Special Announcement: Live Your Plan A - Tues, Dec 28, 2010

Hi everyone, 
How is your gift shopping going? Have you covered 99% of your family and or friends? Well, I invite you to peruse that list again. Is there a gift to yourself? It is common to think of others for gift giving which is meritorious but ignoring self is often a big miss. So this morning's special announcement will give YOU an opportunity to get going on the path to 'feed self' and to reward all that is good about YOU....LIVE YOUR PLAN A!

We are talking about the America's #1 Career Success Coach, Diane L. Samuels who will be in New Kingston, Jamaica next Tuesday, Dec 28th at Jamaica Promotions Corporation 

A Career Success Coach specialist and Motivational Speaker, Jamaican-born Diane L. Samuels comes to us from New York City where she works with the Rockefeller Foundation. Her Plan A concept is fantastic and will facilitate the unleashing of YOUR career dreams and passion in 2011 and always! Join this fun and engaging workshop where real Plan A life experiences will be shared including one of Jamaica's top television and film producers, Carleene Samuels. Carleene's client listing is extensive and includes Shaggy, Sean Paul, Digicel and Wisynco.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

So what is the special announcement? One lucky person on Christmas Eve (tonight), will be the winner of a 1/2 hour session with Diane. And hey, this gift is valued at US$150*. What's required? Join us at 8p.m and participate in this evening's JMDailyHeroes trivia quiz. It's the season of giving and YOU are worth every chance to unleash your passion...your true dream... and living your Plan A. The fun begins at 8p.m so we look forward to connecting with YOU at http://Facebook.com/JMDailyHeroes Here's the BONUS: The winner of the LiveYourPlanA trivia question will also receive an extra special gift - the newest CD from one of Jamaica's top musicians, Harold Arthur.  *US$150 and not US$350 per flier (typo)

HAROLD ARTHUR
For great a live music band, think Harold Davis and Friends. After many years of performances inclusive of The Moonlighting musical series, we are so happy that Harold Arthur, a master keyboardist, has compiled a self-titled CD that includes a recording of his live performance at Red Bones Jazz and Blues Cafe. The contribution for his CD is J$1,000.00** and makes for a great way to start the day or wind down at the end of a day. It's simply a must have! Order here.

**Did you know 10% of every Harold Arthur CD sold via My Elite Grocer will go towards the COOL scholarship fund for a slain cop's 10 year old son and the fire fighter's homework program for children? Cool huh?
 
SURPRISE FIND

OMG! Island Buzz Magazine featured our CEO, Gale Peart in their coverage of Kingston's 2010 Restaurant Week at The Grog Shoppe Restaurant at Devon House along with international Travel Writers, Bloggers and Journalists! The Group was arranged by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) coupled with contribution from Ingrid Riley of Gee Jam Media (P.R rep for JTB).  Writers and journalists included Jennifer Aranoff of Cravings Magazine (South Florida) who was also interviewed by Island Buzz; Jennifer Beaumont (highly respected writer, film maker and educator from Philadelphia who is Jamaican-born) and Donna M. Owens (a Washington DC Journalist with NPR who has contributed to Essence Magazine [The Stolen Girls, 2004 and Capital Offense, 2009], Oprah's O magazine and more). 

NORMA SHIRLEY

We dined at the Grog Shoppe to pay homage to the 'Julia Child of the Caribbean', Miss Norma Shirley, who  prior to her sudden passing was the restaurant's lead Chef and Food Stylist. Please click here to watch the short video clip done by Island Buzz Magazine and also see the Jamaica Gleaner's Restaurant Week Round up (pictures #6-8)

MANY THANKS

Thanks for joining us this morning. Your support throughout 2010 has been phenomenal. We appreciate and thank YOU. Keep connecting with the 
My Elite Grocer (MEG) team via Twitter, Facebook and of course our Blog. Here's to a wonderful Christmas, Kwanzaa and or Hanukkah celebration!!!

- Megaliciously yours

Top-4 Last Minute Gifts: Under J$1,300.00

Good morning everyone, 

From my last post, I encouraged all to live life NOW and my dear Megalicious readers that's what I have been doing. So sorry for my absence but guess what? Life, especially at Christmas time, has been sweet to rahtid! Today, I would like to share Top-4 last minute gifts under J$1,300.00 that I hope you will find to be unique for everyone on your holiday list. 

