La Fogata Features New Tequila for April

La Fogata is excited to announce that they will be featuring a new tequila throughout the month of April. Well-known tequila Hornitos will be available to customers. The restaurant encourages customers to come in and enjoy a Fiesta Margarita with Hornitos Tequila.

Hornitos Tequila is available in a variety of drink options, including a Blood Orange Margarita, Sauza Skinny Margarita and the Top Shelf Margarita. Customers also have the option of enjoying a frozen margarita with Hornitos Plata Tequila.

The Blood Orange Margarita is made with Hornitos Plata Tequila, Dekuyper Blood Orange Liqueur and fresh lime juice. The Sauza Skinny Margarita is made with Agave Nectar and Hornitos Plata Tequila. The Top Shelf Margarita contains Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Orange Liqueur and fresh lime juice.

La Fogata is also currently completely decorated for Fiesta and is ready to create a memorable experience for all their guests. Stop in today to check it out.

In addition, the Lent Entrée Feature will continue to be offered through the month.

La Fogata encourages all their customers to come in and try one of their famous margaritas today. For more information about the restaurant or to make a reservation, call 210-340-1337.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a tequila enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Discover the Wines of Don Quixote's Spain

Don Quixote by Ciprian Frunza

The wineries of Castilla-La Mancha look forward to bringing their distinctive wines to three US cities during the week of February 24th 2014. Just as local ‘celebrity’, Don Quixote, traveled through his region seeking adventure and noble experiences, trade and press at the Castilla-La Mancha US tastings will do the same as they discover the wines of 25 participating producers. Each of these events will offer guests the opportunity to experience the wines and traditions of this distinctive region. The events will welcome members of US wine trade and press.

Castilla-La Mancha is the most expansive wine-producing region in the world. It is a land of fascinating foods and cultural traditions and, naturally, a wide variety of wines. The land, composed of limestone clay and a great variety of subsoils, makes the region ideal for growing grape vines. Within the Castilla-La Mancha area, there are nine appellations of origin, four estates with their own appellations and many ‘Geographical Indication Wines’.

After years of focus and investment in quality wine production and a very successful reception of our wines by industry professionals on the 2013 tour, Castilla la Mancha is excited to bring their distinctive traditions to new cities and educate press and trade about the quality and diversity of these wines through these tastings.

Each event in all three cities will be hosted by wine expert Geralyn Brostrom, Advanced Sommelier and Certified Wine Educator. She will share the winemaking history of the region of Castilla-La Mancha, the technical qualities of its wines, and the sales opportunity for these wines in the US market with the trade and press, followed by an afternoon walk-around.

The participating wineries include Alcoholes de Tomelloso, Bodegas Arrayan, Bodegas Cristo de la Vega, Bodega Dehesa de Luna, Bodega Familia Mateos de la Higuera, Bodegas Los Aljibes, Bodegas Real, Bodegas Romero de Avila, Bodegas San Dionisio, Bodegas Videl del Saz, Bodegas Yuntero, Bodegas Zagarron, Bogarve 1915, Dominio de Punctum, El Progreso, Encomienda de Cervera, Finca el Refugio, Finca la Blanca, Finca la Estacada, Finca Los Alijares, Finca Rio Negro, Ntra. Sra. De La Cabeza, Vinicola de Castilla, Vinicola de Tomelloso and Vinos & Bodegas.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The Macallan 55 Year Old Leads Bonhams Edinburgh Whisky Sale

A bottle of The Macallan-55 year old in a Lalique Crystal Decanter leads Bonhams Whisky sale in Edinburgh on Wednesday 26 February. It is estimated at between £12,000-15,000.

The Macallan 55 year old is regularly included in the world’s top 10 most desirable whiskies. Aged in Spanish Oak, it is said to have mace, ground ginger and nutty notes and was bottled in a Lalique decanted modelled on perfume bottle design dating from 1910. The bottle for sale is numbered 220 out of 420.

Another highly desirable from the sale distillery, The Macallan 1951, is one of 632 bottles and is estimated at £9,000-11,000.

Three exceptional bottles of Bowmore are presented in one lot estimated at £12,000-15,000. They are Black Bowmore-42 year old-1964, number 557 out of an edition of 827 bottles; White Bowmore-43 year, number 183 of 732 and Gold Bowmore, number 83 from an edition of 701.

Bonhams whisky specialist, Martin Green, said, “The Macallan 55 year old is one of the great whiskies and fully deserves its iconic status. The link with Lalique adds further lustre and we are very pleased to be able to offer it as the leading bottle in a strong and varied sale.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a whisky enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Bride Plans to Marry Her Bicycle

After 15 years together, Lisa Nelson has decided to marry Steel Spokes, her beloved bicycle. The next day, the Spokes shall depart on a six-month bicycle touring honeymoon. On March 2, 2014, the unusual couple will tie the knot in Pacifica, just South of San Francisco. The Hawaiian themed affair will have the bridesmaids dressed in hula attire, complete with a flower girl, and a ring-bearing pooch (also appropriately dressed). The wedding party and assorted guests will be on bicycle. The entourage plans to cycle along the ocean to the old Pacifica Courthouse for the marriage ceremony. A festive luau reception shall follow.

All right, so why is this gal marrying her bicycle? The bride states, “This is an attempt to accomplish a variety of ambitious goals from a bicycle that lead to ever bigger dreams.” She says that her ultimate dream is to create the "Semester on Cycle" university program, and this is the first phase of turning that dream into a reality. By moving her life to her bicycle, she hopes to lower her cost of living, complete her writing for her Ph.D. from Ohio University, and experiment with a bunch of collaborative arts, music, and service projects. The couple's new love nest will be primarily a tent, as they aim to keep to a $20 a day budget.

The bicycle marriage idea came to Lisa as a fundraising idea after reflecting on how many weddings and babies that she had helped fund. The project is posted on Indiegogo. In return for any support, the Spokes will provide an array of unique entertaining perks.

Lisa explains that this project is a culmination of her personal and professional experiences. She has led students from high school (delinquent to privileged youth) to college age on adventure and service experiences in the United States and Central America, for a non-profit organization, for-profit tour companies, and through a university. However, it’s been over 15 years since Lisa has done an extended bicycle trip, and she has never attempted to accomplish major tasks while living on a bicycle.

The newlyweds plan to depart from northern California and ride south, but the specific route is not planned, nor will it be. “We want to let fate take its course and see where we were meant to end up.” Having said that, they do hope to see the world. Everything they own fits into the bride’s car, which will stay behind at a friend’s home. Lisa has already begun blogging about the experience. She aims to blog throughout the bicycle adventure, and post entertaining videos along the way.

