aliciaisbrown

Valentines Day

2012-02-13T19:19:00.002-06:00

I usually think of my family and friends on Valentine's Day. As far back as I can remember it's a day for laughs and giggles (driven by positivity), pass through school hallways. Or a day where girlfriends get together in support of their sisterhood, single or not. This year my sweetheart brought me to Famous Dave's Sunday brunch (since I'll be working V-Day). SO damn delicious.

Either way, I feel like its a day to focus on sharing love; with others or a whole lot with yourself.

Let's do it at Honey!

9:30

Love,

Alicia

Damn, Joe, damn.

2011-10-22T21:23:00.000-05:00

See you next Friday...

Holy crap, I'm playing The Dakota

2011-10-21T13:15:00.004-05:00

Seriously, I have wanted to play The Dakota since I was in high school! This means that I want you to come, yes, yes I do. You, your sweetheart, your landlord, whoever takes messages for you at work, that one guy you've ALWAYS wanted to ask out (DO IT) - all y'all.

We will try our best to have a good time on stage so you will in the place.

Oct 28 11:00pm

Alicia Steele & The Endeavors

@ The Dakota Jazz Club

1010 Nicollet Ave - MPLS

5 bones

THIS THURS aka Alicia Steele (and some of The) Endeavors Rehearse

2011-07-20T06:31:00.005-05:00

Come this THURSDAY July 21st, we're playing at 400 Bar over Cedar/Riverside
I've got cheaper tickets for you - five bones. We play from 10-11, but come early and chill with us.
Hustle Rose is playing after us and they are amazing! Bring your neighbor, or that one person, oh yea, you know exactly who I'm talking about.

400 BAR
400 Cedar Avenue

Upcoming Show! THURSDAY @ 400 Bar

2011-07-19T10:53:00.004-05:00

My sax player is a genius. He composed this piece for his Spring semester recital 2011. Memorize the name Nelson Devereaux, when you see it show up.
Live recording featuring:
Nelson Devereaux - Tenor Sax
Joe Strachan - Piano
Miguel Hurtado - Drums
Ben Kelly - Bass

April Fools by Alicia Steele

This THRUSDAY we're playing at the 400 Bar with Hustle Rose! I'm so excited - it's been too long for us to get together.

400 Bar
400 Cedar Ave South
Minneapolis

Doors 9 | $5advanced $7door (I've got tickets!! Get em cheap from me!)

Love, Alicia

Sistah Solo

2011-03-31T18:59:00.005-06:00

I feel extremely honored to be playing this show! The lineup is full of women that I am inspired by and close to. Friday night my cousin Sanika is drumming for me and Saturday my hommie Miguel will be playing.

It's going to be a powerful show!

Love,

Alicia

Sistah Solo
Fri | Sat
8pm - 10pm
$8 advance | $10 door

Patrick's Cabaret
3010 Minnehaha Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55406
(612) 724-6273
www.patrickscabaret.org

It's no sweat, I already planned your Friday night!

2011-03-14T09:12:00.007-06:00

It's getting warm out, I know you feel it, that little itch. That little itch your feet can't seem to ignore. I'll tell you what it is, they just want to go in the night! I've been really rationing my nighttime public affairs because I'm anemic and get too cranky for the cold. But quick! Look outside! The sun is shining, the snow is melting off your roof and its finally time to scratch that foot itch. Sounds nasty! Don't fight it...

SO, I planned your Friday night for ya! This weekend is going to be the jumpoff! Spring is coming, baby, lets celebrate.

I'm playing at Honey kinda early over the dinner hour. My sax player and usual bass player are out this time, BUT I'm really excited because my homeboy CORY GRINDBERG is back in town from music school in Chicago will be joining us. He is the shit, oh you'll see.

FRIDAY MARCH 18
Alicia Steele @ Honey
205 E Hennipen Avenue Minneaoplis
7:30-9:30PM
18+ | $5

Featuring:
Alicia Steele
Cory Grindberg - bass
Miguel Hurtado - drums
Joe Strachan - keys

Come and bring someone fine with you.

It'll be jazz/R&B and I got a request for reggae, so we're making that happen with this trio. If you've never been to Honey, it's like walking into a sexy bee hive. Come have a glass of wine, the beef satay is fire, and my goal is to have my parents dancing by 9:15. Wanna make a bet?

THEN ITS OFF TO HELLS KITCHEN FOR ASHLEY GOLDS CD RELEASE

Hell yes is the answer to Ashley Gold. She is the shit. Sometimes me being her biggest fan gets awkward since were pals, but I have great taste in music and I wouldn't steer you wrong. Ashley is the best song writer I know. Serious, I thought about it. She also has amazing control of her voice and plays guitar. I think a big reason that we get along is that she's appropriately crass like me - she's very fun to watch. It's going to be a great party, so after Honey lets go! I may have room in my car, but my keyboardist has tons of stuff so it'll be a tight ride.

ASHLEY GOLD "LATE BLOOMER" CD RELEASE PARTY!!
Hells Kitchen
80 9th Street So - Downtown Minneapolis
Erik Stoeckeler, Dance Muhammitz,
and hosted by Tish Jones
Doors at 10pm
21+ | $5
http://ashleygoldmusic.com/

Friday, baby! Can't wait...

I'm On Mike Frey's Album! aka Bum-rush his CD release SATURDAY

2011-03-10T10:17:00.004-06:00

I love working with Mike Frey. He's a smart ass, a terrible cook, pretty good shit talker, and an extremely talented musician. I'm featured on his debut album, Burnt Out, on the song "Connect." Check it out here (shhh...free download for ya): http://bit.ly/gzO4t0

Mike never lets me get away with being lazy with my voice, "Nope, Alicia, you weren't even listening to what you're doing that time," he'll say in his snarky voice behind the computer, "do it again." Often I record with folks they're happy with anything I do, which is really nice, and genuine, but I also need to grow. Mike is always challenging the elevation of my instrument and the music we create together.

Here's the video for
Connect - Mike Frey ft Alicia Steele

Much love to Mickey Lluebbey on the acrylic paint tip - the lady has skills. Talk nice and I might get you her contact, just sayin.

THIS SATURDAY!!!
BURNT OUT CD RELEASE SHOW!
I told Mike Ima bumrush the stage, come see how that turns out. But really, I just want you there because I'll be working a double that day, so I need your energy and face to look at.

Saturday March 12th @ The Nomad World Pub
Performances by:
Freeze & Mike Frey
Mally
Conflict of Interest
Midwest Konnect
Hosted by Greazy Greg

Happy New Year to DJ Gabe Garcia aka Easy Kale

2011-03-03T11:29:00.005-06:00

Kanser's DJ, DJ Gabe Garcia, is celebrating his birthday is today. If you know him, you know he'll prolly want to be out drinking tonight. If you know me, you know that's I'll be promoting some non-alcoholic way to celebrate. You can ease drop on the letter I'm sending him.

Hey Gabe,

Today is your birthday - Happy New Year! You said you want to learn how to cook more, a wonderful goal to have for your new year. I know you liked the kale I made up at Josh's grandparents place, so here's the recipe:

Easy Kale

1 large onion
1-2 bunches of kale (I like Dino kale, but use what's fresh and organic)
1 poblano pepper (or if you like it spicy, jalapeno)
2 cloves of garlic
olive oil
salt
pepper

Slice the onion into uniform pieces, not too small, you want them to cook slowly. Heat a fairly deep frying to med-low, add some olive oil to the pan, add onions and pinch of salt. Cook till translucent and caramely (could take like 10-15 min, but it's worth it - don't burn them). Mince the garlic and add to the onions. Stir them up a bit, but don't over-cook them, they'll get bitter and gross. A minute or two tops is enough.
Clean and cut the poblano and add it to the pan. Do the same with the kale. Add a few tablespoons of water to the pan to steam the kale. It will cook fast, only a few minutes are needed cause you don't want to cook out all the nutrients. Toss everything together to make sure its all incorporated nicely. Crack some fresh pepper on it, maybe another it of olive oil.
Taste it. Does it need salt? More garlic? Sometimes I add more garlic cause I like it.

Serve right away. Should serve 4-10 people depending on how much they like greens. Personally I could eat a whole plate of this.

VARIATIONS:

Add tomatoes and a habenero pepper
Balsamic vinegar and raisins
Might be good with curried beef or chicken

Either way, you can do this really easy! Nice side dish to cook for a special date, eh, eh?

Have a great birthday Gabe!

Love,

Alicia

Rap Wordle aka An Easy Distraction

2011-02-28T08:32:00.006-06:00

Wordle turns text into "word clouds," by taking the most used words in a group of text and highlights them. I've played with this before, this morning I used Original Hip Hop Lyrics Archive to see what some rappers in my world have on their minds most of the time.

Toki Wright - A Different Mirror

J Dilla - Welcome To Detroit

Dead Prez - Get Free

Queen Latifah - Black Reign

M.anifest

Desdamona - The Source Lyrics

Brother Ali - The Undisputed Truth

Wiz Khalifa

You can do it to. Curious about the words your boss repeats? What was really on your mind for your senior paper? Copy and past the text into Wordle here:

http://www.wordle.net/create

You can change the layout, the color, even the language. Yee ha.

Taco Thursday?

2011-02-24T09:26:00.002-06:00

It's not Tuesday. This is in preparation for next week, so you can make a more informed decision on which taco joint you'll be partaking in.

With all the wonderful taco spots on East Lake Street, how are you to know which one is the best? Talk to any frugal foodie on the Southside and they probably proudly claim loyalty to a taco spot on Lake - the closest we've got in Minneapolis to an authentic taqueria on the streets of Mexico City.

Being a lover of tacos, I decided to to some research, to once and for all claim who's taco reigns supreme. Brought my fellow foodie and musical gal pal Ashley Gold to put in a second opinion.

Tacos are rated based on their look, how easy they are to eat, toppings (that don't cost extra), salsa, overall taste and cleanliness of joint. Ratings run from 1 being the worst to 5 being top notch.

1. Tacos Pineda #1 - 311 E Lake Street

Tacos P has been, since I was in high school, my go-to place. They used to be open till 3am and had a condiment bar you could help yourself too. More recently they've gotten more efficient with their extras by counting out limes and spooning salsa by the tablespoon. Still, their tacos are bomb.

When you first walk in, all the meat choices are piping hot and fresh behind glass. I make my decision based on how everything looks that day. For our research, Ashley got chicken w/potatoes and I got chopped steak.

Ratings: $2.10/per taco

AG | AS

Look 4.5 4.5

Easy to Eat 4.5 4.5

Toppings: 4 4

Salsa: 4.5 4.5

Overall taste: 2 2.5

Cleanliness: 2 2

Tacos Pineda is the first taco joint you hit as you travel East of 35W. They fry the tacos up on both sides, nice, they don't get soggy when filled with massive portions of saucy meats. Veggie items are on the menu, but be cautious of the beans, they are cooked with lard. It's a pretty good place for a get in, get out food stop. There is seating, but it's very permanent looking. Very "badda bing, badda boom, outta here," says AG.

