Sitting beneath the shadows of a renovated Madison Square Garden lies a modern looking, highly illuminated Italian eatery that upon opening in 2008 set the benchmark for the décor and fare that would emerge citywide some four years later. Earmarked by two Vespas decoratively placed outside of the restaurant’s front entrance is Lugo Caffe, which meshes traditionally inspired Italian fare with the experience of sitting café side in a contemporary European setting. It’s clear that conceptually, much of the thought of Lugo Caffe went towards the décor. But as impressive as the place’s interior would suggest, the passable and utterly forgettable Italian dishes being served from the kitchen are simply substandard at such a fine looking dining establishment.

With a dearth of notable restaurants near the commuting hub that is Penn Station, Lugo Caffe Is certainly adequate in comparison. But as a standalone eatery, much of the anticipation of dining here dies down once the appeal of your surroundings subsides. That being said, the place does deserve credit for the big feeling, modern style Italian restaurants that more recent openings seem to emulate. From the eye catching floor to ceiling case of wine bottles to the borderline touristy, but not quite there Italian inspired wall hangings, well lit interior shines upon a restaurant with a great deal of promise and an unmistakable energy inside- perfect for commuters or after work types nearby looking to grab a bite; not so much for locals traveling here for a fine dining experience.

The menu is relatively expansive, broken down into the usual suspects- Salumeria, Pizza, Antipasti, Pasta, and Secondi- many of which sound better than they taste. Opting for a few different tastes, our party opened with a forgettable “Wild Mushroom” pizza. Reasonably priced at $13, the thinly cut, mostly crust laden slices were bland to a fault, despite being topped with provolone, tomatoes, and fresh parmigiano. Portion size here was no issue however as the affordable pizza is sized to fill even the hungriest pizza lover. The same could not be said however for the diminutive “Scallops al Cavofiore,” astronomically priced at $28. With a plate of just three delicately prepared scallops, the accoutrements of cauliflower, black truffle, and a single piece of crispy proscuitto failed to make the plate look like a full dinner portion. Rather, it looked like the rest of the meal had been plucked off of the dish on its way out from the kitchen to our table. The lone notable however was a bowl of the “Gnocchi di Patate” ($20), soft pasta pillows blended with heirloom tomatoes, ricotta, and bits of arugula. Although the tasty pasta would not salvage an otherwise ordinary dinner, it the combination of red sauce and fluffy pieces of gnocchi and soft cheese did make for our favorite of the evening’s selections.

Unfortunately the highlight of our sole trip to Lugo Caffe began to slowly deteriorate shortly after our arrival. And once the excitement of being inside of such a fun looking Italian establishment died down, the dishes managed to disappoint us even further. With a new expansion to Atlantic City’s Revel, perhaps we’d be best served heading to New Jersey for our next dinner at Lugo Caffe, because after this experience, it certainly seems like it’d be worth the gamble.

Rundown of the Meal

Pizza

Wild Mushroom Pizza ($13)

Pasta

Gnocchi di Patate ($20)

Secondi

Scallops al Cavolfiore ($28)

*Meal Highlight

Arts & Culture

Sunday, December 2nd – Mana Contemporary presents Keith Haring, from December 2, 2012 – February 15, 2013. The exhibition will showcase an unprecedented ensemble of works from a private collection, including over-sized metal panels originally spray-painted on the FDR Drive in 1984. (Mana Contemporary)

Sports

Friday, November 30th – The New York Knicks look to turn things around in the Eastern Conference at the famed Madison Square Garden. Brave the cold and head to the historic arena to see your Knickerbockers take on the Washington Wizards! (New York Knicks)

Music & Entertainment

Friday, November 30th – Movie release day. Quiet night tonight? Check out these two extremely violent flicks coming out today! Brad Pitt returns to the silver screen in a major way playing enforcer Jackie Cogan in, “Killing Them Softly” (R). Early buzz is hot for this crime picture which is said to be a return to grittier mob features from the past. It also doesn’t hurt that the flick contains marquee mob character actors like Ray Liotta and Tony Soprano himself! The griminess continues with, “The Collection” (R) the sequel to 2009′s, “The Collector.” It’s a torture-porn flick with something actually going for it. And not just a tired SAW retread. 

