Pre-Valentine's Day song

Considering all the commercializm of the day, I am often reminded of a song that truly captures the spirit of it all. Not on an individual basis, but the whole superficial nature that it is these days (and it was pretty bad years ago). Maybe tomorrow I'll get more into the romantic aspect of it, then again maybe not.

Valentines for Haiti - a thought out loud

I just need to get this off my chest.

Back on the 15th of January I started the Valentines for Haiti promotion. I offered to provide 50% of all profits, from any sale of any item at Alchemy at World of Vass and/or World of Vass, to the Red Cross and other reputable aide organizations working in Haiti. I thought it was a great idea.

It would seem that it was too good an idea. Recently I checked Google for the term "Valentines for Haiti", on the suggestion of a friend, and I was surprised. There were hundreds of references, which didn't exist before about 30 days ago.

The part that annoys me though is that there are so many websites and blogs that took my idea and ran with it. I realize I did not copyright the term, nor was this an idea that was only mine. And I hope that each of these copycats are honorable and forthright in their efforts to help the people of Haiti.

But in looking at numerous results from Google, not a single person that ran with this idea did so before or even on Jan. 15th. Thus they took my inspiration and watered it down. They muddied the waters, and perhaps restricted some readers from getting involved because of fear this was a scam or that by going to some other site and donating they were somehow linked to my actions.

None of the other sites, not belonging to M V Consulting, Inc., are connected to our Valentines for Haiti promotion. While some may be as legitimate as our own action, they are seperate.

I hope this clarifies the question some readers might have about this subject. It's nice to know that so many are listening to my ideas and running with them, I just wish they at least gave me credit and or help.

It's not too late

With Valentine's Day soon approaching everyone is looking for ways to express themselves without breaking the bank, and without being a carbon copy of old traditions. With this current economy, the answer is hard to find, but a suggestion is World of Vass and Alchemy at World of Vass.

The World of Vass clothing lines are more than just clothes, they are unique designer items that your loved one can use/wear all year long. The quality is high, and best of all it's not something you will find anywhere else. Here is an example of what you can find.



and



But don't think there aren't gifts for him as well. There is something that everyone can love.

For those looking for something a bit more unique and imported there is Alchemy at World of Vass.

This is the authentic Alchemy of England line of products. Hand-made and imported from England, they feature English pewter goods, many with Swarovski crystals. Each items is the definition of an original idea, just for your loved one.












The best part is that 50% of the profit of any item purchased will be donated to relief organizations working in Haiti.

So why not take a look. You have nothing to lose, but you can gain the appreciation of a loved one that comes from a gift from the heart and help those that are in need.

New at Alchemy at World of VASS

The latest additions at Alchemy at World of VASS have just been added. Just in time for Valentine's Day. This brings the number of imported English pewter and Swarovski crystal goods to over 160 different items.

The Alchemy line includes:

Flasks




Posters and Flags




Goblets




Crystal Glassware
T-shirts (for Men and Women)







Earrings
Pendants and Neclaces




Handbags
Canes
Bracelets
Shot Glasses
Chalices
Rings




Cigarette cases and Lighters
Cell Phone chains




and more

There is something for every loved one you would like to share an expression of love with. Delivered direct to you, from England with the highest of quality.

And there is a bonus! Every item purchased at either Alchemy at World of VASS and/or World of VASS will have 50% of the profits donated to benefit the people of Haiti. These donations will continue on all sales up to February 14th.

So you will not only be expressing your love for those special people in your life, but you will be helping improve the lives of those in desparate need.

Take a moment and check out our online store. Pick up a small gift for your girlfriend/boyfriend/mom/dad/siter/brother or even yourself. Buy several dozen gifts and have something for everyone. Either way, you will be helping others with your purchase.

Thank you for helping M V Consulting, Inc. give to those that need all of our help.

Sincerely

Michael Vass
President
info@vassconsult.com

Valentines for Haiti

Valentine's Day is a celebration of love. Usually it's a day when a gift or expression of love is given to someone that you know and care about. But love is not limited to those in our immediate circle of friends, family, and relationships. There is also the love of our fellow human being.

Haiti has been devastated by an enormous earthquake. The news has been filling the airwaves, the magnitude of the horror can only be measured in the tens of thousands of lives this has affected. And the true giving spirit of humanity has come forward, as it always does in such a tragedy.

