Jelena Ostapenko wins the Women’s Singles French Open 2017 – Photo: ESPN
Favourite and no. 4 seed Simona Halep was upset by the unseeded Jelena Ostapenko. She beat Halep 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 and got a great Birthday present!
Ostapenko had beaten Timea Bacsinszky in the Semis, who had eliminated Venus Williams.
FRENCH OPEN Men’s Singles Semis
Photo: ESPN
Stan Wawrinka came back from 2 sets down to beat the no. 1 Andy Murray, 6-7 (6), 6-3, 5-7, 7-6 (3), 6-1. He will meet ‘the King of Klay’, Rafael Nadal in the Final who defeated Dominic Thiem in straight sets.
USAIN BOLT’S FINAL RACE
Photo: AMP Thrillist
Until the Men’s French Open Final, ensure that you watch the legend of Athletics, Usain Bolt run for the last time of his career on home soil at the Racers Grand Prix at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica at 10:10pm!
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Suga finally got to visit Mystic Thai in Montego Bay with her cousin a little over a month ago. The Restaurant has gotten rave reviews since it opened its doors about summer last year.
Our host and waitress were extremely polite and we were also greeted by the owner, Mrs. Kareena Mahbubani. She offered suggestions according to the pairings of the Curry with various meats and told us that their Green Thai Curry is a favourite amongst her diners. So of course I decided to have it.
Shrimp and Scallion Dumplings ($10USD)
We started off with Shrimp and Scallion Dumplings ($10USD) and Mushroom Basil Dumplings ($8USD). They take a little while because they are steamed and they came out steaming indeed. They were delicious with the accompanying sauces to add flavour of your liking, whether spicy, salty or sweet.
We then had Crispy Fried Okra infused with Lemongrass, which was surprisingly and absolutely delightful.
Crispy Fried Okra infused with Lemongrass
We moved on to our Mains of Chicken in Green Thai Curry ($12USD) and Duck in Red Thai Curry ($18USD), along with Rice and Stir Fried Veggies. I cannot forget to mention our Johnny Walker Mojitos from the Bar that were deliciously refreshing.
A. Chicken in Green Thai Curry ($12USD); B. Duck in Red Thai Curry ($18USD)
Note that I mentioned the Rice, because diners at Mystic Thai and some other Indian Restaurants may notice and wonder why they are charged for Rice separately. Other than wondering what else are you to eat with the meats, there is the comparison to Chinese Restaurants where you get Rice in abundance. Mystic Thai uses Jasmine rice that soaks up the flavour of the gravies and the quality of local rice which is less expensive and used by the Chinese Restaurants is totally different.
Diners at Mystic Thai also like to mix and match their sides, not necessarily ordering Rice. Quinoa for about $6USD is a healthy option as well as Steamed Vegetables. For now, a serving of Jasmine rice is an additional $3USD, but Mystic Thai will give diners the option to decide on their own soon by offering local rice with their Lunch Specials.
With regards to the Curries we chose, the popular Green Thai Curry is a blend of fresh Green Chillies, Galangal, Kaffir Lime Leaves, Lemongrass and Thai herbs. While the Red Thai Curry is the most versatile of the Thai Curries and is a blend of dried Red Chillies, Kaffir Lime Rind, Coriander Root and Cumin.
We enjoyed the exquisite blend of infused flavours that complemented each other so well. The good thing about dining at Mystic Thai is that they encourage Family style dining so the portion/serving sizes are appropriate for sharing and of course treats your tastebuds to so many different flavours. None of the flavours are overpowering either, as they balance each other out.
I was impressed with the attentiveness of the staff and overall commendable service. The owner, Kareena had such a warm and regal presence in the Restaurant, that I was propelled to give her a call for a follow up discussion about my intriguing experience.
Most of you may know that Kareena is no stranger to the business. She is also the owner of Mystic India in Whitter Village, Ironshore, Montego Bay. She studied Hotel Management in Mumbai, India and knew that she wanted to own a Restaurant from a very young age.
Kareena enjoys Thai cuisine so decided to open Mystic Thai in addition to Mystic India.
Indian cuisine is considered to be fattening so as a fitness enthusiast that endures the struggle of being a foodie, I came to understand that Thai Cuisine is one of the healthiest foods you can eat. This must explain why instead of feeling heavy and full as I often do after indulging in Indian cuisine, I felt satisfied but still light after our dinner at Mystic Thai.
What makes Thai Cuisine healthy?