2. Taqueria La Hacienda - 334 East Lake Street #101

The spot is beautiful. Very bright and thought out design concept, good place for a meeting or a little date with your family. Is a community thinking place, offering up scholarships to students and placing flyers for local shows and news.

This round Ashley went with a cecina (salted beef) taco and I tried their barbaca (pulled beef simmered in a smokey spice red sauce).

Ratings: $1.85/per taco

AG | AS

Look 4 3

Easy to Eat 4 3

Toppings: 4 3

Salsa: 2 3

Overall taste: 4.5 4.5

Cleanliness: 5 5

At La Hacienda they want you to sit down and stay awhile. Along with comfortable seating, they have great drink options, delicious looking tres leche cake (that I so proudly declined), tiramisu and good music - the perfect combination for creating a happy itis in your system. We stayed for a little while and made new friends, Lala and Chris (ages 4 and 5). BONUS: They're open 24 hours Friday-Sunday!!!

3. Los Ocompo - 809 East Lake Street Suite 152

"It smells like a dirty mop, or wet dog in here," Ashley's not into it. "Like fermented gym socks." I didn't smell it, but hey, hence the need for two noses, mouths, and other senses. Since its right on the Chicago Ave and Lake St intersection, Los Ocompo is a great place for people watching and convening. No need to hit the neighboring liquor store, this place serves beer!

I had cecina and marinated chicken this time, Ashley ordered their vegetarian taco (not shown).

Ratings: $2.14/per taco

AG | AS

Look 4 4

Easy to Eat 2 3

Toppings: 2 3.5

Salsa: 3 4.5 (oh, man, that green sauce is killin em! Think there's avocado in it, mmmm)

Overall taste: 2.5 3

Cleanliness: 2 3

They give you two types of salsa per taco - red and green. That green salsa is serious. I ordered extra chips just so I could get more salsa. The chicken was REALLY dry, had good flavor, but you'll need that double up on salsa, or least a drink. Although having a vegetarian option is awesome, the beans in her taco were chalky and dry as well - least they have something though! BONUS: Two kinda of flan, and all sorts of desserts, drinks and an extensive entree selection.

4. Guayaquil - 1526 East Lake Street

Honest, I tried really hard at correctly pronouncing this joint, but all I could remember is, yo, it's the dollar taco joint on Bloomington and Lake - DOLLAR tacos! Being across from Mercado Central and Taco Taxi (ratings to come), you gotta find a way to compete. Into old school bachata karaoke? The gentlemen there during our trip certainly were! They offer it every Friday and Saturday till 2am.

Ratings: $1.00/per taco (beef or chicken)

AG | AS

Look 2.5 2.5

Easy to Eat 4 4 (pretty small, so goes down in about two bites)

Toppings: 3 3

Salsa: 3 4.5

Overall taste: 2.5 3

Cleanliness: 2 3 (do NOT go into the bathroom, maybe someone just had two $1 tacos too much, but whoa)

Beautiful mood lighting. Nice place to take your secret lover and bask in the after glow of neon beer advertising (no sarcasm here, totally felt sexy in there). It's warm by the windows, a great place to hang out during the winter and watch life outside. Their salsa had me singing in there, could have drank the stuff. It has multidimensional flavor, not just hot or garlicy - delicious!! Wish they have more options than just beef or chicken. The tacos themselves were quite greasy, so bring some antacid.

5. Taco Taxi - 1511 East Lake Street

Ashley was rooting for this place before we even stepped in, I had never been there. The menu, blasted on the wall soon as you walk in, is limited, just the basics, but they've got it down solid. Everything about Taco Taxi creates an environment of quickness. Quick order, quick pick up, the bright colors get you in and out of there pretty fast.

Ratings: $1.75/per taco

AG | AS

Look 4 3

Easy to Eat 4 4

Toppings: 3 3

Salsa: 5 3.5

Overall taste: 4.5 4.5

Cleanliness: 2 3

"if you like spice, you got it here," Ashley says as I wipe my tears of tasty pain. "Take this gringas." Yea, go easy on the salsa at first, spicy is the word. Word. We love the tortillas there, they have great flavor and tenderness while holding their shape with filling. The potion sizes are nice, not too heavy. I'd like to think they are looking out for your stomach later. Speaking of which, they don't have a public restroom there, kinda vital for a taco joint, no? Shout out to the sweet and sassy lady behind the counter and our new friends Sergio and Jose who have suggested us to come and get the "cabeza" taco next time. BONUS: THEY DELIVER!!! 612-722-3293

THE RESULTS!!

Now there are obvious inconsistencies with this research project. We didn't have the same type of taco each time and we got fuller as the research continued (possibly tainting each taco as we went along).

As we sat down and analyzed our notes to look at the overall tasting, we tried to take into consideration mainly the taste of the taco (hence this excursion) and experience. After careful consideration the winner is....

LA HACIENDA!!!!!

They have taken the gold with their 24 hour weekends, bright atmosphere, and juicy tacos. Congratulations to you for making plans to check them out this coming week, celebrating Taco Tuesday with you and yours.

Spots we didn't go to but know exist:

La Sirena Gorda (Midtown Global Market) - Try their Mahi Mahi tacos with cilantro aoli!

Mercado Central - There are all sorts of spots in there, so go hungry, leave happy.

El Nuevo Rodeo - Slammin salsa night, haven't had the tacos. Report back would be appreciated.

Where else (besides your aunties place) am I missing??

Come surpirse me at Patricks Cabaret!

2011-02-16T09:17:00.004-06:00

I'm playing this show on Thursday - you should come! It's an intimate theater, so we can fuck around. I might make you sing with me :). If anything, we can freestyle and chill. If you've never heard the guys I play with, you gotta come - they are amazing, amazing. If you've heard them, you know the deal.

Patrick's Cabaret
3010 Minnehaha Ave.
Southside MPLS 55406

8pm-10pm

Really hope to see you!

Love,
Alicia

Patrick’s Cabaret Coffeehouse Series begins! We are proud to feature two amazing artists who have been part of the Elements in Translation series here at the cabaret.

Featuring-

Alicia Steele

Erik Stoeckler

8pm
Pre-sale tickets arrive by 7:30pm
Free parking on Minnehaha Ave. and behind building on Snelling.

Alicia was raised with music. Hearing her father singing reggae every morning influenced her transition to formal training in school. She started getting training in opera, jazz, and choral ensembles. At a young very young age, Alicia earned rolls in college musicals and studied performance at the Children’s Theater Company. After taking a break from singing while going to school Alicia has been singing and traveling with local rap group Kanser in 2009; who just released a CD "Two For One." Her favorite places to perform in the city are Honey and Patricks Caberet.
"I love just singing acapella with a drum. Its more organic for me; allowing for mistakes and changes as I feel them - feels better. I try to be as participatory as possible, singing together. I really don’t like being up there by myself. The other musicians I play with are a show all amazing as
individuals, so together everything sounds so rich." Besides singing on stage and outside randomly, Alicia loves to prepare raw food, dance, teach sex ed and social justice workshops, go running and laugh hysterically with her girlfriends. You can also sometimes catch her singing at Catch-A-Case Mondays at Honey Lounge in Northeast Minneapolis.

http://www.myspace.com/kanser
http://aliciaisbrown.com
http://twitter.com/aliciaisbrown

Erik Stoeckeler, who was never known as "Manboy", is a notorious non=tourer, he only plays a few shows a month and is very selective about where and when he plays. Simple acoustic songs comprise most of his repertoire, but he also enlists the help
of a digital looper where he does multi-track looping which includes beat boxing, bass lines and the occasional rap breakdown. Erik likes playing both Hip Hop and Folk music but for some reason always finds himself up in front of Hip Hop crowds. Along with substitute teaching full time, Erik Stoeckeler has been writing and recording/producing songs. Watch for upcoming shows, new releases and check out his songs at myspace.com/sticky.

Last week aka Lazy post

2011-02-02T10:34:00.002-06:00

Illuminous 3 - Midtown Livin' (produced by King Karnov)

Greg Grease - Your Welcome (produced by Mike Frey)

Fun Set Friday aka Me and the Smart Carts Jan 14

2011-01-10T17:08:00.002-06:00

Come hang with us! Playing some of my (and your) favorite jams and some of my songs of course. They guys I'm playing with are SO talented! Come just to hear them. We play early, 8:00pm, before Turnt Up! So help us get the energy right for the dance party later.

I'd love to see you!

It will be a great place to chill on a Friday night with your homies, invite them - we'll deliver! Trust, practice has been real fun. :)

See you Friday?

5 bones at the door.

Micah Fitch on keys
Miguel Hurtado on drums
Nelson Deveroux on tenor sax, flute, and goodness what else...
Ben Kelly on bass

Love,
Alicia

Honey
205 Hennipen Ave. South
MPLS, MN
8:00-10:00
$5

TURF FEINZ aka Tribute Dance aka Yak Films

2011-01-03T22:32:00.005-06:00

I first saw this video on my homie DJ Todda's Facebook page. I was totally blown by these dude's style. Then this weekend my only and I started to do some more research into who these guys were and what has been inspiring YAK Films.

Most of their dance features are concentrated in the Oakland, CA; showcasing TURF dancing. Rooted in the Boogaloo and ignited by the hyphy movement, turfing is a complex elevated mix of tutting, popping, b-boying, mime, and in my eyes, some ballet. I mean, the shit is so smooth and straight magical. The ways these guys move their bodies is proof of meticulous time practicing their craft. Getting every corner angle matched, every muscle even and balanced.

TURF FIENZ "Rip Rich D"

Most of the TURF FIENZ | YAK Films series of videos are dedicated to someone lost in their community. This collection they did for Oscar Grant is beautiful. Filmed where Oscar was murdered by police, the TURF FIENZ reenact and express their feelings towards the injustice with a memorial dance. It is gut-wrenchingly sad and deep to watch them dance right on top of where he was murdered. A place where most might lay flowers, it shows what they feel is most important and most beautiful to honor someone passed.
Check their YouTube Channel for full statement about this piece.

TURF FIENZ "RIP Oscar Grant"

The filmmakers do an extremely successful job at documenting the dance. I really dig the music and editing; I just get lost in each video. My favorite is "RIP 221." The sequence with the thick guys wearing a red checkered jacket is ill! I love the way he gets cut in and out with the movement of traffic - so nicely done (oh, you'll see, cause you'll wanna watch it start till fin). All accompanied by dub-step thumping beats, which I really like. You don't need to hear their voices to understand what is going on. It just lets the story be told through their movement.

Each dancer has a different style, while still connecting to their theme. They all really know what they are doing - performers for sure. First hit you with a crazy illusion of a move then do something broken-down, simple and smooth. Gives your mind a little time to catch up to what you just saw, and yes, yes he did manipulate his body like that.

Here's my favorite, so far. Shot in the same honor as the Oscar Grant piece, the emotional dance pays tribute to Kenneth Ross.

