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(Note: In honor of Hawaii's 50th anniversary of statehood this year, I am posting occasional Hawaii travel stories on this blog.)
It didn't take long to figure out that Herman Kunewa had both a sense of humor and intimate knowledge of Hawaiian ecology.
A hiking guide with Hawaii Forest & Trail, the 49-year-old Kunewa traces his ancestry back 400 years on the Kona coast of the Big Island.
"Most of our beaches are either black sand or white sand," Kunewa said as he drove past the string of five-star resorts on the Kohala coast, bound for the Pololu Valley.
"Black sand comes from lava pounded by waves. White sand comes from coral," he said. "I like black sand best because of the way white sand is made. Parrot fish eat coral and digest it to make white sand. Now you know what you're laying on at a white sand beach."
After his passengers finished chuckling, Kunewa rounded the northern tip of the Big Island and noted how the vegetation changes from desert to tropical rain forest in less than a mile -- prickly pear cactus one minute, yellow hibiscus the next.
The route was familiar because I had driven it two years earlier, parking at road's end high above the Pololu Valley, where the view takes in some of the world's most spectacular sea cliffs. On that trip, I hiked the trail down to the beach, which a lot of people do because it's described in hiking books.
Our destination this time was different. Kunewa was leading us into the forest high above the valley, a trip on private land that requires a guide for access. I was along to find out whether joining a guided trip was worth the expense.
Kunewa made sure that it was.
At 4,028 square miles, the Big Island is larger than the other Hawaiian Islands combined. The island's many outstanding trails can be hiked in the morning, with time for the beach in the afternoon -- either black or white sand, depending on personal preference.
Hiking with a guide book is one thing, but hiking with a guide is quite another -- especially in an exotic place like Hawaii, where the vegetation is so unusual to the eye of tourists from the mainland.
"That's ti," Kunewa said, answering a query about a trailside shrub with long, sharp leaves. "We call it Hawaiian aluminum foil. We use it to wrap food at a luau because the leaf retains heat when we cook fish and pork.
"We also use the sugar in the roots as medicine, or let it ferment into alcohol to ward off bad spirits. When the leaves dry, we use them for sandals, for a poncho to keep warm, or for fish traps."
Next, he pointed to a nettle plant that had evolved beyond the need for nettles, since Hawaii has no native grazing animals. "We dry the leaves, make a tea and drink it to cleanse the blood," he said.
Then he pointed out the kukui tree (the nuts make great torches), the acacia (used for canoes), the pua hala (canoe sails) and the noni (the fruit lowers blood pressure).
It felt as though we were walking through Wal-Mart instead of a Hawaiian jungle -- until we saw our first waterfall.
That's when I mentioned how much Hawaii looks like Western Oregon. I expected a big belly laugh from Kunewa, but instead he nodded in agreement. Both landscapes are volcanic, with deep gorges carved by clear-running streams. Ferns and mosses thrive in drippy grottoes, while the roar of the Pacific Ocean is never far away.
The first waterfall we came to was a small one -- maybe 100 feet. Kunewa called it "the jumping sun."
We continued walking deeper into the forest on a century-old trail. Virtually level, the trail followed a network of irrigation canals and tunnels that were carved into a steep hillside by 600 Japanese laborers.
We passed some 40- to 50-foot falls, then rounded a bend and saw our destination, Kapoloa Falls, which translates to "long white sheaf." Kunewa estimated its height at 800 feet.
After staring in awe for a few moments, we followed the trail behind the falls near the midpoint of its plunge. The spray was refreshing in the humid, 80-degree heat.
On the way back to town, Kunewa swung the van into a roadside turnout on the North Kohala coast. He had spotted five humpback whales cavorting just off shore.offshore.
It was the perfect way to end the adventure, even though I knew the white sand at Hapuna Beach State Park was waiting for me.
