what's going on this weekend?

Hey everybody! Here's your weekend lineup. Don't forget about the "Real World" casting call 7 p.m. Saturday at H2O.

FRIDAY

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

• Verse Under Current, Jeff Lynn Band, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• Lowry, Hank Vegas, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Ed Cox CD release and birthday bash, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• Last Episode, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

• Pistoltown, 8 p.m. Daileys, $5. 706-320-3353.

SATURDAY

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Pistoltown, 8 p.m. Daileys, $5. 706-320-3353.

• Wicked Dixie, 7:30 p.m. Ossahatchee Oyster Bar and Grill, free. 706-582-2629.

• Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• Sacred Hollow, The Killing Ground, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Asphalt Valentine, Lollipop Factory, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Adam Hood with Matt Self, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• The Grayhill Conspiracy, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

ex gifts

You compliment your partner's cologne - only to learn it was a gift from his last girlfriend.

Are you mad?

That's the question raised in this advice column, where one reader asks if it's weird that her boyfriend has held onto a book from his ex-girlfriend.

Dealing with remnants of former relationships is always kind of a sticky subject. I don't think anybody is obligated to throw away something just because it's part of a relationship that didn't work out.

Then again, if you've been dating someone for a year and he's still bragging about how wonderful his ex's last Christmas gift was, there might be a problem.

Advice?

'real world' casting call saturday

Still haven't found those 15 minutes of fame?

Head to H2O Saturday, when "The Real World'' has a casting call at 7 p.m. It's free and contestants must be 18-24. Count on an appearance by "Real World" cast member DJ Baya.

H2O is at 6499 Veterans Parkway in Columbus.

Get the full scoop here.

what's going on tonight?

Here's your Thursday night lineup:

• J-Mac, 9 p.m. The Vault, free, 706-653-8277.

• Stereo Monster and friends, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, free. $1 PBR.

• Gary Parmer, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, free. 706-494-1584.

• U.S, 9 p.m. Shanty Shack, free. 706-507-3418.

• Whisky Bent, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, free. 706-322-3460.

• Joan Red, Lynam, Ashes of Soma, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5 (free for military). 706-568-3316.

man i cure

Happy Thursday!

This week's nightlife column is about the lure of the male makeover. You know, that pesky female urge to overhaul your boyfriend's closet and "surprise" him with a new supply of collared shirts.

Yes, that urge can at times be controlling and shallow. But just as often, girls think they're genuinely doing something nice.

I don't think making over your boyfriend is an entirely bad thing. Of course, if you expect physical changes to compensate for emotional shortcomings, you're in trouble.

Thoughts?

gettin' sweaty

You're breathless, covered in sweat and wearing an XL T-shirt from your 10th grade soccer team.

And somebody hits on you.

Hot or not?

Here, Divine Caroline collects a variety of perspectives on using the gym as a meet market.

I give the idea a big "no." For the most part, working out is a solo experience. Even when I'm not wearing my headphones, I'm a certain zone where it's best I'm alone with my fantasies of being a "Baywatch" body double.

And if you are brave enough to hit on me at the gym, at least be physically fit. Once, a guy consistently parked himself at the treadmill next to mine and tried to start a conversation.

I couldn't get past the fact that his workout never moved beyond like a 3.2 intensity.

Gym pickups: Totally phat, or fat chance?

rivertown showdown

Haven't checked out the Rivertown Showdown yet? Get on it. Tonight's your last chance to catch the singer-songwriter competition, held inside The Loft.

Thirteen singer-songwriters vie for a $2,000 prize package in tonight's final round.

The finalists, winners of preliminary rounds that began in January, will perform original songs beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $3.

Tonight's performers include: Jonathan Dorsey, Brent Lindley, Tim Maggart, Jeff Gaither, Dan Davidson, Nadine Coker, John McGee, Joe McClure, Stand Edwards, Griff Parrish, Matt Johnson Band, Becca Rae Green and Gini Wookfolk.

