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- Northern New York Newspapers
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- Ogdensburg
- Massena-Potsdam
- Lowville
- Carthage
- Malone
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MALONE - The Franklin County Board of Legislators finance committee has enough support from the full board to support a 5 percent tax levy increase for the 2014 tentative budget.
But some lawmakers want the county to keep the levy increase below the states tax cap –– a level officials have said is possible to reach.
Legislators Tim Burpoe, D-Saranac Lake, Sue Robideau, R-Brushton, Tim Lashomb, R-Malone, and Paul Maroun, R-Tupper Lake, supported the 5 percent increase during a budget work session Wednesday.
Legislators Tim Smith, D-Fort Covington, and Gordon Crossman, D-Malone, said they didnt support it, while board Chairman Billy Jones, D-Chateaugay, said he was going to remain open-minded.
Mr. Burpoe, the finance committee chairman, said Wednesday that he asked County Manager Tom Leitz, also the countys chief budget officer, to devise a list of scenarios showing what would happen if the board decided to raise the tax levy increase over the 2.99 percent state-mandated tax cap, which has already been calculated by Leitz as a possibility. Leitz came up with what the financial picture would look like if the board voted in favor of raising the increase to 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 percent.
Each increase would generate more funds than the county would need under the current spending plan.
The board ultimately decided to leave it to the next Board of Legislators, which will be seated in January, to decide what to do with the extra money. The incoming board will have three new members, as Mr. Burpoe opted not to seek re-election and Ms. Robideau and Mr. Lashomb were defeated in the November election.
The idea is to replenish our fund balance, Mr. Burpoe said.
A declining fund balance was one of the issues highlighted in a recent audit of county finances released by the state Comptrollers Office. The board was chastised for using the fund balance to offset its expenses.
The 5 percent levy increase was supported in the finance committee by Mr. Burpoe and Mr. Maroun, while Mr. Smith, the third member of the committee, opposed the idea. The 2-1 split meant the recommendation was forwarded to the full board for approval.
Mr. Smith said he has received backlash from constituents who want the county to stay below the cap, since officials have already proven that its possible.
Its hard to argue with that, he said.
Ms. Robideau spoke favorably of the 5 percent increase, noting that if the county does not go above the cap this year itcould mean a double-digit tax increase in 2015.
Mr. Lashomb said he was in favor of raising the levy increase, but was concerned about a companion proposal to borrow $1.25 million from the countys retirement stabilization fund. However, all of the budet scenarios studied –– including the original tentative budget with an 8.76 percent levy increase –– included borrowing $1 million from the stabilization fund, according to officials.
Mr. Leitz added that not borrowing the money would in itself increase the tax levy by 8 percentage points.
Mr. Crossman said he was concerned about raising tha tax levy because of people who are on fixed incomes and could be hurt financially by a larger tax increase.
Mr. Jones, who seemed undecided about whether to raise the levy, said, I think if we hold the line one more year, it proves we can do it.
A point of contention for the board was the suggestionthat those who pay county taxes do not use many, if any, of the services the county provides.
Mr. Burpoe noted that the county is the safety net, providing services for those who dont pay taxes because they dont own property. He noted that the Department of Social Services is the largest of county departments and employs the most people.
I think thats the rub, Mr. Jones said.
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Customer Service Performance Indicators
We continually monitor our service provision targets to ensure we maintain a high level of service to our customers. The following charts summarise our achievements to date within these targets.
We recognise that on occasions our service may not always meet your expectations. The introduction of the 3C's Policy (Compliments - Complaints - Comments) helps us to monitor customer feedback, both positive and negative and ensure corrective action is taken where necessary.
In addition to the above published performance measures, we also have a number of equally important targets which are designed to ensure that your interactions with our service are as efficient and timely as possible, these are:
- Registered within 24 hours of receipt - new applications, amended plans and further information.
- Responded to within 24 hours of receipt - emails and faxes received into our general mailbox.

subset: commoncrawl


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Economics provides the necessary insights for the individual to effectively understand the increasingly interrelated national and international economic world of today.
For information about studying Economics ...
Economics Clubs
- CCSF Economics and Political Science Ideas club: http://www.ccsf.edu/Organizations/Economics_Club/index.html
- www-sea.stanford.edu - Stanford economics Association (click, then scroll up to academic clubs).
- www.haas.berkeley.edu/groups/wfc/ - Hass Finance Club, UC Berkeley.
- www.econ.ucla.edu/bizecon/clubs - many Econ clubs at UCLA.
Economics-Related Links
- www.economist.com - British publication on the world of economics.
- www.businessweek.com - U.S. publication on business, finance, and economics.
- www.thenation.com - not just economics, ubt a good source of progressive thought (free articles).
- www.globalexchange.org - non-profit center for global economic awareness located in SF (check out the reality tour).
- www.dismalscientist.com - more economic information than you can read in a week.
- http://www.csuchico.edu/econ/old/links/econhumor.html - a little econ humor from our friends at Chico State.
- netec.wustl.edu/JokEc.html - more econ humor from Washington University at St. Louis.


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After seven years at sea, the Crafton Five are coming ashore, but slowly. They are in no hurry to shed the awe they feel about what they have accomplished: an 83-month, 30,000-mile circumnavigation of both the globe and the roughest years of their kids' childhoods.
"We just seemed to get along better the longer we were out there," marvels Tom, who turned 50 in May as they crept through the doldrums of the equatorial Atlantic. "The day we moved onto the boat, the sibling rivalry stopped. I don't think they ever complained, not once."
It took everything the Craftons had to keep afloat for most of the trip, but that was largely the point. After achieving two-career success… the couple found that big-house status and plenty of everything left them feeling not much of anything, save frustration and want. "We looked at each other and said, 'What the hell are we doing?' " Tom says. It took six months to liquidate everything.
Continue reading about the Crafton family and view a timeline, slideshow and flipbook of their adventures at sea at the link above.


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My jihad is an ad campaign for Islam. It seeks to soften the rough edges of jihad into something more palatable. Like the user-submitted ad below with posies and butterflies:
This new #MyJihad outreach is tremendously encouraging. Suddenly, I don't need to worry about trifles like this. Guess I can cancel my Generation Identity ID card, call the EDL and tell them I don't really need that red-and-white hockey mask I ordered from 'em. Sigh, posies and butterflies. It has a Gilbert and Sullivan get-back-to-nature ring to it.