Lisa and Steel are originally from Willoughby, Ohio, but moved to San Francisco just over two years ago. They intend to continue making the Bay area their home, but are open to building their life elsewhere should the right circumstances present.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The 50 Most Popular World Travel Destinations

Which destinations continued to be favorites among American travelers in 2013 and where are the new tourism hotspots? Fodors.com reveals the answers with their first annual list of the year’s most popular travel destinations according to the more than 4.5 million unique monthly visitors to the brand’s website. Of the 7,500 destinations Fodors.com covers around the world, the leading travel publisher has identified 2013’s top 50 worldwide travel locales as well as the 50 destinations that have grown most in popularity over 2012 based on destination-guide page views from natural search by American visitors to Fodors.com.

“Natural search is a strong indicator of travelers’ intent to visit a destination--these are people that came to us because they were actively researching a trip using a search engine,” says Arabella Bowen, Editor in Chief of Fodor’s Travel.

While New York City continued to top the travel charts in 2013, many of the U.S.’s charming small cities and regions emerged with record interest. Texas Hill Country, situated between Austin and San Antonio and home to a burgeoning wine scene, saw the most dramatic growth in 2013, with a 258% increase in page views according to Fodors.com website statistics. Charleston, S.C., Savannah, G.A., and New York’s Hudson Valley also saw increased interest in 2013 and joined New Orleans, Napa and Sonoma, and Washington, D.C. in the top 50 most-popular destinations for the year.

Europe, the subject of Eugene Fodor’s first guidebook, ON THE CONTINENT (published in 1936), experienced a post-recession resurgence in 2013. Paris and Rome appear in the top ten of the year’s most visited destinations on Fodors.com while Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Ireland and Iceland all saw page views more than double.

“Europe is back in a big way, with the strongest numbers we’ve seen in years, which is really exciting. A number of great events and cultural happenings like Ireland’s The Gathering as well as terrific travel values in countries like Spain have helped put a spotlight on travel to the continent,” said Bowen. “At the same time, we saw a shift to new regions in the United States, like Texas Hill Country and the Oregon Coast, which indicates the Fodor’s audience is always looking to discover new places and experiences, something the brand has long embodied.”

Highlighting the popularity of warm-weather destinations among Americans, the report also revealed that eleven of the top 25 most-visited destination guides on Fodors.com in 2013 were beach retreats. Hawaii is a perennial favorite, along with Caribbean islands like St. Martin and Turks and Caicos. Mexican hotspots showed tremendous growth last year, with travelers showing increased interest in Isla Mujeres, Los Cabos, and the Riviera Maya. Other beach destinations with a significant uptick in interest included Puerto Rico (particularly San Juan and Vieques and Culebra); St. John and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and the Dominican Republic.

To explore these great destinations and other locations around the world, with travel tips from the experts and more, visit Fodors.com.

TOP 50 MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS WORLDWIDE:

1. New York City
2. Paris
3. The Florida Keys
4. San Francisco
5. New Orleans
6. Maui
7. St. Martin/St. Maarten
8. Las Vegas
9. Rome
10. Washington, D.C.
11. Big Island, Hawaii
12. London
13. Kauai
14. Bermuda
15. Napa and Sonoma
16. Turks and Caicos
17. Honolulu and Oahu
18. Seattle
19. Cape Cod
20. Los Cabos, Mexico
21. Barcelona
22. Savannah
23. Chicago
24. Boston
25. St. Lucia
26. Montreal
27. Miami
28. Charleston
29. Los Angeles
30. San Diego
31. Santa Fe
32. Philadelphia
33. Amsterdam, Netherlands
34. Aruba
35. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
36. Puna Cana, Dominican Republic
37. The Hudson Valley
38. Cayman Islands
39. San Antonio
40. Venice
41. San Juan, Puerto Rico
42. Walt Disney World
43. Cancun
44. Grand Canyon
45. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
46. Buenos Aires
47. Florence
48. Jamaica
49. Quebec City
50. Puerto Rico

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

MKE Brewing Introduces New IPA Named Litta Bitta

The 2014 year-round and seasonal calendar for MKE Brewing Co. will be the most innovative for the young microbrewery in its’ history. To commemorate the occasion they are launching the first new seasonal in over a year. Litta Bitta White IPA will lead off this exciting calendar year in fine fashion.

Available while supplies last over the next 2 months, Litta Bitta’s inviting light pepper and citrus aromas abound up front and blend well with lemon and grapefruit flavors as a result of a lemongrass infusion. This balanced and refreshing White IPA finishes with a touch of wheat that beckons you back for more. Clocking in at 50 IBUs and 6.5% ABV this will be the perfect White IPA to brighten up the winter doldrums and get everyone thinking about spring.

The recipe for Litta Bitta is a result of friendly internal brewery competition in 2013 where the brewers challenged themselves to create different recipes for the “12 months of IPA’s”. Each IPA was brewed and served at the Milwaukee Ale House, MKE Brewing Co.’s brewpub. This particular recipe for White IPA, created by lead brewer Brian Blazel, was so popular that it was the only IPA recipe to be repeated throughout the year. “I am both honored and excited to have one of my recipes make it into the line-up this year” says Blazel.

Owner Jim McCabe added, “Our company culture attracts and fosters passion and creativity. The Litta Bitta release spotlights what our team is up to every day. We all feed off of incredible collaboration and our fans get to enjoy this glimpse of real craft brewing.”

The name Litta Bitta ia a reference to the brutal feud between the two founding fathers of Milwaukee, Solomon Juneau and Byron Kilbourn. In the mid-1800’s, the respective leaders of Juneautown west of the river and Kilbourtown east of the river could not come to a resolution to unite their two settlements with a common bridge.

The Bridge War, as it came to be known resulted in a bloody feud lasting more than a year, until the two settlements came together for a unified resolution for the future of Milwaukee in 1846. Interestingly enough, this is why all of the bridges Milwaukee are slightly askew and none run directly east and west.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a beer enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

New iPhone and Android App Theater Ears Promises No More Subtitles

South Florida Orthodontist Dr. Larry Kawa has announced that he is launching a new mobile app, Theater Ears, that will allow moviegoers the ability to hear a movie in the language of your choice, without the subtitles.

The app, which is scheduled for release on both Google's Android and Apple's iOS, will allow a user to synchronize a dubbed audio track of the film playing in a movie theater. The idea is to allow people whose native language is not English to enjoy the experience of going to an English language movie theater while hearing the film in their native language.

Dr. Kawa was inspired to develop this new iPhone & Android app for his mother-in-law, who is not a native English speaker, to enjoy the U.S. theater experience in her own native language, Spanish.

“As millions come to America speaking another language, there is a tremendous demand for moviegoers to watch popular American films in their native language. Whether it is Spanish, Chinese, Creole, or Italian, the new Theater Ears mobile app will allow millions who are unable to speak or are uncomfortable with the English language the opportunity to enjoy the art of Hollywood like never before,” stated Dr. Larry Kawa, the app's creator.