Friday, November 30th – Sludge metal legends, High On Five are primed to take over the Bowery Ballroom stage this evening. What a better way to kick off the Holiday Season then will some pulse pounding heavy metal. High On Five will be joined by Goatwhore filling the opening slot. (Bowery Ballroom)

Nightlife

Saturday, December 1st – Join Supermodel,  Heidi Klum for a haunted holiday party to support the American Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy victims. The model and Project Runway host is known for her over the top costumes year to year. Make sure your front and center to see what the blonde bombshell is rocking! (Haunted Holiday Party)

Other

Saturday, December 1st – The day has finally arrived. You entered our contest and followed our coverage. Now it’s finally time to head to Basketball City – Pier 36 for the, “NYC Craft Beer Festival – Winter Harvest.” Grab your friends and sample hundreds of top craft beer selections and foods for the season and band together as a Craft Beer Community and support our neighbors with our Sandy Relief Supplies Drive! If that isn’t enough your pals @LocalBozo (get it?) will be at the evening session. So, Tweet us out and we will hang! (NYC Craft Beer Festival) 

And as Always, Droid users- make sure to Download the official LocalBozo.com App for FREE from Google Play (formerly the Android Market)! Get all the information we can fit onto your smart phone, NOW!

Arts & Culture

Saturday, March 24th – What is the, ‘Badoo Project’ you say? Well, it’s four of America’s hottest fashion photographers who will undertake the ambitious task of capturing the portraits of 1,000 New Yorkers, to give them their ultimate online profile picture. Twenty-four wannabes will be selected at the shoot to appear on advertising billboards across NYC in April. (The Badoo Project)

Sports

Saturday, March 24th- With the news of Tim Tebow’s trade to the New York Jets it seems, ‘Linsanity’ may have faded. But for all you diehard Knick fans the season isn’t over yet. Head over to Madison Square Garden to see your Knickerbockers take on the Detroit Pistons. (New York Knicks)

Music & Entertainment

Friday, March 23th- Movie release day. Quiet night tonight? Check out these releases coming out today. Harry Potter, Twilight, and now, ‘The Hunger Games’ (PG-13). Check out what everyone is talking about with this dystopian film, based in the not so distant future. The movie stars newcomer, Jennifer Lawrence, Elizabeth Banks, and Stanley Tucci. Are you ready for Indonesia’s first amazing action film? Then you must seek out, The Raid: Redemption (R). The story follows a SWAT team who becomes trapped in a tenement run by a ruthless mobster and his army of killers and thugs.

Friday, March 23rd – She was your favorite angst ridden pop star in the ’90s. But after a long break, Fiona Apple is back. The outspoken, and highly talented singer-songwriter has a wealth of new material. You can see all this live, tonight at Music Hall of Williamsburg. Naturally, a talent like Apple sold this place out in no time, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to score a ticket. ( Music Hall of Williamsburg)

Nightlife

Friday, March 23rd – Strap on your cocktail dubs this evening at the, ‘For Your Eyes Only’ Burlesque Party at The Scarlet. The popular west side club will host the special live Burlesque performance, curated by Terry Casey who will supply all the tassel twirling tunes! This event, is of course 21+, so keep the little ones at home. (DEG Production)

Other

Saturday, March 24th – Did winter pack on the pounds? Well, the Urban Girl Squad is here to help. It’s Boot Camp in Central Park! Certified nutritionist and founder of JG Fitness, Jennifer Giamo, will lead a 60 minute work-out that will get you energized for spring. Afterwards, she’ll run a discussion on how to fuel your body for all types of fitness activity goals. (Urban Girl Squad)

And as Always, Droid users- make sure to Download the official LocalBozo.com App for FREE from the Android Market! Get all the information we can fit onto your smart phone, NOW!

Second and even third generation athletes have started becoming commonplace in most major sports, with the sons and daughters of previous legends attaining greater levels of success than their parents and grandparents. We’ve seen sons of baseball sluggers called up to our favorite teams, outstanding shooting guards in basketball, and even a certain pair of star quarterback brothers, who’ve collected several championship rings in the NFL. From a similar mold and pedigree, WWE Diva Tamina began her professional wrestling career in early 2010 in Florida. Under the tutelage of her father, legendary wrestler “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka and her brother, former WWE performer, Deuce, Tamina quickly rose to prominence, debuting with the main roster in the spring of that year, as a manager.

