Several years ago, our own justbob came up with the current name, “DeBlog,”  but it just doesn’t seem to be holding, as everyone calls it Jason’s Blog. What can possible override that?

The study found a nearly two-fold increase in the risk of pancreatic cancer among people who consumed at least two carbonated, sugar-sweetened beverages per week compared to those who did not consume soft drinks.

According to U of M Researcher Mark Pereira, “people who drink soda release a jolt of insulin into their pancreas, which may overwhelm the organ.”

But the study is based on “the dietary habits of more than 60,000 Chinese people who were observed for 14 years.” Uh.. what does this mean? That pop causes pancreatic cancer in Chinese people? Do other dietary habits come into play? And where the heck did they find 60,000 Chinese people in Minnesota? (Actually, our Asian population is twice that, but still… clearly the study was not conducted in Minnesota.)

Regardless, stop drinking that soda!

A group of students at the High School for Recording Arts in St. Paul wrote a song and produced a music video urging others to donate to Haiti. Their YouTube video has gotten over 128,000 hits with over 450 comments. And they performed the song Jan. 30 in front of a crowd of hundreds at the Mall of America, and Jan. 31 at the Dakota Jazz Club and Restaurant in Minneapolis.

Sixth-graders at St. John Vianney School raised money from their own classmates. “In exchange for a donation, students could ditch their uniforms and wear clothes the color of a rainbow. The Rainbow for Haiti project generated $420 in a week.”

Andersen Elementary students, in Bayport, decorated soup cans for collecting money and raised $933 so far from the school community. “Next month, the students will work as servers and hosts and do other jobs at Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop in Stillwater. They plan to donate a portion of their tips to helping Haiti.”

And a group of Maple Grove High School students have even started a fundraiser called Hair Dying for Haiti, for which they’ve died their hair pink, purple, green and blue in hopes to raise money.

Huh?

Their efforts, along with other fundraisers by Maple Grove students, have raised $3,000 so far.

It’s been more than a decade since “Amy,” as she’s known in court papers, was first sexually abused by her uncle. The abuse ended long ago and he’s in prison, but the pictures he made when she was 8 or 9 are among the most widely circulated child pornography images online.

Should Amy get paid for the images that she claims hurt her every time they are viewed?

In Minnesota last month, a federal judge ordered prosecutors to explain why they didn’t ask for restitution in a case involving images of Amy.

A number of victims across the country have come forward seeking restitution from people who were caught with videos and pictures of their abuse. Now, judges are trying to figure out whether someone who obtains a picture taken years ago is directly responsible for the harm suffered by the victim. If the answer is yes, judges have the added complication of figuring out what amount is justified.

The blogger refers to this as a sexualized pose, to which many commenters have pointed out that her tucked position is indicative of the sport.  The author has followed-up, pointing out that while this is a skiing pose, it is not occuring “in action” and stands by her assertion as being sexual and objectifying the woman subject.

As a knucle-dragging male, I find it a stretch to think this image in any way sexualizes or objectifies Lindsey Vonn or in any way diminishes the contribution of women in sports.

So just how turned on are you?

Local literati read their own work or some of their faves as they riff on love, hate, community, family—whatever their hearts desire! The line-up includes Antay Bilgutay, Jill Breckenridge, Carol Connolly, Pat Dennis, David Grant, Heid Erdrich, Phebe Hanson, C.M. Harris, James Lenfestey, Ardie Medina, Tim Nolan, Jonathan Odell, Lynette Reini-Grandell, Faith Sullivan, Katrina Vandenberg, and Bryan Thao Worra. Guaranteed to be an evening full of mirth, meaning, and, yup, love.  This amusing look at love is the final Raking through Books event at the old Kieran’s location; in March they move to Block E. Presented by The Loft Literary Center and Secrets of the City, with support by KFAI Radio, the University of Minnesota Bookstore, and Kieran’s.

5:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 9, Kieran’s Irish Pub; 330 – 2nd Av. S., Minneapolis ]]> http://www.secretsofthecity.com/deals/fifth-annual-literary-love-fest/feed 0 http://www.secretsofthecity.com/deals/guide-to-holiday-shopping-events http://www.secretsofthecity.com/deals/guide-to-holiday-shopping-events#comments Sun, 07 Feb 2010 06:10:21 +0000 Kate Iverson http://www.secretsofthecity.com/?p=18339 by Jahna Peloquin

It’s Valentine’s Day this weekend, and you know what that means – an excuse to shop. Buy something for your sweetie, your BFF, or yourself at these Valentine’s Day sales this week.

