Lifestyle
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Is Searching For His Fastest Fan
Goody’s, the brand known for its fast-acting headache relief, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., the driver known for his speed on and off the NASCAR track, are joining forces for a nationwide search to find Dale Jr.’s fastest fan.
The Goody’s Headache Relief Shot Fastest Fan Challenge kicked off this past week at Martinsville Speedway, where Goody’s and Dale Jr. unveiled a new video to inspire fans to create their own videos depicting their speediest moments. The new video features Dale Jr. speeding through his day, making fast work of everything from solving a Rubik’s cube, to commuting to work, to dressing up for a big night out. It premiered during pre-race ceremonies at the Goody’s Headache Relief Shot 500 and on the national broadcast of the race on ESPN.
Fans can enter the Fastest Fan Challenge by uploading an original video that captures high-speed action to their own profiles on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. To be eligible, each post must include the hashtag #FastestFan. All entries must be posted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on December 1, 2013 to be considered. After five finalists are selected, fans will cast their votes for the winner on the Goody’s Facebook page. For complete rules and information on how to enter the contest, and to watch the Dale Jr. video, visit the Goody’s Headache Relief Shot Facebook page at facebook.com/GoodysHeadacheReliefShot.
Video entries will be judged on their creativity, and of course, speed. The grand prize winner will receive an ultimate NASCAR tailgate weekend hosted by Goody’s and Dale Jr., including: a race weekend RV for him or herself and three friends, travel to and from the Goody’s Headache Relief Shot 500 in Martinsville, Virginia, tickets to the race (including VIP access to the garage and pit areas), $1,000 in spending money, and a personal meeting with Dale Earnhardt Jr.
“Working with the Goody’s team to create the fast day-in-my-life video was a lot of fun,” said Dale Earnhardt Jr. “I know our fans are extremely creative. I am looking forward to seeing their videos and to meeting the Fastest Fan at next year’s Goody’s Headache Relief Shot 500.”
Think you got what it takes? Make a video and send it off for Dale to be the judge!
Nov 2nd
Roots Of Fight Has Your Gear For Movember
Roots Of Fight pays tribute to the rich history and tradition of martial arts from regions around the globe and connects the history and images of iconic fighters like Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee with the contemporary global scale of Mixed Martial Arts.
Roots Of Fight tells an authentic story that reflects a genuine place and time and weaves the true stories of icons from the past with those of the present – paying homage to the roots, regional influence and diversity of each discipline. The “Sweet Science”, “Jun Fan Gung Fu”, Jeet Kun Do along with MuayThai, Russian Sambo and Krav Maga – legends about these fighting systems and others are explored in the Roots Of Fight™ concept.
Roots of Fight just released a new Movember shirt, “The Boston Strongboy“. As we all know now, Movember is a charity that encourages men to grow mustaches in the month of November to raise awareness for prostate & testicular cancer and mental health.
Roots of Fight and Lancaster Ltd are proud to partner with Movember for another year of channel bending where they bring together story, art and apparel. This year’s design is inspired by The Boston Strongboy, the last bareknuckle heavyweight champion. John L Sullivan was a gentlemen who stood for honour and ended up changing the face of boxing for a generation as he ushered in the new era of civility in the violent ballet as they dawned gloves. The many Mo Bros across the land who are a part of Generation Mo will appreciate this interesting bit of history from the sweet science.
Now, let’s go forth and change the face of men’s health. Join their team here.
Nov 1st
Adam Perry Lang Goes to Cascade Hollow To Witness George Dickel Craftsmanship
For chef Adam Perry Lang, serious barbecue requires serious commitment to doing things the right way. To him that means handcrafting to the highest standards – something they’ve been doing at George Dickel since it’s start more than 100 years ago. At the George Dickel distillery in Tullahoma, Tenn., the master distiller carries out each step the old-fashioned way, even procuring pure water from the same spring used by the whisky’s namesake himself back in 1870. In this video, Lang stops in to get a firsthand look at the process as part of his “Serious Barbecue” tour across the nation.
This summer, Lang set out to craft the ultimate barbecue experience, incorporating superior hand-crafted products every step of the way, from forging artisan knives in Wisconsin to throwing a barbecue party in the back lot of the “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” show in Los Angeles.
“Adam Perry Lang is a craftsman, he’s always thinking about doing things the hard way, and he’s about doing things by hand. And that’s what George Dickel is about,” says Doug Kragel, national brand ambassador at George Dickel.
For the perfect mash of corn, barley and rye, George Dickel employs a master distiller who personally oversees the milling, yeasting, fermentation and distillation. That includes taking the extra step of chilling the whisky before it goes into the charcoal mellowing vats for a smoother taste.