"[The video] was posted on 17 December 2009 a few days after Kenneth "211" Ross was shot and killed by police in Oakland. You didn't hear about this death on the news and that is what makes this memorial video more important and perhaps more socially informative--the reality is that young black men in this particular neighborhood in East Oakland die prematurely and their deaths often go unnoticed by the public." From www.examiner.com

TURF FIENDZ "RIP 211"

Just as Africans have told legends of life and death through movement, these brothas have too felt the need to release the stories around them through dance. Needed healing for black men in Oakland while beautiful people around them unfairly fall to systematic oppressors like the police and faulty justice system.
I do wish for this healthy release to continue for the TURF FIENZ and those around them. I'm sure what they are doing is spreading and hopefully bringing some emotional peace. Maybe the police will start to see how gifted and needed these men are to their community. There isn't a late pass big enough to hand out for that.

BONUS VID:
LOS RAKAS "Soy Raka" by Yak Films

Getting Ready for Project Homeless Connect

2010-11-30T20:37:00.011-06:00

I just got out of this training for Project Homeless Connect Day, Monday, December 13th at the MPLS Convention Center. The training was informative for me. I don't know a lot about the current statistics around homelessness. It also gave me a chance to learn who Project Homeless Connect is and what they are doing to end homelessness in MN, not just manage it. I will be volunteering during this years event, accompanying 2,000-3,000 Minnesotans looking to prevent or come out of homelessness.

I really like this organization. Serious, you should sign up to volunteer. That way instead of me telling you about my experience and you wanting to do it next year, you can just do it this year!

They've stated it best on their website.

Project Homeless Connect is a one-stop shop model for delivering services to people experiencing homelessness. Twice each year, Hennepin County and the City of Minneapolis partner with service providers, businesses, citizens, and faith congregations to bring multiple resources to one central location where people can come to access the services they need.

These services include housing, employment, medical care, mental health care, benefits and legal assistance, eye doctors, haircuts, chiropractic, and dental care. The first of these events occurred on December 14, 2005, at the Basilica of St. Mary. It was a tremendous success, involving 250 volunteers and service providers and serving over 500 men, women, children, and youth experiencing homelessness.

The organizers have really thought the event through. I mean, seriously, I went in ready to ask mad fed-up-angry-brown-woman questions, but after doing it for five years the event has only gotten better and more useful for the community. They have all sorts of interpreters, a huge youth (of ages 23 and under) section, folks issuing free state ID's or birth certificates and a lot more impressive thought-out services.
I am really impressed with what people can walk out of their with. Last year they gave out hundreds of free eye glasses, free eye exams, flu shots, shoe vouchers. People have been able to leave with dentures, a hair cut, and a mental health exam, or the big one, housing.

Today's training opened with their definition of homelessness, "Homelessness is when somebody can not afford a place to live." It is as simple as that. This is really important because we need not to blame the people that are homeless. Not having the money to afford housing is a deeper issue than blaming individuals. At minimum wage, you would need to work 80 hours a week to be able to house yourself in Hennepin County. That is an absolutely unrealistic situation for anybody, let alone having to raise a family, or while trying to turn your life around. I do realize that there are important factors to be transparent about: drug abuse, alcohol addiction, mental illness, factors leading people to homelessness. Still, so many people have those issues and can still afford housing and have the support that keeps them there. ~~Of course this is much due to institutional racism, but that's another blog.~~ The lack of jobs has significantly added to the rates of homelessness and now about 50% of homeless people in MN are youth. This has become certainly more than individual problem easy to turn away from, this is affecting all of us, because this is our community and not everyone is being taken care of.

What really stood out to me is the way everyone gets treated during the event. The organizers even broke logistics down to not wanting guests waiting in line when they first arrive, "They wait in line everywhere, we want to eliminate this as much as possible on Dec. 13th."

Look, you should volunteer. I think my homie Ronnie is going to do it with me too. I've already signed up and gone to the training. Brown people, we need you out there. A high number of homeless people in the city are our brothers and sisters and it is important that we come and support them. ALL people, you're reading about this in a warm place, perhaps with clothes you purchased, maybe even on your own computer, I won't take struggle from anyone, but it is important that we recognize our privilege and support our communities in need.

I know they are also still looking for people that cut hair, so my barbers and stylists, I know y'all have the day off on Monday. Why not floss your skills December 13th?

TRAINING DATES LEFT:
Saturday, 12/4, 10-11:30am
Ridgedale Library
12601 Ridgedale Drive
Minnetonka, MN 55305

Tuesday, 12/7, 7-8:30pm
Brookdale Library
6125 Shingle Creek Pkwy
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55430

Wednesday, 12/8, 10-11:30am
Southdale Library
7001 York Avenue South
Edina, MN 55435

There have been eight events since the first Project Homeless Connect at the Basilica, and the event has grown to serve thousands of individuals seeking services with the help of nearly 1,300 volunteers each time. Our next event will be held on December 13, 2010, and we need roughly 1,300 volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please click here.

You Came to Honey on Thursday

2010-11-01T12:09:00.005-06:00

I could not have imagined how much fun I had at the show I threw last Thursday @ Honey, and it was all because of YOU! You came, you danced, you ate, drank a little, met some people, colored, made me feel extremely warm, sang along, and gave some love. You are the shit and it means the world to me.

So much love to the West African dancers/percussionists: Kristy, Patricia, Dan, Eliezer, and Sanika. You guys really set the energy for the night and certainly inspired me to get down.

I told you! Erik Steockeler is the shit, right?! I know him and I are playing again in January at Patrick's Caberet, but Google him and find out where you can see him again sooner!

Love to Tarnish&Gold Gallery for coming and bringing interactive art for those of us not ready to dance. You added a much needed element.

Thank you Honey for having us!

To the band that played with me (Nelson Devereaux, Micah Fitch, Miguel Hurtado, Ben Kelly, Arit Harvanko, Sanika Brown), so much love to you for being patient with me and giving me your time and input. It means more than I actually verbalize, I just don't want to scare you away. :) Oh, and forcing me to make up a song at the end, you sneaky band you.

So you made me feel great and made others feel great. You brought the party and kept it going till close. This most definitely inspired me to work on more music and throw more shows in the future.

Love, love, explosion, love, food, peace,

Alicia

--

If you were here, I'd give you some of this ginger/honey corn cake I made yesterday. Here is the recipe:

Ginger/Honey Corn Brunch Cake
3/4c yellow cornmeal
1 1/4c of gluten free pancake mix
2t baking powder
1/2t salt (optional)
1/4c honey
1c milk (I used hemp milk cause it was on sale)
2 egg whites
2T fresh grated ginger (3T if ya nasty)
zest of one orange

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix ingredients together, dry first, then add wet and mix till incorporated - don't overmix now. Butter a pan, I used a ceramic 11x5in oval, pour in mixture and bake for 30-35 min. If you are using muffins, check on them around 15 min and gauge how long they need from there. Cake should be golden brown.
BONUS: Right after the cake comes out the oven mix 1/4c honey with 1T ginger and some orange zest, drizzle it over the top of the cake to glaze.

I forgot to take a photo of the cake before I brought it to Jesse's house for brunch yesterday. Turned out pretty tasty from what I heard.

Brown Folks at Ren Fest and Redwing

2010-11-01T09:42:00.009-06:00

We asked the lady to take a photo and she shot like 5 in a row of the same thing! Goodness, lady, I use FILM! Geeze we live in a digital world.

Serious, he could have stayed there all day. Apparently there is a huge drum circle at the end of the last day near the entrance. I'd like to go next year, I know Dad wanted to stay. I felt kinda bad that we had to leave earlier.

WHAT?! Another brown family at the Renaissance Festival? Serious, its rare out there.

This is Baby Gracious, he plays guitar, makes very nice beats for Kanser and other folks who like good music, and is an all around amazing person.

Practicing indoors now since its too cold outside.

Happy New Year, Shells!

We went to Regwing. Here's a big-ass boot.

You can take one of two trail to the top of this river bluff, the North trail or the South trail. The North trail is blocked off, so naturally we took it.

Something was watching through the Birch trees.

The top of this bluff had the best view of the city.

Hang out with me and I'll be your paparazzi too.

Fall Fin

I'm Playing at Honey!

2010-10-21T19:30:00.005-05:00

I'm so pumped to be playing my first solo set with a full band - just me singing! OH MAN!
Today I had tea with my older sister and she made fun of my hype behavior. I told her how great the band is and how good everything sounded at rehearsal last night. Seriously, the folks I'm playing with are crazy. I feel so blessed and honored to be playing with them and learning from them.

Google baby:
Micah Fitch - Keys (aka my jazz theory teacher)
Nelson Deveroux - Sax (of many varieties, good lawd)
Miguel Hurtado - Drums (serious, he is his own show - fills out of this world)
Ben Kelly - Bass (got intuitive licks, baby)
Sanika Brown - Djembe (my cousin! we playing solo pieces too)

And Erik is dope. We've done short variety shows together and performed together before. He is extremely creative, engaging, hilarious, and talented. We've been wanting to get on a bill together for a while, so I'm excited that Honey is having us.

Here is Erik performing
Magic B.o.b. Cover

Okay, all serious, I really want you to come, bring your people, and have a good time.
Chill, dance, sit close, have a drink, meet somebody, or my parents, they'll be there.

Love,
Alicia

Doors at 9:30 (DJ Jus9 will be surly making you dance)
My girl Kristy and her people are getting us started with West African Dance at 10:15
18+ | $3

@Honey
205 East Hennepin Ave. NE
Minneapolis.

It is not a game, its the Renaissance Festival

2010-10-04T11:08:00.007-05:00

My dad loooves the Renaissance Festival. It is so serious, to a level that I didn't fully understand till yesterday when we went. He won a barter for this "king's goblet," got the guy down $7 from the original price. Dad bought me one too and filled it with wine - he had three cups. We made sure to hit the essentials: smoked turkey leg, spinach pie, and nut rolls (where he frightened a few young booth-workers for not having the cashew variety). He talked to every stranger that made eye contact, yelled out a plethora of "hazaah," and at least three times commented on how we should have dressed up (like he used to with Mom).
A very fun and memorable day being publicly semi-intoxicated with my father.

This puppet show was semi-funny, but laughable with wine. You could see the performers mouths move while puppets sat on their hands. At one point they explained that the puppets were actually the ventriloquists because their mouths didn't move when the handler spoke. I freaking that that was hilarious, so they asked me to volunteer because I engaged. At the end, I didn't put money in their hat because I was a part of the show.

An apple massage. Just go with it.
--

DJ Fujun and Josiah

Energize Anniversary Party @ The Record Room

My cousin Sanika cooked and served brown stewed chicken and rice for the party. It was so tender I accidentally ate a bone and straight didn't care.

Beautiful baby Kaeyo and Mama Lana for potlu

I just follow this girl around...

Mannysofresh

Every Freyday

I wonder what she is digging for?

One student at a time, I'm going to get them in to raw food.

Food For Fall aka Garlic Toddy

2010-09-20T14:38:00.005-05:00

For the first time in months I've had to wear socks at night, I brought out the fleece blanket, and no more going out in just my ILLEGAL t-shirt. It's fall, baby. When the temperature drops, our immune systems get put to work, fighting against nature for some stability. It's hard trying to guess the weather now and our bodies certainly get the worst of it, trying to adapt to the ever changing elements of fall.