Natural and fresh ingredients are paired with a variety of spices, herbs and vegetables. Examples of such are turmeric, galangal, coriander, lemongrass and fresh chillies that have immune-boosting and disease-fighting power.
At Mystic Thai, everything is made to order and all the spices, herbs and vegetables are prepped fresh every morning. Their gravies are made daily. Note that at least 16 different ingredients are used in every dish so there is a lot that goes into their preparation and she has quite an efficient team. Indian cuisine on the other hand uses five basic gravies that are made and stored.
The meats are usually grilled or put on the wok, which is the pot used for various methods of cooking Asian cuisine, whether it may be stir frying, boiling, steaming, roasting etc. The temperature on the wok is so high that the meats or vegetables only need a minute or two on it, resulting in all the nutrients being preserved.
With all healthiness aside, note that we still had dessert!
Chocolate Mousse
We closed dinner with a tasty Chocolate Mousse. I didn’t get the chance to have the Fruit and Nut Chocolate Naan from the Restaurant’s Indian dessert menu, so I will definitely be returning for that one, which seems to a favourite as well.
A few weeks ago, Mystic Thai received the award for ‘Best Ethnic Restaurant’ at The Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards along with a favourite of mine in Kingston, Nirvanna Indian Cuisine.
Congratulations to Kareena and her staff at Mystic Thai! Well deserved. It is definitely the place in Jamaica to get Authentic Thai and Asian cuisine. #sugaendorsed
Happy Diners at Mystic Thai: Tina Davis of the soon to be opened Cafe at the Martha Brae Bamboo Rafting attraction in Trelawny and cousin, Gabby from Suga Lifestyle
Mystic Thai (Asian & Thai Cuisine)
Location: B11 – Fairview Towne Centre Unit, Montego Bay
Ph: 876-633-6535
Website: http://www.mysticthaijamaica.com
Opening Hours: Mondays – Sundays @ 11:30am – 10pm
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Despite LeBron James putting up 39 points and Kyrie Irving, 38, it just was not enough to beat the Warriors team. The Warriors beat them at home 118-113 last night to go up 3-0 in the series.
It was a close game throughout and the 3rd Quarter belonged to Kyrie Irving. But the new addition to the Kardashians, Tristan Thompson contributed zero for the entire game and Kevin Love missed too many shots. J.R. Smith contributed a few crucial 3-point shots but it jus wasn’t enough to surpass the fast-paced Warriors team. The Cavs were worn out after the 3rd Quarter.
The Cavs led by as much as 7 points in the 4th Quarter and as much as 6 points in the late part of the 4th Quarter.
What happened?!
With a combined 77 points between LeBron and Kyrie, neither of them were clutch. Kyrie missed a crucial 3-pointer that was a lazy shot, while he should have passed it to J.R who had a hot hand and made himself free. LeBron missed a driving lay-up in the late 4th and had his 3-point shot attempt blocked by Andre Iguodala with 12s left. He made the offensive rebound then stepped out of bounds resulting in a turnover with 10s left.
So as much as LeBron James fans hate to admit it, he isn’t clutch and remains a ‘Stats King’.
Who was Clutch?!
KD! KD broke the Cavs heart with a 3-point hook, line and sinker over LeBron James who didn’t even contest the shot with 45.3s remaining. KD scored 31 points and Klay Thompson and Steph Curry came up big with a few clutch shots of their own with 30 and 26 points respectively.
The Coaching
Props to Steve Kerr for managing and switching up the line up several times as Draymond Green kept getting into foul trouble.
Will there be a Sweep?
Yes. The Cavs are far too demoralised. They can’t manage the firepower, pace and tenacity of the Warriors this year.
After the Warriors messed up 73 wins last year, they are going for a record 16 straight post-season wins with no mercy and a ringless, past MVP, Kevin Durant is at their helm.
Brooms for SALE.
Stay tuned!
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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How could we forget about KarolÃÂna PlÃÂÅ¡ková?! The rankings of players differ on the various websites, but according to the WTA Rankings, PlÃÂÅ¡ková is ranked closely behind Serena Williams at No. 3.
Photo: ESPN
The experts have favored Simona Halep (4) to win her first ever Grand Slam title at Roland Garros. Elina Svitolina (6) is also a popular pick. It turns out that Halep and Svitolina will meet in the Quarterfinals and the winner could play PlÃÂÅ¡ková in the Semis.