Attention to detail, devotion to quality and passion are what American craftsmanship is all about, says Lang. “For me, it’s the essence, and that’s what I’ve captured here, and that’s why I’m so proud to partner up with them.”
In this episode, Adam travels to Cascade Hollow to learn more about how George Dickel hand made their whisky the hard way.
Oct 25th
Reebok Has An Early Halloween Treat With The “Pumpkin” Themed Pump
Reebok is giving out an early treat this year for Halloween. Reebok has the Pump Omni Lite “Pumpkin” for a pre-Halloween release. Looking like a Jack-O-Lantern, the Pump Omni Lite has an orange and black theme to it. These kicks will complement any costume this year.
The iconic sneaker is predominantly decked out in orange with slightly lighter orange shade in the honeycomb paneling and has contrasting black accents throughout. Orange also works the midsole, which sits atop a black rubber outsole. The date is set for these to drop on October 25 at select Reebok retailers for $120.
The Reebok Kamikaze II (pictured below) that glows in the dark will release the same date. The will sell for a retail price of $100. For more info go to Reebok.com
Oct 22nd
Ditch The Cord With PocketPlug
Prong LLC recently brought the PocketPlug to the tech market. It is the world’s first case with an integrated charger. The PocketPlug is designed to provide protection and charging capabilities for the iPhone. Users can abandon their cords and chargers and rely entirely on their PocketPlug.
The PocketPlug is unlike any other device on the market, designed with retractable prongs to double as a case and portable charger. When not in use, the prongs conveniently retract allowing the PocketPlug to transform into a sleek carrying solution with optimal pocket-ability. The durable case is made out of high-grade polycarbonate, protecting the iPhone from drops and scratches.
The prongs easily deploy allowing the case to connect to an outlet for direct charging, without the need for an additional adaptor or cable. PocketPlug has a micro-USB port built in for times when you’re in your car or have a cord handy. From your pocket to the socket, the lightweight PocketPlug provides the only all-in-one protective case and charging solution.
The PocketPlug’s slim and portable design allows for easy storage in a carry-on, backpack, purse, or pocket. The minimalistic case makes the perfect travel companion, eliminating the hassle of digging through your bag in search of a charger. The PocketPlug is also designed to enhance both the smartphone’s speakers and microphone by redirecting sound to the front of the phone for louder and clearer audio.
Available in black or white, the PocketPlug for iPhone 4, 4s and 5 can be purchased at goprong.com for $59.99 to $69.99. Learn more about Prong by visiting goprong.com.
Oct 10th
SMS Audio STREET By 50 ANC
SMS Audio is 50 Cent’s premier audio headphone line. The STREET by 50 Over-Ear Active Noise Control are an innovative set that eliminates unwanted ambient noise. Whether you are on a plane or walking the loud and noisy streets these headphones are legit.
The STREET features what SMS Audio calls active noise cancellation technology (ANC). The set contains awesomely tuned 40mm drivers and soft leather memory foam ear cushion. That pretty much means whatever sound the engineers and producers wanted you to hear in films and in music you will definitely hear.
50 Cent aka Curtis Jackson, who is the CEO of SMS Audio said, “I have spent a long time searching for a great pair of headphones that not only deliver great sound quality, but that also are durable and comfortable enough during my extensive travels. That’s why we created the STREET by 50 Over-Ear ANC Wired headphones with active noise cancellation technology. Not only do they deliver the best in studio mastered sound, but they are also tough enough to withstand extensive traveling while providing a secure and comfortable fit for hours of listening enjoyment.”
With a price tag of $279.95 you get what you pay for not only in sound quality and in durability as well. The STREET ANC has a hard exterior, but the earcups are made of memory foam cushion so you ears won’t get irritated as you wear them. These headphones are very flexible too. They are foldable and also come with a removable cable with 3 click microphone, soft touch cleaning cloth, micro USB charging cable, airplane adaptor and hard shell carrying case for easy transport.
The left arm of the headphones is where all the magic happens so to speak. On that side is the ANC power switch, an LED power indicator, a mini-USB charging port, and a 3.5mm cable input. The battery life for the STREET lasts up to an outstanding 70 hours. To recharge the headphone battery take about two and a half hours. Like all normal charging devices the LED indicator glows blue with ANC engaged, red while charging, and green when the battery is fully charged.
So does the SMS STREET live up to the hype? Well the last time I was on a plane I had a different set of headphones. They were supposed to be noise canceling, but I heard many noises coming in from the outside while I was trying to watch a movie on my iPad. When I put on the STREET ANC recently on the subway all the outside noises were eliminated. When the ANC feature is running you will notice a difference. If you are serious about sound quality and are looking for a great set of headphones, the STREET By 50 ANC is definitely worth a look.
