt Basheda / Friday, February 10th, 2012
Don’t waste your time immersing yourself in the commercial overdrive that is modern Valentine’s Day–stay in and watch a movie, or two or three. Wrap yourself around your date, and let the romantic ammo feed the moment. You might get lucky even before the credits roll. No, not like that–I mean you might find a penny on your floor.
Anyway, you have a variety of options for Valentine’s movies. But the best I can do is give you a guy’s guide to Valentine’s viewing.
If you’re with a girl who was born sometime in the past 30 years, just face it–you’ll have to watch “The Notebook.” I will not deign to post an actual video here. You know what the movie is, and you know what it’s about.
But have you ever noticed that nearly every romance is just a variation on “Romeo and Juliet?” Think about it–”The Notebook” is basically “Romeo and Juliet” spread out over 60 years, and they don’t commit suicide at the end. So if you’re going to go super-romantic this V-Day, why not go back to the start and watch a story that’s stood the test of time by 400 years.
You can’t go wrong with “The Graduate,” either.
Outright romances are not always necessary, though. There are lots of dramas that deliver true love, even if the romance is on the side. “Blade Runner” is a monumental cinematic achievement, and deserves every bit of its acclaim. But its heartfelt romantic qualities still get overlooked.
Romantic comedies get just as much play as serious romances. And although they’re usually sappy and unfunny, there are some quality ones out there. Pick a movie with substance over style. Think “10 Things I Hate About You.” The story is tried and true–Shakespeare again–and the soundtrack is pure nostalgic ’90s.
Don’t forget about Woody Allen. Most of his movies are better than anything else on this list, and the movie-makers themselves would agree with me. Go for “Purple Rose of Cairo,” “Hannah and Her Sisters” or “Hollywood Ending.”
“Stranger than Fiction” is an underrated masterpiece. Will Ferrell didn’t get any more famous from his role in this movie by any means, but he’s brilliant, and the writing and direction are on par with Allen’s.
Or if you’re feeling especially sly, grab a comedy that has a romantic element, even if that element is pretty small. Show her this clip from “Wayne’s World,” and maybe you’ll get to escape a sap-fest and watch an excellent comedy for the ages. “You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll hurl!”
Judd Apatow’s movies are also always good for a laugh. “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” “Knocked Up,” and “Funny People” are all well-developed story-driven contemporary classics.
Like I said in my previous post, if you’re single, you can obviously watch whatever you want. But if you’re coming off a break-up and want to wallow in your bitterness, try “500 Days of Summer.” Watch it early in the day or even over the weekend so you can hit up Jammin Java’s Morrissey/Smiths Valentine’s show–it’s the only place you’ll want to be after watching that movie.
Here’s a little something extra for you newly single:
I could go on for days, of course–this is a miniscule list. But I’m stopping here.
Don’t forget to stay tuned on our continued Valentine’s coverage. We’ll keep the ideas flowing all the way up until the big day.
–Matt Basheda
NVM Staff Mix Tape of Love Songs
Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Thursday, February 9th, 2012
“This Must Be the Place” by Talking Heads
My boyfriend made a mix tape with this song on it. It’s sweet, genuine, honest and a good karaoke song!
–Ashleigh Carter, graphic designer
“Crazy” by KC and Jojo
A previous boyfriend made a CD with this song. I love the intensity of the song … made the movie “Save the Last Dance” memorable.
–Jolleen Tran, marketing specialist
“’Til Kingdom Come” by Coldplay
“X&Y” came out when my hubs and I were first dating. I always loved this song especially, probably because I felt like, ‘Where have you been all my life?’ but knew he was worth any wait.
–Natalie Kaar, assistant editor
“When You Say Nothing At All” by Alison Krauss
It tops all other love songs for me. It’s all about that true love that can’t be described with words, but somehow this song does it!