The Loft is at 1032 Broadway in Columbus. Call 706-718-1616.

don't ask

Hope everyone enjoyed Mardi Gras. Alan and I had a great time at the bar crawl downtown, where we spent the majority of our time inside The Roadhouse, where the very talented Becca Rae performed with Trucker Dave.

Based on the number of occupied parking spaces, it seemed like Broadway bars were packed, but no single hot spot had an overflow crowd.

If your Mardi Gras was really successful, maybe you scored a couple phone numbers and a dinner date. And you're probably floating on the bliss of a possible new relationship.

But what if your mate of choice has been married? Or, um, recently ended a relationship with a restraining order?

Those questions bring up the difficult topic of which questions to ask a partner about his or her past. Your Tango recommends these 10 inquiries, but everybody's different.

Tell me: Which questions, if any, do you always ask about a significant other's romantic past? Which ones do you avoid at all costs?

mardi gras parties

Hitting the town tonight? Here's a rundown of local Mardi Gras parties:

-The Shanty Shack, 4475 Warm Springs Road, has party favors and a performance by the Chattanooga-based rockers from Down Stroke. Action starts at 9 p.m.

-Belloo's, 900 Front Ave., has beads and drink specials like Mardi Gras Electric Punch, Fat Tuesday jello shooters and a New Orleans Bloody Mary Martini.

-SoHo Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, has drink specials, party favors and an open mike night.

-Broadway bars host a Fat Tuesday Bar Crawl. One $5 wristband gets you into the majority of downtown Columbus hot spots. Among the offerings:

-Flip Flops has free beads and masks. Party starts at 6 p.m.

-The Roadhouse has a performance by Becca Rae and Trucker Dave

-The Loft hosts by Gary Pfaff and the Heartwells

-Daileys rocks out with Spent

Have fun! Get lots of beads!

dirty books

Romance powerhouse Harlequin is celebrates its 60th anniversary by letting you download a free novel. Click here for details.

I think I'll go for the Nascar-themed one, conveniently titled "Speed Dating."

In the spirit of romance novels, I'll leave you with a passage from "One With the Darkness," one of the many erotic page-turners on my desk. It's not a Harlequin, but you get the idea.

He rolled to one side, cradling her. "What is it?" His voice was tender.

"I'll wager no one in this brothel last night had more pleasure than I just did."

He smiled. His eyes were soft. "Did you have pleasure? I only thought about me."

Sigh. So, so true.

(via The Frisky)

free sandwiches!

Quiznos is giving away 1 million free sub sandwiches. Want one? Just click here. After registering, you'll get a coupon via e-mail.

When I last checked, they'd given away 71,002 subs so far.

Mmm. I'm craving a second lunch already.

i'm sorry

Happy Monday! Still not speaking to your significant other after Saturday night's shenanigans?

You might find some resolution in this article, which explains why men can't apologize. In summary:

Men may know they're wrong about something but often loathe saying they're sorry. They think it's enough to explain what happened, or why they did something. But saying sorry makes them feel a bit pathetic. They see it as a weakness, not a strength.

Meh. I say man up and admit you're wrong. Although sometimes an unexpected piece of jewelry speaks volumes...

Ladies, are you past requiring a direct apology from the man in your life? And men, where does saying "I'm sorry" really rank on your hierarchy of fear?

what's going on this weekend?

Hey guys! Two quick highlights: Don't forget DJ Roonie G performs 11 p.m. Friday at H2O. Roonie pairs video with music and it's like nothing you've ever seen in Columbus. Even if you're not into dance music, you'll appreciate the show. Cover is $10.

Also, I just learned Big City Club is hosting a whipped cream and handcuffs party Saturday at 10 p.m. Make of that what you'd like.

Here's the rest of your lineup:

FRIDAY

• Peggy Jenkins and the Bizness, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

• Spent, 8 p.m. Daileys, $5. 706-320-3353.

