Friday, September 10, 2010
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Brail-Inspired Texting - Tactile Texting for the Blind
Although it may be difficult for the blind to see their cell phones, this "Tactile Texting" gadget has helped transform the average device. Using specific grooves within the device, users can text sentences through pattern-recognition technology. Check out the video and get a real feel for what this gadget does.
Monday, August 30, 2010
HUF x PRO-Keds 69er Sneakers
HUF links up with PRO-Keds to produce a couple of new colorways in the brand’s classic 69er. The low tops are offered in both a black/blue/white and blue/white/black colorway, each now available through HUF stores in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
HUF x PRO-Keds 69er Sneakers
Mens BEAMS x Dr. Martens Patent Wing-Tip
BEAMS and Dr. Martens continue their collaborative relationship into the 2010 fall/winter with a simple yet well-thought out patent wingtip. The shoe features a full patent leather upper with a wingtip motif. The upper is of course paired with Dr. Martens’ signature Bouncing Soles outsole. The BEAMS x Dr. Martens Patent Wing-Tip is available now via BEAMS.
Mens Christian Louboutin Rantus Orlato Hi-Top
For the 2010 Fall/Winter season, Christian Louboutin is releasing their Rantus Orlato model in several different types of fabric and patterns. Having already incorporated studs on a different men’s high-top sneaker in the past, the French luxury brand explores a leopard-print upper as one of their design aesthetics for the Rantus Orlato. The sneaker will feature their famous red sole with the company’s signature logo, and will be available for purchase at Christian Louboutin flagship stores and select high-end retailers.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Oh Oh it's MAGIC Fashion Trade Event: AFTERPARTIES
As promised, The Pepper Zoo brings you all of the purely dope MAGIC updates. Here is a list (but not limited to) of MAGIC afterparties that you must attend:
Tuesday August 17:
Paris Hilton hosts at Tryst: Paris Hilton and special guest DJ Jermaine Dupri will celebrate the launch of the socialite’s new spring 2011 shoe collection and her latest fragrance, Tease, inspired by the Hollywood glamour of Marilyn Monroe.
Runway magazine party at Lavo: Nole Marin, fashion director of runway from America's Next Top Model, will host a Runway magazine party at Lavo. Summer cover model Stephanie Pratt makes a guest appearance.
Hudson Jeans party at XS: XS Nightclub will kickoff PROJECT by partnering up with Hudson Jeans and Creative Recreation to host a party featuring renowned mixmasters DJ Spider, Fashen, Jesse Marco, Devin Lucien and MK. Twitter followers can receive complementary entrance by downloading the digital pass.
Dunkxchange at Hard Rock Café: Dunkxchange, considered by some to be the mecca for street fashion, takes place at the Hard Rock Café on the Strip. Vendors like Suite 160, a local boutique with locations in Mandalay Bay and Summerlin, will participate. Dunkxchange will also have giveaways, food and drinks, DJs spinning underground tunes, a live performance and much more. Anyone with a MAGIC Badge will have complimentary access and 20 percent off at the bar.
Playboy Intimates model search: Playboy Intimates is searching for the new face of their 2011 advertising campaign. Celebrity photographer Victor Sanabrais hosts the Las Vegas auditions at the Playboy Club.
Billionaire Mafia hosts at Eve: Local clothing company Billionaire Mafia is hosting guest rappers Rick Ross, Birdman and BG at a MAGIC after party at Eva Longoria’s club at Crystals.
Wednesday August 18:
Primp Clothing party at Mix: Celebrities expected to walk the red carpet include Dancing with the Stars pro Karina Smirnoff, 2008 Playboy “Playmate of the Year” Jayde Nicole, actress and musician Brandi Cyrus, and musician Codi Caraco.
MAGIC afterparty at Eve: Billionaire Mafia is back for round two with a second MAGIC afterparty featuring guest rappers Gucci Mane, Juelz Santana and Lloyd Banks.
Filthy Mouth Clothing hosts at Ghostbar: Filthy Mouth Clothing and Passport Collective host a MAGIC afterparty featuring Stretch Armstrong, JROC, DJ 88 and Dave Fogg.