Unlike other ideas around this concept, Theater Ears does not require a streaming internet connection. With many theaters offering no WiFi and poor 4G LTE reception, Theater Ears has created an app solution that does not face the major problem of lack of internet connectivity.

The latest date from the 2011 American Community Survey along with the most recent U.S. Census data shows that roughly 1 out of 5 American homes speak a language other than English, or 60.6 million Americans. Two thirds of those Americans speak Spanish.

Few theaters in the United States feature alternate language subtitles denying those Americans the opportunity to hear the action of the movie theater in their own native language. In addition, many DVDs only offer audio dubbed in certain languages. Languages such as Tagalog (widely spoken in the Philippines), Vietnamese, Arabic, and German are often not found in DVD & Blu-ray releases.

To encourage new users of Theater Ears for iPad, iPhone and Android devices, the app will allow each user to sample one movie free of charge.

Dr. Kawa went on to state, “In today's world of creativity, technology, and opportunity, there's no longer a reason to exclude anyone just because their ears are trained in a foreign land. For the first time ever, Theater Ears' groundbreaking technology will allow them the fair chance to find a little piece of their homeland in every theater seat in America. Voice is passion. No more subtitles. Theater Ears.”

About Theater Ears

Theater Ears was founded in February of 2013 by South Florida orthodontist Dr. Larry Kawa. Theater Ears is a multimedia app development company that seeks to revolutionize the movie going experience through its app titled, Theater Ears. Based in Boca Raton, Fl, the company will offer via its app the ability to watch a motion picture in the movie theater and listen to the accompanying audio track in your native language in real time. The app is in development for both Apple's iOS platform (iPad, iPod, iPhone) and Google's Android platform (mobile phones and tablets).

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a tequila enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes Announces 2014 Event

Taste cool-climate wines from around the world, try wine and food pairings and learn why wineries in New York’s Finger Lakes have gained international respect. Joshua Greene, editor and publisher of Wine & Spirits magazine, will be the keynote speaker at the second annual Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes, which will be held June 13-14 in Geneva, New York.

“I'm excited to be visiting the Finger Lakes again. With so much emphasis on eating and drinking local, New Yorkers are blessed to have one of the world's great terroirs in our back yard—not only for wine, but for exceptional food as well. The Wine Symposium is a moment to consider Finger Lakes riesling, pinot noir and cabernet franc in the context of cool-climate wines from around the world,” says Josh Greene.

Riesling has become the region’s signature wine, so the Symposium will kick off June 13 with a Grand Tasting of finalists from the Finger Lakes AVA Riesling Challenge. Winners of the Riesling Challenge, taking place April 4, will be presented trophies in five different categories. Rochester Chef, Dan Eaton of the YNN network’s “Cooking at Home” will present cooking demonstrations. The Grand Tasting will be held from 4-7p.m. at the new Visitor’s Center on Geneva’s lakefront.

The event moves to Hobart and William Smith Colleges’ Scandling Center on June 14. Greene and other wine world experts present programs that include a wine and food pairing seminar, three different cool-climate seminars and a five course luncheon prepared by Finger Lakes chefs and carefully matched with old and new world wines.

The Wine Symposium of the Finger Lakes and the Finger Lakes AVA Riesling Challenge are the collaborative effort of Geneva Growth and the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance, with support from the New York Wine and Culinary Center, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and the City of Geneva.

For tickets and program details, go to WineSymposiumFingerLakes.com.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

High Demand for Tasmanian Whisky Leads to Shortage

Sullivans Cove, Tasmania’s biggest selling whisky, is forced to limit sales of its popular French Oak variety in order to ensure continued availability for the next five years. Domestic demand for the French Oak, which was named as Australia’s best single malt by Whisky Magazine, has increased beyond supply levels and the distillery has been forced to limit exports of French Oak to provide for local demand.

The distillery’s French Oak variety is Australia’s highest awarded whisky, having scored 96.5/100 in whisky writer Jim Murray’s 2013 Whisky Bible and was also named Spirits Business magazine’s World Whisky Grand Master. Its winning run continues with this week’s announcement of the 2014 Wizards of Whisky results where it was named Australasian Single Malt Whisky of the Year and Australasian Whisky of the Year.

Australians are the biggest consumers of Sullivans Cove, accounting for more than 90% of all sales. This is a large turnaround from four years ago when the local market only made up around 40% of sales. The Tasmanian whisky industry is experiencing strong growth and this has been boosted by a $110,000 grant from the state government for the development of whisky trail.

Chief distiller Patrick Maguire said: “The industry has come a very long way over the past few years and this is exactly the situation that we hoped we would be in one day, we just didn’t expect it to happen this soon. It is a great problem to have and we are making all efforts to ensure that sufficient stock remains available for our Australian customers.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a whisky enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Spring44 Distilling and Big Head Todd Join Forces

Spring44, one of America’s fastest growing craft spirits brands, today announced a partnership with Colorado-based rock group Big Head Todd and The Monsters. Spring44 Honey Vodka was the perfect spirit to pair with Black Beehive, the band’s new album release date of February 4, 2014. Loveland, Colorado-based Spring44 Distilling will become the official Distillery of Big Head Todd and the Monsters during their upcoming concert tour stops in select cities, providing fans with the ultimate VIP experience.

Fans will also be challenged to create their own Black Beehive-themed cocktails, using Spring44 Honey Vodka, as well as other cocktail recipes using the Spring44 brands. Recipes will be submitted via Facebook for the chance to be part of the Spring44/Big Head Todd recipe booklet and to win Big Head Todd merchandise.

In conjunction with the tour, Sean Kenyon, Colorado based bartender and co-owner of Williams & Graham in Denver, created two signature cocktails featuring Spring44 Honey Vodka: The Black Beehive and the Big Head Mule. The cocktails will be featured at select tour venues as well as select Rock Bottom Breweries during the tour. Rock Bottom Brewery and local radio stations will team up to host lunchtime and Happy Hour events at select Rock Bottom locations.

The events will feature Q&A sessions with the band, Black Beehive-themed drinks specials, CD giveaways, exclusive download opportunities and chances to win Big Head Todd merchandise, all coinciding with the band’s concert tour dates. To further promote the release of Black Beehive, all 38 Rock Bottom Brewery locations will play tracks from the new album in-store for fans to enjoy. For a full list of events and updates, please visit RockBottom.com.

“Spring44 is thrilled to be a part of Big Head Todd and the Monsters new album and concert tour. ” said Spring44 CEO Jeff Lindauer. “We are proud to support one of Colorado’s best bands and look forward to symbiotically growing both of our fan bases.”

Abijack Management, a leader in partnership development, sponsorship, event marketing, artist relations and tour activation, is organizing the co-branded efforts. “We’re really proud of the work we’ve done with Big Head Todd and The Monsters so far,” said Brett Palmer, CEO of AbiJack Management. “Big Head Todd, Rock Bottom Brewery and Spring44 are premier brands with strong fan bases, and each also has strong ties to the state of Colorado, so it made perfect sense to bring them all together. We’re truly excited to be working with all of them.”

