Simply Sophie D.

Reminder about your invitation from Sophia Davis

2011-12-19T04:03:00.000-05:00

This is a reminder that on December 7, Sophia Davis sent you an invitation to become part of their professional network at LinkedIn.

Accept Sophia Davis's Invitation

On December 7, Sophia Davis wrote:

> To: [sophia.davis.newpost@blogger.com]

> From: Sophia Davis [sophia.davis@gmail.com]

> Subject: Invitation to connect on LinkedIn

> I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.
>
> - Sophia

You are receiving Reminder emails for pending invitations. Unsubscribe.

Oh so Fattening Cranberry Orange Muffins

2011-05-04T10:50:00.000-04:00

Quite frankly, I'd be lying to you if I said my muffins were a low calorie eat. There's nothing scrumptious in life that doesn't have a stick of butter.

Ingredients
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
⅔ cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 large grated orange zest
juice from 1 grated orange
2 cups sour cream
¾ cup dried cranberries
½ cup drained jellied whole cranberries

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375.
Grease muffin cups & dust with flour or line with paper liners.
Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a medium mixing bowl.
Whisk together cooled melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, orange zest and sour cream in a separate mixing bowl.
With a wooden spoon, stir in the flour mixture until just combined.
Cut grated orange in half and squeeze juice onto batter. Fold in cranberries.
Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full. Bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
For small muffins, bake for 20-24 minutes, for larger muffins, bake for 25-30 minutes.
Let the muffins cool for about 5 minutes, and enjoy.

Edible, Lovable, and might I add . . .colorful Rice Krispie Treats on a stick!

2011-04-21T12:14:00.000-04:00

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
4 cups mini marshmallows

4 cups Rice Krispies cereal

3 cups of Fruity Pebbles cereal

Non-stick cooking spray

Pretty popsicle sticks

Seasonal ribbon

Step 1

Melt butter in medium size saucepan, add mini marshmallows

Step 2

Pour Rice Krispies and Fruity Pebbles cereal into large mixing bowl, add butter and marshmallows, mix

Step 3

Evenly coat 13x9 baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pour & Pat Krispie Treat mix into baking pan evenly, wait 30 minutes

Step 4

Cut treats into rectangles, insert Pretty Popsicle sticks, decorate with seasonal ribbon, enjoy, repeat

Deco-Podge for Easter

2011-04-18T11:15:00.001-04:00

Using dye is so last year . . . . try decorating your Easter eggs with decoupage this year!

Supplies needed:

1. Large plastic eggs

2. Scraps of colorful fabric

3. Jar of Mod Podge <--- just about the coolest jar of goop any craft queen could need.

4. One dainty sponge brush

5. Small decorative accents: (I used rhinestones and fabric flowers.)

Spring Has Arrived! Garden Wreaths & Birds Oh My!

2011-04-15T19:30:00.001-04:00

Since it's finally starting to feel like spring here in Ohio . . . . half way through the month of April . . . I decided to make a new wreath for my front door.

This wreath was easy to construct and looks fabulous!

Supplies needed:

grapevine wreath, moss, cute woodland animals, hot glue gun, and a dash of creativity!

Glazed Blueberry Lemon Bread

2010-05-11T10:05:00.001-04:00

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup butter

1 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2 cups sifted flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

2 tbsp grated lemon rind (I probably added about 3 tbsp)

1/2 cup milk

½ cup plain vanilla yogurt

1 1/2 cups blueberries, lightly tossed in flour (I used almost 2 cups)

GLAZE

3 tbsp granulated sugar
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

DIRECTIONS 

Cream butter. Gradually blend in sugar and eggs. Beat until light and fluffy.
 In a separate bowl, blend together flour, baking powder, salt and lemon rind.
Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture alternately with milk.
Gently stir in blueberries.
 Pour batter into a greased 5 x 9″ loaf pan.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 55 – 60 minutes or until loaf springs back when lightly touched. Cool on cake rack for 5 minutes.
 Combine sugar and lemon juice. Pour entire lemon mixture over the hot loaf.

Writings on the Wall: A Weekend To Release Your Inner Child.

2010-03-22T05:22:00.001-04:00

For weeks I’ve been craving a “creative space” in my quaintly small but cozy studio apartment. Frantically puzzled on how I could create a comfortable art space without the mass, I felt a chalkboard wall was exactly what I needed. 

{I mean why not? Certainly this is the only time in my life where I can earnestly quantify writing on my wall. I live by myself, thus I let my free spirit be my guide! }

After

Before

This project only took one weekend to complete. The majority of my time was wasted on safeguarding the ceiling and baseboards from sneaky black paint splatters. 

Nevertheless, four coats later – voilà! 

I had a new accent wall for my apartment and a wonderful artistic space to tickle my imagination. 

Tools needed:

1 Gallon Chalkboard Paint

1 Paint Brush

30 ft of Blue Wall Tape

1 Childish Imagination

Simply Divine Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

2010-02-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Adapted from Quaker Oats

Ingredients:

½ cup Butter softened (1 stick)

3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups old fashioned Quaker® Oats

2/3 cup raisins

Preparation:

Heat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until creamy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt; mix well. Add oats and raisins; mix well.

Drop round tablespoon balls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until light golden Brown. Cool on cookie sheets completely. Store tightly covered.

Makes 18-24 cookies.

Girl Scouts Press Release on Earthquake in Haiti

2010-01-15T18:01:00.002-05:00

Earthquake in Haiti

As many of you know, the earthquake in Haiti has literally decimated the lives of millions of Haitians across the globe. As a young woman of West Indian decent, this natural disaster has truly touched home. I encourage you to take action now, and donate to one of the following organizations to help our fellow brothers and sisters so close to home. Below is a wonderful press release from the Girl Scouts of the USA organization in regards to actions your daughters, families, and friends can take to help families in Haiti.

Our thoughts go out to all the families, friends and colleagues who have been affected by the tragic earthquake that has devastated Haiti . As Girl Scout s, our motto of being prepared has never been more poignant in light of the tragedy in Haiti . Our Council has received many calls of concern wanting to know how girls and troops can help.

Please read this important message from GSUSA CEO Kathy Cloninger regarding the suspension of GSUSA's policy on fundraising for outside organizations:

"In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, the National Board suspended the policy that prohibits Girl Scout s from raising money for other organizations. We are working with the Executive Committee of the board to suspend this policy once again. We will keep you informed of any action. In the meantime, all Girl Scout s councils should work though their local community groups to assist in relief efforts.

The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scout s (WAGGGS) has issued a list of organizations that are accepting donations for relief efforts. I have included the list below. WAGGGS is also reminding all Girl Scout s that the theme of World Thinking Day this year is "ending extreme poverty and hunger." The tragic events in Haiti can clearly serve as a way to educate our girls about the issues ofextreme poverty and hunger throughout the world.

It is at times like these that Girl Scout s throughout the world come together in sisterhood and to take action to help those in need. We have seen our Movement rally in support of the victims of Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters over the years, and I know that all of us in Girl Scout ing will do everything we can to help Haiti and its people in the weeks and months ahead."

Click on the links below to donate or learn more information about ways you can help through these trusted organizations.

The American Red Cross is accepting donations through its International Response Fund.
Pan American Development Foundation is encouraging people to donate through its Web site at http://www.panameri canrelief. org/.
UNICEF requests donations for relief for children in Haiti via their Haiti Earthquake Fund. You can also call 1-800-4UNICEF.
Oxfam has an online donation system at http://www.oxfamame rica.org/.
Save the Children has launched an emergency relief effort for Haiti . Donate to Save the Children.

Mercy Corps Donate online, call 1-888-256-1900 or send checks to:

Mercy Corps Haiti Earthquake Fund

Dept NR

PO Box 2669

Portland , OR 97208

Doctors Without Borders has set up clinics to treat people in Haiti .

The UN World Food Programme is gathering all available resources to deliver food to the recently homeless and impoverished in Haiti . Donations can be made through https://www. wfp.org/donate/ haiti
CARE is deploying emergency team members to Port-au-Prince to assist in recovery efforts. It's focusing its efforts on rescuing children who may still be trapped in school s that collapsed. Donate to CARE
The International Rescue Committee is deploying an emergency response team to Haiti . Donate to the IRC Haiti Crisis Fund.
World Vision has more 370 staff members in Haiti . Donate to World Vision.
United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is a fund used for emergencies like the earthquake in Haiti . Donate online.

This catastrophic event provides us with the opportunity to have important conversations with girls about being prepared for natural disasters. Please take a moment to look at the Be PreparedEmergency Preparedness patch program. This program introduces girls to the concept of emergencies and preparedness, and gives them tools to take action for preparedness efforts in their community and with their families. You can find the patch program at www.gscnc.org/ patches.html.

Thank you for your concern for those who have been devastated by the Haiti earthquake.

The Miss District of Columbia Send-off

2010-01-08T11:11:00.004-05:00

The Miss District of Columbia Send-off

Jen Corey heads to Las Vegas to compete for the title of Miss America

Join Us to celebrate

at 6:30pm on Wednesday, January 13th

at The Institute for World Politics

1521 Sixteenth Street, NW

Suggested Donation $25

Tickets can be purchased at MissDC.org by clicking “DONATE”

or by calling 202-332-3403

ALSO FEATURING:

Sonya Gavankar - Miss DC 1997 Therese Lizardo - Miss DC 2004

Kate Michael - Miss DC 2006 Shayna Rudd - Miss DC 2007
Kate Marie Grinold - Miss DC 2008

Hope Wiseman - Miss DC’s Outstanding Teen 2009

For PDF Flyer Click Here

Let's Hear it for Christmas!

2009-12-25T10:48:00.002-05:00

Looking for one last Christmas project to complete your year?

Try building this house for Christmas Cheer!

Sophie D. Gingerbread Log House

Level: Intermediate
Prep Time: 3 hrs. Total Time: 6 hrs.

INGREDIENTS
HOUSE INGREDIENTS:
1 ¼ brown sugar
¾ cup unsulfured molasses
½ cup unsalted butter
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp ground ginger
1 tbsp ground cloves
½ tsp coarse salt
1¼ cups milk
1 tbsp. baking powder
5 cups flour

MORTAR INGREDIENTS:
2 cups sugar
½ cup water

ICING INGREDIENTS:
7 cups confectioners’ sugar
4 egg whites
1 squeezed lemon

EXTERIOR INGREDIENTS:
50 pretzel rods
150 pretzel sticks
30 full sheets of cinnamon or chocolate graham crackers
Sugared gumdrops
Andes chocolate mints

DIRECTIONS:
PREPARING THE HOUSE:

Part I
Over low heat mix brown sugar, molasses, butter, cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, and salt in a medium sauce with wooden spoon until mixture is completely dissolved. The ingredients should melt within 8-10 minutes. Remove pan from heat. Add milk to mixture.

Using a mixing bowl, add baking powder and flour. Mix on low speed until dough forms.

**The dough should have firmer consistency than most cookie dough. Therefore, if you try to eat it, it may taste like good gingerbread dough on a flour overdose. Remember, this is the foundation for your house, so we want stiff cookies!

Separate dough into three parts. Roll each ball of dough into a sphere and place in individual gallon size plastic bags. Using a rolling pin, roll each dough ball out until it forms a flat disk. Refrigerate your three parts for at least 1 hour.

