Thurs 1/16 – The Academy Awards (a/k/a The Oscars) reflects what has become an inseparable part of our lives in that it is tough to imagine a world without being entertained by a movie. Why are movies so important to us? Perhaps they open windows of unimaginable possibilities for us. You can escape into a world which is far from your daily activities and perhaps a less than exciting life? But there are some positives as well as negatives with movies. They can give us a reality check by playing a positive role. (1) Movies can create awareness about socio-economic and political affairs, spread awareness of drug abuse, alcoholism, HIV, the importance of education medicine, art and politics, and the plight of the homeless. This can awaken a sense of responsibility and empathy towards such situations. Sometimes people are provoked to take up causes. (2) They can produce creativity by bolstering our imaginations. The new technology is available to those wanting to explore new creative arenas and produce new and awe-inspiring works. (3) Social Entertainment – acting as an escapism for those wishing to forget their worries (I certainly can agree). (4) The more practical side (yawn) they do generate employment. But movies might also have a negative impact. (1) Commercials and advertising seize on those seconds between programs to capitalize and market their products, whether you need them or not. We become envious of what we do not have. (2) We begin to think of actors as superiors and almost have a god-like devotion for them and try to emulate and behave like them. (Yikes!) We follow celebs in the media and dress, talk and act like them. Will the real me stand up? (3) Movies can encourage violence and immoral acts through replicating and creating crime scenes and traumatized victims at the mercy of their captors. BUT – All in all I must confess I do like a good movie!!
And the Cocktail winners are:
Oscar night cocktail
Courvoisier, Cointreau, fresh squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup
Tale of two powers
Courvoisier, ginger bitters, angostura bitters, orange bitters, simple syrup
Singapore fling
St Remy XO, Cointreau, lemon juice, lychees
Cleo’s cup $7
Brandy, lime juice, agave syrup, topped with champagne
City of Stars
Douglas fir brandy, fresh squeezed lemon juice, lavender bitters, simple syrup, topped with Champagne
NC Spirits Flight
Sat 1/18 7:30 PM – MR JIMMY writes, sings and plays the Blues Chicago style. A lifelong resident of the city’s infamous South Side, he has shared the stage with Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, Little Milton, James Cotton, Junior Wells, Lefty Dizz, Jimmy Dawkins, Johnny Twist, and the list goes on… He has released 10 albums of original music with the Chicago Kingsnakes, and is pleased to announce the debut of his new solo release “All Alone With the Blues”. Mr. Jimmy also produces and hosts an NPR radio show “Confessin’ The Blues” where he interviews and performs with many Blues artists. He will be performing with Charlie Wilkinson on bass.
Thurs 1/23 – Carolina Epicurean represents a group who have been writing about food & drink in the Carolinas since 2007. They have undertaken to getting to know, and learning from, so many culinary professionals from farmers to chefs to restaurant owners to food writers. They consider it a priority to support and promote independent culinary-focused businesses by publishing their latest news. They share a passion for travel and exploring everything that is the Carolina culinary scene. The Carolina Epicurean will be hosting a cocktail hour to meet and enjoy one another’s company. The Epicureans are devoted to exploring the sensual pleasures of good and drink. Join them for an evening of enlightening conversation and passion for the “fineries” of life.