• Stereomonster, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Big Woody and the Splinters, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Darren Ginn-Gary Parmer Project, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• Whisky Bent, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

SATURDAY

• The Noises 10, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Southbound, 9 p.m. H2O, $5. 706-327-9700.

• Whisky Bent, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

• Assphalt Gypsies, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Groove Stain, DoCo, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Spent, 8 p.m. Daileys, $5. 706-320-3353.

• Java Monkey, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

we-mail

Geeksugar just taught me the meaning of We-Mail: a couple's joint e-mail account. Like, mattandmandy@yahoo.com.

This is something I don't get. I have a couple friends who use a We-Mail as their sole means of electronic communication, and I'm always kind of hesitant to send them personal information. I imagine the husband opening the e-mail and peering into all my boy problems.

I can't imagine which kind of communication would require We-Mail.

Maybe bills? Electronic bank statements?

It still seems kind of pointless to me.

Then again, maybe I'm just jealous because I've never been one-half of a We-Mail address.

Readers, weigh in: When, if ever, is We-Mail necessary?

what's going on tonight?

Here's your Thursday night lineup:

• J-Mac, 9 p.m. The Vault, free, 706-653-8277.

• Greg Barrett, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, free. 706-494-1584.

• Vital Signs with guests, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, free.

• Blacksmithz, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5 (free for military). 706-568-3316.

• Whisky Bent, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, free. 706-322-3460.

• Surgestone, 9 p.m. Shanty Shack, free. 706-507-3418.

take it off!

Need a little nudity this Thursday? Check out this woman's account of her first time at a male strip club.

It's a perfect primer if you're attending the March 6 Chippendales show at H2O. Read more here.

I've been to my share of male strip clubs. I'm sure that revelation completely surprises you.

But usually at those shows, I spend the majority of time laughing. Oh, and trying not to get "It's Raining Men" stuck in my head.

That's why I don't get it when a guy won't let his girlfriend check out an all-male revue.

Female readers, weigh in with all your tales of bow ties and strategically placed socks.

just press delete

Like you needed another force destroying your relationship.

Social networking sites make it easier to mess up your love life, CNN reports. Why? Of course, it's those pesky exes who send you friend requests.

An excerpt:

"It's not enough to have a good marriage. My rule is, if you are married or in a serious relationship, you are not available. Don't contact your lost love. Understand that these are old feelings and that who your lost love was years ago is not who they are today."

Here's one for you, readers:

Should your significant other have say in whether you keep a social networking account?

no offense, but...

He's not that hot. He doesn't tell her he loves her. You know she could do sooo much better.

Do you say something?

Jezebel asks that question here, asking its readers what they'd do if a friend was marrying Mr. Wrong.

I always err on the side of caution while talking to my friends about their relationships. As in, like, generally saying nothing at all.

Of course, there extreme situations -- like domestic abuse -- that require intervention. But in other less extreme cases, you have to be careful. You don't know the relationship's dynamic without being around a couple 24-7.

What's more, what you value as "normal" might be secondary to your friend.

But my biggest issue with confronting a friend about her boyfriend is that she probably won't listen. When it comes to romance, people do whatever they want. No matter how bad the relationship seems on the outside.

Thoughts?

a sackful of fun

Almost every Southerner has a Krystal story, this article asserts.

I saw the headline and wondered, "Hmm. Should I really blog about Krystal?"

The answer, of course, was an unequivocal "yes."

This is a nightlife blog, and Krystal is just as tied to nightlife as Bud Lights and DJ remixes. In fact, many people taste their first Krystal during late-night hours, the article points out.

Been partying? There's nothing better than capping your night off with a couple Krystal Chiks. Certain things just hit your stomach a different way at 3 a.m. Note I said "different," rather than "good."

What's my Krystal story?