“We’re really psyched about the release of Black Beehive and this year’s concert tour, and we think that these new partnerships with Rock Bottom and Spring44 are a great way to help spread the word,” said Todd Park Mohr, lead singer of Big Head Todd and The Monsters. “Our goal is to bring our music right to our fan base in an exciting way, and our fans are really going to love all that we have in store for them. And with AbiJack leading the way, we know these events and promotions are going to be a huge success and will really help us promote the album and the tour.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Enjoy the Slow Life In France with a Relaxing and Delicious Week in Gascony

Worn out by the rat race? Need to take a break from the insanity of the modern world? Then join Annie Jacquet-Bentley, founder of l’Ecole des Chefs, in her restored farmhouse in Gascony, France, for the perfect wellness retreat and culinary vacation.

Annie will share her passion for cooking and eating healthfully, as well as her strong commitment to living The Slow Life. In addition to hands-on cooking classes and meals shared at Annie’s table, enjoy visits to open-air markets and local restaurants; excursions to explore the region; wine tastings; and all-around pampering, including relaxation techniques, spa treatments, and massages.

Groups are limited to three people to ensure individualized attention. Sessions begin in the spring of 2014 and are priced at an all-inclusive fee of $3,750. (Travel costs are not included.)

Please visit Annie’s website at SlowLifeInFrance.com for details.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Stochasticity Project Launches with Grapefruit Slam IPA

This is the first official transmission from the headquarters of the Stochasticity Project, a first-of-its-kind, broad-scale experiment exploring the limits of imagination and the concept of randomness through the craft of brewing. On February 10, the first beer to be developed via the Stochasticity Project will arrive on store shelves throughout the United States. The inaugural beer from the project, Grapefruit Slam IPA, is a big-bodied, yet refreshing India pale ale marrying hand-zested grapefruit peel with the inherent citrusy bitterness of Centennial hops from the fertile bines of Washington state.

A one-time offering available on draft and in 22-ounce bottles, Stochasticity Project Grapefruit Slam IPA ushers in what, according to years of studies and supporting data, will be the next enthralling chapter in the history of American craft brewing.

Dry, earthily bitter and packed with the character of sun-kissed fruit, Stochasticity Project Grapefruit Slam IPA seems natural in its cohesive perfection, but it is a beer birthed from iterations both numerous and varied. Though new to the world at large, the fermentation engineers at the helm of the Stochasticity Project’s brewing laboratory and research facility have been at work for years, testing ale and lager recipes, calling on centuries-old techniques and implementing modern processes. These recipes will satisfy palates of nth degree beer nerds searching for the ultimate in flavors and innovations from the craft brewing revolution.

Wide-ranging information on Stochasticity Project Grapefruit Slam IPA and several beers which will be released in its wake can be found at Stochasticity.com. Casual beer imbibers should be forewarned that this is not a forum for passive enthusiasts.

What awaits at the Stochasticity Project’s official site is an exploration behind the science of beer, and cutting edge theories and ideas governing the direction of this ongoing program. A visit, no matter how brief, is certain to expand one’s knowledge and understanding of the brewing process, rendering it impossible to see beer the same way ever again. But that is one of the many, big-picture, big-reward ambitions of the Stochasticity Project.

This ambitious undertaking starts today with the release of Grapefruit Slam IPA, descending on this nation like a lupulin-laced, banner-hoisting standard bearer for the new age of craft beer.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a beer enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Sculptor Anthony Dallmann-Jones Pioneers Light Ray Photography

Artist, professor, and former science teacher, Anthony Dallmann-Jones, today announced the development of a new art form – light ray photography. Harnessing the beauty of the colors produced by his signature Light Sculptures, Dallmann-Jones uses photography to capture the resulting imagery.

“I was working in my studio on a Light Sculpture – laid out on my work table in the dark – and suddenly it dawned on me,” says Dallmann-Jones of the circumstances surrounding his discovery. “Just tiny background segments of the Light Sculptures produced naturally beautiful variations of color that needed no alteration whatsoever. They make for gorgeous photography in and of themselves.”

The artist became hooked, and temporarily abandoned his 20-foot-long light sculptures to spend days experimenting with new arrangements. He begins the process by setting up specially-constructed dichroic glass (originally designed by NASA for spacecraft windows), lead crystals, and other light-splitting materials. Using a tiny LED spotlight he creates brilliant rays of light in a spectrum of colors on a white background, and is able to control them by tweaking the angling and spacing of the glass pieces. He then takes up to a hundred digital close-up pictures between 3x5 and 4x6 inches in area, all in an effort to capture one or two perfect brilliant photographs.

“It’s like gem hunting,” Dallmann-Jones points out, “because another thing that makes this work so remarkable is that I never alter the coloring in the digital photographs. What the viewer is seeing is exactly what I saw through my Canon Rebel lens.”

Once his photos are selected, Dallmann-Jones enlarges them up to 30x40 inches. Through the use of clever cropping, the artist creates a unique kaleidoscope of colors captured in an innovative way. He uses a service that professionally frames the light ray photographs, or has them developed on canvas and then stretched. Recently, he has also had the images embedded in crystal-clear acrylic glass that furnishes an ultra-modern appearance with smooth, beveled edges that require no frame. In addition, the artist has been experimenting with printing onto metal surfaces to produce a shellac-like metallic sheen.

“The significance of this has yet to set in, but this just might become my major medium,” says Dallmann-Jones. “It was an accident, but when I look back I realize that many of my most successful art ventures began with an accident; a fumbling into the end zone that I never counted on, planned for, or saw coming. It was suddenly just there, the elusive football. I fell on it – touchdown!”

About Anthony Dallmann-Jones

Anthony Dallmann-Jones is a visionary artist, educator, and former science teacher whose deep interest in the abstract gave way to the creation of his signature Light Sculptures – a project that has evolved into a ten-year labor of love. More information on the artist and a gallery of his work is viewable at SculptedLights.com.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a tequila enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Love Italian Style with Romance by Rail

“There’s something about the sound of a train that’s very romantic and nostalgic and hopeful,” said world renowned musician Paul Simon. ItaliaRail agrees and offers three enchanting rail destinations sure to inspire Amore.

1. Charming Cinque Terre

The five idyllic villages that make up the area known as Cinque Terre – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, are spread over the northeastern mountains of Italy, overlooking the cerulean waters of the Mediterranean Sea. With steep, winding staircases and secret paths that lead to heavenly views, Cinque Terre is a paramour’s paradise. Lover’s Lane or Via dell’Amore, between Riomaggiore and Manarola, is a short 30-minute walk along a wooden bridge path right on the ocean. If you choose to venture farther, the Cinque Terre National Park offers longer hiking paths between each town. Stop along the way to enjoy a glass of wine and a delicious meal at any of the quaint seaside cafes. If you don’t want to hike the whole way, hop on the regional train that travels between, and stops in each village.

