Scandalous Saturday

                                                            "Love... What's That???"

                                                                                                 - A.Wilson

You throw on your Tory Burch's, Zara jeans, and a perfect blouse to accent you voluptuous curves. You hop in the car cruising with your lipgloss that's "poppin". Upon parking up "Red Lip Lola" you stroll seductively through the doors and make your way towards your target. Just two feet away you see the rarest of specimens. Think Idris Elba, need we say more?! Suddenly your concentration is broken by a announcement of 3 for 5. And just like that you missed your hungry man in the frozen food isle.

There are many women in search of Mr.Right but half the time; your big catch can become a huge flop. Half the time we assume it's the person. However, sometimes you need to consider the place you encountered him. A clue to who you maybe dealing with, may stem from their surroundings.

                                                                         WORK

                                                                                                                             

Most people spend the majority of their lives at work!!!  So we deemed this place as one of the worse places to meet a man.  Of course you might have some options at the office, who doesn't??  However think about it, would you like to be in the dating stages with someone that you have to see every single day 9-5??  That first date that you anticipated so badly to become your prince charming and he ends up being the date from hell.  Then you go home from that nightmare saying "thank GOD this date is over" just to wake up the next morning go in to work and there the nightmare is again that you cant rid of running into........screams......BIG MISTAKE!!!!

Your Neighborhood

It is never a wise choice to entertain the idea of dating someone from your area, you could hit it off and have a steamy relationship for a couple of months. But when the heat cools off, the stale air will set in. Leaving you with the reality that this person can observe your every move. Imagine having to come home only to know that this person lives on your block; or right upstairs from you. Trust there is nothing that puts a damper on a date more than, the awkwardness of running into one of your ex's.

Clubs.. Bars..Strip Clubs

There is a reason Ron Browz made the song "No Wifing In The Club", however you have become enticed by the swagg of "Sir Cuff Alot". Shame on you!! There is one thing you must remember ladies, never talk to a promoter or D.J. Yes, we have been known to be guilty of this one. But we have learned our lesson; take notes and beware. There is nothing more alluring than the club scene; the bottles, music, and all around good vibe. However, keep in mind that the invitation to breakfast or meeting up later has been offered to another woman that same evening. Or even earlier in the week, you could become another jumpoff, even if he makes you feel like numero uno. Also the way a man acts in the club, is the way he will act when your at home when he's out.

You've seen him down a couple of shots of Henessy, a Long Island Ice Tea, and a Patron Margarita. Yet somehow the red flags haven't gone off yet. Ladies your just asking for heartbreak..  First of all, there may be a clear indication that he has a alcohol problem. Second a man's perception of you when he's intoxicated is never the same as when he's sober!! So it should come as no surprise the next morning if he has no recollection of who you are.

To my ladies who enjoy going to the strip clubs, whether male or female please be advised. The strip club is a rare place to find your Mr. Right!! Yes, he's got a nice body, has straddled you on his face, and is covered in baby oil; but keep in mind that there is a reason his name is Mandingo.And that sock over his man parts maybe stuffed. Leaving you highly disappointed if you do the grown up later!! Along with his long list of clients he's accumulated over the years.

And for my females who can't stand the thought of a male strip club; opting to go to Perfection's on a Wednesday. You should know already what to expect if a man tries to talk to you in a strip club. He's brought you and himself a lap dance, and gave you the stack to make it rain; while tipping you in the process. How charming  you've found your Casanova. Not to say that they are all hopeless, but they are there watching half naked women twerk and twirl around a pole. If you do decide to invoke in dating, you can't be upset when he suggest to go see his favorite dancer. He should have enough respect to keep it at home while you dance for him. However, being that's where you've met he'll assume you have no problem with venturing out.

FASHION FRIDAYS

“You don’t learn style from watching people on a runway. Fashion happens every morning when you wake up.”
                                                                                      -Shalom Harlow

THIS SPRING YOU CAN MAKE A CHIC OUTFIT OUT OF THREE ESSENTIAL ITEMS.  IF YOU THINK ABOUT IT START FROM HEAD TO TOE AND THINK TO YOURSELF OUT OF A CHOICE OF SHOES, HATS, JEWELRY, PANTS, BAGS, COVER UP, ETC.  WHAT THREE ITEMS WOULD I CHOOSE.  WELL WE CAME UP WITH SPRINGS 2012 ESSENTIAL MUST HAVES WHICH INCLUDE FROM HEAD TO TOE A DENIM COVER UP, A SHOULDER BAG, AND A TOP PICK RAIN BOOT!! ENJOY!!!