Fortunately, after 2.5 years in the South, I have lots of them -- ranging from birthday parties to early morning Scrambler sessions.

But my favorite by far happened this past Christmas morning. Alan and I were en route to Huntsville and I was hungry enough to eat a small child. I was resigned to eating something from a vending machine, since fast-food places usually aren't open Dec. 25.

Then, we saw IT -- a lone Krystal/gas station/liquor store. All in one.

So before even opening my presents, I was devouring four Krystals. And fries. And coffee. I think my mom got pretty offended when I called it my favorite Christmas breakfast EVER.

Still, I couldn't help it. Life doesn't get much better than conquering the open road with the man of the dreams AND the burger of your dreams.

bedposting

Want to make your love life a detailed exercise in statistics?

Consider it done, thanks to Bedpost -- a new Web application that lets you track the frequency of your hookup sessions. You can enter duration, quality and "descriptive tags."

Then, let the thoughtful reflections begin.

(via Lemondrop)

those who can't, teach

Matchmaking is an addiction -- one usually kept by people with the worst success records.

Here, one writer describes why setting up our friends can be so much fun.

I've never tried my hand at matchmaking, but I've been a setup victim -- er, eager and willing participant -- many times. Let's just say that when you go to an all-girls high school, there's only so many ways you can find a date.

Days before my formal dances, my younger brother used to run around his all-boys high school collecting guys' digits for me. His taste wasn't actually that bad, either.

But without a doubt, Georgians are among the most eager matchmakers. I've gone out on many assignments here and had an interviewee try to set me up with a son or grandson. Once, the potential boyfriend even lived in a different state.

I generally dismiss the attempts as nosy, but good-intentioned. Even when I mention my boyfriend and the matchmaker eyes my left hand and says, "I don't see a ring."

Oh well. At least I know it's still raining men.

animal style

Happy Monday!

Hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day...or at least survived it.

I'll kick things off with this guy's claims that cat-owning men are intimate men. Here's an excerpt:

That is, unlike dogs, cats expect us to live with them on their terms -- or at least to make some genuine effort to see the world from their perspective. Making that effort can lead to another sort of intimacy altogether, an intimacy of the mind . . . and thus of the heart.

Which makes me wonder: Who's hotter, cat lovers or dog lovers?

(via YourTango)

Read more about Fido and company in Andrea's pet blog here.

what's going on this weekend?

Check the previous post for Valentine's Day promotions. Here's the rest of your lineup:

FRIDAY

• Fixer, Afterglow Radio, Sex Slaves, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• The Killing Ground, Trap County, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Tim Brantley with Jason Connelly, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

• Seven Zero Sixx, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

SATURDAY

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

• Gary Pfaff, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• The Planet Riders, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Claiborne & Friends, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• Elegant Monsters, Former, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Seven Zero Sixx, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

• Big Woody and the Splinters, 7:30 p.m. Ossahatchee Oyster Bar and Grill, free. 706-582-2629.

valentine's hot spots

Looking for a late-night hot spot where you can cuddle with your valentine or, um, drink away memories of your most recent ex?

Here's a rundown of the Columbus nightclubs hosting Valentine's Day promotions Saturday:

*Belloo's, 900 Front Ave., has a couples special. For $25, you get two martinis, two glasses of champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. Don't forget Saturday is also Little Black Dress night at the hot spot. Wear an LBD and you'll pay no cover, plus get a gift certificate for the bar.

*The Roadhouse, 1047 Broadway, has a special Valentine's Day show from The Planet Riders, an Atlanta-based act. Action starts at 8 p.m. Cover is $5.

*Convinced that love stinks? Hit up the anti-Valentine's Day party at H2O, 6499 Veterans Parkway. Look forward to special shots, prizes and games.

*Finally, my favorite: Big City Club hosts its third annual Vibrating Valentine Ball. I don't exactly know what's gonna happen there, but I'm strangely intrigued by the vibrating valentine contest.

morning breath

This post's title probably made your stomach turn a few cartwheels -- nauseous gyrations induced by the bitter 8-hour-old aftertaste of Boone's Farm and cheap pizza.