Oct 9th
“The Walking Dead” Inspired Cocktails
The Season 4 premiere of “The Walking Dead” is this Sunday. To celebrate the return of AMC’s hit show here are some apocalyptic-inspired cocktails for you and your friends to enjoy during the show.
While you ponder what lies ahead of Sherriff Rick Grimes and his team of survivors as things looks ominous as they square off against the walkers why not kick back and relax on one of these drinks? You can sip on a “Woodbury’s Harvest” as you watch the group stand their ground at the prison, or mix up a “Black and Buried” or “The Walker” to get a taste for the post-apocalyptic world the survivors are living in.
Maybe one of these drinks were created in Woodbury when they would have one of their festivals. Not sure the prison has any of the ingredients below to make these cocktails, but you do. So while watching this season have a drink for Rick and his crew.
The Walker
Ingredients
1 oz Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum
½ oz Stirrings Espresso Flavored Liqueur
3 Dashes Chocolate Bitters
5 oz Cola
DIRECTIONS: In an ice filled Collins or rocks glass combine all the ingredients and then stir to blend.
Woodbury’s Harvest
Ingredients 
1¼ oz Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum
2½ oz Apple Cider
1/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
DIRECTIONS: Combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into an ice filled Collins glass. Garnish with apple slices.
Black & Buried
Ingredients
1 oz Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum
½ oz Zwack Liqueur
3 Blackberries
4 oz Cola
1 Lemon Wedge
DIRECTIONS: Add blackberries to a cocktail shaker and crush with a spoon. Add Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum, Zwack Liqueur and shake vigorously. Strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice and top with cola. Garnish with a Lemon Wedge.
Oct 8th
HYDRIVE Energy Water Review
I’m not a big energy drink guy. If I need a pick me up, I’ll usually reach for coffee. Typically it’s a cup of Joe to start the day. Espresso can do wonders for a sluggish afternoon. But you get the idea. I’m not really into the Red Bull, Monster and Rockstar-type beverages. If it looks neon and comes in a can, I’ll usually just stay tired or wait for an appropriate coffee opportunity. Don’t get me started on 5-Hour Energy, either. I fully expect some sort of medical backlash to kick in on that stuff. I mean it just seems like a bad situation all around.
So when I received samples of HYDRIVE Energy Water, I just figured I wouldn’t like ‘em too much. The flavors all seemed a bit too bright and the calorie count seemed a bit too low to be effective for my tastes. I’m more of a full calorie guy. I usually keep my distance from low-cal stuff or anything with artificial flavoring.
But one thing I do love is Gatorade. I’ll keep some fruit punch Gatorade stocked in the fridge at all times. Maybe it’s the taste or the consistency or the electrolytes. I don’t know the science behind it, but I love that stuff.
The thing I like the most about HYDRIVE Energy Water is that it’s like Gatorade with a head change. It doesn’t have that synthetic radiator fluid vibe of a Red Bull. It tastes more like a sport drink than an energy drink. And the different flavors provide different types of boosts to your system. Here’s the full list:
- Lemon Line Rush (Active Formula)
- Citrus Blast (Vitamin Formula)
- Black Cherry (Extra Power Formula)
- Blue Raspberry (Extra Power Formula)
- Triple Berry (Antioxidant Formula)
- Kiwi Strawberry (Focus Formula)
- Grape Fusion (Recovery Formula)
Some of the flavors are a bit too sweet for my tastes, but you definitely feel different after you drink one of these things. Maybe it’s because HYDRIVE has 38 percent more caffeine than the leading energy brand. Maybe it’s the lack of sugar spikes or a blend vitamins or all those amino acids and electrolytes, but whatever’s going on in that bottle, HYDRIVE will change your head, one 30 calorie dose at a time.
Oct 7th
Titan Body Wash
For athletes that train hard and push their workouts to the limit there is a body wash for you. It is called Titan Body Wash. Titan is an organic formula that is designed to give you ultimate protection against skin infections. Their proprietary blend acts as an anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal shampoo/body wash to reduce the risk of contracting common skin infections associated with athletics such as ring worm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, staph infections and more.
Whether you compete in MMA, wrestling, hockey, football, train in Cross fit, do yoga or just enjoy going to the gym, Titan Post Battle Products could be perfect for you. For those who have been in a gym at least more than once know that you cannot control how clean your environment is, but you can make sure you are clear of the risk of infection afterwards.