Thursday August 19:
Bud Light Golden Wheat can unveiling at Rockhouse: The fashion at Rockhouse usually consists of shredded tops and ripped jeans, but the dive bar is taking things to the next level to get into the spirit of MAGIC week by teaming up with Budweiser to unveil the new Bud Light Golden Wheat aluminum can.
SKIN Industries bikini giveaway: SKIN Industries hosts Dip & Dance at Encore Beach Club. They'll be giving away 50 Skin Industries gift bags with a bikini and tank top in each.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Diddy & Fam on the Cover of VIBE Magazine [HITS STANDS TODAY]
Sean Combs (AKA Diddy) covered VIBE Magazine's JUICE Aug/Sept Issue. Check out a slice of the interview here, as Diddy speaks on Dr. Dre, regrettable interviews, Lil Kim, and Nicki Minaj:
Dr. Dre said that the last beat that floored him was “All About the Benjamins.” How does that make you feel?
It’s humbling. I was in the studio with Dre the other day. He started working on a record for me. Watching him as a producer is watching greatness. We had a lot of similar traits. It was like looking in the mirror. He would ask questions like, “How you feel about this?” People don’t really understand true producers want to know how you feel about things. We are some of the most observant people on the planet.
What happened during the Martin Bashir interview on Nightline?
There were times in the interview when I had to give him an ultimatum. The questions weren’t being handled the right way. In hindsight, when I saw him I shouldn’t had done the interview because I know the style of interview that he does . . . The whole thing about giving a Maybach to my son, that’s really like a racist question. You don’t ask White people what they buy their kids. And they buy ‘em Porsches and convertible Bentleys and it ain’t no question. It’s really a racist question and put things back in perspective with money and the way that people still look at you. And I’m not saying that consciously he’s a racist. But he probably don’t even realize that he would not ask Steve Jobs that. He would be like Steve Jobs has that money and that’s the gift his kid is supposed to get.
Are the comments from Lil’ Kim about Nicki disheartening?
When I heard her say what she said, it didn’t really affect me. I didn’t get mad at her or anything like that. I knew how she felt. I ain’t agree with it. But also I know the motivation. I know that people say, “Oh, he’s trying to get a new Lil’ Kim.” I guess people will see in time. Yeah, Nicki’s had flavored wigs on, but besides that it ain’t even the same approach to the writing.
Kanye West Grabs Swizz Beatz, Mos Def, Nicki Minaj, and Kobe Bryant for "POWER" Remix
According to sources, Kanye West's "POWER" remix will feature some of the hottest artists in the game. Kanye tweeted on the progress of his sessions, "Scheduled studio visits 2day, Nikki [Minaj], John Legend, Mos Def, Swizz Beatz, Pusha T, Phillip Lim." Needless to say, he's back. He also mentioned, "I might have to put out 5 albums this year ... My spirit is full ... My heart is open ... People want new music ... I can't hold it back."
He also uploaded a picture that was taken from the studio, featuring Swizzy, Mos Def, and Kobe Bryant. Speaking on working with Kobe, "There's so many ways to break down the subject of power ... me and Kobe went in on it... Perfect person to help out on that." It should be a dope remix.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
The Boston Celtics Sign Shaquille O'Neal
Friday, July 30, 2010
Snack attack: Schools try to get the junk out (GLOBAL GOOD NEWS)
According to the Institute of Medicine and the National Center for Health Statistics, the average young person gets more than 10 percent of his or her calories from saturated fat, takes in less than two-thirds the recommended intake of calcium and more than double the recommended amount of sodium. And for boys and girls ages 9 to 13, 21 percent get more than one-fourth of their energy intake from added sugars. Food in the lunch and breakfast programs must meet nutritional standards to qualify for federal reimbursement, but food sold in other school venues, including vending machines, aren't subject to those requirements. Some states have passed their own laws regulating vending machines, including California, which forbids some non-nutritious snacks. In San Francisco, the school board has a stricter policy, passing a wellness policy implemented in the 2003-04 year that banned sodas (this is now part of the state standard, too) and nixed snacks like baked potato chips. Drinks allowed in San Francisco school vending machines include water, juice, milk and juice/water blends with no added sweeteners, caffeine or herbal supplements. Snacks include yogurt bars, tuna salad and crackers, fruit bars and sunflower seeds. Healthier snack machines are showing up all over. Jolly Backer, CEO of San Diego-based Fresh Healthy Vending, says the company has machines in 1,700 locations, including schools, across the United States. Offerings include items such as yogurts and fresh fruit. 'All the top-selling drinks and snacks that you'd find in a Whole Foods Market you'll find in our machines,' says Backer.
