Third time’s the charm. Let’s help Al Horford get into the 2013 NBA All Star Game for the third time in his NBA career. Al is not only a two-time All Star, but he has been a participant in All Star Weekend every year but last (due to injury). In his Rookie year, Al was selected to participate in the Rookies vs. Sophomore Game* and the following year he was selected again but this time to represent the Sophomores. His third and fourth year in the NBA he was selected by the coaches to play in the NBA All Star Game as a back up reserve. In 2011, Al, alongside Steve Smith and Coco Miller, lead Team Atlanta to victory winning the NBA All Star Weekend Shooting Stars Challenge.
The 2013 All Star Weekend will be hosted in Houston Texas from February 15th to 17th. This year, let’s get Al voted into the All Star Game as a Starter! The NBA has made a few voting changes for the 2013 All Star Game. There’s no longer a Center position, instead there are 3 Forward/Front Court positions that you can vote for. Also, the NBA has introduced a few new ways that you can vote (Twitter, Facebook and NBA Game Time App). Listed below are all the ways that you can vote.
1. Online
2. Text “Horford” to 69622
3. Twitter Example: “I want to vote for Al Horford to be in the @NBAAllStar Game because… #NBABallot”
4. NBA Facebook App
5. NBA Game Time App
6. In Arena Voting ballots are available at all NBA Arenas
7. Mobile Web http://m.nba.com on your cell phone
*Now re-branded as the Rising Stars Challenge
4 months after tearing his left pectoral muscle in a game against the Indiana Pacers, Al Horford has returned to the court. Earlier today, the Hawks announced that Al Horford was a game time decision for game 4 against the Boston Celtics. Al came off the bench to contribute 12 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 assist, ultimately the Hawks lost to the Celtics however. The Hawks are now down 3-1 in the first round of the playoffs, but they have Al and Josh Smith back to compete against the Celtics big men.
Welcome back Al.
On Monday February 27th the Atlanta Sports Council held it’s 7th Annual Atlanta Sports Awards at the Fox Theatre. Al Horford won the “Sports Person of the Year” award for all of his hard work on the court as well as all the work he has done in the community this last year and through out his NBA career. While recent injury has prevented Al from contributing to the Hawks physically, he’s often seen cheering them on from the bench and contributing to his local and global community. Al Horford was also a finalist for the “Professional Athlete of the Year” award but was edged out by Atlanta Braves closer,Craig Kimbrel. The Atlanta Hawks Family was well represented at this year’s award with Dominique Wilkins receiving an award as well. Zaza Pachulia and Marvin Williams were also present at the Awards ceremony with Zaza presenting the Atlanta Dream with the ”Team Of The Year” award.
Per Atlanta Journal Constitution ”The award is given annually to a person who has made a positive impact in sports and their community. Horford has twice received the NBA Community Assist Award, as well as the Jason Collier Memorial Trophy from his team, for his work helping others. Those activities include feeding the homeless at City of Refuge, the NBA Cares Day of Service in 2011, his work with the University of Florida Alumni’s philanthropic efforts, assisting earthquake relief efforts in Japan, hosting summer basketball camps and visiting children and their families at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. He has judged essay contests to assist the NBA’s Read to Achieve program and worked with anti-bullying campaigns.”
Dominique Wilkins was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award, joining the likes of Hank Aaron, Ted Turner, Bobby Cox and other Atlanta legends. Per Atlanta Business Chronicle “Currently, Wilkins is the Hawks vice president of basketball, a Hawks television analyst for Fox Sports South and is involved with local and national charities such as Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, Special Olympics, Muscular Dystrophy Association and American Lung Association.” Dominique is truly the epitome of a Hawks Legend, Atlanta Legend and an all around deserving recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
UPDATE: As of the beginning of March, Al has begun Rehab on his shoulder and working on conditioning.
Atlanta Hawks Center, Al Horford, will be out for 3-4 months while he heals from a Torn Left Pectoral Muscle injury suffered on January 11th against the Indiana Pacers.
Al Horford was injured about 6 minutes into the 1st quarter of the game last night against the Pacers. Al was seen grimacing in pain on the court shortly after he was knocked down by Roy Hibbert, who blocked Al’s two layup attempts. (pictured above) Al was taken to the back where the Pacers medical staff evaluated him and it was initially said that he had a shoulder strain. MRI’s last night showed that nothing was broken. Earlier today Al was evaluated by the Hawks medical staff and they concluded that he had a Torn Left Pectoral Muscle. Al will miss the remainder of the regular season at this point, due to the shortened season 3-4 months will put us about about April/May when they season ends.
UPDATED: Al Horford will be ineligible to play in any All Star Weekend Festivities due to injury. Thank you to everyone who voted for him.
The NBA released the 2012 All Star Ballot earlier today. The 2012 All Star Game will be held on February 24th-26th in Orlando, Florida. With only 27 days left to vote, I want to encourage you all to take the time to vote for Al Horford (Atlanta – Eastern Conference – Center Position). You have several ways to vote:
1. Online/En Linea - http://www.nba.com/ASB http://www.nba.com/allstar/2012/asb/intl/ballot.html?ver=esp (Espanol)
2. Text/Texto – “Horford” to 69622
3. In Arena/En Arena – Voting Ballots are available at all NBA Arenas
4. Mobile Web/Movil Web - http://m.nba.com on your cell phone
Yesterday, December 24th, 2011, Al Horford and Amelia Vega were married in a Civil Ceremony. According to media sources the wedding took place at the home of Juan Luis Guerra shares with his wife in the Dominican Republic, at 5pm. Amelia Vega, 27, is Former Miss Universe (2003) and Former Miss Dominican Republic Universe (2002). She’s also the niece of singer, Juan Luis Guerra and his wife, Nora Vega.
Photos courtesy of diariolibre
I conducted a Twitterview with Al today, but his very first question and answer session on Twitter was actually November 12th, 2009. If you wanted to see what he was asked, and what he answered back then you’re in luck. The Q and A transcript was on the former Al Horford Fans Site (when it was on Ning) but I never moved it over, so here it is.