George Clooney is working with MTV to create a telethon to help the people of Haiti. Presidents Bush and Clinton have come together to urge donations for this island nation. President Obama has guaranteed at least $100 million in aide. But the need will be greater than even that.

M V Consulting is not a mega-corporation. Our wells are not without limit, and while I wish I could create a telethon it is not possible. But there is something that we can do. With your help.

Valentine's Day is 30 days away. During this time 50% of all the profits from the sale of any item found at the online stores of M V Consulting, Inc. (Alchemy at World of VASS and World of VASS) will be donated to American Red Cross at www.redcross.org and Yele Haiti at www.yele.org.

So if you were hoping to give your girlfriend a new necklace for Valentine's Day like

The Sacremental Rood Pendant

- Heavily carved cross from the Middle Ages featuring a red-enamelled Sacred Heart and suspended with large Austrian crystal dropper.



or you thought your boyfriend might enjoy

The Black Rose Ale Glass

- A classic straight-sided 1 pint ale glass, but in black glass and branded with an antiqued pewter badge of Triple X Black Rose Ale.



The proceeds will help out those in need in Hati as well.

Maybe you wanted to just get yourself or your brother/sister/mother/father something like



That too will help those in Haiti.

Whatever you choose, no matter how big or small, we will help Haiti with it. Because love of your fellow human being is not about how much you do, but that you do it at all.

Thank you for your help in this matter.

Sincerely

Michael Vass
President - M V Consulting, Inc.
info@vassconsult.com

Valentine's Day alternatives

So with Valentine’s Day around the corner I was wondering what I could speak about that might refer to it. And I decided to ask about the gifts women might want for the holiday. Considering the economic woes that we all are feeling, there are fewer options today than usually are available. Still there are a few things that are options.

Of course there is the classic chocolate and flowers. It’s a standard and there is no surprise why. Women love flowers and chocolate is a known aphrodisiac. In addition there is a ton of research that states chocolate has other benefits, especially for women. It may be boring, but it is an option that really doesn’t go wrong.

There are cards of course. While inexpensive, a nice card (or maybe a naughty one if that fits) with a few well placed comments is never a bad option. Still that may not be enough. I suggest that if you choose a card, do a bit of homework and seek out a poem you can include with the card. The extra bit of effort can really add to the generic gift. Plus, for those of us less eloquent in our speech it shows there is something working in the grey matter.

But if you choose that option, be honest. Few are in the realm of T.S. Elliott, William Wordsworth, and so many other greats. You won’t fool anyone pretending you wrote their work.

Going into the realm of something original I suggest clothing. Yes I own a clothing and other consumer goods store. And yes you can find a great selection of gifts for your significant other there (over 1500 items to choose). But you don’t have to limit yourself just to my stuff (but it would be nice).

And I don’t mean some piece of lingerie that you always drool over seeing her (or him) in. Unless they love to collect such fantasy wear all year round, you are better off getting something a bit more functional or comfortable. Emphasize comfortable.

If you know she loves shoes, get her a gift card at her favorite store to buy a pair of her choice. Or maybe she needs a new robe, slippers, or pajamas. Perhaps she is thinking of a new hat for Easter or some other occasion. Maybe she needs a new dress or outfit for work.

You'll do well to give her something pragmatic, plus she will remember that you did this for her every time she wears it. Which is a year long benefit. Just get the size right.

Another different idea is to get her a couple of DVD’s. Perhaps The Princess Bride, or A Good Day To Be Black And Sexy. Or some other non-action, explosionless, plot-driven movie that she prefers (unless she is in fact a Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Jason Statham fan – lucky you). The point is that it’s a movie she wants to watch, that is romantic if she likes that, that you both can watch Valentine’s Day with a bottle of wine. And yes, you too will be watching the DVD, at least that day.

But if money is tight, like you just got a stupidly large electric bill because of an error at your electric company (thanks NYSEG), think way out the box.

How about a day of doing the laundry, cooking the meals, and a massage? Even if that means going to her and spending the day at her place. It may not be a material gift, but then again actions are louder than words I am often told. And I know of few women that don’t enjoy being pampered.

The main point I suppose is this. If you celebrate Valentine’s Day, make it an occasion. It’s not about money, as much as the media and the retailers would like you to think. It’s not about comparing material gifts, like a competition with the Jones’. It’s about your significant other.

