Author Archives: Dwight Brooks

Baby Phat Girlz Back to School Hoodies: The Newest Collection

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Baby Phat introduces the latest collection of warm and cozy hoodies just in time for fall. The Baby Phat Girlz Hoodie Collection features soft fleece, fashionable designs and sparkling detail perfect for that back to school look. Here are a few of the latest girls hoodie from the Baby Phat Girlz Hoodie Collection.

The Newest Collection of Baby Phat Girlz Back to School Hoodies: Girlz Terry Hoodie with Taping

Keep her warm and looking fabulous in the Baby Phat Terry Hoodie with Taping. This cute hoodie for girls has a flattering faux flap at chest pocket, a signature Baby Phat front logo at pocket, zip front closure, sequin signature Baby Phat print, embellished double snap, logo accents at back and contrast taped trim. The Baby Phat Terry Hoodie with Taping is made of 70% cotton, 26% polyester, 4% spandex and is available in girls sizes (small-extra large). This cozy hoodie is offered in the color light charcoal.

The Newest Collection of Baby Phat Girlz Back to School Hoodies: Girlz Ruffle Trim Pullover

Add a little charm to your little one's back to school wardrobe with the Baby Phat Ruffle Trim Pullover. This cute and pretty girls pullover has a short sleeve design with a ribbed v neckline that looks good layered or worn alone with jeans. The Baby Phat Ruffle Trim Pullover includes a bubble sleeve pattern, ribbed cuffs, a signature logo patch, tiered ruffles at bottom, printed Baby Phat signature logo with sequins, plaid design at hood and bottom. This eye-catching pullover is made of 95% cotton, 5% spandex and is available in girls' sizes (small-extra large). The Baby Phat Ruffle Trim Pullover is offered in the color heather grey.

The Newest Collection of Baby Phat Girlz Back to School Hoodies: Girlz Terry Hoodie with Emblem and Stones

Complement her back to school wardrobe with the Baby Phat Terry Hoodie with Emblem and Stones. This stylish Baby Phat original has a pretty lurex logo stitch design, kangaroo style pocket, ribbed bottom trim at hem, zipper front with kitty logo, long sleeve design with ribbed cuffs, and signature Baby Phat stitched kitty logo with sequin details. The Baby Phat Terry Hoodie with Emblem is made of 70% cotton, 26% polyester, 4% spandex and is available in girls sizes (small-extra large). This warm hoodie is offered in the colors black and au lait.

The Newest Collection of Baby Phat Girlz Back to School Hoodies: Printed Plaid Fleece Hoodie

She can bring her back to school wardrobe to the next level in the Baby Phat Printed Plaid Fleece Hoodie. This luxurious girls hoodie has a soft fleece material with an allover plaid pattern that will keep her warm and looking ultra cute. This pretty fleece hoodie has a unique plaid design with zip front closure. The Baby Phat Printed Plaid Fleece Hoodie includes a lurex stitched signature kitty at chest, a kangaroo pocket design at front, a lurex-embroidered crest with sequin detail at back and a Baby Phat signature logo. This printed plaid hoodie is made of 80% cotton, 20% polyester and is available in girl sizes (small- extra large). The Baby Phat Printed Plaid Fleece Hoodie is offered in the color berry.

For more cozy hoodies from the Baby Phat Girlz Hoodie collection, visit Baby Phat online.

 

Brief Biography of NBA Legend Dave Bing and His Career

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Dave Bing was born on November 24, 1943 in Washington, D.C. After a very successful high school basketball career at Spingarn High School, Bing took his game to the college level at Syracuse University. Bing led the Syracuse to much success and set the school scoring record at 1,883 points.

As a senior in 1966, Bing averaged 28.4 points per game and was named an All-American. His number, 22, has been retired to the rafters for the Orangemen. With this success at the highest collegiate level, Bing took his game to the pros.

Dave Bing was selected by the Detroit Pistons with the second overall pick in the 1966 NBA Draft. Bing would play for the Pistons for nine seasons and become a star. In his rookie year, Bing averaged 20.0 points and 4.1 assists per game. He won the Rookie of the Year Award.