Details: Each major Hawaiian island has guide companies that lead visitors off the beaten path. On the Big Island, Hawaii Forest & Trail operates a well-stocked hiking store at Kailua-Kona, in addition to its fleet of vans. The company's Valley Waterfall Adventure cost $120 when I did it. Details: 800-464-1993, www.hawaii-forest.com.
Published Oct. 5, 2003
-- Terry Richard; email@example.com
HONOLULU - The Island of Oahu, known as the Heart of Hawaii, sets the rhythm of the islands and leads by example with new improvements, changes and additions on an ongoing basis. Below is a glimpse of what's new on Oahu:
Hotels & Resorts
The island of Oahu has fabulous hotels and resorts for people of all ages and budgets. Oahu's hotels are constantly updating and adding an array of activities and packages that are sure to make any trip to Oahu unforgettable.
* The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort held its grand reopening on March 7, 2009 as a member of Starwood Hotels & Resorts' elite Luxury Collection. The Royal Hawaiian's multimillion-dollar transformation included a redesign of the reception area and 529 guestrooms to incorporate 21st-century upgrades with classic design elements. The resort features new restaurants, Azure and Surf Lanai, that highlight contemporary Hawaiian cuisine. The Royal Hawaiian's Abhasa Waikiki Spa also received a refresh as a result of the property-wide enhancements.
* The Grand Waikikian by Hilton Grand Vacations Club, which opened to guests and owners on Dec. 20, 2008, celebrated the completion of its new $7 million Paradise Pool in February. The 5,000-square-foot family activity pool boasts the longest slide in Waikiki and overlooks the resort's landmark Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. It is comprised of a two-tiered heated, freshwater swimming pool bordered by lava rock formations, meandering streams and bridges, and lush, tropical landscaping. The pool features four slides including a 77-foot lava tube slide, three waterfalls and two heated spas. The freeform design of the pool's perimeter offers poolside loungers privacy while sunbathing, reading or napping. The Paradise Pool is open to guests of the Grand Waikikian and Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa.
* The Kahala Hotel and Resort is celebrating its 45th anniversary with all new rooms, suites and public spaces. Following a $50 million renovation, the resort's guestrooms and suites now take on the resort's signature "Kahala Chic" design, a contemporary look with an open and airy tropical feel reflecting the elegant lifestyle of residential Kahala. The Presidential Suite has been redone to include an office/conference room with drop-down projection screen and wet bar. Five new Spa Suites have also been added, and includes a men's retreat with a high-end barber's chair and another suite for manicures and pedicures.
* Beginning in mid-2009, ResortQuest Hawaii will rebrand itself under its former name, Aston Hotels & Resorts. The change comes as the Hawaii-based management company celebrates its 61st year in the hospitality industry as one of the state's largest hotel and condominium resort management companies. The name change is the centerpiece of a complete rebranding campaign that encompasses a new image, including a contemporary logo that embodies the Aston reputation.
* The Outrigger Reef on the Beach has opened its brand new Pacific Tower, marking the beginning of the final phase of the hotel's $110 million transformation project. The Pacific Tower includes 403 guestrooms and 33 suites with modern amenities, full-sized tubs and made-in-Hawaii bath amenities in every room. The Outrigger Reef also recently completed its porte cochere and driveway that includes a historic, restored century-old canoe. In Spring 2009, the property will welcome several more shops, a new pool deck, and the Kani Ka Pila Grille, a casual poolside restaurant highlighting Hawaii's rich musical legacy with live performances by legendary island musicians and up-and-coming talent.
* The OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber recently completed an extensive $21 million renovation that included redesigning its 495 guestrooms, lobby and porte cochere. In February, the hotel will welcome Jimmy Buffett's at the Beachcomber, a 22,000-square- foot dining, entertainment and retail venue offering a full menu, cocktails and live entertainment. The new Honolulu Surfing Museum and Bar will offer cocktails and showcase surfing collectibles and memorabilia. Additional upgrades to the hotel include a new business center and fitness room.