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 7-14:

Friday: I’m Sick But I’m Pretty
What: Get pretty for Valentine’s Day with pink champagne, Pink Cake pops, and a lash bar while you shop with your friends at designer resale boutique June. National makeup artist Suzy Martin will be on hand from BECCA Cosmetics offering up complimentary mini makeovers.
When: 6-9 p.m. Feb. 12.
Where: June, 3406 S. Lyndale Ave., Mpls. 612-354-3970.

[Ringo in the Electric Fetus tee at the Grammys]

Tuesday-Sunday: Electric Fetus Valentine’s Day Sale & MinnEconomy
What: Celebrate love day at beloved local record store by saving 20 percent off almost everything and 10 percent off all Electric Fetus branded merchandise, including the now-ubiquitous Electric Fetus t-shirt donned by Ringo Starr at the Grammys. (Exclusions are tickets, tobacco, gift cards, and a few other items.) Head there on Thursday for this month’s edition of MinnEconomy, where the Ringo shirt designer will be on hand in addition to live in-store sets from Minor Kingdom and Anders Ponders.
When: Sale: Feb. 9-14. MinnEconomy: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 11.
Where: Electric Fetus, 2000 4th Ave. S., Mpls. 612-870-9300.

Thursday: La Bratique Private Boutique Grand Opening
What: What could be more Valentine’s-appropriate than trying on pretty lingerie and sipping champagne while nibbling on chocolate? The expert bra fitters of high-end bra boutique La Bratique is celebrating the grand opening of its new private boutique. Meet Tracy Anderson, owner and expert bra fitter, see the selection of high quality designer bras, experience one-in-one service, learn what constitutes a well-fitting bra and enjoy champagne and chocolates. For one day only, you can sign up for a complimentary private fitting and 25 percent off regular priced merchandise.
When: Feb. 11. 1-3 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.
Where: La Bratique, 5007 France Ave. S., 2nd floor, Mpls. 612-325-6620.

Friday: “Thrift Children: Phuture Psyence” at Cliché
What: Part of local boutique Cliché’s ongoing art series from up-and-coming local artists, illustrator Matt Rector will be showing his retro-futuristic illustrations. The opening reception also includes live music from Snare & Racquet, wine and hors d’oeuvres, and 20 percent off all clothing and accessories.
When: Friday, February 12, 7-10 p.m.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Ave S., Mpls. 612-870-0420.

[Chanel Spring 2010 RTW. Photo: Monica Feudi / GoRunway.com]

Friday: Chanel Trunk Show at Nordstrom
What: Regardless of the state of our pocketbooks, we can’t turn down the chance to see Chanel runway up close and personal. The collection is sure to be abbreviated from the lush black and white, flowy styles we saw on the runway but it should be darling nonetheless. A representative will be on hand to assist with selections and answer questions.
When: Friday, February 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Nordstrom Mall of America, Floor Two, Bloomington. 952-883-2121, ext. 1350.

Saturday: Belle Reve Manicure Event
What: Want to get ready for your big Valentine’s Date and save some cash? Swing by Northeast boutique Belle Reve for a complimentary manicure by Wendy Kjedahl of Salon Sa-Bel – and pick out the perfect dress for your date.
When: Feb. 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Belle Reve, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Mpls. Call 612-333-3148 to make an appointment.

Saturday: MODE Designer Shoe Event
What: The only thing better than designer shoes? Designer shoes for insane deals. At MODE’s Designer Shoe Event, find more than five hundred swoon-worthy pairs of shoes from forty luxe labels including Marc Jacobs and Cole Haan for $40 a pop.
When: Feb. 13, beginning at 9 a.m.
Where: MODE, 7781 Main St., Maple Grove. 763-391-6102.

Saturday: Arc’s Half-off Sale
What: Arc’s Value Village thrift stores are having a storewide 50 percent off sale. Be sure to head to their vintage and designer sections first; they also have great vintage neckties and other accessories.
When: Feb. 13.
Where: Brooklyn Center, New Hope, Richfield, St. Paul, 651-788-8300. Visit www.arcsvaluevillage.com for location info.

Friday-Sunday: Selby & Snelling Special Offers
What: Redeem your receipts totaling $100 from any combination of stores at Selby and Snelling at the “kissing booth” on the corner and get a free Shimmer Puff. Stores include Flirt lingerie, Lula’s Vintage Wear, Up Six Vintage, Go Vintage, Everyday People, Patina, and eateries including O’Gara’s Bar & Grill, The Neighborhood Cafe, Two Smart Cookies, and Cosmic Coffee.
When: Feb. 12-14.
Where: Selby & Snelling Avenues, St. Paul.