By Train : From Rome, take the high­speed train to La Spezia, about a 3 1⁄2 hour trip with fares starting at $27. From Florence, regional trains run to La Spezia, which take about 2 1⁄2 hours. From La Spezia, take the regional train to any of the towns of Cinque Terre. This trip is about 10 – 20 minutes depending on which town you stay in and the fare is only $3 - $5.

2. Heavenly Fiesole

Five miles northeast of Florence, sits the dreamy town of Fiesole. It’s the perfect romantic day trip from Florence by train or bike. In ancient times, Fiesole was the center of a school for priests, or augurs, who relied on signs from nature to forecast intentions from the heavens. This was the start of a strong religious tradition in Fiesole evident today by the many monasteries, churches and cathedrals that inhabit the town. Fiesole is also home to the Bandini Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of religious artifacts dating back to the 12th century. Spend the day wandering through these hallowed, theistic monuments and museums, then enjoy a divine Italian lunch in an intimate ristorante overlooking the spectacular city of Florence.

By Train : From Rome or Venice take the high­speed train to Florence with fares starting at $27. From Florence you can take a regional train to Fiesole. It’s a ten to twelve minute ride and costs only $3.

3. Romantic Emilia-Romagna

There’s nothing more romantic than staying in a castle for a night or two, and from Bologna you can venture out by regional train to the Emilia-Romagna area, which is chock­full of castelli to choose from. Dating back centuries, many of these regal manors have been converted into hotels that include five-star restaurants and spas. Spend the day touring the Castelli del Ducato di Parma e Piacenza (castles of Parma and Piacenza). Start with the Castle of Torrechiara, in Parma, built between 1448 –1460. Here you can get a tourist map that provides information on the 19 castles in the area - what to see and how to get to them. At night, enjoy a delicious Italian meal fit for a king or queen and then settle in for a royal slumber in your very own castle.

By Train: Take a high­speed train from Rome to Bologna and be there in just over two hours. Fares begin at $27. From Bologna take a regional train to the city or town of your choice.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Ballantine’s Announces Launch of New Spirit Drink Named Brasil

Ballantine’s, the world’s No. 2 Scotch whisky, has today announced the launch of Ballantine’s Brasil; a brand new spirit drink made with Scotch whisky selectively cask steeped with Brazilian lime peel.

The new spirit drink is the latest addition to the Ballantine’s portfolio, and represents an innovative fusion of the traditions of Scotland with the passion of Brazil. Featuring a delicate combination of stimulating citrus complemented perfectly with a smooth touch of vanilla, the taste is both smooth and consistent, with the sweet and creamy flavours of Scotch perfectly balancing the refreshing lime. Ballantine’s has developed a delicious signature serve for Ballantine’s Brasil, the ‘Highland Samba’, which mixes Ballantine’s Brasil and lemonade, served over ice and topped with two freshly cut slices of lime.

Four more enticing serves have also been created; the ‘Glen Rio’, which fuses Ballantine’s Brasil with a generous helping of apple juice, the ‘Flower O’Brasil’, which mixes the spirit drink with freshly squeezed lime and elderflower, the ‘Caledinho’, which combines Ballantine’s Brasil with freshly squeezed lime mixed with crushed sugar, and the ‘Glen Coco’, which builds on the Caledinho by adding a touch of coconut.

Peter Moore, Global Brand Director for Ballantine’s, said: “There is a huge opportunity for spirit drinks that are made with whisky, as it’s an exceptionally dynamic new category that is already demonstrating a strong rate of growth. Ballantine’s Brasil is a venture into new territory for us, but we’re excited to have a product that can take advantage of this opportunity and one that can truly inspire those who have not yet found their perfect way to enjoy a Scotch whisky drink. We hope that Ballantine’s Brasil will excite a new generation of consumers with the combination of Scottish authenticity and Brazilian passion!”

Ballantine’s Brasil will be rolling out in key markets around the world throughout 2014, including Brazil and France, with an RRP of approximately €14.00 (currency dependent). More information can be found at www.mixitwithbrasil.com, where customers can also view a series of tutorials on how they can ‘Mix it with Brasil’ to create their own favourite Ballantine’s Brasil cocktails.

Tasting Notes

Nose – A balance of rich vanilla and sweet, authentic Brazilian lime; a complex fusion of Scotch whisky, lime and natural vanilla.

Taste – Soft and sweet, with a perfect balance of refreshing lime and smooth vanilla. Complementing this perfectly are the delicate sweet and creamy signature flavours of Scotch.

Finish – Refreshing lime tang with a soft dry finish.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a whisky enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Kuba Ka Celebrates Debut of 2014 Apollo Calendar at The Beverly Hills Hotel

Hosted by his close friend and actress Vikki Lizzi, Kuba unveiled the new Apollo Calendar at the posh Beverly Hills Hotel. Guests included Christina Fulton, Christina De Rosa, Damon Epps known for Flavor of Love and America's Got Talent, producer of Kuba's forthcoming television show and others.

"It was a magical night at a very special place for me - The Beverly Hills Hotel, with my dearest friends,” says Kuba. “I was very honored to celebrate my first ever calendar for the prestigious - Apollo Male Models.”

The private celebration included the 60th birthday of his mom, attorney/manager Tina Trozzo. Guests dined on champagne and cake and received free copies of the new calendar. The hotel was the first home for many months for the entertainer and remains one of his favorite hideaways. Kuba will be releasing his newest single, “Here We Go” and begin production of his television show this spring.

About Kuba Ka

Critics have dubbed Kuba Ka as a “stage-animal” – a moniker given to the budding star whose known for his high-octane live performances. “From my very early childhood, I felt the force of nature to become the entertainer. That’s who I am – driven by all parts of me,” says Kuba. “The stage is my life, show is my world!” As a teen, Kuba was featured in the Polish edition of ELLE magazine and has been highlighted throughout his native country of Poland for his contribution to the arts.

Discovered by the late Frank Dileo, one-time manager of the late Michael Jackson, Kuba is gearing up for his formal US debut. First, a largely anticipated album that includes the hot dance song, “Physical Attraction” and the popular club track “In The Streets” which features the work of four-time Grammy nominated producer and re-mixer Steve “Silk” Hurley. With the new album, “King of the Night” forthcoming, Kuba continues to stay busy with upcoming feature films, fitness modeling, and unveiling plans for his non-profit organization.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The Broadmoor Named #1 Golf Resort in North America by Golf Magazine Readers

The Broadmoor is proud to announce that the property has been named “#1 Golf Resort in North America” by Golf magazine readers.