Question: @Al_Horford do u think u have become a better player since u left college? By the way I love u al!!!! #NBA #Hawks #Gators
Answer: @maidah_08 i think so i feel way better about my game now. Love u too
Question: @Al_Horford Also, where did that fadeaway shot from last nights game come from…you don’t break that one out too much…Go Hawks
Answer: @ATLnSports Yeah i have it in my game. Coach just wants me to go to the basket everytime
Question: @Al_Horford Great game last night, Al! Heading back to Gainesville anytime soon? See when you come play the Wizards in Feb!
Answer: @DCG8RGRL Ill try to make it if theres a home basketball game to Gainesville
Question: @Al_Horford you guys have a strong team. What do you think is the Hawks biggest strength?
Answer: @steviedub Our athleticism and we have a lot of scorers
Question: @Al_Horford u eva thought comin 2 NY for the iS8 tournament?
Answer: @LiiveTivO I need a team, im open
Question: @Al_Horford u need to anwser questions more often! )
Answer: @5star09 I will. Im going to start to do this once a week. ill let everyone know when
Question: @Al_Horford Do you think you have a chance to be in the all-star game? What did you do this summer to improve your game?
Answer: @therealcharlsd I think so. I worked on my shooting all summer and hit the weights hard
Question: @Al_Horford did you lose wieght in the offseason, you look more athletic than ever before, even more than when you were a Gator…
Answer: @ATLnSports i put on more weight and im more toned. Feel in great shape
Question: @Al_Horford — Hey man what’s up? How do you think some of the and 1 ballers would do in the NBA based on the success of skip aka rafer?
Answer: @zogaard Depends who it is and what team they play for
Question: @Al_Horford What was the toughest environment to play during college?
Answer: @theshom_42 at Mississippi State. the hump. the crowd was rowdy
Question: @Al_Horford yo all what part of Dominican republic u from
Answer: @adalberto_perez Puerto plata
Question: @Al_Horford What do you think about your fellow Gator, Speights? He’s been the best and most consistent 76er so far this season.
Answer: @STEEEeee Yeah he has been great for the #sixers. It was just a matter of time. hes very talented
Question: {Assuming: Do you have a facebook account?}
Answer: @FamousUmair yeah i got a facebook page
Question: @Al_Horford how often did u practice as a kid?
Answer: @Patsfan3698 almost everyday. but i also did other sports like basbeall, soccer, volleyball, track
Question: @Al_Horford if you were’nt in basket ball what other sport would you play
Question: Answer @bahamaboi19 baseball or football
Question: @Al_Horford I mean size kicks do u wear
Answer @TKSmoove 17
Question: @Al_horford: How hard is the transition from playing power forward to the center postion you are sometimes being forced to play?
Answer @Tystephenson It was tough at first, but im more use to it now
Question: @Al_Horford how’s the hawks treating u
Answer @Gsxr750boy Good cant complain
Question: @Al_Horford Who are some of the big men you are trying to emulate and learn from as you develop in your still-young career?
Answer @glenngiangrande I look to guys like chris bosh, david west, david lee. guys play the game the right way
Question: @Al_Horford How does the NBA compare with playing championship level college ball?
Answer @GatorGirl7214 Its very different levels of play. NBA its tougher just because theres so much talent. However college is all about team
Question: @Al_Horford que se siente ser un latino en la nba, y como ves el futuro del baloncesto latino?
Answer @jo_oliva Me siento orgulloso. Y me siento muy bien acerca del futuro del baloncesto latino. hay mucho talento en nuestros países. Yo pienso hacer mi parte en un futuro. promoviendo el baloncesto y haciendo campamentos
Question: @Al_Horford do u like the addition of jamal crawford to the #hawks??
Answer @ballismalyfe Im a big Jamal Crawford fan, he brings fire power to the team. Happy to have him
Question: @Al_Horford would you rather be a power forward or do you like being a Center better???
Answer @VersityEnt i can play both. with our team i feel confident playing the 5
Question: @Al_Horford do u have a ps3
Answer @lilballer3 no i have a Wii
Question: @Al_Horford which NBA team do you think has the biggest rivalry with the Hawks?
Answer @PoloGee Celtics and the heat. just because of the playoffs
Question: @Al_Horford What will the #Hawks do differently against the Celtics tomorrow night. We had a shaky 1st half last night.
Answer @miss_mo14 Just come out strong, we cant get behind like that vs Boston, they are a great team
Question: @Al_Horford Hey Al . I was just wondering wat is it like 2 play for the Atlanta hawks Basketball Team? Thanx Take Care, Best Wishes
Answer @Sparkle_Boots I love playing for the Hawks, i have great teamates and i love the city
Question: @Al_Horford How does it feel to have such a good start to this season and how do you set the tone for your team?
Answer @Flyyboii_Darryl feels good starting the right way, we just have to stay together and hang strong
Question: Por fin @Al_Horford en twitter!
Answer @iAlexDR tu lo sabe
Question: @Al_Horford does your team feel stronger this year with more depth coming from the bench?
Answer @zbriber26 we are wayyyyy more confident
Question: @Al_Horford Whats up Al How do you feel about the team’s progress this year?
Answer @TempleU2010 I like our team progress, i think we are showing a lot of growth as a team. We can still get better
Question: @Al_Horford Would you accept my challenge to a game of ping pong or do you think you’ll lose to a girl?
Answer @MissToyToy1 Very confident about my ping pong game. If i host a tournament, ill invite you to play
Question: @Al_Horford do u think u would dominate more if u played powerfoward instead of center?
Answer @youngPaynt Its more of my natural position. but theres a lot of great forwards in the game, so it would be a challenge
Question: @Al_Horford What do you feel you improved on from last season to this season?
Answer @TwAtlanta Feel like im better on defense just guarding the ball better. And on offense more confident about my offense
Question: @Al_Horford Do you have any pre-game rituals?