* Hilton Waikiki Prince Kuhio completed a $2 million renovation of its 37th floor that includes a new five-bay concierge lounge overlooking Waikiki Beach and three two-bedroom suites with a personal concierge staff and state-of-the-art GuestLink™ system. The upgrade to the 37th floor was part of a $65 million comprehensive renovation of the property.
* Castle Resorts & Hotels took over management of the former W Honolulu - Diamond Head on Jan. 9, 2009. The 51-room boutique hotel is now called The Lotus at Diamond Head. The hotel's signature restaurant, The Diamond Head Bar and Grill, will continue to operate as a fine dining restaurant and one of the island's hottest weekend nightspots.
* Waikiki Parc's new heated rooftop pool, Parc Blue, recently opened to hotel guests. The urban-chic pool and lounge area features plush chaise and covered lounges and firepits that are lit at night. On Tuesdays and Fridays, guests of the Waikiki Parc are welcome to Parc Blue for the Cityscape wine mixer hosted by the hotel's manager. At this free event, guests will enjoy Pacific-fusion canapes and Parc Chic wines. On Sundays and Wednesdays, movies are shown at Parc Blue, and free refreshments are provided.
* In December 2008, Halekulani unveiled "The Orchid Suite at Halekulani," a 2,365-square-foot suite set apart from the hotel's main building and offering panoramic views of Waikīkī and Diamond Head. The suite's amenities include an exclusive Sea of Life Wellness Program designed by SpaHalekulani featuring treatments and therapies inspired by the sea, a full-service Sub-Zero Wolf kitchen with interactive cooking experiences by Halekulani chefs, daily market deliveries, a select La Mer menu, and Art in Motion luxury automobile program. Guests of the Orchid Suite will also be treated to the Premier Collection's complimentary services, including butler service, customized culinary programs, personal concierge and VIP privileges with the hotel's For You Everything, Program offering complimentary access to many of Oahu's best culture and art venues.
* Trump International Hotel & Tower - Waikiki Beach Walk, located on the corner of Kalia Road and Saratoga Road, is a 350-foot tower with 469 luxury hotel-condominium units and four stories of valet parking (230 stalls). Construction started in April 2007 and is expected to be completed in August 2009.
Activities & Entertainment
The island of Oahu is brimming with fun-filled activities that everyone can enjoy. Visitors to Oahu can choose from a wide variety of outdoor or indoor activities or choose to explore the Hawaiian culture.
* The National Park Service began construction on the new visitor center to replace the current USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center shore side facility at Pearl Harbor. The existing visitor center and tours to the USS Arizona Memorial will remain open throughout the two-year construction period that is scheduled to end in December 2010. The new $58 million visitor center at Pearl Harbor will feature expanded facilities, including indoor and outdoor museum galleries and a central information and ticketing venue for all major Pearl Harbor sites.
* In celebration of Hawaii-born U.S. President Barack Obama, Polynesian Adventure Tours recently began operating a Presidential Obama Tour on Oahu. Visitors on the tour will travel to historical locations in President Obama's childhood, as well as other significant and scenic spots around the island, and learn about the Hawaiian culture and special events that have helped shaped the new President's life. The tour includes stops at Obama's birthplace, first home and high school, Nuuanu Pali Lookout, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, Kailua Beach, Waiola Shave Ice, Zippy's restaurant, and more.
* The Bishop Museum will kick off its three-part summer concert series, Moonlight Mele, on June 25 with a performance by award-winning local musician Sean Naauao. The family-friendly concerts are presented under the stars on the Great Lawn at Bishop Museum on the last Thursday of each month from June to August. Acclaimed falsetto singer Darren Benitez and multiple Na Hoku Hanohano award winner Hoku Zuttermeister will perform on July 30, and Grammy nominee Raiatea Helm will grace the Great Lawn on August 27.