But sometimes, morning breath can be kinda cute.

Don't believe me? Ask this Nerve blogger, whose ode to morning breath is rooted in phrases like this:

I love the unhinged passion that comes with a morning makeout. But sometimes while kissing at 9 a.m., I can't help scolding myself for being too drunk to remember to brush my teeth the night before.

"Calm down," I tell myself. "It's probably not that bad."

Then comes the palm test, which in 100 percent of cases reveals that yes, it really is that bad.

Is bad breath alone a dealbreaker?

(via YourTango)

key to my heart

How long do you wait before making it a little easier for your girlfriend to "surprise" you by rearranging your bachelor pad?

I'm taking about the house key exchange.

The NY Times has this piece about the ritual, calling it a relationship milestone. Consider this excerpt:

“Where we live is our private shelter from the world, the place to which we return each day and where we can be our truest selves,” said Ellen Helman, a psychoanalyst specializing in relationship and boundary issues who teaches at the Florida Psychoanalytic Institute in Coral Gables. “Giving the key to your home says, ‘You now have access to my private world.’ ”

But some people say the whole idea of relationship milestones is antiquated.

Weigh in: Is a key ever "just" a key? And is there a certain point in a relationship when it's fair to expect unlimited access to someone's private living space?

(via Jezebel)

what's going on tonight?

Hey party people...the weekend's here. Looking for a romantic prelude to Valentine's Day? Hit up the martini tasting tonight at Belloo's, 900 Front Ave. You'll sample five mini martinis. It's $20 for individuals, $35 for couples. No cover. The action starts around 8 p.m.

Here's the rest of your Thursday lineup:

• J-Mac, 9 p.m. The Vault, free, 706-653-8277.

• Lynam, 9 p.m. Shanty Shack, free. 706-507-3418.

• Whisky Bent, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, free. 706-322-3460.

• Uncrowned, Almost Kings, A Freudian Slip, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5 (free for military). 706-568-3316.

• College night with Vital Signs and guests, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, free.

• Gary Parmer, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, free. 706-494-1584.

love stinks

Valentine's Day is approaching, which means many of you are putting the finishing touches on voodoo dolls of your most recent exes.

Hey, I'm not going to judge.

If you are feeling bitter, though, ditch the pins and needles -- trust me -- and opt for a safer anti-Valentine's alternative. Need help?

Lemondrop referred me to these free e-cards from Heartless Bitches International. The name says it all.

And while you're in Singles Awareness Day mode, check out my column about the personality types you're most likely to see Feb. 14.

Yes, your smitten best friend is on there.

the butterfly effect

Listen up, ladies: I know how you can get your guy to commit to a serious relationship, stop drinking and finally find a direction in life. Ready? Here's what to do:

Break up with him.

Wait, what?

I'm serious. That's the concept addressed in this NY Observer piece about how some guys seem to become better people after a breakup. The writer calls it the Butterfly Effect. Check out this definition:

One day he’s a pot-addled caterpillar barely hanging on to his barista job, begging off brunch because he’s only got $37 in his checking account, spending his nights “playing music” (his band is going to start playing shows again really soon) and eating cheese fries, and then, six months after the breakup, he’s turned into a Monarch...

All I have to say is ouch. At the risk of sounding like an evil person, I generally expect a guy's life to be absolutely miserable after breaking up with me. Or even after I reject him.

The Butterfly Effect may cause some temporary pain, but I still think people are only willing to change so much -- even for the mate of their dreams.

I'd rather suffer temporary heartbreak after witnessing somebody's true colors early on than be misled and have my expectations shattered months later.

(via Jezebel)

more district!

Newsweek has posted another installment of "The District," its Obama-based spoof of MTV's "The City."