1. NUVO: L'Esprit De Paris 

Thanks to a lovely friend I got my first bottle of the world's first sparkling liqueur, NUVO. With 15% alcohol, this pink L'Esprit de Paris is Diageo's newest addition in Jamaica and has been creating 'waves' with its elegant and uniquely-shaped bottle. 

NUVO

Yes my dear Megalicious fans, Red Stripe has gone pink and we love, love it!  NUVO is made with premium French vodka and sparkling white wine, infused with passion fruit nectar.  There are many ways to use this liqueur in cooking, enjoying with dessert (see #2 below) or as a cocktail including a NUVO cosmopolitan. In the interest of time, here's an easy 1-2-3 tip. Serve NUVO chilled in a champagne flute. Welcome your friends to your home this Christmas with a glass of NUVO cocktail. Here's how. Dip the rim of your empty champagne flute in a mixture of passion fruit juice with granulated sugar then refrigerate for 15min. The tartness from the passion fruit will complement the sweet from the sugar, smashingly. Pour NUVO in your rimmed champagne flute and 'tad-dah' you will be seen as the 'Hostest' with the 'mostest.'

It's a perfect gift to joie de vivre this holiday season and beyond.  Please do drink responsibly. Price: J$1,200.00

For delivery w/ gift wrapping up to Midnight on Christmas Eve, place your order here.  

 
2. Jamaican Christmas Cakes (1lb)

1-lb Christmas cake, 2011 calendar and NUVO

During Christmas holidays, Jamaicans typically serve Christmas cake or pudding to everyone who visits their home. The latter (Christmas pudding) is more moist and stemmed from the English influence. Both are very good and will be sure to keep you in good favor among visitors and family alike. By the way, this dessert is made with spices and mixed candied fruit that has been soaked in rum and or wine.  Many persons do so even one-year in advance. Now that's my secret to Jamaicans being really festive. No problem, man :-). The most popular brand of wine for Jamaican Christmas cake is Red Label. There are many recipes but there are cakes and then there are cakes.  Bakers, like MyEliteGrocer.com are confident about their baked Christmas product, and are happy to provide a sample. Just ask.  Price: J$850.00 per lb. For 1-lb Megalicious Christmas cakes, place your orders here

p.s To break away from the proverbial serving of Christmas cake with sorrel, this season we suggest a winning combo with NUVO sparkling liqueur (see #1).

3. Jamaican Playing Cards with Trivia Questions
As a die-hard, kalooki card player I am happy to introduce the first set of Jamaican trivia playing cards ever. This innovative idea comes from none other than Miss Empress Mullings. 

Innovative, Jamaican Playing Cards

Conveniently packaged and ready to go, this gift is only J$750 and man, won't it help to create a life time of memories. Here's the beauty - You can learn and play at the same time and awesome for family gatherings. There's little known fun facts about Jamaican history and culture that is sure to 'blow your mind'. I highly recommend this Megalicious gift. Do follow Empress for the latest on Twitter @JaPlayingCards and check out posts using the hashtag #PreeDis aka #DidYouKnow. For more info, visit JamaicanPlayingCards.com 
  
4. 2011 Calendar: In Honor of our Daily Heroes

Front cover of JMDailyHeroes calendar

This historic, ONE-OF-A-KIND calendar reveals the faces of unsung, JM Daily Heroes: The Firefighters & the Police who protect, serve and reassure and save lives and property in Jamaica, the island nation of world class athletes, entertainers, beauty queens and dynamic citizens of Jamaica.

Each calendar comes with a FREE* yellow, 'Daily Hero' awareness ribbon to honor the daily hero in your life.  Cool huh?  *while stock lasts
 

The 11x 17 calendar features 12-pages of brilliant photography by 3-talented Jamaicans - Fern Elise of LiveStush.com, Shanti Persaud (whose work has been included in the 2010 National Biennial now open at the National Gallery in Kingston) and Stuart Reeves (former teacher turned photographer who interestingly taught the Commissioner of Police).