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Check out festivals and events in December across the state.
Featured destination: Key West
Dec. 3-20: Key West Holida Fest, Key West. Live holiday music, games for the kids, free cookies and eggnog, holiday cheer and a chance for photos with Santa highlight this event. Created as a gift to the community, the gala is produced by the Key West Bight Preservation Association and tenants of the Key West Bight. 305-304-2633. www.keywestchristmas.org
TBA: Historic Lighted Inn Tours, Key West. Discover the history and holiday spirit of Key West by touring beautifully decorated historic inns. The tours include creative offerings by local chefs, artists, writers and performers. 305-295-1334. keywestinns.com
Dec. 11: Schooner Wharf Bar Annual Lighted Boat Parade, Key West. Lighted and decorated vessels from rowboats to tall ships proceed around Key West's Historic Seaport and harbor areas. Parade is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Holiday revelers can watch and applaud from bars, restaurants and resorts in and around the Historic Seaport. Call 305-292-3302. www.schoonerwharf.com
TBA: Christmas on the Sheriff's Animal Farm, Key West. Kids and adults can visit the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Animal Farm and get a photo taken with Santa. The farm is situated at the county's detention center just outside Key West at 5501 College Road. This event is free and open to the public. 1-3 p.m. Call 305-293-7300. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents
TBA: Pet Pictures With Santa, Key West. Pets and kids get a holiday photo with Santa to help support the Boys & Girls Club of Key West. Look for Santa at the Christmas tree at the foot of William Street on the Harbor Walk of Lights. 5:30-8 p.m. $10. keywestchristmas.org.
TBA: Violins in Motion Holiday Concert, Key West. A musical performance on the plaza at Green and Elizabeth Streets under the decorated Lobster Trap Tree on the Harbor Walk of Lights. 6-8 p.m. Free. keywestchristmas.org.
TBA: Holiday Classic Car Show, Key West. Classic cars will be on the plaza at Margaret Street near the decorated Lobster Trap Tree on the Harbor Walk of Lights. Businesses will be open around the show for shopping, food and beverages. noon-4 p.m. Free. keywestchristmas.org.
Dec. 27–28: Key West House & Garden Tours, Key West. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, the annual self-guided tours showcase festively dressed Key West homes and gardens. December tours are from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., both evenings. Tickets are $30 and proceeds benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation's museums, collection and education, grant and scholarship programs. Call 305-294-9501. oirf.orgTBA: Key West Dachshund Walk, Key West. About 200 dachshunds and their owners take a New Year's Eve stroll through the island's downtown. The annual Key West Dachshund Walk, set for noon Dec. 31, provides an informal, family-friendly prelude to nighttime New Year's Eve revelry. Spectators can watch the fun and meet the canine participants on Fleming Street between Whitehead and Duval streets.
email: firstname.lastname@example.com. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents
Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Drop Celebrations, Key West. The Southernmost City celebrates with a conch shell drop at Sloppy Joe's Bar; a descending 6-foot red high heel shoe carrying a drag queen at the Bourbon Street Pub/New Orleans House complex; and a pirate wench descending from a tall ship mast in the island city's Historic Seaport. Call 305-294-5717. sloppyjoes.com
This list is organized by region.
Central Florida (including Orlando, Kissimmee, Daytona Beach, Sanford, the Space Coast, Lakeland/Polk and Lake County)
Through Dec. 30: Holidays Around the World, Lake Buena Vista. This Epcot tradition features storytellers, a daily character tree-lighting ceremony and a stunning display of snow-white lights. The moving Candlelight Processional, a favorite of all ages, includes celebrity guest narrators, accompanied by a massed choir and orchestra for a retelling of the Christmas story. 407-939-5277. disneyworld.disney.go.com
Through Dec. 20: Space Coast Light Fest, Melbourne. The Space Coast Lightfest is a holiday themed drive-through event held at Wickham Park. It is a family oriented celebration featuring shimmering lights and dazzling animated displays drawing more than 15,000 vehicles annually. 2785 Leisure Way, Melbourne 32935. 321-576-7556. www.spacecoastlightfest.com
Through Dec. 31: Now Snowing Nightly, Celebration. Celebration Town Center hosts nightly snow falls at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m., along with photos with Santa, strolling holiday carolers, an ice rink, horse-drawn carriages and special events. 407-566-4007. celebrationtowncenter.com
Through Jan. 3, 2016: ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando. With more than two million twinkling lights and a 54-foot tall Christmas tree, ICE! is back featuring the magical adventure that is 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. New as of last year is an eight-lane tubing hill covered in snow. Tickets range between $14.99 and $29.99. There are also passes and packages available. Gaylord Palms, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-4423. ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com
TBA: Light Up UCF!, Orlando. Check out UCF's holiday event offering 50 nights of music, lights and ice, where you can skate at an outdoor ice rink outside of the UCF arena, along with carnival rides and special holiday events. The Holiday Light Show, featuring a light snowfall, will begin at 6 p.m. daily and continue hourly through the night. Prices vary. lightupucf.com.
TBA: Leu's Holiday House, Orlando. The Leu House Museum's 11-room estate will be adorned with Christmas trees, holiday dioramas and festive decorations throughout the home. 30-minute tours. Adults $10. Children 5-17 $3. 4 and under free. 407-246-2620. www.leugardens.org
TBA: 'Where are You Christmas' by Just Us Orlando Productions, Mount Dora. Join Just Us Orlando Productions at the West Oaks Mall in Ocoee for a fabulous celebration of Christmas. For more information call 407-516-6011. www.justusorlando.com
Dec. 3: Christmas in the Park, Winter Park. The Morse Museum helps launch the holiday season in Winter Park when it lights up Tiffany windows in Central Park and presents the Bach Festival Choir in concert. This December is the 36th annual celebration of Christmas in the Park. This free event is at Central Park from 6:15 p.m. to 8 p.m. www.morsemuseum.org
Dec. 4: Christmas in the Square, Sanford. The City of Sanford celebration will include live entertainment, a visit with Santa, tree lighting ceremony, face painting and balloon artists. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Free. Magnolia Square, 200 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford, 32771. 407-688-5120. www.sanfordfl.gov
Dec. 4: Downtown DeLand Merchant Holiday Open House, DeLand. Downtown DeLand restaurants and shops will offer holiday discounts and discounts. Santa will be available for pictures in Pioneer Park. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. mainstreetdeland.org
Dec. 4: Light Up Flagler, New Smyrna Beach. From 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m. Annual lighting up festivity of Flagler Avenue and Holiday Open House. The free event marks the beginning of the holiday season in Flagler County. Expect street closures from Peninsula Drive East to Buenos Aires Street. nsbfla.com
Dec. 5: Sanford Historic Trust Tour of Homes, Sanford. The holiday home tour has become a tradition in Sanford. The Candlelight Tour is a walking tour where guests stroll through historic homes, enjoy live music and sample appetizers from local restaurants. Dec. 5 from 4 p.m. - 9: p.m. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 day of. Tour begins at 801 Palmetto Ave, Sanford. sanfordhistorictrust.org
TBA: Norwood's Holiday Food and Wine Festival, New Smyrna Beach. From 7-10 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 5, the Wine de Elegance. $75 Advance. From 1-4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.: The main event, the Grand Tasting -- Grab your commemorative wine glass & enjoy more than 500 wines from around the world. Plus great food and deserts and entertainment. $65 Advance. From 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7:Jazz Brunch -- Enjoy all you can eat brunch, plus all you can drink Bloody Mary Bar, Mimosa's and Red or White Sangria, plus jazz entertainment. $40 Advance. $45 Day of the event. www.norwoodswinefestival.com
Dec. 4 - 6: Festivals of Speed, Orlando. A luxury car event based at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes with VIP dinners. Festivals of Speed display of exotics is on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vehicles are placed for display on the perfectly manicured grounds of this magnificent property. Attendees will enjoy on-site cafes serving the finest culinary offerings, VIP cafes, smooth jazz in the gardens, wine tastings, cigar smokes, luxury lifestyle displays, Fashion shows and more. Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, 32837. www.festivalsofspeed.com
TBA: Holiday Lights Orlando, Orlando. With tree lighting and live music. 4-10 p.m. Free. Lake Eola Amphitheater, 101 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL, 32801. 407-246-2121. www.cityoforlando.net/holiday
Dec. 5: 62nd annual Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade, Winter Park. The longest running parade in Central Florida. Free parade through downtown Winter Park along Park Avenue at 9 a.m. Before and during the parade, Leadership Winter Park will host their annual Pancake Breakfast at the Central Park stage from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Free. 407-644-8281. winterpark.org
TBA: Holiday Tree Lighting, Oviedo. Experience the Holiday Tree Lighting at the Lawton House in Oviedo. There will be free refreshments, local music performers, and a visit from Santa. Sponsored by the Oviedo Historical Society. 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. Lawton House, 200 W. Broadway St., Oviedo, FL, 32765. 407-971-5612. www.oviedohs.com
Dec. 5: Orlando Pottery Festival, Orlando. With live music and vendors. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. At the City of Orlando Downtown Recreation Complex, 363 N. Parramore Ave. www.orlandopotteryfestival.org
Dec. 5: Lighted Boat Parade, Mount Dora. This annual parade is sure be enjoyed by all ages as colorful lighted boats glide over Lake Dora. If you are interested in participating in the parade, contact The Mount Dora Marina at 352-383-3150. 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Free. Downtown Mount Dora. www.mountdorachristmas.com
Dec. 5: Christmas Parade, Mount Dora. See a beautiful traditional holiday parade. 11 a.m. in downtown Mount Dora. Free. 352-735-9629. www.mountdorachristmas.com
Dec. 5: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. The Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts will have its First Saturday Music Jam from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event features music workshops on a variety of instruments. The music workshops are free, but there is an admission price for the Pioneer Settlement. $6 for adults and $4 for children 6-12 years old. There will be food available for purchase. The Pioneer Settlement is located just West of the intersection of US HWY 40 and SR 17. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org
Dec. 5: New Smyrna Beach Christmas parade, New Smyrna Beach. The Christmas Parade Land gets under way at 4 p.m. with floats and more floats, traditional marching bands, dance teams and, of course, Santa! The Christmas Boat Parade will be Dec. 12 along the Intracoastal Waterway and will feature dazzling boats decked in holiday lights, each vying for a prize. On Flagler Avenue. nsbfla.com
Dec. 5: Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert, Lake Wales. Enjoy the sounds of the season with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon as they perform together during one of Central Florida's favorite outdoor concerts. Families and friends are encouraged to prepare themed picnics and experience a magical evening as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain. Begins at 6 p.m. $20 per person; $8 per child ages 5-12 if you buy tickets in advance. Children under 5 free. Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales 33853. 863-676-1408. For details, visit www.boktowergardens.org/Christmas.
TBA: Jaycee's Christmas Parade, DeLand. 66th annual Christmas parade. 5:30 p.m. The parade runs South on Woodland Blvd to Hubbard Ave. delandchristmasparade.org
Dec. 5: Riverfront Festival of the Season, Port Orange. Enjoy local dance group performances, music, food, entertainment, and photos with Santa. The perfect place to watch the Halifax River Yacht Club's Christmas Boat Parade. 386-238-4001 www.daytonabeach.com
TBA: Pop Warner Super Bowl, Orlando. Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. brings its Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer and Dance Championships to Walt Disney World Resort. More than 60 teams from across the country compete in four age groups from 8 to 14 on the fields of the 220-acre Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Spectator admission is required for all events. Length-of-Event passes (LOE) allow for admission to all days of the event. Daily admission is $16 for 10 and older, $11 ages 3-9. LOE admission is $48 for 10 and older and $33 ages 3-9. 2 and under are free. 407-824-4321. www.popwarnersb.com/14superbowl/pop.asp
Dec. 5-Jan. 2: Macy's Holiday Parade at Universal Studios, Orlando. The world's most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios, featuring some of the most popular balloons and floats from the famous Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The excitement and pageantry of the parade, complete with a festive tree lighting ceremony by Santa Claus himself, is exhibited each day of the holiday season through the New Year. Included in regular park admission. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com
Dec. 5-Jan. 2: Grinchmas at Universal's Islands of Adventure, Orlando. This annual holiday celebration is based on the beloved Dr. Seuss tale and Universal Pictures' and Imagine Entertainment's Academy Award-winning blockbuster hit, "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure is transformed into a bah-humbug haven by the Grinch. The entire Seussian-themed island is colorfully decorated for the season and guests are invited to meet the Grinch in his lair, which is outfitted with authentic movie props and gadgets. Grinch fans enjoy a live, musical stage show that re-tells the world-famous story of the grumpy Grinch. Included in regular park admission. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com
TBA: Santa PAWS, Mount Dora. 11 a.m. to 2p.m. Elizabeth Evans Park at the Mount Dora Village Market. Discover our Pet Friendly Town & WIN fabulous prizes and help local pet charities! www.mountdorachristmas.com/events.shtml
Dec. 12: Winter Park Boat Parade & Water Ski Show, Winter Park. Watch the Winter Park Boat Parade & Water Ski Show at the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens. In conjunction with the Rotary club of Winter Park, the Polasek hosts its annual Winter Park Boat Parade viewed from the lush Museum grounds on the shore of Lake Osceola. Free. 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park, FL, 32789. 407-647-6294. www.polasek.org
Dec. 12 : Home for the Holidays Nighttime Parade, Ormond Beach. Parade starts at 6:30 p.m. at Division Ave. and US 1, goes north to Granada Blvd., turns east on Granada Blvd. to Beach Street, turns south on Beach Street ending in front of City Hall at the review area. 386-676-3241. www.ormondbeach.org
Dec. 12: Christmas in the Park with Snow, Mount Dora. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Snow, sledding, Santa, food and games. Donnelly Park. www.mountdorachristmas.com
Dec. 12: Parade of Lights, Sanford. Illuminated floats light up Sanford's First Street at this annual event. Marching bands, civic groups and businesses take part in this holiday tradition. Santa will make an appearance. 6p.m. to 8 p.m. Free. 407-688-5120. www.sanfordfl.gov
Dec. 12-13: Wine & Chocolate Festival, Clermont. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wine and Chocolate is the theme for this very special event at this seasonal time of year. Local artists and crafters are invited to display their work. Enjoy live music by incredible bands on an outdoor stage throughout the entire weekend. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks and a variety of food will be available for purchase, along with complimentary winery tours and tasting. 1-800-768-WINE www.lakeridgewinery.com
Dec. 12: Holiday Tour of Homes, Ormond Beach. Once a year some of the most prestigious homes in Ormond Beach open their doors to allow the public to view them from the inside and out. Admission is $25, $22 for OBHS members. 386-677-7005.www.ormondhistory.org
TBA: Harmony Winter Festival, Harmony. Annual event features 30 tons of snow for some ample snow slides, crafts, ice cream eating competition, gingerbread house competition, ice frozen T-shirt competition, candy cane hunt, food and more. The carnival runs from 4 p.m.- 9 p.m. Free. eventsatharmony.com
TBA: Candlelight Tours of Lilian Place, Daytona Beach. Wassail punch and cookies served. Admission price is $5. 5-8 p.m. Lilian Place, 111 Silver Beach Blvd., Daytona Beach. 386-299-4974. www.heritagepreservationtrust.org
Dec. 17-23: The Nutcracker, Orlando. The Orlando Ballet rings in the holiday season with visions of sugarplum fairies, the Snow King and more during its annual presentation of The Nutcracker on Dec. 17-23. Hosted at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, The Nutcracker is a favorite among ballet patrons and newcomers alike. For information, visit www.orlandoballet.org
Dec. 19: Cruisin' Downtown DeLand Classic Car Show, DeLand. Every 3rd Saturday of the month. East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Classic cars & rods line East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Live DJ, giveaways, shopping and dining. 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Free. 386-738-0649. www.MainStreetDeLand.org
Dec. 19: Snow Fest, Maitland. RDV Sportsplex Ice Den is throwing its annual Snow Fest from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with ice skating, bounce houses, live DJs, face painting, more than 20 tons of snow for a play area and kid's snow slide and more. Cost is $16 for children ages 3-17 and $10 for adults. 407-916-2550. www.mvpsportsclubs.com
TBA: Fourth Fridays Art Walk, Sanford. A juried art show with exhibits in the Historic Sanford Welcome Center with a walking tour of the art venues and live music. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Sanford, 230 East First Street, Sanford, FL, 32771. Free. The theme for December is "Animals." 407-323-2774. www.sanfordartwalk.com
TBA: Art Walk on Flagler, New Smyrna Beach. Held on the fourth Saturday each month, Flagler Avenue livens up with entertainment and wine tastings at participating venues. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (wine walk 1-7 p.m.). Free ($25 for wine walk). Flagler Avenue, 100 Flagler Ave., New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
TBA: 4th Fridays in Artisan Alley & DeLand Art Walk, DeLand. Gather with friends every fourth Friday of the month at Artisan Alley and also enjoy the DeLand Art Walk. DeLand Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the Historic Downtown area. Enjoy music, food, drinks, arts, crafts and more. Art galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants and boutiques host artists within their businesses on the fourth Friday of every month, rain or shine. Look for an official Art Walk banner in the front of each stop to identify the participating venues. Choose your own route, or begin from Museum of Florida Art. Downtown, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand FL 32720. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 386-738-0649. delandartwalk.com
Dec. 29: Russell Athletic Bowl, Orlando. The bowl features teams from the ACC and Big Ten conferences, and has existed as the Champs Sports Bowl through 2011 and has been taking place for more than 15 years. It is played in the Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando. Game starts at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $47 with packages available at varying rates.Russell Athletic Bowl hospitality can include lounge seating, open bars, upscale food and live entertainment. 407-423-2476. russellathleticbowl.com
TBA: Orlando Citrus Parade, Orlando. The Citrus Parade, held at 10 a.m. in downtown Orlando, features signature citrus floats made from more than 100,000 grapefruit, oranges and tangerines. The entries include marching bands from across the country. The parade attracts more than 60,000 spectators and an international audience of millions through its television syndication in 150 markets in the United States and Canada. Admission is free. 407-423-2476. www.floridacitrusparade.com
Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Celebration, New Smyrna Beach. There will be a New Year's Eve Party on Flagler Avenue. Fireworks will be at 9 p.m. at the corner of Cooper Street and Flagler Avenue. www.partyonflagler.com
Tampa Bay-Sarasota (including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Tarpon Springs and Homosassa)
Dec. 4: Tampa's Tree Lighting Ceremony, Tampa. Attend Tampa's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 4 in beautiful Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with the dynamic sounds of the Late Night Brass. Magic 94.9 will be on hand for the Secret Santa Giveaway. Admission is free, but guests are asked to bring a teddy bear that will be donated to children at local hospitals. www.tampagov.net
Dec. 4-5: Tampa's Christmas Market, Tampa. Start your holiday shopping at Tampa's outdoor Christmas Market. Tampa's Christmas Market is held in conjunction with Tampa's Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Fest at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Dec. 4, 5-9 p.m. and Dec. 5 12-4 p.m. friendsoftamparec.org
Dec. 4-6: Sarasota Craft Show, Sarasota. Features highly regarded artists from across the nation, plus entertainment and demonstrations by artists. At Robarts Arena. Admission $11 one day, or $13 come-and-go weekend pass; seniors $10; students $6; children under 10 free. 845-355- 2400, www.sarasotacraftshow.com
Dec. 5: Santa Fest 2015, Tampa. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Free photos with Santa Claus, continuous holiday entertainment, make-n-take holiday crafts, hands-on games and Christmas Market. Ice skating is $5 per person. The Rough Rider's Holiday Parade will begin at 11 a.m. The parade will begin at Morgan Street and Madison Street travel west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turn north and end at Ashley Drive and Cass Street. Best viewing is along Madison Street. www.tampagov.net
Dec. 12: BrainDeer 5K, Tampa. The Tampa Bay community will once again come together to support a cure for cancer. The 5K run and walk in Tampa will have participants running along part of a paved 2.2-mile loop drive in the middle of the park. In addition to the running event a Survivor Walk will take participants approximately 1 mile on our Rapids Trail. Advanced registration required. www.milesforhope.org
Dec. 7, Dec. 13-15, 17-23, 26-30: Wild Wonderland at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa. 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. It's going to be brrrr-illiant! Meet Santa and his merry mammals – REAL REINDEER, only at the Zoo. More merriment awaits with charming animated displays, a million twinkling lights, free Zoo rides and traditional holiday treats. Don't miss this Tampa tradition, a whimsical world of holiday magic at the Zoo. Tickets on sale soon. 813-935-8552. lowryparkzoo.com
Dec. 11-12: Candlelight Tours of Fort Foster, Tampa. Guests follow a lantern-lit trail through the military Fort, where they encounter living history scenarios. Traveling musicians far from home play folk music to liven up the evening and guests enjoy warm cider & cookies from the ladies from Ft. Brooke/Tampa. Seminole Natives gather across the bridge on the Hillsborough River where they will lead you down a lantern-lit trail to visit a native encampment where you will hear stories of native life in early Florida. A battle reenactments will happen on Friday, Dec. 11 and Saturday, Dec. 12 after 8 p.m. Public admission is a $5 donation to Hillsborough River State Park Preservation Society per person, people ages 12 and under are free. 813-987-6771 www.floridastateparks.org/hillsboroughriver/Events.cfm
TBA: Rotary Club Christmas Street Parade, New Port Richey. Family-friendly activities, entertainment, the Rotary Club Christmas Street Parade, and holiday lights are part of the fun during the annual Main Street Holidays in historic downtown New Port Richey on Dec. 12-14. For information, visit www.nprmainstreet.com/events/. www.cityofnewportrichey.org
Dec. 12: Hillsborough River Half & Quarter Marathon, Hillsborough River State Park. Hillsborough River State Park. Hillsborough River State Park 15402 U.S. 301 North Thonotosassa, FL 33592. Advance registration required. Half Marathon - $57. Quarter Marathon - $42. 727-422-1956. www.active.com
Dec. 12: Brooksville Christmas Parade, Brooksville. The annual Brooksville Christmas Parade sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Brooksville will be held Saturday, Dec. 12. 9 a.m. to noon. www.ci.brooksville.fl.us
TBA: Holiday Arts & Craft, Unique Gift Show, Sarasota. Attention, holiday shoppers! If your travels take you to Sarasota, you may wish to check out the Sixth Annual Holiday Arts & Craft, Unique Gift Show on Dec. 13-14. Admission is free. The show is at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trail. For details, visit sunsetboulevardpromotions.com.
TBA: Winter Waterland, Weeki Wachee State Park. At Weeki Wachee State Park. From 6-10 p.m., a special holiday themed mermaid show performed at the Riverside Theater by the Wildlife Department with other activities including Santa Claus, kids games and activities, lots of holiday lights and music. 352-592-5656. www.friendsofweekiwachee.com
Dec. 18-20: Sarasota Snow Fest, Sarasota. One of the few places in Florida to play in the snow, and this one has a nice three-day run. It offers 70 tons of snow for open play areas and four giant snow slides, reindeer (really pony) rides, bounce houses, visits with Santa and ice-skating rink, caroling, food and drink vendors and entertainment. Free with donation. Payne Park. 276 South School Avenue, Sarasota. snowfestsarasota.com
Dec. 19-24, 26: Christmas Celebration of Lights, Homosassa. Enjoy Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park decked out for the holidays with thousands of twinkling lights and Christmas decorations. Come and enjoy Sebastian's Winter Wonderland, a spectacular synchronized light and sound show. A variety of entertainment is scheduled and refreshments will be available. Requested donation of $3 adults, $1 children. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/Events.cfm
Dec. 20-21: Holiday of the Arts, St. Petersburg. Holiday of the Arts is a juried, fine arts event
displaying original handcrafted work by some 90 artists on Dec. 20-21. Admission is free. Event hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday at South Straub Park at 198 Bayshore Drive Northeast in downtown St. Petersburg. For information, visit www.paragonartevents.com.
Southwest Florida (including Naples, Fort Myers, Venice, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda)
Through Dec. 31: Festival of Lights at Fishermen's Village, Punta Gorda. Festival of Lights at Fishermen's Village, Punta Gorda. Lighting of the Village kicks off on Nov. 15. View more than one million lights and themed decorations through the Village daily through Dec. 31st. Music, food and vists with Santa. 941-639-8721. www.fishville.com
Through Jan. 2: Holiday Nights at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers. This annual event showcases the lights and seasonal decorations that fill 20 acres of gardens, the recently restored Edison buildings, and the historic homes on both Estates. During Holidays at the Estates the homes will be open nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $20 for adults 13 and over. $1 for kids 6-12. 5 and under free. 239-334-7419. http://www.edisonfordwinterestates.org
Dec. 4-31: Annual Christmas Light Canal Tours, Punta Gorda. In this picturesque area on Florida's Southwest Gulf Coast, residents deck the decks, docks, seawalls, ship's masts, palm trees, anything and everything that can be festooned with holiday lights, and then rejoice in the kaleidoscope of colorful displays. By lighted boat, or by bicycle, tours take in 50-foot Christmas trees, snowmen, Santa's sleighs, and even more elaborate holiday vignettes as residents revel in this holiday tradition with brilliant light displays on decks, lanais and along the waterways. Cruise the canals of Punta Gorda to experience this family tradition with spectacular illumination of community holiday spirit. King Fisher Fleet at Fishermen's Village. Adults $16, children 3-11 $8. Call for reservations. 941-639-0969. www.kingfisherfleet.com/christmas-cruises
Dec. 5-6: Luminary Festival, Sanibel and Captiva. More than three miles of luminary candles line the main roads on Sanibel on Dec. 5 and Captiva on Dec. 6, creating a glowing way to usher in the holidays. Businesses decorate their stores, sponsor entertainment and provide free refreshments, Santa arrives at the Sanibel Community House with candy for kids. Free; 5:30-9 p.m. both nights. www.sanibel-captiva.org
Dec. 6: Snowfest, Naples. More than 100 tons of snow is the star of this annual community event in southwest Florida. There will be snow mountains to climb, tobaggan and snow skiing hills as well as ice skating rink, full-scale carnival, arts and crafts, petting zoo, pony rides and more. More than 15,000 people attend the event each year. Snow is cold, so remember to bring gloves or mittens, even if it's 80 degrees out. Cost is $2 per person. 3 and under are free. The festival is at Golden Gate Community Center. 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, Fl 34116. 239.252.4180. Event hours vary. snowfestnaples.com
Dec. 6: Fort Myers Beach Boat Parade, Fort Myers Beach. Come enjoy some Christmas spirit at the Annual Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade! Last year there were nearly 30 boats participating and this year promises to be even more exciting. The parade will pass by such establishments as Big Game Waterfront Grill, Parrot Key Caribbean Grill, Matanzas, Nervous Nellies, Doc Fords and Bonita Bills where you can kick back and enjoy the fun. See more at: 239-454-7500. www.fortmyersbeach.org
Dec. 6: Christmas Boat Parade, Venice. Parade of decorated boats, from Albee Road to South Bridge. Always held on the first Saturday of December at 6p.m.; rain date the next day. 941-809-8100, 207-1201. venicechristmasboatparade.com
Dec. 6-7: Winter Fine Arts Festival, Englewood. The Winter Fine Arts Festival will once again be presented by Olde Englewood Village Association on December 6th and 7th, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day on West Dearborn Street in charming "Olde Englewood Village." oldeenglewood.com
Dec. 8-9, 15-16: Christmas Rail-Boat Trips, Fort Myers. Christmas Rail-Boat Trips offer the opportunity to set sail for a holiday light extravaganza. Participants enjoy soup and salad going north to Punta Gorda for a boat tour through Punta Gorda Isles. Then dig into the entrée and dessert on the way back to Fort Myers. The train departs on Dec. 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $89 each. For details, visit semgulf.com.
Dec. 12-13: Florida's Creative Coast Weekend, Pine Island. On the second weekend each month November-April, Pine Island businesses offer themed artistic events. Galleries and shops are open extended hours on Friday, many offering special openings. Take a cooking class, or listen to live music. Other special events and workshops are planned at individual shops on Saturday and Sunday. www.pineislandchamber.org
Dec. 13, 15, 17: Holiday Pops Concerts, Fort Myers The Southwest Florida Symphony presents Holiday Pops Concerts at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 15 and at 8 p.m. on Dec. 13 and 17. The Dec. 15 event takes place at the Village Church at Shell Point Village and the Dec. 13 an 17 concerts are presented at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. Ticket prices start at $22. For details, visit www.swflso.org.
Dec. 14: 25th Annual Peace River Lighted Boat Parade, Punta Gorda. The festive display of lights and gorgeous reflections on the water make this annual event a definite must see. At Charlotte Harbor, begins at dusk around 6 p.m. Free. www.puntagordachamber.com
Dec. 17-21: The Christmas Spectacular, Cape Coral. The Christmas Spectacular features pop music of the season, holiday songs and Santa Claus at Cultural Park Theater on Dec. 17-21. Tickets are $19 for adults, $10 for children under 12. The theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Boulevard. For information, visit culturalparktheater.com.
Dec. 18: Downtown Gallery Walk, Punta Gorda. Held monthly on the third Thursday, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Visit any of the downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries for your game card. As always, there will be live entertainment, food and drink samplings, art, beauty and health demonstrations, a free trolley,and an evening of fun. Free; free parking. 941-743-1900. www.puntagordashopping.com
Dec. 27-28: The Fourth Annual Coconut Point New Year's Weekend Art Festival, Bonita Springs/Estero. The Fourth Annual Coconut Point New Year's Weekend Art Festival features fine art and music on Dec. 27-28. Event hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is free. For information, visit www.artfestival.com.
Dec. 31: Downtown Countdown, Fort Myers. Ring in the New Year downtown at the party with the widest variety of entertainment and dining choices. The event starts at 8 p.m. with live entertainment and a ball-drop at midnight. Retail shops and restaurants remain open during the evening. To make downtown's entertainment district the utmost in pedestrian friendly, sections of Hendry, Main, Broadway, Jackson and Bay streets will be closed to vehicular traffic that night. Parking garages will be attended 6:45 p.m.-3 a.m. Free admission. 239-321-7100. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com
South Florida and the Keys (including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Key Largo, Key West and the Treasure Coast)
Dec. 4-21: Key West 'Bight' Before Christmas, Key West. Live holiday music, games for the kids, free cookies and eggnog, holiday cheer and a chance for photos with Santa highlight this event. Created as a gift to the community, the gala is produced by the Key West Bight Preservation Association and tenants of the Key West Bight. 305-304-2633. www.keywestchristmas.org
Dec. 2-7: Red Dot Fair, Miami. Art show featuring more than 50 international, modern contemporary art dealers from around the world. Painting, photography, sculpture and more. Opening reception Dec. 2, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. 11a.m.-5 p.m. on Dec. 3, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Dec. 5-6, 11a.m.-6p.m. on Dec. 7. $15 day pass. $25 weeklong pass. 3011 NE 1ST Avenue in Midtown Miami. 917-273-8621. www.reddotfair.com
Dec. 4-7: Pirates in Paradise, Key West. Ahoy mates! The Last Key sets the scene for the Pirates in Paradise fest on Dec. 4-7. Among the various activities on the agenda are a pirate sail and attack, a walk-the-plank championship and a pint-sized pirate contest (for kids under 12). Some activities have fees, others like the pint-sized pirate costume contest and walk-the-plank championship, are free. For information, visit www.piratesinparadise.com.
Dec. 4-7: Art Basel Miami Beach, Miami Beach. This international art show, American sister event of Art Basel in Switzerland, is recognized as the most important annual art show of its kind in America. The annual edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach will feature more than 250 leading galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa, showcasing works by more than 2,000 artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. www.artbasel.com
Dec. 5: 10th Annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival, Islamorda. Holiday parade and festival featuring a 35-foot, snow-blowing community tree and 20 tons of snow for fun on snow mountain. Holiday Gift bazaar, food and fun for the entire family. 4-10 p.m. 305-664-4503. islamoradachamber.com
Dec. 5-7: Fort Taylor Pyrate Invasion, Key West. At Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, experience the golden age of piracy through living history demonstrations, pirate encampments and live battles. Learn about life at sea from 17th century buccaneers and 19th century wreckers. Live music and activities for children. Free event with park admission. Something fun for the whole family. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.forttaylorpyrates.com or http://www.floridastateparks.org/forttaylor
Dec. 5-11: Miami Short Film Festival, Miami. MSFF's goal year after year is to motivate directors, screenwriters, actors and producers to make their films and share them with fellow film makers and industry professionals. The ultimate goal is to bring exposure to independent up-and-coming filmmakers. As a result, the festival has showcased over 700 high-quality films from around the world representing more than 26 countries. Venues vary. www.miamishortfilmfestival.com
Dec. 5 - Jan. 1: Visit the Famous 100ft Christmas Tree, Boynton Beach. Open daily 10a.m.-10 p.m. Tree opens 1p.m. Christmas Day and New Year's Day. $1 donation suggested. Ice skating rink $6 per 45 minute session. Visit Santa $10 for commemorative photo, $20 for a fast pass to see Santa. www.100ftchristmastree.com
Dec. 6: Key West Holiday Parade, Key West. Decorated and lighted floats cruise through Key West Harbor and the waters of the Historic Seaport. Starts at Bayview Park. Watch the parade from Truman Avenue or Duval Street. 7 p.m. Free www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents
Dec. 6-7: Buckler's Craft Fair, West Palm Beach. Browse through one-of-a-kind gifts, custom home décor, jewelry, furniture, country and traditional crafts, folk art, dolls, hair accessories, candles, baby items, artwork, pet items, quilts, wearable art, flags, painted glass, yard art, scrapbooking, personalized items, gourmet delights, and more. At South Florida Fairgrounds. Admission $7 per person, kids under 12 free. Free parking. $2 off admission with website coupon or a canned good. 386-860-0092. www.bucklercraftfair.com
Dec. 7: Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch, Fort Lauderdale. Live outdoor concert series bringing the area's best local jazz artists to the city's scenic Riverwalk the first Sunday of each month. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Everyone is welcome to attend, including well-behaved, leashed pets, and there is ample room to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. 954-828-5363. www.fortlauderdale.gov
Dec. 7: Christmas Tree Lighting at Whitehall, Palm Beach. During the holiday season the first floor of Whitehall, the beautiful residence that is the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, is decorated in traditional Gilded Age magnificence. The 16-foot Grand Hall Christmas tree is the center of Whitehall's holiday celebrations. Festivities include holiday music played on its original 1,249-pipe organ, choir performances and holiday refreshments. The event culminates with Henry Flagler's youngest descendants lighting the Grand Hall Christmas tree. Free with museum admission. 3-5 p.m. 561-655-2833. http://www.flaglermuseum.us
Dec. 12, 19: Historic Lighted Inn Tours, Key West. Discover the history and holiday spirit of Key West by touring beautifully decorated historic inns. The tours include creative offerings by local chefs, artists, writers and performers. 305-295-1334. keywestinns.com
Dec. 13: Boynton and Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade, Boynton Beach. Parade begins at the Boynton Beach Inlet and proceeds south to the C-15 Canal in Delray Beach. Begins at 6:30 p.m. Free. 561-243-1077. www.downtowndelraybeach
Dec. 13: Holiday Boat Parade, Key Largo. Blackwater Sound shimmers underneath as decorated boats parade along the shoreline in celebration of the holiday season. Top spots for viewing and libations include Sundowners, Senor Frijoles, the Marriott Key Largo Bay Resort and Caribbean Club. 305-451-4502. www.keylargoboatparade.com/
Dec. 13: Winterfest Boat Parade, Fort Lauderdale. The Parade stages along the New River and travels east to the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale and north to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. The best way to see the parade is viewing from the Grandstand Viewing Area (just north of Sunrise Boulevard) starting at 7 p.m. winterfestparade.com
Dec. 14: Barnacle Under Moonlight, Coconut Grove. Bring a blanket, bring a picnic, bring your friends and family and join us on the lawn of The Barnacle for a full moon concert as the blue moon lights up the skies of South Florida. At The Barnacle Historic State Park. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., music from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. No pets, no alcohol. Admission 10 and older $10 for non-members, ages 6-9 $3, under 6 free. 305-442-6866. www.floridastateparks.org
Dec. 18: Third Thursday Art Walk, Islamorada. Don't miss this month's Morada Way Art Walk! These fun events are held every month in Islamorada on the Third Thursday. Located at mile marker 81.5 on the Old Highway. This event is Fun! The hours of the event are 6 - 10 p.m. It is a free event with no admission charge. Stroll along the Old Highway and Morada Way with family and friends to enjoy the sights, sounds and culinary arts in Islamorada. 305-664-9100 www.fla-keys.com
Dec. 18 - 23: Flagler Museum Holiday Evening Tours, Palm Beach. During this beloved annual event, families tour Whitehall after hours and discover the origins of American Christmas traditions. Guests will have a rare opportunity to see Whitehall by the glow of the original 1902 light fixtures. Every visitor will receive a traditional Flagler Museum Christmas Cracker following the tour. A choral group will sing carols, and holiday refreshments will be served. The Museum Store will remain open for holiday shopping. Dec 18-19: Tours begin at 7:05 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 7:25 p.m. Dec. 20-23: Tours begin at 6:50 p.m., 7:05 p.m., 7:15p.m. and 7:25p.m. $25 for adults, $15 for children under age 18. Advance purcase required, please call 561-655-2833. www.flaglermuseum.us
Dec. 20: Winter Wonders, Islamorada. Winter Wonders is a Pops-in-the-Park family-friendly holiday concert on Dec. 20. The event starts at 4 p.m. in the ICE Amphitheater at Founders Park, Mile Marker 87, bayside. Admission is free. For information, visit www.fla-keys.com.
Dec. 27: The Florida Keys Craft Beer & Bubbly Fest, Marathon. The Florida Keys Craft Beer & Bubbly Fest serves up craft beers, wines and champagnes at the Marathon Community Park & Amphitheater, 200 36th Street (Mile Marker 49), on Dec. 27. Other highlights include a food truck invasion and music. Admission to the park is free. VIP tickets providing food and other perks are $60 each. Festival hours are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For information, visit www.keysbeerandbubblyfest.com.
Dec. 31: Discover Orange Bowl Football Game, Miami. Two of the top-ranked football teams in the country will compete for the Orange Bowl title. Game time is 8:30 p.m. At Sun Life Stadium. 305-341-4700. www.orangebowl.org
Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Shoe Drop Celebration, Key West. The Southernmost City celebrates with a shoe drop at Sloppy Joe's Bar; a descending 6-foot red high heel shoe carrying drag queen Sushi at the Bourbon Street Pub/New Orleans House complex; and a pirate wench descending from a tall ship mast in the island city's Historic Seaport. Call 293-9600. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents
Northeast Florida (including Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Flagler County and Amelia Island)
Nov. 22 - Feb. 1: Nights of Lights Festival and Celebration, St. Augustine. This inspiring display of more than two million tiny white lights adorning the palm trees and buildings throughout the city's historic district is based on a custom by the town's original Spanish colonists, who placed a white candle in their windows to brighten the nights during the Christmas holidays. Among special events and activities awaiting visitors: nighttime tours of ancient buildings and inns led by storytellers in period clothing, rollicking train and trolley tours through the narrow brick streets, art walks featuring more than 30 galleries serving free holiday refreshments on the First Friday in December and January, special Saturday night antique shopping events, a dazzling regatta, Florida ice skating, luminaries in the town plaza, holiday concerts, even a Christmas parade. 902-825-1004. www.NightsofLights.com
Dec. 5: First Friday Art Walk, St. Augustine. One of the city's most popular cultural events, held the first Friday of each month. Enjoy new exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at 20 participating galleries. Ripley's Red Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer complimentary shuttle service to most galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. 904-829-0065. www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.org
Dec. 5: 10th Annual Holiday Fest, Islamadora. The Florida Keys Holiday Festival is highlighted by a tree-lighting of the 35-foot Christmas tree at Founders Park, Mile Marker 87 on Dec. 5. Other attractions typically include a holiday parade featuring Santa, a 20-ton mountain of snow for mitten-clad munchkins, a holiday gift bazaar and a silent auction of ornaments decorated by local artists. Admission is free. Event hours are from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. For details, visit www.islamoradachamber.com.
Dec. 6, 13, 20: Santa's Storybook Tea Party, Amelia Island. The Lobby Lounge A Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island tradition; a fireside holiday storybook read by Santa plus an afternoon tea, with finger sandwiches, pastries, candy, cakes and a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus. $50 adults and children Ages 6 and up/$15 children 5 and under; includes service charge. For more info visit www.ritzcarlton.com.
Dec. 7: 46th Annual Garden Club Christmas Tour of Homes, St. Augustine. Annual tour showcases holiday decorations at a selection of St. Augustine's most outstanding private homes. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia in the colorful and natural floral decorations and arrangements designed and handcrafted by members of The Garden Club of St. Augustine. In addition, a delightful tea is included in the ticket price. The tour takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Tickets are $25 and should be purchased in advance because of limited availability 904-797-0660. www.christmastourofhomes.com
Dec. 12: Amelia Island Holiday Cookie Tour, Amelia Island. Sample a signature cookie from each of the inns of Amelia Island's historic structures and take the recipes home with you. Self-guided and self-paced. $25. www.ameliaislandinns.com/
Dec. 13: Artrageous Artwalk, Fernandina Beach. Held monthly on second Saturday each month, to open the doors of some of Amelia Island's incredible galleries, featuring photography, pottery, copper, stained glass, watercolor, acrylics and more. Participants can peruse more than a dozen galleries in downtown Fernandina Beach and at the Plantation Artists' Guild and Gallery located at Amelia Island Plantation. 5:30-9:30 p.m. 904-277-0717. ameliaisland.com/calendar
Dec. 20: The Downtown Bazaar, St. Augustine. The Old City's Colonial Quarter sets the scene for The Downtown Bazaar on Dec. 20. The event, at 33 St. George Street, from 6 p.m. To 10 p.m., includes opportunities to stroll along torch-lit pathways where you are likely to encounter a Spanish soldier and his entourage, a free concert, art show, magician and belly dancers. Admission is free and food will be available for purchase. For details about the event log on to www.thedowntownbazaar.com; for information about travel to St. Augustine including lodging, dining and attractions, visit www.floridashistoriccoast.com.
Dec. 21: Old Town Craft Show, St. Augustine. The Old City sets the scene for Holiday Art Shows' Old Town Craft Show – Winter on Dec. 27-28. The juried event showcases original creations in a variety of media at Francis Field, 25 West Castillo Drive. Event hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day rain or shine. Admission is free and parking is available at the Visitors Center parking deck. For information, visit www.holidayartshows.com
Dec. 27-28: Old Town Arts & Crafts Show, St. Augustine. There's something for arts and crafts enthusiasts in the Old City this weekend! The Old Town Arts & Crafts Show may be the ticket for you. This is a juried fair featuring the creations of artists and craftsmen from northeast Florida and other parts of the country on Dec. 27-28. The outdoor event, at Francis Field on 25 West Castillo Drive, showcases original handmade art and fine crafts in various media including painting, sculpture, glass, pottery, photography, fashions and jewelry. Festival hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is free. For information on the event, visit www.OldTownArtShow.com.
North-Central Florida (including Ocala, Gainesville and Tallahassee)
Dec. 5: 26th Annual Camellia Christmas, Tallahassee. Maclay Gardens State Park invites the community to celebrate the Christmas Season with this 26th annual candlelight stroll through the gardens accompanied by holiday music performed by local artists. Bid on holiday finery for the home or a gift at the silent auction, which will include items donated by local merchants, artists and florists. Hot apple cider and holiday cookies will be served. Free; park entrance fee is waived. 850-487-4115. www.floridastateparks.org/maclaygardens/Events.cfm
Dec. 5 - 31: Festival of Lights, White Springs. At Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, the state park holiday celebration features more than four million lights throughout the park, open each evening until 9 p.m., except Christmas Night, Dec. 25. Named a Top 20 Event in the southeastern United States, visitors can enjoy award-winning holiday sights and sounds throughout the park. Unique holiday light displays include majestic oak trees decorated with thousands of lights, an antebellum Museum dressed in full holiday splendor, a gingerbread village, a candy cane forest, Santa's runway and much more. The park's centerpiece is the 200 foot tall Carillon Tower, which illuminates the night sky as holiday music rings from its bells. Cousin Thelma Boltin's Gift Shop will be open everyday from noon until 9 p.m. Complimentary hot cocoa and popcorn are served nightly as the Craft Square comes alive with craft demonstrations, a bonfire, marshmallow roasting and holiday singing for everyone. Visitors can experience a "flurry" of fun in our winter wonderland which includes holiday music at the park nightly from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Weather reports predict a chance of snow flurries every evening on the hour and giant snow families have been spotted in the area. You may even get to meet Santa. Visitors can also experience the festival via a one mile horse-drawn wagon or take a private carriage ride to experience the lights on display. Entrance fee: $3 per person. Children under 3 are free. 386-397-4478. http://www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster
Dec. 6: Dudley Farm Cane Day, Newberry. This is the annual Cane Grinding and commemoration of Miss Myrtle Dudley's birthday, at Dudley Farm Historic State Park. Continues the farm family tradition of grinding sugar cane and boiling it into cane syrup, making this a unique old-time community gathering. Visitors to this state park facility can tour the farm, see other activities and craft demonstrations, or take a wagon ride. Syrup and farm products are sold on this day. Included in regular park admission: $8 per vehicle. 352-472-1142. www.floridastateparks.org/dudleyfarm/Events.cfm
Dec. 6: 28th Annual Winter Festival, Tallahassee. As always, the Winter Festival will have much to offer and something for everyone to enjoy throughout a fun-filled, action-packed evening. This year the festival will be from 3 pm to 10 pm on Saturday, Dec. 6. There are five stages of entertainment, food vendors, arts and crafts and a variety of exhibitors and a children's activity area featuring hands-on craft activities and bounce houses. 850-891-3860. www.talgov.com/parks/
Dec. 6-7: Annual Market Days, Tallahassee. One of the largest and finest arts and crafts shows in the Southeast, featuring handmade creations of some 300 artists and craftsmen. Works include fine arts, ceramics, country furniture, stained glass, woodwork, glasswork, dolls, clocks, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, metalwork, clothing, photography and calligraphy. The event also dishes up a wide selection of mouth-watering foods and refreshments. At North Florida Fairgrounds. Saturday, 10a.m.-5p.m. Sunday 10a.m.-4p.m. Adults $6, Children 6-12 $4. 850-575-8684. www.marketdays.org
Dec. 12-13: 7th Annual Southern Pines Blues and BBQ Festival, Perry. Touted as North Florida's biggest and best blues and BBQ festival, featuring talented blues artists from all over and Triple Crown BBQ competition where the best of the best from Florida, Alabama and Georgia vie for the top prize. There also will be a People's Choice, where you are the judge, and an open backyard competition. At Forest Capital Museum State Park. 850-584-5377, toll free 866-584-5366. www.southernpinesblues.com
Dec. 12-14: Santa of the Rainbow, Dunnellon. Friends of Rainbow Springs will once again bring Santa Clause to Dunnellon. Bring a child or become a child yourself for this one of a kind experience. Walk through the wonderland of lights that decorate the headsprings area of Rainbow Springs State Park. See Mr. and Mrs. Clause come up the Rainbow River on a lighted boat and head toward their cottage where pictures are taken. Visit with Santa's elves and listen to carols. 6-8 p.m. SPECIAL admission: $2. 352-465-8555. www.floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings/events.cfm
Dec. 13: Pickin' in the Park, Ocala. On the third Sunday or each month, local and visiting musicians perform acoustic music in a scenic area in front of the headsprings at Silver Springs State Park. 1 p.m. Free with paid park admission. 1425 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL 34470. (352) 236-7148. www.floridastateparks.org/silversprings
Dec. 14: Annual Holiday Parade and Lawn Mower Parade. Havana. Getting into the holiday spirit has never been more fun – how creative can you get in decorating your riding lawn mower to look like a parade float? Choose a holiday theme or any crazy, zany or fun idea you think can win one of three prizes totaling $300. Now golf carts have been added to the mix, with a separate prize awarded for the most ingeniously decorated golf cart. Food and craft vendors add a festive atmosphere to the day. Free. 850-539-6900. http://www.havanaflorida.com/events.aspx
Dec. 19-20: Holiday Magic, Tallahassee. Wrap your holiday season in style by joining the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra at Holiday Magic. A world-class vocal quartet will collaborate with the orchestra in a spectacular evening of music that offers inspiration, entertainment, and plenty of smiles. At Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. 8 p.m. 850-224-0461. www.tallahasseesymphony.org
Dec. 20: The Ichetucknee Time Machine, Fort White. Take a fascinating journey by van into the Ichetucknee forest and visit the site of the 17th Century Mission de San Martin de Timucua. Learn all about the ancient Timucuan capital of Aquacalyquen. We highly recommend you wear long pants, sturdy shoes and insect repellent. Begins at 9 a.m. to noon. Meet at the Head Spring Parking Lot (North Entrance) of Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Regular park entrance fee, $6 per vehicle. 386-497-4690. www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings/Events.cfm
The Panhandle (including Pensacola, Panama City Beach, Apalachicola and Destin)
Through Dec. 27: 19th Annual Niceville Christmas Display "Animation in Motion," Niceville. This Christmas Display features over 600 animated dolls, largest Christmas Village in town with over 1000 pieces. N-scale, H.O.-scale, O-scale and G-scale model trains. Come visit our Niceville Christmas display and see our new and unique layout. While you are visiting, grab an evening snack. This a great place for family Christmas pictures, so let us be a part of your Christmas memories. Many activities will be available for the family. thenicevillechristmaslady.com
Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Americana Under the Stars, Santa Rosa Beach. Every Thursday at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park you can find original Americana music, including folk, jazz, blues and more by musicians from Florida and other states at the upgraded amphitheater. Updated schedule of artists and dates can be found at www.luckymudmusic.com. $5 donation to the Friends of Topsail Hill Preserve State Park includes regular park admission. 7525 W. Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. 850-267-8330. www.floridastateparks.org/park/Topsail-Hill
Dec. 12: Holiday Pops! Concert, Niceville. The sounds of the holiday season will fill the air as the NFSO, joined by the Northwest Florida Symphony Chorale, performs some of the most beautiful season music ever written. It's an evening for everyone with popular holiday fare, a carol sing-along with eh audience, and festive holiday and Christmas music. Tickets $25 each for adults. 7:30 p.m. mattiekellyartscenter.org
Dec. 13: 5K Reindeer Race, Panama City Beach. The JL 10K and 5K Reindeer Race & 1-mile Santa Shuffle race starts at the St. Andrews State Park in Panama City Beach. All runners and walkers are treated to a down-and-back lap along the picturesque and flat loop of one of Florida's most amazing state parks. Race starts at 8 a.m. 4607 State Park Ln., Panama City Beach, FL 32408. Admission $10. www.jlpanamacity.org
Dec. 14: 28th Annual Holiday on the Harbor, Destin. The Destin Harbor will be dancing with holiday lights and cheer during the 28th Annual Destin Boat Parade. Come enjoy live music, children's arts and craft and hot chocolate! Visit with Santa Claus from 12-4 PM. Boat Parade begins at 6pm. Immediately following the parade will be a spectacular fireworks display over the Destin Harbor. www.emeraldcoastfl.com
Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Beach Ball Drop, Panama City Beach. Ring in the New Year with a fun beachside celebration. Enjoy family time early, 5:30-8:30 p.m., where there will be bounce houses, party favors, street performers and costumed characters. Countdown to 2015 begins at 8:30 p.m., when streets will be closed to traffic, live entertainers, prizes and a midnight fireworks display caps it all. At Pier Park. 850-233-5070. www.visitpanamacitybeach.com
Special Correspondent Georgina Cruz contributed to this report