His best season for the Pistons would come in 1967-1968 when he averaged 27.1 points and 6.1 assists per game. It was during this season that he led the entire NBA in scoring. Bing never had much success in the NBA playoffs as he never made it past the second round.

Dave Bing was known for his wiry frame and silky-smooth play. He had very sound fundamentals but also extreme athleticism which allowed him to dominate defenders night in and night out.

In 1971, Dave Bing experienced a horrific eye injury, a detached retina, which almost ended his basketball career for good. He already had poor vision from an accident he experienced as a child.

In 1975, Bing was traded to the Washington Bullets where he would spend two seasons. His best season with the Bullets was the 1975-1976 season where he averaged 16.2 points and 6.0 assists per game. It was becoming clear, however, that Bing’s career was winding down.

In 1977 Bing was traded yet again to the Boston Celtics where he would finish out his career. He appeared for Boston in 80 games during the 1977-1978 season but only averaged 13.6 points per game.

Dave Bing is one of the most forgotten stars of the NBA. His relatively brief career may be what keeps him from being listed as one of the all-time greats. There is no denying, however, the level of skill that Bing put on display every night during his career. In 1996, Dave Bing was named as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history.

Museum of Science and Technology in Syracuse, New York

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Syracuse, New York is home to some of the most interesting “to do’s” in all of New York. Syracuse, New York may have the most things to do outside of New York City. If you want to make the most of your day then you need to head on up to MOST in Syracuse, New York. A day spent at the Museum of Science and Technology will open your eyes to the planet, the curiosity of science and what is inside your heart, literally.

The Museum of Science and Technology is a great place for children and adults to spend a day. The IMAX screen at MOST runs every day with amazing films. The current feature at the Museum of Science and Technology is Mystic India: A Journey of Inspiration. Mystic India visits India’s terrain and architecture while a young boy goes on a spiritual quest. Other movies at MOST are Ring of Fire about volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean and The Human Body which takes you under our collective skin to see the power of the heart. IMAX is a visually stunning experience that is sure to mesmerize even the most cynical adult.

The Museum of Science and Technology has amazing exhibits to walk through on your visit. The Life Sciences exhibit will take you on a walk through a larger than life model of the human heart. The Discovery Cave at the Museum of Science and Technology will take visitors through a realistic cave complete with waterfall, giant media globe and local geological science. The Science Playhouse at MOST is five full floors of fun with a sound tube, bridges and foam ball fountain with trajectory devices. The newest exhibition at MOST is Technotown which walks you through an audio-kinetic experience designed by George Rhoads and created by Bob McGuire that will make you feel as if you are in a pinball machine. The Telecommunications Lab at MOST will take visitors on a lesson about Morse code, computers and radio. Finally the Planetarium at the Museum of Science and Technology will turn day into night with educational experiences on the cosmos above.

The Museum of Science and Technology: MOST is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm Wednesday through Sunday with admission ranging from $2.00 to $11.00 for adult packages, $2.00 to $9.00 for children and seniors packages. IMAX movies at MOST will run until 9:00pm on Saturday evenings.

 

Turn Comic Books Into Fashion Accessories

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Supplies:
Beer bottle caps (not bent)
Comic strip or printed picture
White glue
Items such as pin backings, headbands, hat bands, and similar things (all optional)

A comic book pin might not become the jewel of the jewelry box but that doesn't mean that it won't be cute with some outfits. It's so much fun to turn old comic books, or newspaper comics, into exciting fashion accessories, even if they aren't real gold or diamonds. For a child, a comic book pin, headband, or necklace, is a nice accessory to wear with jeans and a tee, or a casual dress. And, when you find out just how many accessories you can make from one comic page, you'll suddenly own many fashion pieces, because you'll want to make one of each!

Save bottle caps and turn them into costume jewelry, clothing accessories, and more. The caps aren't the plastic type, found on water bottles. They're the metallic caps, found on beer bottles. The metal caps look great as pins, necklaces, and more. No matter what piece you're going to make, start by covering a cap – or more than one – with the chosen comic strip. The paper can be black and white, from years ago, or can be colorful and new.