Part II
Remove disks from fridge. Using a heavily floured rolling pin flatten each piece of dough until it’s ¼ to 1/8 of an inch thick. Using your favorite gingerbread house template cut out the shapes of your house. I used a farm house template from the following website: http://www.ultimategingerbread.com/gingerbreadbydesign-freepatterns.htm

** Please remember that you have to piece your house back together after it is baked. I made sure that my roof pieces were pretty thin, because they do not have much supporting them aside from gravity. Also, I etched small labels onto each cutout so I could easily identity them for assembly.

Bake cut outs on 9x13 cookie sheet at 350’F for 12-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool completely on wire rack. ** To expedite this process I placed my baked cookies in the fridge for a few hours.

BUILDING THE HOUSE:

To prepare mortar:
Boil sugar and water in medium size sauce pan. Reduce heat and simmer until mixture thickens. Use this mixture immediately, as it will crystallize pretty fast.

To prepare royal icing:
Beat eggs and lemon until stiff peak forms with an electric mixer. Add sifted sugar until mixture is smooth. Cover with moist kitchen towel until ready for use.
** For thicker or thinner icing use more or less water.

Prepare a base for your house depending on your house size. I used two 20” x 20” pieces of cardboard taped together. You can also use large sheets of wood or plastic.

1. First assemble the base of house by dipping corners of sides into the mortar, and piece together. Let base dry completely. Next, add sides to form the roof.
** I used a 1/2in. paint brush to paint on the mortar pretty thick, and then supported the sides of my house using soup cans until the mortar hardened. Also, after my base dried, I piped icing on the inside corners and outside edges to make sure that my foundation was firm using a pastry bag filled with a fine plain tip

2.For the doors and window panes, used Andes chocolate mints. Make sure to secure your doors and windows first with royal icing. It will be hard to backtrack after the logs are placed.

3. Working on one side at a time, use spatula to paint layer of icing, then stack log pretzel rods/sticks along the side
** If you are using logs, make sure you use a thin line of icing between each pretzel rod to make sure it stays in place, for pretzel sticks, this is not necessary.

4. Using the same method you used for the sides, for your roof. Layer quartered graham crackers for a shingled roof effect.

5. For the Chimney, glue four Andes’ mints together in the shape of a square. Secure sides of chimney with frosting, and affix to the top of your roof with additional frosting.

6. After all sides of house are complete, using a pastry bag, pipe window panes, door frame details, and accent corners for doors and windows. For finishing touches, spread frosting around the house to represent snow, candied green gumdrops for shrubs and trees, and a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar for freshly fallen snow.

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing

2009-11-18T17:35:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fine salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring (1 ounce)
1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting, recipe follows
Crushed pecans, for garnish
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Pre place cupcake tins inside of 12 piece cupcake pan.

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In another large bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla.

Using a standing mixer, mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined and a smooth batter is formed.

Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared cupcake tins. Place the pans in the oven evenly spaced apart. Bake for about 12-15 min, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Personal Notes: Make sure you follow the recipe instructions perfectly, or the cupcakes will be dry. Do not use too much vinegar. Do not over bake. To decorate use the zesty cream cheese icing below. Feel free to use walnuts, sprinkles, chocolate jimmies, and even coconut.

Derived from the Food Network Recipe courtesy Cakeman Raven, Cakeman Raven Confectionery, NYC Click Here for Full Recipe

Cream Cheese Icing
Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
2 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
8 cups sifted confectioners' sugar (about 2 lbs.)
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

Makes: About 5 1/2 cups of icing.
Directions:

In medium mixer bowl, cream butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add sugar one cup at a time and milk. Mix well. Beat on high until smooth (only 30 seconds to 1 minute). Thin to ice cake smooth; use full strength for piping borders.

NOTE: Do not use light cream cheese or butter substitute. If margarine is used, icing will be softer.

Derived from Wilton’s Recipes: http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Cream-Cheese-Icing

The Art of the Lemon Bar

2009-10-22T11:53:00.000-04:00

Looking for the perfect dessert for you next affair? Try these flawlessly divine lemon bars. Sure to be a hit--these bars are the perfect blend of sugary goodness and sour delight...

½ lb of unsalted butter

½ cup granulated white sugar

2 cups flour

1/8 tsp salt

6 extra large eggs at room temperature

3 cups sugar
2 tbsp lemon zest
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup flour
1 cup confectioner's sugar

Step 1: Cream butter and sugar on medium speed; slowly add flour and salt at a reduced speed.
Roll dough onto floured board, and gather into a ball. Chill for 2 hours.

Step 2: Preheat Oven 350'F.Flatten dough into 13x9 baking pan, leaving ½ inch of dough on sides. Bake curst for 15-20 minutes or until crust is a light golden brown. (The crust should resemble a sugar cookie.) Let crust cool completely.

Step 3: Mix eggs, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and flour into a large bowl. Pour mixture over crust and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Step 4: Sprinkle dessert with confectioner's sugar and cut into 2x2 squares. Enjoy!

Miss America Needs Your Support

2009-10-06T17:30:00.004-04:00

Dear Miss America Family,

October is already upon us and 2009 has become an exciting year for The Miss America Organization. Preparations are well under way for the crowning of Miss America 2010 at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. We have 53 fantastic contestants, and the 2010 Miss America Pageant promises to be another memorable event. Miss America 2009 Katie Stam is having a wonderful year and is “making a difference” by using her voice to promote the spirit of volunteerism and honoring our military.

As you know, first and foremost on our minds is raising scholarship funds to keep our historic organization thriving and continuing for the next generation. Through your dedicated efforts and the support of our local, state and national programs, we will continue to be the largest scholarship provider for women in the world!

This year, the economic climate has touched so many and presented us all with unique challenges that impact our world. We are not immune to the financial crisis that many companies are now facing, however, we are resilient and we continue to look to the future as we prepare for our 89th year in 2010! By having a dedicated Board of Directors, a supportive national team and loyal friends and supporters like you, our beloved organization will continue to prosper into the future and continue to make dreams possible for young women across the country.

We hope that you are able to make a donation, no matter how small, and support the organization that has helped to shape all of our lives.

I sincerely hope that you share my desire to keep this dream alive for all of the young women in our program, so that they, too, may have the wonderful opportunities that have truly been a part of America's culture for generations.

In the spirit of giving, please join me in becoming a member of the “Miss America Crown Circle.” Simply click on the link at the top of this page to donate directly to the Miss America Scholarship Program.

Help keep this program alive and donate now or send your check to:

The Miss America Scholarship Fund/CFNJ

222 New Road - Suite 700

Linwood, NJ 08221

Your donation is 100% tax-deductible and appreciated so very much.

We thank you for your continued support of the Miss America Organization and have attached a gift form below for you. We understand if you are unable to send your gift now and ask that you please consider making a donation to our worthwhile cause in 2010.

Sincerely,

Art McMaster

President & CEO

The Miss America Organization

My Peanut Butter Cookies are Perfection!

2009-10-05T04:52:00.001-04:00

Betty Crocker recipes never fail! Try this classic peanut butter cookie recipe for peanut butter perfection!

Estimated Times:
Preparation - 2hrs. 25mins.
Cooking 8-10 min.
Yields about 24 cookies

Ingredients:
1/2cup granulated sugar
1/2cup packed brown sugar
1/2cup peanut butter
1/4cup shortening
1/4cup butter or margarine, softened
1egg
1 1/4cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
3/4teaspoon baking soda
1/2teaspoon baking powder
1/4teaspoon salt

Directions:
Mix sugars, peanut butter, shortening, butter and egg in large bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate about 2 hours or until firm.

Heat oven to 375ºF.

Shape dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Place about 3 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten in crisscross pattern with fork dipped into sugar.

Bake 9 to 10 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 5 minutes; remove from cookie sheet. Cool on wire rack.***

Find this recipe and more at www.BettyCrocker.com

Volunteer Alert: Everybody Wins

2009-09-28T12:05:00.000-04:00

Looking for a new way to volunteer, but lack the time or creativity to find a program?

Check out Everybody Wins! D.C.

EVERYBODY WINS! is a national literacy and mentoring nonprofit proven to build the skills and love of reading among low-income elementary students. By bringing volunteer mentors into schools for weekly one-on-one reading experiences, everybody wins! - children, schools, volunteers, their companies and ultimately, society.

The EVERYBODY WINS! equation is simple - one mentor, one child, one book at a time - but has a profound impact

Learn More about the Power Lunch Program on the Hill today! Or Click Here for more information.

******************************

FYI… this mentoring program needs more volunteers for this school year. Please consider attending today’s information session.

The Power Lunch Program is a unique literacy and mentoring program that partners professionals

with public elementary school children.

For more information visit our website: http://www.everybodywinsdc.org/

Informational Session on Program

Cannon-122

12:00pm-1:00pm

Everybody Wins!DC’s Power Lunch Monday, September 28, 2009

Refreshments will be served

All it takes is ONE HOUR a WEEK!

Be a Mentor – Change a Life!

Eggs in a Basket: A New Twist on an Old Classic!

2009-09-21T21:55:00.001-04:00

This recipe is extraordinarily easy to whip up! And is not only delightfully refreshing, but an absolute crowd pleaser! Be sure to add this recipe to your brunch rolodex.

INGREDIENTS:

1 tbsp extra –virgin olive oil

3 tbsp butter

¼ cup scallions

1/3 cup sliced button mushrooms

1/3 cup diced green peppers

½ cup evaporated milk

Freshly ground salt and pepper

4 slices of prosciutto di Parma

4 slices of whole wheat bread

1/4 cup mozzarella cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

For Filling:

In a large skillet heat the olive oil, 1 tbsp butter, and scallions for a few minutes. Add the mushrooms, green peppers, and evaporated milk; and sauté for 3-5 minutes or until cream has thickened.

For Base:

Take rolling pin and flatten slices of bread. Remove edges and butter one side with remaining butter.

For the Basket:

Place a slice of flattened bread (butter side down) into a muffin cup. Fold prosciutto di Parma and layer on top of bread. Add a tablespoon or two of filling to each muffin cup. Crack one egg and place on top of filling. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove with a fine knife or fork. Garnish with mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.

This meal is great with fresh fruit or a light salad.

Prep Time: 5 min Total Time: 25 min Makes: 2-4 servings

Thanksgiving In September: Stuffed Cornish Hen with Asparagus

2009-09-16T11:51:00.004-04:00

Ingredients for Cornish Hen
2 Cornish hens
3 cups of stuffing
3 cups chicken broth

2 tbsp of honey

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup chopped scallions

1 tbsp salt

1 tbsp pepper

Ingredients for Asparagus

2 cups asparagus (about 20 stalks)

1 tbsp olive oil
Salt
Pepper

DIRECTION FOR CORNISH HENS:
Preheat Oven to 400`F

1. Prepare stuffing according to directions. Clean Cornish hens and remove giblets.
2. In a medium size bowl mix chicken broth, honey, 1/2 cup olive oil, and scallions, salt and pepper.
3. Liberally baste Cornish hens with olive oil mixture and stuff the hens with prepared stuffing.
4. Place in roasting pan and bake for 60 minutes covered.
5. Baste hens every 10-15 minutes.
6. Increase temperature to 450’F and bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until hens are golden brown.

DIRECTIONS FOR ASPARAGUS:
Preheat Oven to 450`F

1. Lightly medium size pan with spray non-stick
2. Clean ends of asparagus.
3. Baste asparagus with salt, pepper, and olive oil
4. Bake for 15 minutes.