Reasons to support:

• MAKE A DIFFERENCE. 
• Contribution: J$500 (in JA) and US$9.95 (Outside of Jamaica)
• Part proceeds are in aid of a COOL scholarship fund for a slain cop's 10y.o son PLUS the Fire fighter's Homework program for children
  
• COMING SOON - Calendar distribution locations in S. Florida, New York, Wolverhampton, Toronto and more
• Help to promote positive images of Jamaican daily heroes. Did you know that 95% of good done by the Jamaican Police force and the Fire Brigade go unreported and do not make front page news?
• Indelible keepsake to re-inculcate pride in appearance. Remember the days of cleaning school shoes on a Sunday evening for the week ahead? Make your purchase and check out the calendar month of June 2011.
• Public holidays in Jamaica,U.S.A, Canada and in the U.K are noted
• Must do Jamaican events are highlighted
• Save-the-date for Pre-London 2012 Olympic promotional events by Jamaica in the U.K
• 12 COOL days & 12 chances to win a COOL gift island-wide in 2011
• Sponsors message to the world from Bob Marley Museum, JAMPRO, National Commercial Bank, G. Gibson's Petroleum, Scotiabank and more
• 100% ORGANIC LOVE

Locations for the 'JMDaily Heroes' Calendar: 
Reserve your copy at the following locations.  (Delivery on Dec 30th)


JAMAICA

• Kingston, St. Andrew - CopyCat, Loshusan's Barbican Center
• May Pen, Clarendon - G. Gibson's Petroleum, 4A Morris Blvd (beside the May Pen Ice Factory)
• Island-wide: Jamaica Post
• Island-wide: Cool Oasis gas stations 

U.S.A

• New York: Jampact
• Florida: Global Courier Services
  

CANADA and the U.K



For more information, please join the Facebook fan page for exciting giveaways* from Dolphin Cove, Diageo's Smirnoff Vodka, GoldenKrustBakery, Medusa's Bar & Grill, Jablum Coffee and many more.  Connect also on Twitter @JMDailyHeroes     * while stock lasts

So there you have it ladies and gentlemen our Top-4 last minute Gifts under J$1,300.00. 

EXCITING NEWS

We leave you with exciting news. 

• Jamaica Blog Awards. Our blog has been nominated in the best FOOD BLOG category for the 2010 Jamaica Blog Awards. Please click here to vote for MyEliteGrocer. Everyone is allowed to vote very 24Hrs so please do. Voting ends on Jan 3rd, 2011 and the winner will be announced at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel on Jan 16th, 2011 
• Live Your Plan A: Unleash Your Career Dreams. Also, we have a special announcement about an awesome event, called Live Your Plan A: Unleash Your Career Dreams, that will be held on Tuesday, Dec 28th. Please check in with us tomorrow, Dec 24th starting at 8:30am to learn more about this PRANA Lifestyle and Caribbean Fortress Ltd initiative. This may be the best gift to yourself!

We wish you and yours a Happy Holiday!

- Megaliciously yours

Sharing the Latest

We were absent for much of September and must confess we were overwhelmed by an opportunity of a life-time. After weeks of intense negotiations and prayers MyEliteGrocer (MEG) 'landed' an exciting service partnership with a leading company in the Constant Spring area. This deal will facilitate the distribution channel of a wide variety of MEG products including freshly baked Jamaican goodies, healthy salads and fresh fruit platters (for lunch, events or just because). We promise to reveal more in early November. Suffice it to say we are EXCITED!

 

Anniversary 

Much love to those who reached out to wish us a happy anniversary on Oct 14th. We look forward to serving you for many more years to come.  Join us at Devon House for Market at the Lawn on Oct 31st (10a.m - 5p.m). Prizes will be in store exclusively for our MEG friends on Facebook and Twitter between 10a.m and Noon. Be sure to say I love Meg.

New Hire

We crowd-sourced a job opening and thankfully a new team member, a sparkling lady, will be joining MEG next Wednesday! Just in time for the Christmas season.

Christmas Cakes

Our special blend of fruits for delectable Christmas cakes have been soaked in 'feel-good' Jamaican rum with a dollop of surprise :-). Had a taste and let me tell you this year's cakes will be Megalicious and then some! 

At a price of only J$1,200/US$14 for a 2-lb cake, get ready to place orders for your clients, customers or loved ones, based locally and overseas. Please e-mail: order@myelitegrocer.com NOTE: Cake samples and corporate rates are available.

Upcoming Events:

• 29Oct10: Friday, 4-Square Swarm Party@Chilito's (8p.m - Midnight) 

Conceptualized by @DmitriDawkins and @Persephone101, Jamaica's first Four-Square Party will kick off at Chilito's Restaurant at 94 Hope Road, Kgn 6.

