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original German edition
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from 40 customer reviews
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Product Description
Tikal is the most important and largest of all Mayan sites. It is located in the midst of an impenetrable jungle in northern Guatemala. The Mayans lived in Tikal from 600 BC to 900 AD, but little is known of the civilization that thrived there for 1500 years. As of this writing only a small fraction of the site has been excavated and investigated. Up to 4 expeditions plan to further explore the site to excavate and recover other temples and treasures.
Each player is the director of an expedition intent on exploring Tikal in search of the secret paths that lead to the temples and precious treasures that have remained hidden for over 1000 years. A player receives his points during four scoring rounds for each recovered treasure and for each temple that he controls. But, both temples and treasures can change hands. The expedition that earns the most points exploring Tikal wins the game.
Product Awards
Best Family Strategy Game, 2000
Best Strategy Game, 2000
Game of the Year, 1999
1st place, 1999
Product Information
Michael Kiesling, Wolfgang Kramer
Ravensburger Germany
Franz Vohwinkel
Year: 1999
Players: 2 - 4
Time: 90 minutes
Ages: 10 and up
Weight: 1,640 grams
Language Requirements: Game components are language-independent. An English translation of the rules is provided.
Product Reviews
Average Rating: 3.9 in 40 reviews
When my 7-year old daughter asked me to play (yet another) Pokmon game with her, I asked her if she didn't want to play a 'real' game instead.
She agreed, and I pulled out my copy of Tikal, which had been collecting dust on the shelf since I bought it.
The game was a hit. We played the simpler version of course - the regular would have been too complicated for a 7-year old, but she had a great time - in particular she liked how 'graphical' the game was - no text to read.
And yes, she won the game..
The regular version of the game, with the auction seems quite appropriate for a group of regular gamers - however, the simpler rules can be used to make this a very good 'family' game.
Reiner Knizia once said he had no favorite game, that he favored different games depending on who he was playing with. Well, my friends love this game and their intensity and enthusiasm is contagious. Tikal is one of my very favorite games because of it's elegant game play, esp. in the auction version.
After having played the auction version, we've decided there is no other version. At first we feared that it would add time to an game that already experiences down time between one's turns, but we found that it added a whole lot of depth with little impact on overall play time.
The best thing about Tikal--the thing that makes it so elegant--is that there is no perfect strategy that always works. Some people tout treasure collection, some people say to avoid playing a second tent, some say to cap a temple only when it's threatened, the list of tactics are endless, yet no one strategy is dominant. The game requires your flexibility and your ability to react to the game as it unfolds. You can't plan a strategy in advance because the others may bend it or break it with their own tactics.
The bits are beautiful. The game is amazing; game sessions are tense, tight, and though provoking. You can't ask for more from a game that Tikal offers. Tikal is a classic in my book.
I bought this game and played it immediately with the auction version. My best WAS the Acquire and didnt think about a game better than that. Although i like the war games, ACQUIRE has a different place in my heart.But now it's the second for me because TIKAL is much more better than it.There is no luck in TIKAL.Auction version is perfect.Strategy is very important and you try to stop your opponents.I always tried to find games with no dice and i found the best.Buy it!!!you will see the ENJOYMENT.
This is a very interesting game with a very good theme of the exploration of tikal. The best or one of the best things in the game is the gameboard will always be different on every game, no 2 games will ever be alike. On a game turn you will have 10 action points and some things you can do with them are discover pyramids, place camps, uncover temple levels, discover treasures, place guards on pyramids, exchange treasures etc...
Your goal in the game is to obtain the most point by controlling pyramids and treasure.
Some people dont like the downtime problem (it has never been a problem for me) but this is usually because there are many decisions you can make. I have never played the auction variant but I dont feel we need because the basic game seems more realistic.
A great design with a great theme and components for me deserves 5 stars!
You must be an incredibly anal gamer to slight this game for analysis paralysis. I have played this games numerous times with family and friends, and have enjoyed it immensely. Even my 7 year old loves this game. If you are obsessed with playing a game in under 90 minutes (I guess because you like marking down how many games you played in an evening on some weird scoring list), you may not like this game. If those you play with cannot relax and avoid analysing a game to death, you may have a problem. However, if you are a normal person who plays games in order to have fun, you will like this game. Don't play with the auction variant. We always play without the auction rules and glory in its randomness...it makes the game FUN...
I picked this up despite seeing some of the negative reviews about the long turns. Our turns move fairly ast. A three player game clocks in just under two hours and it never feels like it's dragging. Before our first game I told the group some of the concerns I had received from other players and we agreed to keep the turns as short as possible, going to a 3 minute timer if needed. Well, we haven't needed the timer since everyone seems to have adopted a pretty loose style of play. I also can't agree with the complaint that it has little interaction with the other players. If someone tries to grab a section of the board as their own private play area then you can be sure that everyone else will be streaming into your temples to make your life difficult.
We are quite happy with game play and the beautiful pieces. The theme seems to be more apparent than in other games (Playing the Raiders of The Lost Ark soundtrack during game play helps too). I would feel comfortable teaching this game to a new player and using it as an introduction to gaming.
Tikal is not for those who prefer a quick romp or a light hearted game session. I find myself mentally fatigued after playing, but it's so worth it! You simply have a remarkable variety of options at your disposal on any given turn. Choosing the right combination of actions can drive you crazy, but that's what makes this game so enjoyable. Tikal is heavy on strategy, but also combines a component of luck.
The board is simply a work of art. The individual tiles, wooden markers, treasure tokens and rule summary cards are all high quality, functional and look very good. Play is somewhat complex, but runs smoothly once you get the hang of it. It may take a turn or two to get the swing of things the first time playing.
Tikal is a game with relatively few rules, but infinite strategy. It's complexity is its beauty. This game certainly is not for everyone - but for those who are willing to spend the time with it, Tikal outshines most others.
I am surprised at the ambivalence this game is shown in these reviews. While some like Tikal a lot, others find it drab and dull. With some games I understand that completely, as they are great in some ways, lacking in others, thus drawing ambivalent response. But I feel Tikal is one game that is truly great all around, and am surprised at the number of people willing to give such low ratings, including one of my own game group's gamers. (2 stars, Jeff???)
This game's production, as everyone has noted, it fantastic. I think this is one of the best looking games ever made. As for the game itself, I think the theme works well as you uncover temples, race to the treasure troves, and take over the excavation of valuable temples. And the possibility of unlucky tile draws is offset by the cool ability to build base camps on any open space in the jungle. (So if some player is hoarding points in a corner, go build a base campe right there and steal all his points!)
Tikal is one of the first German games I bought, so I've played it over a longer period of time than any other game, and I still find it to be one of the best. (Even all of my non-gamer friends seem to like it! Guys and gals!) Points are everywhere on the board and trying to use a measly 10 action points to max out your points is excruciatingly fun. I find it works well even with 2 players.
All in all, I feel this is another great game from Kramer, but evidently not everyone feels the same way. Though it's a bit complicated initially, I highly recommend this game.
Because of the competitors involved in the game, it is nearly impossible to decide on a strategy before you start and stick to it. I love the learn-on-the-fly aspect of this game. Just when you think you are dominating the ownership of the pyramids (which I place the greatest emphasis on), your opponent pulls a high period tile and builds a new camp so that he is the only one that can occupy that pyramid. Do you start to move your diggers to gain some of the pyramid or just concede, allowing your opponent to get free reign on that portion of the board? Then when you have it all under control--in second place or just ahead--and it is the fourth and final round of scoring, the guy that is out of it steps up and places all of his men on pyramids that you have dominated all night. OH NO, NOT NOW! Your turn is now wasted just trying to recover your pyramids rather than attacking the competition. So much left to the last move of the game. A GREAT GAME BECAUSE OF THAT. Also, our games move quicker because we allow the next 3 players to look at their tile in secret before it is their turn. Speeds the game up quit a bit.
I'm surprised by the recent spate of mediocre reviews. Tikal has been great fun for the groups I've played in, with some cutthroat moves and a good pace. It provides a fairly comparable (in skill level, time and fun) game to Settlers; thus it's a good solution to burnout. Anyone who says it's too slow must be taking themselves too seriously. I agree wholeheartedly with the Spiel des Jahres!
As 'gamer from Gainesville' proves, you can't please everyone. I concur with the other reviews on this site, and the well-deserved awards the game has received.
Simple rules, numerous options, both offensive and defensive strategies, tough decisions, chance, and great 'bits.' TIKAL has it all. Many have noted long downtime, but I've found that veteran players keep the game moving fairly well.
TIKAL is a game that our group will be playing again and again.
The greatness of Tikal is that the designers have managed to create a game that is so full of colours, choices and plots, and yet is so attractive to even non-gamers. It is a true family game, but still based on strategy and tactics, with a little dash of luck (that's the way life is!). A true gem that gives you replay value over and over again. Recommended!
Only had this game for two months, but it's one of my favorites. My first few times playing this gem was with only 2 players and the game works very well with that few. Recently played with the full boat of 4 players and it was even better. A clever game which changes each time you play - laying out different tiles on the board is both rewarding for the player and visually pleasing when the board finally fills in. As usual with many of the best recent games, there are only so many action points you can use each turn and lots of choices to spend the points on. And the choices are everywhere - trade treasure, build up ruins, bring in more workers... you never seem to have enough points to do what you want (I suppose that's the point!) It plays reasonably fast and keeps others interested during the down-times. I'll recommend this one - even if just for 2 players.
In the great spirit of Tal der Konige, El Grande and Union Pacific, we now have Tikal. Another entry into the finest of gaming experiences - strategy, player interaction, great components, never the same game twice, and fabulous fun - all within the intriguing theme of Mayan exploration. Do you further excavate the temples? Dig up treasure? Go deeper into the jungle? Guard your holdings? Build another base camp? Hire more workers? You face all of these decisions, plus warding off the other players advancements.