Prep Time: 20 min Total Time: 1 hour 15 min Makes: 2-4 servings

Classic Apple Pie

2009-09-08T10:09:00.000-04:00

Here is a delightful recipe for classic apple pie, and perfect for a Sunday afternoon.
Below are the ingredients and directions for my apple pie:

Dough and Filling:
Dough for a double crust 9-inch pie – I used the recipe from Crisco**
1/2 cup white sugar
½ cup dark brown sugar
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
¼ cup ground cinnamon
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
3 1/2 cups peeled, chopped Granny Smith apples (about 5-6 apples)
8oz. cinnamon apple sauce
½ fresh squeezed lemon.
2 tablespoons butter, chopped into small pieces
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Line a 9-inch pie pan with half of dough. Peel and dice apples into medium size pieces and place in a large bowl. Stir in sugar, flour, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, lemon juice, and apple sauce to diced apples. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
Roll out bottom layer of dough and place in pie dish. Spoon apple mixture into pie pan and dot with butter. Cut remaining crust into strips; arrange in a lattice design over top of pie. Wrap edges of pie crust with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for 45-60 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.

Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350 degrees F and continue to bake for about 45 minutes, or until crust and topping are golden brown.

Ghirardelli Chocolate Brownies

2009-09-01T11:50:00.000-04:00

Estimated Times:
Preparation - 20 min
Cooking – 18-25 min
Yields – 12 brownies

Ingredients:
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) melted butter
2 tablespoons water
2.5 large eggs (two whole eggs and 1 egg white)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup Baking Cocoa
2 dashes of baking powder
1 dash of salt
12 Godiva Chocolate Squares
1 cup chocolate frosting

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350º F.
In a medium sized bowl combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt; and set aside. Combine sugar and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Add two whole eggs, and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients into large bowl. In greased 13x9-inch baking pan spread half of brownie mixture. Add Ghirardelli chocolate squares on top of mixture in 3x4 rows. With remaining brownie mixture; mix in remaining egg white. Spread the remaining mixture on top of chocolate squares. Bake for 18 to 25 minutes or until wooden pick comes out mostly clean. Cool completely in pan on wire rack, frost with chocolate frosting, and cut into 12 bars.
My favorite way to eat brownies is a la mode!

Vamp Up Your Freezer

2009-08-26T23:00:00.003-04:00

Why do ice cubes need to be so boring! I lack an ice cube maker in my small studio apartment, and recently broke my sole ice cube tray. The following are some great ice cube trays that will certainly spice up any afternoon brunch with the girls or cocktail party.

Silicon Heart Shaped Cubes
By: www.Organize.com

On the Rocks
By: The Container Store

Fred Flare’s Rhinestone Jewels
By: Fred Flare

Crunch Some Numbers with Target’s Single Number Baked Tray
By: Target

Take it back to good memories with Lego’s Ice Brick Tray
By: LEGO

Eggs: The Common Recipe Your Mother Forgot to Mention

2009-08-24T20:59:00.006-04:00

I realize that most do not think of cooking “eggs” as a recipe choice. However, eggs are the one breakfast food that I find myself making the most for myself and others, and the only recipe that I haven’t received proper instructions for cooking. Therefore, instead of serving your friends and families over charred, over fried, and over boiled eggs, here are a few simple steps for making the perfect eggs!

Fried: Crack egg in medium sized bowl, and set aside. Heat skillet to medium heat, and make sure temperature is not too high! Pour egg onto skillet. Cook for 2 min. for sunny side up. For over-easy, over-medium, and over-hard eggs, flip egg over with spatula, and vary the length of time for egg to set.

Sunny-side up: cooked on one side only; the top part, containing the yellow, usually stays slightly liquid.

Over-easy: cooked on one side and then turned over for only a few seconds.

Over-hard: cooked on one side and then turned over until both sides are evenly cooked.

Tip: For perfectly fried eggs without a crispy shell, reduce the skillet’s heat, and cover pan. This will create an evenly heated environment for a perfectly fried egg. For even sassier cooks, add a splash of water before covering egg, for a nice steamed/fried variety.

Scrambled: Scrambled eggs are of the easiest ways to make eggs. Simply add eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in medium size bowl; and beat eggs for 2-4 minutes until mixture is slightly frothy. Pour mixture onto skillet with medium heat. As soon as the eggs set, “scramble” the eggs. Continue repeating the process of allowing the eggs to set, then scrambling until eggs are cooked.

Tip: Remove eggs when they are still moist. If eggs are dry they have been over cooked!
Suggestion: For creamier eggs, try adding cream instead of milk.

Boiled: If you can’t figure this one out, maybe you shouldn’t enter a kitchen. Simply fill a small saucepan with water and bring to boil. Add eggs and reduce heat to simmering. Allow eggs to boil for 3-5 min for soft-boiled eggs. and 15-20 minutes for hard-boiled eggs.

Soft boiled eggs should have a firm egg white, and soft runny yoke. Snip the top third of the egg with scissors and serve immediately in a cup.

Tip: For soft boiled eggs make sure that the egg is fresh: To determine the egg’s freshness, place egg in a bowl of water. If the egg sinks, it is fresh. As eggs age, the air space inside the egg will increase. Thus, if the egg is old, it will float.

Poached: Poached eggs are basically eggs that have been cooked in hot water. To prepare, break eggs into small tea cups and set aside. Fill a 10 inch skillet with about 3 inches of water and bring to boil. Add 2-3 tsp of vinegar to boiling water, reduce heat to simmer, and stir. Ease eggs into water by dipping about ½ of cup into water, and let the egg slide out. Cover skillet with top for 2-4 minutes to cook eggs. Remove eggs with slotted spoon (that is a spoon with holes), dip in a bowl of cool water, and then gently place egg onto paper towel to remove excess water. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and serve egg on toast, biscuit, or English muffin.

Tip: Lightly touch egg yolk with finger, it should be firm. If it is not, place egg back in water.
Suggestion: Professionals use egg rings, I use plastic wrap! Line a small cup with plastic wrap. Drop egg inside and twist the top. When the water comes to a simmer, place plastic wrapped eggs into skillet. After eggs are cooked, remove from water, unwrap your eggs, and voilà the perfect poached eggs!

Nutrition Info:
1 large egg has about 75 calories.
1 large egg white contains only 17 calories.

To learn more about eggs check out: The Incredible Egg

Defining FAB-U-LOUS

2009-08-19T00:14:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I was voted as one of the Top 10, 50 Most Fabulous People on The Hill. And as part of the Top 10 selection process, the finalist had to describe what deemed them as fabulous.

My answer included a statement about my optimistic spirit; my participation in pageants; and a quick nod to my personal hobbies such as jewelry making and blogging. However, it was extraordinarily interesting to read what other finalist wrote as their fabulous qualities. Many of them mentioned quick notes about their supportive families, commitment to service, or childhood memories; which brought me to thinking about how quickly we all can forget about what makes each of us uniquely fabulous.

I personally believe that part of living a balanced life is realizing what your best inner and outer strengths are; what you value and why; and capitalizing on those realizations. This week, I challenge you to answer the following question:

What makes you fabulous?

Write it out! Stick it on your mirror, inside your vanity, or on your work computer as a quick reminder of what gives you that extra spark!

Shrimp & Basil Linguine

2009-08-17T23:00:00.002-04:00

INGREDIENTS:
½ lb. linguine
3 tbsp olive oil
½ cup diced sweet onion
1 garlic clove minced
½ cup white wine
1 ½ cup fresh deveined and cleaned shrimp
¼ cup diced sun dried tomatoes
¼ cup parsley
¼ cup basil
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp salt
½ tsp Cajun red pepper
3 tsp. butter or margarine
1 ½ cup arugula
Fresh grated Parmesan

DIRECTIONS:

For the Pasta:
Boil linguine in 3 quarts of water for 8-12 minutes.

For Sauce:
In large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat and saute onions and garlic for approx. 2 minutes or until golden brown. Add wine and shrimp, cook for about 5 minutes or until shrimp is pink. Turn off heat. Add cooked linguine, butter, sun dried tomatoes, parsley, basil, black pepper, white pepper, salt, Cajun red pepper, arugula. Toss to combine. Serve immediately with freshly grated Parmesan.

Prep Time: 5 min Total Time: 25 min Makes: 2-4 servings

Staffers create own 'hot list'

2009-08-16T16:55:00.005-04:00

By: Erika Lovely
Congressional staffers fed up with The Hill’s annual 50 Most Beautiful People list have taken matters into their own hands. On Saturday night, a bipartisan team announced its own competing list of the hottest staffers around: the Fab Fifty’s 50 Most Fabulous People.

Unlike the Hill’s list, what matters is not just looks: Nominees in the Fab Fifty contest were judged on popularity, humor and, naturally, all-around fabulousness.

Read more from Politico: Click Here
Check Out the Top 10 @ A Slice of Snob: Click Here

How-To: Strip Java Goodness from Your Coffee Cup

2009-08-14T07:10:00.003-04:00

My family and I drink coffee and tea, like fish drink water. So much so, that we probably consume at least 3 cups of java goodness daily. And to be perfectly honest, I can’t remember an early morning or long evening without seeing my parents with mug in hand.

Now as a young adult, the tradition continues in my studio apartment with one entire cupboard dedicated, and stocked full with the international classics. Nevertheless, as much as I have enjoyed my café Americano with a shot of vanilla syrup or soothing chamomile tea, it has been ruining my white china.

The following are some ideas on how to get those tricky tea and coffee stains off of your favorite dining collections.

Solution 1: Boiling H2O + Baking Soda
Pour 1 teaspoon of baking soda into your mug filled with boiling water. Let the solution sit over night, and Voila! For stains that still won’t split, make a paste with the baking soda, grab your toothbrush, and scrub clean. Hey, if it works on your teeth, it’s sure to work on your porcelain!

Solution 2: Citrus Peel + Salt
For those tougher stains, try adding salt to the back of a lemon or orange peel, and scrub the stain until it vanishes.

Solution 3: Boiling H20 + Vinegar
Pour 1 part vinegar and 2 parts boiling water into your favorite mug. Let the solution clean overnight until your favorite cup is spotless.

True Life: My Makeup Brush Is A Dirt Mongrel

2009-08-13T16:47:00.003-04:00

I’ve spent hundreds of dollars on quality makeup brushes over the years, including $318.77 this year.

Used daily to apply a full face, then stashed in my bathroom vanity, the poor things have only been washed maybe 7 times. Okay, okay, I know this is horrible! But seriously who wants, let alone has time to wash and dry their makeup brushes every day. I certainly don’t. Regardless, I felt it was necessary to do some research about washing your favorite beauty tools that will save you time and your face.

Your brushes hold more dirt, dead skin, and bacteria than you can ever imagine. And, in addition to being dirt mongrels, by not cleaning your brushes you are failing to receive the full effect of your makeup color palette.

It is highly important to wash your brushes daily!

Cleaning your brushes daily helps to minimize potential skin problems; break outs; and aids in maintaining their shape. There are a wide variety of cleansers you can use including MAC’s Brush Cleanser for $11.00 USD or Clinique’s Makeup Brush Cleanser for $13.00 USD. Both brands have received high reviews on www.totalbeauty.com.
Lastly, for those of you who want more bang for your buck, try using a gentle shampoo like Johnson's Baby Shampoo. Make up brushes are just like hair right?? Just make sure your shampoo is for normal hair to avoid additional buildup.