Along with NCB and Fiction Night Club, we have sponsored this cutting-edge event where one lucky four-square user will have the chance to earn Jamaica's first 'swarm' badge. Do join us for this historic occasion. 'Twitterers', the event's hash-tag is #4sqpartyja 

• 31Oct10: Sunday, Devon House - Market at the Lawn  (10a.m - 5p.m)

We will be at Devon House in Kingston. Items on sale include fresh Fruit Kebabs, Fruit Salads and Baked Goodies (Plantain tarts, Coconut Macaroon cookies, Cheesecake and more). 

Get 50% OFF your MEG cake slice between Noon and 3p.m when you  say "MEG-ala-MODE" and show us your Devon House ice-cream receipt*  [* Receipts dated Oct31 only]

 How is that for Megalicious cake a la mode?

Come on over and connect with us in person. 

Warning: MEG is 100% Organic Love

 

Monique 'Mahima' aka Mons

On a more somber note, a very good friend and megalicious client, Mahima, recently passed away. Mahima shared her valiant battle with cancer with many  and via Facebook documented thoughts, mood, photos (before and after chemo treatments) along with her interpretation of poems written by Tagore, Rumi and Gibran, to name a few. With each post her friends and family  were inspired on many levels.  It is largely due to Monique's dynamism that we are all 'cancer positive' and passionately pink. 

 

I was privileged to have spent time with Mahima especially whenever she craved German chocolates and her favorite, marzipan. We spoke about many things - life including fun preparatory school days, ideas for MEG, on being Gemini and of course chocolates.  I cherished then every moment of our cerebral conversations. Of late however I find myself having a deeper understanding of things she and I discussed and an even greater and more special appreciation for 'time'. This was not my first experience with loss but a loss that has gotten underneath my skin, that has kept me awake deep in thought; many a night. Why her? Why so soon? And just plain curious about what made Monique so courageous...so positive?

 

In one full swoop, I stepped back from MEG, from everything and found my way to Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios (a popular tourist attraction that I always wanted to visit - but repeatedly postponed until 'so and so' was in JA) and later Evita's Italian Restaurant (my 2nd visit). What caused this sudden change?

'It' came to me. Because of 'it', every meal I had tasted superbly.  Through these eyes, everything I saw was beautiful. Affected by sunlight or not;  fearful or not, I swam with stingrays and dolphins. Being voluptuous or petite, diet or no diet, ill or well - I got 'it' - we are perfectly painted by the Creator and lessons get revealed when ('it') is 'time'... when we are perfectly 'ready'.  The sooner we stop questioning; removing all the 'whys' ('why so soon', 'why her', 'why me') and embrace ourselves; love despite our imperfections, and as Mahima last shared "sometimes we need to step away from the 'hum and rush'  to hear God's voice," the sooner our  lives will be fulfilled; the sooner we will 'be'.

 

People, sites and sounds (everyday things - right in front of us),  are perfectly wonderful and 'it', 'they','ALL' are meant to be enjoyed. No delays - LIVE NOW. Mahima's Facebook status would often say "Mahima is doing Life" - that my friends is what I intend on doing. Take my hand and come nuh?

 

Am thankful to Mahima for the reminder of life's most important lesson and ask that God give her family strength as they mourn a truly beautiful human being. Love and Light.

 

 

- Megaliciously yours

Delicious, Fashion's Night Out (FNO) and Food Quiz Winners

FASHION's NIGHT OUT

Thanks to the Jamaica Observer, international Fashion's Night Out (FNO), returned to our shores and created a huge buzz across the island. Congrats to the team for the 'hurricane effect' that got the masses to hit the streets to take advantage of discounted fashions at numerous retail shops.

Many of my peers said #FNOJA was a great idea but just bad timing for Jamaicans given as one Facebook friend coined "BTS" (Back to School). Yes dear friends many pockets were weak but the eyes were rich with sight as 'window shopping' was the order of the evening. At least that was our observation at stores we visited. Despite the traffic, my team and I decided to venture to the first store on our list - Nylorac Beauty Bar. One may say make-up has no business with food but stay with us and you'll see the surprise connection.

En route to Nylorac, we stumbled upon breath-taking decor displayed in the common area by TaiFloraLuxe that created a great entrance and vibe to the fun-filled evening that lied ahead.

 

Once we got over the TaiFloraLuxe wow effect, whimsical bubbles greeted us at Nylorac's entrance which completed the FNO ambiance. 

Carolyn Yapp is Miss Jamaica Universe 2009 and owner of Nylorac (it's her name spelt backwards). She has a warm personality but it is her sense of humor that sealed the deal to make MyEliteGrocer (Meg), a loyal customer. Hope you will find these purse-worthy gum packages to be humorous as much as we did.