Cut a circle from the comic; make it a good bit larger than the actual beer bottle cap. Glue the picture onto the lid; make sure it is positioned so that a main character, or a particular scene, is centered. Cut off the excess.

Drill a hole in the top of the cap to make a necklace or earring. Drill a hole on the two sides of the cap to make a bracelet, using several caps. Glue a pin backing on it to make a cute brooch. Attach the comic cap to a headband or to a hat band as a fun, decorative piece. The small circle of comics can become a curtain tie back, a key ring, an accent on a picture frame, an accent in a scrapbook, or even a zipper pull on a jacket. Glue a cap to a drawer pull, use a row of them to encircle a lampshade, or create your own designs with comic caps.

Clear tape is perfect for covering the comic book image so that it doesn't get scratched or otherwise marred. Wear the cap, put it on something else that you own – like a purse – or decorate with it. A comic book bottle cap can become many different things but why choose? Make one of each and you'll really be happy!

 

Planning a Wedding on a Budget: Cheap Chic Weddings

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Weddings can be expensive, but not everybody has a million dollars to spend on the wedding of their dreams. There are a few tips you can follow to have a fabulous wedding on a budget.

Budget Wedding Gowns

Consider renting a wedding gown to save money because many wedding shops offer this service. Try a consignment shop since many of these stores may have less expensive wedding gowns. Ask a friend if you can borrow a dress. Although the gown will most likely need a thorough cleaning and some alterations, you will undoubtedly save dough in the end. Instead of purchasing a designer gown, consider having a similar dress made, which will save some dollars.

Budget Wedding Rings/Bands

Choose a less expensive material such as gold or white gold rather than platinum bands. Although these are sturdy they can be much more expensive than gold alternatives. Men's ring offer many inexpensive and low maintenance options such as tungsten, tungsten carbide or titanium rather than gold. Consider purchasing a bridal set together rather than a separate band, which could put some cash back in your pocket in the end.

Wedding Favors

Try making your own wedding favors rather than purchasing already made ones. Offer your guests candy or jelly beans in your wedding colors which can be a nice touch. You can purchase inexpensive boxes that can be filled with candy and tied with inexpensive ribbon. You could also print the bride and groom names on a small address label and wrap it around miniature candy bars.

Inexpensive Bridal Bouquets

Making your own bouquet out of silk or artificial flowers can save considerable cash. Many stores offer silk flower options that can be close imitations of the real thing. You can also purchase real flowers in bulk from some retail chains such as Sams Club and Costco that sell them in bulk.

Food and Beverage

The bulk of the wedding cost can be from the reception food and beverage. Tips to save on the beverage cost is not having an open bar or offering lower grade alcohol or well liquor. You can save on food by offering less side dishes and only one entree. Most guests will not even notice that there was not more than one entree.

Cake

Check around to see if you have a friend or relative who is handy at making cakes which could save you a bundle in the end. Only have as much cake as what you need. Many people think they need five or 6 tier cakes, but it is unnecessary, although it looks elegant.

5 Hot Nathan Jenden Fashions for Fall

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Nathan Jenden started his own label in 2015 after working under Diane von Furstenberg. Born in London, England, Nathan introduces lots of black and white this fall 2020 season with minimal coloring. He takes advantage of the Japanese Gothic Lolita look in many of these fashions for women. Below are my top five picks from his fall 2020 ready to wear collection:

The first fashion by Nathan here is a two piece outfit in black with fishnet forming the sleeves and the chest. A vest-like top buttoned in the front has mini pleats on either side as they sit on the waistline over the black pants. The pants are stretch which mold to the shape of the legs. This is great for the woman who likes to wear the Gothic or Emo style. Try wearing this to a weekend party this fall season.

Ruffles and more fishnet appear in the second dress, paired with black stockings. The ruffles lay flat on either side right below the bustline and flare out slightly at the waist. This black satin looks very urban chic. Try wearing a large silver cross with this when you wear it to a nightclub this fall.

