St. John's Gets NCAA Tournament Bid Much To LSU's Chagrin

The chances for an NCAA Tournament bid didn't look good for the St. John's men's baseball team after losing to Seton Hall in the Big East championship game on Sunday, but the Red Storm were given one of the final at-large berths to make the field of 64 for the fourth time in five years.  National power LSU cried that the selection of St. John's is a farce and says the NCAA should take a look at how they select the 64 team field.

LSU (36-20) is claiming that they play in a tougher conference and should have been picked over the Johnnies.  St. John's (35-20) finished second in both the Big East regular season standings and championship series.  It is arguably the best team in the northeast.

For the record, LSU finished 9th in the SEC and didn't make their own conference tournament finals.

The Tigers are screaming that their #23 RPI and 12-3 finish entitles the team to be picked ahead of the Red Storm, who go into the NCAA's with a respectable #54 RPI.

"I would say that this year, as a committee, we didn't use RPI as the hammer that maybe it was in previous years," said Tim Weiser, the chairman of the 10-member NCAA Selection Committee.

If LSU wants to find a culprit, the school should look at some of the automatic-bids awarded to winners of conference championships.



New Mexico (20-39) and UALR (24-32) won their respective conference title games (Mountain West and Sun Belt) and will be coasting into this year's tournament field. 

St. John's is a second place team in the Big East conference.  It's hard to argue with all the the RPI's and the fact that seven SEC teams were selected to the tournament that LSU doesn't have a case, but don't blame St. John's.

Sure, Big East baseball will probably never be compared to the SEC, but other factors in St. John's success should be taken into consideration.

For one thing, LSU is a ninth place team. They should know only Big East basketball gets nine or more teams into a tournament. 

Secondly, the Red Storm play in colder weather.  They don't see a home field game until mid-March after they've played about a dozen games on the road.  By seasons end, St. John's has played nearly two-thirds of their games on the road.
 
"The debate is a consistent one: How do you measure a second-place team versus, for example, a ninth-place team?," said Weiser.  " We've got a divided group in that regard."

While LSU sulks, St. John's rejoices about it's # 3 seed in the regional hosted by top-seed Virginia.

"It felt pretty good," said St. John's head coach Ed Blankmeyer.  "It made it a lot easier to enjoy the rest of [the selection show]...It was exciting for me, and I felt very happy for the players."

The Red Storm is no NCAA interloper.  This will be the 33rd appearance in the NCAA Tournament for St. John's--the eighth most by any school.

Last year, St. John's was also in the same bracket as #1 Virginia and beat them in the first game before losing the rematch with the Super Regionals within their grasp.

This year the Red Storm will face # 2 seed East Carolina on Friday before tangling with #1 Virginia and #4 Navy over the weekend.

For now, put all the conspiracy theories to rest.

Mediocre AL West Means King Felix Won't Be Going To Yankees...Or Anywhere

The New York Yankees have been drooling all over Seattle Mariners pitcher Felix Hernandez for three years.  Rumors circulating about the Yankees swiping King Felix from the Mariners are just that--idle talk.  New York has a better chance of putting Keith Hernandez in pinstripes this season.

Every summer, while the Mariners wallowed in last place and New York chased another playoff spot, the whispers about the Yankees getting Hernandez before the July 31 trading deadline got louder.  This year the Mariners will put a gag on it.

Unlike last year, when the hit-challenged Mariners were going through the motions by June, red hot Seattle now finds itself in the midst of a division race and no need to unload their ace.

The Mariners have won nine of their last 10 games and are tangled up in the wide-open AL West race which separates all four teams by only 2 games.  

Hernandez, the 25 year-old righthander, is one of the most valuable commodities in the majors and there isn't one team that wouldn't want him.  Once a team has an arm like his, you don't let it go.



Combine  Hernandez with the Mariners latest phenom, Michael Pineda, and you've got one of the best 1-2 punches in the American League for the next few years.  The Mariners GM, Jack Zduriencik, would be run out of town for trading away Hernandez--the foundation of the team for three more years.

The Yankees, meanwhile, are still looking for their front-line starter and an rotation identity.  CC Sabathia has been his usual work-horse self.  A.J. Burnett has reverted back to his bi-polar ways while Freddy Garcia and Bartolo Colon are low-rent pick-ups who have been capable four and five starters, but both are susceptible to their aging arms fading down the stretch.  That leaves the Yankees young guns--Phil Hughes and Ivan Nova.

Comparing Hernandez and Pineda to the Yankees youngest arms can only make Yankees GM Brian Cashman cry.

Nova has held his own in his first season in the starting rotation,  but has not shown the unbridled potential of a Pineda. And then there is Hughes.

Hughes was supposed to be the Yankees' wunderkind, but has been troubled by dead arm troubles.  Hernandez is the same age as Hughes but it seems like the Mariner pitcher is Hughes' grandpa.  Hernandez was nineteen when he broke in to the majors in 2005 and seems to have gotten better every year.  Hughes was shuttled between the bullpen and limited innings during that same time and doesn't even come close to having the body of work his Seattle counterpart has.

Hernandez went 19-5 in 2009 and, even on last year's pitiful Mariners team, went 13-12 and picked up the Cy Young Award for his efforts.

Hughes seemed to be living up to his potential in 2010.  He won 18 games last year, but struggled after the All-Star break.  His troubles continued into 2011 and, unless he can regain his fastball, he is only a shell of what Hernandez is.

Hernandez signed a 5-year $78 million contract which keeps his talent in Seattle through 2014.  Until then, Yankee fans can only dream about King Felix coming to the Bronx.  On the bright side, he'll only be 28 and still in his prime.

Jurors in Casey Anthony Trial Will See Recording of Lightning-Bruins Playoff Game

The jurors in the Casey Anthony murder trial found out this morning they will be allowed to watch a recorded tape of tonight's Game 7 Stanley Cup Playoff match-up between their home team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, and the Boston Bruins.  The 12 jurors and five alternates broke out in applause when Judge Belvin Perry announced his decision regarding the big game.

The sequestered Clearwater, Florida jury, selected from the Tampa Bay area, was transported to Orlando after Judge Perry made arrangements for Friday's 8 p.m. EST game to be recorded and shown later to the jurors of the highly-publicized case.

This is the first Game 7 in the Eastern Conference finals in five years and will be played at the TD Garden in Boston.

Anthony was charged with 1st degree murder after her 2 year-old daughter was found dead in 2008.  The polarizing trial has received a lot of national media attention.

The winner of tonight's Lightning-Bruins game will face the Vancouver Canucks in the Stanley Cup Finals.  The Canucks defeated the San Jose Sharks in five games.