Perhaps this will help someone out there. If it does I’m glad. Because this is a time that most of us really need the help.

And ladies, and guys too, if you can suggest things that are inexpensive yet memorable that I have missed (and I don’t doubt that there could be many) please do. Men aren’t mind readers, and if you don’t give us options, you shouldn’t be too upset if we go with the most obvious and simple choice.

A bit of pre-Super Bowl spice

Well there is some time before the Super Bowl starts, so I thought I'd add some spice in honor of Valentine's Day. Since everyone is aware that I have 18 clothing lines, and adding more regularly, with over 1500 designer items I figured I'd show off one of my latest t-shirts.



As male models go, I think I'm not bad for my age (40). Hopefully the ladies will agree. Please do be kind.

Of course this is just one of the multiple lines I have for Men's clothing. And there is no shortage of ideas that are coming up. But I like to keep the model pictures somewhat even, and of course with realistic people. Because if you think I look good in my clothing, I'm sure others will look even better.



Of course there are the photo shotos of my other models as well. Like the recent 2009 calendar model Ashley France



And 2009 male calendar model Shawn Kennedy



And from my first couple of photo shoots, Amamda Chestnut



But check out the online store for yourself. I'm sure you will find something you like, or a great gift for Valentine's Day.

And I am still looking for more models, so if you are interested do let me know.

Alone on Valentine's day? Violence is never an answer

I realize that Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and that some people just hate that. There is no joy in this consumer holiday dedicated to equating affection with a bank book, if you have no one to spend the money on. I think that was part of the motivation in a case of idocy turned violent.

Basically a woman broke up with her boyfriend. Happens all the time. The boyfriend in question though, had spent some thousands of dollars to provide her with breast implants. And obviously she wasn’t about to pay him back.

So like a violent ass, he instead decided to attack the woman and cut out the implants. Such an act I deplore. Thankfully he has been arrested, and she is alive. There is no justification for this act. It’s an act of violence against women and no male should ever act in such a manner if they in fact are a man.

Perhaps, for all those recently spurred or burned by love there is a far easier, definitely less violent, legal way to make a statement. Wear this





And it even comes in a version for guys to wear



Honestly, in all seriousness, violence against women is a horrendous act. With Valentine’s Day coming up, many depressed people do dumb things. Before you get that far, lighten up. It’s not that serious. The pain will pass. Have a beer.

But never harm anyone, especially an ex.

Happy Valentines Day

Just a simple message to all my female readers. Thank you for visiting the site, and I hope you are all having a wonderful romantic and fulfilling day. And may that feeling follow you throughout the year.

Valentine's sweat, Bilk, Grammy - winners? 2.13.2007.1

Well here is something that may help out some guys tomorrow (Valentine’s Day). Not sure if you have the right gift for your lady? Not sure how to get the right response? Well you can try this, get sweaty. Yes, researchers now say that the scent given off by sweat is an aphrodisiac causing arousal and boosting mood for women. Shocking isn’t it.

No surprise that pheromones have always played a factor in attracting a mate, but now sweat seems just as important. Of course how much sweat is another question. Science finally figured out what male strippers, and any guy just back from the gym or hard work have known for quite some time. Still, if you missed getting the right gift from my online store (you can still get something to make up for getting it wrong), this could help make things right. We’ll see.

On a different note for those without a Valentine, you may be at the local bar drowning your sorrow. If you are adventurous there is something out there that may catch your attention. If you aren’t lactose intolerant and like milk why not try Bilk. That’s beer made from milk. Yes, someone has made beer that is milk based. Now guess where this idea came from? Japan of course.

Personally I think the Germans have it down pat when it comes to beer. Milk is not my cup of tea when it comes to fermented drinks. But in a land of technological innovation and unique styles it may be the next big thing. I would love to hear from anyone who has tried it to describe the taste. I just can’t imagine it. But it’s a new take on ‘milk does a body good’.

In other silly news, the Dixie Chicks won some Grammys over the weekend. Good for them I suppose. The funny thing is that they don’t get played on country music stations and the album they won for didn’t make the top 20 last year. But this seems to go well with the extended time that they were given during the Grammy Awards show to spout their comments. It also raises the question on whether the music industry was trying to push a political agenda or actually recognizing the best album. It’s a legitimate question considering the renowned position the Dixie Chicks took in 2003.