This third dress is made in the Gothic Lolita style made popular in Japan. The skirt looks like it's made of crepe paper and accordion folded around the model's waist. The black jacket, neck ribbon, and black stockings complete the look. This is great for young women who are in college and want to wear something cool to a sorority party.

Here is a combination knit top with a woven skirt in striking black, red, and white geometric lines. The knit top is long sleeved with a turtleneck collar. In place of black stockings, try red stockings. Add your favorite gold jewelry for the perfect accessory to this ensemble. Wear this to a charity event or a an informal dinner party.

Last on the list is a white dress with fringe at the bottom that is reminiscent of the 1920's style. The frilly tags that decorate the surface of the dress have a spongy look and feel to them. This dress is very pretty by itself so if you want to accessorize, use delicate, dainty jewelry to wear with it. This dress can be worn to a formal dinner party.

Nathan Jenden fashions can be purchased through Net a Porter and Shop Style.

 

The Diaper Bag: Baby’s Home Away from Home

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Trying to get out of the house with your new baby? It isn’t all that easy to just jump in the car and go like before. It can be overwhelming all the things the baby needs on every outing. One way to make a quicker exit is to have a fully stocked, ready-to-go diaper bag on hand at all times, rather than packing last minute. Here are some diaper bag essentials to ensure preparation for venturing out.

Of course no diaper bag would be a diaper bag without a stockpile of diapers. Make sure to always have several in the bag, and replace any used ones after returning home. In addition to the diapers, there must be wipes. Use a small, travel-sized wipes holder, refilling it often, and packing it full. Wipes are not only necessary for changing diapers, but convenient for cleaning sticky hands and faces. For the diaper change, make sure to have a changing pad on hand. You don’t want to be placing a messy baby directly on the backseat of the car, or worse, on the germy changing station in public restrooms. Many diaper bags comes with a folded vinyl pad, but if yours doesn’t, make sure to always have your own.

A diaper bag must-have is plastic bags. There must be somewhere to put those dirty diapers and wipes if a trash can is not readily available. Have two on hand at all times. One for dirty diapers, and one for dirty clothing that needs removed. Because plastic bags pose a suffocation hazard, make sure the child doesn’t have access to the bags.

Diaper leaks, spit ups, and major food messes can cause clothing to need removed. In this event you will need a change of clothing. Always keep a seasonally-appropriate, easy-to-put-on outfit in the diaper bag. One piece suits are easiest for quick changes. For infants, outfits with footies are a good option, so that you don’t need to worry about packing extra socks. Otherwise make sure to pack necessary socks.

If you’re faced with changing messy diapers away from a bathroom, you will need to be able to clean your hands. Always make sure to have a travel-sized hand sanitizer. But, use caution as the alcohol in hand sanitizer can be a poison hazard to children.

If your baby is formula-fed, it is convenient to have a travel container for powdered formula. These containers, hold several servings of formula in separate compartments, with a small spout for easy pouring. Another option now available with certain brands of infant formula, is the small, single-serving packet of formula. Have a few in the diaper bag at all times. Unlike the travel container, the packets will last longer in the diaper bag. It is recommended that powdered formula is used within a month of opening, so make sure to replace it as needed. In addition to the formula powder, you will need water and bottles. Always have a clean baby bottle and purified water in the diaper bag. Nursery Water now sells fluoridated purified water in small 9.4 oz. bottles, more convenient for packing than larger adult-sized bottled water.

For older babies keep a snack-sized container with cheerios on hand. The small bottles of Nursery Water are great for thirsty toddlers. Carry an empty sippy cup in the diaper bag at all times into which you can pour the water.

When feeding baby out, it is important to have at least one bib on hand, as well as a burp cloth.

Keep a small toiletry kit always stocked in the diaper bag. This should include Infants’ Tylenol or Motrin, especially for those visits to the pediatrician when immunizations need updated. Fever and aches can be reduced with a quick dose. Also make sure to pack gas medicine, like Infants’ Mylicon, nail clippers, a hairbrush or comb, travel-sized medicated diaper cream, sunscreen, and travel-sized lotion and powder, Disposable washcloths, containing tear-free baby wash, made by Huggies, are a good idea to have on hand.

