Time For Wine?

This is for my wine wine connoisseur friends! While I would love to count myself among you, I'm no wine expert, yet, but I'm hopeful to join the ranks. For now, I'm just a person that loves a good glass of wine. I'm taking in great information and learning all about it.

While it isn't time to celebrate the The New York Wine Expo's return by clanking our glasses. It is time to jump on great savings for it! So, when the time is right and the expo has come back in 2012 we can happily taste for less.

If you attended last year's expo, next year's New York Wine Expo at the Javits Convention Center is being offered at a fantastic price. If you are willing and able to purchase your tickets between now and December 31, 2011, you're in luck! Entrance can be gained for a fraction of the cost.

Regardless, it is a great event to attend. The Wine Expo includes seminars, 800 sample wines from all over the world, as well as Food and Lifestyle companies. And remember, a seminar is a good place to start. I went to one and it was amazing. It had lots of knowledge and wine!


*Posts you may enjoy:

New York Wine Expo Seminar Review
The New York Wine Expo 2011
Wine Pairing

The Charity: Ball Gala 2011

The Charity: Water Ball was a huge success! The 69th Regiment Armory was packed with fun-loving, donation-giving, party goers from all over. It was truly a great crowd, which translated into a party to remember.

There were wonderful speeches given by Scott Harrison, the Charity: Water founder and Jessica Biel, the evenings host. Tyler Perry also graced the stage as famed special guest auctioneer for the live auction.

There were a variety of unique activities this ball. There were sponsored water walks in the middle of the gala floor. There were also varied stations set up around the room to encourage charitable moments. Also included was an eclectic deejay and awesome eats.

I was stationed at the small donations wall where, the founder himself got the ball rolling by purchasing the first light bulb. The idea was to light up a village with clean water and by the end most of it was. This particular station represented a water project in Cambodia.

The ball was terrific! Great work Charity: Water!


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is In Control
January 2012
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water
'Tis His Season

December

As the month of December begins, I have been reflecting on this year. It's been a good one. It has certainly had some challenges, but I can't complain. I have accomplished a great deal within 2011. I started this blog and my website, AliceBenton.com. I also published my first novel, Beauty in Pain and wrote a second soon to be released novel, Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men; to name a few.

For you, December holds the last NYU Free Writing Class in the series that started in September. So, mark your calendar. It's also time for the Charity: Water Charity: Ball here in New York City. I can't wait and you won't want to miss it. And, the holiday season is already in full swing. Happy holidays to you all!

This month will add closure to some things. It is also ushering in a new day year. I'm looking forward to venturing into new areas in 2012. The anticipation alone has an overwhelming feel to it. I'm going to embrace December and all it has to offer because soon it will be gone.


*Posts you may enjoy:

NYU Free Writing Classes
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water

Determination

You probably know by now that I have been focused on starting the new year right. Well, in order to do that I decided to use the time left in this year as best I could. I wanted to clarify things I want completed before 2012 began, so I sat down and wrote a list. List aren't necessary, but I have always been the pen and paper or fingers to the keyboard/screen type of girl. I use them as a focal optimization point (FOP). It works for me because I have many things on my plate and do not wish to leave certain things undone.

My FOP consists of twenty-five things. Many of which have further detailed specifications to be completed. Most will not be an easy check off, nevertheless, it's what needs to be done from my point of view. As I reviewed my FOP and realized that there was little more than a month left in this year, I quietly panicked.

My youngest walked in the room and looked at my list. Her eyes immediately bulged and she said, "Whoa."

I asked, "Is it too much?"

 She looked at it again and replied, "Not if you're determined."

I picked my FOP back up and reviewed it again with my daughter's statement in mind. I am determined, after all, I created this list for a very good reason--positive forward advancement. It will be a little challenging, but I'm going to do what needs to be done. I'm not only finishing 2011 the right way, I'm taking to next year knowing I can do all things with Christ.

I invite you to make your own FOP for positive movement. It may be longer or shorter, but that doesn't matter because it simply has to be right for your life. Once you create it, be determined to see it to the end!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Distractions
I AM
Progress

Giving Thanks Daily

I had an unusual day. I love it when I experience a day or a holiday in this case that is lovely, but nothing like what I expected. This was the case for my Thanksgiving. I had a plan and even a back up plan, but I was still caught by surprise.

My day turned out to be exactly what I needed. I was happy and so was my family. There was never a dull moment, yet there were definite times of peace. There was plenty of joy to go around, which is just the way I like it.

Everyday should be occupied with giving thanks. Gratitude for God and each other are a special necessity that isn't shown enough during the year. May we all incorporate more praise into our daily lives.