The murder trial began Tuesday with opening statements after 11 days of jury selection.  The trial is expected to last about two months.

The finals series begin Wed. June 1 in Vancouver and a game seven would be played there on June 15.

Which means, if the Lightning win tonight, the jurors will probably continue seeing delayed tapes of the Lightning games throughout the Finals.

Time For Yankees Girardi To Make The Switch From Swish

It's been hard to watch Nick Swisher struggle at the plate while the New York Yankees bob-and-weave their way through the AL East, but it's even tougher to seeing Andruw Jones gathering rust in the dugout.

Last night, Jones was the knockout punch after he went 3-for-3 with 2 home-runs and 4 RBI's in the Yankees 7-3 win over division-rival the Toronto Blue Jays.  Swisher's struggles continued as he went 0-for-3 and his average dropped to a miniscule .204.

It's time for Yankees manager Joe Girardi to make a move in right field and give Jones more at-bats.

Jones has been used sparingly since he signed a one-year deal with the team for $2 million.  The reserve right-fielder/DH is batting .240 with 4 home-runs and 7 RBI's in 50 at-bats.

Swisher, meanwhile, has been consistent this year--consistently horrible.  He has 2 home-runs and 19 RBI's to go with that barely-beating average in 152 at-bats.



It seems like a no-brainer, but it's not an easy call for Girardi.  Swisher is one of the best liked players on the team, among teammates and fans, and played a major part in the Yankees 2009 World Series run.  But facts are facts and Swisher is a black hole in the line-up right now.

Girardi always allows the regular players to get their fair share of time in so they can gain momentum and not lose confidence.  Swisher's 152 at-bats has been enough time for him to lose momentum and confidence in one fair shake.  Through it all, Swisher keeps smiling.

Jones' confidence is what Girardi should be nurturing.  Especially with a rugged 19 game schedule facing the Yankees over the course of the next three weeks.  Three weeks that could be the barometer of which direction the Yankees are headed.

The Yankees begin a nine-game west coast swing against three of the top four team pitching ERA's in the AL--the Seattle Mariners, the Oakland A's and Los Angeles Angels-- before coming home to three power-packed line-ups--the Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers. 

Girardi will need all the fire power he can muster.

The 34 year-old Jones knows his place on this team but, besides being a solid hitter, is a 10-time Gold Glove winner.

"It was a great day, you know," said Jones after yesterday's victory.  "I had three swings today, I got three hits.  So that's what I'm looking for."

Last year, with the Chicago White Sox, Jones was a back-up, but got 276 at-bats due to injuries to Carlos Quentin, and still banged out 19 home-runs.

The Yankees have shopped around the idea of adding another big bat.  Jorge Posada's woes as DH and Swisher's light hitting have to be a concern to Girardi, even though the manager stuck with Brett Gardner through his slump until the left-fielder found his groove.  Maybe Jones' bat has been the answer all along.

Jones' grin is a little puffier than the 19 year-old Atlanta Brave who batted .400 against the Yankees in the 1996 World Series or when he hit 51 homers in 2005, but the pop is still in his bat.  Yesterday, one of his blasts cleared the 408-foot wall in centerfield.

For now Jones is thankful for any playing time.

"Everybody wants to play more," said Jones.  "Nobody wants to be on the bench and watch the game."

Maybe it's time for Jones to stop watching.  He deserves a shot.

Amar'e Stoudemire To Produce Hollywood Fright Flick

Amar'e Stoudemire must be counting on an NBA lockout next season.  It's not like the New York Knicks forward doesn't already have enough projects on his plate, but now you can add the title of film producer to his resume.  The Knicks star will be going Hollywood and producing "The Strangers 2," a sequel to the scary 2008 original "The Strangers."

No, the followup isn't about Isiah Thomas returning to the front office or the playoff sweep by the Boston Celtics--even thought both of those story-lines are pretty spooky to Knicks fans.

Stoudemire is in talks with Relativity Media honcho Ryan Kavanuagh to executive produce "The Strangers 2."  In other words, Stoudemire is putting money into the production and will get a director's chair with his name on it.



The original film was a $9 million production which grossed over $80 million worldwide.  It starred Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman as a young couple terrorized by three weirdos in masks.

The 6'10' Stoudemire talked about his new venture at a party in Manhattan.  "Ever see 'The Strangers?'  It's a scary movie...It's crazy," he said.  Cue the slasher music.

Relativity Media has also backed and distributed other films including "Bridemaids," "The Fighter" and "The Social Network."

Stoudemire hasn't been idle or laying low this off-season.  He is currently filming "Entourage" in Los Angeles and recently filmed a cameo in Garry Marshall's "New Year's Eve" in New York City.

Not only is the Knicks star giving James Franco a run as the busiest guy in Hollywood, he is launching a clothing line with Rachel Roy this fall.  Did I mention, he's a rapper too.  Who isn't these days.

If Stoudemire really wants to be Cecil B. DeMille and  produce a blockbuster, he should get Chris Paul to join Carmelo Anthony and himself on the New York Knicks.  Stoudemire could call it "Three Amigos 2."

That's something New Yorkers would kiss him "on the veranda" for.  Okay, the lips would be fine.

Kim Kardashian Accepts Kris Humphries Proposal Even Though He Is Still A Net

New Jersey Nets forward Kris Humphries is officially engaged to Kim Kardashian.  Humphries slipped a 20.5 carat diamond ring on the reality-show star's finger last week.  It's amazing the publicity-crazed family kept the engagement under wraps for so long.  Must have been planning a TV series or store opening.

E News confirmed that the 26 year-old Humphries popped the question to his 30 year-old bride-to-be on May 18 at Kardashian's Beverly Hills home.

When asked about custom-designed engagement ring, Humphries gushed, "I just wanted it to be big."

To put the token of love into perspective, Kate Middleton's rock is a paltry 18 carat piece of bling.

Kardashian's response to the big moment, after six months of courtship, was blogging "OMGGGGGG" to her legion of fans.

Those Kardashian girls seem to have caught NBA fever.  Kim's sister Khloe is married to Los Angeles Laker Lamar Odom--a relationship which was custom made for a cable television audience.  This relationship should be no different.

Expect another annoying reality show counting down the days to Humphries and Kardashian's big day.  Just what the world needs more shrieking woman and shameless self-promotion.  At least we get to see Bruce Jenner try to make his facial muscles work.

The good news for Humphries, he is still an NBA player.  The bad news, he's still a New Jersey Net.  Have fun in Newark Kim.

A-Rod's Speeding Ticket Yanked By NYPD

A serious claim, made by sources involved in the New York Police Department's ongoing ticket-fixing scandal, accuses officers of burying a speeding ticket New York Yankees shortstop Alex Rodriguez got in 2009.