Answer @bamafan08 No pre game rituals, just a regular routine, of taking a nap, eating and working out before the game
Question: @Al_Horford You and zaza are taking the Hawks to the conference finals this year, right?
Answer @mickscal Thats a long ways, but we hope so
Question: @al_horford who is your favorite celebrity you have met in the ATL?
Answer @biggesthawksfan Chris Tucker came to one of the games and i got to meet him after, that was real cool
Question: @Al_Horford Who can jump higher, Jason Collins or ZaZa?
Answer @TwAtlanta LOL good question! probably zaza, but not by much
Question: @Al_Horford What’s your normal pre-game meal?
Answer @slefkoff Normal pre game meal is some Pasta either chicken alfredo or bolognese. with some salad and bread
Question: {Assuming that this was a question about NBA centers. Ya no se.}
Answer @EL_EU Probablemente Yao Ming ya que es tan grenade y Howard porque tiene mucho poder
Today I conducted a short Twitterview session with Al Horford. The interview was scheduled for 4pm, but officially started about 4:06 due to technical issues and ended about 30 minutes later. Several fans sent their questions to me to ask Al and from the feedback I received that fans loved it. Al, also loved it he said that it went really well. Here’s a recap of all the Questions that were asked, and the Answers that were given.
1. Q: What was it like taking the Hawks to the Playoffs in just your first NBA season? (asked by @mynci2894)
A: It was special, the team had struggled in the past and I was glad to be able to come in and help the team make the Playoffs.
2. Q: Are you concerned about this season’s grueling schedule pace and possible fatigue late in the season? (asked by @michaeltorres03)
A: Yes! We are on edge, it’s going to be key to get rest and take care of our bodies. Staying focus is also key.
3. Q: Where do you like to go around Town when you’re in Atlanta? (asked by @JBL_Burrito)
A: It depends. I like to hang out in Atlantic Station, eat at some good restaurants, I also go to BBB (Buckhead Bottle Bar) which is Zaza’s place, Lenox Mall, all over town.
4. Q: What did you learn most being the Hawks player rep during the Lockout? (asked by @vtangpricha)
A: I learned more about the business side of the NBA, and how it’s important to be aware of what goes on in the league.
5. Q: What team(s) do you like playing against the most? (Asked by @co_co_loca)
A: I like to play in certain Arenas more than teams. Like New York, Boston, LA, Orlando.
6. Q: What is the sentiment of the team is now that Jamal is gone? What did he mean to the team? (Asked by @THATkia)
A: Jamal was a great teammate and we weren’t happy to see him go, but that’s the way the business side of sports is.
7. Q: Do you think the Hawks can contend for the Championship? What changes do you see in the team? (Asked by @ATLFalconsFan96)
A: We are confident with the team that we have. More importantantly we have to focus on having a good regular season (and then focusing on the playoffs).
8. Q: What did you practice during the off-season. Did you work on your low-post game? (Asked by @BallUntilIFall)
A: Yes! had a chance to work on my post game and other areas of my game. I’m excited the season is finally here.
9. Q: Now that you’re considered a “Veteran” player, do you feel the need to bring your game to another level? (Asked by myself)
A: I feel more confident as a player and I just want to be the best player I can be. I will keep working and trying to get better.
10. Q: Do you feel that playing for the Dominican Republic National Team and in the USO Tour helped you stay sharp during the Lockout? (Asked by myself)
A: No question about it. I was able to stay in shape and had a great time playing with DR and being part of the USO trip.
BONUS QUESTION
Q: Why did you schedule your Twitterview during a Gators game?
A: No reply. (I think he went to go watch the game at that point. Lol)
*Questions and answers have been edited for grammatical accuracy. Thank you again to Al, and all the fans that asked questions!
I know a lot of you Al Horford Fans out there are anxiously waiting for the NBA Season to start up so you can get to see Al in action. As a thank you for supporting Al, the Hawks and the NBA during the lockout, we (Al and AlHorfordFans.com) will be hosting a Twitter Interview.
The new schedule for the Hawks has an action packed 66 games in 4 months, so the upcoming months will be a busy one for Al. He would love to answer all of the questions his fans ask him on Twitter and Facebook but he’s a busy guy. Hopefully this will be the first of several”Twitterviews” that will be conducted this season.
I, Del (@AH15Fans), will be the Interviewer/Moderator asking Al the questions that you fans have for him. I will ask him the questions on Twitter, and he will reply on Twitter as well. You can ask a question in either English or Spanish, however only one question per person will be answered.
If you would like to have your questions asked you can either @reply me (@AH15Fans), DM me, email Del@AlHorfordFans.com, or leave a comment below. Please include your Name, Twitter Username and your question.
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Date: Saturday (12/17/11)
Time: 4pm
Place: Twitter
Interviewer: Del P. (That’s me)
Interviewee: Al Horford
Guidelines: The questions will be moderated, so anything deemed inappropriate will not be asked. If you do ask multiple questions, only one will be used. If your question(s) isn’t used then it will be filed away for future use (if applicable), and considered later on. Also do not @reply Al your questions directly, you can if you wish but if I personally don’t see the question I won’t be able to see it to ask him during the Twitterview. Questions are due any time before the Twitterview starts, any questions sent after the Twitterview has already started will be filed for future use.
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For those in Atlanta, please come by Philips Arena this Friday at 7pm for the Hawks Free Open Scrimmage if you’re free. More Information is available on Hawks.com P.S. I’ll be the girl wearing a Hawks T-shirt that says “Cupcake 23″, say hi!
NEW YORK – Atlanta Hawks power forward Al Horford told Fox News Latino that he wasn’t surprised that the NBA decided to scrap 100 games off the schedule. And he fears that more games could be wiped of the schedule unless the players and owners come to a settlement on a new collective bargaining agreement.
“To tell you the truth that’s something we more or less saw coming because since we both were so far from an agreement, I imagined that happening,” the Hawks All-Star said.