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Tag Archives: open book
Mt. Washington State Park, Monday April 9, 2012
Eastern Slopes of Mt Washington Mt Washington started the week off last Sunday afternoon on a sad note. Let me first explain a little how Search and Rescue (SAR) on Mt Washington works. The 60-acre summit of Mt Washington is a … Continue reading
Posted in Mt Washington State Park | Tagged AVSAR, crevasse, fatality, Huntington Ravine, Norman Priebatsch, open book, SAR, Search and Rescue, Snow Rangers, the "list", Tuckerman Ravine | Leave a comment
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State of Origin II - Player by Player
THE fallout from one of the toughest Origins in recent memory has seen Queensland reshuffle their line-up into a tougher outfit for Origin II.
Queensland desperate to keep series alive
STATE of Origin returns to Sydney tonight with Queensland desperate to keep rugby league's showpiece series alive.
History Favours NSW
QUEENSLAND will have to overcome a 15-year Origin hoodoo to win this year's State of Origin series.
Kennedy pleads guilty but attempts downgrade
NEW South Wales second rower Ben Kennedy has pleaded guilty to a high tackle charge but will contest the grading at the Australian Rugby League judiciary.
Dominant Blues win Origin series
THE New South Wales Blues have scored a dominant 27-4 victory over the Queensland Maroons to win the match and the series at Telstra Stadium tonight.
Gould says Queensland at the End of an Era
QUEENSLAND is at the end of an era while New South Wales is just getting started, Blues Origin coach Phil Gould has said.
Rain will help big Maroons forwards: Gould
NEW South Wales coach Phil Gould says rain in Sydney today is likely to help the bigger Queensland forwards in tonight's second match of the rugby league State of Origin series.
Kennedy in trouble for high shot
NSW'S State of Origin triumph over Queensland has been soured with Ben Kennedy being charged with a grade one reckless high tackle on Maroons prop Steve Price.
NSWRL Premier League : Round 11 results
TWO drawn results hit the headlines in this round of the NSWRL Premier League, with the Newtown Jets drawing with the North Sydney Bears, and the Magpies and Roosters also ending equal on the scoreboard.
Frank Hyde steals the show in a thrilling draw
THE Sydney Airport Jets and fellow 1908 Foundation Club the North Sydney Bears turned on a thrilling 22-all draw in the NSW Premier League match played at Henson Park last Saturday. This was also the deciding match for the inaugural Frank Hyde Cup series, and fittingly that living Rugby League legend Frank Hyde himself was on hand to present the trophy to the two captains, Craig Field (Newtown) and Ben Black (Norths). Frank received an enormous reception from the good Henson Park crowd, and the old trouper was clearly delighted to be back in the thick of the action at the ground he first graced as a player with the Bluebags nearly seventy years ago. Both teams made sure this Cup decider would be a game to remember. The Jets looked the goods leading 22-6 with fifteen minutes remaining, but the Bears charged home to draw level with just three minutes left on the clock. Amazingly, the Jets then had a try controversially disallowed as the full-time siren sounded! Newtown missed the go-forward of giant prop Monah Elahmad after he left the field injured. Billy Najarrin, Tony Phillips,Tabua Cakacaka and Joe Lichaa were other Jets forwards to stand out, while Craig West and Andrew Le Breton were the best of the backs. In the Jim Beam Cup match, Newtown fought on gamely against the competition leaders Ryde-Eastwood, eventually going down by 30-14. These boys might have had a disrupted season, but they certainly don't lack "bottle" or pride in themselves. The Sydney Airport Jets meet South Sydney in the Premier League at Aussie Stadium this Sunday at 1.00pm, while on Saturday in the Jim Beam Cup the Jets travel away to take on The Entrance, with this match kicking off at 3.15pm.
A fan's message to the Newtown RLFC
HERE at Newtown we believe we have a special product on offer at our home games at Henson Park, and that the Newtown club has a valuable ongoing role in Rugby League football. This very articulate supporter's message is worth reading.
Rooney re-signs with Panthers
PENRITH has locked up one of the game's most exciting young stars, winger Luke Rooney, until the end of the 2006 National Rugby League season.
Roosters Looking To Be Frugal With Players
THE Sydney Roosters may have to jettison both their Kiwis props to squeeze National Rugby League (NRL) veteran Brad Fittler under their salary cap for the 2004 season.
Broncos lose Origin pair
BRISBANE will be missing Queensland State of Origin pair Ben Ikin and Dane Carlaw in tonight's National Rugby League match against the Sydney Roosters in Brisbane.
Gasnier Out Of Weekends Game
DRAGONS centre Mark Gasnier has been ruled out of tomorrow night?s Telstra Premiership clash with Manly at Brookvale Oval with an ongoing knee injury.