Soy candles and products made with various food-based scents like sweet, organic coconut oil, Mediterranean fig and pomegranate appealed to Meg's yummy-sensibilities. With a single whiff of Pacificia's Brazilian Mango Grapefruit solid perfume, Meg was mesmerized and immediately thought about the many occasions to wear it. Evening and or everyday wear rang popular. The compact perfume may be deemed pricey however when one considers the ease of travel (with no opportunity for spillage) coupled with its concentrated formula, shoppers will come to find that the cost is justifiable. 

When next stuck in traffic along Barbican Road, pop into Nylorac at Loshusan's Center they'll be sure to have your fix for a calming and relaxing evening alone or with that special someone. By the way testers are on display to help make the best choice.

 Well done on your unique & oustanding product selection, Carolyn. 

The Nylorac Beauty Bar is here to stay. Visit!

FNO came to a close for us at Flirt Boutique. There Meg munched on generous helpings of roasted red pepper hummus with whole wheat cracker and chicken pasta salad with almond and black olives. This was complemented by a glass of Merlot (I forgot to get the name :-() but it was 'delish'! Unsure if we were swayed by the red wine or not but our NCB KeycardBiz made an appearance in support of FNO... Really we simply had to 'land' a flirtatious little, black dress and tidbits (wink).

Hey we even spotted Jamaican mega-entertainer, Sean Paul, rocking his 'mohawk-do' at Flirt. He and his friends certainly made for great FNO vibe. Cheers to making #FNOJA even bigger and better in 2011!

FOOD QUIZ WINNERS

Literally 5-min after posting our food quiz, Dmitri Dawkins correctly answered with NONI and won 1-dz plantain tarts. Here he is receiving his prize.Congrats again Dmitri!

It was the bonus question that proved to be more challenging and as @sweetpersona stated after 3 unsuccessful attempts for the prized coconut macaroon cookies, "this is gonna give me a headache." Shortly after that pronouncement, Tricia, a new visitor to our blog made the right guess. THE ANSWER ladies and gentlemen was SEA ALMOND! Congrats Tricia, please contact us so arrangements can be made to deliver your gift.

Much thanks to everyone who participated in the last Food Quiz. Better luck next time.

MEDUSA'S

This secluded watering hole, recently hosted a bird fest. The bird is prepared in three ways - Honey garlic, escoveitched and deep fried bird. Yum, yum and yum, they are all delicious. Make no mistake the average Joe will not have the special 'bird' touch that Chef Lancelot is known for. Just like rice only special hands can wondrously 'swell' the 'bickle'. So each year, many local game fans especially the Driftwood Gun Club members, visit Medusa to enjoy the bird fare. The Jamaica Gleaner covered last Tuesday's event and in my humble view, did a great job. Click here to check it out or go one better and take friends along for the experience - every Tuesday before the Bird Season ends.

- Megaliciously yours

Springroll, Tweet-Up and Quiz

SPRINGROLL, Asian Fusion
There's a new restaurant on Knutsford Blvd, Kingston's hip strip, called Springroll. Formerly occupied by Wendy's and conveniently located beside, JN Money Shop, the restaurant is nicely decorated and armed with a sweet, secret weapon - the charming, Maitre D', Maple! "Yes, maple as in maple syrup" Gotta love that! :-)

One can now easily dine in a single spot for proverbial Asian food favorites - Chinese, Thai and Japanese. Interestingly while Springroll is an Asian appetizer, on entering the restaurant the golden brown, deep fat fried, wonton-wrapper filled with shredded vegetables and or pork was the furthest thing from my mind. First thought: Deals can and will be sealed here! 2nd - Thai food; 3rd - More Thai :-)

Fried Cane Bar Shrimp and Sweet Potato Tempura (sugarcane wrapped with shrimp and sweet potato) was ordered. As you can see, the presentation was excellent. The combination was interesting with generous amounts of shrimp. By the 2nd bite, I convinced myself that it was a good appetizer. Will order again but hope the type of sugarcane used (young and not local) will be amended.

It was time for the entree - Thai styled chicken with mango slices. Without question it was a 'hit'

Whenever in New Kingston or to awaken the Foodie within, think Springroll. In case you are wondering, they validate parking in the lot opposite the restaurant. This was great to hear and recommended its inclusion on marketing paraphernalia. Springroll is Asian fusion indeed! Visit soon.