“I think that way everything is looking right now, I think more weeks will be canceled because both sides are not seeing eye-to-eye. The players are holding up strong because we think it’s the right thing,” he added.
Players and owners remain far apart on several issues. Each side has sought a 53 percent cut of revenue for itself, though a 50-50 split has been floated informally. Owners also want a higher luxury tax, making it more expensive for teams exceed the salary cap, but players worry that teams would be discouraged from offering big contracts to attract star players.
The cancellation of the first two weeks affects games played through Nov. 14. If there is a season at all, it would be the first shortened season since 1998-99, which featured a 50-game season due to a lockout.
Some players have picked up their sneakers and signed contracts with teams in European leagues –usually with out-clauses should an agreement with the NBA take place. Those that have signed with teams in China have no such clauses and will be forced to play out the length of their deals.
There have been rumors that some player agents were looking at players to possibly entertain the idea of decertifying the union, like the NFL players did this summer before they reached an agreement with the owners.
For now, Horford would prefer a settlement. He pointed out that the NFL “was in a different situation that ours” while adding that since they have a 16-game season, “their games were of higher magnitude, a little bit more important.”
Horford’s current plans are to stay home, but would keep his mind open if the right offer comes along.
“To tell you the truth I think everything is possible at this point. I’m not really looking for that but I won’t rule it out,” Horford said. “Right now I’m keeping myself in shape and practicing.”
The Dominican, who starred at the University of Florida and won back-to-back national championships there, played for his country’s national team in the FIBA Americas qualifiers held in Argentina late this summer for the 2012 Olympics in London, feels that Derek Fisher and Chris Paul have been doing a “great job” in keeping guys like him and the rest of the players informed.
While many of his NBA counterparts have played in summer leagues in New York City, Los Angeles and D.C., Horford didn’t participate in any of those, instead choosing to work-out in Los Angeles and his alma mater.
However, “If this keeps on going,” Horford adds, “there are some chances that I would have some training clinics out in the Dominican Republic.”
Adry Torres, who has covered MLB, NFL, NBA and NCAA basketball games and related events, is a regular contributor to Fox News Latino. He can be reached at elpiloto137@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter: @adrytorresnyc.
The career length of both NBA and NFL Players average about 5 years, depending on a plethora of variables. These Variables include but are not limited to what draft pick they were (if they were even drafted), for NBA players – their height, for NFL Players – how often they’re on an Active roster. The biggest thing to end a good (or bad) career is injury. Even a good player, who’s consistently on a team and getting playing time will eventually have to retire. Not many players can manage to stay in either league for more that 15 years. In the time that they are in the league they can accumulate a vast amount of money, spend a vast amount of money, and get used to a certain standard of living.
In this day and age Players have to be more than just an Athlete, they have to realize that their body is a business and a way for them to build their legacy. It’s up to Athletes what they would like to accomplish with their influence, power and money. There is a great opportunity for all Professional Athletes to go beyond the game and become business men and women, leaders in their communities and leave a legacy that extends beyond their sport. It doesn’t matter if they are an All Star Athlete or a less known bench warmer they can still use their clout to their advantage. Professional Athletes have an amazing opportunity to meet people, gain experiences and opportunities that others could only dream of. They also have a great schedule, they can focus on their career during the season and then finish or gain degrees and knowledge in the off-season.
The October Issue of INC Magazine featured former and current NFL Players: N.D. Kalu, Will Herring, Ross Tucker, Donald Strickland, Michael Husted, Rick Mirer, Matt Chatham, Ryan Diem, Eddie George, Alex Bernstein, and Dhani Jones. The article is titled “Goodbye, Locker Room; Hello Boadroom. NFL Players turned entrepreneurs.” The article spoke of the NFL Business Management and Entrepreneurial Program that was founded in 2005. The one week intensive courses are held at the business schools of Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern and Stanford. The NFL’s efforts are ones that I am proud of and happy to see has been beneficial to many of the players.
I hope to see the NBA/NBPA following a similar plan as well for the NBA Players, especially after the recent lockout. A lockout which has seen a lot of players expanding their own portfolios and business interests. Such players as Tyson Chandler, who spoke with the website Global Grind recently about his hope to work with designer Joseph Abboud. Chandler, who at 7’1″ is well above the height of the average man and taller than most people in the world. He hopes to co-design a line of fashionable clothing catered to those of his stature that don’t want to always resort to having their clothes custom made. He has take the initiative to use an unfortunate situation and turn it into an advantageous moment in his life. Retired Athletes, such as former NFL Quarterback Drew Bledsoe, have also been using their time out of the game to work on other endeavors. Bledsoe has been spending his retirement participating in his favorite hobby, Skiing, and turning that hobby into a Custom Ski Business. Not every Athlete is a business person, but every Athlete has the potential to their sport as a platform for their other interests.
Made-to-measure suit makers, Indochino, recently launched a Steve Nash Collection which the NBA Star designed and modeled. This collection features a handsome collection of suits priced between $499 and $579, with accessories such as ties and pocket squares coming it at $39-$49. To help kick off the launch Indochino is also having a Facebook Contest for the Steve Nash Collection. The lucky winner receives two suits from the collection, along with 2 tickets, airfare and hotel accommodations to meet Steve Nash at a Suns game. If that wasn’t great enough you get to shake his hand and get $500 in cold hard cash!
Take a look at the collection of Suits, with coordinating accessories below.
(via TBJ)
Today, 9/27, is the release of J. Cole’s much anticipated “Cole World: The Sideline Story” debut album in the U.S. Along with the usual fanfare of press events, CD signings and other parties and meet and greets, Cole has partnered with the guys over a JackThreads to pick some of his clothing favorites.
JackThreads is one of the first Flash Sale sights to cater to men who favor Urban brands and style. They’re owned by Thrillist, so they carry out the typical Thrillist movement with Local, Unknown and Up and Coming Brands and Designers.