[Juliet & Romeo cocktail at Bradstreet; photo by Tom Wallace for Star Tribune]

Through Sunday: Juliet & Romeo Drink Special at Bradstreet
What: In honor of its Juliet & Romeo Cocktail being listed in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine as the “Sexiest Cocktail” in the Twin Cities, Bradstreet is offering a half off special on the drink if you mention the honor when ordering.
When: Through Feb. 14.
Where: Bradstreet Craftshouse at Graves 601 Hotel, 601 N. 1st Ave., Mpls. 612-312-1821.

[Jewelry at Walker Gift Shop by Silver Cocoon]

Through Sunday: Valentine’s Deals at Walker Gift Shop
What: Newly-stocked at Walker’s sublime Gift Shop are handmade treasures by top national and local jewelry designers. Through Valentine’s Day, enjoy complimentary gift packaging for in-store jewelry purchases. And as always, members save 10 percent on all purchases.
When: Through Feb. 14.
Where: Walker Gift Shop, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. 612-375-7633.

[Lingerie from Flirt]

Through Sunday: Flirt & Azia Special Offer
What: Receive a coupon for a free cocktail at popular Asian fusion eatery Azia with any purchase at Flirt lingerie boutique. Doubling your savings, with any dinner purchase at Azia, receive a coupon for 10 percent off at Flirt in the month of March. Throughout the month of February, you can also receive a coupon for 25 percent off one item in March at Flirt.
When: Feb. 7-14.
Where: Flirt, 177 Snelling Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-3692 & Azia, 2550 Nicollet Av., Mpls. 612-813-1200.

[Leather goods by Rapport]

Thursday-Saturday: W7 Collective’s Uncommon Market
What: The W7 Collective – a consortium of local crafters and artisans – presents its “Uncommon Market” monthly pop-up shop in St. Paul the second weekend of each month. This month, shop for handmade soaps, handbags from Rapport and POST-, and modern art-inspired jewelry by Silver Cocoon. Friday’s event includes treats, drinks and live music.
When: Thursday, February 11-Saturday, February 13: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.
Where: The Pilney Building, 1032 W. 7th St., St. Paul.

[T-shirt by Signorelli at Drama]

Through Thursday: Refer a Friend at Drama
What: Come in anytime by Feb. 11 and bring a friend – you’ll both get 20 percent off your entire purchase. While you’re there, check out the latest delivery from Save the Earth partners Signorelli – the fun tees are under $50.
When: Through Thursday, February 11.
Where: 1203 Lagoon Ave., Mpls. 612-338-9423.

[Alexander McQueen's lip scarf at OPM]

Saturday: OPM Date Night
What: Every Saturday through Valentine’s Day, high-end boutique OPM is giving you the chance to grab your girls and shop for your Valentine’s outfits – or pick out gifts for yourselves. (We’re thinking their silk Alexander McQueen “lips” scarf will make the perfect addition to our Valentine’s Day outfit.) Sip wine, sample chocolates from Max’s, and enter the weekly raffle for swanky prizes.
When: 3-6 p.m. Saturdays, ongoing through Saturday, February 13.
Where: 3700 Grand Way, St. Louis Park. 952-567-7399.
[Mulberry suede Bayswater clutch at OPM]

Through Sunday: Corset Stock Up and Save Sale
What: Personal styling service/boutique Corset is having its stock up and save sale. It includes 50 percent off all regular-priced merchandise, and if you purchase five or more items, you’ll have the opportunity to draw for an additional 5, 10 or 20 percent off.
When: Ongoing through February 14.
Where: 715 Main St., Hopkins, 952-224-2495.

[A look from Details Style Lab]

Through Sunday: Details Sweater Sale
What: Fellas need gifts for Valentine’s Day, too. Buy one sweater from lines like Skunkfunk, Bertigo, and Ben Sherman and receive 20 percent off; buy two and take 30 percent off; and buy three to receive 40 percent off.
When: Ongoing through Sunday, February 14.
Where: 346 St. Peter St., St. Paul, 651-251-8700.

[Bowtie by Pierrepont Hicks]

Through Sunday: Pierrepont Hicks Valentine’s Day Sale
What: Snag a deapper gift for your sweetie during locally-based neckwear company Pierrepont Hicks’ Valentine’s Day Sale. Now through the big day, take up to 20 percent off select neckties and bowties (regularly priced at $59-89) at the line’s webstore.
When: Ongoing through Sunday, February 14.