Caroline Wozniacki (12) is still in it. She has come close to winning a Grand Slam a few times. Her Quarterfinal was suspended due to rain at a set a piece between her and Ostapenko.ÂÂ
Timea Bacsinszky (30) who eliminated Venus Williams is also playing in the Quarterfinals today but her match was suspended as well versus Miladenovic. Bacsinszky was up a set.
Wozniacki and Bacsinszky could meet in the Semifinals.
Men’s Singles
Photo: SB Nation
Although Rafael Nadal (4) is not in his prime, the ‘King of Clay’ is still in it and has been playing well. Of course we know that he could meet Novak Djokovic (2) in the Semis. But Djokovic has the challenge of defeating Dominic Thiem (6) in the Quarterfinals first.
Marin Cilic (7) defeated Gaël Monfils and will play Stan Wawrinka (3) in the Quarterfinals.
World no. 1 Andy Murray will play Kei Nishikori (8) in the Quarterfinals.
Suga thinks we may have a Murray-Wawrinka Semifinal.
Stay tuned!
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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There will be a new French Open Winner for the Ladies this year, as Garbiñe Muguruza and Venus Williams were both eliminated yesterday.
Photo: ESPN
Venus was eliminated by Timea Bacsinszky of Switzerland for the second year in a row. Venus now looks forward to Wimbledon.
Men’s Singles
Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal continue on their collision course to the Semifinals. They both beat their opponents in straight sets to advance to the Quarterfinals.
World No. 1, Andy Murray advanced to the 4th round.
NBA FINALS – Basketball
The Warriors blew out the Cavs in Game 1, 113-91 on Thursday night.
Coach Steve Kerr returned to coach the Warriors in the Finals, starting with Game 2. The game seemed close up to Half Time with the Warriors only up by 3. After that, Kevin Durant (KD) was unstoppable with 33 points and Steph Curry stepped up with 32 points to lead the Warriors to a 132-113 win and a 2-0 lead in the series. Even Klay Thompson got to find his rhythm and contributed 22 points.
Cavs’ LeBron James who scored 29 points, 11 rebounds and 14 assists, tied Magic Johnson for the most NBA Finals triple doubles. But it wasn’t enough for his team to win, despite 27 points from Kevin Love. Kyrie Irving was only able to score 19 points.
KD’s defense to offense was sensational.
The Cavs are in the same position as last year’s Finals, but versus a team who now has KD. After last night you cannot help but think a sweep is possible, but Suga thinks the Cavs may win Game 3 at home and sees the Warriors winning the Finals 4-1.
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Serena Williams (2) is on maternity leave and watching from the stands this French Open. So who is still in it for the Ladies?!
Photo of Venus Williams: ESPN
Her sister, Venus of course! Can Venus Williams (10) win another Grand Slam before she retires? It is very possible. She has been on top of her game and already through to the 4th round.
Who will stand in her way?
The Women’s side of the draw is usually a toss up, especially without Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams.
Photo of Angelique Kerber: ESPN
World #1, Angelique Kerber has been inconsistent and was defeated in the 1st round in straight sets by Tsurenko Makarova. Makarova was defeated in the 2nd round.
Suga thinks Venus’ biggest threat is Defending Champ, Garbine Muguruza(4), who is also moving on to Round 4.
Photo of Simona Halep: ESPN
Simona Halep (3) was questionable to enter the French Open because she injured her ankle in a tournament before this, but she is already through to Round 3. I don’t think she is in it for the long run though.
Agnieszka Radwanska (9) and Elina Svitolina (5) are through to Round 3.
Rounding off the top 10 ladies, Svetlana Kiznetsova (8) is through to the 4th round.
If Venus doesn’t win the French, my money is on her to win Wimbledon.
Men’s Singles
Photo of Rafael Nadal (L) and Novak Djokovic (R): ESPN
Novak Djokovic (2) seems to be back in Championship shape and he is now being coached by one of the greats, Andre Agassi. He is already through to Round 4 but may be destined to clash with the clay court specialist and veteran, Rafael Nadal (4) who is also through to Round 4.
Photo of Andy Murray: ESPN
Andy Murray (1) says he is feeling good again but he is still not at his best just yet. He will play Juan del Potro (29) in Round 3.
Milos Raonic (5) and the Austrian, Dominic Thiem (6) are through to Round 4.
Kei Nishikori (8), Stan Wawrinka (3) and Marin Cilic (7) who round off the top 10 Men are in Round 3.
Gaël Monfils (15), who is usually very competitive is in Round 3 as well.
Suga thinks either Djoko or Rafa will take the French Open for the Men.