J. Cole’s #ColeWorld Sale consists of his favorites from 10Deep, The Hundreds, Flud, and Supra. He has everything that a person could need to add to their fall wardrobe, from hats, scarves and caps to Hoodies, Jeans and Button Ups and you can’t forget a nice watch and kicks to compliment it all. Cole’s style is simple, put together and subdued. The Jackthreads presser says it the best.
Much like the piano-laden intro to his debut album, Cole’s style sense is understated but impactful, eschewing the overly flashy ideals of his grill-sporting peers. And while he leans more towards subdued tones and gray or black garments, “Mr. Nice Watch” tactfully spruces it up with unmissable accents — a clean fitted, vibrant stadium jacket, or diamond-studded timepiece.
In this sale you’ll find gear with the same quiet but confident aesthetic. A plaid, black and gray Hundreds button-up, chalkboard-textured Supra Skytops, a white rubber Flud watch, and more. It’s Cole’s World and we’re all just living in it, so “turn off the lights” and let your persona speak for itself.
Make sure you cop J. Cole’s album, I’ve been listening to it for the last week (pre-release) and I have to say that I am loving it. I’m not a huge J. Cole fan but he is certainly growing on me and his debut album is legit indeed, worth the wait.
In honor of Fashion Friday and New York’s Fall Fashion Week I thought I would write about one of the best dressed athletes that I know, Zaza Pachulia. Georgia Native, Zaza Pachulia, is the epitome of NBA fashion with his Euro-fit designer clothing, attention to detail and his love of eye-wear. What you may not know is that he’s become a bit of a well known Restaurateur here in Atlanta. One of my favorite places to go in Atlanta happens to be Zaza Pachulia’s restaurant.
Buckhead Bottle Bar, which is located at 268 East Paces Ferry Road in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, GA. Naturally anyone with so much style and fashion sense will portray emulate those qualities in their business endeavors. Zaza and his Business Partners, A.D. Allushi and Chef Ian Winslade of ADI Restaurant Concepts, have done an excellent with the restaurant. This is not the first restaurant that Zaza has owned, he also owned now debunked ENO/Fifth Street Cafe, but it’s proven to be the most successful. Buckhead Bottle Bar is described as a “Restaurant and Cocktail House”, per their website.
As a frequent visitor, I can say first hand that it’s that and more. BBB, as I and my friends refer to it, has become a very popular spot in the nightlife scene in Buckhead. Buckhead Bottle Bar, on the outside has a sort of European flair to it with it’s white washed paint and awnings covered patios on two levels. It also features brightly colored green and brown stenciling of the restaurant name, and at night you can see the windows lined with back-lit glass bottles light up giving it a more “Club” look. It’s also opened later than most places in the Buckhead area, so it’s appeal to Young Professionals is very high.
Inside there are several different areas that patrons can enjoy their night. There’s the main eating area lined with booths on the side and in the back, with an ample amount of tables placed on the inside. Depending on whether there is an event that night or not, some or all of the tables may be removed to give guest more space to socialize. To the left you have the large main bar, and to the right you the kitchen. As you venture further into the building you will find a rear bar and seating area, with close proximity to the bathrooms. My favorite area is the outdoor Patio area, complete with it’s own bar. There’s also an upstairs area with outdoor patio, which remains a mystery to me.
What I love about the restaurant’s ambiance is that there are at least a half a dozen TVs and tons of ambient lighting sprinkled throughout. On most nights, the TVs are circulating a variety of popular songs/music videos that are current or were big hits in previous years/decades. You will always find someone dancing along, and you’ll eventually find yourself joining them. I have witnessed some rather epic and, in some cases, awkward dance battles go down in the middle of BBB. On NFL Sundays, the restaurant turns those TVs onto the game so those avid Football fans out there can also get some sports in while they eat and drink.
Speaking of food and drinks, both are delicious and well worth it here. This is not your neighborhood sports bar though, you will not get mile high portions on a beer budget. That’s not to say that Buckhead Bottle Bar is expensive, to some it may be, but you get your money’s worth in quality. The menus were created by A.D Allushi-drinks and Chef Ian Winslade-food, and are directly benefited by both of their creativity and years of experience in the industry. The food is served very tastefully, not too elaborately but you know that you’ll be tempted to take a picture of it before you dive in (and I have with no shame). Even, my relatively run of the mill order of Onion rings came out in a tower of greatness.
<<Ignore the bite mark, they were that good.
The menu is mainly American in nature with a strong European/Mediterranean influence. All of my friends rave about the Burgers and Sliders, which are delicious, but you also can not go wrong with the Mac & Cheese Spring Rolls and the Crab & Cheese Fritters. The sweet pepper dip that goes with the spring rolls gives it that extra kick that takes it from average comfort food to gourmet delight. Same goes for the already pretty “fancy” Crab & Cheese Fritters, I don’t know what is in the toasted pecan sauce but I was very tempted to lick the plate. Whether you’re going big bite or small bite, traditional or experimenting. I have yet to eat anything here I didn’t like and I’m very picky.
The drinks menu is also very essential to the experience. With your choice of 4 bars (including the one on the rooftop patio), you can always find somewhere close by to get your drink. The wines are the feature of the restaurants menu with your option of red, rose, white and sparkling, in a glass, carafe or the whole bottle. There’s also a nice selection of Featured cocktails and several different beers for you to choose from. The bars are well stocked and the Bartenders are great at making almost any drink you want. In coordination with it’s name, the restaurant also provides “bottle service” for those who are celebrating at BBB with their entourage.
I spent my first “real” Saint Patrick’s Day at Buckhead Bottle Bar, I was only in town for one day (at the time I lived in Boston) and wanted to enjoy my night. The plan was to go to BBB, get my free drink because I could prove I’m Irish and then head to Fado Irish Pub down the street. Needless to say, I never made it to Fado. My friend and I ended up staying at BBB and enjoyed the company of, for lack of better words, a bunch of toasted folks dressed in green drinking the night away.