THE DENIM JACKET

DENIM JACKET BY H&M 30-

BAG BY H&M 20-

BURBERRY TASSEL RAIN BOOTS 350-

SPERRY PELICAN BOOTS 80-

ALDO "ARVEZ" BAG 29-

MINI PARTY MESSENGER BAG BY ZARA 50-

DENIM JACKET BY RALPH LAUREN 92-buy here

FENDI 195-

GUCCI 235-

                                   ~fashion lights report~

As of April 2nd Nike premiered their 2nd installment of the Liberty Collection!!!  This collection features an array of decorative patterns and colors that will be sure to highlight that weekend chic ensemble of a pair of leggings, a tank, with a cool denim jacket.  

         WE APPROVE

 

Thoughts For Thursday

             "We Need A Reminder Of Where We Came From; To See Where We Can End Up"                                                                                                     -A. Wilson




Before Trayvon Martin... There Was Emmett Till

With all that has occurred in the past month regarding the Trayvon Benjamin Martin case, and the delayed arrest of his admitted murder. It's no wonder why much of the African American community is in uproar; feeling racial flashbacks of a similar case where one of our own was unjustifiably murdered and those arrested where acquitted. For those of you who aren't familiar with the (lynching) murder of Emmett Luis Till, we suggest you research your history. At just 14, Till was dragged from a family members home in the stalk of night in 1955, and his worries were far from over. Emmett Till, was hung from a beam in a shed, beaten, had his eye gouged out, and was shot in the head for committing the ultimate taboo back in those days of Jim Crow. Then as  if enough damage was not inflicted, they took a  70 pound cotton gin fan; with a piece of barb wire wrapped around his neck. To weigh down his body and threw him in the Tallahachie River. Because of the era, Till's abduction and murder was not viewed as an importance to authorities. The state of Mississippi tried to cover up the harsh reality of hatred that black faced everyday in the south. When Emmett's body was brought back home to his mother in Chicago, they banned the funeral director from opening the box his body was confined in. However, they under estimated the love and determination of his mother Mamie Till Mobley. She demanded a hammer to open the box herself to see her son once last time. When it was made clear that she had such urgency the funeral director; made arrangements to open the box. The next day nothing could prepare Mamie Till Mobley for what she witnessed as the remains of her only child. Her only son laid disfigured beyond belief, and instead of breaking down she prepared to impact the world requesting that her son's funeral be open to the public. In a open casket procession; giving a image of hatred ad ignorance to the world.

Emmett Till's Open Casket

 Using her grief as a key token to bring forth change, as well as seek justice for her son. Praying that no mother would have to experience her grief. All for a mere whistling at a white woman.

Now almost fifty seven years later we are facing the same heartache. Much like Emmett, Trayvon's blood was innocently shed. Yet instead of peace being brought forward to his parents they face grief. With constant attacks on their son's character, a band wagon of critics discussing if George Zimmerman, was just in his actions. Is there really any justification in taking the life of someones son? Trayvon was viewed as  "suspicious", wearing a hoodie made him a "thug". In Zimmerman's words "There's something wrong with this guy".. "He's definitely on drugs or something, he's just walking around in the rain" "Now he's looking right at me". Zimmerman then proceeded to follow Trayvon, exiting his car and proceeding after him on foot. Even though emergency dispatch made it clear that he shouldn't. He began chasing after Trayvon stating that "These niggers always get away". Concluding his call with 911, he approaches Trayvon, who was talking with is girlfriend on his cell phone. Interrogating him saying, "What are you doing here?" Pushing Trayvon to the floor, and screams of Trayvon Martin asking for "Help.. help..help". And a single shot heard by neighbors. When authorities reach the scene Zimmerman, is standing over  Trayvon Martin, admitting to gunning the teen down in self defense. But does a man who is so fearful go after his said "attacker"? Of course not.. and once again we find the authority of Florida, acting like the citizens of Money, Mississippi in 1955. Trying to cover up the murder of Trayvon Martin. Listing him as a John Doe and not notifying his parents until a few days later. Adding insult to injury stating they would not arrest Zimmerman, with out probable cause. Suggesting that Zimmerman, could have felt threatened by seventeen year old Trayvon, carrying a bag of Skittles and a Arizona Ice Tea.