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Alterna Bamboo Style Cleanse Extend Translucent Dry Shampoo
We know you want the goods as soon as possible, which is why orders received by 3pm ET leave our warehouse the very same day. We'll send you an email that day to confirm shipment and the email will include your tracking information.
Our warehouse is closed Saturday & Sunday, so orders received after 3pm ET on Fridays will not ship out until Monday.
Based on 2 Reviews
Suzanne S.Edgewood, WAHairBlondeColor Treated HairWas Hoping For More...I have a hard time using this on a regular basis if I have skipped a day of shampooing, to be perfectly honest. It makes my hair kind of sticky-feeling, and so it is almost worse to use it after only one day. It just wasn't what I was hoping for. Maybe I'm just one of those people who needs to wash every single day, or just pull it back. This product didn't help me much. Maybe I'll try a different brand of dry shampoo. Still searching for the perfect dry shampoo for my hair.2 out of 2 shoppers thought this review was helpful.
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SarahHairBlackNormal HairOily HairColor Treated HairFine or Thin HairThick or Coarse HairThe Best By FarI have black colored long medium thick fine hair that gets oily at times and this stuff takes the oil away it is also translucent and blends in well with my dark hair color. I have tried pssst, suave, got 2 be, batise, and others and this is the best at doing its job!! Dose not make my hair grayish at all absorbs the oil quickly and leaves my hair fresh like i just washed. Great for every other day or two day skips in washing hair. Dose not build up in my hair and smells good. Its a very light scent non coconut or anything like perfume more like floral green natural fresh. Love it!!5 out of 5 shoppers thought this review was helpful.
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Have you tried this product? Help out by sharing what worked (or didn't)!Write a Review