* On Aug. 8, 2009, Bishop Museum will reopen its acclaimed Hawaiian Hall, designed by Ralph Applebaum, which showcases the world's largest collection of Native Hawaiian and Pacific area artifacts, many of which have never been publicly displayed before. Hawaiian Hall's three distinct floors will include artifacts from various periods throughout Hawaii's history, stories and legends of old Hawaii, and quotes and art pieces from contemporary Hawaiian cultural practitioners. Hawaiian Hall will also include Polynesian Hall, which traces the Pacific origins of the Hawaiian people, and an interactive resource center providing hands-on children's activities.
* Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa premiered its new Waikiki Starlight Luau on Feb. 23. The luau takes places on the resort's rooftop garden five nights a week and features hula and Polynesian dancing by Tihati Productions. The luau includes a dinner buffet featuring a modern twist on traditional luau fare.
* The Sullivan Estate recently began offering day spa services at its 5.2-acre private property on Oahu's North Shore. The JK7 Spa at the Sullivan Estate offers 7 Sense OlaLoa SPA Packages that includes spa treatments to stimulate and revive your senses, and fresh food items prepared with organic ingredients at its OlaLoa Health Gourmet Cafe. Guests who book at the Sullivan Estate & SPA Retreat will not be booked with other parties, offering total privacy and access to the entire estate and its amenities, including a saltwater swimming pool, 12-person jacuzzi, yoga and meditation room, sauna, and workout facilities.
* "Artists of Hawaii," the state's oldest, most prestigious juried exhibition, returns as a biennial exhibit to the Honolulu Academy of Arts from May 14 to Aug. 16, 2009. The juror of the exhibition's 58th installment is Laura Hoptman, Senior Curator at the New Museum of Contemporary Art, New York.
* From March 21 to June 21, 2009, The Contemporary Museum will celebrate its 21st anniversary by honoring contemporary Hawaiian artists during "20 Going On 21: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Looking to the Future - An Exhibition of Hawaii Artists." The exhibition displays hand-selected pieces by twenty-one different local artists.
* Japanese artist Yoshihiro Suda's works will be on display at The Contemporary Museum in Honolulu from July 11 to Oct. 25, 2009. Suda is internationally known for his installations of delicate carved and painted wooden plant life. Suda's sculptures of indigenous Japanese plants and flowers are meticulously created with surprising realism and in true-to-life scale that, at times, borders on the miniscule. This will be Suda's first solo exhibition in the United States.
* The Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) will feature "Live from the Lawn," a monthly event occurring every first Friday of the month. On May 1, the locally renowned Cruz family will perform live Hawaiian music with special guests. In June, "Live from the Lawn" will celebrate contemporary dance with performances by Hawaii Ballet, Tau Dance, Iona, Convergence Dance Theatre, Upside Down Dance, and independent choreographers and dancers. The July 3 program features capoeira, live Latin jazz, Flamenco dancing, and Brazilian Batacuda percussion and dancing, and in August, the gymnastic artists of Samadhi will perform aerial dancing with Makana accompanying on guitar.
* Waimea Valley reopened to the public on Jan. 19 following an extensive cleanup of the valley. Activities at the valley, including "The Magnificent Alae Ula Walk," "The Native Plant Walk," "Moolelo o Waimea - History of Waimea Walk," Hawaiian games, and "Visit with Kupuna" will also be open to the public. On the first and third Sunday of each month, Waimea Valley Botanical Collections Specialist David Orr will provide walking tours through the valley, highlighting different plants and fruits along the way.
Restaurants & Cuisine
Oahu is known for its diverse culture, which is exhibited by the island assortment of foods. With wonderful choices and an array of cuisine options, there's sure to be a restaurant for everyone.
· Tropics Bar & Grill at the Hilton Hawaiian Village is undergoing an expansive renovation and will open in Spring 2009 with a contemporary new island design, featuring glass tiles, warm wood tones and floral fabrics. The main architectural highlight is the new outdoor fire pits around the restaurant's perimeter that front the beach. Tropics Bar & Grill will be significantly expanded with more indoor and outdoor seating, a larger kitchen and new menu.