                                   
 Zimmerman was questioned for five hours at police headquarters the night of the shooting (February 26th 2012) then released. He was not tested for drugs or alcohol, and a background check was not conducted. Yet Trayvon Martin's, corpse was tested for illegal substances and they looked into his records hoping to find something to smear his name. Looking to turn the victim into the predator in the eyes of the public. But the people who raised and loved Trayvon can contest to his character. Letting the public know that their son was far from a "hoodlum". Now in 2012, we find Tracy and Sabrina Martin searching for answers and justice for their beloved Trayvon. Gathering strength from their grief, marching and gaining supporters with the help of Al Sharpton and Jessie Jackson. Giving their slain son a voice.

The last thing we want is another sham of a trial when it comes to Trayvon, and although we as a people are infuriated by the ignorance of many with racial profiling. We also have to realize as parents, to prepare our beautiful babies being killed; not only by those who are prejudice but also by our own. We have to change the outlook that we are entitled to the freedom that our ancestors had to fight so religiously and diligently for. We need to educate our future of the past although it may seem like it's happened so long ago. There are evident signs that Jim Crow is still around. Just because we consider ourselves free; dosen't mean we are. The laws that were set and are suppose to protect us, somehow don't apply to us. Leaving us like our ancestors of the south. Without a voice or protection in certain situations. 

We 1stClassLadies as mother's felt the need to address such tragedy; asking our readers to wake up and become aware of how histiory is always repeating itself. It was Emmett in August of 1955, Trayvon in Febuary of 2012, Will it be you or your child next??
                                           

                                    

Wanted Wednesday

Just like moms house; here will also have rules- J.Davis

Rules of The Rommmate

In the world we live in today, the word "affordable" has since left the vocabulary of many. Nothing seems reasonable especially the cost of living on ones own. Because of that, many choose to get a roommate to help split the cost. Sometimes it's with people you know and others it's with those you don't. Whatever the case, 1stClassLadies is going to tell you how to pick a roommate as well as how to budget between them in order to survive in a civil as well as responsible environment. So grab a pen and paper and take notes.

Picking The Right Roommate. If its a familiar face or one you don't, this person has to be right for you. There are also a few things to be certain of. They need to be employed or have a guaranteed source of income. You want to be sure that one month you won't turn around and be stuck with all the bills and rent. Depending on your sex, you may want someone of the same gender. So if it's through advertisement when promoting what your looking for, make sure to specify that so that your not wasting your time or the person looking. Also be sure to state if you want or don't want pets and/or smokers.

The Familiar Face. In most cases people prefer to share and apartment with someone they know. It gives them a sense of peace knowing that the person they live with is someone they have been around and trust. Though this is a great idea, this can also go sour and ruin a friendship. Being friends before two or more parties move in together does not give anyone a free pass. As a roommate whether written or unwritten your entering into a contract to do right by each other and hold up your end of the bargain regardless for the sake of keeping your space in the apartment.

Non Familiar Face. Then there are those who share space with people they don't know. Some aren't from the particular area therefore they don't know people. Others may need to move ASAP and waiting is not an option. In any event, remember when dealing with someone you don really know be safe and smart. Know as much information as you can about one another like where they work or background. Also get any and everything in writing (I.e. recipes.) understand your safety is very important. If your the one moving into a room, have the locks changed so only you have have the key. Leave an extra key at a family members or friends house if possible.

Whether its people you know or people you don't, rules should be set into place so everyone is on the same page from the very beginning. Here are a few main things that 1stClassLadies thought should be discussed before or right after moving in:

• Talk about the cost. 1CL prefers everything be split EVENLY. No one should pay more then another unless they have more baggage (I.e. a baby.) There should be a set day the rent is collected and handed in. So that no one can say this was not the agreement put it in writing and everyone sign it.

• House care should be split evenly as well. Take turns with who will wash the dishes and who will sweep/mop the floors. Or split the rooms up. Someone cleans the kitchen and the other be responsible for the bathroom. When it comes to buying things for the house like food it's optional and depending on how often your even home you can decide that amongst each other. Roommates can have a "house jar" which everyone can contribute a certain amount of money each month or week for items that will be shared within the house like tissue, cleaning supplies, etc.