The accolades which have been heaped upon Tikal are well earned. Order this game now. It doesnt get any better than this.
Hacking through the emerald-green shadows of undergrowth, you squint at a clearing up ahead. Calling to your achaelogical assistants strung out behind, you push forward, almost stumbling over an ancient ring of weathered stones--a Mayan royal burial mound! Jade amulets, gold statues and emerald-studded talismans surely lie within. But you need to lay claim to the newly-discovered temple two miles further before the day is through! Will you stay to oversee the excavation here, try to set up a base camp between the two, or push on to the temple, leaving a lackey or two to find the buried treasures? There's only so much you can do in a day, and the ominous rumbling of a nearby volcano means that time is running out....
Tikal puts you in the shoes of an archaelogical expedition leader, exploring the jungles of the Mayan Peninsula. A turn-based tile-laying game with movement based on action points, it draws on some of the best of what Samurai and Settlers of Catan have to offer. A tiered tile-drawing system of alphebetized tile groups (A-G) randomizes the tiles but controls how powerful they will be. A multitude of options per round, exciting and suspenseful gameplay and a unique scoring system make this game an original. Varied tactical approaches. Fantastic hand-drawn computer graphics. Just the right amount of luck. All this plus a high production quality with wooden markers and sturdy tiles make this game worth the price tag. An instant classic, this game is a must have for any serious gamer. Great replay value too: Very different tactics apply depending on the number of players, and it even comes with an alternate set of rules which brings a bidding element in. It's like having an expansion shipped with the game! OK, it's not perfect: The gameboard refused to lie absolutely flat (just moisten the seam with a sponge)and if the same player draws the volcano twice in a game, they're gonna be hard to beat. That's the breaks in a jaguar-eat-excavator world like Tikal, 'cause its a jungle out there.
It took me nearly five years to get around to playing Tikal, I didn't figure it would go over with my friends. I was rather surprised. Not by the fact that I liked it, I figured I would like Tikal. What surprised me is that my wife liked it. Normally, any game that has down time and requires quite a bit of thought each turn does not interest her. But Tikal is a solid game, and she has come to appreciate good games.
As mentioned in previous reviews, depending on your group Tikal could suffer from 'analysis paralysis'. At its best Tikal does have quite a bit of down time, but so far it has managed to hold the interest of my group. I am concerned that Tikal may not hold our interest well after 10 plays, only time will tell.
I found the game to be at its best with the auction rules, and would encourage anyone reading this review to not even fool around with the 'easy rules'. Go straight to the advanced rules, it is much more satisfying and only slightly more complex.
Bottom line, three stars with the easy rules, four with the auction rules. If down time is annoying to you or your group get a timer and approach with caution.
This is a fun and interesting game in which you command an expedition with the goal of digging up temples and uncovering hidden treasures in the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. The player who controls the most valuable temples and treasures is the winner. The strategies for winning are not so obvious though. There are 4 scoring rounds and ownership of temples and treasures constantly change hands. At one moment you could have an apparently commanding lead and at the next you find yourself chasing a new leader.
This game uses an Action Point system, similar to Torres (the similarities between the two games pretty much end there). You get 10 action points to spend on your turn. You can use your action points to do a variety of things: bring out new expedition members (1 pt/member), dig up temples (2 pts/level), uncover treasures (3 pts/treasure), move expedition members (1 pt/space), guard temples (5 pts/guard), create base camps (5 pts/camp), trade treasures with others players (3 pts/trade). So, as you can see, the number of options available to you on your turn can be a bit overwhelming. Combine this with the fact that you are staring at a very busy board and trying to also determine what your opponent(s) will likely do on their turns and you could easily fall victim to Analysis Paralysis. I dont like invoking time limits on turns, but in this game you almost need to if you ever want anyone to play it with you again.
In conclusion, this isnt the best strategy game Ive ever played but it is enjoyable. Ive played it with 2, 3, and 4 players and they all worked well. I would probably not recommend this game to people who dont enjoy strategy games. For strategy game lovers though, give this one a try. I dont think youll be disappointed. Also, the rules describe an auction version of the game, which I would highly recommend using. The luck factor is too high in the basic version of the game.
PS I know that Funagain is currently out of stock on this game but you can still find it at most game stores.
This is one of the best games I've seen that really isn't much fun. Its presentation marks score high and make you want to dive in and start playing . . . but there's something terribly wrong when you realize you are waiting too much more than you are playing.
It's a gamer's game for sure, but it's no El Grande. It's also the type of game where you can get frustrated with your opponents for taking so long, but when it comes to your turn, you get so involved with your choices that you realize you're just as guilty as the others for taking your time. You have to think to play this game and the choices are enormous enough that it takes time to process each one. At least with El Grande, your choices get whittled down with each turn so that the pace accelerates within each round as you change turns from player to player.
I think Tikal's greatest flaw is the basic mechanic itself. I like the action point system the way it's used in Torres, but there's too much to do in one turn here. You have a lot of decisions in Puerto Rico, but after making your decision, you're done your turn. In Tikal, you stop, think, figure out your move then go . . . and then discover it's still your turn because you have some moves left.
I haven't figured out a solution, but all this game needs is a way to keep the turns shorter and rolling quicker. And that's all it needs.
So much has already been said of this game in prior reviews, I will only give my thoughts on the game, rather than a description.
First off, I would suggest not altering the rules as suggested in the prior review. Adding a luck factor to the game detracts considerably from the elegance and the balance of the game. On the same note, I would suggest moving past the basic game to the auction game as soon as possible. Players must determine just how many victory points they are willing to pay for the privilege of taking a really good tile, and this can be a great game-balancer.
The components are beautiful, and the player aid cards provided are amazing in how much they can convey with no words.
Oh, and please, PLEASE, don't follow the suggestion of losing the 'Guard the Temple' rule. This is one of the most integral of the game subsystems, and it needs to stay in place.
Have fun in the jungle! Highly recommended.
I picked Tikal up because it won the the Game of the year award. The games that win of this prize are pretty good most of the time (Settlers of Catan, for example). It is high qualty, but not too colorfull (almost everything is green). Anyway, we started to play it, we were just unable to stop. Round after round, and it become addicted to this game. Hovewer, with time its shortfalls began to surface. The luck has little to do with that game, the smarter always the winner (this is why we started to use a dice to determine the AP for each turn). Also, we outlawed the Guard the temple rule. Finally we added a sand-glass. This way, the game became hectic and frenzy (but much more fun). The only problem is that all these effort were unable to solve its main problem: The simplicity of the basic mechanism (which is an advantage for the casual gamer) makes it boring sometime. But apart that the game is just great!
I think there are two things to keep in mind when playing Tikal, to make it show it's 4 stars:
1/ You need 3 players minimum (box says 2)
2/ You need to be annoying each other throughout the game. If you end up exploring in different parts of the board, not stepping on each others' toes, the game will drag, and be decided by who went first and who turned volcanoes. If on the other hand you're constantly grabbing good, defendable routes while looking to steal your opponent's, and they're trying the same, the game will be a blast. It takes that little to make the game a lot of fun. With a minimum of 3 players!
Tikal is an interesting experience. When it gets played by the Saturday group, the downtime is immense. Since the host is a true think-tank type of guy, he looks at every possibility before playing any tile or moving his pieces (and he's not above kibitzing for other people to leave him alone). I find this a little more enjoyable when the group playing does not consist of a hard-core wargamer or a statistician in disguise. It moves a little quicker and it's more fun.
There is some serious downtime though, even when playing with a group that moves quickly. After my turn, I can usually get up and get a cup of coffee before it's my turn again (unless a volcano is turned up). I usually prefer lighter fare than this, but occasionally it's worth a little agony.
The game pieces are very nice and the board is excellently rendered. The feel is appropriate, even if the game is a little heavy for the casual player.
I can see how this game is not everyone's cup of tea, but I really enjoy it. It has all the formulas I look for in a game: multiple ways to win, stealing from your opponents. What's not to like?
1-Incredible production for any price; this game is beautiful. Incredible value.
2-Multiple ways to win.
3-Great game for the family as well as the hardcore game group.
I previously submitted a critical 3-star review of this game. The fact that I am now upgrading the review to 4 stars is indicative of the nature of the game. It's a game that takes time to grow on you, and then only if you play with the right opponents and with the right attitude.
First, I should praise the production value of this game. It's very attractive, and Ravensburger gives excellent value for the money.
Though the rules of this game are relatively straightforward, the strategy of the game is very subtle. The first few times you play, it won't be obvious as to why the winner won. That and the fact that you probably start out playing the basic version, in which the tiles are randomly drawn, will probably have you somewhat frustrated over how things turn out.
Plus, there is a real downtime problem, at least the first few times. As much as I've grown to like this game, it probably has more downtime than any other game that we enjoy playing.
But once you become familiar with it, it's a terrific game. The same subtleities of strategy are what ultimately make it fascinating.
Play the auction version once you're familiar with it -- it makes a huge difference. This is one of the few games where playing the advanced version is actually faster than the basic. Each player sees the choices as to what is coming, and begins formulating ideas in his head a little quicker, we've found.
Plus, people get tiles that they've bid on, and they've bid on them because they have some sense of what they want to do with them. This also makes for faster play.
Finally, the advanced version allows for different styles of play. You can be aggressive, bidding to get the tiles you want, and playing a preconceived strategy. You can be more opportunistic, taking what comes to you cheaply, and shifting tactics as you go.
It's rarely obvious in this game as to whether it's best to focus on getting the coins, building up the temples, stealing other people's temples, positioning your camps, etc. We have found that our games are close, tense and exciting -- once we've settled into a habit of playing with 4 veterans.