*Posts you may enjoy:

A Month Before Christmas
I AM
Joyous Morning

Prince Books & Me

This afternoon's Beauty in Pain Book Signing, at Prince Books in Downtown Norfolk, went well. In fact, it was a huge success! I sold out and was able to take some great photographs that can be seen on Facebook or AliceBenton.com.

When I arrived, I was greeted by a very pleasant employee. Thank you to her and Prince Books for welcoming me into their store. After I set up my table I took a look around.



 I thought this will be good, after all, being in Norfolk is like visiting my heart. I spent a great of deal of time in Virginia when I was younger. So revisiting it felt like going home.

Thank you to everyone that joined me for the book signing! You are appreciated!


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

Facebook Pet Peeves
Miami Book Fair International 2011
Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain

Miami Book Fair International 2011

Great news! The Miami Book Fair International begins today, Sunday, November 13th! So if you're lucky enough to be in the area check it out because there are many great things to do. You have until the 20th of November to see everything, but the Street Fair is only from November18th - 20th.

There are many discussions and readings for the adults, as well as things for children. Activities for children include theater, arts-and-crafts, storytelling and readings. This annual fair is worth visiting. According the the About The Fair page, over 250 publishers, booksellers exhibit and sell books with special features.

If you would like to attend specific events visit the Schedule of Events page. The Fairgoer's Guide can also be helpful too. So head out there and buy books!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Beauty in Pain Book Signing - VA
The Black Love Book Discussion
Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain?

New Year Joy

I'm starting to feel absolutely fantastic about next year. Right now it's just a feeling, but I fully intend on carrying that sentiment into the reality of 2012. I'm ecstatic about all that is in front of me. I have clear goals and I see them as obtainable.

This year has been successful in many ways and I expect nothing less from the one to come. Actually, I'm looking for more wins in 2012. That doesn't mean that I'll accomplish every objective. It only signifies that I am ready and willing to help things along in a positive manner.

Starting out with a complimentary attitude helps to move things in the right direction. Evaluate your new year vibes today. Will you have post count down blues or joy? Prepare yourself for triumph!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Expectations
Ideas Should Materialize
Looking Forward
Victory Is Yours!

Breakfast in Brooklyn

This mornings Books & Breakfast Event held at The Archives Restaurant & Bar located in the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge was fascinating! Breakfast was shared with friends and family, which included author, Rose Hester-Lavenburg and aspiring writers. We had a ball. Luckily I found that a great way to bring people together is with food and books.

Everyone agreed that the buffet style breakfast was delicious. The only thing I regret is not tasting more edible delights, although the reviews around the tables were great. There was everything from muffins, danishes and fruit to bacon, waffles and a variety of sausage. There were countless other items, but my favorite was the western made for me fresh on the spot.

We talked about my novel, Beauty in Pain and it was wonderful! I loved hearing thoughts from the group. I discussed some of my favorite parts like the prison visit and chapter 13. While others talked about their own favored sections. We carefully discussed some of Beauty in Pain because there were some guest who had just received their copy...we may have to hold a discussion.


*Posts you may enjoy:

My Beauty in Pain Review Part I
My Beauty in Pain Review Part II
The Black Love Book Discussion
Rose Hester-Lavenburg & Poems for Benjamin

Beauty in Pain Book Signing - VA

Once again, I am going back on the road! I am happy to announce that my next stop on the Beauty in Pain Book Tour is in Norfolk, VA. and I'm elated! Virginia has always been near and dear to my heart.

My book signing will be held at Prince Books. It is located in downtown Norfolk on the corner of Main Street and Martin's Lane in the Towne Bank Building.  The signing will be on Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

If you will be in or around the area stop by and pick up your copy of my novel, Beauty in Pain. Come out and join me. I'm looking forward to a successful book signing and I hope to see you there!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Books & Breakfast in NYC
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain
Where Can I Get Beauty In Pain?

Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain?

As I make my rounds throughout New York City or even in the social media realm, many people have asked me one question. Where can I get your novel, Beauty in Pain? I am always eager to supply an answer and this post is an attempt to further do so.

Beauty in Pain, is mostly available online. That means you can pick which ever online source you're most comfortable with, like Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble, among many others and order it there. You may also get your copy from AliceBenton.com or by using the Amazon Search Sidebar Gadget on this blog.

If you're in New York City too, the Barnes & Noble bookstore located inside of the Fordham University Lincoln Center Campus (Corner of 60th Street and Columbus Avenue) has copies of Beauty in Pain in the Campus Author section. Those of you in Maryland can stop by Greetings & Readings in Hunt Valley to pick up a copy.

Get your copy today...happy reading!


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

AliceBenton.com
Beauty in Pain - Available Now
Books & Breakfast in NYC
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain
The Black Love Book Discussion

Happy Birthday Alfred!