• Company. If the living room is the common place for entertaining company and roommates do not run in the same circle, make sure to inform each other when there will be guest. This will prevent both parties from clashes with guest, arguments and unequal use of space. Be considerate to one another as a sign if respect.

If you as roommates apply these helpful tips when moving in with each other, 1stClassLadies are positive that this will be an easy process for all parties involved.

Direct Supp Asst Trainee

apply here

Park Worker (Parks & Recreation)

apply here

Entry Level Maintenance

apply here

Mail Message Services Worker (Hunter College)

apply here:look for the above job title

Laborer A (Medgar Evers College)

apply here: look for the above job title

PayRoll Specialist-JetBlue (Forest Hills, NY)

apply here

Center Customer Service Rep FEDEX

apply here

City Park Worker (Parks & Recreation Dept)

apply here

PlayGround Associate (Parks & Recreation Dept)

apply here

Computer Aide (NYC Taxi & Limousine)

apply here

                                                               West 39th St Manhattan
                                                                             view here

                                                                                Harlem
                                                                             view here

                                                               West 49th St Manhattan
                                                                             view here

                                                                       

Tasteful Tuesday

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well- Virginia Woolf

Nothing Like Soco

If your looking for a good time, with unique food, great drinks and in the company of good friends and/or family look no further- Soco is the spot for you. Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Soco has planted its feet and has no plans of re-rooting. This Jazzy spot is  1stClassLadies had the pleasure of dinning at the eatery and we must say it was definitely a delight.

That's Customer Service. From the moment you enter you are greeted with a warm smile and a a professional host. With the DJ on deck the place is live and you are taking to your seat. The waitress was very kind and did not rush us to order. We ordered an appetizer thinking it was one thing and it turned out to be something else. Without even batting a lash, she kindly took it away and stated " Not a problem. I understand." Such a joy to be around and certain gave the impression that she liked what she was doing.

A Unique Food. Soco gives you a new style of eating with their southern fused food. Fusion food is described by the owners as a mixture of cajun/creole, barbecue and soul food. Something not really seen in New York as of yet. One of their most talked about and well known dish- red velvet waffles and chicken. Absolutely a one of a kind dish. Then there is the sweet home fries- YUMMY!!! But 1stClassLadies favorite food wasn't even a main dish but an appetizer- Banana Bread!! You read it right. So warm, soft and beyond moist just the way banana bread should be. Every dish brought to the table was well cooked and worthy of the small wait.

It's All About The Environment. Anywhere you go to dine, you want it to be and enjoyable experience. 1stClassLadies are all mothers and are always looking for places where we can dine and bring the kids along without getting stares from people. Soco is one of those spots for sure. Everyone was enjoying their meal with their families. However don't feel like if your a couple or single guy, the spot is not for you. It's just right for any size group especially with outdoor available (warm weather is vastly approaching!)

So if your looking for a venue with all the characteristics needed to be considered and an A+ then Soco is just right for you!

Soco

509 Myrtle Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11205

Hour Of Operation:

Sun: 12pm - 12am; Mon: closed; Tues - Thurs: 5pm - 12am; Fri & Sat: 12pm - 2am

That's My Kinda Recipe!

Pomegranate Martini

2 oz citrus vodka
1/2 ozfresh lemon juice
1/4 ozfresh pomegranate juice
1 oz simple syrup

Shake all ingredients well with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Add a dash of rose water if available. Garnish with flamed orange peel, and serve. Our fan Murray W. on Facebook recommends trying the recipe with Grand Mariner [or Cointreau] instead of simple syrup.

*courtesy of drinkmixer.com*

Make Up Monday

Kiss and Make up- but too much makeup has ruined many a kisses- Mae West

A Little Less Makeup But Still The Same Beauty!

With the warmer weather approaching, its very clear that when it comes to wearing makeup- less is more! Too much makeup will be over the top and your painted on pretty face will start to melt (Don't act like you have never seen it before!) 1stClassLadies want our dedicated readers to continue looking young and fresh so we have decided to put y'all on to whats too much and whats just right for the warmer weather. From what you can leave out to what is a must wear, we have got you covered.