Relying more on her size and strength than most of the other Divas in the women’s division, Tamina’s athleticism has become her calling card and she’s worked to become one of the more impressive female workers on the roster, since her call up. With fans clamoring to see more of Tamina in the ring, only time will tell what the future holds for the promising young athlete.

On Sunday, March 18th Tamina and the Superstars of the WWE return to New York City’s Madison Square Garden on the “Road to Wrestlemania Tour” with a special start time of 5pm. Headlined by a six man tag team Main Event, Randy Orton and WWE Champion CM Punk team with the returning Triple H to take on Chris Jericho, Dolph ZIggler, and Cody Rhodes, the show is packed with all of the Superstars from the Raw and Smackdown brands and is the final New York City stop before Wrestlemania 28 in Miami, Florida on April 1st. Also of note, John Cena battles Kane in a Last Man Standing Match and World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan defends his title for the first time at The Garden against behemoths Mark Henry and The Big Show in a Triple Threat Match.

LocalBozo.com was fortunate enough to grab a candid interview with WWE Diva Tamina. Listen in as we discuss her start in the wrestling business, standing out amongst a sea of other Divas, her conditioning and nutrition on the road, and which past or present WWE Diva she’d like to battle in a Wrestlemania dream match. Also, Tamina makes her pick for the winner of the Wrestlemania 28 main event between John Cena and The Rock. Listen as LocalBozo.com sits down with one of the more promising young female Superstars to come along in quite some time.

- Jane Van Arsdale

To check out some of our previous posts on the WWE, check out our links below:

- Things We Like That Don’t Get Enough Respect- WWE (Posted 7/8/10)

- The WWE & a Blizzard Invade Madison Square Garden (Posted 12/28/10)

- LocalBozo.com Invades the Wrestlemania 27 Press Conference (Posted 3/31/11)

- Listen to LocalBozo.com’s Interview with Mason Ryan (Posted 11/19/11)

- The WWE Raw Holiday Tour at Madison Square Garden (Posted 12/28/11)

- LocalBozo.com’s Video Interview with Adam “Edge” Copeland at the ‘Bending the Rules’ NY Press Day (Posted 3/8/12)

Arts & Culture

Friday, February 24th – The Active Space in Bushwick, Brooklyn celebrates the grand opening of its new gallery with an artist’s reception for “Dreaming Without Sleeping,” works by Criminy Johnson. Johnson creates oil paintings depicting the strange environments and subjects he imagines while working out his ideas. This is yet another offbeat event to support local artists and enjoy the ever burgeoning Bushwick artist community. (The Active Space)

Sports

Saturday, February 25th- It’s Hockey night in America as the unstoppable New York Rangers take on the Buffalo Sabres. It is sure to be a battle for New York supremacy! Tickets are still onsale, but you better snatch them up quick because the boys in blue have been tearing it up all season. Oh, and If you make it out to the game, tell Dancin’ Larry that LocalBozo says hi. (New York Rangers)

Music & Entertainment

Friday, February 24th- Movie release day. Quiet night tonight? Check out these releases coming out today. Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston are a down on their luck NYC couple transplanted to a Georgia hippie commune with hilariously absurd results in the David Wain directed ‘Wanderlust’ (R). If thrills are what you desire, check out Amanda Seyfried as a young woman who must face the abductor of her sister in, ‘Gone.’ (PG-13)

Friday, February 24th – Hey, remember Nickelodeon in the 90s? It was an awesome time, where they didn’t treat kids and teens like idiots. You can relive those glory days tonight at Bowery Ballroom for the, ‘Adventures Of Pete & Pete’ reunion! Reunited for the first time ever, it’s Pete, Pete’s brother Pete, Ellen, Mom, Dad and Artie the Strongest Man in the World. Join the cast and the show’s creators for an evening of obsessive reminiscing about all things Pete. There will be a cast and crew panel discussion, an audience Q and A, classic clips and episodes, and much more. This will be their only New York City appearance, so jump on it! (Bowery Ballroom)

Nightlife

Friday, February 24th – Beats In Space, the popular indie radio show mixed live by Tim Sweeney and guests in New York City on WNYU 89.1 FM is heading to Santos Party House. The team behind the show will be performing live with multiple improv DJ sets to melt your ears. Head over early tonight, for reduced admission. (Santos Party House)