According to the New York Daily News, former-Yankees team owner George Steinbrenner was also a beneficiary of  mishandled summonses.

The NYPD ticket-fixing probe has widened in the past few weeks.  Police Commissioner Ray Kelly has extended the probe after the initial drug investigation concentrated on only one precinct but has now mushroomed into a wide-spread scandal.  It now involves over 100 cops and their superiors in various station houses.

Two sources said A-Rod was pulled over for hot-rodding on the West Side Highway around 57th Street two years ago.  He was issued a speeding ticket by a highway cop, but an NYPD sergeant had it disappear.



According to the Daily News, three sources gave accounts of numerous politicians and celebrities having summonses squashed.

"It was very easy for a big name to walk away from a summons," one source said.  "[Celebrities] have contacts everywhere.  There's an eagerness to help because of who they are."

Steinbrenner, according to the source, used his influence to get rid of tickets for friends and family many times over the years.

The practice was so blatant, some celebrities were bold enough to have representatives call Police Headquarters, outright, and ask to get their clients tickets fixed.

The sources claim rapper Jay-Z's driver was also nabbed for speeding in almost the exact spot as A-Rod.  The paperwork was "lost" and the case never saw the day of light.  The cop must have been in an Empire State of Mind.

Even former-Knick and current-Denver Nugget Raymond Felton was called for a moving violation outside Madison Square Garden and it disappeared faster than the Knicks against the Celtics.

The long-standing practice of NYPD cops  fixing tickets was always considered a professional courtesy and not a crime.  Up to 40 cops are now facing departmental charges for fixing the tickets for cash or gifts.

Spokespersons for Rodriguez, the Yankees or the Knicks had no comment about the allegations or if they were part of the Bronx grand jury probe.

I'm just wondering if Mets owner Fred Wilpon would be able to talk his way out of a speeding ticket these days.  He has such a special way with words.

Eli Reaches Out To Plaxico: Ex-Giant Goes From Lockdown To Lockout

Plaxico Burress is on course be released as scheduled from an upstate New York prison on June 6 and the former-Giants player has a big supporter in Eli Manning.  The Giants quarterback believes his former-wide receiver has paid his dues and could still be a productive member of an NFL team.

Too bad for Burress the labor dispute between the NFL owners and the NFLPA has dragged on and is in it's third month of stalled talks.  The freed Burress could be going from lockdown to a lockout.

The Giants aren't the only team showing interest in the rangy wide-receiver.  The New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens have also expressed interest in talking with Burress.

Manning, who threw 25 interceptions and had to deal with injuries to his two top receivers Hakeem Nicks and Steve Smith, thinks the Giants would gladly welcome Burress back to the Meadowlands.  After all, the Giants owner John Mara paid a visit to Burress while he was in stir last year.

"I think the Giants will still look hard into that," said Manning.  "Obviously, he knows our system.  It hasn't changed."

The Giants' system will be a welcome change from the "system" Burress is getting freed from.

Burress caught the winning touchdown pass from Manning in the 17-14 win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.  Later that year, in November 2008, Burress was arrested for accidentally shooting himself in the leg outside a New York City nightclub with a gun tucked in his waistband.

The talented, but troubled, Burress will be released after serving 20 months of a two-year sentence for a gun possession charge.  He becomes an unrestricted free-agent after he is sprung from prison.

Manning, who has been working out with Giants players at a Hoboken high school, is hopeful for the 34 year-old Burress's return to a normal life.

"Obviously, he's served his time, plus some," said Manning.  "To throw him into the mix would be a good thing.  I'm looking for him to get back into football."

Mike Tyson Not First Athlete Involved In Tattoo Copyright Case

All of the drama being played out the past few weeks regarding a copyright infringement case against  the replicated Mike Tyson tribal tattoo the new film "The Hangover 2" by the tattoo artist has a couple of precedents involving sports stars and their tattoos to base the case on.

In 2005, Rasheed Wallace and Nike were sued by tattoo artist Matthew Reed for featuring Reed's ink work in a commercial.  The artist claimed the Egyptian-style tattoo on the basketball star's right shoulder was his artwork and sued the shoe company for copyright infringement.

"If you are going to make money from it [a tattoo], you should get the artist's permission," Reed claimed.

The case was later settled.

London-based tattoo artist Louis Malloy, and former friend of David Beckham, sued the soccer star for exploiting his needle work in an advertising campaign.  The artist, who inked nine of Beckham's tats, wanted a percentage the ad campaign which featured Beckham's body and his tattoos prominently.  Malloy claimed the artwork was his creation and said copyright royalties were due his way.

The Daily Mirror in London even ran a tabloid headline which quoted Malloy, "I own Beck's Tattoo...and I'll Sue." He's still suing.

Tyson isn't being held responsible by Victor Whitmill--the former Las Vegas tattoo artist who did the tribal markings on the former-boxer's face.  Whitmill has gone before a judge in St. Louis to block Warner Brothers Entertainment from releasing HO2.  It doesn't look like Whitmill's frivolous suit has much merit and he should be thankful for the free publicity he is receiving get back to labeling women with tramp stamps.

The whole episode raises a lot of copyright questions like what if somebody gets a copy of a hanging Andy Warhol painting or the Rolling Stones' iconic "lips and tongue" logo (must be a million of those out there) tattooed on their body, is it stealing or copyright infringement?  Who does own the body art?

In layman's terms, the U.S. Copyright Law: Title 17 says unless there is a written contract otherwise, the person who paid for the tattoo is the owner of said tattoo.

So expect HO2 to be in theaters this weekend and Beckham to continue his quest to cover his body with more tats than Michael Scofield (his hero), the tattooed character from the cancelled TV series "Prison Break."

Polee To Leave St. John's; 2011-12 Team Has No Returning Starters

The youngest men's basketball team in St. John's University's history just got a little more youthful after sophomore forward Dwayne Polee II, the only returning starter from last year's NCAA Tournament team, decided to return to Los Angeles to be closer to his family.

This is the first stumbling block for Steve Lavin's Red Storm after a wild ride into the NCAA's and  completing the most highly-touted incoming class in the school's history.  It also takes away the team's most experienced player.

Family health issues are the reason for Polee's proposed transfer and apparently involve his mother.   Polee released a statement which read," Right now I feel it is best to be close to my family and help us get through a health issue."

 Polee, the 2010 Los Angeles High School Player of the Year, did not specify the illness or the seriousness of it.