What made my visit, and all my subsequent visits to Buckhead Bottle Bar great wasn’t the food or drinks, but the people there. BBB has a very nice and relatively diverse group of customers who are guaranteed to entertain you. A lot also has to be said for Vini, I’m not sure what his official title is, but I believe he is the Manager for the establishment. He’s always been the guy I go to when I need anything at BBB, he’s friendly but efficient and he knows how to provide good service. Zaza is also a fixture at BBB, just about half of the times I’ve been their he’s also been there as well greeting guests, taking pictures and being a gracious host. Zaza’s Teammates and other local Celebrities also frequent the establishment and can be seen there from time to time.
Buckhead Bottle Bar is a fun place to go to eat, drink and be merry. It’s at the heart of the developing “Streets of Buckhead” district which is planned to be the “Rodeo drive of Atlanta” with plenty of upscale swagger. I was able to attend Buckhead Bottle Bar’s one year anniversary and had a very memorable night. Gladly BBB has made it where many restaurants do not, past the one year mark, and they seem to be on their way to many more years. What makes BBB stand out isn’t one particular element it’s just the overall “Swag” of it all. It screams Young and Fly but Mature, catering to the Grown folks looking to escape the traditional “Club Scene”.
<<Zaza and I at Buckhead Bottle Bar’s One Year Anniversary.
On a business note. The restaurant is very much so “Family” owned and operated, the majority of the guys are either Georgian (the country) or Albanian. There’s a sense of kinship and camaraderie but there’s also years of experience to support it. Where many other athletes may have failed before is not finding a balance of professionalism and friendship with those managing their business ventures. Owning a business is hard enough without you worrying about having a lack of support and employing people that don’t know what they’re doing.
Whether you’re a baller or ballin on a budget, everyone wants to have a nice car, nice house and to travel a little bit. Whether you like a big house and car or something a little simpler, or to travel domestically or abroad…I have you covered!
Cars
Please, if you are ever fortunate in your life to own a Ferrari…do not paint it Camo. I will judge you, a lot. >> Link
Sink or Float. Hopefully the latter, rather the former. If it’s the former, I’m assuming you have the money to buy a new one. >> Link
Star Wars Themed Lamborghini Murcielago. Enough Said. >> Link
Real Estate
You too can live in a spacious Bubble Home for less than a 10th of the average U.S. home price! >> Link
Manny Ramirez is selling his beautiful 4500 Square Feet Penthouse Suite at Boston’s Ritz Carlton.>> Link
Matt Hasselbeck gave ESPN a tour of his waterfront house on Lake Chelan, Washington.>> Link
Vacations and Travel
For only $8K/Day you can Richard Branson’s Private Island can be your private island. >> Link
Puerto Plata, DR is a great vacation spot. Take advantage of this $240, 4 night, all inclusive package that Groupon is offering before it’s sold out! >> Link
Been frisked at the airport lately? Well if you travel you must be familiar with good old TSA by now. Good news, they have an app! >> Link
TIRED of being frisked at the airport every week? The TSA is set to implement a Trusted Traveler Program this fall. >> Link
The biggest news in the music world this last week has to be the U.S. launch of Spotify. It doesn’t matter what genre of music that you favor, Spotify has you covered…and covered well. While it’s still considered to be in Beta, Spotify aims at taking the best features of all the music sharing/streaming sites that you’re familiar with and combining them in one singular application. You can listen to all the new albums you’ve wanted to hear before you bought, find new favorite artists and songs, and share your playlists or favorite songs with your friend (those on Spotify and those not.)
Spotify not only streams a plethora of music, seemingly every artist is available, but it also allows you to port in your own playlists that are already on your computer or phone into one singular place. The main feature that Spotify boasts that other music players don’t have, it’s seamless connection between music on your phone, music on your computer and music online. Depending on how much you plan on using this service, and to what extent they off three different plans at the moment.
If you’re interested in getting an invite to try out Spotify yourself you can get a free one courtesy of Coca Cola or Klout!! I highly recommend at least trying it out. I’m sure you will fall in love.
Speaking of Albums, these are the albums that will be released tomorrow:
DJ Khaled – We the Best Forever
3 Doors Down – Time Of My Life
There are a more album releases, viewable here, but nothing considerably major. I see a big first week for DJ Khaled, who pushed up his album a week and a half.
Google Plus, Netflix’s price increase and Facebook’s Skype integration. Chances are you’ve heard about at least one of these in the last week or so. Whether you’re an athlete who watches movies on Netflix or Skype video chats with loved ones after away games, or a Fan who uses Google Plus to connect with other fans out there…you probably use these products and care about how they affect you. While it’s a bit soon to see how these will play out, it’s always great to stay up on the latest tech news since Technology changes literally every day. If you haven’t gotten familiar with Google Plus or didn’t get an invite yet, here’s a Google Plus Guide to help you out.
We too the time to focus on services, now let’s focus on products. CNET has released it’s list of the “10 Most-anticipated Upcoming Tech Products“. Half of 2011 is already over and the next thing you know it will be the Christmas shopping season. There’s a barrage of Phones, TVs, Tablets and other Electronics that will be making their way into stores in the next month or two in time for Back-2-School season, while others won’t be out until Christmas or even later. Nevertheless here are the top most anticipated electronics.
Here are some other items from around the web.
Mark Zuckerberg is now worth 18 Billion Dollars>> Link
May the force be with your hair? >>Link
Star Trek PADD now available for iPad>> Link
World’s First Gold Vending Machine>> Link
First iPhone Crystal Docking Station>> Link
The 2011 ESPYs kicked off with some banter and humor from Mr. Seth Meyer. Whether you’re a fan of his or not you couldn’t help but laugh as he “roasted” the athletes both in the audience and those who weren’t. The night continued with a variety of skits sprinkled through out the handing out of awards. The Lockout Professionals skit was the best of the night. Blake Griffin, Kevin Love, Adrian Peterson, Metta World Peace (Ron Artest) and Tyson Chandler were phenomenal in their portrayal of pro athletes looking for new jobs during the lockout . The Vancouver Kissing Couple skit however was, for lack of better words, atrocious. The WTF skit of the night had to be the Dirk Academy of Awkward Basketball. Hilarious yet so wrong.