–Bekah Lowe, new media specialist
“Angel/Better Together” by Jack Johnson
While listening to this song, I admitted to my girlfriend that I could imagine her in a white dress dancing with me to it. She has since become my fiancée.
–Jason Colón, marketing specialist
“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’” by Journey
It brings back a memory of screeching it at the top of my lungs in my car at a very long stoplight, not realizing a back window was open.
–Renee Ventrice, regional account manager
“In Spite of Ourselves” by John Prine and Iris DeMent
With such timeless one-liners as, “Convict movies make her horny,” who wouldn’t swoon?
–Elisa Glass, art director
“At Last” by Etta James
We spend a lot of time trying to find ‘the one.’ This song is the best song ever to express the feeling of knowing you finally, FINALLY have.
–Sonarak Leng, account executive
“We’ve Got Tonight” by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band
My husband and I were thinking about it for our wedding then decided probably best to not dance to a song about a one-night stand.
–Lynn Norusis, managing editor
Check out our complete guide to Valentine’s Day!
Pssst. We’ve Got Your Spring Fashion Sneak Peeks!
Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Hello, runway. / Photo credit: Lorin Drinkard
Like they say, fourth time’s the charm.
This week, Crystal City hosts the returning fashion frenzy of an event – Crystal Couture. Through Friday night, more than 40 designers from NoVA, D.C. and Maryland are strutting their latest and greatest spring lines on the runway for our viewing pleasure.
Date Ideas for the Seriously Serious Couple
Posted by Colleen Callery / Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
Valentine’s Day is creeping up, only a mere week away!
Don’t have plans yet? Don’t panic, yet. We have a few ideas you can check out to make the most of the holiday.
Get Classy: with a little Mozart
Alexandria Symphony Orchestra: Stoltzman and Mozart
Feb. 11 @ 8 p.m. and Feb. 12 @ 3 p.m. One of the most renowned figures in classical music, clarinetist Richard Stoltzman, will appear in Alexandria for two performances of the Mozart Clarinet Concerto. / Schlesinger Center at Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus; $5 children, $10 student, $30 senior, $35 adult.
Get Close: with an intimate Sunday brunch
Valentine’s Sunday Brunch at DuCard Vineyard
Feb. 12 @ 11:30 a.m. Enjoy a lovely Valentine’s Sunday Brunch catered by L’Etoile Restaurant of Charlottesville and featuring the beautiful harp music of Vicky Lee. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains serve as your scenic backdrop for this elegant date with your loved one. Limited seating, and advance reservations are required. / 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan (Madison County) VA; 540-923-4206; $40.
Get Culinary: with a cooking class
Cooking Class and Winemaker Dinner: Cooking for your Valentine
Feb. 10 @ 6:30 p.m. This class focuses on how to cook a great meal for your Valentine with Chef Mike Lund at Delaplane Cellars. Class sizes are small, so act fast! / Delaplane Cellars, 2187 Winchester Rd, Delaplane; 540-592-7210.
Get Wild: at the zoo!
Woo at the Zoo
Feb. 11 @ 4:30, 6:30, and 8:30 p.m. Looking for the “wildest” way to celebrate Valentine’s Day without breaking the bank? The Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s fourth annual Woo at the Zoo teaches you about animal mating, dating and reproductive habits in an honest and humorous forum. Be prepared to laugh riotously and maybe blush! Attendees will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and the opportunity to decorate sweets for your Sweetheart. A cash bar will feature specialty drinks served in the exclusive Woo at the Zoo commemorative glass. / Visitor Center auditorium, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC; 202-633-4470; $11 FONZ Members, $22 nonmembers; This event is restricted to adults age 21 and older (ID is required for admission).
Get Handcuffed: at the National Museum and Crime and Punishment
Crimes of Passion
Feb. 11-14 @ 4 p.m. to close. Back by popular demand, couples are invited this Valentine’s Day weekend to visit the museum and experience “Crimes of Passion.” Couples will be bound together as they tour the three levels with over 600 exhibits, special crimes of passion boards, and will hear true stories such as the “Valentine’s Vampire.” / 575 7th St NW, Washington DC; 202-621-5567; $45 per couple, must be 18.