I personally am still upset about it. They can have any view they wish, they could have had a bit better tact about making those views public. But to each their own. And country music stations still have no interest in playing the Grammy winning song, album or artists. Makes you wonder if the Grammys are as far out of touch as the Oscar Awards are.

More soon. I’m still backlogged, and there is a bunch I want to discuss on the political side with the potential candidates, in particular Senator Obama.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Romance in the world - 2.6.2007.2

As we approach Valentine’s Day, many women envision receiving gifts that perfectly express their significant others feelings for them and many men dread the fact that they have no idea what that gift might be. [Of course they may not have viewed the various gifts – Teddy Bears, jewelry boxes, journals, clothing lines and more – which I offer at my online store] Given this annual flurry of emotions I wanted to mention a couple of items that give an interesting perspective.

One of the most interesting items I’ve seen in a while takes place on an island off the west coast of Africa. Orange Island has a tradition that takes the traditional approach of man chases woman and turns them on their head. There, only the women pick the men and once chosen there is no refusal on the man’s part. This is an ancient tradition that has led to few divorces. ‘Modern’ culture is making its way on to the island, as is higher divorce rates, but most still live by the tradition. I’m not sure if, or how that might work in America – or anywhere else in the world – but it definitely would be different. Perhaps the focus should be on the ladies to identify and go after the man of their choice? [My online store has many items for men as well] Give it a try this Valentine’s Day, if you are single what have you got to lose?

A completely different way to find a mate could be the new Dutch idea of Naked Sunday workouts. It’s not exactly what you might think. This concept applies to going to a gym and working out. It seems there is a growing group of Dutch that have interest in this idea, and at least one gym is going to give it a try. I have to say I’m not sure I could do it. I’m not embarrassed about my body at all, but I do realize that I’m far from a Schwarzenegger build. Still I suppose that it would be a great motivation to improve my build a bit. I’d love to see the numbers of how many people wind up meeting and getting married after going there. It’s almost worth taking a trip to the Netherlands and finding out. Maybe when I take a vacation this year. I’ll let you know.

But focusing back here at home there is some news that is a complication to some. It seems that a recent poll of women in 10 cities finds that good clothes are more important than good sex. If that is not distressing enough, a new wardrobe is worth up to 15 months of celibacy with 2% willing to go the long haul of 3 years. Talk about killing the romantic spirit.

Get ready for this on guys. All those movies women love to watch, or books they read, that discuss the wonders of love at first site are crap. Why would I say that? 70% of the ones in the survey said that they do believe in love at first site, when it applies to clothing. Only 54% believe it in a man. Talk about materialism in action. Perhaps the worst thing is that a survey done by Unilever found that 48% of women were more sexually confident from their favorite article of clothing, as opposed to their man.

I guess that for all the men in America, getting the right clothing for you lady is the best gift for Valentine’s Day. Or anytime you give her a gift. [I better see the views go up at the online store, for your sake guys.] As for me, it sounds like a trip overseas may be the ticket.

This is what I think, what do you think?

What are you getting for Valentine's Day - 1.31.2007.2

On a completely different thought, I want to mention that I have added 2 more clothing lines at my online store www.cafepress.com/nova68. This brings the number to 12 clothing lines in total.

The latest 2 lines feature, I’m Black and proud and Respect my mind (model photos of these new clothing lines will be up after the next photo shoot). Past clothing lines include the Cowboy Ride, Nothing sexier, Battery died, Rejoice in me, I am the myth, Character is Forever and several others.

I’m sure with the well over 200 items available, you can find a unique something that will stand out for Valentine’s Day. I even have an Ex’s are Forever line for those not feeling the holiday’s spirit.

I’m not the only one mentioning that the ladies need to see something different from the same couple of roses as last year. “Many guys who are attached, semi-attached, or about-to-be-attached simply tend to run the same plays year after year, making Valentine's Day as predictable as finales of The Bachelor. Though the average man spends about $125 on Valentine's Day, he's likely not spending it in the right places… Only 1 in 5 women say they want the traditional dinner and less than that want the traditional card and flowers (about 15 percent).”

Well there you go.

By the way, if there is a design you’d like to see or any other change/addition to any of the sites, please get in touch with me. Also for those in the Binghamton area, I am always looking for models (men and women, all races and ages) for my next model shoot.

You can contact me either by going to my contact page or using info@blackentertainmentblog.com.