I’m sure mothers won’t be likely to forget, but, if your baby takes a pacifier, have at least one in the bag. Nam makes pacifiers that come in their own plastic cover, great for clean transporting.

Of course, don’t forget to have a toy for the baby. The most convenient toys are small ones that can clip onto the stroller or car seat, and can’t get tossed onto the ground.

Having these essentials packed will likely cover most out-of-the-house situations, but all babies have different needs, and you may need to modify your diaper bag. If the diaper bag is stocked and ready to grab, leaving will be so much easier. And once you’re out, you can relax knowing you have a small home-away-from-home for your baby.

 

When to Send Wedding Invitations: Invitation Etiquette, Schedule and Timing for Wedding Invites

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Planning a wedding is all about small steps taken in the right order and at the right time. Understanding the etiquette and timing rules for wedding invitations might seem daunting at first, but there are simple guidelines that ensure invitations are ready to be mailed in enough time to allow guests to attend.

When to Send Wedding Invitations Out

The first and most important question in the minds of most brides and grooms is when to send the wedding invitations. The general guideline for when to send wedding invitations is about 6 weeks before the wedding, but some people advise 6 to 8 weeks, while others say that giving guests 4 weeks before the wedding is all that's necessary.

What's most important here is to ensure that your guests will have time to receive the invitation and return RSVP cards in time to inform the caterer and other wedding staff about final numbers.

Save the Date Invitations: Destination Weddings and Out of Town Guests

There are, of course, a few exceptions that call for additional notice. This is where save the date cards come in handy. If a destination wedding is being planned, it's usually best to give guests at least 5 to 6 months' notice (sometimes as much as a year) in order to allow them to schedule the event on their calendar and make travel plans.

The same goes for out of town relatives and friends, who will need to schedule ahead in order to make it to the big day. Save the date cards or "save the date invitations" are a thoughtful way to let friends and family know about the wedding 4 months or more in advance, time that's useful if they'll need to travel to get there.

Ordering, Proofing and Preparing Wedding Invitations

Under normal circumstances, it takes a professional printer about 8 weeks to turnaround a wedding invitation order. If the printer works quickly or in cases of unusual luck, this time frame may be shortened, but it's usually best to place an order at least 10 weeks ahead of the schedule for sending the invitations – 4 to 5 months before the date of the wedding.

Proofs and samples will be prepared on the printer's schedule, but make sure to go over them with an eye to detail and return them as quickly as possible in order to speed up the process.

If the bride or other family members will be addressing the invitation envelopes by hand, plan ahead and do them in increments to avoid hand strain and messy work if time runs out. That may mean starting on them and budgeting time from the minute the printer completes the invites.

Wedding Announcements and Thank You Cards

After the wedding is over, thank you cards must be sent to everyone who gave the couple a gift. These can be ordered in advance at the same time as invitations are chosen, in the same or a similar style to the wedding invites. Etiquette dictates that all thank you cards should be handwritten and mailed by three months after the wedding, or as soon as humanly possible, but late is better than never!

Wedding announcements are optional, but are typically sent out after a small wedding or if the couple elopes, in order to announce their marriage to friends and relatives who weren't present. These cards should be sent out immediately after the wedding.

Welcome to Babyland: The Home of the Cabbage Patch Kids

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In Cleveland, GA there is a hospital unlike any other. This hospital has a magical maternity ward, and specializes in the special deliveries. This isn’t your typical hospital, and these aren’t your average babies. Instead, these are babies just waiting for parents to adopt them!

How is it possible to have a whole hospital filled with babies waiting for a new home? It’s quite simple. The newborns in this hospital are special. They are small and sweet, and smell like baby powder. They are truly little dolls. That’s because they are dolls. This is the hospital that delivers Cabbage Patch Kids!

In 1976, Xavier Roberts, just 21 years old at the time, started practicing the quilting skills he learned from his mother. Combining this with other skills, he took up the German skill of fabric molding. These fabric sculptures would eventually lead to a successful business.