After every use, simply lather your brush in the palm of your hand, rinse, reshape, and lay flat to dry. Do not stand your brushes up, it will ruin the shaft. And if you can’t commit to washing your brushes daily, buy disposable tools! –

With that being said, I should take notice to my own advice.

Have you tried eating breakfast?

2009-08-12T13:26:00.003-04:00

For years mothers have nagged their loved ones about the benefits of eating breakfast. Yet, over 40% of Americans reluctantly continue to skip the one meal of the day that helps maintain a slimmer waist; boost overall energy; and aids better decision making throughout the day.

Breakfast can be easy, just remember to keep it SIMPLE.

Start your day Right! Eating breakfast controls nibbling and overeating throughout the day. Try grabbing a slice of whole grain toast with peanut butter on your way out the door.

Increase the fiber! Try bringing back your favorite childhood cereals. Almost all children’s cereals are low calorie; packed with a good amount of daily vitamins and minerals; and most importantly have high levels of fiber.

Make an effort! Either wake up 5 minutes early, or prepare your breakfast the night before.

Plan ahead! Fill your cupboard with quick fix foods like nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, bagels, oatmeal, eggs, cereal, toast, and peanut butter to make a variety of meals within 5 minutes or less.

Learn to control your portion sizes! Breakfast does not need to be an extravaganza. Eat a handful of berries and a boiled egg to fulfill your meal requirements. Also, those who select healthier options for breakfast are more likely to continue making wise food selections throughout the day.

Enjoy it! Have fun with breakfast foods. My favorite breakfast meal is oatmeal with brown sugar!

Etiquette Rule #275: Thank You Notes

2009-08-11T07:28:00.005-04:00

The popularity and ease of new technology has seemingly pushed good ole fashioned manners out the back door. And tweets, emails, text and facebook messages have moved into an ostensibly comfortable home in our day to day lives. Regardless of the accessibility and time friendliness of a digital text, nothing replaces a handwritten thank you note.

Write It Out!
Get out your blue and black fountain pen, and if possible always handwrite your note. Handwriting your card not only shows thoughtfulness on your part, but demonstrates that you truly care about your recipient’s actions.

Personality Talks!

Unique and inexpensive cards are a dime a dozen at local corner stores. Thus, Use cards that express your personality. And for those of you who are expert craftiers design your own. Also, make your note as personable as possible. Mention the gift or details of why you are thanking your recipient.

Be On Time!
Send out cards as soon as possible. For occasions held on a grandiose scale, send your note within 3 months. For smaller and more personal events, within 2 -4 weeks is appropriate. Lastly, if you have exceeded both mannerly deadlines, remember this: “It’s always better to receive a card, than nothing all”

Baked Eggplant Parmesan

2009-08-10T07:36:00.002-04:00

Ingredients:
2 baby eggplants
1 cup bread crumbs
3 eggs
Flour for drenching
Salt & Pepper
2 tsp. of dried thyme
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
½ sliced yellow onion
1 sliced red pepper
1 sliced yellow pepper
2 ½ cups spaghetti sauce
1 tbsp. olive oil
½ cup grated Pecorino Romano
1 – 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella

Preparation:
Preheat Oven to 350`F

Slice eggplant into ½ inch slices. Slice onion, red pepper, yellow pepper, and set aside. Beat 3 eggs in small bowl set aside. Mix bread crumbs and thyme in a small bowl & set aside. Set aside flour for drenching.

Directions:
Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of eggplant. Dip eggplant slices in flour, egg batter, then bread crumbs, and place on a 13x9 baking sheet. On another sheet place red pepper, yellow pepper, and onion slices. Bake eggplant at 350`F on each side for 5 minutes. Bake red pepper, yellow pepper, and yellow onion for 5 minutes on one side.

Lightly spray 13x9 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Spread a layer of spaghetti sauce on bottom; add eggplant, peppers, onions; and drizzle olive oil on top of layers. Add Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, basil, and parsley, repeat layer.

Bake at 350’F for 30 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes and serve.

Prep Time: 20 min Total Time: 30 min Makes: 4-6 servings

America's Promise Alert: Impact 5: A Youth Guide for having An Impact in Your Community

2009-08-07T20:58:00.002-04:00

Are you a young leader looking to help fight the dropout crisis and get involved in the Alliance’s work? Get started on Impact 5, the Alliance’s new community action guide that helps you reflect on the Five Promises, assess their availability in your community, and then create a project to help the children and youth in your community get more of the resources they need to succeed.
WHAT IS IMPACT 5?
Impact 5 is your way into the Impact Network, a national movement of young people working to improve graduation rates by helping their communities be better places for children and youth. Members of the Impact Network know that every community is different, and Impact 5 will help you best understand the Five Promises (the key resources that every child needs to succeed) and their impact in your community. Once you understand your community’s needs, Impact 5 will provide you with the know-how to plan, fundraise, and get the support for youth in your community.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN THE ALLIANCE?
By undertaking Impact 5, you join the Impact Network, through which you’ll gain access to more
resources, have the opportunity to have your project highlighted in Alliance publications, and enter for achance to win trips to upcoming events and other prizes. After your project is completed, the numbers of children you help will be added to our running count. Your work will directly help America’s Promise Alliance reach the more children with more Promises, and help us ensure that more young people are graduating on time from high school. Finally, your successes will help motivate others to provide more of the Five Promises to the nation’s youth.

Click the link below to get started, and make sure to check back here for more resources to help you in your work.
Download Impact 5

How-To: Not Your Mother’s Budget: Managing Your Finances with Ease

2009-08-07T06:28:00.004-04:00

Americans have spent decades splurging, spending, and selfishly divulging their bank accounts as if money grew on trees. Well listen closely, I have a secret to share . . .

“there is no such thing as a money fairy. And NO, MONEY DOES NOT GROW ON TREES!”

As our personal finances continue to spin out of whack, America’s national debt currently stands at 11.6 trillion and continues to multiply by billions every day.

Women have been the financial heads of their households for decades, and we must regain our steadfast commitment to keeping a balanced book. In the past, our mothers spent countless hours at the kitchen table writing bills and tabulating balances in their little black books of household finances. However, in this digital age, there are plethoras of no fuss, easy to use websites to keep a balanced budget for any household small or large.

One of my personal favorites is Mint.Com.

Mint.Com allows you to visually see what you are spending on your bank and credit cards with easy-to-read pie charts and graphs. The site also gives you instantaneous alerts on hidden fees; allows you to track investments; discover new ways to save; and most importantly it’s free!

For more information visit:

http://www.mint.com/

For additional budget friendly sites, check out:

http://www.budgetpulse.com/

http://cgi.money.cnn.com/tools/instantbudget/instantbudget_101.jsp

https://money.strands.com/

7 Bargain Sites for the Savvy Shopper

2009-08-06T18:30:00.001-04:00

During these hard economic times, I know many of us are strapped for cash. If you're looking for a great deal, here are some fabulous sites to get you started!

For Stylish Shoes

For Designer Trends

Find the Perfect Fit

Free Shipping & Discounts

www.retailmenot.com

Hook Line & Sinker of Retail

www.shopstyle.com

Pooch Be Gone!

2009-08-05T23:01:00.003-04:00

Every woman can sympathize with that aggravating belly bulge that seems to take form right before you want to slip into your favorite bikini for that late summer pool party. Well, fear no more! With these quick steps, you can quickly get your core looking fabulous for any baring occasion.

1. Decrease Your Sodium Intake: The Food and Drug Administration recommends a daily intake of 1,500 mg to 2,400 mg per day. However, most American adults tend to eat between 4,000 to 6,000 mg of sodium per day. Consuming excessive amounts of salt increase water retention. So before your next bare all situation, avoid the following sodium hoarders: fries, canned soup, potato chips, TV dinners, condiments, prepackaged goods, soda and even pickles!

2. Increase Your H2O: As ironic as it may seem, increasing your water intake will actually flush out any toxins in your body. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day between meals, and before and after working out. Lastly,(and my personal favorite) if you are at a dinner after work, or an after five cocktail party, skip the alcohol for a nice glass of sparkling water!

3. Suck, Tuck, and Strut: Your abdominal muscles and posture are intricately linked to a more slimming figure. So next time you're strutting your stuff down Park Avenue, (or on your way to work) don't forget to "suck, tuck, and strut"

Suck: Pull your navel towards you spine

Tuck: With your abdominal muscles tightened, roll your pelvis down and under.

Strut: Glide with confidence knowing that you are not only building definition in your abdominal, but increasing your core's strength.

For more articles check out www.simplysophied.com

Etiquette Rule #878: Pictures & Liquor

2009-08-04T21:44:00.002-04:00

Getting a tight shot of "Miss Drank Too Much" and her favorite choice of poison can be a toxic combination for any modern day gal in today's quick flash society. And the media always seems gainfully prepared to go into a tizzy over quick snapshots of celebrity A Listers, political ring players, and even Miss State titleholders when it comes to boozes. As a young professional, I always find myself making quick decisions when it comes to social functions after hours (which regularly cater to the 21+ crowd), drinks, and photographer Bob.

Problem:

Squirelly photographer gaming to take
a picture of you at the most unfortunate of moments.

Come on! We've all seen pictures of ourselves in that half talking, awkward snarl, almost laughing grimace taken by amateur photographer Bob (that you thought would never resurface) only to be swiftly rediscovered all over the Internet for the world to see.

Etiquette Rule #878:
Liquor before pictures never fear;
liquor while taking pictures, always a ticker.

Regardless if your quick sip was taken responsibly, the repercussions of misinterpreted drinking photos can be far reaching. Thus, martini, coke, or rum, if you see a camera coming your way it is absolutely okay to take a moment to set your drink aside before the photographer snaps a picture. If you do not feel comfortable setting your drink down, ask someone you trust to hold your drink for a quick moment while you take the picture. In a professional environment, your peers should courteously understand your quick thinking.

Solution:
A great picture for the event,
and one step removed from a publicity disaster.

...

Mixed Berry Shortcake

2009-08-03T17:29:00.010-04:00

One of my favorite childhood memories is spending long summer afternoons picking wild mulberries in the forest behind my house. With stained purple fingers, my best friend and I would create all sorts of grandiose concoctions to add a splash of fun to our frequent lemonade stands. Unfortunately, there are no wild forests behind my studio apartment in DC. And, I have traded in my mulberry picking days for long work days on our nations steps.

The following is a simply delightful dessert that will add a fresh twist to any summer afternoon. I whipped out my favorite Betty Crocker cookbook for the angel food cake and added a scoop of Eddy’s vanilla bean ice cream.

Mixed Berry Shortcake
¼ cup mixed berry mix
2 scoops favorite vanilla bean ice-cream
1 slice of angel food cake

Mixed Berry Mix

Ingredients:
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ cup blackberries
½ cup raspberries
¼ cup blueberries
1 cup strawberries

Directions:
Mixed fresh squeezed lemon juice, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries into medium size bowl. Chill for 1 hour

Heavenly Angel Food Cake
Recipe Courtesy of Betty Crocker:
© 2009 ®/TM General Mills All Rights Reserved

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cake flour*
1 1/2 cups egg whites (12) at room temperature
1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:
1. Move oven rack to lowest position. Heat oven to 375ºF.
2. Mix powdered sugar and flour; set aside. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. (This usually takes about 2 minutes) Beat in granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons at a time, on high speed, adding vanilla, almond extract and salt with the last addition of sugar. (Takes an additional two minutes) Continue beating until stiff and glossy meringue forms. Do not under beat**
3. Sprinkle sugar-flour mixture, 1/4 cup at a time, over meringue, folding in just until sugar-flour mixture disappears. Push batter into ungreased angel food cake pan (tube pan), 10x4 inches. *** Cut gently through batter with metal spatula.
4. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until cracks feel dry and top springs back when touched lightly. **** Immediately turn pan upside down onto heatproof funnel or bottle. Let hang about 2 hours or until cake is completely cool. Loosen side of cake with knife or long, metal spatula; remove from pan.
5. Cut a slice of the angel food cake and top with ice cream and mixed berry mix. Enjoy!