So, like me, it's a possibility that you might get sick. I had strep throat at record numbers as a child and never got my tonsils out, so I'm extra inviting for germs to rent my body for the season. Luckily I rarely get strep, I get her annoying and more powerful cousin tonsillitis. Ever had it? It's like strep+flu+PMS+hangover and I get it at least twice a year. Well, at least I used to get it twice a year. This year I've decided that I'm not going to take a month off to heal myself, but am going get ahead of ol'litius by using a magical food - garlic!

Yes, garlic. It seasons sauces, and just in time for Halloween, it keeps away vampires (no seriously, I don't like vampires).

(Below/warning: a gross tale about how wonderful garlic is)
Really, garlic is absolutely amazing. Last year my dear friends Blake and Lencer both got attacked by a staff infection. It is a potentially severe infection that was eating away at their skin. I have never seen anything like it and neither had they. Both of them were prescribed tons of antibiotics and had to visit their doctor frequently. Not only was the infection staying, but it started spreading.
Finally, my sister looked up natural methods of healing staff infections and garlic had rave reviews. The gentlemen packed their wounds with garlic and the infection cleared up right away. None of us could believe it, garlic truly has miracle compounds.

So this experience fueled my inspiration for my garlic toddy. I figured if garlic could cure a staff infection, why not try it on my tonsillitis?

Garlic Toddy -or- Garlic Tussin
1 large clove of fresh garlic (organic if you have access)
1 large lime
3-4 T honey
dash of sea salt
optional: 5-7 drops of grapefruit seed extract
hot water

Directions: Grate the garlic with a microplane (if you don't have one, use a grater, if you don't have one mince it up fine) and place it in a large mug. Juice lime and add to garlic. Add honey, salt, grapefruit seed extract, and water. Stir well and drink slowly. Even gargle a few times before you drink it down.

I was at my girl Danielle's place, her and her daughter made so much fun of this drink (shout out to her for naming it), but seriously it is not that bad. I've grown to even like it. People might smell garlic when you are drinking it, but it isn't overbearing. The lime and honey take away anything too powerful.

Garlic, the tussin of the produce section.

B-GIRL BE!

2010-08-27T11:52:00.010-05:00

If you didn't already know about it, I wont scold you, but now that you know I expect that you are cool and plan to join me here.
B-Girl Be, and international celebration of women in hip-hop, is coming up (well, the amazing art gallery "Sideshow" is up at Intermedia now)! I am so proud that MN has been hosting this event for the past five years. Intermedia Arts has been flying in b-girls, graffiti writers, DJs, MCs, scholars from all over the world to come together and celebrate woman making serious moves on the hip hop scene. The event is driven by really positive energy - genuinely celebrating each other and appreciating all facets of hip hop equally.
Bring your honey, your babies, your students, neighbors, co-workers, your boyfriends little sisters. Swear it will be an influential experience for them - it has been for me! It's an inspiring event!

CLICK HERE for schedule of B-Girl Be schedule of events!

This year the workshops are going to be off the chain! Dance curator Amy Sackett has worked her ass off getting amazing artists here to share their skills with Twin Cities dancers (of all levels of experience). Pandora, who is teaching a tutting class, was recently featured in Step Up 3-D! Yo, those movies can have some corny storylines, but there is no damn denying the level of skill it takes to get on the big screen as a dancer. B-Girl Aruna basically runs Rotterdam, Holland and is coming all the way over seas to teach a class.
Classes on tutting, popping, power moves, top rocking, and even a class for choreographers will certainly be something you don't want to miss. If you know any dancers make sure to pass the opportunity along.

And, yo, where my guys at? Fellas, I understand its called B-Girl Be, but let me make a formal invitation to you and your homeboys, COME TO B-GIRL BE. Yes, you are invited to celebrate, learn, and share space with the rest of us. In fact, the block party performances will be featuring male performers "battling" female performers. So, shit, come. I'll be doing a set with Greg Grease in the evening and want ya'll there too.

If you're in the LynLake area, go check out SIDESHOW now! The work is absolutely beautiful. I really love visual art because it is so far out of my capacity to create. These woman really have a unique gift.

SIDESHOW FEATURED ARTISTS:
Michele Spaise
Christina Rimstad - check her mirrored self portrait - beautiful!
Katrina Knutson - I love her stuff man. Her stencils are sick!
Keegan Xavi - I wanted to buy ALL of her pieces. Super colorful and my style.
Rebecca McDonald
Jessica Kitzman
Ivoire Foreman

I can't remember exact named connected to all pieces, but serious business, its all amazing.

--

Here's a link to some photos from past events: CLICK HERE

B-Girl Be 2005

B-Girl Be 2006 Documentary

Walgreens told me photo developing was on sale

2010-06-19T10:20:00.005-05:00

So I figured it was perfect timing to develop some old lomography film I had sitting around in a shoebox. One of rolls was OLD and full of things that should have been kept in the drawer I had it in. Most of it is fun and recent stuff from Kanser trips to Mothers Day with Mom and Dad and outtings with my girlfriends. A lot of me trial-and-error learning about lighting.

Director Chris Cloud from MPLS.TV at Kanser video shoot

My homie Asias brithday party. One of the girls won the limbo competition and get to have a free party for like 40 people. It's kindof a big deal.

The old Seward Co-op before they took all the pieces down. I really thought they had said the art would be incorporated into the new building - I thought.

Mothers Day at the Como Zoo with Mom and Dad.

Oh, and by the by, Walgreens was not having a sale - lame.

Selecta Steele 331 Club Playlist aka DJ, help me learn!

2010-05-04T14:01:00.008-05:00

I wanted to just compress all these files and upload them to the internet, but I couldn't figure it out. Plus, who knows how the artists feel about me putting they work up for free...

Well, here is what gergirl played if you didn't get a chance to make it. I'd say this playlist sounds best in the evening, perhaps while you're making your daily greens for dinner.

Here is the link to the playlist on YouTube: Click me and listen

Free Soul - Jackie Mittoo
Cherry Oh Baby - Eric Donaldson
America (feat. Mos Def and Chali 2NA) - K'naan
Daktari Walk - The Daktaris
Dubbing it Raw - King Tubby Vs. Wu Tang
I Need a Dollar (How to Make It In America) - Aloe Blacc
Barber Shop -Toki Wright (prod by PMusic
Here I Am - BK-One & Benzilla
18 - Benzilla (Each One Teach One)
Rollin (Dirty) - Pac Div
I'll Call Before I Come - Outkast
Jacques Cousteau - Kooley High
Trick Me - Kelis
Tell Me - Groove Theory
Shorty Swing My Way - Remix KP & Envy
Make It Hot - Missy Elliott/Mocha/Nicole
Creep - TLC
Black Hand Side - Queen Latifah
World Wide - Urban Thermo Dynamics (Mos Def)
Know Ur Hood - DJ Jazzy Jeff
Mars Remix - Blu
P. S.- Jean Grae
Block Party - Power Struggle
Love, Peace & Nappiness Lost Boyz
Bubblegoose - Wyclef Jean
Horse & Carriage - Cam'ron
Travellin' Man (DJ Honda) - Mos Def
Heart - Rocky Rivera
Stay Up (Young N' Fresh Remix) feat. HaLo - Kooley High
O.D.O.O - Fela Kuti
Turn Me Away (Get Munny) - Erykah Badu
Awake - Freddie Joachim
Beach Cruising (Prod. By DJ Revolution) - Bambu
Feeling Good Feeling Great(produced by Javier Santiago) - Greg Grease (download FREE)
Last Night - Mission
No One Knows Her Name - Hi-Tek Feat. Big D and Piakhan
Fantasy feat. Pacific Division - Jay Dee
Soldier (Kooley High Remix) - Kooley High
Falling Forward - Traditional Methods
Anything Is Everything - The Dynospectrum
Thrift Stores & L's - Illuminous 3
How High (Remix) - Method Man & Redman
Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik - OutKast
Cell Therapy - Goodie Mob
Forever - Little Dragon
Who's Gonna Save My Soul - Gnarls Barkley
I'm a Woman - Peggy Lee
The Thanks I Get For Loving You - Candi Staton
Funky President - James Brown
Its Oh So Quiet - Betty Hutton
La Vie En Rose - Edith Piaf
Love Like That (Featuring Aby Wolf) - BK-One
Robokid - Kendra Morris
Kites - Dessa
Out My Mind, Just In Time - Erykah Badu
Chuck & Sean's Trivia Theme - Amethyst Factor
Walk Away from Love - Bitty McLean

Selecta Steele!! aka SO you don't usually go out Sundays

2010-04-29T10:47:00.005-05:00

This Sunday I'm DJing at the 331 Club for Chuck and Sean's Trivia night. And by DJing I do mean I'll be responsible for choosing the music for the night.
I have eclectic taste in music; a lot of 90s girl groups, rap, reggae, gothic stripper anthems, dub mash-ups, West African soul. I want to represent myself, while making the Pabst dranking usual trivia masters happy. Sean is also a musician, so I feel the pressure to come with the business.
Trivia night is so fun. There is a lot of hilarity that comes off the stage, and the prizes are great.
Insiders secret, I'm bringing some extra prizes - you'll want them,trust.
If you've never been, you should most definitely come by! I'll need somebody there to get excited when I play Zhane.

ITS FREE and the drinks are cheap. Come get one last hoorah before the work week.

331 Club
331 13th Ave. NE MPLS
Yes, they'll have food

Here are some examples of questions I got from their website and my memory:
- How many does the Times Square ball descend at the culmination of the New Year’s Celebration?
- The fastest wheel on train service was recently opened. What is the maximum speed it can run per hour in kilometers?
- What was the name of Erykah Badu's first album?

Here is a likkle of what songs play in my head on a daily:
King Tubby vs. ODB - Dubbing It Raw

Freedie Joachim

Edith Piaf - La Vie En Rose

Bambu - Beach Cruising

Aloe Blacc - I Need A Dollar

TLC - Baby, Baby, Baby

Happy World Pinhole Camera Day! aka My Plans This Sunday

2010-04-24T11:06:00.004-05:00

Photo by phaliyp on Lomography.com

This Sunday, April 23rd is World Pinhole Day. Deemed by Lomography.com, this is the day we celebrate photography in its most primitive elements: photopaper, light, and hand developing.

Making the camera is really easy. You can do it with stuff you have around the crib usually. It's the developing that can get tricky since you have to have special chemicals and a dark room. I've developed my own 35m photos before, which I really like doing, but I had access to a developing studio. I'll have to make due with my bathroom.

Here is a great video about how to make and use a pinhole camera and how to develop the photos.
MakeMagazing - How To Pinhole Camera:

One thing that the guy Bre Pettis had trouble with in this vlog is the exposure. I found a thorough exposure guide on pinhole.org to be really helpful. It takes into consideration the size of your camera, pinhole diameter and the weather. Tomorrow in MPLS it's going to be a little rainy and cloudy, so the site suggests 36 min. I wanted to have me and my pinhole partner in the photos, but at that exposure time I don't think that's crackin.

I think I'm going to try to make multiple cameras with a shoebox, oatmeal container, soup can; I want to test out different distances between pinhole and photopaper.