Besides their body wash they also have an equipment spray. The spray is designed to protect athletes from growths occurring on or in their equipment. Titan spray not only reduces the risk of contracting common skin infections from their environment but it also deodorizes. Designed to be used on football, hockey and lacrosse equipment as well as pads and apparatus used in wrestling, MMA, and gymnastics.
There are some pro MMA athletes that use Titan products. Dennis Bermudez and Chris Weidman are fans of Titan’s products. If you look on their site you will see that they are working on a laundry detergent and body wipes.
So if your body wash is not cutting it, you might want to try Titan!
Oct 1st
Lexus Turns Up the Heat in Las Vegas With the F Series
LAS VEGAS- Over the past 24 years Lexus has built their reputation on luxury and dependability. They’re no slouch on the innovation front either, introducing the luxury marketplace to aftermarket customization and leading its class in hybrid technology. They make comfortable, safe, reliable cars. Up until recently they’ve come up short against their competitors in the sports category. Up until they started borrowing elements from their LFA supercar that is.
With the introduction of the Lexus IS F in 2006, the automaker sought to confront that public perception head on. These efforts were on full display in the hot desert wind at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where MANjr joined a few dozen other media outlets for a thrilling track day in all of the 2014 Lexus F series offerings.
Prepare yourselves for some serious alphanumerics here.
We drove and raced the F SPORT models of the IS 350 AWD and RWD, the IS 250, the CT 200h, the GS 350, the LS 460 and we did it with class. Every few turns around the track I’d get out and switch cars. The sweet stench of burning rubber filled the nose while fighter jets from nearby Nellis Air Force Base danced overhead. Truly a Goose, Maverick and Iceman kind of day filled with speed, desert mountain vistas and displays of our military might. We were missing only a hot dog, a slice of apple pie and oh yea, an American car.
By missing of course, I mean not really missing at all. The new Lexus F Series cars roar and screech and slide and glide like any good sports car should. What they do differently than many sports minded sedans is drive away from the track quietly and respectfully, holding you tightly in bolstered seats all while minding the standards of decency and tact we expect from our luxury cars.
They do this primarily with one of my favorite features on any car, the dial they refer to as “Drive Mode Select”. Take one drive around the track… err your neighborhood with the knob turned to “Normal”. Go ahead, we’ll wait.
The car handles fine. Smooth, mellow drive. Nice soft suspension, responsible turning and acceleration. Gentle turns that make your mother in law nod silently as she judges your fitness for fatherhood.
Now switch your IS 350 F Series to S+. Drop that lovely woman off with a responsible party and (safely) roar onto the freeway. Accelerate to speed and find yourself an open road. Feel the oversteer and body roll all but disappear. Feel the RPM’s stay high between gears while the weight of the car shifts seamlessly from front to back as you (safely!!) carve that canyon road.
The car literally changes in the flip of a switch. What Lexus has done with their F Series is recognize that today’s luxury driver is a long way from the smooth boring rides of their forefathers. Our inevitable slide towards practicality is underway but sometimes you just want turn the corner and feel some power and strength in your hands. The IS 350 RWD F Series achieves this middle ground without coming off moderate or average. They’ve made a car that somehow still finds itself compared to the BMW 335i and Cadillac ATS4 . To me, it can go up a class and stand toe to toe with the BMW M3 and the Audi S4.
Ok at this point you’re looking for my Lexus name tag and wondering when I’m going to tell you we can get you in this car today. Well here are some of the cons… The engine is a tad underpowered. A turbo in the high end F Series would be a revelation. Another couple dozen horsepower and a little weight reduction would serve it well in the performance categories it’s striving to dominate.
Also, when discussing the European dominated sports sedan market, the lack of an available manual transmission stands out. At this point, with robust American sales numbers and an over 50% F Series purchase rate, Lexus may not even care too much for the approval of the sometimes snooty European luxury customer. It’d make a great viral campaign, blindfolding BMW and Audi enthusiasts and turning them into fans of the <gasp> Japanese product. On second thought maybe blind test drives aren’t such a great idea. I’ll leave the marketing up to the pros.
End of the day, Lexus hit it’s mark with the 2014 F Series line. The cars have strength and style, they can be driven smoothly or enthusiastically in the flip of a switch. Don’t want to drop all the extra coin but want some of the fun? Add F SPORT components ala carte, at home or at the dealership. They’ll even cover parts (and labor done) under a manufacturer warranty.
Smart.
Here are the numbers you want to know
IS 350 RWD F SPORT
3.5 L V6 engine
306 Horsepower
8 Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters
19/28 MPG
0-60 in 5.6
$43,000 – $61,000
Oct 1st