Remember the veteran, Roger Federer is sitting this one out to save his energy for the grass and hard courts. If he stays in top shape, I believe he will win Wimbledon. Do we have another vintage Finals coming up at Wimbledon for the Ladies and Men? Possible.
Stay tuned everyone!
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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If you are going to miss out on the Free Belly Dancing Class at Chai studios Tomorrow or would like a Weekend of Workouts to tune up that Summer body, check this out!
There will be a FREE Day of a mixture of classes at Afya this Sunday, June 4th.
Perhaps one of THE most anticipated NBA Finals starts Today! There is so much on the line. Here are Suga’s top 7 reasons:
1. LeBron James
LeBron James is chasing 4 rings and GOAT status. The debate continues. With 1 more Championship win, will he be on Kobe’s level, a little higher or will he finally pass MJ?
For Suga, he will level with Kobe with 1 more ring.
2. Kevin Durant (KD)
The legacy of KD is on the line and the question of if one of the most controversial trades in history will prove beneficial? Will KD finally get his 1st ring?
Suga thinks a little karma will follow him the first year in and it will be a gamble if he gets this great chance again.
3.Stephen Curry
Curry and LeBron could have been tied with two Championships. How? If Kyrie Irving missed that final game-winning 3-pointer in Game 7 last year and Curry made his 3-pointer.
‘Coulda Shoulda NEVER’
Curry will never have a debate going for his level being close to MJ but he still has a chance of being a defining player of his era, especially if he wins this Championship and 1 more to level the Championship wins of LeBron.
The Warriors are 22-3 in playoff games when Curry scores 30 or more. Will Curry show up in these Finals unlike last year? Last year he scored fewer than 20 points four times in the Finals. He can forget about the ring if that is the case this year.
4. David West
Was West’s jump from the San Antonio Spurs to the Warriors worth it? Should he have taken more money to be a star on a team that had no chance of being in the Finals?
West has said one of the reasons that makes it worth it is being in the locker room during halftime of a close game with Coach Gregg Popovich.
Suga thinks the overall experience he has gotten with both teams of excellent quality makes the ring chase worth it, even if his post season ends without one.
5. Klay ThompsonÂÂ
In these playoffs, Klay is 36% on 3s, far off from his career percentage.
Will the real Klay show up in these Finals when it counts? Will he even get a chance to get the ball enough to fall into his rhythm surrounded by so many all-star teammates?
6. Kevin Love
Kevin Love  has been showing up in these Playoffs, averaging a career-best of 17.2 points and 10.4 rebounds.
With him out of the Playoff series with a shoulder injury in 2015, he can say he has never lost one and he may be LeBron’s lucky charm.
7. Mike Brown
If Coach Mike Brown guides the Warriors to another Championship without Steve Kerr, it is likely he will be a top candidate for Coaching jobs that open up next year with another good or great team, or even replace Steve Kerr full time.
The NBA Finals will kick off TONIGHT at 8pm!
Here is the Schedule for the next 3 games. You know there will be more after that, so stay tuned!
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Have you ever been to 2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar on Strathairn Avenue off Ruthven Road? If not, now is your chance.
TGIF! Every Last Friday starting Today, 2wo A Seafood will have Jerked meat for you to eat! There will be locally sourced Rabbit, Chicken, Fish and Pork for affordable prices with Drink Specials.
I was treated to a tasty, complimentary Fish Tea at my first visit to 2wo A Seafood last December. It was a Thursday night when they usually have Live Performances.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Japanese duo, DJs Ackee and Saltfish who have been in Jamaica since 1994. They should give Rankin Pumpkin on Magnum Kings & Queens of Dancehall a few tips.
Gabby from Suga Lifestyle sandwiched between Japanese DJs Ackee & Saltfish, who called her their Dumpling. (Photo taken  – December 22, 2016)
Waitresses were pleasant and Drinks were very reasonable. For instance, a cue of White rum costed $800JMD, a cue of V/X, $1000JMD and a cue of Johnnie Walker Black, $1200JMD.
Although the Fish took a little while, as it is cooked to order, I recommend their Signature Jerk Fish ($1300JMD/lb), which had a tantalising flavour.
2wo A Seafood’s Signature Jerk Fish ($1300JMD/lb)
2wo A Seafood has cosy seating and a garden atmosphere with small palms and intricate lighting by the Entertainment area. Patrons also assemble by the bar that has both high stools and comfortable barrel-chair seating.
Give 2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar a visit tonight and Enjoy!
2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar
Location: 2A Strathairn Avenue (Off Ruthven Road)
Ph: 876-803-3290
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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