Man, I love both of these shows so much.

I can't wait for "The District" episode featuring Michelle Obama staring into the distance and contemplating her relationship while some One Republic song plays in the background.

Come on, you know it's gonna happen.

to gift or not to gift

Do guys deserve Valentine's Day gifts, too?

The general consensus seems to be "yes," although I have many female friends who have never given a boyfriend something on Feb. 14.

That school of thought comes mainly from girls who think it's just THEIR day to be pampered. Some women, however, avoid Valentine's Day gift-giving for another reason:

Guys are hard to shop for.

Here, relationship gurus Em & Lo get guys' thoughts on what they'd like for Valentine's Day. Some of the items are good, although I have a hunch that the guy who recommended couples' cooking classes is desperately seeking brownie points.

But read on...and remember that there's still time to snag something special.

(Side note: I recently blogged about being hesitant to get a guy a spa gift certificate, but this article about U.S. soldiers getting pedicures in Iraq makes me think differently.)

get a room

Attention all voyeurs: The NY Times recently posted this slideshow of couples in bed.

The images are designed to show how couples express intimacy.

The pictures ignite intrigue that's different from what we usually wonder about couples. In most cases, we see a couple and wonder if the way they treat each other in public extends to the bedroom.

With this NY Times gallery, we see couples in the bedroom and wonder how they act in public.

The concept reminds me of a former living situation of mine, when I would hear a couple down the hall moaning at obscene hours of the morning. I spoke maybe about three words to them face-to-face, and I always wondered how their relationship worked beyond 7 a.m. trysts.

Of course, that's a question left up in the air. Unless you're a 75-year-old guy with binoculars.

(via The Frisky)

food & dating

"Picky" is an understatement in the context of this article about Selective Eating Disorder -- a condition that makes people eat only a very narrow range of food. Like, only cheese sandwiches and pizza.

My favorite part is the article's headline: "Food phobias are ruining our relationships."

In an ideal world, every guy I dated would have an extreme affinity for Thai food and Indian curry kits from Trader Joe's. That isn't gonna happen.

Eating habits seem minor, but a willingness to explore different types of food can really enhance a partner's appeal. It suggests a sense of adventure that could extend to other parts of your relationship.

One of the most invigorating quasi-relationships of my life was when I dated a guy who repeatedly opened my eyes to exotic cuisines. Our plates spanned everywhere from Morocco to Japan. It was amazing.

Before I knew it, I was so caught up in his adventurism that I overlooked the fact that as much as he wanted to explore the world, he didn't really want to get to know me.

Feed me all the Thai noodles you'd like.

But when exotic food is the only spice in an otherwise flavorless relationship, I'd rather have pepperoni pizza.

(via YourTango)

chris brown

By now you've probably all heard that hip-hop singer Chris Brown is under investigation for allegedly assaulting a woman many people believe is his girlfriend Rihanna.

(Living in the dark? Get the full scoop here.)

It seems like more people are captivated by this news than the average piece of Hollywood gossip. I'm sure the scant details contribute to that fascination, as does the fact that both of the parties involved aren't even 21 years old.

But more than anything else, I think the Chris Brown story hooks people because it ignites one of those "but I thought they were so happy" reactions.

Even when the media controls our perceptions of a celebrity couple's happiness, there's a genuine sense of shock when we hear news alleging that couple is something other than what we thought.

Regardless of whether the story is true, it highlights an important fact:

You can't judge any relationship -- from Hollywood to Columbus -- by what you seen on the outside.

what's going on this weekend?

Hey weekend partiers! Don't forget about the First Friday Block Party downtown. One cover gets you into the majority of Broadway bars.

Oh, and "Boobs for Babes" is still going on at H2O.

FRIDAY

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, block party cover. 706-653-8277.

• Psyknyne, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Alternate North, Aerias, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, block party cover.