No one could be more understanding about family illnesses than Lavin.  His father battled prostate cancer two decades ago and the head coach himself is currently going through a radical treatment to beat the same disease Lavin himself was diagnosed with at the beginning of last season.  He withheld his illness from the public until the season was over.

"Dwayne is an outstanding individual with a bright future," said Lavin.  "He has been a valued member of our basketball family.  He leaves St. John's University in good standing and we wish him well."

The loss of Polee, who started 27 0f 33 games last season,  leaves St. John's with one returning player, reserve-guard Malik Stith, and a lot of heralded, but green, college freshmen.

Lavin has his work cut out for 2011-12.  He brings in a nine-man recruiting class which is the #2 rated group by Rivals.com.  The head coach was counting on Polee to be the veteran leader and guiding force to one of the youngest men's NCAA basketball squads in over 100 years.  The transition of going from an experienced Big East team to a group of highly anticipated newbies just got harder without the stability of a Polee on the court.

The 6-foot-7 Polee could play next season if the NCAA regards his situation a hardship transfer.  If Polee doesn't sit out next year, he could possibly be going to San Diego State, UCLA or UC-Santa Barbara.  Polee originally planned on attending USC before their head coach Tim Floyd was replaced.

Judgment Day 2011; Athletes Who Will Be Left Behind

The End is Near.  No, it's not a proclamation by either the NFL regarding the lockout or the GM of the Phoenix Coyotes on the hockey team's future.   It's the Day of Reckoning for Mankind, so say the lunatic members of a doomsday group who predict the world will cease to exist after the earth is rattled by series of earthquakes and tidal waves tomorrow between 5 and 6 p.m. 

New York City has been plastered with ads warning if the upcoming Apocalypse on Saturday July 21 and how God will only spare those who are pure of heart.

So people, you don't have to fret over overdue library books or the vig to your loan shark.  Go ahead, make that nasty, drunken text to your ex because, after tomorrow, it won't matter.   It'll all be over soon.

This presumed "Rapture" will spare the souls of the pure by whisking them into heaven while the rest of mankind will be left to face their doom on the crumbling earth.  Professional athletes--however adored on earth--are not an exception and some won't be making that trip up to eternal happiness.

I believe the world must be coming to an end because how can you explain Jason Giambi jacking three home-runs the other night.  Who even knew he was still around?

And what about the Cleveland Indians?  Best team in the majors?  Come on. We're talking about Cleveland here.  That's enough evidence for me.

Tomorrow's Doomsday is just more bad luck for Cleveland all around.  The Cavaliers finally get two top-four draft picks to make up for the left-at-the alter move by LeBron James and BOOM!   No more Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or Dawg Pound.  It's over.  If it makes Cavs fans feel any better, James will be one of the fateful ones slated to be left behind--with no championships.

The Apocalypse will bring some good things.  We won't have to wring our hands about the NFL owners and the NFLPA hugging it out.  They're all on God's naughty list anyway.



And no one will have to care which team ends up on HBO's "Hard Knocks" this summer.  It's a moot point now.  Sorry Detroit Lions, you almost had your day in the sun and games on Monday nights.

Jim Tressel, I wouldn't worry about that whole deal about stipends for college players anymore.  You have bigger sweaters to fill.  Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you God is a Michigan fan.  Know what's worse than an NCAA investigation?  A Grim Reaper named Bo.

There are too many celebrities who won't be spared by the Almighty.  Arnold Schwarzenegger's ticket to heaven has already expired and don't count on any Kardashians taking the V.I.P. elevator up--or members of any reality series for that matter.  If Ahhnold had only waited a few more days before blabbing about his love child.

Tim Tebow won't have to worry.  He's a lock to be Raptured by God.

Lawrence Taylor, now that's another story.  Sorry LT, you'll be joining Jay Cutler, Ben Roethlisberger and Brett Favre.  There's no room in heaven for wusses or horn dogs.  Did I mention that O.J. will be dodging rocks and waves after hitting the prison chow hall tomorrow night?

Tiger Woods didn't only drop from one big list this week.  The almighty doesn't look down too kindly on bratty golfers or philanderers.  I'm not sure in what order.

Also deserving to be left behind are the "Green Men," team mascots and any prima-donna wide receivers.  Just lump them in one annoying group and let them fend for themselves.

This just in--Lance Armstrong, things aren't looking too good for you right at this moment.  I would get out my mountain bike, it's going to be rough riding tomorrow night.  Wait.  No world Saturday means no "60 Minutes" Sunday.  You're in the clear.  Lucky you.

Jorge Posada will be spared, but the inside dirt from upstairs is that he will be batting ninth.  The Almighty is one manager you don't want to bail on and he (Yup, he's a he) makes George Steinbrenner look like a kitten or a Mets GM.

There is hope for the fallen to be sucked up into the heavenly skies tomorrow.  Michael Vick and Plaxico Burress have paid their debt to society and are deserving of second chances.  And pigeon-loving Mike Tyson will be spared--if only for his cameos in "The Hangover" franchises.  God likes raunchy buddy-movies.

I am taking all this so-called End-of-the-World talk seriously because I have proof that, on Saturday, the earth will crumble and burn.  I know, because I got a sure thing on a horse for tomorrow's 6:20 p.m. start of The Preakness.  Too bad the world ends twenty minutes earlier.  Just my luck.

Dinner at the Chef's Table with Playboy and Tracy McGregor!

Last week I had the wonderful opportunity to be a guest at the chef's table at Zorgvliet Wine Estate, hosted by Playboy cover girl, Tracy McGregor! The hand-picked guests included the likes of Guess model and Peroni girl, Landi Swanepoel; another Playboy hopeful, Cyndy Stroebel; journalist from the Sondag newspaper, Riaan Bam; Deidre, Karen and Sean, who all work at Playboy SA, and many more!

Upon entering the cellar at Zorgvliet, I walked towards a long, elegantly decorated, table and it just took my breath away. All I could get out was 'wow'. The chefs prepared an absolutely exquisite 5-course meal, with different wines to compliment each meal, which was out of this world. It was such an honour to have a seat next to Tracy, because we spoke a lot and she even shared advice and tips on modelling and the tough industry. Great company, hot girls, great food, great wine... it all just contributed to the night's huge success!