Tikal is now one of my favorite games to play. But expect some growing pains.
As one of the first of the new games available in Canada, I quickly scooped it up at my first chance.
The game gets bonus points from me for its setting since I am from Guatemala. However, after a few games, I was left wanting more. The pieces are wonderful but the gameplay could use some help. For the most part, the game has played quite well. Unfortunately, a few of the people we play with tend to overanalyze their moves, leaving the rest of us waiting for far too long.
I do love how the game board evolves as the game moves along.
As a family game, this one might be a bit much for younger players, but on the whole it is an excellent game.
The game sounds simple enough: explore the jungle and try and get more treasures and control more temples than your opponents. The game actually is not that hard once you get the hang of the rules, but for some members of your family, the movement rules may take a while to grasp.
I have found that my friends tend to like this game a lot and ask to play it frequently, but my family gives it mixed reviews. It is a fun game, well-themed with jungles and temples and will probably be liked more by the boys then by the girls. However, if your family likes well thought-out games that take 90 minutes, and you have an older family (14 years and older), I can recommend this game.
As you can probably tell from the price, this is a 'big' board game along the lines of Monopoly or Settlers of Catan as opposed to Life or Samarkand, but is worth the pricetag. And it does play very well with 2-4 players.
The good: Involving, beautiful board, clever playing required. The bad: It takes a while to remember movement rules.
All in all, a great game aimed more at older, more strategic gaming families.
I received Tikal for Christmas '99, and I'm very pleased to add it to our gaming cupboard.
The game is beautifully-produced--from the board to the box the game comes in--it's a treat to play with.
The best part of the game is the short learning curve. The Mayan style rule cards are all you need to start playing, once you've read the explanation for each symbol just once. But now that I've played through a few times, I'm still working on the best strategies and counter-moves. I find that the time passes quickly between turns as you search out new strategies and examine the new tiles that get uncovered.
The scoring rounds are exciting--I like how the volcano suddenly 'erupts' from someone's hand when they choose it, and all the rest of the game is put on hold as you scramble for points. I also like how the same temples can score for multiple people. It gives you the chance to not just score, but steal someone else's 'work', or block an area from the leader.
The game loses a few points for lack of atmosphere. It tries hard, and looks beautiful, but I don't find myself as caught up in the 'air of the idea,' as I do in El Grande or Settlers of Catan. It seems that the scenario is more of an excuse to try out a few gaming concepts. As such, I don't 'get into it' as much as I would like.
Or maybe that's just because I keep losing.
In the game world jungle, Tikal is a gem. When I picked this up at the local game store in mid-June, I really didn't know what to expect. The cover loked intriguing and attractive. Looking at the back cover, the exploration theme seemed promising when combined with the variable set up feature of hexegonal hexes reminiscent of Settlers of Catan.
Upon opening the box I was impressed by the high quality compnenents. I had never owned a game made by Ravensburger and was really happy to feel heavy tiles, colorful wood compnenets and a heavy game board. One of my colorblind fiends also observed that the game avoided problems where everything could 'blend together' (a problem he's had with other games.)
I found the rules pretty easy to understand and we dived into play. The first game was highly experimental. This is a game where the abundasce of choices can be confusing. It was also difficult to determine the most productive ways of scoring points.
On the whole, I must say that I thoroughly enjoy Tikal and echo the sentiments of most of the reviews I've read.
The only complaints I have are minor. First, the downtime between players can be awkward, especially when one of the players hasnn't played before. Second, it seems to be difficult to catch a leader if they get a lead. Intelligemt game play seems to help keep the game close.
I find this game enjoyable. I enjoy the looks on other player's faces as they wrestle with the problem of 'so much to do, so few moves to do it in'. I also like the idea of moving for the maximum points on a scoring round. Excellent game!!!
TIKAL is one of those games that you just can't resist. It's quite pleasing to behold, and offers up more than enough strategy situations to keep your interest throughout.
I especially enjoyed the tile placement that creates a different map every time you play; the random scoring mechanism via the Volcano draw; the hunt for the 8 different types of treasures; the resource management of your 10 action points per turn (plus how to best allocate your leader and workers); and the overall feel that the exploration/archaeological theme conveys to the game.
If I had to nitpick to find faults, they would be that the game can only accommodate up to 4 players (apparently does not play as well with 2 or 3), and the possibility of delays between player turns as folks agonize over their best course of action.
Strangely enough, this is one of the few import games that you actually can play solitaire. With no hidden cards, no secret allocations, etc,. one can try out different strategies ('go for the treasures', 'excavate the temples', 'best camp placement', etc.) by themselves.
Overall, TIKAL is a solid game, that is just a notch short of greatness in my book. It's a valuable addition to my gaming collection, and a title that I'll look forward to playing in the years to come...
Tikal is a game of exploration, with expeditions mapping a Mayan city and cataloging its treasures. It is also the recipient of the Spiel des Jahre, Germany's highest gaming honor. It had stiff competition in its fellow finalists, Giganten and Union Pacific, but edged them out in atmosphere and ease of play.
With few innovations of its own, Tikal takes a tip from its own subject matter and reaps the benefits of prior games. Elements of play can trace their heritage to other notable games, like The Settlers of Catan and Mississippi Queen (the random hex map), Samurai (the influence on temple hexes), and even Elfenland/Elfengold (bidding on limited resources, in this case the hexes). These elements are combined in a game that is not only beautiful to look at, but satisfying to play.
One especially nice touch is that all players have exactly the same resources available, which makes the game nicely balanced. Unlike Settlers of Catan, all locations in Tikal are potentially available to all players. Even new players stand a sporting chance.
Highly recommended for family gamers, and a nice diversion for hardcore strategy gamers.
This game has a great deisgn, nice theme, interesting opportunities and lots of possibilities throughout your turn. Looks great so far, doesn't it?
But this game also has loads of downtime. With 4 or 5 players, you only have 5 to 6 turns. This wouldn't be a problem if you could also have a piece of the action if it is not your turn (Like Settlers for instance) but that's not the case. And with ten precious action points to spare during each turn, you don't have to be a think-tank to keep on rethinking on how to spent the points.
To sum it up : this is a 4 to 5 star game if it wasn't for the downtime. Best variant would be to get as many Tikal games out as there are players and play on all boards simultaneously.
I have played several games of Tikal with several different groups. The design is perfect. The game play may be unique. It's playable with 2 players which is very positive. Rules are very clear. These are positive points, but what I do not get is the satisfaction of the victory. It just doesn't give it as Settlers or Tigris & Euphrates gives.
I first played this game at a party. There were numerous other games to play as well. Four of us got stuck with Tikal, and everyone of us was bored for the next hour and a half. It seemed to drag on. Nobody cared who would win, as long as it was over. I would suggest instead Settlers of Catan (Seafarers, Knights & Cities), or Carcassonne: Hunters & Gatherers.
After the numerous positive reviews and press this game received, to say that I was disappointed when I finally got to play Tikal would be a huge understatement.
The first few times we played I'll admit that I was dazzled by the quality of the shiny new game pieces. However, the facination quickly wore off as game after game was dragged down into a morass of downtime as players inevitably tried to maximize movement points and tile positions. This trend is only excaerbated when one of the infamous volcano scoring tiles is drawn.
We recently gave the game one last try with the optional auction varient, hoping that that might save this game from being put on permanent closet patrol, but, no, it simply makes a slow game slower.
I'm no game designer, but the idea of letting players attempt to maximize their positions when scoring rounds show up seems to be a game killer, especially in a game with SO many ways to move! Torres, and El Grande to a lesser extent, seem to pull this off without destroying the game flow entirely, but Tikal does not. As soon as that volcano shows up, go order a pizza or turn on the tube 'cause you can bet it's gonna be awhile.
A much more preferable method, in my opinion, is the scoring system used in games like Union Pacific, in which players know there are going to be scoring rounds, but you don't know exactly when, and, more importantly, you can't do anything once they happen!
In conclusion, this is not a game for impatient gamers. Even when it is your turn, there are so many options and movement points to use, you may find yourself simply blowing through them to get the game over with in a finite amount of time!
As Homer Simpson would say, this game is 'Booooor-ing'
I've played Tikal quite a few times over a fairly broad period of time, but I can't find myself being as enthused to play this game as I usually am when it comes to one of the many games my group tends to play.
The game itself has a fairly good premise, but overall, I tend to find myself bored while playing the game. There's the occasional skirmish between folks over controlling temples and getting treasure, but it's just not very exciting to me.
Tikal is worth trying to gauge your interest, but it's not an instant hit with everyone.
I've had this game for over a year and I've played it several times. It has won numerous awards and many gamers I know think it's a classic. Well, I just don't get it. The quality of the game is excellent, the premise makes you want to like the game, but the gameplay is... well... boring.
I have visited the famous ruins of Tikal and opened this game with great anticipation. The board, the bits and the graphics don't disappoint, but the game play does. After a few turns the excitement dies down. I think you could win the game by scoring your 10 action points every turn and not doing anything.
Perhaps my expectations were too high, but this just doesn't cut it compared to my favourites (Modern Art, El Grande and Caesar & Cleopatra)
I was very pleased with the standard of production in this game, and after reading several rave reviews I was looking forward to playing it very much.
However, whilst this might be very good for families with younger children, it seems to leave adults wondering what all the fuss is about.
Like all too many games, it only seems to work well when the maximum number of players are taking part; with any fewer there is no pressure to compete.
It's a bit like A1 Sauce. You won't see a Steak House without a bottle of the stuff on the table. With all the hype and talk about it you try it and wonder what all the shouting is about. Later you try it again; it must be good, everyone likes it. Same result. Tikal is one of the best produced games I have seen. The board, the pieces and the atmosphere are done well. I've played the game with several groups and have heard from others who have purchased it and I have to say, the gameplay just isn't that interesting.