Notes
* I added ½ tsp of baking powder and shifted Gold’s Medal All Purpose flour 12 times to create a light and fluffy consistency.
** Beat the batter for about 2 additional minutes. The batter should be able to form a stiff peak.
*** I used 2 9x5 loaf pans.
**** My oven heats quickly, so I decreased my temperature to 350`F.

Prep Time: 20 min Total Time: 2 hours 55 min Makes: 16 servings

Introducing: Simply Sophie D.

2009-08-02T23:10:00.013-04:00

I have dedicated most of my time to several of my favorite organizations (the Miss America Scholarship Program, America’s Promise Alliance, and Girl Scouts of the USA) as a participant, volunteer, and troop leader. And throughout the five years I spent participating in these organizations; I have realized my inner strengths and learned to capitalize on my best qualities. Thus, for several weeks I have been pondering what my next steps will be post pageantry and life in Ohio.

Simply Sophie D. is a hodgepodge of my favorite thoughts, ideas, and adventures. While focusing on life’s basics I hope to dive into the simplicities of life that I enjoy on a daily basis. Each week I invite you to learn a new recipe, discover the latest trends, and follow my quick “how-to” guide to solve everyday problems. In addition to my articles, I will be launching a Fall/Winter line of my jewelry collection later this month. I truly feel blessed by all of the wonderful friends and experiences I have gained throughout my journey. And, it is my humble excitement to introduce to you: “Simply Sophie D.”

Thank You

2009-07-14T09:27:00.001-04:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

National Chocolate Day

2009-07-07T14:24:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness! As lover of all national holidays, how could I miss such a monumental occasion as this? It’s unfortunate that I’ll have to postpone my celebration of this day until later this week. But I want to wish everyone a happy Chocolate Day!

Click Here for my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe!

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-04T09:51:00.000-04:00

Simply Sophie D's New York Cheesecake

2009-06-16T11:03:00.001-04:00

Ingredients

Crust:

2 cups finely ground Honey Maid Cinnamon graham crackers (about 27 full crackers)
1 stick LandOLakes unsalted butter, melted

Filling:

1 pound Kraft Philadelphia cream cheese, 2 (8-ounce) blocks, softened
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 pint Daisy sour cream
1 lemon, zested
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Combine sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla in medium size mixing bowl and set aside.

For the Crust:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ingredients for the crust with a fork until evenly moistened. Lightly coat the bottom and sides of an 8-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the crumbs into the pan and, using the bottom of a smooth bottom glass or, press the crumbs down into the base and 1-inch up the sides. Refrigerate for 5 minutes.

For the Filling:

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese on low speed for 1 minute until smooth and free of any lumps. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, and continue to beat slowly until combined. Gradually add sugar and beat until creamy, for 1 to 2 minutes.

Add sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla. Periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl and the beaters. The batter should be well-mixed but not over beaten. Pour the filling into the crust-lined pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Set the cheesecake pan on a large piece of aluminum foil and fold up the sides around it. Place the cake pan in a large roasting pan. Pour boiling water into the roasting pan until the water is about halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan; the foil will keep the water from seeping into the cheesecake. Bake for 60 minutes. The cheesecake should still jiggle (it will firm up after chilling), so be careful not to overcook.

Cool cheesecake in the oven, with oven door cracked for 30 minutes. Chill in the overnight in the refrigerator, loosely covered with dish cloth. Loosen the cheesecake from the sides of the pan by running a thin metal spatula around the inside rim. Unmold and transfer to a cake plate.

Slice the cheesecake with a thin, non-serrated knife that has been dipped in hot water. Wipe dry after each cut.

Yield: 10-12 servings

Recipe based off of Tyler Florence "The Ultimate Cheesecake" Food Network Recipe.

A Night at the RAMMYS

2009-06-08T11:34:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures of me and fellow contestants at the event!

The RAMW Restaurant Awards Gala, “The RAMMYS”, one of the areas’ most anticipated and glamorous evenings celebrate and recognize the many extraordinary professionals that comprise the restaurant and associate membership of RAMW.
Each year with a new and exciting theme, RAMW brings together esteemed hospitality leaders for a special evening devoted to honoring excellence in our restaurant and food service community.

Bingo at Washington DC VA Medical Center

2009-06-05T02:42:00.000-04:00

Today I spent the evening playing bingo at the Washington DC VA Medical Center’s nursing home. I made some great friends, including Alyce who is 102 years young. Here are some pictures of myself, Stefaney Rants, Kate Robertson, and Alyce!

2009-06-03T14:38:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!I'm working towards becoming Miss America. This year the Miss America Organization is teaming up with Children's Miracle Network to help kids in our community by raising much needed funds. I have set a goal to raise $500.00. Money raised will benefit both Children's Miracle Network and the Miss America Scholarship Fund. Please help me reach my goal and make a secure donation today by clicking on the "Donate Now" button below. I will immediately receive credit for the donation and be able to track my progress. Also, please take a moment to view Marcus' incredible miracle story, and see how he was helped by his Children's Miracle Network hospital. Thanks so much for helping dreams come true!

DC REPUBLICAN COMMITTEE EVENT (WITH MICHAEL STEELE)

2009-06-03T03:45:00.000-04:00

Tonight I had a wonderful time volunteering for the DC Republican Committee’s (DCRC) Annual Dinner with fellow Miss DC contestants. Teri Galvez (Executive Director for Miss DC) is the Vice Chair for the DCRC, and was the event planner for the evening. I must say that every event Teri has planned, is not only orchestrated with astonishing grace, but the food is always amazing!! The highlight of the night was certainly meeting GOP Chairman Michael Steele. His keynote was inspiring, especially as a young republican.

Smile and Say ‘No Photoshop’

2009-05-28T11:21:00.000-04:00

By ERIC WILSON

Published: May 28, 2009

The sins of retouching stir a backlash. But will fashion ever get real? Click Here to read full article.

For Teenagers, Hello Means ‘How About a Hug?’

2009-05-28T11:20:00.000-04:00

By SARAH KERSHAW
Published: May 28, 2009

A greeting is so common, some students complain of peer pressure to hug, and some schools have banned hugging. Click Here to read full article.

Group Aims to Block D.C. Marriage Bill

2009-05-28T11:18:00.000-04:00

Same-Sex Union Foes Seek Referendum
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, May 28, 2009

A coalition of ministers and same-sex marriage opponents formally requested a citywide referendum yesterday to block the District from recognizing gay marriages performed in other jurisdictions, setting the stage for a heated legal and political battle over the issue this summer.

In paperwork filed with the D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics, the group Stand 4 Marriage D.C. said it wants to begin the process of collecting about 21,000 signatures needed to overturn the bill that the D.C. Council overwhelmingly approved this month recognizing same-sex marriages performed elsewhere. That bill is tentatively scheduled to take effect in July.

The referendum effort is a preemptive strike designed to slow plans by several council members to take up a separate bill this year to allow same-sex marriages to be performed in the District.

"It's a declaration of war," said Bishop Harry Jackson, senior pastor of Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, a vocal critic of same-sex marriage and a leader of the referendum effort. "We are sending a clear message this is going to be fought every step of the way."

Jackson has allied with other ministers from the Washington region. The Archdiocese of Washington issued a statement yesterday reiterating its opposition to same-sex marriage but withheld support for the proposed referendum until church officials could review it.

Jackson said same-sex marriage opponents are buoyed by the decision Tuesday by the California Supreme Court to let stand that state's referendum last year against same-sex marriage. Jackson noted that voters in almost 30 other states have supported ballot proposals opposing same-sex marriage.

Same-sex marriage opponents in the District face a greater hurdle to get the issue on the ballot than opponents did in California, where it is common for questions to land before voters. Moments after Jackson's filing was made, supporters of same-sex marriage vowed they would push to keep the issue off a ballot.

"Civil rights shouldn't be subject to referendum," said council member Phil Mendelson (D-At Large), who sponsored the bill to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere.

Before opponents can start collecting signatures, the Board of Elections must decide whether the question of overturning Mendelson's bill qualifies to be on a ballot.

If approved, the referendum could be put to voters in a special election this year or next or in next year's council and mayoral elections.

Under D.C. election law, referendums cannot be used to appropriate funds, overturn a budget act or violate the Human Rights Act. Mark Levine, a lawyer and gay rights activist, said he's confident that Mendelson's bill falls under the Human Rights Act. He said the elections board would be "engaged in an extraordinary act of lawlessness" if it allows the referendum to move forward.

"The D.C. government cannot discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, and for them to recognize marriages of straight couples and not to recognize marriages of gay couples would be a clear violation of the Human Rights Act," Levine said.

A spokesperson for the elections board did not return calls yesterday. Jackson said he is willing to pursue the matter in court if the board rejects his application.

If the board approves the application, opponents will have 180 days to meet the requirements of a referendum, which involves collecting signatures from at least 5 percent of the registered voters in at least five of the city's eight wards. That has proved to be a formidable task in previous referendum efforts.

In 2004, supporters of slot machine gambling in the District failed to get their referendum on the ballot after thousands of signatures were deemed invalid.

If an election were held, gay rights activists said, they think they could defeat the measure.

Noting the District's progressive reputation, Mendelson said he thinks "the sentiment of the community is pretty clear" in support of same-sex marriage.

Jackson said that African Americans in California overwhelmingly supported Proposition 8.

"In the District, you got 55 percent African American, a growing number of Hispanics, an immigrant community that is by and large not pro-gay marriage," Jackson said.

Philip Pannell, an African American gay rights activist who lives in Ward 8, said that Jackson is misreading the local black community.

"It's a different electorate" than in California, Pannell said. "We have a much more activist black, gay and lesbian community here in D.C., and they will step up and speak out and organize against it. But it will be a struggle."

By Tim Craig

Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Gala

2009-05-23T18:49:00.000-04:00

This week the Miss DC contestants were invited to the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Gala. (APAICS) Here are some pictures from the event!

Visiting Children's National Medical Center

2009-05-20T02:56:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, the Miss D.C. contestants were invited to tour Children's National Medical Center with current Miss D.C. Kate Marie Grinold and Miss Hawaii Nicole Fox. Children’s National has served our nation’s capitol for over 130 years and continues to be a leader in pediatric care. During our visit, we were able to see the vast renovations the hospital has taken to make the hospital’s environment more kid friendly. We also spent the evening making cards for the children currently residing at Children’s. To learn more about Children’s National Medical Center, please visit here.

Support Miss District of Columbia Pageant!

2009-05-18T14:53:00.000-04:00

FUNDRAISER for Miss DC Scholarship Organization:

Come meet Miss DC and Miss Hawaii—both Top Ten in the Miss America Pageant!

…and all the 2009 Miss DC contestants!