TWEET-UP
The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel hosted another TweetUp (with hashtag #JPTweetUp2 and #JPTweetUp) . This time the event was held by Gardens at the Pegasus. Great! since attendees would see how diverse Kingston's premiere hotel is. Perhaps a wedding location for a Tweety couple or birthday celebration :-). Save for immense humidity, JPTweetUp2 was wonderful! Sumptuous fare and an open bar were offered including Jerked pork, Jerked chicken, Escoveitched fish, miniature Bammy and Festival (aka Hush Puppy), Callaloo quiche and my favorite find, Ackee in breadfruit 'boat.' Appetizers - hot wings and fresh fruit were featured along with a large Dessert station. Mini coconut gizzadas were nice gems and fondly remembered from the inaugural TweetUp.

TweetUp: Part 2 had a large turn out with over 300 people (tweeple) who RSVP'd online to the exclusive, social media event within 8-hrs!!! The power of Twitter was highlighted since on a whole, Jamaicans tend to shy away from RSVPing functions including a wedding let alone a Friday evening lyme! LOL. Another creative accomplishment was that  marketing tactic of hinting to persons to "hold on to their receipts issued from the hotel" - Maverick! It created a psychological effect and got the TweetUp buzz going at least 2-weeks before the event. Sales for the 24-Seven Cafe went through the roof since just about all RSVPs made multiple visits to the hotel for lunch, dinner or a drink prior to TweetUp for a chance to win a prize.

Calico Jack (@calicojack) returned as the event's exclusive Rum Punch sponsor. 'Rum punch-on-the-go' is delightful and readily available in nearby supermarkets. From memory many enjoyed Calico Jack but given the heat my guess is water ruled the evening. @ElvaJamaica was a good emcee and deejay, Collin Hines had 'tweeple' in a musical frenzy. Other sponsors got significant attention namely: NCB Wealth (led by the lovely Charmaine Wright @GoCharms), Jamaica National (YAY! Mike) and Palace Amusement (@PalaceMovies). Could a Twitter financial product be on the horizon, I wonder? 

Kudos to Prudence Simpson (@JamaicaPegasus) and the Jamaica Pegasus team for hosting another brilliant and well-organized event but I missed your Jamaican-styled Tweetini.

Photo credit: HiltonCancun.com

Although a tiny oversight, for my friends and I, it represented 'the' Jamaica Pegasus signature drink that helped to solidify our first TweetUp experience (get a glimpse here). I hastily suggest that the Food and Bev. Manager make it a permanent addition to the 24-Seven Cafe menu. Hey, wouldn't YOU be willing to put on 'combat boots' to be the mayor of Jamaica Pegasus (on four square) for a free or heavily discounted Tweetini? Also could Jamaica Pegasus be the first Jamaican hotel to offer a Twitter special (say 10% OFF rack rate; 20% OFF local rate)? Just think this would attract 'tweeple' worldwide, to initiate hotel bookings via Twitter. Am sure they would be in heaven if they were to be greeted with a Tweetini upon arrival. For patrons at the 24-Seven Cafe, if my hospitality experience proves right, once that magnetic blue drink is served, another will be ordered by someone else in the room. "Excuse me I would like to have one of those please" :-) Bet?

A lot of prizes were given away at TweetUp inclusive of a weekend for 2 at SecretsResorts in Mobay; Blackberry smart-phone directly sponsored by Canadian-based Research In Motion Ltd; private movie screening tickets from Palace Amusement and take this opportunity to congratulate all of the winners. Perhaps on the next occasion I will be as lucky as @Persephone101 and @SweetPersona. It is hoped a leading Jamaican-based telecommunications entity will read today's blog for surely with all that talk about 3G, 4G, IPTV and each having their own product launch, one would have thought Claro, Digicel or Lime would have had a presence. Sigh. I say they all need to take their heads out of the sand, and pay keen attention to the core users of social media networking. Join JamaicaPegasus who have stepped outside of traditional media, embraced social media and ARE reaping the benefits [$] of attracting the audience that every telephony entity should be clamoring for. Come on Corporate Jamaica be Tweety!!!