This was the menu for the night:

Tuna Tartare in a Citrus dressing with Parsley, finished with litchi sorbet
Wine: Zorgvliet Sauvignon Blanc 2010

Scallop Ravioli and Butter Poached Crayfish served in a Corn Veloute with Coconut and Lemongrass foam
Wine: Zorgvliet white 2008

Fricassée of Lamb Sweetbreads, Wildfield mushrooms and truffle oil
Wine: Zorgvliet Silver Myn - Pinot Noir 2009

Kudu Wellingtong served on a vanilla and parsnip puree with Wilted Watercress and Clove Jus
Wine: Zorgvliet Shiraz 2004

Spiced Dark Chocolate Mousse with Cassis and Berry Sorbet
Wine: Zorgvliet Pinotage 2005

In between courses, we chatted, enjoyed wine or cucumber water whilst making small talk or enjoying the occasional smoke-break. I am such a fan of the models, Tracy and Landi. Even though they have achieved so much in their careers, they are such awesome, modest, sweet girls. My inspiration. Before I get too carried away, take a look at the pictures instead. This tells the story after all.

I took my cousin along as my date.

Fellow Playboy casting girl, Cyndy Stroebel, and I

Thank you for signing our (or is it your) magazines, Tracy!

Thank you to everyone at Playboy for inviting me to this coveted event! Cheers to yet another successful night.

J

It's Friday and I...

... hate photo-bombers! Seriously. Who is that guy?

... should hear the outcome from Playboy SA soon!

... had some errors with Blogger, but I'm back online and will still blog about the Playboy dinner at Zorgvliet! Rather late than never!

... am so in love with Lady Gaga's new song, Judas.

... was a judge last night at a local high school for their annual pageant! It was so much fun, but really hard to choose just one! I use to take part in that exact competition back in the day! Memories. Gotta love it.

... feel like a change. So I'm gonna start small by putting highlights in my hair.

... have started a Friday tradition: herbal tea and a salad at Java in Stellenbosch with my cousin. Stellenbosch is my happy place.

... want you to enter the NoMU poster competition! Head to the Engen on Orange, look out for the NoMU poster, do a funky pose next to it (be creative), take a photo and mail it to entries@nomu.co.za. And voila, Bob's your uncle. ONE person can win some serious prizes. I'm talking R40 000 in prizes. You have 11 days left to enter! Do it. Do it for the pin-up girls and guy who can't enter this awesome competition!

... have been asked to pose for Breast Cancer Awareness again, but this time I'm involving other women too to do a group photo. The message being carried across is 'women supporting each other'.

... have postponed my Johannesburg trip, but I will visit real soon. Promise.

... am back at gym in full swing, doing loads of cardio, weights, stretching, sauna- and yoga sessions! Let's hope the health binge lasts.

... find that if I browse through pictures of hot models, it motivates me to get in shape and it keeps me focussed with my eye set on the prize. Try it.

... am off to indulge in my newest tradition.

Happy Friday folks!

St. John's To Face Kentucky in Big East/SEC Challenge

Two of the winning est college basketball programs will hook-up next season when St. John's faces Kentucky in the Big East/SEC Challenge.  The game will be played at Rupp Arena in early December.

The Big East/SEC Challenge, which was expanded last year, will pit the Red Storm-- with the nation's #2 rated recruiting class--against a tournament-tested Wildcats squad which lost 56-55 to Connecticut in the 2011 Final Four semi-finals.

Both schools have two of the most storied programs in college basketball history.  Kentucky is the all-time NCAA men's basketball wins leader with 2052 victories and a .760 winning percentage, while St. John's is #7 on the list with 1724 wins and a .658 percentage.

Next season, St. John's will field it's youngest team in 104 years and one of the youngest in NCAA history.  Nine freshmen will be on the roster of the 2011-12 team after four senior starters from last year's team completed their eligibility.

Last year, the senior-heavy Johnnies compiled a 21-12 record and made the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2002. 

Head coach Steve Lavin, who is battling prostate cancer, hasn't let the disease hinder his piling up of top players.  Yesterday it was announced that Arizona guard Lamont "MoMo" Jones will transfer to St. John's and could be eligible to play next season under NCAA hardship rules.

MoMo, the  Harlem product, will join the rest of the highly-touted Red Storm class including God's Gift Achiuwa, Sir' Dominic Pointer and Nurideen Lindsay--and all will be potential nominees for the 2012 All-Name team.

Kentucky will be without Brandon Knight, their star guard, who opted for the NBA.  The Wildcats will be led by Queens, NY guard Doran Lamb and a squad of experienced players.

Lavin vs. John Calipari, call it the Big East/SEC Hair Gel Challenge.

Right Place & Best Cure For Yankee Blues: Camden Yards & Boog's BBQ

The New York Yankees took the first step to overcoming a tumultuous week by defeating the Tampa Bay Rays last night, 6-2.  Now the New York Grandersons take a two-day jaunt to their home-away-from-home--Oriole Park at Camden Yards. 

The remedy to any Yankees slump seems to be a series against the Baltimore Orioles.  It's take two and call me on Friday.

The confines of the Baltimore stadium seem to be as inviting to the Yankees and their fans as one of those Boog Powell pulled BBQ sandwiches.



When the Yankees visit the Yard, you can usually spot more pinstripes than orange and black birds in the stands.  If anything can help the Yankees get on a roll and win back-to-back games after a six-loss skid, it's the sight of the fragrant BBQ smoke wafting in front of the  Baltimore & Ohio Warehouse in right field.

The Yankees are in a lot of trouble.  Issues with Core Four members Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada in the clubhouse and front office, an aging starting rotation, a fragile bullpen and soft hitting.  Not to mention Hal Steinbrenner lurking in his luxury box last night.  Manager Joe Girardi is getting to know how Billy Martin felt during his five terms as manager under George's constant glare.

Besides Curtis Granderson (.270, 14 HR's, 31 RBI's) having an All-Star caliber start, most of the other Yankees make Abe Vigoda like spry.

A.J Burnett has reverted back to his bi-polar swings on the mound and the $30 million set-up man, Rafael Soriano, was just put on the 15-day DL.

There were a lot of high-fives going around after Alex Rodriguez busted out of his weeks-long slump by going yard twice last night.  Maybe his hip is okay.  There were even banner headlines in the tabloids after the DH Posada raised his average to a whopping .179 after getting two hits in the #7 spot.  I guess he showed Girardi who is boss.

One other bright spot is Brett Gardner who went 3-for-4 last night and is batting .397 over his last 22 games. 

The Yankees are 4-0 against the O's this season and will roll out Bartolo Colon (2-2,3.74) to battle the Oriole's Zach Britton (5-2, 2.42).  It won't be easy for Colon, who has a lifetime 10-7, 3.50 record against Baltimore, because  Britton is having the kind of season any of the Yankees starters could only wish for.

Let's see if Girardi has forgiven Posada for pulling out on Saturday night.  If he lets Posada (0-for-24 against lefties) start against the southpaw Britton, I'd say the manager is showing a lot of love.  Don't count on it.