This is a game you want to like, and with all the experts shouting from the mountains how good it is, you should. I may have gotten several bad batches of A1 Sauce or in my gaming sessions I've missed something, but compared to say Union Pacific or Torres, this game isn't in the same league. Of course, those of you who have A-1 Sauce in your refrigerator may think differently.
I tried playing this game several times, and every game was finished with a disappointed sigh or a line such as, 'well, what other games do you have?'
First of all, I am a huge fan of Settlers of Catan and I also enjoy El Grande. So I bought Tikal, with expectations that it would be on the same level of quality. At first I was very excited because the game components were truely top-notch! There was even a fantastic storage tray that kept everything well organized and maximized quick game setup. But after playing it, my level of excitement dropped. First of all, the gameplay did offer the choice of many different decisions to make with each turn. However, the novel gameplay quickly became less and less interesting which left all of us with a feeling that the game was just dragging. The games we played usually had one player far in the lead and it was extremely difficult to stop him. The rest of us had to play through the rest of the game just trying to fight for second or third place.
I will also say that there isn't as much competitive 'swindle or stab thy neighbor' gameplay as I would have liked. There is much more player interaction in Settlers and El Grande.
I realize that the greatly reduced tension and cutthroat competitive feel may also be a bright point in the game that would make it an excellent family game. Unfortunately, this is not a feature that I particularly prefer.
So in summary, this game is a mild-nature game that is essentially a race style game. If you enjoy a light-hearted game with a few giggles here and there then this game is probably for you. If you are looking for a game that is more challenging or thrilling to play, that actually gives you a feel that you have more of a chance to undermine the leader and bring him down to equal footing rather than spending the entire game playing 'catch-up', then I would suggest to look elsewhere.
I can see that this game will spend many years in my closet collecting dust until I have a few children of my own to play it with.
Our favorite family strategy game from last year still "tikals" our fancy. Starting from a small clearing in a corner of the board, use the hexagonal tiles to explore a jungle rich with tempting treasures and mysterious temples. You, as an underfunded explorer, need to move, hire workers, excavate temples, take treasures, add tents, and compete with other explorers. Unfortunately, your allotted 10 action points just will not suffice. Too bad. Volcano hexes erupt into scoring rounds. To obliterate any traces of randomness, try the variant in which the hexagonal tiles are auctioned off. This is a game that is beautifully produced and well-integrated with its theme.
Germany's Game of the Year is a brilliant production that fits its theme extraordinarily well. Also our choice for Best in Family Strategy, it boasts a gorgeous gameboard, attractive pieces and intense, fascinating gameplay. The board starts out as a jungle which is cleared, little by little, as members of each expedition search for and claim objects of value. Each player in turn picks and plays a hexagon, which represents a clearing.
Some hexagons have temples, which you can slowly excavate to earn extra points. Some hold treasures you can purchase. Some are clearings on which you may pitch a tent and subsequently add workers without trudging all the way from base camp. A scoring round erupts when a Volcano hex appears.
You get 10 Action Points per turn with which to pay the costs of getting treasures, excavating temples, adding tents, bringing more workers onto the board, or just moving from hex to hex. You will quickly discover that 10 Action Points are not enough to do even half the things you want to.
This is a masterpiece that both casual and fanatic gamers will enjoy. For an even keener battle, try the Auction Variation, where players bid for one of a selection of faceup hexagons.
Tikal will bring out the inner explorer in you, and you won't even need mosquito netting or a pith helmet.
Your jeep bounces crazily as you zip along the secret path to the lost Mayan temple you discovered not two days ago. It's been a race to uncover the temple's riches, and you know that time is short. Soon your competitors will discover your find and will try to wrest control of it from you by swarming the site with workers of their own. Can you excavate the site and hold onto it long enough to claim the discovery as your own?
In Ravensburger's new game, Tikal, you play the part of an Expedition Leader looking to unearth as many riches as possible in the Mayan site named Tikal. Each player attempts to control as many treasures and temples as he can over four scoring rounds. The player best able to use his limited resources to outmaneuver his opponents is declared the winner.
Mmmmm... can you smell it? That's atmosphere, baby. Tikal's got it to burn. The whole package adds up to a game that feels nicely integrated with its theme. The board, the jungle tiles, the temple and treasure counters, the player aids -- all done up in suitably Mayan-like graphics. The bits are all gorgeous and they sure are plentiful. And the nicest part -- they all come in a box that has a tray insert that's specially designed to hold the components. Very classy.
First, there's the board. It's big and sturdy, with nice jungle graphics on it and a scoring track running around the outside of it. It has hexes overlaid on it where the jungle tiles will be placed. The lower left-hand corner has four hexes already filled in. These depict a central base camp that anyone can use to deploy workers and two temples that are up for grabs in the beginning of the game.
Next come the jungle tiles. These big hexes depict one of four things; plain jungle, temples, treasure sites, and volcanoes. On the back of each jungle hex is a letter of the alphabet -- they're in groups so that higher-numbered temples come out later in the game, and they divide the volcano tiles (Tikal's version of Wertung cards) up so that the scoring rounds are spaced evenly throughout the game. Each jungle tile can have from one to three "stepping stones" on each of its six sides -- these are used to calculate the cost to move from one hex to its neighbor.
Then we have the temple and treasure counters. The temple counters are placed on temple tiles that have been placed on the board, and represent the efforts of an expedition to uncover more of a temple, thereby finding more riches. The treasure counters are placed on the treasure tiles as they're laid on the board - each treasure tile depicts how many of the counters are placed on it when it is placed. Once all of the treasure counters have been claimed from a treasure site, that's it.
Finally, each player has a wooden base camp, a number of workers (little wooden cylinders) and one expedition leader (a big wooden cylinder). These are used for exploration, digging, treasure acquisition, and temple guarding.
To start a round, a number of jungle tiles are turned up and "auctioned" off. Each player starts with 20 points on the scoring track. The players then take turns bidding for the right to select the first jungle tile, using their victory points as "cash". Once a player wins the auction, he places his jungle tile next to any already placed jungle tile (the four filled-in hexes in the lower left-hand corner are considered 'already placed'). Thus, the board fills in from left to right. Each player then has 20 Action Points to spend on various actions.
It costs 1 AP to move a worker from your reserves to a base camp. It costs APs equal to the number of "stepping stones" a worker must cross to move a worker from one hex to the next. If there are no stepping stones in the direction the worker wishes to go, he can not cross on that hex. Thus, it can cost from one to six APs to move a worker were you want him to go. One of the keys to stymieing your opponents is the placement of jungle hexes so as to allow yourself easy access to a nice juicy treasure trove, while ensuring that the cost for them to move a worker in is prohibitive.
You may place your base camp on any clear jungle tile at a cost of 5 AP. This allows you to bring your workers in to that camp, as opposed to the camp at the lower left-hand corner of the board. Since the temple values increase as the board fills in from left to right, it soon becomes prohibitive to move a worker from your reserves to the new areas, so it's important that you establish your new base camp closer to the right side of the board.
Each temple tile depicts a partially uncovered temple with a number of the top of it. When a scoring round occurs, whoever has the majority of workers at the site scores that number of points. There are a few wrinkles added to this. First, a player may spend 2 AP to have a worker dig down to another layer of the temple. This allows the player to place a temple counter on top of the temple, increasing the number on top of it by one. The player may also place a guard on the temple at a cost of 5AP, and only if he has the majority of workers at the site. If a player opts to do this, he places one of his workers on top of the temple, and the rest of his workers at the site go back to his reserves -- which can be a serious hit, since you spent a lot of APs to get those guys where they were, so one must be careful to try and move workers off site prior to doing that if possible. Once a temple is guarded, it can only be scored by the guarding player. A player may only place two guards per game.
A player may also have his workers recover treasure. When a treasure tile is laid, a number of treasure counters equal to the icons on the tile are placed face-down on the tile. A player may move a worker there and spend 3 AP per worker to have each worker recover one treasure. Each treasure counter is worth one point. However, there are eight different types of treasure counters, and if you can get matching sets you'll do better. A pair is worth 3 points and a triplet is worth 6 points. You may at any time on your turn do a forced exchange of treasure counters with another player at a cost of 3AP. However, you may never break up another player's pairs or triplets.
When a volcano tile is chosen (not drawn) by someone, then a scoring round occurs. The player who chose the volcano tile goes first, and scoring then proceeds in a clockwise fashion. Each player gets a 'free' 10 AP to spend prior to scoring, and then that player's position is scored. Thus, the scoring round is very fluid and dynamic, and a single temple could be scored many times. Once everyone has scored, the player of the volcano places the volcano tile (now a 'dead' space, acting only as a blocker since no passage is allowed through the volcano) and takes his turn as normal. There are three scoring rounds, and after the last jungle tile is placed there is one final scoring round.
Tikal got a lot of play at this year's Gathering of Friends, and the reaction was very positive. The few negative comments I heard centered on the down time between each player's turn. The game is very fluid and a lot can change between each player's turn, so that you are somewhat forced to wait until your turn to do any serious planning. Since you only have 10 AP to spend, it can lead to 'perfect planners' going into vapor lock, staring at the board as they compute the optimal actions to take. As usual, my advice to you is to lean in, get nice and close to them, and scream 'ARE YOU DONE YET?!?' as loudly as you possibly can. Do this every three minutes until they get the hint.
Tikal has tons of flavor, allowing you to easily fall into the role of an Indian Jones-style character during play -- 'The Cross of Coranado will stay with ME, thank you very much!', said as you snatch the match to your treasure pair from another player. The bits are gorgeous and when the board is nearly finished, you can't help but admire how beautiful it is. It's got absorbing gameplay and allows you to storm in, cap off a temple your friend has been building up for turns, beat up his workers, and take control of his temple -- all the while laughing like some mad treasure-crazed fool. What more could you ask for? Recommended.