Other

Saturday, February 25th – Is it the end of the world or is it a day long celebration for all things hog and beer? We are guessing the latter. It’s ‘aPORKalypse Now’ and with two overloaded sessions, the event will include hogs prepared inventively by 14 chefs in a multitude of ways. While guests are chowing down on all batches of savory and salty goodness, they can sample some of the finest in craft beers with 50 different brewers including 15+ rare cask ales and some delicious local wines.  ( Get Real NY )

Saturday, February 25th – You love to eat them during game day, and have watched our extensive video series. Now it’s your turn to take the G train to Greenpoint, Brooklyn and head to Red Star Sports Bar & Restaurant for the, ‘Best Wings In Brooklyn Competition!’ The event is free to the public and will feature some of the very best of Brooklyn fighting it out for hot wing supremacy. (Best Wings In Brooklyn Competition)

And as Always, Droid users- make sure to Download the official LocalBozo.com App for FREE from the Android Market! Get all the information we can fit onto your smart phone, NOW!

 

Arts & Culture

Friday, January 6th- For six nights starting tonight, the innovative reRun Gastropub Theatre in DUMBO will be screening “Codependent Lesbian Space Alien Seeks Same,” a comedy that made a huge splash at Sundance and was recently nominated for the “Best Film Not Playing at a Theater Near You” Gotham Award. The film is a spoof of the 1950’s sci-fi genre and a traditional romantic comedy, and it follows the story of aliens from the planet Zots who are sent to Earth to have their hearts broken because romantic emotions are toxic to their planet’s atmosphere. Sounds like a fun, schlocky way to start the weekend. Plus they serve booze! ( The World’s Largest Dinosaurs )

Saturday, January 7th– Kids ages five to ten and their adult companions are invited to MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) for “My Kind of Place!”- a monthly event where everyone is encouraged to engage in lively discussions and fun activities while looking closely at modern masterpieces and cutting-edge contemporary art. The best thing is, admission is free! ( My Kind of Place! )

Sports

Friday, January 6th- Sunday, January 8th- The superstars of the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) return to Madison Square Garden all weekend long for the MSG Invitational. You may remember our post from last year’s weekend of festivities, and if not, here’s a link. It’s a great, cheap event at the Garden, and a rowdy event for boozin’ upstairs. ( PBR at MSG ) The time is now for Big Blue. Tickets are incredibly still available NOW for the New York Giants’ home playoff game versus the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday afternoon at 1pm. Get your tickets and cheer Eli & company on so they can travel to either Green Bay or San Francisco next week! (Giants Playoff Tickets)

Music & Entertainment

Friday, December 30th- Movie release day. Quiet night tonight? Check out these releases coming out today. With the new “Sherlock Holmes” and “Mission: Impossible” films controlling the box office, the only wide release this weekend is “The Devil Inside” (R). It looks terrifying, but not as terrifying as “New Years Eve.” Zing! With a cast of no names, don’t blame us if you hate it.

Friday, January 6th – Sunday, January 8th- We caught her show last night and interviewed her backstage and she’s still performing locally all weekend long. The Star of The Comedy Central Roast of Charlie Sheen, comedian Amy Schumer, is at Carolines in Times Square. If you like raunch from a comic who can dish it with the best of them, you need to see her standup act. Our full review and interview will be live on Monday, so check in with us for every morsel of entertainment she provided. (Amy Schumer Tickets)

Saturday, January 7th- You loved his hit, “I’ll Be” which was the go-to song for every romantic film and television show of the late nineties. Now you can see the southern crooner live. It’s Edwin McCain, and he will be headlining the HighLine Ballroom this Saturday night. If that single is your only connection to McCain prepare to be blown away by his diverse catalog, and hear new tracks off his 2011 album, Mercy Bound. (Edwin McCain Tickets)

Nightlife

Saturday, January 7th- Head back in time and down to the Canal Room tomorrow night for their Back to the Eighties Show with RUBIX KUBE- the Ultimate 80s Tribute Band! It’ll be a nostalgia filled late night starting at 11:30, with doors at 9:30 filled with The Bangles, The Buggles, and Much Much More. Tickets are only $17.50! ( RUBIX CUBE )