Pinhole.org has been the most helpful site for this. Here are some beautiful pinhole photos I liked:

Antonio Galindo

Ardine Nelson

Adrien Arles

HEY NOW! I'm in a music video sanging!

2010-04-21T14:56:00.002-05:00

Check us out!

Official music video for "Positive Punchlines" by Kanser featuring Alicia Steele. Directed by Chris Cloud. Director of Photography/Editor: Dan Huiting

Kanser feat. Alicia Steele - Positive Punchlines from Dan Huiting on Vimeo.

This was so fun to make! I have some behind the scenes photos being developed too, but the guys got it filmed and edited so fast the video came out first!

Many many thanks to my ladies that came out: Nicole Brown, Alissa Paris, Marissa Carr, Jasmine Abraham, Shelly Martin, Jessica Ricketts, Heather Kressin, and Lashowna Dukes.

No girls were intoxicated during the making of this video.
Accept me, I had a green kombucha before my scene and was silly with the quickness.

KFC Double Down aka This Sandwich is Real?

2010-04-19T11:22:00.008-05:00

This is the nastiest thing I've seen in a min. Slightly resembeling the SNL Taco Town sketch, the new KFC Double Down Chicken Sandwich is not a joke. KFC has outdone its unhealthy, unethical fast food competition by nixing sandwich bread and replacing it with two fried chicken breasts. Inside this gem is layers of cheese, bacon, and some condiments - no veggies (as if that would make a difference). If you are really trying to stay away from the carbs, they do have a grilled option. Yuck.

KFC Double Down Chicken Sandwich

SNL Taco Town

Here is my guy ShiftRisto's visual response to the creation:

With all that said, I watched Food Inc. finally. I already knew I would love it, I just needed to take the time to sit down get it over with. It is no surprise that our food industry is unfathomably unhealthy. Once you learn the quantitative effects that food is having on our world/local economy, death rates, the planet, it is undeniable how much big (irresponsible) businesses are focused on profit.

Food Inc. - Unintended Consequences (about FDA "safety")

Please, please watch this film. Watch it with your children, watch it with your parents. Cook dinner, have your friends over and watch it - really. This film and information about our health is that important.
Here are a few more clips of the film:
Food Inc. - Beef Filler (In roughly 75% of all beef)
Food Inc. Clip - The Dollar Menu

Having trouble getting in those veggies? I'll give you one of my favorite dressings I made up last summers raw season. I put it on everything and my non-raw homies love it!

Orange Ginger Sesame Dressing
Juices of 1-2 oranges
1/4 c of toasted sesame oil
1 T grated ginger
1 clove grated garlic
1 T scallions sliced thin
1 T toasted sesame seeds
salt and pepper to taste

I like it best over mixed greens, peppers, broccoli, maybe some roasted asparagus , but you know what you like best. It is so nice. Salut!

Eff you, KFC

Face Forward Show THIS WED @ FIRST AVE

2010-04-19T09:23:00.005-05:00

I'm playing this fundraiser Wednesday at the First Avenue Mainroom. Its going to be thorough! There will be poets, bands, dancers, a fashion show, and I'll be doing a set with my guy Greg Grease playing the drum for me.

If you've never seen me play before this is certainly the show to come to. My set is short and at 9:30 sharp. I'll be rushing there after work with Grease.

Everyone involved in the show is volunteering their time and talent, and all proceeds will go towards the construction of a school in India that is run by the Charitable Association for the Vulnerable Emancipation Trust (CAVE).

Introducing: Face Forward http://www.faceforwardmn.com

Trelawny, Trelawny aka I still wanna be in Jamaica

2010-04-05T18:29:00.005-05:00

First morning, my first orange. In cousin Vee's backyard and garden.

My dear, dear friend FranzDiego and left MN for 10 days to my fathers hometown in Jamaica. A trip well overdue for myself. I haden't been back to see any of my family since the 90s! Of course I've wanted to go since then, but never seemed to find the money to go. Until my uncle recently had a stroke I never made it a priority.

Originally I planned to go and take oral histories from my family. My grandfather passed a few years back and I never got to know him - only stories. I've talked to my grandfather, but not as an adult. I took him for granted and my heart breaks that I didn't get to learn from his personal memories. I miss him deeply.
I love hearing how my family grew up in Jamaica. The stories that my father, uncles and aunties share are rich in lessons about relationships with community, family, partners, the earth. It wasn't until the past five years or so that we have re-connected. Growing up we didn't see them as much as we did my moms side of the family (that's a WHOLE other blog, baby); they still love us and treat us like we've always been around.

So I wanted to digitally record the stories for my families archive, probably blog them. When Franz and I got there I realized it was a real privilege for me to think I could do so. I hadn't seen my family for years; I met some of my cousins for the first time. For me to come up in there asking questions just didn't feel right. I don't want to feel like a researcher to my own family. I want the history to be documented, but only organically. I need the love to be heard, the same richness that I get from my family here. For that to happen my relationship needs to be stronger, that's the only way I want to do it.

This trip is the first of many for me to rebuild my family relationships that are so important and to learn about our history.

COUSIN VEE GARDEN AND YARD

Cousin Vee's backyard and garden. She grows ackee, nezberry, aloe, and breadfruit.

Our first breakfast of ackee and saltfish, boiled green bananas, and Trelawny staple, yam.

I have to admit I was a little nervous. We stayed with my fathers cousin Vee. She is retired now. Her and her sister are staples in their community. They straight know everyone! Partly cause Miss Vee worked at the hospital, so she knows about everyone's pains, recoveries, and births. When we walked around with her you can feel the genuine respect people have for her, probably because she cares so much about her neighbors. This is a reason why she "could never live in the states," because neighbors don't talk to each other.
We spent the morning getting ready to hit the beach. Our poor melanin thirsty for Jamaican sun. I was straight yellow/green when we first got there. Miss Vee fed us TOO good, "You're on vacation! Come now, eat." Every meal would stretch our bellies with satisfaction.

From the moment we purchased tickets I craved Jamaican oranges. They are SO delicious. There is nothing like them in the states. The skins are thin and kinda tough. You have to peel half the rind off, just the orange colored part, leaving the soft white as a cup. Slice the orange in half horizontally and suck all the juices out.
You going to Jamaica soon? Smuggle some in. At least try. I'll put $5 on a bag.

Really, I should explain that we were in Falmouth, Trelawny, one of the oldest slave towns in Jamaica. It is a very historic city and has been basically untouched by US consumerism (which is sadly about to change). The city is pretty small, about 9,000 people live there. My families live in towns around Falmouth.
Burwood Beach is the beach locals go to. There aren't too many tourists sights in Falmouth, so really every spot is a local spot. Sunny owns the small shack, where he sells beer, snacks and other items of the herbal variety. We spent hours there the first day. My cousin Laura's husband, Shorty, the best taxi driver in Trelawny, called us worried we were stuck there. We had a few sets of parents, so sweet.

BURWOOD BEACH

We walked down the beach trying to find my fathers old property. Walked for hours (later I asked Dad and he said it was only a 10 min walk from Burwood).

Franz, how do you feel right now, brother?

He disappeared for a good min, like an hour. I was kinda mad cause I was by myself. I forgave him cause we were in Jamaica. Plus a dude scolded him for leaving me.

The only sun block we could find, spf90+whitening. Yea, that's a sand vagina, how you feel?

I'm so happy to have met my cousin Laura's family. Its so crazy! She has a baby and a husband now! They are beautiful and really kept us alive during the trip. Her son is on of the smartest and oldest 8 year olds I've ever met. Straight hilarious. Ricardo, her son, introduced his personality as reserved and respectful, like most Jamaican children. However, her personality came out strong when we visited them after school one day. Ricardo, Michael, and Shimar, my cousins kids, all taught us how to play marbles. I suck. Royally. Franz got it right away. He can play for keeps, but I should play

They were so sweet and patient waiting for me to get the hang of pitching. Ricardo looks frustrated with his student, lol, me. Its Michael, Shimar (who apparently is the best pitcher of our three instructors), neighbor boy (Franz, what was his name?), Ricardo, Anita (neighbor girl), and me.

Michael took this photo. This is the house that my father grew up in. It started a lot smaller, now each family member builds and adds on their own piece. I have a photo of my grandmother on these same stairs. They haven't changed since she walked them.

Ricardo took this photo of Michael and I in the garden. I taught them how to take photos with my 35m.

Off school, finally out of the uniforms and these guys get down. Franz has great video of them dancing - its hilarious. :)

My dear Uncle Wilbert. I wish I knew him better. I've always wondered what goes on in his head.

My cousin Laura kept us alive the whole trip. She is so beautiful. She thinks she needed hair extensions. So funny, when she came to meet us at the airport I noticed her natural hair looked just like mine - just a much healthier version. We were going out to the club that night. Laura didn't want me to take a photo without her "dressed." Paleeze.

The rest of the trip is to come.....

Come Drive With Me

2010-02-22T19:26:00.002-06:00

Me and FranzDiego.com driving around after a meeting. It looks like this.

Kanser "Two For One" CD Release Party!
FRIDAY Feb 26, 2010 @ Triple Rock Social Club
$10/$8 in advance 18+

I'll be handing out condoms cause its important to me.

Safe Sex is Hot Sex

2010-01-27T17:44:00.008-06:00

I don't know why anyone would think they are bad, but in the last month I've had three friends tell me they don't use them!!! What the love?! Man, I'm so glad they told me so I can be reminded that we need still be promoting safe sex, but it is 2010 and "wrap it up" is more than a slogan. Even if you are fluid bonded in a committed relationship, there are still reasons to use condoms. Ladies, your guys dick might feel like that deal raw, but no birth control method is 100% effective (besides not having sex). If you are not ready to be a parent, that barrier can give you come inexpensive piece of mind. Of course there is the tried and true reason: infections, infections, infections of the viral and bacterial variety. You want none of them; nor do you want to give someone one.

Thank our lucky hump days for technology. Not all condoms feel bad anymore. Here are my suggestions:

Wait, first things first...
My dude, you do not need a huge condom. Fit is so important. Like any garb you adorn, suits, shoes, bras, vintage T-shirts, need to fit right. Condoms should be snug, not slide off easy. There will probably be some wetness coming from your partner and if your condom starts to slide off 10 strokes in, you need a smaller size.
Also, I'm not down with the lambs skin variety of "barriers." Man, those things only protecting from pregnancy not infections. Yea right, please get those porous things out my sexy space.

Here is a list of condoms organized by size.

Magnums - Oh how the boys love to pull out that gold wrapper with such glory. You know the routine. ~~After some fantastic head~~ he gets up, walks over to that top dresser drawer as you lay adoringly waiting. Finally shuffling to the back of the drawer, he finds it, his membership card into the jumbo, massive mighty dick club. Slowly he turns around, face proud, allowing the slight flickering gold to shine on your smiling face in the darkness. Your eyes drop between his legs to mentally prepare for the mammoth piece you are about to receive; and to your surprise, his dick is not mammoth at all but pretty normal looking.

Really, Magnums feel like your getting busy through cardboard. Not sexy, so if you don't need them, try something else. If in case you do need the mighty Mag, try their new "Thin" condoms. They give you the size you need but are comparative with other thin condoms on the market.