With more than 8,000 readers voting on four criteria, including Golf, Lodging, Food & Drink, and Service, The Broadmoor secured a “runaway win” to the #1 position, with readers sighting impressive property-wide renovations, as well as ranking The Broadmoor as the leader in the Service, Lodging, and Food & Drink categories.

The award follows an impressive year of national recognition for The Broadmoor’s golf program. Last year Links magazine named The Broadmoor one of the “25 Best Golf Resorts in the World,” while The Broadmoor’s East Course was recognized by Colorado Avid Golfer “Reader and Editor’s Choice Awards” for “Best Resort Course,” and “Best Course Conditions.” Also in 2013 The Broadmoor was also named one of the “Global Ten” resort golf operations in the world in Gary Galyean’s Golf Letter and received a Platinum Award from AGM (Associated Golf Merchandisers).

“The accolades for The Broadmoor’s golf program are a testament to our dedication to create an exceptional experience for our guests,” says Russ Miller, Director of Golf. “With three championship courses to choose from, along with world-class pros, golf at The Broadmoor is unparelleled.”

The Broadmoor has three distinct courses, the East Course, West Course, and Mountain Course. The Broadmoor’s championship East and West courses, designed by Donald Ross and Robert Trent Jones Sr., offer scenic and challenging play for golfers of all handicaps. The East Course is known for its wide, tree-lined fairways and expansive greens, while the West Course offers rolling fairways and steeply-angled greens. The Mountain Course by Nicklaus Design adds an additional 18 challenging holes, large greens and captivating mountain views, ideal for a range of skill levels.

The Golf Club also features a full-service Pro Shop, summer caddie program and electric carts and to date, The Broadmoor has hosted 22 major championships including seven PGA championships.

In addition to golf, The Broadmoor is home to over fifteen on-property dining options, including the Five-Star Five-Diamond Penrose Room, the award-winning Spa at The Broadmoor, and tennis. Indoor activities include Play at The Broadmoor, with six lanes of bowling, while outdoor adventures comprise of horseback riding, hiking, fly fishing, and more.

For more information on Golf at The Broadmoor, please visit Broadmoor.com or call 866.837.9520.

About The Broadmoor

Opened in 1918, The Broadmoor is situated at the gateway to the Colorado Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs with more than 60 flights into Colorado Springs Airport by Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta and United. The resort encompasses 3,000 acres with three championship golf courses, and more than 770 rooms and suites, including the new Cottage suites. Amenities include an award-winning spa and fitness center, nationally recognized tennis program, 26 retail boutiques and 19 restaurants, cafes and lounges.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Kermit the Hop Debuts as Bison Brewing's First-Ever Double IPA

It isn’t always easy being green. Sexy organic hops haven’t always been easy to come by—a challenge that Bison Brewing has been fighting for over ten years.

But, the organic hop landscape has changed dramatically since Bison received its organic certification in 2003. The organic hop quality and variety available is the best its ever been. This year, Bison was able to contract a huge allocation of organic Simcoe®, finally allowing Daniel Del Grande, Bison’s owner and brewmaster, to brew his first-ever Double IPA using 100% organic hops.

“Kermit The Hop is more than just a beer to me,” explains Del Grande. “It celebrates the huge strides that have been taken by organic hop farmers in reaction to organic brewers in the last decade.”

With over 3 pounds of hops per barrel, Kermit The Hop is super aromatic and crisp with bright flavors of citrus and pine. Tongue-tingling bitter, Kermit The Hop pleasantly numbs the gums, finishing clean and ultra dry. Boasting over 100 IBUs, Kermit The Hop is one of the hoppiest, if not the hoppiest, organic beers ever brewed.

“The rest of the craft beer world is crying about a hop shortage and, for the first time ever, I’m not. It’s incredibly refreshing,” says Del Grande.

Kermit the Hop will make its grand debut this evening at the San Francisco Beer Week Opening Gala Celebration—and it just might be the freshest beer there. “We are kegging Kermit first thing this morning. The beer will literally be going from tank to keg to festival floor.” Del Grande boasts, “It doesn’t get much fresher than that.”

Bison will also be making its first-ever appearance at the 14th Annual Double IPA Festival on Saturday where, yet again, Kermit the Hop might be the freshest beer on tap. For more information about Kermit the Hop and for a full list of Bison’s beer week events, contact Ashley@bisonbrew.com

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a beer enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Top Five Things to Do in New York City this February

“After the Super Bowl, travelers may be wondering about fun things to do in New York City for the rest of the month,” Jamie Carr, editor of NYCTourist.com, says, “There are so many events happening constantly, and seeing as how NYC has become a winter wonderland, this February is a great time to explore the beautiful city!”

1 - Fashion Week

Fashion’s biggest night is headed to New York City this month, and while it may prove impossible for guests to snag a seat at one of the runway shows, that doesn’t mean travelers can’t enjoy Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Guests can celebrate by hitting some of New York City’s best shopping stops, like the four B’s (Barney’s, Bloomingdales, Bergdorf, and Bendel’s)! Another great, unique shop in New York City is Jutta Neumann, where all of the leather handbags are handcrafted on site in her studio! Guests shouldn’t skip their souvenirs - check out Grand Slam New York in Times Square for everything NYC.

2 - Hot Chocolate Festival

For the entire month of February, City Bakery hosts a Hot Chocolate festival offering different types of hot cocoas every day! Guests can grab a hot cup of cinnamon, banana peel, or rum raisin hot chocolate to keep you warm for your trek through the beautiful Central Park, or the Revolutionary Era Walking Tour, where guests can see many of NYC’s historical landmarks and learn about American History.

3 - Top of the Rock

One of the most popular Manhattan landmarks, the Top of the Rock offers the arguably best views of New York City. Guests can enjoy the beautiful New York City sunset with a warm cup of coffee, and should not forget their cameras!

4 - Food Tour

For travelers who’d like to take a trip off the beaten path, we suggest trying one of the Foods of New York Tours. Travelers can explore the snowy streets of NYC and excite their taste buds with the many different foods from a variety of cultures. There’s a food tour for every appetite and budget, so check out their website for more tours and information.

5 - Visit Ground Zero

A visit to Ground Zero is a given for any traveler to NYC. One of the best museums in NYC given its moving photographs of the 9/11 relief effort, The Ground Zero Museum Workshop gives guests the opportunity to tangibly connect with the tragedy. Guests can actually pick up and hold World Trade Center steel and window glass. Travelers can view the touching photographs taken of the 11 month relief effort and know the admission price is going for a good cause - a portion of all ticket sales go to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and FDNY Firefighter Joe Graffagnino Children’s Fund.