Saturday, January 7th- Head downtown to the UCBeast (Upright Citizens Brigade East Village) to get you’re laugh on with Kara Klenk and Nick Turner as they host, “If You Build It: A Stand-Up Comedy Show,” a weekly live show featuring some of the best up and coming stand up comics in the country and major headliners! This week’s guests include: Max Silvestri (Details.com, Big Terrific) and Seth Herzog (Late Night w/Jimmy Fallon, VH1) (UCB Theatre)

Other

Sunday, January 8th- Creators of the “Flash Mob” Improv everywhere present the 11th Annual No Pants Subway Ride. Drop your drawers if you’re brave enough, and hop on trains throughout the city. This year we hear this half naked happening is going global! So, why not be a part of some mass transit nudity! ( No Pants Subway Ride )

And as Always, Droid users- make sure to Download the official LocalBozo.com App for FREE from the Android Market! Get all the information we can fit onto your smart phone, NOW!

 

Arts & Culture

Friday, December 30th – Monday, January 2nd- There’s scant few days remaining to check out the American Museum of Natural History’s “The World’s Largest Dinosaurs” exhibit, featuring the 11 foot tall and over 60 foot wide ‘Mamenchisaurus.’ Admission is just $25 and is certainly not limited to this exhibit which closes up shop on Monday. Make your New Year’s resolution count and indulge in some culture in your life for once. ( The World’s Largest Dinosaurs )

Sports

Friday, December 30th – Sunday, January 1st- You may or may not have heard that LocalBozo.com is a big fan of pro wrestling. Well if you are too, you’re in luck. Across the pond tonight at the Izod Center at the Meadowlands in New Jersey, the WWE Superstars on the Smackdown brand are collaborating for a non-televised event featuring the likes of the Big Show, Sheamus, Cody Rhodes and Wade Barrett. ( WWE Smackdown! Holiday Tour ) If the WWE doesn’t strike your fancy how about Week 17, Giants versus the Dallas Cowboys in a winner gets into the playoffs and loser goes home showdown for the NFC East crown? It’s Eli Manning versus Tony Romo at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, and it doesn’t get any bigger than this. (Giants-Cowboys Tickets)

Music & Entertainment

Friday, December 30th- Movie release day. Quiet night tonight? Check out these releases coming out today. There are none in wide release on account of the holiday weekend, so check out the ones already in theaters. Just don’t see “New Year’s Eve” (PG-13)- we hear bad things.

Friday, December 30th- Sunday, January 1st- Always a lot of good holiday shows over the New Year’s weekend. Tonight and tomorrow you can check out Phish at Madison Square Garden if you can manage to grab tickets, Govt Mule at the Beacon Theatre, and Patti Smith and her band in her annual run at the Bowery Ballroom. Tickets for all three are bound to be limited at best. For a different flavor, make New Year’s Day memorable by trekking up to the Bronx where one of the first boy bands- New Edition- returns at the Paradise Theater for One Night Only.

Nightlife

Friday, December 30th- The night before the BIG party begins, the House of Yes delivers “The Snow Ball,” described as a ‘winter wonderland of sexy delights.’ The evening features DJ Johnny Dynell and host ‘Go Go Harder.’ Look, it’s a gay and lesbian party if you read between the lines- but it does sound like a real gas. Dancing included; Blowouts optional. ( The Snow Ball )

Saturday, December 31st- Still no plans? It’s friggin’ New Year’s Eve! You should be ashamed of yourself! Our advice: check out OpenTable.com, grab a late reservation at a restaurant with those that you care about, wait until the ball drops, and then head out to a low key bar without a cover, and enjoy the first few hours of 2012 the way God intended. Or go drop $175 per person at the Gansevoort. Either way, enjoy yourself and be safe in any way that makes you happy. Happy New Year!

Other

Saturday, December 31st- Join some other ‘nutcases’ for the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run. It’s just $45 to run, so lineup at 10pm. Start the night off with a dance contest, a costume contest, and collaborate with other members of the physically fit that also have limited NYE options. Normally, we’d advise against running through Central Park at night, but for some reason on New Year’s Eve, it’s okay. ( Emerald Nuts Midnight Run )

And as Always, Droid users- make sure to Download the official LocalBozo.com App for FREE from the Android Market! Get all the information we can fit onto your smart phone, NOW!