Crown - These may not be in the beautiful gold wrapper, but the silver will still give you that same flicker in the night when you bust them out the drawer. Crowns are really thin and still can be trusted for durability. They also don't taste or smell - boo on that latexy smell.

Beyond Seven Aloe - My fav! These are so great! Instead of silicone or water based lubricant they are coated with an aloe based lube - so moisturizing. They are actually laced with four times the average amount of lubricant. A little splashy when you roll them on, but totally worth it. The moisture creates a cushion between surfaces, making everything stroke smoothly.

Avanti BARE (non-laytex made of polyisoprene) - Even if you don't have a latex allergy, polyisoprene is great to try. It is super natural feeling in comparison to latex. They also don't smell. Really, these are amazing to try because they do feel so different.

TIPS

Use lube! Wet sex is safe sex. You don't want friction cause it can be uncomfortable for your partner. Friction can create tears or make a condom break - negative.

Silicone lube is awesome. Because it is larger than the molecules in skin is stays for a long time and can double as massage glide - very nice! However, uses silicone sparingly. A little goes a long way, and if it gets inside a condom that thing can slide right off.

I Saw Sherlock, Dub Style

2010-01-26T09:30:00.010-06:00

Sherlock Holmes Pub Fight Scene (click to watch in HD)

Let me save you $10 and time you could spend running at the gym. Oh, Avatar. Too many heads wasting their hard earned dollars on a story they've heard before wrapped up in a CGI bow. Meh, struggling white protagonist, moral dilemma, other racial community in suffering, woopty woo, testing of heroes integrity, hero conquers world, yadda yadda, resurrection, white guilt emancipated. I am certainly tired of this story and understand the message drilled into our (and our children's) heads.
Being the most expensive movie ever made also doesn't add to my interest of the film. This is the justification I get when racking friends about seeing it, "It was so beautiful! The colors were amazing." Well, so is the world, my friend. Are we so separated from our world that we can only be reminded of natural beauty through 3D glasses?? My goodness, step outside, take a vacation.

Movies are so hard for me to watch because I am just too critical and cynical about the film industry - especially when it is so expensive. It isn't really the money that bothers me, but the time. I could probably complain something serious and get my money back, but the time I spent in a seat for 1.5 hours watching Pineapple Express will never be returned to my life - what a waste.

My skepticism is now slightly lifted with the new release of Sherlock Holmes. Since I was eight I've wanted to be a super sleuthing spy (with ninja assassin, super human powers of course). When I learned Sherlock would be an action film, my interest and commitment to seeing it was certain. I read some Sherlock stories when I was younger and never ever pictured him as being a sarcastic, caring, sometimes foul, ripped, intelligent, crime fighting gentleman.

I loved basically everything about this movie. First, the storyline keeps you interested. The whole time I was trying to guess what would be happening - very engaging. From the beginning the camera shots draw you in. The score creates an amazing visual and adds comedic elements on it own with a banjo, out of tune violin, old stand up piano, and Romanian orchestra - beautiful. Hans Zimmer (also wrote the score to The Dark Knight) is nominated for Best Original Score from the Critics Choice Award. Music is so important for me when I watch movies because I pay so much attention to music outside of movies. When the score doesn't make sense, it just distracts me and I tune out. What Zimmer created stands on its own.

The wardrobe! OH how beautiful the perfectly tailored suits and character accuracy. Every person, main characters, random towns folk, children, bakers, secret society members, every costume made sense. It is obvious that Jenny Beavan cared about the whole picture. I'm not the biggest fan of women's clothing in the Victorian era, but the film was accurate and done with supreme detail.

This is the first time I have ever wanted to see a movie in the theater twice. I almost felt I should save my ticket stub to remember the monumental occasion that I would be double-upping on the purchase and time of a box-office film. My date didn't seem too impressed, but I understood what Sherlock meant for me. Thanks, Guy Ritche, and the rest of the crew for giving me a glimpse into the world of two-sitting movie goers. I think I did it right, didn't ruin the lines for first timers and was still surprised when I was supposed to be. Not sure if this will be a repeated event, me seeing movies dub-style, but perhaps there will be a sequel.

Wake up, Alicia!!

2010-01-14T11:20:00.002-06:00

Some new joints have come into my morning via my memory or via people around me. Either way, I need to get outta bed!

Little Dragon - Constant Surprises

Mr Vegas + Jovi Rockwell - You're Gonna Need Me

Harry Belafonte - Jump In The Line

Strange Fruit Project ft Erykah Badu - Get Live

The Knux - Fruits ft Malbec

Wont get punched on Boxing Day aka Umoja

2009-12-26T11:14:00.003-06:00

Happy Boxing Day to you and the rest of the island population of the world! Last night my cousins and I got the early celebration in at the VIP room.

There are a couple thoughts about Boxing Day and how it manifested as a largely celebrated holiday in the Caribbean.

After churches and community houses collected donations on Christmas Day, the following day was when the money and gifts went out to those who needed it. The "boxes" of money got allocated to the community.
Servants/slaves who had to work Christmas Day were given the day after Christmas off to spend with their families to have (the masters leftover) food and celebrate with each other.
The day after Christmas is when you box up all your old Christmas decorations and bring out your new clothes and presents to show off.

After talking with my uncles yesterday, they felt most connected to the later. They used the day after Christmas to show off their new presents; to floss and see what their friends got. Kids in their neighborhood would go out into the street and dance, drink, and eat all the left over food from the previous day. I was dying looking at photos of them when they were my age. My Uncle Donnie wore these platform shoes and still felt he was doin' it real big.
I guess now Boxing Day is even bigger in the largely populated areas in the Caribbean. More partying, more dancing, more eating. It's like a second Christmas without the religious overtone.

I see the connection between Boxing Day to the first day of Kwanzaa. Umoja, unity, a time to come together as a community to celebrate unity in the family, neighbors and our race. Boxing Day isn't saturated with messages about religion, but is focused on having peace, fun, laughter with your people. Celebrating ourselves.

How to celebrate Boxing Day in MN:

Put that Christmas tree away. Box it up listening/dancing to either: Radio Do Canibal or Harry Belafonte
Jump in The Line
Invite friends over to help you finish off that rum cake and chicken - if there is some left. My auntie Cooks brown stewed chicken never had a chance to see another day when I got there. Oh my gaaa.
Go out dancing and see the beauty in people that look like you. Brown folks forget sometimes how beautiful we are. It can be hard when all we see are white heroes (tell em Rodrigo), models, businesses. We are queens and kings. Today focus on that when you go out. Do something good for your community sister, community brother.

So my guy is throwing another party at The Loft downtown tonight in celebration of Boxing Day. I know I'm trying to hit Barrio in St. Paul for Mavin MC and Salvador Sahaj birthday celebration, then it's downtown MPLS for me and my family.

Stopped by Baby Gracious' studio

2009-12-18T00:50:00.003-06:00

New Big Zach aka Baby Gracious should make your beats too.

Baby Gracious ensures Big Zach that all files are saved.

Work Yo Ass Out! aka I haven't been to the gym in MONTHS aka Sweat There Mix #1

2009-12-18T00:21:00.006-06:00

First it was just out of scheduling, then the laziness set in. After that, a terrible pinched nerve kept me away. It has been months since I've felt the soft running track around the basketball court at the YWCA. Embarrassing. I remember a time when I couldn't survive without running every other day - I craved it. My legs would feel restless. The borderline ADHD would snap in me and I'd just need to take off.
Those days are long gone and away, but I am set and determined to bring them back...ahem, uh, yea, for sure this time. I do remember a few blogs back my excitement to return back to my old ways. However, I am certain it is way past time and waist size. If I don't go back now I'll have to start buying new cloths and money is tight, my friend. Spandex and wrap dresses will stretch my time (as well as other things) only so far.

I went back this evening after work! A very smart decision after the lack of micronutrients I've been getting. I thought ahead of myself as I dressed for work this morning. I'm glad I have wardrobe flexibility at both of my jobs. I put on my Sporty Spice uniform aka matching gym clothes and head to work. Already knowing my hate of de-robing to even go to the bathroom during the winter, I could sense I wouldn't want to change at the gym to workout. Before I even got to the gym, my outfit met me halfway. Look, I need all the strategies I can get.

Thank my dusty running shoes for iPod playlists:
Sweat There Mix #1
1. Pussy Whipp - Nina B
2. Breath of Fresh - The Dynospectrum
3. Transformer - Gnarles Barkley
I listened to the album version, but this Abby Road live version is absolutely beautiful.

4. This Is It - I Self Devine
5. Starstruck - Santogold
6. (Oh No) What You Got - Justin Timberlake (yea, you read it right)
7. Glock Nines - Beanie Sigel & Jay Z (Ratatat Remix)
8. 6 Underground - Sneaker Pimps
So great for stretching slowly, let your muscles brreeeaaatheee....

--

Don't buy me Christmas Presents

2009-12-17T15:38:00.003-06:00

I want all sorts of things.

I want new shoes, this mad cute $150 sweater I saw at Lava Lounge the other day, my hair cut and colored, a few more trips to the chiropractor and a stone massage. I also don't want anyone to spend money on me - nobody has it.
I love homemade gifts! They do take time to make, but have more character and heart of course. This year I am working a few homemade surprises. For my family, neck pillows, cause after this back injury I am totally committed to preventative back care. I'm hooking up some cookies and raw macaroons for friends.

Now, I need:

Yes, you would totally change my life if you decided to oblige me with either of these generous gifts. I would gladly sticker your name to them at your wish.

I'm off to work...

Sweet Christmas Tale

2009-12-09T22:27:00.004-06:00

I decided to ease up on my social/political analysis of the media and watch this new Christmas story Disney put together for Hulu.com. It is a sweet tale. Yes, it's about Christmas. There are many critiques I have about the holiday season; not all religions, races, and economic situations are represented in the seasons tales. If they are it's mad stereotypical...wup, here I go again. See? I can't even let go without starting a socio/political rant.

The story is about the work elves to to "prep" Santa's arrival to each home. Checking to make sure the tree is at the correct height for the specific gift, take the temperature of milk left out for the man in red, and that no creatures are stirring - not even a mouse. Cute, right?

Anyways, this is a sweet short film. Worth sitting down for 20 min. I laughed out loud in two places - wanna guess where?

Prep & Landing

I Got Beef With Andrew Zimmern aka Come On, Travel Network

2009-11-23T16:26:00.004-06:00

If you know me, even a little, you should know that I love the world and food. They are often central in the way I plan my day. What am I going to eat? How much trash or pollution am I putting into the planet in regards to my choices (of food or otherwise)? Can I pronounce every ingredient in the meal I'm eating? Am I appreciating the hands that have prepared my food and where it's from? It's all considered for sure every time I sit down to eat. Take this appreciation for the world, add a twist of pretentious palate and love for visual appeal and you have my appetite. I love to eat. As many seemingly restrictive questions people close to me have made fun of (coining me the nickname "Mother Nature" from my students), I'm always ready to check out a new restaurant, or one of my regular eateries.