The Yankees pulled out all the stops to beat the Rays last night.  They had Mariano Rivera come out in the ninth to protect a four-run lead.  That's how much Girardi thought his team needed a victory.

"We needed to win that game," said Girardi.  "I wouldn't say it was a must-win, but it was as close to a must-win is in May."

"Planking." The Stupidest "Sport" Since Pole-Sitting Claims Life

The latest craze among young people blazing across the Internet is called "planking", where a person is photographed lying face down, stiff as a board and in a precarious place.  The "sport" now has it's first known casualty.  A 20 -year-old man fell from a seven-story balcony after trying to balance himself across a two-inch railing the other morning.

The worldwide sensation of planking has thousands of participants and Facebook pages with 100,000 followers.  YouTube is being flooded with images of rigid and motionless teens and twenty-somethings who then hurry home to spend hours in front of their computers sitting and staring at photos of other people lying down doing nothing.

The dead man was identified as Acton Beale, who was pronounced dead outside his Brisbane, Australia apartment complex at 4:30 a.m..  He was allegedly being filmed by a friend when he fell to his senseless death.

The "sport" of planking has become a dangerous, and now deadly, craze among young thrill seekers.  It involves nothing except a camera, a lot of time on your hands and an even more bored friend to record the action--or inaction.



It may even replace cup-stacking as the stupidest "sport" in the world.  The "sport" of putting cups on top of each other has already been broadcast on ESPN.  Could planking be next?

At least the sport of parkour has some street-cred and athleticism to it.  There's not a lot of people who have the skills to vault, jump and scale walls fences like parkour athletes do.  Young criminals in a prison-break come to mind.

Planking is also known as "playing dead" and "the lying down game."  If those descriptions don't get your adrenaline rushing, they will at least tell you how much physical exertion is usually involved.

The sport got it's start in Japan and is the fastest-growing activity in Australia, the land that brought us poisonous toads and Vegemite sandwiches.  There is even a Brisbane Planking Association who publicized this seemingly obvious message after Beale's plunge: "Don't Drink and Plank."

Call it a sport or today's fad, either way, the rules to planking are quite simple.  First, you must lie face down, expressionless, with your arms at your sides.  You must remain as stiff as a board.  Like a plank--hence, the planking name.  You can do this anywhere you can be recorded or photographed.  Got your shot?  You're done planking.

Where you plank can be as mundane and safe as a meadow field or a cushioned seat in a McDonald's booth.  Some take it to another level and plank on poles, park statues or span from from one object to another with their chest and toes as anchors. 

The variations of planking can sometimes be quite original and artistic.  There are "boat-planks," "double (two people) planks" and "multiple-planks."  That's a gang of plankers doing what they do best --lying motionless together side-by-side.

A man was arrested for doing a "police-car plank," after the cop didn't take kindly to the planker planking on his vehicle while he was sitting inside.  Most plankers seem to lack common sense.

This leads people to push the limits and become the extreme plankers by taking bigger risks.  They plank railroad tracks, sharp objects, electrical wires and forbidden locations.  The Taj Mahal has even been planked.  Sadly, Beale was one of these daredevils.

Police and politicians believed it was only a matter of time before a person killed them self by trying to out-do another planker's stunt. In Japan and Australia, officials have posted signs warning people of the dangers of planking and spots where they could get hurt doing the deed.

I haven't seen cup-stacking on ESPN in a while so, hopefully that sport has finally sailed.  But it looks like planking isn't going anywhere soon.  Get ready to see the see it showcased on the X-Games.

The next time you see a jobless, smart-ass hipster lying like a stiff corpse face down blocking the sidewalk, across a park bench or on a subway track, don't shake your head and call him a slacker--he might be the next modern-day sports star.

Posada Should Have Gotten Bronx Cheer Not Standing O

It only took one day for New York fans to forgive Yankees designated hitter Jorge Posada for abruptly yanking himself from the line-up one hour before a critical game against the Boston Red Sox.  The slumping Posada got a standing ovation from most fans when he pinch-hit for Andruw Jones in the eighth-inning of last night's 7-5 loss to their division rivals.

Neither Posada or the Yankees deserve any sort of applause after dropping their fifth straight game and nine of their last 12.

True blue Yankee fans will claim that the one-time starting catcher had shown remorse for his temper tantrum and earned the right to be upset after being demoted to batting in the ninth spot by manager Joe Girardi.  A spot where he hasn't hit in 12 years.

Truth is, Posada has been moping since platooning with Francisco Cervelli last year and was batting a measly .165 when Girardi penciled the prideful DH in at the # 9 spot.

Besides Posada's lack of production, it is his lack of clubhouse instinct.  After 17 years in the big leagues, you would think Posada would have figured out that something was in the wind.  A player with less of a history with the Yankees would have been benched weeks ago.  He was hanging on by tenure and World Series rings.  The statistics don't lie, so why was it such a surprise?



The anemic batting average aside, Posada hasn't hit a leftie in his last 24 at-bats.  His six home-runs  came mostly during a hot streak early in the season when it looked like he might realistically bash 40 homers this season.

Posada has always been a notorious fast starter who slows down in the stretch.  What else could Girardi do?  Posada had 38 games to prove his worth at DH and produced diddly.  It seems like ages ago since the former-catcher was an All-Star at that position and it is sad to see him lose control--especially during a crucial series and losing streak.

Derek Jeter went to bat for his long-time friend last night, and rightfully so.  They've shared a lot over the past 16 years.  Even so, Jeter sounded vague when it came to details about the spat with Girardi without rocking the boat.  Typical Jeter.

"But my understanding is he [Posada] went, told the manager he needed a day, and if that's the case, I don't see anything wrong with that," said The Captain.

The other remaining member of the Core Four, Mariano Rivera was just as diplomatic after he was asked if Posada should have apologized.  "I don't know," said the closer.  "That's a decision he has to make."

The Yankees are putting Posada's issue on the back burner and spinning a nonchalant slant on the story.  He will not be disciplined.  The Yankees have more pressing things to concern themselves with.

Age has reared it's ugly head in more than Posada's form.  Jeter and Alex Rodriguez are also on the back-end of 30--and showing it.  The whole team has creaking joints holding it together.

The three-game sweep by Boston has put the talented Red Sox back into the thick of the AL East race and the Yankees now face the younger, division-leading Tampa Bay Rays for three games.

Next weekend's series against cross-town rivals the Mets once looked like a minor distraction.  Now, where these games were once just for New York bragging rights, they might be orange and blue nails in the Yankees' coffin.

The 39 year-old Posada has earned the right to discuss his position with his manager but his timing was awful.  He is not in any way, shape or form to argue with facts.  And the fact is Posada is a burden to the team right now.  An apology is not enough.