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Food & Drink
- 24-hour restaurant
- Afternoon Tea
- Alfresco/Outdoor Dining
- Brunch
- Buffet
- Cafes
- Cheap Eat/Budget
- Children/Family
- Chillout
- Corporate Functions
- Fine Dining
- Gay Friendly Restaurants
- Live Music
- Organic Restaurants
- Private Dining
- Pubs & Bar
- Quiet/Peaceful
- Romance/First Dates
- Roof Garden/Terrace Dining
- Supper/Night Dining
- Take Away
- View/Scenery
- Waterfront
- American
- Asian Fusion
- Barbecue
- Brasserie / Café
- Cajun / Creole/Soul
- Chinese
- Desserts
- European
- Fast Food /Snacks
- French / Bistro
- Greek
- Halal
- Ice Cream
- Indian
- Indonesian
- International
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Lebanese
- Mediterranean
- Mexican
- Pizza and pasta
- Seafood
- Spanish
- Steak Houses
- Thai Food
- Various
- Vegetarian
- Vietnamese
- Scandinavian
- Brazilian
- Asian
- Other
- Kosher
Search For Place to Eat
Fusion leaning on Japanese barely describes the elaborate, delicious and wildly inventive meals on this diverse menu. Rocket salmon with jaewjaew sauce places raw salmon around rocket leaves with a tangy sauce for a good, cold start. Silver cod tortilla, however, is the ultimate in wizardry with warm fish and other ingredients stuffed into soft tortillas, amid pools of mustard. Spicy wasabi octopussy salad is an excellent, nostril-flaring dish big enough for two people to enjoy its cucumbers, tomatoes, sprouts, onions and other greens. Seared bonito, swimming in apple mustard sauce, plunks wonderful circles of raw, cold fish in an indescribable, almost nutty-flavoured dressing. Apple duck in tamarind sauce is also fantastic and lays well-cooked slices of duck and fruit in a not-too-sweet tamarind gravy. Other choices emphasise dishes with a Japanese origin twisted into sensational, sometimes spicy, sometimes Italian, sometimes out-of-this-world meals which are tasteful and nutritious. Dessert is more modest with chocolate cake a mere cupcake-sized, hot and soft, fudgy splendour. Sherbet is nice, very sweet and generous in a high cocktail glass.
Bangkok :
Bangkok :