So if the rare occasion pops up that I get to sit down, relax and choose to watch TV, the first channels I'll turn to are the Food Network (feeding my wet dream of someday having my own popular cooking show) or the Travel Network - specifically the shows No Reservations with chef/writer Anthony Bordain or Bizarre Foods with chef/writer Andrew Zimmern. Anthony Bordain, that's my guy! He's pompous, witty, appreciative, bougie, an asshole, crass, smart, down to earth all at the same time. His show No Reservations follows Bordain around the world to explore culture and, of course, amazing food; ranging from the most (elitist recognized) prestigious world-renowned restaurants to the homes of local grandmothers living off the beaten path. Great show, I totally co-sign.

My problems is with Bizarre Foods, featuring ignorant, culturally insensitive, offensive, jack-ass host, who happens to be from MN, Andrew Zimmern. Man this dude is terrible. He represents all that is white privileged male conquering what he feels he deserves to know about the world he owns. Every show he travels to exotic locations to magnify communities of people through his simple lens to exploit their "bizarre" ways of living and eating.
Yesterday I sat down to watch the show (knowingly of the frustration I'd get by watching it) and, oh lucky me, a marathon. The shows I watched Zimmern traveled to the Kalihari Desert and to South Sulawesi.

First he's loud and inconsiderate of others. He comes in with his camera crew, amazing equipment and impedes on peoples lives. He speaks English to everyone, everywhere; there is little to no attempt to open himself up to another language - can't be vulnerable on camera I suppose, Zimmern? He demands attention, not allowing anyone to challenge any type of power over what he needs to prove.
While visiting a small community of hunter-gatherers in the Kalihari Desert they take him out on a hunting trip. One of the men in the tribe show him their poisoned arrows and archery technique. Zimmern's narrated overdubs explain that "it has taken over 1000 years to perfect these techniques." He asks to have a try at it, lifts up his bow-and-arrow, aims to the target and lets go, only to perfectly pierce the target. Zimmern lifts his hands in confirmation of his greatness and thanks his summer camp archery instructor -- privileged bastard. Of course a Black Mamba shows up in a tree threatening the village, one villager aims a slingshot up the tree and hits the snake square in the head from 30ft away -- truly amazing. Why does Andrew Zimmern feel he needs to prove his archery skills to the world? Not sure, insecurity perhaps. On this same trip hunters show the BF crew how they make string out of this fibrous grass. It is so incredible how resourceful the creation of the string. Later, they set a trap to catch a bird (that Zimmern also felt he had to master). The next day a bird is trapped. Andrew congratulates the team of hunters, hands them a knife and asks if someone wants to have the honors of cutting it down. What?! Cut the good rope that is still quite useful? How frivolous!? They kindly decline is offer and loosen the tie around the bird to take it down. How embarrassing that he is from here. At the very least he verbally recognizes his almost sinful (and certainly Western wasteful) suggestion with some stuttering "sorry."

Here is a clip from his trip to the Philippines

It is so rude for this privileged dude to march his round, gluttonous body into communities he so obviously is not connected to expecting for people to share what they work for. Especially places without the same access to what he has and represents. I think it is hilarious that he is the "international spokesman for Procter and Gamble's Pepto-Bismol brand" (from his website). Figures, all the unnecessary food he stuffs himself with for the entertainment and exploitation of others.

All of this and he lives here! In MN! My girlfriend caught his MN episode last night and said that he talked all about how Scandinavian MN is. Yes, that is true, but MN is by no means founded on that. Perhaps the hate and violence that was inflicted on Natives who's land this is.

Okay, I know many of us are guilty of eating more than we needed to at one point of our lives. I mean come on, tomorrow is Thanksgiving. One of the few days were getting the "itis" is a membership card to some VIP clean plate club. However, Andrew adds a culturally insensitive kicker to his search around to world. I don't necessarrily blame him as an individual for his unschooled mouth. I believe that he really doesn't mean to be such an ignoramous. However, my advise is simple for the next time you go out to tape, Andrew (and I mean this from the most genuine place in my heart).

1. When you feel words naturally filling into the side of your cheeks, don't let them escape your mouth. Keep your mouth closed and let others do the sharing -- stop all the assumptions and speaking for others.
2. Get a great interpreter, speaking Engligh to non-English speakers is such a rude and hurtful thing to watch!!!
3. Lose some weight, yo. The YWCA has great trainers, I'm sure you can afford it - I've seen your credentials. I need to go too, I'm getting way off track. Maybe we can have a competition, I know you're into that.
4. The sarcasm is condescending and scarring to my heart. Stop it, seriously. The funny faces you make are so disappointing.

5. Really learn from the experiences you had and the Kalahari Desert. At the end, one of the villagers told you to respect others. It is as simple and as deep as that, respect; not something we are taught to truly internalize and know how to do outside of the US, outside of your white male privilege. This is a struggle you will have to be progressive about challenging yourself on. Once you know how to do this thoroughly in your heart, I feel the world will look so much different to you. If you need some assistance with this, I'm a social justice trainer. Find me on twitter.com/aliciaisbrown.

PHOTOS: Weekend 11-19-09

2009-11-23T15:25:00.007-06:00

Tights on Tuesday

2009-10-27T09:28:00.006-06:00

It's fall, getting cold. I don't fight it. Some folks in MN wont recognize the temperature change and rock shorts all winter or little dresses to the club. Not me! After getting badly frost bitten on a snowboarding trip in highschool I learned to cover up. I wear leg warmers on my arms and layer, layer, layer everything under my sleeping-bagesque coat.

This doesn't mean I don't do it in style! Here are some tights I'm trying to get in order to survive this winter:

Pink thigh-high Cubans from SockDreams.com

Follow-me Twitt Tights by Tattoo Socks on Etsy

Vertical Jagged Striped Tights at We Love Colors.com (in 50 colors)

Indigo Peacock Feather Tights on ModCloth.com

Super Ruched by Tobbisocks (Japan) for SockDreams.com
Last year Chanel
BONUS: Stella McCartney Perforated Thigh-high boots

Witches, Wizzards & TUSSizzurp!

2009-10-22T12:39:00.006-05:00

I'm afraid of the dark. I believe in ghosts and their ability to take over my body and torture me. When I walk to my car after work I look behind me for zombies and vampires. With that said, Halloween is an extremely unfortunate affair during the year for me.

However, I've decided this year to embrace my 26 year-old body and brave this candy-filled-undead-plagued celebration. I'm not quite ready to visit the Soap Factories Haunted Basement (I mean, shit, you have to sign a waiver to get in that thing - I'm cool on that), but I am looking forward to Witches, Wizzards & TUSSizzurp at the Bedlum this Saturday!

So for you hardcore Halloween freaks, ghouls, and sorcerers, come celebrate early. Everything I've ever been to by TUSS has been thorough. With eight different DJs and special guests I'm expecting maniacally-unbalanced performances and supernatural spinning to shake my scarred body to - this party is bout to crack!

Check for their write-up on Facebook:

For all those true halloween lovers that like to get it in for an entire week(sleeping in your costume each night and wearing it to work or school.)savoring each moment you have to completely wild out and not get called out cause noone knows who you are in your bomb ass costume! Come start off the week with the suspects dancing your asses off to some of the best DJs Mpls have to offer spinning Rap, R&B, Reggae, Soul, Funk, Rock ,Pop,etc... we'll be having live gruesome paintings by the Raw Neigborhood Boys, a Photo Booth, a special elixer Purple Drank, a best costume contest, special surprise guests and more!

Wanna dress up with me? What should we be? Whatever it is better incorporate sneakers. We bout to dance, call me later.

Smitten Kitten Yard Sale - Shh, sneak preview... :)

2009-10-21T20:25:00.003-05:00

Just found out that local feminist sex shop, The Smitten Kitten, is having a "mind-blowing yard sale" this Saturday! Nooo, not toys this time, but a traditional yard sale like this summer around your neighborhood.

Saturday October 24th
ALL DAY
3010 Lyndale Ave.
Southside MPLS

The store has accumulated tons of stuff in the six years they've been at their current location and is ready to clean it out. I got a sneak peek at what they are selling and wanted to share the secret with you.

You and I will be fighting over:
Unique lamps and lights
Chairs
All sorts of baskets of various sizes
Carmen Electra stripper pole
yarn
Awesome ART!
microphone
floppy disks
PCI adapter (I don't know what that is)
books and paper
glass jars
thread
pretty nice speakers
I think a boombox
a big ass rug
sweet and corny decorations for various holiday events

Those are just the items that I could see on the top of the pile!! Looks like it is going to be a pretty thorough sale. Come to fill all your random needs.

Lets get ripped aka I need to workout

2009-10-15T11:07:00.005-05:00

Like 47 million other folks who live in the U.S. I don't have insurance. My health care gig was up the moment my Afro-Studies degree came in the mail.

I don't like Western methods of medicating its people anyway; wait to get sick, then heal. I don't want to get sick, or hurt, so I invest in preventative methods of healing. It makes more sense. Why not be healthy all the time (or at least strive to be)? Our society doesn't make this easy. I work two official jobs, volunteer, sing, take video production classes, listen to live music, laugh with girlfriends, and a 50 other random events during the week. My life gets busy and in order to keep up my energy without getting sluggish I make sure to get balanced vitamins and a healthy diet.

Lately though I have been slacking on my workouts. Seriously, I haven't consistently worked out for like 3 months! This is so hard to admit to you (and myself). It is time for a change! I've been taking yoga on Fridays with one of my sisters, but it hasn't really made a huge different for my energy level. Starting today, I'm back on it.

Reasons I love working out:

I get to eat more! I love food. Love cooking and love eating! When I workout a lot I'm hungry all the time and have to take in more calories. It's great.
My body doesn't need as much time to recover from the day so I sleep less. Lately I've been needing a full 8 hours of sleep (and some nights even more). I like to sleep, but I have do many things that I want to get done.
My energy and creative levels increase. Something that really gets me through these winter months.
I have barely any iron in my blood, yo. I'm freezing all the time. My fingers turn blue from walking one block. Working out makes my blood flow more efficiently - imperative for surviving the cold.

Most of the success I've had at the gym are because of my wonderful trainer Yolanda and my iPod. They both got me to love running. I'm working on re-gaining this love lost today. I'm making mixes timed out for my workouts. Here is todays workout list, perfect for a jog:

Chairman Mao - Bambu
Glock Nines (Ratatat mix) - Beanie Sigel & Jay Z
RePPiN for U - Black Milk ft. AB
Stoopid - Blu ft. Sene
Fuck Yeah - Babmu
Gone - Chantz Erolin
ShoYoAss - The Coup

= 30.6 minutes

Happy sweating!

--

Chairmen Mao - Bambu

Glock Nines - Beanie Sigel & Jay Z

Stoopid - Blu ft. Sene

Zombies and African dance fit together?

2009-10-08T10:25:00.007-05:00

Last weekend something happened with my moon, cause I was sick, tired, and cranky. Now I'm well rested in time for THIS WEEKEND!! Time to enjoy the last visions of our streets without snow.

I created an itinerary for you, no sweat.

First, I'm SO pumped (and a likkle scared) about Friday. Improv comedy theater, The Brave New Workshop is offering up a Halloween tradition, Creature Feature. It is a fully-improvised, live-on-stage, comedic monster "movie."