text: The very best of today with the biggest hits of the 80's and 90's. Latest News Level 3 Evacs for Suncrest Fire off North Road in Peshastin City of Wenatchee Update Chelan County Officials Awaiting Planning Commission, State on Marijuana Recommendations Arts Corner – New Centennial Park Mural August 26 What Happened Today VIEW MORE NEWS Local Events Geology Tours (Second Saturdays, April through October) Historical Walking Tour in Leavenworth Historical Walking Tour in Leavenworth Knight Fright Ride VIEW MORE EVENTS Social KOHO 101 33 minutes ago Level 3 evacuation orders are in place for dozens of homes on and near North Road between Leavenworth and Peshastin. It's being called the Suncrest Fire and "Get out now" notices are in place for North Road between Peshastin and Chumstick, as well as Suncrest Drive, Fox Road, Cemetery Road, Rabbit Lane and Anderson Road. The Central Washington Interagency Command Center has two helicopters making water drops. We have unconfirmed reports of one home on fire. Tune in to KOHO 101 FM at 5 p.m. for more. ... See MoreSee LessView on FB·ShareKOHO 101 43 minutes ago We're working to get exact details on evacuations. Most are along North Road. The fire has gone third alarm and structure protection is underway. ... See MoreSee LessView on FB·ShareView on FB

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Christina Aguilera sings the national anthem before the NFL football Super Bowl XLV game between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Feb. 6, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Aguilera said she flubbed a line as she belted out the national anthem at the start of the Super Bowl on Sunday night after getting lost in the moment and losing her place.(AP Photo/David J. Phillip)


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Iconic musical instrument manufacturer first in industry to provide program thanks to company's modular designs
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (March 18, 2014) — Fender is pleased to announce the American Design Experience, an innovative new offering on Fender.com that allows consumers to design electric guitars and basses based on Fender's iconic instruments – the Telecaster®, Stratocaster®, Precision Bass® and Jazz Bass® guitars. Consumers' personalized designs are then built by hand in Fender's flagship Corona, Calif.-based facility and delivered to their door within 90 days.
The Fender American Design Experience began in 2011 at the Fender Visitor Center in Corona, located adjacent to Fender's factory. There, consumers have been able to hand-select instrument bodies and necks, and personally design their own unique instrument, before having it built and delivered to them within a matter of months. Now, Fender is able to provide this program only to people throughout the United States via an innovative digital platform configurator tool on its website at www.fender.com/american-design.
Several professional artists have designed their own personalized instruments with the American Design Experience, including Neon Trees' Branden Campbell, The Cult's Billy Duffy, thenewno2's Dhani Harrison, Joe Robinson, and Taylor Swift's Amos Heller. Consumers can view these artists' personal designs, and others', on Fender's website for design inspiration.
"This is an opportunity to create something that is at once iconic and uniquely yours," said Heller. … "The (American Design Experience) allows me to express myself not only with my playing, but with the design of the instrument itself."
Company founder and music industry innovator, Leo Fender, created some of the most successful and beloved instruments of the 20th century thanks, in part, to his steadfast dedication to an instrument's form and function, which ultimately led to their unique modular designs allowing players to modify various elements of their instruments quickly and easily.
"I've always loved the vintage hot rod vibe that Fender brings with their guitars," said Campbell. "I've often had to buy two different basses to piece together all the features I wanted. Now, I have the option to get what I want the first time."
Within the new online offering, there are multiple options – including body and neck woods and designs, color finishes, pickup and electronics configurations, and more – that lead the user to more than a million potential design outcomes.
"We live in an era of personalization, and few things make a greater statement about people than the music they listen to – your music and how it represents your individual identity," said Justin Norvell, vice president of Marketing for Fender. "Fender's entire existence embodies that very concept, because its instruments have always been modular in construction, which has always made them ideal for individual personalization. And the online American Design Experience is the next level of that whole concept – built to an individual player's specs straight from the factory floor."
Fender American Design Experience instruments are backed by the company's limited lifetime warranty, and come with an upgraded hardshell case, a certificate of authenticity with a dedicated serial number, an official Fender product manual, a collectible American Design Experience booklet, strap, polishing cloth, instrument cable and adjustment wrenches.
Consumers are encouraged to share their personal instrument designs with their friends on Facebook, Twitter or Google+, or save their designs to be built at a later date. For more information and to begin designing a Fender American Design Experience instrument, visit www.fender.com/american-design.
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About Fender Musical Instruments Corporation Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is one of the world's leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors, whose portfolio of brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch®, Jackson®, Takamine®, Guild®, EVH®, Ovation®, Charvel® and Groove Tubes®, among others. For more information, visit www.fender.com.
KMCMusicorp, a division of FMIC, is a leading manufacturer and distributor of musical instruments, accessories and stage lighting equipment, whose brands include Gretsch® Drums, Gibraltar® Hardware, Latin Percussion®, Toca® Percussion, Sabian® cymbals and MBT™ Lighting, among others. For more information, visit www.kmcmusic.com.
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Here are some pics from The Burgess wedding I did in June 2011. Enjoyed being with this couple for engagement shoot and their wedding day.
Went to the Windy City last week to visit Ashley and Mrs. Molly. It was perfect timing because it turned out to be just us girls at the house. It was a very quick trip but I am extremely grateful for the few days I got to spend with them. Monday was the day I flew in and got settled in. Tuesday we went to Swedish Days in Geneva and I got to see my buddies Tiffany and Ashley in St. Charles. Wednesday was our downtown Chicago day topped off with a baseball game between Crosstown Rivals. Thursday came before I knew it and I was back on a plane to Greenville. Some of the major highlights are below in pics (as if I would do it any other way)!
Mrs. Molly made me my own Ice Cream cake that Ashley always talks about. Cookies and Cream…
Walking around Swedish Days in Geneva with Ashley…
And the finished product – HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY TO ME!🙂
Me and the bestie at Myles' hockey game against the old people. PS – It was FREEZING in there!
My buddy Tonka hanging out in Ashley's room! He would come in and get in bed with me every morning.
We met up with Kayla in the city and walked around all day long. This was all of us at the BEAN in Millennium Park.
The City Skyline in the reflection of the BEAN. Such a cool picture!
We walked so many blocks to get down to Navy Pier. We ended up walking through there and eating at Margaritaville. Then we headed to find the Redline to get down to the Whitesox Stadium.
Saying goodbye was not my favorite by any mean!
Hanging with Ashley by Fox River in St. Charles.
These are just a few highlights from that trip. I enjoyed every minute of it.
Last week I went out to Phoenix, Arizona for the annual Southern Baptist Convention with Clark and Skip. The cool thing is that one of my senior volleyball girls from CSU is from Phoenix so I had a native tour guide while out there. The flight went from Charleston to Houston to Phoenix. As you know I love taking pictures so I tried to document as many of the sights as I could. You might recall seeing some on facebook or twitter and in the last post I shared some of the pictures from Chase Baseball Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. In flight... (Flight over Arizona.) (First time I've flown Southwest Airlines - It worked out well!) (Looking over Arizona) Sights to see... (Lookout from the top of South Mountain) (The mountains of Phoeniz) (Me standing beside the Cactus on the side of South Mountain) (Drove through ASU - Arizona State University) (Me and Tricia at the top of South Mountain) (Decided to see one of my favorite shows ever, ANNIE, at the local theater.) (Arizona Diamondbacks game with Clark against the Giants) (Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks) and US Airways Center (Phoenix Suns) arenas from my hotel) CSU Business at the SBC 2011... (I opened about 1000 of these individually packaged yo-yos) (These cute kids who came by the booth to get a yo-yo) Random pictures that don't belong... (Rev. Billy Combover) (Diggin' the hair-do dude!) (Where can I get me one of those outfits?) (How many people can you pack on the light rail train?) (Mladin - The hotel security officer! My new crush!)
It has been quite a while since I've spent any time on the blog. I figured while I was uploading some of the pictures from my phone right now I would take a minute to post a blog. Here is this Friday's foto…
This is Erin…she has been like a little sister to me since 2007. It is hard to believe that she is a senior in high school this year. She and her friend, Jessica, came down to Charleston this week to visit and to crash on my couch during their Spring Break. It is always fun to see Erin (or any of the Taylors for that matter). I look forward to watching you grow up little Sissy!
Today is that day when I think about a picture that stands out to me that either sums up my life that week, something I am hopeful for, or a cool picture I've snapped a long the way.
It's so hard to decide which picture stands out to me the most…
This is my nephew. He came down from playing upstairs after church and was dressed in full gear. I love his imagination and confidence.


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Downton Abbey characters drawn as dogs and cats JAN 05 2013
These are all so perfect but I'm having a hard time deciding which is the most perfect....the Mrs Patmore tabby or the Dowager Countess Sphynx?
Prints are $22 a pop on Etsy and likely to go quickly. (via @mathowie)


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Cathedral Catholic is ranked No. 18 by MaxPreps.com in its Xcellent Baseball 25 national preseason ratings. The Dons, the San Diego Section Division III defending champions with seven players committed to Division I colleges, are the No. 1 team in the Union-Tribune's preseason rankings. Las Vegas Bishop Gorman is ranked No. 1 nationally by MaxPreps.com. El Toro of Lake Forest is the highest rated team from California at No. 6.
BG being ranked #1 in the country is a joke. I'm sorry but outside of them and Green Valley, no one in Nevada could come within 3 runs of beating any of the top 10 teams in San Diego county, let alone California. I've watched games in Vegas, and the level of competition isn't even close to what it is in San Diego, Orange, and Riverside counties.
