Courtesy of NY Post

• Two State Liquor Authority commissioners who voted to approve Ciprianis liquor licenses, despite their being convicted of tax evasion, were recently given State owned vehicles for unlimited use. Usually, only the SLA chairman get use of a car, and this perk was granted just weeks after the SLA let the Cipriani family stay in business. This disovery is another sign of some serious back rubbing to make sure the Cirpriani family kept their valuable venues in operation. [NY Post]
• Ever have doobie in your funk? What about smoke in your drink? Smoked ingredients are becoming a staple in bartenders recipe books, finding their way into cocktails as spirits, mixers, syrups or garnishes. Our favorite of the moment is a Smoky Rob Roy, which is a great comedown after a hearty meal.  [NY Times]
• For those still nursing a holiday hangover, head over to Times Square at 11:30 to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Bloody Mary. What a happy day! [DBTH staff]