Happy birthday Alfred P! Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very happy birthday! I hope today is wonderful for you and that you enjoy all that it brings! God bless.

Books & Breakfast in NYC

November will be ushering in a Beauty in Pain Event in NYC entitled, Books & Breakfast! It will be held at The Archives Restaurant & Bar located inside the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. Breakfast includes a complete selection of hot buffet items.

This affair will be held on Sunday, November 6, 2011. It begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 12:30 p.m. There will be a brief welcome and introduction at 10:30 a.m., which leaves plenty of time to eat and mingle. Guests are encouraged to bring their previously purchased Beauty in Pain novels, although, books will also be available for purchase. Towards the end of the event there will be a book signing.

Come out & meet the author, but hurry and secure your ticket because space is limited. Send an email if you are interesting in attending to avbenton@gmail.com or visit AliceBenton.com


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

AliceBenton.com
My Beauty in Pain Review Part I
My Beauty in Pain Review Part II
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain

Columbus Day

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a happy Columbus Day! This holiday celebrates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the new world. It has been celebrated as early as the 18th century, but became a national holiday in the United States in 1937.

Increasingly through the years it has been a controversial holiday. It is for that reason that alternatives to the celebration have gained some popularity. Sites like History.com list both historical accounts, as well as controversy.

Have a blessed day!


*A post you may enjoy:

The 67th Annual Columbus Day Parade NYC 2011

2012 On My Mind

Yes, I know it's October, but this is the time to start thinking about the year ahead. I have 2012 on my mind and you should too! I know it's a little early, but I'm only asking that you think about it. There's no need for action unless you want to be proactive. Make a mental plan. Simply give some serious thought as to what you want to see materialize in your life next year.

Once you're certain about your vision for 2012, then you can move on to the next step. Keep in mind that you should take your time with these thoughts to optimize your chance for success. Next month, you can move into action.

Use the month of November to put your plans on paper or a spreadsheet. Edit and revise as much as you need. Then use the rest of the 2011 to finalize your decisions, including a schedule and any assistance you deem necessary.

Start the new year right. Focus on your life!


*Posts you may enjoy!

Expectations
Ideas Should Materialize
What's On Your Agenda?

The 67th Annual Columbus Day Parade NYC 2011

According to about.com, the Columbus Day Parade will be held on Monday, October 10th from 11:30 to 3:00 p.m. It begins on 5th Avenue at 44th Street and continues along 5th Avenue to 79th Street. This parade is one of the largest celebrations of Italian-American culture.

The Columbus Day Mass at Saint Patrick's Cathedral, which is at 50th Street and 5th Avenue starts at 9:30 a.m. Make sure you join in on the fun and festivities! Be sure to arrive early because many are expected to crowd the streets. If you're not into large crowds, please remember you can also view this wonderful parade live online at abc7.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Big Dreamer
Saint Michael - Saint Malachy Roman Catholic Church in Brooklyn
Spa Week NYC 2011

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2011

Did you know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Probably! It's hard to miss all the things that have suddenly turned pink. Some of us have been planning for this month well in advance, while the rest of us need a little push.

It's not to late to participate! Susan G Komen for the Cure has listed many ways for you to get involved. The organization has created a schedule of ways to help the cause this month. You only have to be willing. So take a look and find something that's right for you.

Please remember that breast cancer doesn't only affect women. Men are also diagnosed with it. Get the breast facts for men.  Also check out the American Cancer Society website. They are the official sponsor of More Birthdays, as well as a great resource for learning about cancer in general and how to stay healthy.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Inspiration
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water
Victory Is Yours!

Happy Birthday Harriet!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes Harriet P. a very special birthday! Turning 21+tax is exciting! I hope you get everything you want because you deserve the best. God bless you and enjoy!

Happy Birthday Jackie!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes Jackie PH a very happy birthday! I hope you enjoy your special day! May God bless and keep you all the rest of your days in Jesus' name, amen.

Saint Michael – Saint Malachy Roman Catholic Church in Brooklyn

I have long missed the days of what I consider the old style Catholic Church Activities. When I was growing up Saint Fortunata on Linden Blvd held many things for their church goers to do. Well, I found a place of worship that does things like I remember it. Saint Michael – Saint Malachy Roman Catholic Church has two events coming up: a flea market and a carnival.

The Church is located at 225 Jerome Street in Brooklyn, NY. The Flea Market is on Sunday, October 2, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the St. Michael Parish parking lot on the corner of Liberty Avenue and Warwick Street. There will be food and beverages sold too. Come out and show support! You might even find a few deals.

The carnival will be held from October 7 – 12, 2001. There will games and rides for everyone. So, bring the entire family. Please remember it is a church event; volunteers and donations are welcome!

*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is In Control
God's Gift
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water