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Geography | Government | History
Montenegro, a jumbled mass of mountains, with a small coastline along the Adriatic, borders Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia. It is roughly the size of Connecticut.
Republic. Montenegro, formerly part of Serbia and Montenegro, gained independence on June 3, 2006.
The first inhabitants on the Balkan peninsula were the ancient people known as the Illyrians. The Slavic people followed in the 6th and 7th centuries. What is now Montenegro was the Serbian principality of Zeta in the 14th century. The principality was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire from the 14th to the 19th century, though this mountainous region managed to evade tight Ottoman control. It then became a principality within the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and in 1878 achieved independence. In 1910, Prince Nicholas I proclaimed himself king. During World War I, Montenegro fought on the side of the Allies and was defeated by Austro-German forces. Nicholas was forced to flee the country and Montenegro was annexed to Serbia, then called the Kingdom of the Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, and renamed Yugoslavia in 1929. After World War II, Yugoslavia became a Communist republic under Josip Tito. Tito's tight rein kept ethnic tensions in check until his death in 1980. Without his pan-Slavic influence, ethnic and nationalist differences began to flare, and by the 1990s Yugoslavia started to disintegrate in a brutal ten-year civil war. In the war's aftermath, Serbia and Montenegro were the only two remaining republics of Yugoslavia, and in Feb. 2003, they formed a new state, a loose federation called Serbia and Montenegro. The arrangement was made to placate Montenegro's restive stirrings for independence and stipulated that Montenegro could hold a referendum on independence after three years. In May 2003, Filip Vujanovic, a strong advocate of Montenegrin independence, was elected Montenegro's president.
Independence Is Declared
In May 2006, Montenegro held a referendum on independence, which narrowly passed. On June 3, it declared independence, and on June 26, it became the 192nd member of the United Nations. Prime Minister Zeljko Sturanovic resigned in January 2008 to undergo treatment for a rare form of lung cancer. He was replaced by Milo Djukanovic, who has already served four terms as prime minister. He had been in power as either president or prime minister of Montenegro from 1991 to 2006 and had led the country's drive for independence.
On April 6, 2008, incumbent Filip Vujanovic won the presidential election with approximately 51 perecent of the vote. Voter turnout was about 69%. In Dececember 2010, the longest-serving leader in the Balkans, Prime Minister Milo Djukanovic, resigned. Vujanovic named Igor Luksic, the current finance minister, as prime minister.
Under Luksic's government, the country's GDP grew 3.2 percent, negotiations for EU access began, and the groundwork for joining NATO was laid.
October 2012 elections reestablished the foothold of Montenegro's biggest party, Milo Djukanovic's Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS). Parliament approved the new government on Dec. 4: Igor Luksic as foreign minister, Rasko Konjevic as interior minister, and Radoje Zugic as finance minister; Milica Pejanovic Djurisic is to remain as defense minister.
Presidential elections were held on April 7, 2013. Incumbent Filip Vujanovic won once again. This time Vujanovic received 51.2 percent of the vote. Democratic Front candidate Miodrag Lekic was a close second with 48.8 percent. Vujanovic would now serve a third term as president.
More on Montenegro from Fact Monster:


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Booking your tickets to France with airberlin will take you to a country steeped in history and rich culture. Diverse landscapes are plentiful as travelers explore the countryside, providing something for everyone. Exquisite food and drinks, perhaps the best in the world, are sure to put a smile on every face. At each turn, vacationers will be immersed in the historical charm of this Western European country. Begin your journey invigorated by flying on one of airberlin's modern planes designed with your comfort in mind.
France's Must-See Attractions
- Travel to the top of the Eiffel Tower by foot or elevator and take in the panoramic views of the city of Paris in all its splendor
- Explore the vineyards of France's 11 major winemaking regions, each wine having its own distinct characteristics
- Glide down the French Alps on skis or a snowboard and enjoy excellent snow atop some of Europe's highest and most challenging pistes
Hidden Gems in France
Flight deals to France will allow travelers to experience lesser-traveled spots such as Neuf-Brisach, a citadel on the German border. Enjoy the shoreline of Lake Geneva in Nernier. In the countryside of Burgundy lies Alésia, the site of a defining battle with the Romans.
France's Pleasures
Booking flights to France will give you a chance to enjoy classically created dishes, rich cheeses and mouthwatering desserts throughout the day to fill your days with delightful cuisine. The French are very serious about food and it is not uncommon for them to devote several hours to each meal. French cuisine is the result of centuries of tradition and culture.
Plan Your France Holiday
Weather in France will vary depending on which part of the country you are visiting. Southern France boasts a warmer and drier climate. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but cheap hotels in France can be found during the cooler months.