Overall, it was great to see Prudence Simpson [@JamaicaPegasus], Karin Wilson-Edmonds [@YardEdge], Chris Mills [@ChrysalisCeo], Ingrid Riley [@SiliconCaribe] and Malikah Peart [@mallypea]. I finally met in person @GoCharms [Go NCB :-)] and Therese Chambers [@Reesy11] who are both beautiful ladies. Talking with Jamaican iron lady of media, Mrs. Marcia Forbes [@marciaforbes] and @forresterod from our @KingstonBeta meeting was also refreshing. By the way, stay tuned for Mrs. Forbes' book, Youths Online. TweetUp2 was used to aid her research. Hear that telecom giants?

Last but not least, a special 'shout out' to the After-TweetUp posse in the 24-Seven Cafe @Dmitridawkins, @Drmunroe, @Biancawelds, @Persephone101 who along with @GMPegasus, @CBPegasus and I jammed until the wee hours.

Bianca, Allison, Dmitri and I;             Photo: Daniel Munroe

FOOD QUIZ

For today's quiz, we ventured over to San San Beach in Port Antonio, Jamaica

QUIZ: Win freshly made Jamaican plantain tarts if YOU are the 1st to correctly name the item shown here: -

Hint: Ends with an 'i'

BONUS: Get FREE megalicious, coconut macaroon cookies if YOU can tell me the name of this item: -   

Hint: Found at San San Beach, Port Antonio

 The above quiz will close on Tues 7/Sept at 7p.m (EST). 

Winners will be posted at  myelitegrocer.blogspot.com on Wednesday, 8/Sept @ 8p.m (EST)  

May the best person win!

- Megaliciously yours


p.s Dear Readers: I had a super busy week and just got around to posting this blog. So sorry. Also, the special feature on Medusa's Bird Fest will instead be published on Wed. 8/Sept. MyEliteGrocer.com is officially seeking a sparkling, Assistant with a 'can-do' approach and will be working assiduously to have the post filled to ensure blogs are published in a timely manner. Thanks in advance for your patience as MEG works through this 'hiccup'.

And the winner is...

Last week we had a 'Name the Fruit' quiz. The prize was 1-dozen freshly baked, Jamaican plantain tarts. Today, we are happy to announce the winner ....

Mrs. Hinds-Smith, School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Univ. of Technology

She correctly provided the name of the fruit...it's called a Mountain Cherry!

Yes, grown right here in Jamaica. Visit the fruit vendors at Loshusan's Barbican Centre or along South Avenue in Kingston and you will find these little gems. [Note: They will be out of season in the next 2weeks.] Mountain Cherries can be found in the hills of St. Mary. You will be amazed at the types of exotic fruit that are found in JA that often sit idle, unattended or people just do not know what they are. I could not help but to chuckle when a fruit vendor said to me "Miss, mi nuh know ah wah but yessideh mi see people ah buy it so mi decide fi pick and sell." The simple pleasure of food discovery and our colorful story-telling manner coupled with quick-thinking business spirit makes me fall in love with Jamaica over and over again.

Have you spotted a unique fruit in Jamaica recently? Tell us your story and send a picture (if possible) to info@myelitegrocer.com

As a little send-off treat for my friend Stephy who will be attending Tuft's School of Dental Medicine in Boston we settled on Tamarind Restaurant, a new spot offering Indian cuisine in Kingston. Although the food and the service were good it was a chance meeting with fellow Foodies - the ever charming JuicyChef, Jacqui Sinclair and Dale Pilgrim-Wade, HR professional and Blogger of Transition Sunshine, that made our day extra special. From our group chat, we quickly realized that we had a lot in common and will be meeting up again real soon! Upon Dale's suggestion, I attended a live cooking demonstration with Virginia Burke, author of EAT CARIBBEAN and WALKERSWOOD CARIBBEAN KITCHEN. The event was held at Bookland in New Kingston and from pictures below you will see why I was happy I attended. [Thanks Dale!!!]

One may think of Caribbean cooking with various unique and flavorful spices as intimidating but with Virginia, it was made easy. With her warm and personable style, everyone in the audience embraced Virginia's kitchen tales and cooking tips. I found myself reminiscing about my childhood adventures in the kitchen. My thoughts meandered around God-awful kiddie creations that were nevertheless eaten by my parents (bless their hearts & tummies). Fragrant smells of pimento, coconut oil and garlic 'calypso-danced' around Bookland and broke my mini 'day-dreaming' spell just in time to snap pictures and sample Virginia's fare.

First up was escoveitched chicken salad.

Typically Jamaicans make escoveitched fish so this was a welcomed twist. The star of this dish is the sauce that is comprised of vinegar, slivers of carrots, onion rings, whole pimento seeds and sometimes shredded 'cho-cho'.