Where: www.pierreponthicks.com

ONGOING:

Through Mar. 6: StyledLife Winter Sale

What: StyledLife doesn’t have many sales, so when they do, it’s big. The local designer accessories boutique is taking 20 to 70 percent off almost everything in the store, including 20 percent off new arrivals, and labels like Pucci, Missoni, Valentino, Dunhill and Y-3 that are rarely found on sale. That includes designer bags, jewelry, scarves and gifts (exclusions are vintage and music). All items go back to regular price after the sale, so don’t hold off too long.
When: Through Saturday, March 6.
Where: StyledLife, Galleria, 3510 W. 70th St., Edina. 952-928-8888.

[A runway-inspired look from Runway Rundown]

Through Mar. 31: Runway Rundown “Spread the Word” Promotion
What: Locally-based get-the-look-for-less website Runway Rundown is growing at a smooth and steady pace, but they’re looking for a little bump in viewership – and they want help from their hometown. So they’re running a contest over the next couple of months; all you need to do is create a Runway Rundown account, and then refer your friends to join. The more people you refer, the better chance you have of winning. The current prize is a $50 ShopBob gift certificate.
When: Ongoing through March 31.
Where: www.runwayrundown.com.

[Cliché dresses by Jenny Carle and Renate Adjei. Image by Joe Johnson/Styling by l’etoile agency for Cliché]

Cliché Winter Sale
What: Beloved local boutique Cliché is taking 20 percent off all fall merchandise in store – that includes local designed lines like Amanda Christine and Jenny Carle, national brands such as Kenzie Girl and Billabong, and accessories. Select exclusions apply. Look for a red sale tag coming soon.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Ave S., Mpls. 612-870-0420.

[Fall 2009 boots by Golden Goose at Pumpz & Co.]

Pumpz & Co. Winter Sale
What: Designer shoe boutique Pumpz & Co. is slashing prices on its fall and winter collections. Take 70 percent off designer boots, heels and handbags from the likes of Fiorentini & Baker, Mulberry, Golden Goose, Kooba, and Stuart Weitzman.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Pumpz & Co., 3335 Galleria, Edina. 952-926-2252.

Photogen-inc. book for Haiti
What: Local photographer Eliesa Johnson of Photogen-inc. is selling her photography book The Film [Camera] Book with all proceeds going toward Haiti relief efforts. Check out her video explaining why here.
When: Ongoing.
Where: $60 at Photogen-inc.com.

Mehera Shaw Winter Sale
What: Through March, Indian-styled boutique Mehera Shaw is offering 50 to 70 percent off sale items in-store and online at www.meheranshaw.com. Winter hours are Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
When: Ongoing through March 31.
Where: 2004 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. 612-974-9115

Elsworth Menswear Sale
What: Dapper gents, get your style fix with the huge discounts we’re seeing at Elsworth Menswear beginning this week. Keith Dorsett and co. are taking 50 to 70 percent off everything in the store. That includes fall offerings from Armand Basi, Billtorande, Cold Method, LTB, Donald Pliner shoes, and Kenneth Cole Collection shoes. Plus, all suits and sportcoats are $200 off, and all shoes are 20 percent off.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Elsworth, 811 LaSalle Av., Mpls. 612-339-0763.

Atmosfere Winter Sale
What: Atmosfere is offering men’s and women’s coats, hats, gloves, scarves and sweaters at 50 percent off. Everything else at the store is 30 percent off or more.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: 1426 W. Lake St., Mpls. 612-332-0381.

[Sale items at Picky Girl]

Picky Girl Winter Sale
What: St. Paul boutique Picky Girl is kicking off its winter sale with 25 to 60 percent off all regular-priced clothing, shoes and accessories, with offerings from national lines like Kenzie Girl and Covet, and local darlings Calpurnia Peach.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Picky Girl, 949 Grand Ave., St. Paul. 651-698-4107.

[Ladyslipper photographed by David J. Turner]

Bluebird & Ladyslipper Winter Sales
What: 50th & France sister boutiques Ladyslipper and Bluebird Boutique are offering discounts of 50 to 70 percent on fall and winter merchandise, including fall boots at shoe shop Ladyslipper and clothing at Bluebird. Brands include Loeffler Randall shoes, Frye boots, Vincent clothing and J Brand jeans.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Bluebird: 3909 W. 50th St., Mpls. 952-746-8675. Ladyslipper: 4940 France Ave., Mpls. 952-224-1900.