Not to be outdone by the blizzard last December which marred the attendance at the same show, a downpour of rain around the Manhattan area Tuesday night again made it a hindrance for longtime wrestling fans to easily access the city’s famed Madison Square Garden, as the superstars of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) returned for their almost annual “Raw Holiday Tour.” The non-televised, three hour wrestling show would feature the mainstays of the USA Network’s ‘Monday Night Raw’ brand. And once again, the WWE proved that regardless of the names in their rotating cavalcade of a roster, knowing their audience and sending their fans home happy is a proficiency at which they have no equal.

It should be mentioned that the Garden was surprisingly undersold, considering that holiday shows here have historically been incredibly successful. One must question however, whether last month’s ‘Survivor Series’ pay-per-view event in the same building may have depleted the attendance Tuesday night, as much of the 300 level seating inside the Garden remained empty throughout. But far be it for us to speculate as we were just there to be entertained, and entertained we were.

“AWESOME” blared over the MSG speakers, just after the conclusion of the National Anthem, as former reality star, and main eventer on this night, The Miz, was out to the ring first to address the vociferous audience. Antagonizing with anti-Knick and anti-New York rhetoric, Miz quickly drew the ire of the Garden faithful before his former partner R-Truth jumped into the ring from the crowd, blindsiding The Miz for an impromptu brawl. Out next was the Executive Vice President of Talent Relations, John Laurinaitis to remove R-Truth from the ring. The figurehead corporate stooge detested by the audience, then announced a thirteen man over-the-top battle royal, with the winner getting a title shot at champion Zack Ryder’s United States Championship later in the evening. With the fans indifferent toward many of the undercard workers on the brand and the match involving many of them, the underrated and vastly talented Dolph Ziggler managed to win outright.

The eye candy was out next as Divas champion Beth Phoenix would defend her title against the buxom Eve Torres, with the beautiful Bella Twins acting as guest referee and timekeeper for the bout. Leaning heavily toward Phoenix who would win by pinfall, the Bellas attacked Torres after the match bringing out WWE Diva and current Maxim cover girl Kelly Kelly, sporting a Carmelo Anthony Knicks Jersey to even the odds and clear the ring of the nefarious twins. Former WWE Superstar Mick Foley was out next to “host” the show, but seemingly only served to make an appearance, introduce WWE Hall of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler, and insert his hand into competitor Jack Swagger’s mouth courtesy of Mr. Socko.

After some throwaway matches featuring lesser known mid-card talents, the meat of the card shaped up around the final four contests of the evening. The Zack Ryder-Dolph Ziggler US Title match was perhaps the best of the night, with both men working hard for the Garden crowd. A reversed three count due to Ryder’s foot on the bottom rope led to the champion retaining his title a leading fans to chant his signature “Wooo, Wooo, Wooo” in unison, along with the charismatic Long Island native. The high flying duo Air Boom, featuring Evan Borne and Kofi Kingston successfully defended their WWE Tag Team Titles against the Hispanic team of Primo & Epico. The fun little match was fast paced and exciting, but showcasing valet Rosa Mendes’ signature gyrations was perhaps the bout’s most memorable moment.

The final two contests involved the WWE’s most popular assets from 2011. First, the polarizing John Cena, subject of the rousing “Let’s go Cena….Cena Sucks” chants, battled the recently returning Kane, one-on-one. The reaction to Cena’s entrance was easily the loudest of the night as clusters of adult boo-birds met packs of cheering children, creating a conflicted and deafening disharmony of volume. After briefly exchanging blows back and forth, the masked Kane’s use of a steel chair on Cena resulted in his disqualification. But after heading back into the ring to inflict more punishment on the wounded warrior, Kane was caught with Cena’s finisher- the Attitude Adjustment- sending him backstage on a high note.

After a brief intermission which allowed the ring crew to set up for the evening’s final match, it was main event time, as The Miz was back out again to take on WWE Champion CM Punk inside of a steel cage. What had been advertised as a triple threat match including superstar Alberto Del Rio was reconfigured at the last minute, due to Del Rio’s recent groin injury. With the crowd thoroughly in Punk’s corner, The Miz took control early and controlled much of the contest, utilizing his “heel” (bad guy) persona to attempt to crawl out of the cage through the door, rather than attempt to pin the champion fairly. The twenty minute bout saw the men exchange blows atop the elevated cage and was highlighted by Punk’s ode to the recently departed Randy “Macho Man” Savage, with his trademark flying elbow drop off of the top turnbuckle. Punk then threw the former reality star on his shoulders and finished The Miz off with his “Go to Sleep” finishing maneuver, retaining his title, and then climbed the cage again to acknowledge the wildly applauding fans.