• The Relics, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• 10 Cent Cigar, 7:30 p.m. Ossahatchee Oyster Bar and Grill, free. 706-582-2629.

• Pipers Down, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, block party cover. 706-322-3460.

• Ben Deignan with The Four Kicks, 9 p.m. The Loft, block party cover. 706-596-8141.

• Human Nature, 8 p.m. Daileys, block party cover. 706-320-3353.

SATURDAY

• The Ranch Hands, 9:30 p.m. Del Ranch Bar and Grill, $5. 334-297-9177.

• Dueling pianos, 10 p.m. The Vault, $5. 706-653-8277.

• Avarice, Fervor, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, $5.

• Brave Citizens, Holy Liars, 10 p.m. SoHo Bar & Grill, $5. 706-568-3316.

• Pipers Down, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, $5. 706-322-3460.

• The Relics, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, $5. 706-494-1584.

• Eureka Gold with Poanna, 9 p.m. The Loft, $5. 706-596-8141.

• Human Nature, 8 p.m. Daileys, $5. 706-320-3353.

he's just not that into you

My history with "He's Just Not That Into You" goes back to a co-worker at one of my first jobs who used to read that book like it was gospel. In the end, she still had the worst taste in men -- EVER -- so I can't really cite the book's power to transform lives.

I appreciate what "He's Just Not That Into You" is trying to do. Really. I think there are way too many women who resuscitate a bad relationship way past its expiration date.

Yet at the same time, I think the book -- whose film adaptation opens today -- has a dangerous potential to help women create an ideal that men will never be able to fill.

Even perfect guys mess up sometimes. They get sick. They get angry. They forget to call.

What I think is most dangerous about "He's Just Not That Into You" is that it seems to imply that there is a guy out there who will never mess up.

It's possible the book has made some women set their standards too high -- so much that they'll assume a relationship isn't for them when it merely hits a rough patch.

When in reality, navigating those rough patches is often what being "into" somebody is really all about.

(For more on "He's Just Not That Into You," check out Katie's excellent article here.)

sand in your shorts

Like nature...and booty calls? Then I have the perfect site for you!

Here's an official Outdoor Lovemap, a collection of places suitable for nookie nature walks. Powered by Google, the site give coordinates of locations across the globe.

Just don't expect me to explain who recommended the St. Louis Zoo.

(via TheFrisky)

take that, whitney port

By now, you all know my obsession with "The City," MTV's popular spinoff of "The Hills."

You can imagine how ecstatic I was to find that Newsweek has started a hilarious spoof, "The District," focused on Barack Obama.

I love this so much.

If only Kelly Cutrone would make a cameo...

For more info on Obama, check out the Ledger's political blog here.

what's going on tonight?

Here's your lineup, Thursday partiers:

• J-Mac, 9 p.m. The Vault, free. 706-653-8277.

• Pipers Down, 10 p.m. Scruffy Murphy’s, free. 706-322-3460.

• Another Hero, 9 p.m. Shanty Shack, free. 706-507-3418.

• Gary Parmer, 9 p.m. Belloo’s, free. 706-494-1584.

• College night with Vital Signs and guests, 8 p.m. The Roadhouse, free.

gross

Happy Thursday!

I'll kick things off with a stomach-turning discussion about lovely lady parts. Because, you know, I'm sure that's what everybody wants.

Salon gives us "The great girl gross-out," an essay about how female writers are becoming increasingly graphic in their descriptions of, um, personal body issues.

We're not even talking about erotica. No, the piece is referring to stories about childbirth, and anthologies like "My Little Red Book" -- a female authors' stories about getting their first...er, you can figure out the rest for yourself.

I don't think it's always necessary to divulge this kind of information, but I have a pretty high tolerance for graphic descriptions. But my limits have been tested in recent years, as more and more of my friends have entered motherhood.

Seriously. TMI. If I haven't chosen to bear children yet, I don't need to hear about what's sagging, much less who's coming out of where.

reject & recycle

The economy's bad, but is it bad enough to make you propose with a tainted ring?