"I let some people down," Posada confessed. "All the frustration just came out."

It is sad to see a once-great warrior try to battle his demise.  It was a shame to see the injury-plagued Ken Griffey Jr. go through the same motions in his final years.  Or any other sports star.  Only an athlete knows that frustration and, as with a player of Posada's stature, it could be unfathomable.

Girardi hasn't revealed how long Posada (with 30 strikeouts in 109 at-bats) would sit while he figures out what to do with his $13 million lame duck.

"Yeah, he's gotten off to a real slow start," said Girardi.  "But I don't think that's how this chapter has to end this year for him."

If Posada is a borderline Hall of Fame candidate, I hope voters remember the 15 great years behind and at the plate, not the foot-stamping behavior of a player having a "bad day."

Posada Pulls Himself From Line-Up Before Crucial Yankees/Red Sox Game

In a move to shakeup the New York Yankees line-up, Manager Joe Girardi penciled  his slumping designated hitter, Jorge Posada, into the ninth spot of the batting order before tonight's game against their division rivals the Boston Red Sox.  Posada, the one-time starting catcher regulated to a DH position this season, apparently disagreed with the demotion and pulled himself from the line-up before Saturday's nationally-televised game.

According to Fox Sports, the proud Posada met with Girardi an hour before the game and came out saying he wouldn't play.  No one knows what was said in the meeting.

Before the two met,  Girardi explained why he was juggling the line-up and said, "It's been a struggle this year, we're trying to get things going."

During the past three losses, the Yankees have left 37 runners on base.

There was speculation that the 38 year-old Posada would not accept batting ninth and that there was even talk of retirement.  Chances are Posada, one of the Yankees original Core Four players, wouldn't walk away from the remainder of his $13 million contract.

This weekend's series against the Sox is an important barometer of where the Yankees are headed.  The team has lost three straight and dropped out of first place in the AL East.  They in the midst of a grueling schedule where they play 32 games in 33 days.  Discord in the clubhouse could make things worse.

Posada has been slumping badly.  He has an anemic batting average of .165 as the DH and hasn't hit a home run in weeks.  Fans have been calling for his head for the last month of play.

Russell Martin has been the Yankees starting catcher all season and hasn't let the team down.  The Yankees also have a streaking prospect, Jesus Montero, on their Triple-A  club in Scranton.  Montero is batting .325 and has 2 home-runs.  He looks ready to jump up to the bigs.

Whether or not Posada is in breach of contract with the Yankees is one thing, but acting like a spoiled brat is another issue.

The next month of the schedule will probably exhaust a lot of Yankees players.  If Posada decides not to play, it might be a blessing in disguise.  It would free up the DH spot and allow older players like Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez and even Martin the luxury of resting while having just DH duties.

Posada, as one of the respected veterans on the Yankees, should conduct himself in a more fitting manner.  He has no one to blame but himself for his poor showing so far this season.

Steve Lavin Announces New Strategy to Beat Cancer at Yankee Stadium

St. John's basketball head coach Steve Lavin, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer last fall and kept it a secret during the Red Storm's surprising run to the NCAA Tournament last season, has found a new approach to beat the Big C without surgery or radiation treatment.

Lavin told reporters attending a "Coaches vs. Cancer" pre-game ceremony at Yankee Stadium last night that the new, less traditional, treatment is called active surveillance and consists of tracking the size and growth of the cancer.

The Red Storm coach might be one of the first public figures to use the radically new technique to battle prostate cancer.



Last night, the 46 year-old Lavin spoke for the first time in public about his treatment options since April, when he first announced that he had the disease.

Lavin said doctors will closely monitor his PSA (prostate specific antigen) levels and Gleason Grading System, which measures the the size of the growth. If both levels remain low, more invasive treatment, like surgery and radiation, can be avoided.

"I just learned about it [the treatment] on Monday," said Lavin. "In addition to the precise monitoring and regular checkups, it's implementing a plan of exercise, healthier eating--lots of broccoli--weight loss."

It's been quite a year as new head coach for St. John's. Lavin, who returned to coaching after a seven year absence, led the Red Storm to it's first NCAA bid in nine years and just finished a filling out top-rated recruiting class for 2011.

Lavin kept his diagnosis of cancer a secret throughout the season after doctors told the coach he could delay his choice of treatment. Lavin called it "an informative and instructive experience."

"The doctors I was working with were confident if I wanted to tackle this in the spring or summer, there wouldn't be any risk or danger to my health," said Lavin.

Lavin, who spoke with urologists in New York and California before meeting with a radiologist on Monday, also contacted his friends Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim and Cincinnati Reds manager Dusty Baker for their input. Both men have already beat cancer themselves. Boeheim was coaching eight days after his surgery.

The coach has noticeably slimmed down since the end of the basketball season and attributes it to walking and yoga.

When asked about his re action to being told he had prostate cancer, Lavin replied, "Initially it's disbelief, then it's curiosity in terms of what's next, now what."

Lavin remains optimistic and is inspired by the fact that his father fought the same battle nearly two decades ago.

"Having a team of great doctors naturally helps, and having a father who had prostate cancer at 61 years old and is now 80 helps somewhat," said Lavin.

Lavin hopes his public profile can throw some light on the misconceptions and significant advancements in cancer treatments. On the field at Yankee Stadium last night, Lavin's message beamed like one stadium's brightest floods overhead.

"This is special on a number of fronts," said Lavin "A group of people that share the passion for fighting the good fight and being the champion of a great cause, which is find a cure for cancer."

Sean Avery Speaks Out For Gay Marriage; Gets Bashed For It

Who knew that New York Rangers hockey-goon and serial dater Sean Avery had such a soft spot for relationships?  The abrasive and controversial NHL winger appeared in an ad this week endorsing same-sex marriage for the Human Rights Campaign's New Yorkers for Marriage Equality drive.  Now Avery is garnering criticism for standing up for the group's message.

Avery might seem like an odd choice to appear in the video, along with former-President Bill Clinton, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and actors Julianne Moore and Sam Waterston,  which advocates gay marriage.

The polarizing Avery--who once interned a summer at Vogue magazine, got suspended for making nasty remarks about his ex-girlfriend actress Elisha Cuthbert and got bum-rushed from Dallas to New York for his dirty play and filthier mouth--has never fit squarely into any mold.  Supporting same-sex marriage in the macho world of professional sports is another twist in his colorful image.

"I treat everyone the way that I expect to be treated, and that includes marriage," said Avery.

It would have been easier for Avery to stump for other popular, cut-and-dry social issues like safe-sex or drug use, but he took a position that even the most ardent Avery fans might not accept.