I enjoyed the them of the award show with the Digitized graphical effects of the nominees. The video game theme as a whole was a nice touch. It was also a nice touch the video conferencing with the U.S.A. Women’s National Team, who are on their pursuit of the World Cup Title. The two tear jerking moments of the night were the Jimmy V and Arthur Ashe Award Recipients, Anthony Robles and Dewey Bozella. Anthony who was born with no legs became NCAA Wrestling Champion and Dewey Bozella who was wrongfully convicted, spent 20 years in jail has used Boxing to inspire a whole community. The highest respect to both men for doing all they can with what they were given, and persevered through life long difficulties. This years show was entertaining, inspiring and full of laughs.
The winners (and nominees) of the 2011 ESPYs are below. The bold selection in each Category is the winner.
BEST MALE ATHLETE
Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR
Rafael Nadal, Tennis
Dirk Nowitzki, NBA
Aaron Rodgers NFL
BEST FEMALE ATHLETE
Kelly Clark, Snowboarding
Lauren Jackson, WNBA
Maya Moore, NCAA Basketball
Lindsey Vonn, Skiing
BEST CHAMPIONSHIP PERFORMANCE
Tim Lincecum, 2010 MLB Postseason
Tim Thomas, Stanley Cup Finals
Kemba Walker, Big East Tournament and NCAA Tournament
Serena Williams, 2010 Wimbledon
BEST BREAKTHROUGH ATHLETE
Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays
Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers
Li Na, Tennis
Cam Newton, Auburn Tigers
BEST RECORD-BREAKING PERFORMANCE
Ray Allen, NBA 3-point record
Rory McIlroy, U.S Open
Derrick Rose, Youngest player to win NBA MVP
UConn Women’s Basketball, Longest win streak
BEST UPSET
Blame over Zenyatta, Breeder’s Cup
Fabricio Werdum stuns Fedor Emelianenko, MMA
Seahawks upset Saints, NFL Wild Card Playoffs
VCU, NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament
BEST GAME
Auburn beats Alabama, Iron Bowl
Butler upsets Pittsburgh, NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament
Eagles rally to beat the Giants, NFL
Oklahoma City edges Memphis in 3OT, NBA Playoffs
BEST MOMENT
Fennville HS Basketball Team, High school basketball tournament run
Roy Halladay Postseason No-Hitter, MLB
Trevor Bayne at Daytona 500, NASCAR
BEST TEAM
Auburn Football
Boston Bruins
Dallas Mavericks
Green Bay Packers
San Francisco Giants
Texas A&M Women’s Basketball
CASTROL EDGE PERFORMANCE UNDER PRESSURE AWARD
Arian Foster, Houston Texans
DeAngelo Hall, Washington
Leon Washington, Seattle
BEST SPORTS MOVIE
The Fighter
Secretariat
Soul Surfer
Win Win
BEST COACH/MANAGER
Jim Calhoun, Connecticut Basketball
Rick Carlisle, Dallas Mavericks
Gene Chizik, Auburn Football
Mike McCarthy, Green Bay Packers
Dom Starsia, Virginia Lacrosse
BEST NFL PLAYER
Tom Brady, New England
Arian Foster, Houston
Clay Matthews Jr., Green Bay
Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay
BEST MLB PLAYER
Jose Bautista, Toronto
Roy Halladay, Philadelphia
Josh Hamilton, Texas
Felix Hernandez, Seattle
Joey Votto, Cincinnati
-
BEST NHL PLAYER
Corey Perry, Anaheim
Daniel Sedin, Vancouver
Martin St. Louis, Tampa Bay
Tim Thomas, Boston
-
BEST DRIVER
Greg Anderson
John Force
Dario Franchitti
Jimmie Johnson
BEST NBA PLAYER
Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers
Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City
LeBron James, Miami
Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas
Derrick Rose, Chicago
BEST WNBA PLAYER
Tamika Catchings, Indiana
Lauren Jackson, Seattle
Cappie Pondexter, New York
Diana Taurasi, Phoenix
BEST FIGHTER
Bernard Hopkins
Jon “Bones” Jones
Sergio Martinez
Manny Pacquiao
George St. Pierre
BEST MALE GOLFER
Luke Donald
Jim Furyk
Graeme McDowell
Rory McIlroy
Charl Schwartzel
BEST FEMALE GOLFER
Na Yeon Choi
Cristie Kerr
Jiyai Shin
Yani Tseng
BEST MALE TENNIS PLAYER
Novak Djokovic
Roger Federer
Rafael Nadal
BEST FEMALE TENNIS PLAYER
Kim Clijsters
Li Na
Serena Williams
Caroline Wozniacki
BEST MALE COLLEGE ATHLETE
Jimmer Fredette, BYU Basketball
Andy Miele, Miami-Ohio Hockey
Cam Newton, Auburn Football
Rob Pannell, Cornell Lacrosse
Kemba Walker, Connecticut Basketball
BEST FEMALE COLLEGE ATHLETE
Blair Brown, Penn State Volleyball
Dallas Escobedo, Arizona State Softball
Melissa Henderson, Notre Dame Soccer
Katinka Hosszu, USC Swimming
Maya Moore, Connecticut Basketball
BEST MALE ACTION SPORT ATHLETE
Tucker Hibbert, Snowmobiling
Travis Pastrana, Motocross
Kevin Rolland, Freestyle Skiing
Kelly Slater, Surfing
Shaun White, Snowboarding
BEST FEMALE ACTION SPORT ATHLETE
Sarah Burke, Freestyle Skier
Kelly Clark, Snowboarding
Ashley Fiolek, Motocross
Stephanie Gilmore, Surfing
BEST JOCKEY
Ramon Dominguez
Garrett Gomez
John Velasquez
BEST MALE ATHLETE WITH A DISABILITY
Chris Devlin-Young
Anthony Robles
Aaron Scheidies
Jerome Singleton
Steve Wampler
BEST FEMALE ATHLETE WITH A DISABILITY
Allison Jones
Tatyana McFadden
Alana Nichols
Melissa Stockwell
Mallory Weggemann
BEST BOWLER
Chris Barnes
Jason Belmonte
Mika Koivuneimi
Bill O’Neill
BEST MLS PLAYER
Edson Buddle, Los Angeles
Landon Donovan, Los Angeles
David Ferreira, Dallas
Chris Wondolowski, San Jose
BEST TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETE
Allyson Felix
Tyson Gay
David Oliver
OTHER AWARDS
Best Comeback: Mark Herzlich
Arthur Ashe Award for Courage: Dewey Bozella
Best Play: Abby Wamback
Capital One Cup: Stanford women’s athletics and Florida men’s athletics.