Where to stay in New York in February

After wandering the snowy streets of NYC, travelers will want a warm place to sleep! The Crowne Plaza in Times Square is a great option as it is conveniently located in Times Square, and one of the most famous hotels in Manhattan. The Hotel Wolcott is another fantastic, conveniently located hotel in New York, as travelers can indulge in luxury without paying a hefty price tag.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a tequila enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Whisky Birmingham 2014 Set for Saturday March 1st

Whisky Birmingham 2014 – the city’s only large-scale whisky festival – returns on March 1st bringing major whisky brands and local collaborations to canal-side venue The Bond in Digbeth.

Some of the biggest names in the whisky industry, including Morrison Bowmore, Gordon & MacPhail, BenRiach and Glendronach are the latest to sign-up for this special one-day celebration of whisky. The Midlands’ nearest distiller, Penderyn, has also confirmed.

Hosted by The Birmingham Whisky Club, Whisky Birmingham will also continue its tradition of collaborating with the cream of the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. Soul Food Project returns with their signature mouth-watering Deep South inspired cuisine, alongside Pop-Up Dosa, who will be serving up authentic Keralan street food. Local whisky bar The Victoria will again be hosting an onsite ‘Afterhours Speakeasy’ at the venue, ending the festival with live music and whisky cocktails.

Masterclasses on offer will see whisky paired with artisan produce including cheese, chocolate and cigars. Birmingham-based cheesemongers Curds & Whey and Kneals Chocolates join the festival line-up for the first time for special whisky-themed tasting sessions, while global cigar importers Hunters & Frankau return for a Cuban cigar and whisky masterclass. Local bloggers Living Room Whisky will be reprising their popular ‘bloggers’ choice’ stand.

Over 250 people attended last year’s festival at unique exhibition space The Bond. Festival-goers in 2014 can expect a much bigger event expert tasting advice from some of the whisky world’s most celebrated distillers, brand owners and bottlers. Retail will be provided by Birmingham’s arm of The Whisky Shop as well as Hard to Find Whisky.

Amy Seton, festival organiser and founder of The Birmingham Whisky Club, commented: “We were truly bowled over by the success of last year’s festival. It’s clear that Birmingham residents know and love their whisky, which is why we are growing the 2014 event to include more exciting and also more unusual brands and distillers.”

She added: ““As always, we welcome anyone at our events who has an interest in whisky – whether you’re an expert or a novice – there will be something for you. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about this historic drink in a fun, informal and sociable environment.”

Tickets for Whisky Birmingham 2014 are on sale now and cost £25 for entry into the main festival room and all whisky. Masterclasses, Speakeasy and food require an additional ticket/cost. For further information and to book, please see Twitter @TheWhiskyMiss or TheBirminghamWhiskyClub.co.uk.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a whisky enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Five Helpful Tips to Ensure A Memorable Napa Valley Vacation

TourVin.net, a Napa Valley concierge service specializing in creating custom winery tours based on your individual preferences, would like to offer 5 tips for anyone preparing to plan their next trip to the wine country. The wine tasting, dining, lodging accommodations and unique activities available in Napa are endless. Incorporating the following tips, or the expertise of a professional like Tour Vin, will help you create an unforgettable vacation experience.

Whether you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, a grape nut or just enjoy an occasional glass with dinner many consider Napa Valley to be the Holy Grail of wine production in the United States. Here is a bucket list checkmark that needs to be penned in before one takes the eternal afternoon nap. With that being said, the "Tour Vin", Napa Valley Concierge, would like to share with you 5 tips to consider when visiting Napa Valley.

1. Visit during high season

The right time to visit Napa depends on when you can visit and what activities you plan on participating in, but to industry professionals the best time to visit is the Fall. September to October is "Crush" time when the grapes are harvested. And in November the wineries are in full scale production, the weather is nice, the crowds dwindle and rates drop. The vineyards swing into full production mode and are full of action. The Summer months are enjoyable but draw the largest crowds especially on the weekends when day trippers from the “Bay area” compete with overnight visitors. Plan your trip in advance and your Napa Valley vacation will be enjoyable whenever you choose to visit.

2. Take advantage of deals

Most wineries charge between $25 and $50 per person, depending on the wines and food pairings. With that being said there are plenty of deals available to visitors . Many wineries offer free two-for-one coupons, or a % off of wine purchases, buy 2 bottles get one free or free vineyard tours. So do your research. A visit to Napa Valley should be a memorable experience for everyone that does not have to break the bank. Plan your trip accordingly and let Tour Vin help do your research in advance.

3. Choose centrally located lodging accommodations

Whether you're seeking a hotel close to night life and dining, or a remote vineyard setting, finding the perfect place to stay can be a daunting task for newcomers. It’s a 45 minute ride between the town of Napa in the south and Calistoga in the north. You can find a multitude of lodging options in this area but choosing one that is close to the wineries you are visiting and activities you are participating in is recommended. You will have more fun if you match where you stay to your plans and preferences. The towns of Napa, Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga are all great locations with many lodging options to consider depending on the activities you have planned. Consulting with a concierge service is a great idea when planning your itinerary.

4. Stick to your itinerary

It's not called the Napa Valley Raceway! It is easy to get excited about the magnitude of offerings available to you when visiting the wine country. With so many options available to you it is difficult not to feel like a kid in a candy shop. For many visitors their vacation becomes one of quantity not quality. "On our first day we hit 5 wineries before noon, when do the rest of them close?” The Tour Vin suggests that "you take time to smell the grapes (roses), the Napa valley experience should not be a race". Plan your trip accordingly and leave time in between activities that allow for the occasional detour and try to relax. A well planned trip can be very rewarding.

5. Take advantage of the many unique activities Napa Valley has to offer

Yes, Napa produces world class wines that need to be explored but there are a multitude of other unique activities visitors can enjoy. Your Napa Valley vacation should be a memorable experience. Why not take a day off from wine tasting and enjoy some of the other activities Napa Valley has to offer? From hot air balloon rides, cycling tours, golf, tennis and hiking to live music and nightlife, culinary adventures, spas, galleries and shopping.

When planning your next Napa Valley Vacation remember to follow these 5 tips to ensure that your Napa experience is a memorable one. Tour Vin states that "The wine country is a beautiful place that begs to be explored and has something for everyone and every budget.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The LEGO Movie Wins Truly Moving Picture Award

“The LEGO Movie,” from Warner Bros. Pictures, Village Roadshow Pictures and LEGO System A/S, has been recognized with the Truly Moving Picture Award by nonprofit arts organization Heartland Truly Moving Pictures.

"The Truly Moving Picture Award jury has recognized 'The LEGO Movie' for its ability to inspire moviegoers of all ages," said Tim Irwin, Heartland's artistic director. "Combining a unique premise with humor and an engaging cast of characters, the film presents a great message for its viewers."

The first full-length theatrical LEGO adventure, “The LEGO Movie” opens in theaters on February 7, 2014 and stars Chris Pratt, Will Ferrell, Elizabeth Banks, Will Arnett, Nick Offerman, Alison Brie and Charlie Day, with Liam Neeson and Morgan Freeman.