Snack attack: Schools try to get the junk out (GLOBAL GOOD NEWS)
According to the Institute of Medicine and the National Center for Health Statistics, the average young person gets more than 10 percent of his or her calories from saturated fat, takes in less than two-thirds the recommended intake of calcium and more than double the recommended amount of sodium. And for boys and girls ages 9 to 13, 21 percent get more than one-fourth of their energy intake from added sugars. Food in the lunch and breakfast programs must meet nutritional standards to qualify for federal reimbursement, but food sold in other school venues, including vending machines, aren't subject to those requirements. Some states have passed their own laws regulating vending machines, including California, which forbids some non-nutritious snacks. In San Francisco, the school board has a stricter policy, passing a wellness policy implemented in the 2003-04 year that banned sodas (this is now part of the state standard, too) and nixed snacks like baked potato chips. Drinks allowed in San Francisco school vending machines include water, juice, milk and juice/water blends with no added sweeteners, caffeine or herbal supplements. Snacks include yogurt bars, tuna salad and crackers, fruit bars and sunflower seeds. Healthier snack machines are showing up all over. Jolly Backer, CEO of San Diego-based Fresh Healthy Vending, says the company has machines in 1,700 locations, including schools, across the United States. Offerings include items such as yogurts and fresh fruit. 'All the top-selling drinks and snacks that you'd find in a Whole Foods Market you'll find in our machines,' says Backer.
The Orkin Design Rolltop Laptop is Ultra-Portable
The Orkin Design Rolltop Laptop is Ultra-Portable
Kanye West Raps at Twitter HQ and Joins Twitter
General Life Music Presents. " DOPE D*** " New club Banger
General Life Music Presents. " DOPE D*** " New club Banger
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Russell Simmons' Assistant Covered in Blood, in Times Square
Don't be alarmed. Russell Simmons' assistant was not harmed in this incident; however, she was part of a PETA demonstration for the unethical treatment of animals. Simone Reyes was one of three volunteers, who was wrapped like a piece of meat and placed in the middle of Times Square. She braved the 90-degree heat with efforts to raise awareness for vegetarianism. PETA's argument was that animals are just like humans in the sense that they live and breathe also. When asked what their goal was, a PETA volunteer exclaimed,
"To raise some awareness about the cruelty surrounding the meat and dairy industry, and hopefully turn a few people 'veg!'" "We are challenging people to really think about what 'meat' is," says PETA senior campaigner Ashley Byrne. "When you eat flesh, you're eating the corpse of an abused animal who did not want to die. We're encouraging kind consumers to try going vegan."
For more information, visit www.goveg.com.
Check out the photos and video here:
Russell Simmons' Assistant Covered in Blood, in Times Square
Don't be alarmed. Russell Simmons' assistant was not harmed in this incident; however, she was part of a PETA demonstration for the unethical treatment of animals. Simone Reyes was one of three volunteers, who was wrapped like a piece of meat and placed in the middle of Times Square. She braved the 90-degree heat with efforts to raise awareness for vegetarianism. PETA's argument was that animals are just like humans in the sense that they live and breathe also. When asked what their goal was, a PETA volunteer exclaimed,
"To raise some awareness about the cruelty surrounding the meat and dairy industry, and hopefully turn a few people 'veg!'" "We are challenging people to really think about what 'meat' is," says PETA senior campaigner Ashley Byrne. "When you eat flesh, you're eating the corpse of an abused animal who did not want to die. We're encouraging kind consumers to try going vegan."
For more information, visit www.goveg.com.