Christopher Straub Online Sale
What: Local designer celeb Christopher Straub is having a huge New Year’s sale on his website, www.ChristopherStraub.com, including his “Looky Lu” belts at 75 percent off.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: www.ChristopherStraub.com

Belle Reve Winter Sale

What: Belle Reve is taking 20 to 90 percent off everything, including a ton of backstock from past seasons.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Belle Reve, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-333-3148.

["Conquest" by Rudy Fig]

Rudy Fig Closeout Art Sale
What: One of our favorite local painters, Rudy Fig, is trying to clear out her studio by putting many of her pieces for sale with huge discounts, many pieces at as much as 50 percent off. It’s a rare chance to buy a piece by the up-and-coming artist before her prices really go up. And hurry, they’re already going fast!
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Rudy Fig’s Flickr page

[Atalanta Weller for House of Holland platform strap wedge is 40% off]

Shop Fatal Winter Sale
What: Minneapolis-based online boutique Shop Fatal’s winter sale is still going on. Score discounts of 30 to 80 percent off almost everything on the site, including House of Holland one-of-a-kind dresses, shoes and boots at 40 to 50 percent off; Bernhard Willhelm at 40 to 60 percent off; and Daniel Palillo FW/09 at 40 to 50 percent off. New markdowns are on the way for the winter sale, with some things already have been reduced, including Daniel Palillo’s Alien Puff jacket now $298 (reg. $740).
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: www.shopfatal.com

Ongoing: Winter Sale at Stephanie’s
What: Both of Stephanie’s locations in Highland Park and 50th & France are taking 50 to 70 percent off fall and winter merchandise. In other news, the store is planning to close its 50th & France location, opting to keep open its popular Highland Park boutique and focus on opening an online shop. No blowout sale is planned for the closing storefront.
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: Highland Park: 758 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul. 651-690-3802; 50th & France: 5005 France Ave. S., Mpls. 612-929-2087.

[F-Troupe at BlackBlue]

BlackBlue Shoe Sale
What: UK brand F-Troupe, represented out of the Opening Ceremony showroom in NYC, is now on sale at St. Paul boutique BlackBlue. Take 25 percent off any pair of F-Troupes in both men’s and women’s styles, while supplies last, as well as men’s Generic Surplus footwear. (While you’re there, check out new men’s denim line, A.P.C. from France.)
When: Ongoing while supplies last.
Where: BlackBlue, 614 Selby Ave., St. Paul.

Good news: The walleye harvest quotas for Mille Lacs Lake have been raised slightly for 2010.

And if you’d rather not get your hands dirty (or your ass cold), you can still enjoy a little fishing of sorts by attending the Fly Fishing Film Tour in March. Really? A fly fishing film tour? Wow.

(Can someone please explain how delaying payment helps to balance anything. According to state law, payments must be made by May 30th anyhow.)

Already, the Prior Lake-Savage School Board has responded to the reduction by cutting $3.7 million from its 2010-2011 budget. Seems like they’re not planning on seeing that money at all, eh?

The teachers’ union is planning its own counterattack, of course, and if you’re still planning on watching the Super Bowl — despite the lack of Vikings (and The Who playing CSI theme songs) — you’ll likely catch an the onset of Education Minnesota’s new TV ad campaign against budget cutters targeting schools to erase the deficit.

“There’s been much speculation about cutting education to solve the budget crisis,” [Education Minnesota President Tom] Dooher said at a news conference. “But cutting education is the wrong move at the wrong time. … Now is the time to protect it, reform the way we pay for it and make it our top priority. … Minnesota stands to lose its position as the nation’s leader in education, not because another state took it from us, but because Minnesota gave it away.”

Somehow, I doubt a four-day school week is the answer. But that’s exactly what is happening in school districts in west central and northern Minnesota.

Make no mistake about it: These decisions were entirely financial in nature. While school leaders intend to put the savings back into the classroom, and they certainly don’t want to see test scores, graduation rates or other measures of academic achievement fall, their main interest was not to better student achievement but to simply keep the doors open.

Meanwhile, Bernadeia Johnson, deputy superintendent of the Minneapolis schools, is preparing to take the reigns as the district’s superintendent. What does she have in mind? Watch this video and find out.

Hopefully, she’ll address the issue that Minnesota was among the lower tier finishers in a national report on practices for training, evaluating, and retaining quality teachers — scoring an overall D-minus. It seems we’re using “broken, outdated, and inflexible” policies that ultimately hurt how children learn. Oh, my. And on top of that, we’re breaking their backs!