Reflection of Blogging

ROMULUS, Mich. - Now that my week of blogging is over, this gives me the chance to reflect on my experience.

The hardest part was finding things that were worthy of a story. Even though it's suppose to be dedicated to nightlife and promoting clubs and other venues, I wanted to talk about issues. The new smoking ban is something important that people need to know about, so I found it necessary to include a more formal story.

The easiest part was including the pictures for the story. Every picture that I used is either something that I'm in, I took or got permission from the owner. No copyright violations where broken.

If I had to do anything different, I probably would have picked a completely different topic, or choose something that didn't require me having to interview people. I felt rushed and too busy, but the pressure of the deadlines motivated me.

I would also give myself more time and actually put time into thinking about what I would blog about in order to keep my viewers/subscribers interested.

This assignment reminds me of a book that a journalism professor recommended me to read. "Writing to Learn" is a book about writing, and obtaining knowledge during your research. I learned something new with each blog post, rather it was reading all the minuet details of the new smoking ban, or experiencing Fountain Walk on a Tuesday night.

Promoters Take Over

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - In this new day and age, social media and party promoters are working in the best interest of clubs, bars, lounges and many other venues.

Log on to your Facebook, Myspace, or whatever other social website that you are using these days and you will find party flyers flooding your inbox.

It's how college-age kids are making money these days. And different venues, from restaurants to bars to night clubs, are loving the new trend.

Every venue is different, though, in terms of how they are making money from these events. Some owners work out deals with the promoters, such as one party receives all the profit from the bar, and the other from the door. Others split everything 50/50.

Eastern Michigan University graduate and ex-party promoter, Melvin Moon, says that he made large enough profits to live off of very comfortably, thanks to a venue that gave them a re-occuring Friday night slot.

"Papi O's Nightclub (in Ypsilanti) was very successful for almost two years. In our second year of promoting, we grossed about $120,000. Split between three people, I think we did pretty well."

Other unlikely venues, such as downtown Detroit's iconic mansion turned restaurant, The Whitney, as well as lounges in the Fisher Building, have also become popular hot spots for college promoters.

(Flyer created by Jonh Neely)

Bye, Bye Cancer Sticks

CANTON, Mich. - In 14 days, bars and the majority of businesses in Michigan will be kicking the habit, "cold turkey."

At 6 a.m. May 1, Michigan’s Smoke Free Air Law officialy goes into affect. This will prohibiting smoking in workplaces and public areas, such as restaurants, bars, hotels or any other place that serves food or beverages.

Not only does this rule apply to outdoor restaurants, cafe's, ect., it also applies to some casinos and cigar bars.

In December of last year, the govenor officially signed the legislation making the state of Michigan smoke free.

"I think it sucks," said Alexis Stanton, a 23-year-old healthcare worker and smoker of more than 10 years. "My job won't even allow us to smoke outside on the property when this passes, so I'll have to walk all the way to my car."

According to Michigan.gov, the law was passed to "preserve and improve the health, comfort, and environment of the people of the state by limiting exposure to secondhand smoke."

If a citizen breaks this law, he or she is to be reported to a manager or owner of the facility, in which they will be asked to put it out. There are no penalties set for individuals who violate the ban, as they will be posted at a later date.

(Photo- a woman (me) in the car smoking, taken by Sophia Tesfaye)

Night at Fountain Walk

NOVI, Mich. - Tuesday night, Fountain Walk in Novi seemed to be the place to be. With plenty of shops, restaurants and other exciting things to do, there was something for everyone.

Rojo Mexican Bistro is notorious for it's Tuesday night specials that include $1 tacos and a happy hour that keeps its customers happy for three hours. With an option of lobster fajitas or guacomole prepared tableside, Rojo is sure to have something that you like.



Bar Louie is another popular venue amongst the crowd.

"We come here often," 35 year-old LaJosa L. said. "But tonight, it's my birthday so it's a celebration!"



With a menu specializing in "over sized sandwiches and artfully concocted signature cocktails", Bar Louie is the perfect place to wine and dine with friends.

Other entertainment includes Dick's Sporting Good, Lucky Strike, Emagine Movie Theatre, and much more.

Check my Twitter updates for more details of last night!

(Photo 1- Man preparing guacamole table side, taken by Miah / Photo 2 - Appletini cocktail, taken by Miah)