How do you not have the top 25 listed at the bottom of this article? are you joking?


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Canadian rock legends RUSH will be the featured guests on the nationally syndicated radio show "Rockline" airing Wednesday, December 14. The live show begins at 8:30 p.m. PT / 11:30 p.m. ET, and fans are encouraged to call in with questions during the program at (800) 344-ROCK (7625). To find a station near you, check out www.rocklineradio.com.RUSH's "R30: 30th Anniversary World Tour" DVD was released on November 22 via Rounder in the United States and Anthem in Canada; Sanctuary Visual Entertainment issued it November 28 in Europe. It was recorded September 24, 2004 at Festhalle in Frankfurt, Germany. In addition to featuring 22 tracks from the show, "R30: 30th Anniversary World Tour" comes with a second disc, which collects a multitude of rarely seen bits from the RUSH archives, including studio footage from 1978, a soundcheck from 1980, and a recent rendition of "Closer to the Heart" with BARENAKED LADIES' Ed Robertson. The is also available as a deluxe edition, which includes two audio CDs of the Frankfurt concert, as well as various goodies, such as limited edition Dunlop guitar pick and a backstage pass.
RUSH Schedule 'Rockline' Appearance
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calvin klein jeans shoes
Calvin Klein Jeans shoes offer men's and women's styles to parallel the quality and dedication the brand has maintained from the beginning. Calvin Klein Jeans shoes are crafted with care, delivering a consistently high-quality shoe in today's most sought-after styles. You'll find several variations of boots, moccasins, slip-ons and more. And Calvin Klein Jeans shoes come in a variety of classic soft suedes, luxurious leathers, and hand crafted fabrics sure to meet your fashion needs.
You'll get the look and feel of a perfect shoe when you step into a pair crafted by Calvin Klein Jeans. Go ahead and take a look at ShoeMall's collection of Calvin Klein Jeans shoes, and see what all the buzz is about.
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Race cars
Free Printable Reward Chart
Does your child like everything related to cars and races? Our Racing Cars chart will be perfect for him/her! Download the fun-things-to-do-list and discuss together which behaviour will be rewarded and for which rewards he/she wants to save up.
Click on the reward chart to print or to download it.
Find some examples of rewards below:
This information was written by Heleen van Huijkelom, child psychologist. For more background information click here.


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The 24-year-old has made four appearances for the U's since moving to the Abbey Stadium from York in January.
Chambers is available to play some part in his new side's clash with Exeter on Saturday.
Daggers manager Wayne Burnett told the club's official website: "I'm pleased to have brought Ashley in, he is someone who we hope will enhance the group and help us push on towards the end of the season and I'm looking forward to working with him."
- Soccer
- Sports & Recreation
- Wayne Burnett


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Formally part of the Atomic Energy Authority, Zircotec's high temperature coating and heat barrier processes and technologies were originally developed for the nuclear industry.
Zircotec's involvement in motorsport stretches back to 1994 when the thermal barrier coating was applied to the exhausts and manifold of Subaru rally cars to lower in-cabin temperatures. Since then the high temperature coating has been applied to vehicles from F1 cars to trucks together with an increasing number of applications for prestigious sports car manufacturers looking for thermal management and heat barrier solutions to manage heat from high performance engines.
More recently, Zircotec's ThermoHold® thermal coatings have been proven to be highly successful in the thermal management of high performance and classic car applications, increasing overall reliability and performance.
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Spike Lee does Jordan documentary
From commercials to the big screen – this must be Spike's dream come true! Spike Lee announced that he is working on a documentary on Michael Jordan and hopes to have it ready to screen at next year's Cannes.
Nobody can do it betta than Spike!
(FROM VARIETY) –
Spike Lee announced at Cannes on Monday (May 20) that he is directing a feature-length documentary about basketball superstar Michael Jordan, which he hopes to bring to next year's Cannes Festival. The project will feature previously-unseen footage shot by NBA cameras during the final two years in Jordan's career, the 2001-02 and 2002-03 seasons. Lee and Jordan previously worked together on a series of Nike TV commercials. Lee spoke to a Cannes crowd while showing an eight-minute preview of his upcoming WWII movie, Miracle at St. Anna, about four black soldiers in the U.S. Army's 92nd Division who in 1944 were trapped in a Tuscan village and had to struggle with Nazis as well as their own racist commanders. Based the book by James McBride, Miracle will wrap shooting in July and be released in the U.S. on Oct. 10. (Variety)
Definitely looking forward to that! Think they'll release a limited edition sneaker for the movie???


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Sturm Ruger & Co. VP Thomas Patrick Sullivan unloads 9,532 shares
Sullivan sold 9,532 shares of Sturm Ruger & Co. stock on the open market in a transaction that occured on Thursday, August 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $53.08, for a total transaction of $505,958.56. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 15,000 shares of the company�s stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link.
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The new home of
1 reviews
Pat's Cottage is an attractive, 18th-century, semi-detached stone cottage, adjacent to the owners home, located in Dore, a desirable village placed just five minutes from the stunning countryside of the Peak District National Park, and 20 minutes from the city of Sheffield. The property itself has been sympathetically renovated retaining character and many original features, such as black beams to most rooms and low doors and ceilings. Throughout the summer months, the property is offered with the use of the owner's outdoor heated swimming pool, perfectly placed in a sunny, mainly private location surrounded by a pleasant garden and lawns. Pat's Cottage offers fine walking direct from the door, and is within easy reach of popular Peak District towns and villages, such as Hathersage, Hope, Castleton, Baslow and Bakewell. Ladybower Reservoir and the magnificent historic buildings of Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall can also be reached in under 30 minutes. Dore village itself is just a 5-minute walk, and steeped in history being the location of a battle fought for England's Crown. There are two excellent public houses serving traditional meals, and two first class restaurants for that special occasion. There are also good local shops, including a small supermarket, delicatessen, butchers, bank with multi cash point, hairdressers and of course a fish and chip shop. In addition, Sheffield has all the shopping and entertainment a good city offers, and for those wanting to leave the car at home is a direct 10-minute train journey from Dore station, which is located just 1½ miles from the door. Shop, pub and restaurant 350 yards.
Ground floor: Living room. Dining room/kitchen. Steep, narrow stairs to first floor: 1 double bedroom. Shower room with toilet. Steep, open-sided, narrow stairs to second floor: 1 twin bedroom. Most rooms with beams.
Electric central heating, gas, electricity, bed linen and towels included. Cot and high chair on request. 32" Freeview TV. DVD. CD. Gas hob. Electric oven. Microwave. Washing machine. Broadband. Shared, lawned garden. Patio with sitting-out area and furniture. Gas barbecue. Parking (1 car). Shared, outdoor heated swimming pool (10m x 5m, depth 1m to 2.3m), open mid-May - early-September. No smoking. NB: 2 steps in garden.
2 reviews
"Fine cottages and facilities – in a county of unspoilt landscapes, deep dales and winding rivers...""Fine cottages and facilities – in a county of unspoilt landscapes, deep dales and winding rivers . . ."
This fine courtyard of old stone barns was part of a working farm, but has now been sensitively converted to offer sixteen beautifully furnished and well-equipped cottages. Boasting a wealth of original features, they enjoy shared use of a rich choice of leisure facilities, including a superb indoor heated swimming pool in an adjacent, purpose-designed building. With a shallow area for children, the pool has its own changing rooms and a sauna, and there is a separate games room within the pool building where wi-fi is available. Brackendale Spa is an independent facility offering luxurious treatments, which guests can book by contacting the spa directly. There are two conference/dining rooms to accommodate large groups, and a separate laundry room with automatic washing machine and tumble dryer. Close to the cottages are patio and barbecue areas. All set in 3 acres of shared grounds, offering a children's play area and plenty of space in which to relax.This is an ideal setting for a Peak District holiday. Knockerdown Farm is conveniently situated on the road between Ashbourne and Matlock, within walking distance of beautiful Carsington Water, a superb windsurfing and sailing centre, which has an area devoted to wildlife and nature conservancy. Throughout the year they have special fun days for children of all ages. At the water sports centre guests can hire (with tuition) kayaks, windsurfers, Canadian canoes and bicycles. Professional fly fishing is available to enable guests to try their hand at fishing this popular, well-stocked reservoir. Fine walking country is virtually on the doorstep, and the renowned Tissington and Middleton cycle trails are both close by (with bikes available to hire). The principal centres of the Derbyshire Dales are nearby - Wirksworth, the market town of Ashbourne, attractive Bakewell (of pudding fame) and Matlock: all are fascinating ancient towns. Matlock Bath (6 miles) is popular as an inland resort, standing on the River Derwent amid lovely scenery, and offering boating, angling, bowls, tennis and cricket. The young (and the young at heart) will enjoy a day out at the National Tramway Museum - where visitors may enjoy the fun experience of trams from around the world! Magnificent Chatsworth House (16 miles) boasts a famous collection of art treasures as well as beautiful gardens. Haddon Hall (13 miles) is England's most complete and authentic medieval house dating back to the 14th century. It is set in lovely countryside overlooking the River Wye, near Bakewell, which houses one of the National Park's information centres. One of Britain's premier theme parks, Alton Towers is within easy reach. It is set amongst appealing countryside close to the picturesque village of Alton and offers a fun-packed day out for all the family. There are several country inns within walking distance. Shop 5 miles, pub and restaurant 100 yards.
Living/dining room. Kitchen. Double bedroom with en-suite shower room and toilet. Twin bedroom. Bathroom with toilet.
2 reviews
"Fine cottages and facilities – in a county of unspoilt landscapes, deep dales and winding rivers . . ."
Spacious open plan living/dining room with kitchen area and French doors leading to patio area. First floor: Two double bedrooms, each with 6ft zip and link bed (can be twin); one with en-suite shower room and toilet. Bathroom with toilet.