The tough guy is promoting an issue that no other New York pro-athlete has publicly talked about--never mind openly supported--and Avery is getting roundly applauded by gay and lesbian groups around the country.  But Avery's stand is not coming with out it's detractors.

Avery's view drew a barrage of critical tweets from hockey agent Todd Reynolds.  The vice-president of the Ontario-based Uptown Sports Management company represents about 10 NHL players including Nashville Predators Mike Fisher--husband of singer Carrie Underwood--called Avery's appearance in the ad "wrong."

"I'm very sad to read Sean Avery's misguided support of same-gender marriage, legal or not, it will always be wrong," said Reynolds.  " I believe in voicing your opinion and not being part of the silent majority.  If Sean Avery, or another player, can comment on one side of the discussion, then I'm in hockey 24/7, why can't I comment on it as well?"

Other agents and players were more acceptable of Avery's stance.  

Phoenix Coyotes winger Paul Bissonette tweeted, " I agree with Sean Avery and his comments on same-sex marriage..If 2 people are happy together let them be happy."

Agent Scott Norton told the New York Daily News, "I'm shocked that an agency would come out and have those views publicly, when you're speaking not only for yourself and your employees, but the  people you represent and the sport you represent."

The potty-mouthed Avery might be the last person anyone would consider politically correct, but his support may be louder than a cross-check to the boards.

In the world of professional men's sports, homosexuality is still a forbidden topic.  It is one of the last major barriers waiting to be knocked down.  The F-word hangs like a scarlet letter in every locker room and, even in the heat of a game, the utterance could have dire consequences.  Look at the huge fine levied on Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant for mouthing the word on national TV two weeks ago.

No star-athlete from a major sport has ever come out.  Only a few lesser-knowns have come out after their playing days are over.

Without Avery, this ad would have probably been lost in the glut of public service announcements.  Maybe the most unlikely of spoke persons, a pro hockey player, will give gay-marriage the high-profile it never would have received by going to a new audience who normally care more about skating rinks than wedding rings.

Ron Artest Bringing Comedy Act To New York City

Ron Artest is preparing to take us into his wacky world of weirdness and whimsy by bringing "Ron Artest - The Ultimate Comedy Tour" to New York City this summer.  The Los Angeles Lakers small-forward will host four comedy shows at Caroline's on Broadway on July 15 and 16.

Right after getting swept by the Dallas Mavericks, it seems only natural for Artest, the Queens, NY native and the NBA's reigning class clown, to come home and try his hand at making people laugh with him and not at him.

After all,  his embarrassing play in the second-round playoff was pretty comical.  Taking a cue from that other L.A. funny man Charlie Sheen, the well-traveled basketball star might now want to call his show "Losing."

The 31 year-old Artest could even take the show on the road.  Lord knows he's already made controversial stops with the Bulls, Pacers, Kings and Rockets.  What's another Laugh Factory in Toronto? Detroit would be a blast.  Just imagine the heckling when he reminds Piston fans about the 'Brawl in the Palace.'

The out-spoken former-St. John's star is no stranger to the spotlight or making us laugh--mostly unintentionally.  Here's a sampling of his off-the-backboard humor.

When he joined the Lakers, Artest took '37' for his jersey number as a tribute to Michael Jackson whose "Thriller" album was "#1 on 'Billboard' for 37 weeks."  Cerebral stuff.   Reminds me of Steven Wright.

Then there was the one about thanking his shrink on national TV, right after the Lakers won the NBA Championship last year.  Richard Lewis anyone?

If Artest doesn't tickle your funny bone, he may break it.  Just ask the Mavericks little J.J. Barea how a Ron Artest punchline--I mean clothesline--feels.

With his Queensbridge Projects upbringing, Artest's comedy-stylings might be a little bit more rough around the edges than edgy.  It's an acquired taste.  Like Carrot Top on steroids.

The small forward's comedy goddesses will include local morning radio DJ's and pals according to the New York Daily News.  No porn stars or hookers in this extravaganza--just a laff-riot.   Hey, here's one.  What do the Lakers and a Japanese steak house have in common?  They both have aged Kobe.  Pure gold, Jerry, pure gold.

We can only hope that Artest starts rapping during the show.  Now, that would be really hilarious.

Where's Shaq when you need him?  No, Really.  Where is he?

Playboy SA Official Playmate Launch Party!

This passed weekend I attended the official Playmate launch party, held at Vaudeville, Fez. in Cape Town. The night saw loads of entertainment, such as aerial, fire and dance acts, and some of the best DJ's!What a cool party! Loads of hot people, and a famous face here and there, under the same roof. I met some cool people and even some of my Twitter followers, which was awesome. It wasn't long before I moved into the VIP section. Nothing spectacular up there, just a place to sit and loads of free drinks. Overall the night was a success, even though I expected way more skin! I didn't get to dance much, but I partied with my friends, which is always fun! I spotted Tracy McGregor but I have met her a few times before and have many pictures with her, so I didn't bother making a fuss about her this time. I met Playboy's May cover girl, Tshego Seakgoe, and what a stunning girl she is! She's this tiny little glamour queen and very nice!

If it wasn't for my huge group of friends I bumped into over in VIP, the night would've ended early for me. It's one of those parties where you don't know anyone and you know it's not your scene, but you know you have to be there. The hangover was totally worth it!

Let the photos speak for itself.

One section was made up with banners and a couch, then you could go pose with the bunnies. No idea who they are.

Out of all the Cape Town casting girls, I only spotted Chantal Beck. My competition is tough, but I'm wishing all the girls the best of luck.

Me with one of my best friends, Johlene.

Dressed by Cherry on Top

My cousin and I. She studies Law, so it's essential that I take her out every now and then.

I have this thing for pushing out my ass when I pose. It's gotta stop.

I still had my make-up, done by Michelle Dickman, on from the morning's photo shoot. I just added in some purple and also did a brown and bronze eye make-up for my cousin.

Two really awesome friends of mine. Too much Vodka. My eyes are a dead give away.

Two of my gal pals. Celeste (though, for some unknown reason, I call her 'Natasha' when I've had too much to drink) and Natlie (who is also a regular on my blog). Two very cool mommies.

Pictured here with Jan the Giant, a cage fighter! He's been to the Playboy Mansion 3 times, met everyone and even partied with Hugh Hefner on his birthday. I'm totally jealous.

Forget about I drunk and weird I look. This is Miss May, Tshego. She's such a 'real' girl. No hang-ups.

Renaldo and I.

That's it! Awesome night with an awesome hangover and an awesome mom to deal with it on Mother's Day.

J