In 1978, Xavier Roberts started delivering his first “Little People” to craft shows in the south. That same year, he and some friends turned an old medical center in Cleveland, GA into Babyland General Hospital, opening it to the public to share his “Little People”.

In 1982, his “Little People Originals” were changed to the first of the “Cabbage Patch Kids”. At this time, he switched to using vinyl heads to turn his sculptures into toy replicas. These soon became a hit, and over 3 million had been sold by the end of 1983.

Since their debut, the Cabbage Patch Kids have continued to be a success. Every day, visitors continue to flock into the Babyland General Hospital. This great attraction offers free admission, as guests are invited to walk through the many rooms of the hospital, viewing several years of Cabbage Patch history.

Perhaps the most exciting part of the visit is hearing an announcement that a nurse is needed for a delivery. Visitors gather around the Cabbage Patch to wait for the big event. The nurse enters the patch to help the mother cabbage deliver her newborn baby. Unless the baby already has an adoptive parent who has chosen a name, guests are invited to help name the new baby boy or girl after the delivery.

As you exit the hospital, you are taken through the hospital gift shop. There, you can find souvenirs ranging from post cards and pens to dolls and accessories. These great products help to keep the hospital running, and help to keep the tour free.

This is an especially exciting experience for children, though adults are often known to take the tour without having a child in tow! Babyland is a wonderful attraction for young and old alike!

 

Picking a Wedding Photographer: Selecting a Photographer for One’s Wedding

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Whether it’s a trash the dress photo shoot in Tallahassee, FL, a reception in San Diego, CA or wedding and reception in Athens, GA, photography is an important part of the wedding day. After all, the job of a wedding photographer is to capture the emotions and activities of the happy couple so the day can be remembered for years to come. Consequently, hiring a talented wedding photographer is a must.

While many couples are stunned by the cost of hiring a wedding photographer, it is not be something to be taken lightly. There are many other ways to save money on one’s wedding, but the photographer should not be one of the choices. In selecting a qualified wedding photographer, there are several questions the couple should ask the potential wedding photographer.

How to Select a Wedding Photographer

There are a variety of features to look for in wedding photography. These may range from size of the photo packages to styles like photojournalism or candid shots. To help in the selection process, consider the following:

  • Will the wedding photographer listen to the needs and desires of the couple? The wedding day is all about the bride and groom. A photographer that has a specific type and amount of photos that they will take and who is unwilling to deviate from that will often miss unique shots that add personalization.
  • What style of photos will the photographer take? There are 2 main types of modern wedding photography: Photojournalism and traditional. A good wedding photographer will offer both.
  • Does the studio offer albums, online viewing or custom printing? Today many studios and wedding photographers offer a photo CD or the negatives. To get the most for the price paid, ask about having the photos put into a quality album. Ask if photos are available on-line so others can review and order their own set.
  • Can photos be retouched/edited? Many wedding photographers will do this automatically, but it never hurts to ask ahead of time.
  • How long has the photography studio been in business? More experience equals better photos. Check the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints.

Wedding Photographer Tips & Questions

  • Ask to see the photographer’s portfolio. Most photographers have several samples which one can peruse to get an understanding of the photographer’s work. If the photographer does not have a portfolio yet, and plans on using this wedding as part of their portfolio, ask for a discounted rate. Some studios have multiple photographers; ask to see the work of the photographer one is considering. If dissatisfied, arrange to see another person’s work.
  • What is the difference between photojournalism and traditional? Photojournalism is when the photographer anticipates and records a moment without the subjects' knowledge, when the photos are artistically and creatively refined, or uniquely posed by the photographer. These photos may be in color, black and white, or both. Formal or traditional photographs are arranged by the photographer selecting the setting, lighting, positioning and expression of the subject, and are often captured in color.
  • Ensure the photographer will be bringing more than one camera and the needed equipment, as well as any back up supplies.
  • Make sure that the photographer gets food. They are working hard to make sure that the memories of the day are wonderful. This can be hard to do if they are hungry.

Wedding photographers are an important part of one’s wedding. After all, having great photos helps one remember the beauty, love and laughter of the day. Select with care and the wedding day will be more enjoyable for all.