Who will be the next Miss DC?!
She’ll be at Hudson!

Monday, May 18

Hudson- 2030 M Street, NW
http://www.hudson-dc.com/

8:30 pm

Suggested donation: $10-20

A Night at the Opera!

2009-05-17T05:00:00.000-04:00

A few nights ago, I had the opportunity to experience my first opera at the historic Kennedy Center. Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot is a story about an ice princess’s uncompromising heart, and a suitor’s struggle to gain her love. I personally enjoyed the characters Ping, Pang, and Pong the most because of their vibrate costumes and comical theatrics. I have sincerely regained a new appreciation for the arts, and I hope to attend future events at the Kennedy Center.

To learn more about the Kenndy Center click here.
To attend Turandot click here.

Have a Blessed Easter Holiday!

2009-04-12T08:02:00.000-04:00

Merry Christmas from the Davis Family

2008-12-25T12:55:00.000-05:00

I love spending time with my family, and especially during the Christmas holiday. This year I baked over 70 gingerbread cookies for our Christmas dinner! Only bummer is I forgot to take pictures of the final product. Oh well!!

Have a Merry & Blessed Christmas

Recipe of the Week: Chewy Cocoa Brownies

2008-08-10T21:20:00.000-04:00

For several months, a box of Nestle Toll House Cocoa has been sitting idly in our pantry, waiting for the right person to come along and use its prize contents. Alas, last Thursday, I decided to take this lonely box of goodies, and make a batch of homemade brownies. I nixed the nuts and baking powder, and baked them for 25 minutes. I finished the brownies by spreading chocolate icing on top after they cooled. In the future, I'll most likely try adding chocolate morsels, caramel morsels, or drizzling fudge on top before they bake. Overall, they turned out wonderfully!! Below is the recipe from Nestle Toll House.

Estimated Times:
Preparation - 20 min
Cooking - 25 min
Yields - 24 brownies (2 dozen)

Moist and chewy, this brownies will be a hit whether as an afternoon snack or topped with ice cream and served as an after dinner dessert.

Ingredients:

1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, melted
2 tablespoons water
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Baking Cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:

PREHEAT oven to 350º F. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
COMBINE granulated sugar, butter and water in large bowl. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt in medium bowl; stir into sugar mixture. Stir in nuts. Spread into prepared baking pan.

BAKE for 18 to 25 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out slightly sticky. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cut into bars.

Click Here for this recipe online.

Miracle Treat Day!

2008-08-05T15:05:00.000-04:00

Miss America titleholders have been devoted supporters of the Children's Miracle Network since 1989. By visiting various hospitals and supporting fundraising activities, titleholders have helped millions of children across the globe. Realizing the significant impact every titleholder can make, in 2006 the Miss America Scholarship Program accepted the Children's Miracle Network as their official national platform.

Do something different this Thursday, August 9, 2008, and drop by your local participating Dairy Queen for Miracle Treat Day. Buy any Blizzard and 100% of the proceeds will go towards your local Children's Miracle Network Hospital. Click Here for more information about Miracle Treat Day.

Way Cool: Plus-Sized and Proud of It!

2008-04-29T23:59:00.000-04:00

Size 12-14 Chloe Marshall was crowned Miss Surrey in March 2008. As the first plus-size model to... (courtesy www.missengland.info)

For several days, Miss Chole Marshall has been front and center for American pop-journalist as Miss England’s first plus sized contestant. The media has both praised and condemned her for being “a size 16” and competing in the Miss England beauty pageant. Some criticize her for promoting an “unhealthy image” and others admire her for embracing her healthy, average size. As a young woman and pageant competitor, I have personally experienced pressure from many to conform to society’s fabricated gender ideals. However, as I whole heartedly believe and promote, beauty comes in all shapes and sizes! Two thumbs up to Chole and I wish her best of luck on her quest for the title of Miss England. For the article released by ABC News CLICK HERE.

Cover the Uninsured

2008-04-27T22:27:00.000-04:00

Oh the Quirks of Life: Syrian Ambassador Imad Moustapha on CNN

2008-04-24T22:22:00.000-04:00

So today while strategically fumbling around my room attempting to complete all the days’ task “yesterday” and listening to CNN’s Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer I heard a familiar voice. Long behold an old acquaintance, Syrian Ambassador Imad Moustapha! Wow what memories. I remember the day I helped produce our interview with him for Voice of America’s “Press Conference USA”. Abassador Moustapha was a character. The interview with him was so incredibly intriguing. His use of savvy linguistics and sophistically uncompromising answers defiantly left me with a new perspective on the inner workings of international relations. It was also quite eye-opening to interview a man who has so much animosity towards US foreign policy and political leaders. With that being said, seeing him on CNN this afternoon to discuss Syria’s and North Korea’s possible involvement with WMD’s tickled me. Below is the interview from CNN. Also, not that I am endorsing the Ambassador, however, CLICK HERE for a link to his blog. He's an amazing journalist, and does a fantastic job reporting on all things which make Syria such a beautiful and rich culture.

What Do You Think? School’s New Rule for Pupils in Trouble: No Fun

2008-04-06T17:08:00.000-04:00

April 6, 2008

I recently read this article in the NYT, and was left with mixed feelings of both satisfaction and concern. Foremost, I believe that discipline is a trait many children are lacking in both their private and public lives. With the perpetual amount of youth violence, teen pregnancies, and youth drug abuse a little discipline in a child’s life would them well. However, freedom and the ability to make decisions and choices independently are equally important to building a positive sense of self. Thus this article left me with a raised eyebrow while reading the extremities the administration has taken to discipline their students. On a surface level, I think the schools actions will not only foster a positive environment for their students but also better the community. However, my sole concern is how effective their new policy is, and will it really make a difference in the students’ lives. You decide. . .

School’s New Rule for Pupils in Trouble: No Fun

Brian Bridges, the principal of Cheektowaga Central Middle School in Cheektowaga, N.Y., monitors the hallways.

April 4, 2008

By WINNIE HU

"CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. — Like a bouncer at a nightclub, Melissa Gladwell was parked at the main entrance of Cheektowaga Central Middle School on Friday night, with a list of 150 names highlighted in yellow marker, the names of students barred from the after-hours games, crafts and ice cream because of poor grades or bad attitudes.
One school district essentially grounds middle school students whose grade in any class falls below 65."

Click Here to print version from NYT

Heels For Success: Episode 3: Rape, Sexual Assault, and Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Education

2008-03-03T23:12:00.000-05:00

On this edition of "Heels for Success" we discuss rape, sexual assault, and teen dating violence with Cindy Kuhn, an Education Specialist from the Butler County Rape Crisis Program. For more information visit www.heelsforsuccess.com

1.) To download this episode CLICK HERE .

2.) Use iTunes and search "Heels For Success" in the search box located at upper right corner, and subscribe via podcast.

3.) Subscribe to the show via RSS feed for updates CLICK HERE.

And, for more information visit www.heelsforsuccess.com

Long Awaited . . . I know, but I'm back!

2008-02-06T22:46:00.000-05:00

So, after an incredibly busy holiday, New Year, and Birthday . . .I'm back.

Check in soon for my latest updates!

S.

Heels For Success: Episode 2: Unveiling Eating Disorders with Adrienne Nothnagel

2008-02-05T23:01:00.000-05:00

On this edition of "Heels for Success" we discuss an issue that is affecting millions of women world wide, eating disorders and disordered eating with co-founder of IDEA (Individuals for Disordered Eating Awareness) Adrienne Nothnagel.

You can subscribe to this show using the following options:

1.) To download this episode CLICK HERE.

2.) Use iTunes and search "Heels For Success" in the search box located at upper right corner, and subscribe via podcast.

3.) Subscribe to the show via RSS feed for updates CLICK HERE.

And, for more information visit www.heelsforsuccess.com

Last Days at Voice of America

2008-01-06T23:11:00.000-05:00

One of my most unforgettable and life changing experiences was being a participant in Miami University's Inside Washington Program where I interned for Voice of America. . .

More to come soon . . .

Heels For Success: Episode 1: What's Up With Self Help? Discussing holisitc living with Dr. Jay Kimiecik

2008-01-03T23:00:00.000-05:00

On this edition of Heels for Success host Sophia Davis discusses the truth behind popular self help books, self esteem experts, and holistic living with Dr. Jay Kimiecik of Miami University

1.) To download this episode CLICK HERE .

2.) Use iTunes and search "Heels For Success" in the search box located at upper right corner, and subscribe via podcast.

3.) Subscribe to the show via RSS feed for updates CLICK HERE.

And, for more information visit www.heelsforsuccess.com

Heels For Success Debut!

2007-12-31T22:43:00.000-05:00

So after some pondering on my platform and personal mission to be a better advocate for children and young women, I had an"Ah-Ha moment".
After my wonderful experiences broadcasting internationally each week with Voice of America. . . Why not have my own show??

Thus, "HEELS (Holistic Empowering Education for Living with Style) for Success" is my new radio show which will air on Miami WMSR's student radio station and later be podcasted via iTunes internationally.

My mission is to raise minds, lift voices, and inspire souls by discussing the six fundamental points for personal success. Through discussion of the latest trends, my goal is to promote a positive and healthy self esteem in young women by sharing personal success stories and learning with wellness experts on topics covering physical, emotional, intellectual, social, environmental and spiritual wellbeing.

This will be such a fun project!

Stay tuned . . .

Merry Christmas!!!

2007-12-25T23:02:00.000-05:00

my mom, me, sis, and dad
Christmas Day December 25, 2007

Miss America and Ann Hand Jewelry Debut

2007-12-09T22:34:00.000-05:00

A few weekends ago I was delighted to go to the Miss America, Ann Hand jewelry debut. Ann Hand is a renowned jewelry designer based in Washington, DC who has designed high-flying jewelry collections for prominent American politicians and ambassadors. Her significance with American historical figures and leaders makes the Miss America and Ann Hand partnership most ideal!

Personally, I am a woman who loves pearls. However, Ann Hand has designed an exclusive collection for Miss America

that is chic and classic that can be worn by all ages.

Click Here for the Ann Hand Miss America Collection. 25% of the proceeds will benefit the Miss America Scholarship Program.

Me and Miss America 2007, Lauren Nelson (Top Right) Me and Miss America President & CEO, Art McMaster (Bottom Left)

Too Cute!

2007-12-05T23:50:00.000-05:00

I know - I realize I am slightly behind in post; and that I should probably post about issues that directly relate to my life. I promise- I will fill you in soon with all of my latest happenings! But first, I thought this bit on Ellen Degeneres was too good to pass!

While in DC, I have had the pleasure of reading numerous articles featuring the Bush family. And, I am continuously impressed by the grace, charm, wit, and intelligence of the Bush women -- Mrs. Bush for her increasing voice in foreign affairs and Jenna Bush for her courageous successes authoring the book Ana's Story: A Journey of Hope and bringing the topic of AIDS to a global arena. I believe the Bush women are truly role models and I appreciate the work and leadership they display in both their private and public lives. Here is the clip from Ellen. Enjoy!

**note: I realize this clip has absolutely nothing to do with their political or social work, however when I saw this it made me think of my family and relationship with my parents. It was a moment where we saw the real Jenna -- it was cute!*****

Jenna Bush on the Ellen Degeneres show, 12/5/07

Way Cool: Argentina's First Lady Wins Presidency by Wide Margin

2007-11-30T23:48:00.000-05:00

I am fully aware that the news of Argentina's first female elected president has been known for almost a full month. However, I am elated to announce and support another female world leader. Regardless of her personal political affiliations, I believe it is important to have a diverse representation of leaders in our communities at home and abroad. What attracts me to President Fernández de Kirchner is her unique balance of great leadership, class, and style. It is refreshing to see a female leader, who can make decisions with an iron fist, lead a battalion of 100 men, and achieve it all while in glamorous pink high heels . . .