Pumpkin fritters with love apple sauce soon followed.

Pumpkin for breakfast? Well let me tell you prior to this cooking demo I would not have thought but as it turned out it is one of the most delicious tasting fritter I have ever tried. So a fritter isn't exactly the most good looking thing but consider it a canvas of sorts with which you and your family can make fun shapes adding tomatoes and such for eye-popping color. If love does not shine through then you will certainly be captivated by the aroma of coconut oil when blended with the batter! Once the fritter has turned golden brown let it sit for a bit before adding the love apple sauce.

Both creations were megalicious! I can hardly wait to try recipes at my next social with friends. Purchasing EAT CARIBBEAN is simply a must!

Visit us next week for a review on the newest addition to the New Kingston strip - Springroll, an Asian Fusion restaurant and in celebration of Bird season in Jamaica we will be 'hopping' over to Medusa for Medusa Tuesdays at 96 Hope Rd in Liguanea for exciting bird fare.

- Yours megaliciously

Loving You...Appleton Rum

For centuries, J. Wray & Nephew has produced the world famous, Appleton Rum, and has walked away with coveted medals and awards for its hand-blended 'gold'.

So you can imagine Meg's excitement when the opportunity presented itself to join family friends on the Appleton Estate Rum Tour in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica! You'll see from our video clip below some of the 'awesomeness' found.

Yup, we had a ball! And so will YOU!...Ask for Hugh, a warm and happy Appleton Tour Guide. In fact, we found ALL team members to be very hospitable. So book your ticket and come to Jamaica, man :-)

Here's a bit of new Green info - Appleton has been known to recycle byproducts such as bagasse ('trash' after extracting the juice from sugarcane) along with having their own electricity supply. In 2010, Appleton will be taking one step further to transitioning from a mechanical&manual operation to 'Green Cane Harvesting'! This eco-friendly technique does away with burning the sugar cane fields prior to harvesting that will help to preserve the environment and reduce the company's carbon footprint. Plus, the distillery plant will be enhanced since plants and external doors are often covered in 'black soot' left behind from the burning of sugarcane fields nearby. Appleton Estate and its parent, J. Wray and Nephew, are to be commended and we are sure Jamaica's ECCO Magazine will be pleased.

Overall MEG recommends the Appleton Estate tour as an incentive for staff at companies - locally or abroad, as a family 'staycation', excursion with friends, high-school & university chemistry students or just because. And hey if non-alcohol fans think a trip to the makers of premium liquor would be unappealing, think again...There is much history to learn, demonstrations to see and one would feel satisfied especially for Caribbean 'connectedness'. Besides, you will see beautiful resident peacocks and even a red-headed pheasant.

For an enhanced experience, pre-book for the Appleton tour lunch package and if you are so lucky participate in the Appleton Academy where you can have the chance to meet the Master Blender, Mrs. Joy Spence, under whose guidance you will learn to make your blend of rum! How do you like 'em apples? :-)) For scouts or production people, the Appleton Estate is the perfect location for a movie or commercial. Just don't forget to send a megalicious finder's fee :-))

Also, did you know MEG does customized Ciggiez 'N' Rum packages? Share with us your price point, delivery location and we'll help to make an indelible impression for your client, supplier or special occasion. Place your order at myelitegrocer.com, e-mail info@myelitegrocer.com or give us a call. Guess what? Rum from J. Wray & Nephew especially Appleton Rum Cream, Appleton V/X and 21-year old Appleton are the most requested rum products! Having sampled their newest liqueur called Rumona, we can hardly wait for it to hit the international market as we feel Rumona will be equally popular.

Quick tip: Miniature Appleton Special or Rum Cream liqueur bottles are great for wedding giveaways and guests will fall in love with Jamaican Rum Punch during a cocktail hour.

On another note, we apologize for the absence of last week's blog. Unfortunately we had technical issues and will soon be transferring to Word Press. We'll keep you posted. As a make-up offering, comment below or on today's video blog (on youtube) and have a chance of winning 1-dozen freshly baked authentic Jamaican plantain tarts!

What's required? Simply be the first to correctly name the fruit shown below.

Megalicious hint: It's tastes similar to 'coolie' plum but has 4-seeds :-)

The offer noted above expires at 4p.m, Aug 20th (EST) and is limited to Kingston delivery locations. The winner will be made known on our twitter page at 8p.m (EST) Friday, Aug 20th.