Check out the photos and video here:
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Pepper Zoo Presents: Cast of Tyrese Gibson's Asian Jersey Shore - Featuring Ex-Nude Model, Asian Guidos and Snooki Double
It's about time somebody created an Asian American reality show without all of the typicial stereotypes included! We give major props to Gibson for introducing this hit new series (with an Asian flare) to America. The show has begun filming, and The Pepper Zoo brings you some exclusive photos from the pilot episode and a clip from casting auditions:
Monday, July 12, 2010
No More Dentists? Gel Regenerates Teeth
A new peptide, in gel or film form, allows cells inside teeth to regenerate inside the mouth within a month. Dentists will not have to do any more drilling, thanks to this innovative technology.
"It's not like toothpaste," which prevent cavities, said Nadia Benkirane-Jessel, a scientist at the Institut National de la Sante et de la Recherche Medicale and a co-author of a recent paper. "Here we are really trying to control cavities (after they develop)." The gel or thin film contains a peptide known as MSH, or melanocyte-stimulating hormone.
It could make trips to the dentist much more enjoyable, with less pain and discomfort. It also avoids crowns after a cavity is filled. Pow!
The Pepper Zoo at Red Bull Flugtag Miami 2010
For the first time in history, Red Bull Flugtag stopped in Miami to display the finest homemade, human-powerered flying machines. The Pepper Zoo made an appearance at the event, and saw some entertaining flights! The best one was probably the "Tiger Woods" replica, which was built to resemble an Escalade with a broken window. The pilot was dressed at Tiger, and the co-pilot as his wife.
Miami's event brought in over 100,000 people! The very first Red Bull Flugtag launched in Vienna, Austria in 1991. Ever since, the event has been held in over 35 countries and attracted up to 300,000 people. The record for the farthest flight-to-date currently stands at 195 feet set in 2000 at Flugtag Austria. The U.S. record stands at 155 feet set in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2007. Check out one of our clips from the show:
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Who's Copping the iPhone 4?
After Apple's founder Steve Jobs' WWDC Conference, the Apple heads out there have made up their minds: It is time for the launch of iPhone 4. I don't know about you, but the thin shape and HD camera capabilities seem to be enough for Apple fans to get hooked. If that's not enough, it has a 960 x 640 IPS screen and video chat as well.
The Pepper Zoo In The Lab
It's been awhile since our last post, but we have been working on a variety of different projects for The Pepper Zoo! As recently announced, our contest winners have been chosen and we are in the process of pumping out the very first The Pepper Zoo Mixtape so please STAY TUNED because we have some heaters for you. Let's get it!!!!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Winner of The Pepper Zoo X Mannie Fresh RAW Talent Search
On behalf of all of us here at The Pepper Zoo and the Mannie Fresh RAW Talent Search, we would like to thank all of the contestants who competed in this contest.
For those of you who have not been following the contest, we will give you a little heads up on the progress of it. After the final review of muic samples that were sent in, we selected 5 finalists. Once the selection of finalists was completed, the finalists received an invitation to compete in the final round. The final round consisted of a video competition with the finalists, of which we selected an overall winner. The Pepper Zoo will sponsor the overall top two winners. The top five winners' singles will be included in the Black Pepper Zoo Mixtape featuring Mannie Fresh. With over 20,000 entries, it was hard to choose ONE winner. The overall winner was chosen based on voting poll results of the final video round, musical talent, efforts that were put into the contest, and personality. Without further ado, The Pepper Zoo X Mannie Fresh have selected Rock Em Sock Em Robots as the official winner of the talent search contest! In a close second place, is BBC. Congratulations!
Rock Em Sock Em Robots is a group based out of Texas, with a real street vibe to their music. The main members Dekstar and Swisar, describe their music as "kind of like two MC's stepping into the ring and battling it out over a beat with a mix of East Coast hip-hop and West Coast rap."
BBC is a group based out of Arizona, with a combination of talents through hip hop and R&B. Blayne R and Yung Trillionaire have opened for artists such as Soulja Boy and New Boyz. They take a unique approach to their musical talent by incorporating hip hop with a R&B twist.