Jimmy V Award: Anthony Robles
EXTRAS
Original Post Dated for 5/7/2011
One thing I do on a nightly basis is take a look at the all the different comments on blogs get a feel for how Atlanta really feels about their team. Of course I check twitter as well but the more interesting comments come from the blogs. I see everything, the overwhelming favorites are Joe is an overpaid b**** or Fire LD, and of course you have the guys who try and “fix” the problem by proposing various and let me say absolutely ridiculous trades. (IE: The whole team for Dwight Howard, The whole team for Bynum, etc.) But really how can we fix the Hawks?
Consensus pick is it can’t be fixed because we gave JJ a ridiculous amount of money. Now as most know I am a huge JJ fan and will continue to be that. Do I think he is overpaid? Yes. Do I think he is the most overpaid player in the NBA? I do not. I’ll leave it at that and spare you people the economics and all that of the NBA. To be completely honest, JJ and his contract CAN be traded at this point and one day I will get into that. But that in my opinion would be waving the white flag and saying we are beginning to rebuild and I don’t think that is a good idea for the Hawks organization.
The next pick is usually find a true center or a true point guard. Many times to my disliking the Hawks faithful seem to give our center a pass because he is “out of position”. Don’t get me wrong I like Al. He is everything you want in a basketball player. At the same time I see as many flaws in his game as I see in the other Hawks. (But that’s another a whole different blog) Thing is in a league that has at best 2 legit GOOD centers (Dwight Howard and Andrew Bynum, and no I don’t count Bogut) there is no real NEED to go over spend to find one that will not play the position as good as Al does. If you do luck into a good center I think you take a look but I don’t think at this point it is a necessity. The point guard thing I guess you can say is “under review” as Jeff Teague has finally gotten his chance and has made the best of it so far in the playoffs.
The last of the big grievances amongst Hawks fans is the enigmatic Josh Smith. The emotions the Hawks faithful go through with J-Smoove is just, for lack of better words, crazy. He can make you love him with his thunderous dunks, his great defensive presence, and his passion for the game. He can also make you absolutely hate him with his insistence on jacking up jumpers when he is not a great jump shooter, he’s unwillingness to drive to the basket when he is one of best in the league at doing so, and his total lack of basketball IQ. It’s hard for me to ever agree to a Josh Smith trade unless we are getting something great back. Because who knows maybe Smoove will get it one day, he’s only 25 and if he ever does get it WATCH OUT!
For all the problems Hawks fans seem to have with the Hawks, this team is pretty good. There is no doubt in my mind we have one of the more talented teams in the league. There is also no doubt in my mind that we have a team with more guys who just don’t get it. It is very annoying especially for city that is craving for a winner.(I won’t even get on Atlanta fans right now) I won’t give up hope just yet. I am open changes but not a total overhaul. Things will be interesting for the next few weeks as I do think we are still in this series with Chicago. Until next time, Go Hawks!
#SexyShred Recipe - “Everything But The Kitchen Sink” Tropical Smoothie
1 Serving of Carrots
2 Servings of Beets
2 Servings of Kale
1 Serving of Spinach
2 Servings of Frozen Tropical Fruit Mix (Strawberries, Mangoes and Pineapples)
1 Lemon
1 Cup of Greek Yogurt
1 Cup of Soy Milk
Optional:
Honey - to taste (or whatever your favorite sugar/sweetener is)
Ground Flaxseed
This is where I’ve kept my hopes and wishes for the New Year for the last few years. Maybe in 2013…we’ll be friends again…maybe not.
I am not a ride or die chick. I have questions? Where we riding to? Why I gotta die? Can’t I just be a stay at home & you call me later chick?
Via someecards
They key to happiness is knowing when to move on, because moving on is the greatest gift you can give to yourself.
Nobody puts Baby in a corner!
-Johnny, Dirty Dancing
…now you know damn well this is for you two.
Liking you is the most God awful, frustrating thing that I have ever been through in my 21 years of life and that’s a long 21 years too. *screams in frustration*
I feel like this chick in DT’s #GuysDontUnderstand video http://youtu.be/9n1TSNTKw30
…No Homo (LOL), but her body is ill.
Cause they don’t smile
Or smell like you
No they don’t make me laugh
Or even cook like you
And they don’t photograph
Nah, they don’t sex like you
Let’s face it, I can’t replace it
That’s why all I want is you now
Living with no regrets is all fine to say, but it’s hard to practice when you’re living in the midst of one of your biggest regrets.
Jennifer Lopez feat. LL Cool J - All I Have
Jennifer’s little red nose in the last gif :(
Dorothy Dandridge ft. Cee Pee Johnson & His Orchestra, A Jig In The Jungle, 1941 [x]
•Assist guests and visitors to Philips Arena during games, concerts, and miscellaneous events.
•Monitor various activities to foster a safe environment for guests and visitors to the Arena.
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