Damian, Tim, Troy from Survivors of the Undead Plague

What is your plan of action if zombies start taking over South MPLS? Would you lock yourself in an attic and hope you don't get hungry? Would you tranfer the skills you learned from Iron Chef to zombie fighting? Either way, the Survivors of the Undead Plague have great experience in undead battles and teaching you how to prevail in the war against zombies.
I'm really pumped about this. I know Damian from one of my many part-time jobs and he is too hilarious. He sits and listens to English sci-fi novels on tape over his breaks and has a vocabulary that would put any professor or UrbanDictionary mug to shame. Although I'm anticipating my paranoid night walks expecting zombies where I parked my car, I'm off to see the show on Friday. I'll be paying close attention to the skills I'll need to keep our streets safe from the undead.

Creature Feature @ The Brave New Workshop
Survivors of the Undead Plague (check their website to win free tickets!!)
2605 Hennipen Avenue South
Fridays in October at 10:30pm
$10

I've been waiting for this show for weeks! The Hayor Bibimma Dance Company is presenting their Anyedo Hwendo (Rainbow Spirit) show THIS WEEKEND ONLY!! Choreographed by Frances Kofi, this high-energy show features dancing, singing, and live drumming all honoring African tradition.
I love drumming (partly cause I can't do it), the sounds that come out of drums are inspiring to me.

"Hayor Bibimma's instruments are traditional. Specific instruments serve specific purpose. Timing and rhythm are created using rattles and bells. Percussion is supplied by drums. Each drum has a name, a voice, a function and history. The tones and phrases spoken by the individual instruments are interwoven to create a dense and dynamic texture of sound. While the support instruments provide the contours, the master drummer provides the outline and cues of change and transformation. It is he who "talks" in shrouded phrases. The relationship of all parts speaking together creates an acoustic mosaic."
- Hayor Bibimma

I am blessed to know two beautiful sisters in the collective, one of them being my girl Kristy. I have the privilege of being around her spirit - amazing woman. She is a powerful community activist/organizer and teacher - I'm learning from her all the time. Kristy looks for the good in people and is honest to those around her. A quality rare in MN where "friends" don't tell each other what needs to be heard. You gotta see this lady on the dance floor! Her love for music and the present moment are transferred to movement.
I am anticipating a powerful experience at the Capri Theater this weekend with Hayor Bibimma. It will certainly be a rare performance not to miss!

Hayor Bibimma presents:
Anyedo Hwendo (Rainbow Spirit)
at the Capri Theater
2210 Oliver Avenue North MPLS
10/9 7:30pm
10/10 1:30 & 7:30pm
10/11 3:30pm
$10 advance/ $12 door

I'll see you this weekend.

How is your H-game?

2009-09-25T12:23:00.008-05:00

Local feminist sex shop, The Smitten Kitten, is having a series of sex ed classes to sweeten up and strengthen your skills to pleasure your partner - and yourself. Lets face it, making your partner happy should make you happy; hopefully what you know will then transfer from giving to receiving the goods as well if that is what you are looking for.

I took the Joystick Secrets class last night - it was a blast. The store brought in author/sex educator Midori in to teach a series of classes this weekend. She has traveled all over the world bringing the fun back into sex with her sessions. The classes are very down-to-earth, funny, informative, and appropriately sexy.

Class started with and introduction to why we were all taking the class. Really, it just felt like she was co-signing to make us feel more comfortable and empowered by taking the the workshop; offering "gold-stars" to folks who admitted to using cock rings or previously tried certain joystick-pleasing techniques. Then we named off all the words/phrases for "his bits:" dick, cock, shaft, member, etc. The worst was one she heard from London, the yogurt canon (I can't believe I just went there, but blazay bla, it is what it is).
Each participant had bags equipped with condoms, suckers, and some phallic veggie: cucumber, zucchini, or yellow squash. Then class really began....

So today is her rope bondage class. I wont be making that cause I'm trying to check out the Usual Suspects at the Blue Nile tonight.

There is one class left that still has a few openings, surprisingly - How To Eat a Peach: Pleasuring Her is on Saturday night from 7-9pm at The Smitten Kitten. With Midori's energy and professionalism I am expecting a great class. The Joystick Secrets class really filled up and had folks of all different levels of experience. It is certainly a safe space to ask questions you might not feel comfortable asking one of your girlfriends.

One thing I learned from Midori that I'll share with you:
Worried about how your body tastes? Are you affected by flavors of your partner? What you eat has so much to do with your body flavors.

Things to stay away from:
Asparagus
Caffeine
Vitamin B
Tourine
Onions
Garlic
Energy drinks, no, no, no.

How to make your body taste good:
Water, water, water all day.
Sweet and watery fruit: cherries, strawberries, pineapple

Tasty Body Cocktail:
2c fresh pineapple
1c celery juice
1c water

Word on the street is that vegans, vegetarians and raw foodists taste the best because they are lowering toxin intakes in their body as well as maintaining hydration from all the produce. Can't argue with that logic. You're on the way to the co-op now, aren't you?

Here is a video interview I found featuring Midori about her traveling workshops:

Interested in more from Midori? Find her on Twitter @planetmidori. She also has a Yahoo Q&A Group where you can anonymously ask questions from home.

Let's Get Sleepy

2009-09-22T23:01:00.004-05:00

Every night, depending on the moon and my mood, I either fall asleep to kung fu or music. Yesterday I left my iPod at the Greg Grease dungeon and man did I miss it!

So now I have her back and wanted to share my nighttime mix - some videos, some listed. I have to admit, I am not the biggest R&B fan (after 1997). Really when Lauryn Hill packed her guitar away, I decided to remain the rap/reggae/jazz/indie lady that I am. It just got too corny and predictable. However, I can't deny the poppy lyrics and smooth melodies that appeal so dearly to my tired ears. And the dancing! Oh the wondrous routines in shiny suits and fist pumping at the camera. The 90's lover in me just wont let go, so it is at night that I allow myself to indulge.

If you are checking this during the day, you might want to come back when night falls - it will all make more sense.

We're getting sleeeepy....

Outkast - Spottieottiedopalicious
Janet Jackson - That's The Way Love Goes
Floetry - Say Yes
Ginuwine - On My Way
D'Angelo - One Mo'Gin
Lauryn Hill ft D'Angelo - Nothing Even Matters
Lauryn Hill - Sweetest Thing

Jon B - They Don't Know
Jagged Edge - Promise
Something For The People - My Love is the Shhhh

Boyz II Men - On Bended Knee
Shai - If I Ever Fall In Love
Guy - Let's Chill
Joe - All The Things
Sade - By Your Side

Donell Jones - Shorty Got Her Eyes On Me
KP & Envy - Shorty Swing My Way (Remix)
Maxwell - Till The Cops Come Knocking
Nicole Wray - Make It Hot

Monifah - I Can Tell
Maxwell - Whenever Wherever Whatever
R Kelly - In The Kitchen (lol - I have the instrumental version and just heard the lyrics. That is just distracting)
Drake ft Omarion - Bria's Interlude (Omarion too young to be singing this stuff, I just block him out and picture the boy behind the Seward cheese counter - hardy har)

Drake ft Llyod - A Night Off
Janet Jackson - Anytime, Anyplace

Goodnight...

YooouuuTuuube.com

2009-09-22T11:14:00.003-05:00

Tofu up your YouTube videos with:
www.yooouuutuuube.com

I learned about from Jay Electronica's tweet.

You enter your favorite YouTube URL and the site will create a panned out display of your video. Confused about what I'm trying to explain (cause I'm hungry and just want to eat this spring roll)?
Click here:
Jackie Mittoo - Free Soul on YooouuuTuuube.com

Kinda nice cause the video will just repeat whatever you put in. If you are working on writing raps, songs, putting your baby to sleep, hook up your favorite URL and let it ride.

Naruto: Deadlock! Sannin Showdown

2009-09-14T15:17:00.004-05:00

Sometimes I wish I could stop watching this show; be free from its entertaining and addictive grasp on my life. However, it's keeping me young and teaching me Japanese.

This is an episode from season 2 of Naruto. There is also Naruto Shippuden that follows all of the characters as they get older - it is crraazzzy. Very creative and dark. Different from Naruto, which is equally creative and suspensful, but has a humerous component.

Happy New Year!

2009-08-26T22:48:00.002-05:00

This last weekend I rang in 26. I can't be any happier to say goodbye to year 25, the most challenging, painful, emotional, dramatic year of my life.

I really don't like celebrating my birthday. I'd love to celebrate yours, but mine just never seems to work out the way I envision. Really, I want to see people that I love laughing, smiling, and dancing super hard on my birthday. I should plan something to make that happen, but in the past it has always fallen through. Man, one year I had a girlfriend cry the whole night. Another year very few folks showed cause others "knew" I was out having a good time. Another year some jerk I was dating made it all about him - so now I do it low key.

This year I woke up at my birth time for some meditation, popped in the Smitten Kitten dance mix and danced my way to yoga. It was AWESOME! I went into yoga already deciding to sweat - it worked, baby. I've never worked so hard in class and my ass had some good ol' shape all day. Go check out Geri at the YWCA Midtown, yo.

After class my mother hooked up some gluten-free French toast, veggie eggs, and berries. My brother, mother and I sat and listened to music and watched the backyard brighten up through the rainy morning.

I worked. Sat in the sun, listened to Imogen Heap.

Then my girl Sarah and Rachel hooked up the curry! I used to skip class for this biz - it's that thorough.
I drank wine. I ate Julie's local pear and chocolate cupcakes. I drank wine. I laughed with ladies. I took some Flip video that I still don't know how to edit. My 8-year-old girlfriend Asia put some effort in teaching me how to skateboard. I put the wine away after that. I got a beautiful purse from Kenya! I finished the night with some trashy-tv and found myself rooting for the underdog on Dating In The Dark.

What year 25 taught me:
People are capable of everything and anything - good or bad. I gotta prepare myself for the worst and hope for the best.
The power and strength it takes to show your emotions; the weakness that holding them in shows.
I love singing.
Completely raw diet is not for my body, but 80% raw is.
That I am a good partner and worth it.
How to be honest with myself and embrace my needs.
Soy gives me gas, I'm through with it.
I fill my life with work and extra-curriculars to distract myself from pain.
I love teaching.
Lube with glycerin in it can make a yeast infection.
I have a handful of women around me that truly have my back, forgive me, challenge me, and understand where I'm coming from (don't cross them - we'll have words).
I'm going to be a great mother someday.
My family is closer than we've ever been before.
I like running and can do 120 pushups.
Being a social justice trainer and a sex educator are great fits for me.
I don't remember what being in love is like, but I do still know the pain.
The power of women.
I make crazy delicious salad dressing.
I've never been so surprised and let down by people before year 25.
Embroidery and cross-stitching will be in my life forever.
I wrote two songs I'm really proud of.

I am very happy to be rid of year 25 and the lessons I've learned. As vague as this is, and important for myself to document, I'm looking forward to the potential for year 26. My guy Big Zach told me year 25 was pretty hard for him too; year 26 was better, but not great either. I'll take that though.

I love you for seeing me.
Love,
Alicia