If you missed out on November’s Survivor Series or on Tuesday night’s show, rest assured- the WWE announced a return to the World’s Most Famous Arena on March 18th 2012, on the “Road to Wrestlemania Tour.” It should come as no surprise that we’ve become quite fond of the WWE product, especially when the company makes its way to the northeast, historically among the company’s most successful touring outposts. And even without much of the roster appearing on last night’s show, the WWE always manages to deliver for even the most casual wrestling fan, time after time, at an affordable and unbeatable ticket value.

To check out some of our previous posts on the WWE, check out our links below:

-          Things We Like That Don’t Get Enough Respect- WWE (Posted 7/8/10)

-          The WWE & a Blizzard Invade Madison Square Garden (Posted 12/28/10)

-          LocalBozo.com Invades the Wrestlemania 27 Press Conference (Posted 3/31/11)

-          Listen to LocalBozo.com’s Interview with Mason Ryan (Posted 11/19/11)

- Jane Van Arsdale

World Wrestling Entertainment- Raw Holiday Tour
Live at Madison Square Garden
December 27, 2011
Ring Results

1. Dolph Ziggler won a 13 Man Over the Top Rope Battle Royal
2. Divas Champion, Beth Phoenix pinned Eve Torres
3. Alex Riley pinned Leo Kruger
4. Jerry “The King” Lawler pinned Jack Swagger
5. Santino Marella pinned Michael McGillicutty
6. United States Champion, Zack Ryder pinned Dolph Ziggler
7. Tag Team Champions, Air Boom pinned Epico & Primo
8. John Cena defeated Kane by Disqualification
9. WWE Champion, CM Punk pinned The Miz in a Steel Cage Match

Sunday, November 20th marks the return of the WWE to Madison Square Garden in the midst of the building’s massive renovation for the 25th annual Survivor Series, one of the entertainment brand’s most highly anticipated pay-per-view events each year. The Garden has long played host to many a wrestling spectacle over the past 25 years and Sunday’s legitimately sold out event should be no different. The main event features the return to action of wrestler-turned-action star Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in his first match in almost eight years, teaming with the face of the WWE, John Cena to take on former MTV reality star The Miz and R-Truth. The undercard his highlighted by WWE Champion Alberto Del Rio defending his title against the renegade, CM Punk, and a traditional Survivor Series match as a team captained by Wade Barrett faces Team Randy Orton in a 5 on 5 elimination contest.

One of the members of Orton’s team, Mason Ryan, was officially called up to the WWE’s main roster in January of this year and will officially be making his Madison Square Garden debut at the Survivor Series. The 6’5” 290 pound Welsh born Ryan is one of the more eye catching performers on the talent roster, primarily because of his massive and chiseled physique. Since beginning his training in 2007, Ryan quickly shot through the independent circuit, landing himself a developmental contract with the WWE, and catapulting himself to the big time in just a few short years. After debuting as a villain as part of CM Punk’s ‘New Nexus’ stable, Ryan seems to be transitioning into more of a fan favorite in the time tested battle of good versus bad guys the world of professional wrestling seems to traditionally convey.

LocalBozo.com caught up with rising WWE Superstar Mason Ryan from his home in Stamford, Connecticut where we talk about his start in wrestling and how the WWE discovered him, his anticipation for Sunday’s Survivor Series event and working in Madison Square Garden for the very first time, reflections on his first full year with the WWE’s main roster, what the return of The Rock and Mick Foley have meant in the locker room, and who behind the scenes has been most instrumental in bringing along Mason Ryan’s persona in and out of the ring.

If you can’t make it out to the Survivor Series on Sunday, you can find out how to order the extravaganza live on pay-per-view here. And if you lost out on tickets for this weekend, the WWE Raw Holiday Tour is returning to Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night, December 27th, with tickets starting as low as $34. The show is headlined by a Triple Threat Match inside of a Steel Cage with John Cena, CM Punk, and Alberto Del Rio vying for the WWE Championship, and the return to the ring of WWE Hall of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler, as he takes on Jack Swagger. The Smackdown! brand also headlines a show on December 30th across the pond at the Izod Center. For a three hour live event, with affordable ticket prices, there is simply no better form of live entertainment than seeing the WWE performers in person.