Agence France-Presse/Getty Images

WOMAN OF POWER Cristina Fernández de Kirchner in Argentina. She is the most prominent of a wave of women gaining office in Latin America.

Argentina's First Lady Wins Presidency by Wide Margin
Fernandez de Kirchner Vows to 'Deepen' Policies

By Monte Reel
Washington Post Foreign Service
Monday, October 29, 2007; 10:10 AM

BUENOS AIRES, Oct. 28 -- The presidency of Argentina was handed from husband to wife Sunday, as first lady Cristina FernÃ¡ndez de Kirchner crushed 13 opposition candidates on the promise of adhering to the political principles that made President NÃ©stor Kirchner one of Latin America's most popular leaders.
Results with around 95 percent of polling places reporting showed that FernÃ¡ndez de Kirchner had received about 45 percent of the vote, nearly twice that of the second place finisher and enough of a margin to avoid a runoff.
The victory makes her the second woman to be elected president in South America in the past two years, after Chile's Michelle Bachelet.

For full article Click Here.

Way Cool: "One for All and All for Run"

2007-11-29T14:56:00.000-05:00

Girls on the Run: Kira Sweetman (center) laughs during an exercise that involves Zoe Lunn (left), Lauren Rutzen, Clare Connally and Natalie Zur.

Photo Credit: Photos By Susan Biddle -- The Washington Post

"Middle school can be difficult for tweens, who want to be cool and have lots of friends. Girls on the Run tries to help girls in grades 3 through 8 feel good about themselves, make good decisions and think less about being cool and more about being healthy and nice to one another." Click here for entire article

Way Cool: "To Muslim Girls, Scouts Offer a Chance to Fit In"

2007-11-28T15:00:00.000-05:00

To Muslim Girls, Scouts Offer a Chance to Fit In

Farheen Hakeem, right, with a predominantly Muslim Girl Scout troop she leads in Minneapolis. Taken By: Allen Brisson-Smith for The New York Times

New York Times: November 28, 2007
By NEIL MacFARQUHAR

MINNEAPOLIS — Sometimes when Asma Haidara, a 12-year-old Somali immigrant, wants to shop at Target or ride the Minneapolis light-rail system, she puts her Girl Scout sash over her everyday clothes, which usually include a long skirt worn over pants as well as a swirling head scarf.

She has discovered that the trademark green sash — with its American flag, troop number (3009) and colorful merit badges — reduces the number of glowering looks she draws from people otherwise bothered by her traditional Muslim dress.

“When you say you are a girl scout, they say, ‘Oh, my daughter is a girl scout, too,’ and then they don’t think of you as a person from another planet,” said Asma, a slight, serious girl with a bright smile. “They are more comfortable about sitting next to me on the train.”

Scattered Muslim communities across the United States are forming Girl Scout troops as a sort of assimilation tool to help girls who often feel alienated from the mainstream culture, and to give Muslims a neighborly aura. Boy Scout troops are organized with the same inspiration, but often the leap for girls is greater because many come from conservative cultures that frown upon their participating in public physical activity.

By teaching girls to roast hot dogs or fix a flat bicycle tire, Farheen Hakeem, one troop leader here, strives to help them escape the perception of many non-Muslims that they are different.

Scouting is a way of celebrating being American without being any less Muslim, Ms. Hakeem said.

“I don’t want them to see themselves as Muslim girls doing this ‘Look at us, we are trying to be American,’ ” she said. “No, no, no, they are American. It is not an issue of trying.”

The exact number of Muslim girl scouts is unknown, especially since, organizers say, most Muslim scouts belong to predominantly non-Muslim troops. Minneapolis is something of an exception, because a few years ago the Girl Scout Council here surveyed its shrinking enrollment and established special outreach coordinators for various minorities. Some 280 Muslim girls have joined about 10 predominantly Muslim troops here, said Hodan Farah, who until September was the Scout coordinator for the Islamic community.

Nationally, the Boy Scouts of America count about 1,500 youths in 100 clubs of either Boy Scouts or Cub Scouts sponsored by Islamic organizations, said Gregg Shields, a spokesman for the organization.

The Girl Scouts’ national organization, Girl Scouts of the U.S.A., has become flexible in recent years about the old trappings associated with suburban, white, middle-class Christian scouting. Many troops have done away with traditions like saying grace before dinner at camp, and even the Girl Scout Promise can be retooled as needed.

“On my honor I will try to serve Allah and my country, to help people and live by the Girl Scout law,” eight girls from predominantly Muslim Troop 3119 in Minneapolis recited on one recent rainy Sunday before setting off for a cookout in a local park.

Some differences were readily apparent, of course. At the cookout, Ms. Hakeem, a former Green Party candidate for mayor, negotiated briefly with one sixth grader, Asha Gardaad, who was fasting for the holy month of Ramadan.

“If you break your fast, will your mother get mad at me?” Ms. Hakeem asked. Asha shook her head emphatically no.

The troop leader distributed supplies: hot dogs followed by s’mores for dessert. All was halal — that is, in adherence with the dietary requirements of Islamic law — with the hot dogs made of beef rather than pork.

It was Asha’s first s’more. “It’s delicious!” she exclaimed, licking sticky goop off her fingers as thunder crashed outside the park shelter with its roaring fire. “It’s a good way to break my fast!”

Women trying to organize Girl Scout troops in Muslim communities often face resistance from parents, particularly immigrants from an Islamic culture like that of Somalia, where tradition dictates that girls do housework after school.

In Nashville, where Ellisha King of Catholic Charities helps run a Girl Scout troop on a shoestring to assist Somali children with acculturation, most parents vetoed a camping trip, for example. They figured years spent as refugees in tents was enough camping, Ms. King recalled.

But a more common concern among parents is that the Girl Scouts will somehow dilute Islamic traditions.

“They are afraid you are going to become a blue-eyed, blond-haired Barbie doll,” said Asma, the girl who at times makes her sash everyday attire. Asma noted that her mother had asked whether she was joining some Christian cabal. “She was afraid that if we hang out with Americans too much,” the young immigrant said, “it will change our culture or who we are.”

Troop leaders win over parents by explaining that various activities incorporate Muslim traditions. In Minneapolis, for instance, Ms. Hakeem helped develop the Khadija Club, named for the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad, which exposes older girls to the history of prominent Muslim women.

Suboohi Khan, 10, won her Bismallah (in the name of God) ribbon by writing 4 of God’s 99 names in Arabic calligraphy and decorating them, as well as memorizing the Koran’s last verse, used for protection against gossips and goblins. Otherwise, she said, her favorite badge involved learning “how to make body glitter and to see which colors look good on us” and “how to clean up our nails.”

Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. does not issue religious badges, but endorses those established by independent groups. Gulafshan K. Alavi started one such group, the Islamic Committee on Girl Scouting, in Stamford, Conn., in 1990. The demand for information about Muslim badges, Mrs. Alavi said, has grown to the point where this year she had the pamphlet listing her club’s requirements printed rather than sending out a photocopied flier. She also shipped up to 400 patches awarded to girls who study Ramadan traditions, she said, the most ever.

Predominantly Muslim troops do accept non-Muslim members. In Minneapolis, Alexis Eastlund, 10, said other friends sometimes pestered her about belonging to a mostly Muslim troop, although she has known many of its members half her life.

“I never really thought of them as different,” Alexis said. “But other girls think that it is weird that I am Christian and hang out with a bunch of Muslim girls. I explain to them that they are the same except they have to wear a hijab on their heads.”

Ms. Farah, who served as an outreach coordinator in Minneapolis and remains active in the Scouts, said she used the organization as a platform to try to ease tensions in the community. Scraps between African-American and Somali girls prompted her to start a research project demonstrating to them that their ancestors all came from roughly the same place.

Ms. Hakeem, the troop leader, said she tried to find projects to improve the girls’ self-esteem, like going through the Eddie Bauer catalog to cut out long skirts and other items that adhere to Islamic dress codes.

All in all, scouting gives the girls a rare sense of belonging, troop leaders and members say.

“It is kind of cool to say that you are a girl scout,” Asma said. “It is good to have something to associate yourself with other Americans. I don’t want people to think that I am a hermit, that I live in a cave, isolated and afraid of change. I like to be part of society. I like being able to say that I am a girl scout just like any other normal girl.”
Click here print version of NYT article.

Way Cool Series

2007-11-28T11:37:00.000-05:00

Anyone who truly knows me -- knows that I am complete a news junky!

When I am at school I usually have a spread of the New York Times on my bed, CNN running, and the BBC web page popped open in my Internet browser. At work, I read the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post daily; I have CNN running on my television monitor and I'm frequently researching any news topic I find interesting. I am almost pathetically obsessed with knowing what's going on not only in the United States but also internationally . . .

Thus, the creation of my "Way Cool!" series. I will be posting articles and news stories that I find to be exceptional and/or incredibly interesting on my blog to share with my readers.

These posts are not to promote the resources I receive them from, but to help my readers grasp a better understanding of what is important and interesting to me.

I hope you enjoy! Stay tuned . . .

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T23:58:00.000-05:00

For the first time ever, I was not with my family on this Thanksgiving Holiday. Instead, I decided to strategically stay in Washington, DC mainly to continue my internship with VOA.

At VOA I work on two of the weekly programs the English News Analysis Division broadcast, Press Conference USA, and Encounter. As an intern, I felt it was important to continue working through the holiday, not only because of my commitment to my job, but working at VOA is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Each week, we have new guest and you never know whom you'll run into. I'm glad I stated because I had the opportunity to meet the French Ambassador Pierre Vimont. Ambassador Vimont and his Director Emmanuel were so warm, thoughtful, funny, and extremely endearing. I enjoyed the listening to the interview and gaining some incite on French foreign policy.

If any of you missed it the newly elected French President Nicolas Sarkozy recently addressed the U.S. Congress on November 7th, 2007. His speech was incredibly inspiring. His eloquent remarks about the United States, our culture, history, and friendship with France, I believe are certainly are comparable to the great speeches of our former president Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Above is President Sarkozy's November 7th speech.

Meeting the Ambassador and listening to the President's speech was inspiring and has helped me understand a little more about French culture.

On Thanksgiving Day, I volunteered at the Washington, DC Center for the Aged.

Interviewing Congressman Dennis Kucinich

2007-11-22T23:57:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, November 14, 2007 I interviewed the Democratic candidate and Congressman Dennis Kucinich (OH-10th)

Mr. Kucinich is one of 8 Democratic candidates in the 2008 Presidential race and frequently represents those who lean far left on the political spectrum. Throughout his rein in the U.S. House of Representatives Congressman Kucinich has consistently opposed free trade agreements such as NAFTA and CAFTA, opposed the PATRIOT ACT, fought against social security cuts, opposed the Iraq War, proposes international nuclear disbarment, favors Universal Health Care, and is the foreman for the impeachment of Vice President Dick Cheney.

Kucinich ran for the Democratic Presidential nomination in 2004 with less than 1% of the vote and despite his legions of followers in 2008, he still remains to lead current American polls.