11 reviews
Ground Floor: Property has gas central heating and comprises: Kitchen/Dining Area: With electric oven and gas hob, fridge/freezer and microwave. Dining table seat six Lounge: With open fire, TV with Free view channels, DVD and video
First Floor: Bedroom 1: With double bed Bedroom 2: With twin beds Bathroom: With shower over bath, WC and wash basin
All electricity, gas, logs, bed linen and towels included. Cot and high chair available on requestPrivate garden area and ample car parking space. Washer and dryer available. Adjacent building with swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and games room. Young children are restricted to age four plus in the pool area and must be supervised at all times.
5 reviews
These two delightful holiday cottages enjoy a charming position on the slopes of the Derwent Valley, with lovely views. Restored and refurbished to high standards, they enjoy shared use of an indoor heated swimming pool and unlimited, free use of a small golf course, set in 8 acres (plays 9 holes) by prior arrangement. Bakewell is just 4 miles away, an attractive market town with a choice of shops, inns and restaurants. Providing a point of interest for visitors, The Old House Museum displays a selection of rustic tools and costumes from Bakewell's past, whilst for walkers, the Monsal Trail proves rewarding - spanning about eight miles and passing through some wonderful limestone valleys as it wends its way north to Wyedale. There are many fine country houses and interesting National Trust properties nearby, including Chatsworth House (Chatsworth Park is within walking distance). Built by the first Duke of Devonshire in the 17th century, it is set within vast grounds, landscaped by Capability Brown, and boasts the magnificent Emperor Fountain. Haddon Hall, 2 miles south of Bakewell, stands on the banks of the River Wye, and whilst not as grand as Chatsworth, stands as a fine example of a medieval manor house. The NT also owns several proeprties in the area, which make for worthwhile visits - including Sudbury Hall at Ashbourne (a late 17th-century house with sumptuous interiors, housing the Museum of Childhood within the service wing), and Hardwick Hall and Stainsby Mill, at Doe Lea, Chesterfield. Ilam Park (running along the River Manifold, with spectacular views towards Dovedale), and High Peak Estate (a vast area of outstanding walking country) also come under NT ownership and provide wonderful walking opportunities. For watersports enthusiasts, Carsington Water is within easy reach, with sailing, wind-surfing and canoeing all available. Matlock 6 miles, with swimming, cycle hire and golf. Shops ½ mile.
In superbly maintained landscaped gardens, with panoramic views of the Derwent Valley, this cottage is attached to the owner's home, with its own enclosed garden. Well-equipped kitchen. Bathroom with over-bath shower and toilet. Beamed sitting/dining room with 'living-flame' gas stove. First floor: Double bedroom. Twin bedroom.
Note: The Roundhouse QWQ and Woodside Cottage QCG may be booked together to sleep 9 people.
0 reviews
"Fine cottages and facilities – in a county of unspoilt landscapes, deep dales and winding rivers . . .""Fine cottages and facilities – in a county of unspoilt landscapes, deep dales and winding rivers . . ."
Spacious open plan living/dining room with kitchen area and French doors opening onto patio. First floor: Two double bedrooms, each with 6ft zip and link bed (can be twin); one with shower room and toilet. Bathroom with toilet.
4 reviews
This unique octagonal 'Roundhouse' is a modern and recently completed property attached to the owner's beautiful home, and has an open aspect, overlooking the golf course. Spacious living room with dining area and 'living-flame' gas fire. Compact fitted kitchen. Double bedroom with sitting area and en-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath, bidet and toilet. Shower room and toilet. Wide, open-tread, spiral staircase to first floor: Gallery landing overlooking living room with two bedrooms; one twin and one small single. Bathroom with toilet.
5 reviews
Ground floor entrance with stairs to first floor: Sitting-room with dining area. Spacious fitted kitchen. Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom and over-bath shower with toilet. Twin bedroom. Bathroom with over-bath shower and toilet. Second floor: Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom and toilet.
Note: Sabinhay ref QUY and Bruns ref RHHG have an internal interconnecting door
Spacious open plan living/dining room with kitchen area. First floor: Double bedroom. Twin bedroom. Bunk bedroom. Bathroom with over-bath shower and toilet.
6 reviews
''...imbued with noble history...set in a dramatic and varied landscape...''
Take a beautiful Peak District National Park setting, just 3½ miles from Bakewell, add a historic hall (first recorded in the Domesday Book), and an ancient cluster of listed buildings converted to form superb holiday cottage accommodation....and the result is the captivating blend that is Harthill Hall. Nestling in 14 acres of grounds on an upland called Priest's Hill with excellent walking available from the doorstep, the properties have the use of an extensive range of leisure facilities including an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, solarium and treatment rooms. Noble names have woven the threads of the hall's long history including Henry de Ferrers, the Cokaynes and the Harthills. Henry VIII is also believed to have stayed at the hall. It was here in 1259 that Sir Richard de Hartle was issued a Papal Bull by Pope Alexander II, allowing him to appoint his own chaplain. The chapel ceased its functions as a place of worship in 1546 and now takes the form of The Chapel and Hartle Cottage. The eight cottages are furnished with antiques and surround a medieval cobbled courtyard. They all retain a wealth of original features including thick stone walls, large oak beams, mullion windows and flagstone floors. Derbyshire's bustling market towns, villages, hills, dales and rivers offer majestic scenery, and a rich variety of customs. Boasting a varied and beautiful landscape, they offer a blend of heritage, history and family attractions. The beautiful market town of Bakewell (3½ miles) is situated on the River Wye, crossed by a 13th-century five-arched bridge which has coffee shops and restaurants. Within easy reach are Matlock, Hall Leys Park, Chesterfield, Alfreton and Buxton. National Trust properties and gardens nearby include Riley Graves, Longshaw, Mam Tor, South Peak, Dovedale, Hardwick Hall and Kedleston Hall. Close by are both Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall. Games room with free wireless internet connection (1gb per day per device). Golf and horse riding are available within 5 miles. Shop 3½ miles, pub 1 mile.
A 13th-century building dating from 1296 with magnificant displays of medieval stonework. Step to flagstoned entrance. Living room with mullion windows. Dining room with exposed stonework and flagstone floor. Kitchen with gas/electric range (for cooking) medieval stonework, mullion windows, flagstone floor and door with steps leading to south-facing terrace. First floor: Two double bedrooms, one with Victorian brass bed and TV, one with antique oak four-poster bed and en-suite bathroom with toilet. Twin bedroom (can be double by prior arrangement). Bathroom with over-bath shower and toilet.
SUPERB ADDITIONAL FACILITIESEach property at Harthill Hall has one hour of private use of the facilities per day booked on site
1 reviews
Open plan living/dining room and kitchen with French doors to decked balcony. Double bedroom with 6ft zip and link bed (can be twin) and en-suite bathroom and toilet. First floor: Three double bedrooms (6ft), each with zip and link bed (can be twin); one with en-suite bathroom with toilet, one with en-suite shower room and toilet. Bathroom with toilet.
13 reviews
Ground Floor: Bedroom 1: With double bed and en suite with shower, WC and wash basin. Bedroom 2: With twin beds Bedroom 3: With bunk beds Bathroom: With shower, WC and wash basin.
First Floor: Property has gas central heating and comprises: Lounge/Kitchen/Diner: With TV, DVD, sofa bed, table and chairs, gas hob, electric oven, fridge/freezer and microwave
All fuel, heating, power, bed linen and towels included. Cot and high chair available on request. Sofa bed for additional sleeping.Parking for 3 cars. Shared BBQ and garden furniture in sitting area. Use of 8m x 4m (approx) indoor heated swimming pool. Shared washing machine on site. Private entrance to apartments.
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cottages.com is a trading name of Wyndham Vacation Rentals (UK) Ltd. Registered in England and Wales.
Registered Office: Spring Mill, Stoney Bank Road, Earby, Lancashire,BB94 0AA, UK
Company Registration Number 00965389. VAT Registration Number: GB 598 22 99 77
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cottages.com is the new home of cottages4you (Cottages for You).
cottages.com is a trading name of Wyndham Vacation Rentals (UK) Ltd. Registered in England and Wales.
Registered Office: Spring Mill, Stoney Bank Road, Earby, Lancashire,BB94 0AA, UK
Company Registration Number 00965389. VAT Registration Number: GB 598 22 99 77


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The Morning Ledger: Uncertainty Over Stimulus Plans Makes Markets Jumpy
The Morning Ledger from CFO Journal cues up the most important news in corporate finance every weekday morning. Send us tips, suggestions and complaints: email@example.com. Get The Morning Ledger emailed to you each weekday morning by clicking here. Follow us on Twitter @CFOJournal.
Uncertainty over central banks' thinking is making markets jumpy. For the past few years, the global economy has relied on a few constants, writes the Journal's David Wessel: The U.S. would print plenty of money and keep interest rates very low, while "China would provide a lot of demand and vacuum up commodities from around the world. And Japan was largely irrelevant." Suddenly, all three of those are being questioned in markets, triggering lots of volatility. Yesterday, money streamed out of emerging markets, shaking currencies and sinking stocks, the WSJ reports. Overseas markets are calmer today, but the turbulent trading shows the difficulties investors face trying to figure out when central banks will start to wind down stimulus measures.
Low interest rates have been a reliable fact of life for investors and corporations for years, but as the NYT's Nathaniel Popper and Peter Eavis note, the cost of mortgages has been going up lately and governments now face the prospect of higher borrowing costs down the road. "I think you all should be ready, because rates are going to go up," J.P. Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon told a financial-industry conference in New York yesterday.