Get Inspired: with an Art Gallery Talk
David Gariff speaks about Love in Art all throughout the month of February (including Valentine’s Day) in the West Building of the National Gallery of Art. Talks start at 1 p.m. and last about an hour.
Still looking for more ideas? Check out our events calendar for the entire month of February. If you are looking for a night out in the city, head over to datenightsdc.washington.org for help creating the perfect date.
Just for fun, here are a few exceptionally cute gift ideas:
Good Together Stacking Vessels by Pigeon Toe
Photo courtesy of pigeontoeceramics.com
“Say I Love You” Pillowcases by BoldLoft
Photo courtesy of BoldLoft
Blackboard Heart Card Kit by Bailey Doesn’t Bark
Photo courtesy of Bailey Doesn't Bark
-Colleen Callery
Posted by Colleen Callery / Monday, February 6th, 2012
It’s no secret Valentine’s Day is not for everyone. Admittedly, the overindulgence in sugary foods and celebration of emotional availability is not everyone’s cup of tea.
However, even for those that do appreciate the holiday, traditional Valentine’s Day gifts can be a bit.. overdone. To combat the commercialism and lazy reproductions of Hallmark cards, homemade cards and gifts are a great option.
There are a million ways to make a homemade card and whether its from a significant other, a family member, or just a friend, the time, thought, and originality in a homemade card can’t be beat.
But this post will focus on those looking for something a little more creative, or are just utterly tired of heart stamps and 3D pop-ups. Take a look below:
Invisible Ink: Bring back this childhood favorite by squeezing lemon juice to use as an “ink” and using a dip pen, small paint brush, or even a q-tip to write your secret message. The writing will be revealed under a heat source like a lightbulb, iron (with no steam), or candle (be careful not to ignite paper over a stove burner!). This crafter also incorporated the “message in a bottle” idea. So fun!
Photo courtesy of minieco.co.uk / lmnop.com.au
Temporary Tattoo: And no, I don’t mean the one you accidentally got on spring break. And I’m not talking about the glittery ones from the dollar store, either. (Although, those can be fun, too.) You can actually make your own temporary tattoos through the new iPhone app MoPho. For under $15 you can get a set of 16 tattoos of your very own photos! The possibilities are endless. Just keep in mind, these are kind of kitschy so embrace the humor and try to steer clear of something too cheesy.
Photo courtesy of MoPhoapp.com
Matchbox Candy boxes: Inchmark has some adorable and easy examples. Customize the outside of the boxes, include a note, and fill it with candy. Easy as pie. These are great for those in-between friends or co-workers who don’t quite make your list of full-blown gifts. (If you, in fact, have one of those.)
Photo courtesy of Inchmark.com
Framed Art: This project is a little more involved, requiring actual pieces of memorabilia or just trinkets from a craft shop, paint, hot glue, and framing the whole piece. But if you have this kind of time, and artistic inclination, the result could be amazing. Check out full directions here.
Photo courtesy of Designsponge.com
Valentine’s Kit: Design Sponge also has a brilliant idea for a Valentine’s Kit, which looks very similar to a picnic basket complete with wine, dessert, tea lights, flowers, and glasses (for drinking that delicious wine, of course). This is a low-key idea that can be enjoyed at home in front of a fire or a movie, and is a great adventure companion, perfect to bring along to a getaway destination.
Photo courtesy of DesignSponge.com
Finally, for those brave wordsmiths, why not try writing a poem? We don’t mean a sappy sonnet, dripping with love-y goo (eh, I guess some people are in to that). Funny, silly, thoughtful poems go a long way, too. And if you need some help? This mad lib poem generator is pretty fun.
Got more great do-it-yourself Valentine’s ideas? Send them our way!
-Colleen Callery