Nerve's Scanner blog introduces us to I Do Now I Don't, a site where people sell their engagement rings, wedding bands and wedding dresses from failed marriages.

Many of them are breakups, but some from ties that ended tragically, with a spouse dying.

Now a recycled ring from the site wouldn't be my FIRST choice, but I wouldn't totally hate it, either.

Actually, I can't imagine anything better than a guy just giving me his mom's engagement ring.

You know, assuming she didn't have a history of marrying pedophiles or anything.

meet the pets

Not feeling enough pressure for outside approval of your relationship?

Don't worry -- there's another anxiety-inducing situation to worry about. Thanks to Fido.

That's right, some experts say that in dating, getting a pet's approval has moved right up there with meeting the parents.

No word on whether leg-humping constitutes approval, though.

Naturally, I seek my dog Bailey's advice when I'm choosing men. But I have to remember that she mothered multiple litters of puppies and sold herself on the street for three years before meeting me. She's doesn't exactly embody healthy relationships.

What's more, I think she'd approve of even the biggest jerk if he hooked her up with a chalupa.

For more info on pets, check out Andrea's blog here.

(via YourTango)

cry it out?

You stare at your friend, expecting some profound piece of advice that helps you defeat your inner demons and conquer the world.

Instead, she tells you to have a good cry.

Many women regard the advice as gospel -- almost as therapeutic as the proverbial can of chicken soup. But new research says we might be overestimating tears' cathartic value.

Check out an excerpt from the NY Times:

Having a “good cry” can and usually does allow people to recover some mental balance after a loss. But not always and not for everyone, argues a review article in the current issue of the journal Current Directions in Psychological Science. Placing such high expectation on a tearful breakdown most likely sets some people up for emotional confusion afterward.

Crying as therapy: Emotional necessity, or just plain sad?

faking it

I'm smiling and nodding...asking questions about your time in Iraq...while secretly planning a pretty brutal exit strategy.

Cruel? Maybe.

Or you could just view it as evidence supporting this Indiana University research -- which suggests women fake dating interest better than men.

Cynics might say my gender has perfected the art of feigning attraction to secure free meals and jewelry.

But I also think women are more concerned about hurting someone's feelings, and thus more inclined to overcompensate when they're stuck in a conversation with someone they don't like.

By the way, you look really hot today. Seriously.

I wouldn't fake that kind of compliment.

Would I?

25 random things

It taunts like a childhood bully, daring me disclose my favorite color and some embarrassing story about how I peed my pants in kindergarten.

I'm talking about Facebook's "25 random things."

The note is spreading faster than chlamydia, and I'm resisting the urge to submit.

Here's how it works: You enter 25 random things about yourself, and then "tag" friends you think should do it, too.

At times, reading someone's 25 things can be enlightening, an emoticon-laden portal to a friend's soul.

And there are the no-so-interesting cases:

People who manage to transform the list into "25 random things about my significant other."

People who use the list to disclose the 25 random things that make it seem like they have a life outside "Everybody Loves Raymond" reruns.

And finally, my favorite: People whose 25 random things remind you why you only correspond with them through annual digital chain letters.

Proceed carefully, friends.

happy breakups

As if the usual Monday doom wasn't depressing enough...I'm kicking off the week by blogging about breakups.

No wait, this one's gonna be happy.

Recently, while telling me about breakup, a friend offered the following disclaimer: "But it was a really clean split. They both felt really good about it."

I nodded in agreement while laughing inside. Lines like that mean that either one person is really good at hiding emotions, or the couple is going to keep hooking up casually without the label of "relationship."

But maybe I'm just being cynical. Maybe articles like this one -- instructions on how to be a "kindler, gentler breaker-upper" -- have made splitsville a more pleasant place.

Tell me: If everybody goes home happy, is it really a breakup?