My interview with the congressman was extremely intriguing. Kucinich, like many politicians is a individual strong in his convictions and sincere about making a difference in the world. What I found most interesting about Mr. Kucinich was his Utopian like ideals for world peace. He truly is a man who stands firm to his word, preaching an ideology full of words rather than weapons and peaceful understanding rather than divisional polarization.

Two significant points I would like to note about our interview with Kucinich was is thoughts on "Illegal Immigration vs. Undocumented Workers" and "Media Driven Politics".

In regards to illegal immigration, I agree with Congressman Kucinich. The media overuses the term "illegal" instigating an extremely xenophobic and often deceitful picture of those who come to the United States more often than not for honest work than anything else. I understand that technically those who come to the United States without documentation are breaking the law thus the term "illegal". However, I agree, our trade agreements are not only are blotched -- they need revisions. I did extensive work on CAFTA legislation will interning on Capitol Hill in the summer of 2005 and will never forget the policy briefing I attended on the effects of free trade agreements and women. This influx of immigrants isn't a simply a social problem, it's economic.

Above is Congressman Kucinich reference to "Illegal Immigration vs. Undocumented People" at the CNN Democratic Debate in Las Vegas on November.

Secondly, the media largely shapes our views of politicians. It's actually quite frightening how lighting, shots, and makeup can make potential candidates seem youthful vs. old and powerful vs. meek. Major news networks have, from the beginning, disproportionately focused on possibly what they claim to be "The Major Candidate" for the 2008 Presidential race. When they host debates, those who are "front-runners" often get more camera time, more questions, and are shed in more positive light. CNN, FOX, MSNBC, etc. are all guilty of this. And honestly, I sympathize with the Congressman because it's a debate that seems almost impossible to monitor. Really the chicken or the egg theory can easily be applied here. Does the media focus on these candidates because the American citizens and their consumers want to know more about them, or does the media focus on these candidates greatly thus influencing the American population on what is or is not important?? You decide.

Click here for "Other Voices: In the Horse Race, Do the Media Pick the Horse?" -- a letter to the editor featured in the New York Times about media politics.

All in all, the interview with Kucinich was enlightening and I wish him the best on the campaign trail!

Click here for the link to my interview with Congressman Dennis Kucinich

Servin it Up! Week 7 All American Style

2007-11-21T01:12:00.000-05:00

This week I wanted to prepare something that was "All-American" and had a magnificent time cooking Emeril's Most Kicked-Up Meatloaf Ever, 3-Cheese Mac & Cheese, and Quick Southern Collard Greens. My roommates loved everything, and the recipes were definitely a hit! I was a little nervous to cook meatloaf considering it was my first time and the only time I have ever had it, was outside my home. However - Emeril’s recipe was absolutely charming.

Emeril’s Most Kicked-Up Meatloaf Ever
(Courtesy of the Food Network)

Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic, plus 1 teaspoon
1 teaspoon chopped thyme leaves
1 teaspoon chopped rosemary
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 cup ketchup, plus 1/4 cup
2 tablespoons plus
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup Heavy cream
2/3 cup Breadcrumbs
1 pound ground chuck
1/2 pound pork sausage (such as breakfast sausage)
1/2 pound ground veal
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons plus 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 slices bacon, cut in half
2 tablespoons white or red wine vinegar
1/2 cup canned tomatoes, chopped or crushed

Directions
In a large skillet heat the butter over medium-high heat until melted. Add all but 1/4 cup of the onions, the celery and all but 2 tablespoons of the bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and beginning to caramelize around the edges, about 6 minutes. Add 2 teaspoons of the garlic, the thyme, rosemary, and parsley and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. When the vegetable mixture is cooled, transfer to a mixing bowl and add the eggs, mustard, 1/4 cup of the ketchup, 1 teaspoon of the Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream and mix until thoroughly combined. Add the breadcrumbs, ground chuck, pork sausage, ground veal, 1 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper and mix until just combined. Do not over mix.

Transfer meat mixture to a 9 by 5 by 3-inch loaf pan and using your hands, form mixture into a loaf shape. Arrange the slices of bacon on the top of the meatloaf and set aside.

In a small saucepan combine the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped onion, remaining 2 tablespoons of green pepper, remaining teaspoon of garlic, remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup, remaining 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, remaining 2 teaspoons of pepper, vinegar, and canned tomatoes and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Pour the sauce over the uncooked meatloaf and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the bacon and sauce are slightly caramelized on the top of the meatloaf. Remove from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Slice and serve along with the Macaroni with 4 Cheeses.

Sophia’s 3 Cheese Mac & Cheese

Ingredients
12 ounces dried elbow macaroni (2-2/3 cups)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup milk
½ cup butter melted
1 egg
½ teaspoon ground white pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
8 ounces American cheese, cut into ½ inch cubes (I used Velveeta)
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups)
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups)

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degree F. In a large pot cook macaroni according to package directions; drain. Return to pot
2. Add milk, melted butter, egg, pepper, and salt. Stir in cheeses transfer to greased 2-quart casserole.
3. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Let it stand 10 min. before serving. Makes 8-10 side-dish servings.

Quick Southern Collard Greens

Ingredients
1 14.5 oz. can of Glory Collard Greens
½ cup chopped onions
½ cup chopped red bell pepper
1 small chopped jalapeño pepper
2 fried slides of bacon

Directions
1. Heat collard greens, onions, bell peppers, jalapeño pepper and bacon in sauce pan for 20 min.
2. Serve :O)

Voice of America: Boys II Men

2007-11-12T21:49:00.000-05:00

The R&B group, Boys II Men, have been entertaining international audiences for almost two decades. Consisting of Nathan Morris, Michael McCary, Shawn Stockman, and Wanya Morris, the group’s greatest hits include “End of the Road”, “One Sweet Day”, and “I’ll Make Love to You”; which have all toped the Billboard Hot 100 Charts at #1.

Today, at the Voice of America studios I had the pleasure of meeting 3 of the 4 group members, Nathan, Shawn, and Wanya. Michael is still part of the group, but due to medical reasons and the strenuous tour schedule, he no longer tours with the quartet.

In conjunction with their new album, Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA, and future tours; the group was featured on VOA’s hit music program “Border Crossing” hosted by Larry London.

It was extremely exciting to not only watch one of my favorite groups during their interview session, but listen to a live performance! The group sang “End of the Road” and “The Tracks of My Tears”. The harmonizing sound of their voices was absolutely mesmerizing and beautiful!

I highly recommend purchasing their new album and it would be no surprise if this threesome tops the charts again. They did a wonderful job and it is truly inspiring how these four men continue to be great role models not only in the United States, but to people around the world

Servin It Up! Turkey Salad Harvest

2007-11-12T21:36:00.000-05:00

Wow - I can’t believe I’m on week six! Boy does time fly by when you’re having fun!

This week’s recipe was Turkey Salad Harvest.

Ingredients:
1 cup Miracle Whip
¼ teaspoon ginger
1 ½ cup chopped apple
2 teaspoon lemon juice
2 cups chopped cooked turkey
½ cup sliced celery
¼ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup dried raisins
½ cup halved red grapes
Lettuce leaves
2 tablespoons slice almonds
2 tablespoons crushed walnuts

Directions:
1. For dressing in small bowl – stir together miracle whip and ginger. Set aside.
2. In a medium mixing bowl toss the apple with lemon juice. Stir in the turkey; celery; raisins; cranberries; grapes; almonds; and walnuts add the dressing.
3. Stir until thoroughly combined. Cover and chill for 30 min. to 1 hour to blend flavors.
4. To serve line 2 individual salad bowls or plates with lettuce leaves. Stir in the turkey mixture. Spoon turkey mixture atop of lettuce.

This dish goes nicely with buttery croissants, cinnamon raisin bagels, and muffins.

Halloween Night!

2007-11-06T00:11:00.000-05:00

Although Halloween has come and gone, I had a wonderful night. I invited my peers over for cupcakes and cookies and dressed up as a Scarecrow!

I suppose it is a Washington DC tradition to go to Georgetown to observe other people’s costumes and walk up and down the streets with friends and family. Sounds Odd, but it was a blast. Georgetown is absolutely beautiful! However, I think I did more “window shopping” than actual “costume watching”. There were so many people you literally could not walk. Honestly – I stood at a standstill with my friend for 20 minutes. Here are some pictures of my night!

"Servin It Up! " Veal Scaloppine with Marsala

2007-11-05T23:03:00.000-05:00

Week 5: Veal Scaloppine with Marsala

This was my first time fixing veal. And, while i thoughy enjoyed the veal, the recipe was not the greatest. I follewed it to a T. However, my only complaint is that the dish is bland. I like flavor and spices and this dish didn't quite make the cut. This recipie is from the the Better Homes and Garden collection.

Ingredients
1-1/2 cups fresh mushrooms, quartered, halved, or sliced
1/4 cup sliced green onion
4 teaspoons margarine or butter
8 ounces veal leg round steak or sirloin steak or 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup dry Marsala or dry sherry (I used Sherry)
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley

Directions
1. In a 12-inch skillet cook mushrooms and green onion in 2 teaspoons of the hot margarine or butter for 4 to 5 minutes or until tender. Remove from skillet; set aside.
2. Meanwhile, cut veal into 2 serving-size pieces. Place one piece of veal or one chicken breast between 2 sheets of clear plastic wrap. Working from center to edges, pound lightly with the flat side of a meat mallet to about 1/8-inch thickness. Remove plastic wrap. Repeat with remaining veal or chicken.
3. Sprinkle meat with salt and pepper. In the same skillet cook veal or chicken in the remaining hot margarine or butter over medium-high heat about 1 minute on each side or until light brown. Transfer to warm dinner plates; keep warm.
4. Add Marsala or sherry and chicken broth to drippings in skillet. Bring to boiling; boil gently, uncovered, about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits. Return mushroom mixture to skillet; add parsley. Heat through.
5. To serve, spoon the mushroom mixture over meat. Serve immediately. Makes 2 servings.
Note: Double this recipe to serve 4, but cook the meat half at a time.

Servin It Up! Turkey Spinach Toss

2007-11-05T22:43:00.000-05:00

Week 4: “Turkey Spinach Toss”
This dish was absolutely fabulous. It was quick and easy to make, it literally took 20 minutes from start to finish. If you are looking for a great, healthy, and fast dinner after work this recipe is certainly for you! Living in a metropolitan city - sometimes you literally have access to the world, however due to time - I used chicken instead of turkey . This recipie is from Better Homes and Garden

Ingredients:
2 8-oz. turkey breast tenderloins, halved horizontally
1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
2 Tbsp. butter
2 oz. thinly sliced deli ham, cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup orange juice
2 9- to 10-oz. pkgs. fresh spinach
1 orange, cut into wedge

Directions:
1. Season turkey with 1/4 teaspoon pepper. In very large skillet heat butter over medium-high heat; add turkey. Cook 12 minutes or until no longer pink (170F); turn once.
2. Remove turkey from skillet. Slice into strips; cover and keep warm. Add ham to skillet; cook and stir 1 minute or until heated and starting to crisp. With slotted spoon remove ham from skillet. Add juice; bring to boiling.
3. Add spinach, half at a time, to skillet; cook 1 minute or until just wilted. Add orange wedges with second batch of spinach. Using tongs, remove from skillet; divide among plates. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with turkey and ham. Drizzle with remaining juices from skillet. If desired, Makes 4 servings.