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Lace Window Chemise
Style: 28581601
Silky chiffon wraps around the bust above a peek-a-boo Venise lace panel before giving way to a flowing, floor-skimming skirt. From Flora Nikrooz. Tie closure. Adjustable straps. Lined shirred cups. Polyester chiffon, lace; polyester charmeuse lining. Hand wash. USA.
- Falls 38" from natural waist


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A series of recent military exercises in major cities including Miami and Houston have alarmed residents and even local officials, many of whom were reportedly unaware that the drills would be taking place in their jurisdictions. The Obama administration's controversial "urban-warfare" scenarios included low-flying black helicopters firing blanks out of machine guns, heavily armed troops rappelling onto buildings, and more.
More than a few commentators have expressed concerns about the true purpose of the training exercises — especially in light of troubling anti-constitutional political developments in Washington, D.C., and the increasingly unstable economy. However, authorities assured media outlets that there was no cause for alarm and that the drills were just "routine" operations to keep Americans forces ready for urban warfare.
The most recent military exercises to spark mass panic and terror were held this week in Texas — one over Houston and another in Galveston. In southeast Houston, U.S. Army Special Operations forces working with other agencies used unmarked military helicopters to "take over" a local high school in the area as heavily armed men in fatigues ran around firing what most terrorized residents assumed were live rounds.
"When you see this, you think the worst. When you hear this, you think the worst," area resident Frances Jerrals told a local ABC affiliate after witnessing the highly controversial exercise. "I felt like I was in a warzone. … It was nonstop. I was terrified." Other residents who spoke with reporters expressed similar sentiments, and emergency services reportedly responded to multiple reports of gun fire throughout the operation.
Police officials later apologized for not warning people about the exercise, though the Army claimed it had at least notified the city's public safety director. Still, local authorities, including the city council and the mayor, were never informed of the plans. "They should have notified us on this magnitude. They should have let somebody know," complained Houston Council Member Wanda Adams, who represents the district where the drill took place. Authorities also refused to tell reporters exactly what they were doing, according to local news reports.
In Galveston, meanwhile, residents suffered from a similar simulated military invasion by U.S. Army Special Operations forces working with other agencies; although there, at least, citizens were given advance warning in news reports. According to local media, some 80 soldiers and an unknown number of law enforcement agents firing "simulated ammunition" were involved in the "urban combat" operations. A military spokesman attempted to justify the scheme in a statement e-mailed to reporters.
Click here to read the entire article.


text: M2 Pictures, a TV show production firm in downtown Hampton, is celebrating the grand opening of its new studio in the 100-year-old former post office building on Friday. The 8-year-old company produces shows for the Discovery channel, National Geographic, TLC, MSNBC, OWN, LMN, Destination America and the Travel Channel, among others, according to a news release. Read more about the firm's acquisition of the building here. The general public can tour the 20,000-square-foot studio at 11:15 a.m. after remarks from Mayor George Wallace and company leaders at 10:30 a.m. VIP tours start at 11 a.m. Where: 132 E. Queen St. in Hampton


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Mountain House
Beef Stroganoff
In Stock Product Number: 12977
The Beef Stroganoff by Mountain House is a freeze dried food that has been compact vacuum packed for awesome taste. The package holds up less space in your backpack and won't expand at high elevations. A convenient stand up zipper pouch allows for eating right out of the bag with a hearty 16oz serving.
- New compact vacuum pouch
- Won't expand at high elevations
- Takes less space in your backpack
- Hearty 16oz serving
- Convenient stand up zipper pouch
Gender: Unisex
Weight: .45 lbs
Season: S15
Vendor ProductId: 50119
Review ProductId: 12977
Reviewed by 1 customer
- Easy To Prepare
- Flavorful
- Good Value
- Non-Perishable
- Well Packaged
Best Uses
- Camping
- Long term storage
- Survival
Comments about Mountain House Beef Stroganoff:
Mountain House beef stroganoff is great to add some good tasting variety to your long-term store of food for emergencies, or for lightweight backpacking.


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By RICHARD SHAWSun Advocate community editor
The issue of roads and rights-of-way came up during the May 15 meeting of the Carbon County Commission, with the Nine Mile Canyon and Spring Canyon areas leading the way.
In particular, the Nine Mile Canyon county right-of-way has been troublesome to the commission since Utah turned State Road 53 over to the local governmental body.
"We have to be careful not to shoot ourselves in the foot on this issue," stated Commissioner Mike Milovich during the discussion. "We need to ask if any kind of action, such as this resolution, will cause us legal problems."
The resolution was introduced to the commission in May and, since then, Carbon lawmakers have been considering the ramifications of establishing a defined roadway corridor.
"The point is that we are not trying to take more land, but we want to use the historical right-of-way as a guide to what we have," stated county lands and access coordinator Rex Sacco in support of passing the resolution.
But county attorney Gene Strate voiced concerns about the tentative plans for the right-of-way and the legal problems the matter could generate.
"My concern is about the idea of a 100-foot right-of-way," explained Strate. "It appears what we are saying here is that where the right-of-way isn't prescriptive, we own it."
"I worry that might be an illegal taking of land. It seems we either have the land or we don't," indicated the county attorney.
County building and zoning director Dave Levanger pointed out that a significant part of the problem goes back to when the state turned over the road to the county.
"When they did that in 1968, there were only three areas that had prepared maps," noted Levanger. "In the days before that, the state officials did little in the way of acquiring rights to land they needed for roads."
"There are an awful lot of roads in this state that no one has any maps or legal documents to. I understand Gene's concern, but we would prepare a map according to the fence lines," explained the county planning and zoning director.
In some places in the canyon, the areas in question have been defined by bar ditches, commented Commissioner Bill Krompel. In other places, the areas have been defined by fences.
"Basically, in a lot of places, the area for the road has shrunk over the years," said Krompel.
The main reason to pass a resolution on the canyon is to develop a written statement on what the commission believes is the county's road, noted Sacco.
"It would also assist the (United States) Bureau of Land Management and others in their efforts, and it could also identify, for engineering purposes, what we have to work with," explained Levanger.
But, based on the information presented at the meeting and Strate's concerns, the commissioners hesitated to approve the resolution.
"I think we need some guidelines here," stated Krompel. "Let's get some measurements on the road so we can know what we are dealing with."
However, Milovich questioned the recommendation because no one knows the width of the right-of-way in many places.
Following the discussion, the commissioners decided to study the issue, gather more information and address the matter at a future public meeting.
The next item on the agenda had to do with a situation relating to a different right-of-way issue.
"We are here to ask for your help," said Rick Gatherum, a landowner in Spring Canyon near Helper. "We have a bad trespassing problem on our property. Pretty much on any day, you can find people who aren't supposed to be there on our land."
"Last year, we had a trailer and a four-wheeler stolen from our property. I was even assaulted on the property when I approached four guys who had a campfire going there," claimed the property owner.
Gatherum and Gary Foy, a second land owner, said they had taken all the legal precautions they could by posting no trespassing signs along the road that accesses the Spring Canyon area.
"We get lots of fires started on our property and broken bottles are strewn everywhere," reported Foy. "We had a gate on our property in one place that got run over and smashed by someone."
The property owners also complained about the graffiti on the old Mutual Store building, pointing out that the situation was getting out of hand and a significant amount of the writing involves vulgar comments.
"What we're looking for is your help and suggestions," noted Gatherum. "We also have a couple of proposals. One thing we would like to see is a locked gate put near the Mutual building site. We would supply the gate and the lock ourselves."
But the problem of trespassing and destruction of property in the canyon is not a new one.
The commissioners have heard from many land owners in the area over the years about similar problems.
At one point, the county supported installing a locked gate across the road in the canyon to keep the problems down in the area.
However, the matter of public access into the Spring Canyon area subsequently became an issue.
"The fact is that I believe the county has a prescriptive right-of-way there," pointed out Krompel. "There are many good folks who want access to that area. There is also some Utah State Institutional Trust Lands above your land that people need to be able to get to."
"What needs to be done is to isolate the people who are causing the problem," indicated Krompel.
But Gatherum stated he could not understand why people should want to access the land in question.
However, the Carbon commissioners insisted that approving a permanently locked gate across a county road would be setting a bad precedent.
"We could open Pandora's Box by having a gate put up there," commented Commissioner Steve Burge. "Landowners are responsible for their own land. There is a limit as to what the government can do to protect private property."
Milovich suggested that a gate might could be used to control access at night, but that any details on such a move would have to worked out.
"The main bone of contention over the years has been the road that goes over the top of the canyon," he stated. "We are just very limited as to what we can do."
Sheriff James Cordova told the pair that if the property is posted and fenced, his deputies can help.
"However, there can't be any gray areas in this," said the Sheriff. "It must be black and white. The Helper police may be able to help too."
In conclusion the commissioners said they would check into closing the area at night and asked the two owners to work with the sheriff's department on problems in the area.
In a final item on the agenda the commission said that Edwards and Daniels Architects have been selected out of 20 applicants to be the designers for the new ambulance garage.
The building is slated to be constructed on 100 West and about 50 North in Price.
The commissioners noted that some problems on property lines will need to be worked out, but a resolution of the situations should be coming in the near future.


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The short answer to the question is yes. Um, I guess that's the only answer. IMHO the iptables syntax is somewhat similar to Cicso's ACL, though far more extensible. All you need to do is specify which inteface to bind the rule to. It can be one interface, two interfaces, or one interface with different rules applying to all different virual interfaces (eth0:0, eth0:1, eth0:2, etc).
You can create rules for packets destined to the box, leaving the box, or being forwarded through it. If it's a stand alone box, you only need worry about your input and output rulesets. If its a true LAN firewall, then you'd be more interested in your forwarding ruleset.
As for your specific ruleset, just drop all incoming packets with the syn flag set except those destined to 443. Allow all outgoing client requests and all incoming server replies. Allow everything on the loopback.


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The Royal Opera House: La Boheme (2014)
Program, Musical
Teeming with period detail, John Copley's definitive production of this much-loved opera is traditional opera at its best. From a shabby garret to the bustling Café Momus to a snowy courtyard at dawn, this minutely observed panorama of 1830s Parisian life, beautifully designed by Julia Trevelyan Oman, conjures emotions and atmosphere ranging from joy to tragedy, in large-scale crowd scenes and intimate tableaux.Puccini no doubt drew on his own student escapades for the robust humor of the comic scenes. And in his depiction of the tender and ultimately tragic love between Mimì and Rodolfo, Puccini achieved an immediacy, warmth and humanity that have rarely been equaled.
Cast: Christopher Maltman, Hibla Gerzmava, Pyotr Beczala, Roderick Williams, Alexia Voulgaridou, Anna Leese, Wookyung Kim, Rolando Villazón, Maija Kovalevska, Audun Iversen, Stefania Dovhan
Produced by:
Directed by: John Copley
Written by: Giacomo Puccini
Running time: 2hr 42min
Opens: Feb 23, 2014 Limited
|Theaters for Today
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on this day.


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42 U.S. Code § 3540 - Repealed.
Section, Pub. L. 95–128, title IX, § 904,Oct. 12, 1977, 91 Stat. 1149, required annual publication of prototype housing costs for one- to four-family dwelling units.
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