- Jane Van Arsdale

 

Arts & Culture

Saturday, November 19,7:30 pm – Choreographer/Filmmaker Abe Abraham presents his exquisite film “Wind and Tree,” an upper body dance study featuring artists from New York City Ballet, Armitage Gone! Dance, and other major companies and Broadway shows. Also “The Body in Space: A Filmmaker’s Perspective”, showing brief scenes from the movies “Raging Bull,” “Pickpocket,” and “The Man from London,” and how their directors deal with movement. ( ABABAR )

 Sports

Sunday, November 20th, 7:45pm -  It’s almost turkey time so that can only mean one thing, tt’s the annual WWE Survivor Series! International movie star and WWE Hall of Famer Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson returns to New York City’s famed Madison Square Garden to team up in a one night only match up with rival John Cena to face The Miz & R-Truth! Check out all this action and some much more live at MSG or in the comfort of you’re own home on pay-per-view! ( Ticketmaster )

Sunday, November 20th, 8:20pm – The weather is getting colder, and the days are shorter. That can only mean one thing, winter has arrived! The best way to spend a cold day is with plenty of Football. Do yourself a favor and head over to Metlife Stadium this Sunday to see the NY Giants take on the Philadelphia Eagles. Both teams need a big win here, so it’s a must see game of the week. ( New York Giants )

Music & Entertainment

Friday, November 11th – Movie release day. Quiet night tonight? Check out these releases coming out today. “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1” (PG-13) starring international teen idols Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner. Find out why this supernatural vampire and werewolf series is such a gigantic smash worldwide. Hint: dudes take their shirts off. Also opening, the sequel to the very popular family flick “Happy Feet Two” (PG) starring the voices of Elijah Wood, Robin Williams and Pink. Check out these beloved animated Penguins for kids of all ages.

Saturday, November 19th, 8:00pm – The Bull God himself, Kid Rock will be taking the stage of NYC’s Beacon Theater on a tour unlike anything we have seem before. Rock has assembled a team of Detroit titans to show support for other cities in need, and to show that Detroit, while experiencing it’s own difficulties still has the power to unite to help others around the country. Kid Rock, in association with this powerhouse group of local Detroit business people, will donate money to local charities, causes and individuals via the Kid Rock Foundation, all along every tour stop. ( Kid Rock Foundation )

Saturday, November 19th, 7:00pm –  You better be prepared to bang your head and get caught in a mosh when legendary thrash metallers, Obituary take the stage at Santos Party House. Obituary is known as one of the tightest metal outfits, with their crushing riffs, growling vocals, and insane breakdowns. Check them out for yourself live, but be forewarned, faces will be melted and souls will be possessed!Denial Fiend and Hypoxia will open the show. ( Santos Party House )

 Nightlife

Friday, November 18th, 7:00 pm – The Velvet Revolution Party is an annual event organized jointly by Consulates General of Slovakia and the Czech Republic in New York, in cooperation with the Czech Center New York. The purpose of the event  is to celebrate the  fall of communism regime and the triumph of democracy in former Czechoslovakia in November 1989. Program includes: opening remarks by Consuls General of Slovakia and the Czech Republic, Free Welcome drink sponsored by Double Cross Vodka Slovakia & Dance Party by DJ Eitan Noyze. (LAVO NY)

Other

Saturday, November 19th, 11am – Athletes of the liver will be put to their sternest test yet – traveling from the West Village to the East Village and consuming 26 beers at 26 different bars along the way. Finishing is not mandatory, participating is. Your entry fee will gain you access to 26 beers at 26 different bars set along our amazing course. It will also gain you access to a carefree, fun group of thousands of like-minded individuals looking to have a good time and make some new friends.The LocalBozo crew will be in attendance all day long. So please tweet us out, and join us for one of many pints! ( NYC Beerathon )

Sunday, November 20th, 5:00 pm -The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) along with Bud Light present the,10th Annual OUTAuction the largest and most visible art auction event in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community celebrating established and emerging artists as well as recognizing GLAAD’s Top 100 Artists and our OUT in Art Award recipient. This will be an evening capturing the perfect synergy between art, fashion and interior design. (GLAAD)

 

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