Smashbox Primer available @ Sephora for $36

Primer is a Must. Some people just don't understand but making time for the primer does help. Primer is placed onto your face after you have moisturized it. Primer is not heavy and holds your makeup in place causing you to use less of it. Just like the primer you use in your house to paint, face primer creates a smooth base for whatever you will apply next.

bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation

  
Go a little less made up. So that your not melting faster then the wicked witch of the West minimize the use of ALL your products. Instead of using foundation use a moisturizer that has a tinted color. Its less heavy on the face and the chances of it becoming cakey are low. If you have blemishes or red spots you can apply powder foundation in those areas that need it for extra coverage. Try- I repeat- TRY TO AVOID CREAMY/LIQUID FOUNDATIONS!! It will make u sweat more and takes away from the natural make up look. Same rules go for concealer. Stick concealers only in spots that really need to be covered is a good idea.

available through avon. Need a rep? Try 1CL's rep Mary Gilmore! Comment for contact info.

also available through avon

Bronzer Is Beautiful. Sometimes all it takes is a little bronzer to keep your face refreshed and beautiful. To avoid looking over cooked and fake this summer, apply only to high points of your face such as high cheek bones, forehead, nose, and chin. Once again use a POWDER bronzer preferably one with various shades so when you apply it it gives a more natural look. Or get a bronzer and blush that's swirled together. It gives a more radiant and eye catching affect.

Lips Worthy of The Proper Care. Don't feel like because its getting warmer outside and lipstick is just to heavy that you have to forget about your lips or use plain old lip balm. They not only need to be moist but they also deserve to be just as hot as the outfit you wear to coordinate with the beautiful weather! Try tinted lip balm. Its gives you a cool feel that's not too thick but also allows you to keep your sexy through color. A lot of tinted balms now a days have SPF protecting your lips from the sun.

Blot Just A Bit. Some of us lets face it- cant help but be shiny. Avoid being hot and looking it too by investing in some blotting papers. A quick press and your off to your destinations. They are easy, affordable and a must have if you suffer from shiny- itis!  You can even blot before applying your powder.


You don't want to have to worry if your "face" is falling off. Enjoy the great weather and have fun. Follow these great tips and 1stClassLadies are sure you will not only be dressed for comfort this warm season but also feel it.  Here are  some tutorials they may help u with the natural easy look.  Hope they help you like they did 1stclassLadies!  

SOULFUL SUNDAYS

“You were born with wings, why prefer to crawl through life?”   

-Rumi

Everyone is born with as purpose.  Dont let life pass you by without exploring what that purpose might be.  Educate yourself, Travel, network, experience life and most importantly Enjoy Life.  

Check out our picks for this weeks Things To Do!!! 

SHOPPING

When: Today April 1st (Last Day)

What: BLOOMINGDALES FRIENDS & FAMILY SALE

Where: Bloomingdales 

                East 59th St & Lexington Ave

                New York, NY

SOURCE

                                                NITE OUT

When: Each and every Sunday 8 p.m.- Close

What: SUNDAY FUNDAY @ BOWLMOR LANES

Where: 110 University Pl bt 12th & 13th st

                New York, NY

                and other Locations

Come have a night out in the city for Bowlmor Lanes Sunday Funday!! Bowl $6 games and $3 shoe rentals.  Great ambiance and a very tasty menu featuring favorites like sliders, wings, quesadillas, and a full bar!!!SOURCE

When: Each & Every Friday

What: PARTY @ Club REBEL

Where: 251 West 30th St bt 7 & 8 ave

                New York, NY

A nite out you'll never forget is one spent at this NY hotspot!!!



                                                                   

                                                                   MEET & GREET

When: Wed April 4th 12:30- 1:30 p.m.

What: LUNCH WITH ACTRESS TORI SPELLING

Where: Barnes & Noble

                555 5th Ave

                New York, NY

Come meet famous 90120 actress now turned author at the well known bookstore as she discusses her new work "Celebratori: Unleashing your inner party planner to entertain Friends & Family"!!!

SOURCE











When: Now until Sun April 15th
What: NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
Where: Jacob Javits Convention Center
                655 West 34th St
                New York, NY
         


                                                                       

When: Sat April 7th 5:00 p.m.
What: TARGET FIRST SATURDAY (KEITH HARING)
Where: Brooklyn Museum
                200 Eastern Pkwy
                Brooklyn, NY

Explore the exhibition “Keith Haring: 1978–1982” at tonight’s free Target First Saturday. Then try your hand at making a stick-figure print inspired by the Pop artist’s works. Break-dancing by Floor Royalty Crew and a set by punk band the Library Is on Fire, will salute the scene that influenced Haring.           


       HAVE A GREAT WEEK TO OUR READERS!!