The big question, Wessel says, is this: Are we seeing the beginning of a return to normal—a world in which the U.S. economy doesn't need huge doses of stimulus, Japan grows and China slows to a sustainable speed? Or is it a harbinger of more volatility—maybe the result of a premature Fed cutback on easy money—that yields an increase in rates before the U.S. economy achieves "escape velocity"?
Beauty-products conglomerate Coty is set to price its IPO today, marking its long-awaited market debut following delays. The deal could raise up to $1.22 billion, including the possible sale of extra shares to underwriters. That would make it the largest U.S.-listed IPO ever for a consumer-products company. If the offering is successful, some of the credit will go to a U.S. IPO market that has been on a tear lately, the WSJ's Matt Jarzemsky writes.
H&R Block is expected to post a healthy rise in earnings today. Much of the expected improvement should come from revenue the company would have earned a quarter earlier if not for delayed tax filings arising from the "fiscal cliff," Ahead of the Tape's Spencer Jakab notes. Tax-service revenue for that quarter fell 29% from a year earlier.
Markets flash: Asian markets ended lower—Japan just slightly down but Thailand off sharply. European shares are little changed and DJIA futures are higher.
Why CFOs need to be at the heart of IT decisions. The insight of a CFO can be critical when it comes to IT decisions, writes guest contributor James Wilmsen, CFO of Xiolink. Outsourcing IT functions will force internal changes, Wilmsen writes. The CFO should be aware of this change in process and ensure the change is one that benefits the bottom line, in both the near and long term. CFOs also need to get ahead of technological change. "As the CIO and CFO evaluate service providers, they need to explore and appreciate how a potential service partner's understanding of the changing technology landscape can benefit them and their organization." Good CFOs know that IT is the CIO's world. However, technology increasingly permeates all facets of the organization, so the opportunities associated with the cloud and the outsourcing of infrastructure functions are beginning to fall within the purview of the CFO.
CFOs see emerging-market spending outpacing U.S. investment. Global companies are making more investments to chase growth, but CFOs in the U.S. and Europe are less eager than many of their counterparts abroad, reports Emily Chasan. In a new survey by American Express and CFO Research, senior executives based in India, Argentina, Brazil and China were the most likely to say they plan substantial spending and investment increases over the next year. Some 75% of executives in India and Argentina said they expect to make substantial investments, while only 17% of the U.S.-based CFOs said they were likely to substantially increase real spending and investment in the near future—the lowest percentage of any of the countries polled. "Executives in the U.S. tend to be more conservative about investment in the coming year," said Shane Berry, senior vice president of global corporate payments at American Express. "We're seeing significant expense-control mechanisms and policies being put in place around travel and entertainment."
Zuckerberg, Ebersman get grilled by Facebook investors. Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg faced his shareholders for the first time on Tuesday—and many weren't happy, the WSJ's Evelyn M. Rusli reports. With the company's stock nearly 40% below the price of last year's initial public offering, Mr. Zuckerberg took a half-hour of angry questions at the company's first annual shareholders meeting. One investor, who said she bought thousands of shares in the secondary market before the IPO at $35 a share, asked if the company was a bargain at its current price of about $24. CFO David Ebersman replied that the management team doesn't know what the future will bring, but that it's committed to making Facebook a "valuable company." "Do you think another two years?" the shareholder asked. "I wish I had a crystal ball," Mr. Ebersman said.
Dole's 90-year-old CEO plots buyout. Dole CEO David Murdock has offered to buy out the company for roughly $1.5 billion—adding Dole to the list of companies facing a potential buyout by its boss, the WSJ reports. The billionaire Mr. Murdock remains Dole's biggest shareholder, with a 40% stake. The Dole board said it would form a strategic committee of independent directors to evaluate his $12-a-share offer. That price represents an 18% premium to Monday's close but is below Dole's 52-week high of $15.19, reached in September. In a letter to the board, Mr. Murdock blamed the company's falling stock price on a "variety of factors," including "the fact that the company deals in perishable commodities which are subject to external factors that result in unpredictable quarterly earnings."
BofA CFO: Next wave of cost cuts aimed at back-office operations. Bank of America CFO Bruce Thompson said that the bank's remaining cost cuts would be coming from back-office operations and other behind-the-scenes units, the Charlotte Business Journal reports. Speaking at a Morgan Stanley conference, Mr. Thompson said employees who generate revenue for the bank are no longer at risk of being laid off. Instead, BofA has been adding staff in units that deal directly with customers. "At this point the remaining work to be done within new BAC does not touch client-facing people at all," he said. "The remaining work that needs to be done within new BAC is there continues to be, whether it would be back-office technology, support areas, and other areas within the consumer business that need to come down."
CIT CFO sees room for more capital returns to shareholders. CIT Group CFO Scott Parker says his company is eyeing stock buybacks and possibly a dividend after announcing last month its first share-repurchase program in several years, the WSJ reports. The timing and amount of any additional capital returns will hinge on factors including the profitability and regulatory guidelines, Mr. Parker said at the Morgan Stanley conference. CIT, which provides financing to small and midsize businesses, on May 30 announced plans to purchase up to $200 million of its own shares through this year. The plan, which Mr. Parker called an "initial step," coincided with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York's lifting restrictions placed on CIT in 2009, when it ordered the company to beef up its risk-management and compliance procedures and limited the lender's ability to buy back stock or pay a dividend without approval.
Tech companies want to disclose NSA data requests. Google has asked the government for permission to publicly report on the volume and scope of secret federal-court orders that require it to hand over information about its users to the NSA. The request comes after the government last Saturday publicly acknowledged that Internet content companies had received secret Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act requests about the activities of their users, reports the WSJ's Even Perez. Facebook's general counsel, Ted Ullyot, said his company would like to disclose information about such government requests, but that such reports would be "necessarily incomplete and therefore potentially misleading to users" because of U.S. restrictions on what it may disclose.
Employment checks fuel race complaints. The EEOC accused two large employers—a BMW operation and Dollar General—of improperly using criminal-background checks in hiring, the latest salvo in a debate over whether such screening amounts to discrimination against black applicants, the WSJ reports. The suits underscore increasing government scrutiny of criminal and credit checks. But the rules pose challenges for employers, which don't want people convicted of financial crimes handling money or people with violent histories in contact with customers. The EEOC guidelines put "employers between a rock and a hard place," said Alison Marshall, a lawyer at Jones Day who represents employers.
Former Wellcare CFO found guilty of Medicaid fraud. The former CFO and former CEO of Wellcare Health Plans were found guilty by a federal jury in Tampa, Fla., of a scheme to defraud the state's Medicaid program, the WSJ reports. Ex-CEO Todd S. Farha and former CFO Paul L. Behrens were both convicted of two counts of health-care fraud. Mr. Behrens was also convicted of two counts of making false statements relating to health-care matters. According to the Justice Department, the defendants falsely submitted inflated information in order to reduce contractual payback obligations for behavioral health-care services.
Amazon and IBM battle for CIA contract. The battle between IBM and Amazon over a $600 million contract to set up a cloud-computing system for the CIA shows the growing importance of intelligence-agency business for tech companies, the WSJ's Spencer E. Ante reports. The Defense Department, which manages many of the nation's intelligence assets, spent about $35 billion on information technology last year. The bulk of it went to large, older technology companies and contractors such as Raytheon, Hewlett-Packard, Boeing and Computer Sciences. Those companies primarily build and manage computer systems. But the rise of cloud computing has created an opening for less-traditional vendors.
SEC alleges 'systemic' lapses in oversight at CBOE. The SEC fined CBOE Holdings $6 million over allegations it failed to prevent illegal short-selling activities, the WSJ reports. Regulators described what they called a "systemic" breakdown in CBOE's oversight of trading, including the alleged failure to properly enforce federal compliance rules and allegedly interfering with an SEC investigation into possible short-selling violations. It was the first fine ever against an exchange for alleged regulatory-oversight violations, the SEC said. CBOE neither admitted nor denied the SEC charges but agreed to the settlement, a censure and a cease-and-desist order, the SEC said.
Banks catch a break on swaps rule. Some of biggest banks on Wall Street will get an additional two years to comply with a post-financial-crisis rule requiring they move risky swap activities into separate affiliates, the WSJ reports. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency said it granted extensions to seven banks, giving them until July 2015 to comply with so-called "swaps push-out" rules required by Dodd-Frank. While the move was largely expected, the OCC's action could further inflame criticism that much of Dodd-Frank remains undone nearly three years after its passage. As of June 3, just 38% of rules required by Dodd-Frank had been finalized, while 63% of rule-writing deadlines have been missed.
JOBS Act makes little impact. The recent IPO of upscale grocer Fairway is an illustration of the real forces that drive the market for offerings, writes DealBook's Steve M Davidoff. Fairway's selective use of the JOBS Act shows that it is being used to avoid disclosure of information that may cause embarrassment to the company or alert investors of problems. But at the same time, it shows that the law may have allowed companies to get away with not disclosing financial information that investors value, Davidoff says.
- Meru Networks, a wireless networking firm based in Sunnyvale, Calif., hired Brian R. McDonald as its chief financial officer. He succeeds Brett White, who resigned his position but will remain with the company through July 1, according to a press release. Mr. McDonald was most recently CFO of eASIC Inc. At Meru Networks he will receive a base salary of $305,000, a 120,000-share stock grant, and he will have an annual bonus target of 50% of his base, according to a regulatory filing. He will also receive a $40,000 bonus for 2013 under the company's management-bonus plan. Mr. White received compensation in 2012 valued at $657,267, according to a proxy filing.
- Alderon Iron Ore, based in Canada, hired François Laurin as its chief financial officer, effective June 17. He succeeds Keith Santorelli, who resigned to pursue other opportunities, according to a press release. Mr. Laurin was most recently president and CEO of Cap-Ex Iron Ore Ltd.