Golden Globes, Sundance, and Poker - 1.19.2007.1

So here are the events of the week, I have a new page just for Valentine’s day. Click on the heart and you may see something your sweetheart will enjoy. Go ahead and check it out. My other new section deals with the 2008 election and the people that would run for the Presidency. I need your support on this. Let’s get them to respond to more than just major donors and their political parties on their platforms. Check the link above, or in the sitemap for more.

As for the calendar : Mr Muhammad Ali was born on the 17th in 1942, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams was born on the 18th in 1856 – he was the first to do a successful open heart surgery.

One of the first things I want to mention is that I’m glad to see that Ms. Jennifer Hudson, Mr. Eddie Murphy, Mr. Forest Whitaker, Mr. Guillermo Del Toro, and the movies Dreamgirls and Pan’s Labyrinth have all been recognized. Each won a Golden Globe, which is a strong indication of where the Oscar’s will go. I would love to see each of these individuals, and the respective movies, win Oscar’s. It would be a sweet feather in their cap for each of them. There is no question of ability here, they deserve it. Let’s hope that the Oscar’s infamously rumored biases are put on hold and they get it right. But considering how the Oscar’s work, I doubt if more than one person in the above mentioned group will win anything. [I’ll make a guess and say it will be Ms. Hudson. While the Oscar’s rarely give the award to a new actor/actress I think they want the attention that giving it to an ex-Idol participant will generate.]

In reference to the comments by Mr. Robert Redford (a fantastic actor and solid director) at the Sundance Film Festival, I will make a brief comment. I will simply mention that equally famous, respected, qualified, talented individuals in the entertainment industry that are republican exist and I doubt they feel as he does. [Some of those people include – Mr. Denzel Washington, Mr. Jerome Bettis, Mr. Shaquille O’Neal, Mr. David Robinson, Mr. Bo Jackson, Mr. Reggie White, Mr. Tiger Woods, Mr. Karl Malone, Mr. John Hughes, Mr. Frank Capra, Mr. Bruce Willis, Mr. Quentin Tarantino and more.] I will simply state that there is more than one way to look at what the President has done, failures and missteps inclusive, and to request an apology is unwarranted. To ask it on behalf of the nation is arrogant. I don’t want an apology, nor do I wish Mr. Redford to ask for one on my behalf.

And as for the odd news going into the weekend there is the question of Poker. Is poker a game of chance or skill? It doesn’t seem too hard to figure it out. No matter how skilled you may be, it all depends on the cards you draw right? Well it’s not that simple in East London. It is a question that the courts there will be ruling on. The reason is that a private club was hosting poker games, and in England that is illegal without a gambling license. The government believes that any game of chance, which they include poker in, must be licensed. The owner of the club obviously disagrees.

This should take no time at all. It’s a silly matter that I think must be seen as a waste of the courts time. And it’s pretty simple to figure out. What are the odds of getting 4 of a kind, in a game of say 5 people. Now figure out the odds for a skilled player – the best in the world. Do the odds improve? Since they won’t the risk involved is random and thus it’s a game of chance. But that’s one American’s view. I’m sure our British cousins will work out the details and get to the same point, it just needs to be done with a stiff upper lip and the proper manners. [That’s supposed to be a joke, I realize I’m not a comedian so don’t send me letters about the lack of humor.]

This is what I think, what do you think?

What's been keeping me busy - 1.15.2007.1

I realize I'm a little behind in posting. Don't worry, I'll be back at it shortly. If you are wondering what has been taking up my time I suggest taking a look at the gift catalogue.

Of the currently 10 clothing lines, I've added photos (done by photographer Mr. Eddie Di Salvo, and models Ms. Amanda Chestnut and Mr. Ken Warren as well as myself) of some of the more recent additions.

You may be surprised that currently there are over 150 gift items to be found at my online store. You may want to check from time to time as i am consistently adding new product lines, and I try to have photo shoots to show them off when time permits.
Currently you can find Hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts, thongs, teddy bears, stamps (yes real stamps), gift cards, mugs, throw pillows, jewlery boxes, Journals, baseball caps, and mouse pads to name just a few gift items.

Valentine's Day, a birthday, a special moment, just because, for men or women, just check it out and see for yourself.

Well now you know what I've been up to. Tell your friends. Enough of my self promotion.

[Oh, if you are interested in becoming a model just send me an email and a photo and maybe you can be featured in the next product photo shoot.]