Its original 3D computer animated story follows Emmet, an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the most extraordinary person and the key to saving the world. He is drafted into a fellowship of strangers on an epic quest to stop an evil tyrant, a journey for which Emmet is hopelessly and hilariously underprepared.

"The LEGO Movie” was directed by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller, who also also wrote the screenplay, from a story by Dan Hageman & Kevin Hageman and Phil Lord & Christopher Miller, based on LEGO construction toys. It was produced by Dan Lin and Roy Lee, with executive producers Jill Wilfert, Matthew Ashton, Kathleen Fleming, Allison Abbate, Zareh Nalbandian, Jon Burton, Benjamin Melniker, Michael E. Uslan, Seanne Winslow, Matt Skiena and Bruce Berman; and co-producer John Powers Middleton.

The filmmaking team includes cinematographer Pablo Plaisted, production designer Grant Freckelton, editors David Burrows and Chris McKay, and composer Mark Mothersbaugh. Chris McKay also served as animation co-director. Learn more at TheLEGOMovie.com.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Present Moment Retreat a Hidden Gem on the Mexican Riviera

Present Moment Retreat today announced that it has been named as a winner of the Top Small Hotels Traveler’s Choice category in the 2014 Travelers’ Choice® awards for the 3rd consecutive year. In the 12th year of the awards, the world’s most outstanding properties were identified in the categories of Top Hotels, Bargain, B&Bs and Inns, Family, Luxury, Romance, and Small Hotels. Travelers’ Choice award winners were determined based on the reviews and opinions of millions of TripAdvisor travelers around the globe.

Present Moment Retreat is a boutique hotel, yoga retreat, wellness spa and gourmet restaurant in Troncones Beach, Mexico. It was co-founded by Minneapolis residents CJ Ananda Page and Thomas William Morisette in 2005. Present Moment specializes in Yoga, Meditation, Qigong, Dance & Healing Arts.

“It’s an incredible honor to have been recognized and included in such an elite group of boutique hotels,” said CJ Ananda Page, a Minneapolis native and co-owner of Present Moment. “I have to pass the credit on to our amazing staff and the natural beauty of Troncones Beach. Nine years ago the dream began when we packed up a U-Haul and headed south. The journey has been magical; every breath has been a continuation of that dream.”

“We’re excited to recognize the world’s best properties, based on the opinions of those who know them best – the millions of travelers around the globe who come to TripAdvisor to share their experiences,” said Barbara Messing, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. “For those seeking inspiration for their 2014 travel planning, this list of spectacular accommodations that received 2014 Travelers’ Choice awards is a perfect place to start.”

For Present Moment reviews, click here.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Indeed Brewing Company Releases Burr Grinder Coffee Ale

Indeed Brewing Company will release its 2014 Burr Grinder Coffee Ale at Bryant Lake Bowl on Saturday, February 15 when doors open at 8 am. “We wanted to do something a little different for the release of this beer,” said Indeed Brewing co-founder Rachel Anderson. “Burr Grinder delivers an intense coffee punch, so we thought a breakfast release was the perfect introduction.”

Burr Grinder is a collaborative beer created by Indeed Brewing Head Brewer Josh Bischoff and Dogwood Coffee. It is a unique take on a coffee ale, using ground coffee in the brew kettle, in addition to being topped with concentrated cold-press at the end of the brewing process.

Following the release event at Bryant Lake Bowl, Burr Grinder will be available on draft and in 750 ML bottles the week of February 17. Burr Grinder will make its debut at the Indeed Brewing Company taproom on Thursday, February 20.

“We are very happy to be working with our Northeast neighbors at Dogwood Coffee on Burr Grinder for the second year,” said Indeed Brewing co-founder Nathan Berndt. “There are a lot of early mornings in brewing, so coffee is a big part of our lives. Dogwood brews some of the best coffee around, and we pride ourselves in using the best possible ingredients in our beer.”

“It was great working with Indeed Brewing on Burr Grinder again,” said Stephanie Ratanas, Coffee Buyer for Dogwood Coffee. “We chose coffees that we thought would work well for the brewing process as well as the cold brew element that gets added at the end, then we let Indeed do their thing. I’m looking forward to tasting the results from this year.”

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a beer enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Stags Leap District Celebrates 25 Years as the Birthplace of Iconic American Cabernet Sauvignon

Stags Leap District, the birthplace of iconic American Cabernet Sauvignon, today announced that 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of this world class region as one of the first sub American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in the Napa Valley. Recognized as an official AVA in 1989 by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), the Stags Leap District was the first sub-AVA to be defined completely by soil, climate and natural barriers. Its AVA status and distinctive terroir are a result of the combination of rolling hills, cooling wind, loam and clay soils, and the west-facing range of the Vaca Mountains.

The Stags Leap District is the smallest producing Napa AVA by acreage, and wines from this region remain limited, highly allocated and collected. Approximately 90% of the 1,200 acres currently planted to grapevines in the district are Cabernet Sauvignon or other Bordeaux varietals.

"The Stags Leap District produces some very age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines," said Kelli White, Sommelier at PRESS Restaurant in St. Helena. "The region is truly a place of distinction. The geography of Stags Leap District makes it different than any other place in the Napa Valley and results in the seductive, soft tannins for which Stags Leap District wines are highly regarded."

While 2014 marks the silver anniversary for the AVA; Stags Leap District has been a grape-growing region since the mid-1800’s. The first Cabernet Sauvignon vines were planted in 1961 by pioneer Nathan Fay. His fruit was in high demand and sourced by winemakers throughout the valley in the early 1970’s. In 1976, the famed Tasting of Paris catapulted the region into the global spotlight when French judges awarded a 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars first place over legendary Bordeaux producers.

Ten years later, when the same wines were tasted blind a second time, top honors again went to a Stags Leap District wine, the 1972 Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, Stags Leap District is represented by one of only two American wines in the Smithsonian National Museum of History.

"The beauty and lushness of the wines produced in this region were around long before Stags Leap District was named an AVA," said Doug Shafer, President of Shafer Vineyards. "It was a privilege to be here in the early days when my dad, John Shafer, helped organize our neighbors to pursue official recognition. Over the past 25 years the appellation has continued to evolve and is now widely recognized as a special site for world-class wines. Even so, it really feels like we're just getting started."

"Stags Leap District was the first area to be recognized for its world-class American Cabernet Sauvignon and really was the birthplace of America’s Cabernet culture," said Michael Beaulac, General Manager and Winemaker at Pine Ridge Vineyards and President of the Stags Leap District Winegrowers Association. "Stags Leap District is one of only a handful of Napa Valley appellations that matter and the producers in this region continue to be visionaries committed to crafting the best quality wines."

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a wine enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.