All of our five finalists will be featured on the upcoming mixtape hosted by Mannie Fresh. Once again, thanks to all of the talented contestants who entered and be on the look out for the next contest! We will be contacting the winners in regards to sponsorship/promotions, etc.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
New Energy Source Funded by Google
Geothermal energy is a clean, unlimited energy source that does not require certain weather conditions to work properly. Google has funded the development of a jet engine-inspired drill for geothermal drilling, which produces energy through super-heated water. In August, they will drill a 4-inch hole to 1,000 feet deep. If the procedure goes as planned, the price of geothermal energy will be more inexpensive.
Behind the Scenes of "Married on Myspace" Show
If you don't know by now, a reality show entitled "Married on Myspace" takes viewers into the world of a couple's wedding ceremony planning and preparation with the help of Myspace. With the success of the first season (1 million views per episode), the show has been renewed for another season.
Spike Lee Designs "Absolut Brooklyn" Bottle
Absolut launched limited edition flavor, Absolut Brooklyn, which is infused with apple and ginger. Designed by Director Spike Lee, the bottle features a depiction of a brownstone with the house number of Lee's home in Cobble Hill (childhood home). As a beneficial initative behind the campaign, Absolut has donated $50,000 toward Habitat for Humanity to fund a homes project in Bedford-Stuyvesant.
Drake - Thank Me Later Tracklist
1. Fireworks (Feat. Alicia Keys) (Produced By Noah “40″ Shebib, Mattew “Boi-1da” Samuels & Crada)
2. Karaoke (Produced By Francis & The Lights)
3. The Resistance (Produced By Noah “40″ Shebib & Matthew “Boi-1da” Samuels)
4. Over (Produced By Matthew “Boi-1da” Samuels & Al-Khaaliq)
5. Show Me A Good Time (Produced By Kanye West)
6. Up All Night (Feat. Nicki Minaj) (Produced By Matthew “Boi-1da” Samuels)
7. Fancy (Feat. T.I . & Swizz Beatz) (Produced by Swizz Beatz)
8. Shut It Down (Feat. The Dream) (Produced By Noah “40″ Shebib & Omen)
9. Unforgettable (Feat. Young Jeezy) (Produced By Noah “40″ Shebib & Matthew “Boi-1da” Samuels)
10. Light Up (Feat. Jay-Z) (Produced By Noah “40″ Shebib & Tone Mason)
11. Miss Me (Feat. Lil Wayne) (Produced By Matthew “Boi-1da” Samuels & Noah “40″ Shebib)
12. Cece’s Interlude (Produced By Noah “40″ Shebib)
13. Find Your Love (Produced By Kanye West & Jeff Bhasker)
14. Thank Me Now (Produced By Timbaland)
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Comcast Turns iPad Into One Giant Remote for Your Living Room
Comcast has introduced a new app for the iPad that serves as a remote for your living room. Also deemed a "social remote," it allows you to chat with friends and invite others to watch their favorite shows as well. It introduces a whole new social experience to the television.
Nine-Year-Old Super Model Earns Over $250,000 Per Year
Fetima Ptacek is not your average nine-year-old young girl. Not only is she one of the highest-paid models, but she has made many appearances on various televisions shows and movies. In addition to her many talents, she earns around $250,000 a year. Most importantly, she attends school in Queens, New York.
She has further aspirations to become a lawyer, and the first female president of the United States. In her short career, she has made multiple appearances on "Saturday Night Life," starred in a leading role for "The Miracle of Spanish Harlem," and met Michelle Obama (her new pen pal) on the set of "Sesame Street."
She says of Obama, "She is very down to earth. I look up to her - literally." Check out the interview with CBS News:
Watch CBS News Videos Online
South Korea: Samsung Electronics to spend $21 billion on health, green energy
Electronics by 2020. The investment plan comes after Lee Kun-hee, the son of its founder, returned as the chairman of Samsung Electronics in March, nearly two years after he stepped down following a legal scandal. Lee, 68, has repeatly warned most businesses and products that represent Samsung today would disappear from the market in 10 years and said it needed to start again. 'Governments around the world are now investing in green industries to address the issues of depleting energy resources... We must move ahead decisively to take this opportunity,' Lee said in a statement.
Samsung Electronics is the world's top maker of computer memory chips and LCD screens and No.2 handset manufacturer.