· The Outrigger Reef on the Beach introduced its new restaurant, Kani Ka Pila Grille, in March 2009. The poolside bar and grille offers casual and tasty lunch and dinner fare daily, but its specialty is live nightly entertainment by renowned Hawaii musicians as well as the island's hottest up-and-coming artists. Kani Ka Pila means "to make music," and the new restaurant is the latest example of Outrigger Hotels & Resorts' long-time commitment to supporting and sharing Hawaii's rich musical heritage.
· Coinciding with The Royal Hawaiian's grand reopening were the openings of the resort's two new restaurants, Surf Lanai and Azure. Surf Lanai offers casual, oceanfront dining alongside The Royal Hawaiian's pool, offering al fresco breakfast and lunch service. The menu features classic mainland dishes with tropical accents. Azure, led by renowned local chef Jon Matsubara, offers sophisticated dinner service along Waikiki Beach. Azure specializes in fresh island seafood and fish, handpicked daily from the Honolulu Fish Auction. In addition to Surf Lanai and Azure, The Royal Hawaiian welcomes back its famous Mai Tai Bar.
· In February, Chef Wolfgang Zweiner opened his first Hawai'i restaurant, Wolfgang's Steakhouse, at The Royal Hawaiian Center. The restaurant, which is styled after Wolfgang's classic New York steakhouses, specializes in hand-selected USDA Prime Grade Black Angus beef steaks but also offers veal, lamb and seafood to please every palette.
· The Counter, a new restaurant specializing in create-your-own gourmet burgers, opened in February at Kahala Mall. The Counter offers more than 300,000 possible burger combinations in three different sizes and specialty meats, including Angus beef, grilled chicken, turkey, veggie, and seafood burgers, as well as an array of cheeses, toppings and sauces. The Counter is owned by Ed Robles, Pablo Buckingham, renowned local chef, D.K. Kodama, and Lost actor Daniel Dae Kim.
· Hawaii's first Jimmy Buffett restaurant, Jimmy Buffett's at the Beachcomber, opened at the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber in February 2009. Unique technology allows for beautiful sunsets, crashing waves and majestic mountains to blend seamlessly with the "Hot Spot Bar," the Ocean Waves Dining Booths, and the music of Jimmy Buffett and the Islands. The restaurant offers regional cuisine and signature cocktails, and features nightly live entertainment by local up-and-coming musicians.
Oahu is a shopping mecca with something for everyone. Home to hundreds of fashionable designer stores as well as markets that carry locally made crafts, visitors are sure to love the shopping experience no matter where they go.
* Ala Moana Center will welcome seven new merchants in Summer and Fall 2009. Two new retailers, Aeropostale, a specialty retailer for young men and women, and Miu Miu, Prada's sister brand, will open their first Hawai'i locations in May 2009. Goma Tei Ramen, offering authentic Japanese ramen, noodles and specialty dishes, and Wetzel's Pretzels, which specializes in soft pretzels, will also open in May. Summer store openings will include Kate Spade and Michael Kors in June. This will be Michael Kors' first stand-alone store in Hawai'i. Fall will commence with the highly anticipated opening of Hawaii's first Victoria's Secret.
* Ward Centers added six new merchants to its family of over 135 shops and eateries. In January, In4m Boardshop, a skateboard specialty store by the owners of In4mation, opened its doors at Ward Warehouse. February welcomed the opening of Brian's Hawaiian Kitchen and Expressions Portrait Studio at Ward Warehouse, and marked the opening of popular surf brand Hurley's first retail store on Oahu at the Ward Entertainment Center. Later this spring and throughout the summer, Ward Centers will be busy with the opening of Blazin' Steaks at Ward Warehouse, Taco Del Mar at Ward Centre, and the completion of Sports Authority's newly expanded Ward Gateway Center store. Several popular Ward Centers stores will also be reopening in new locations in the next few months, including Marukai 99 Store and Pictures Plus.
* As part of its $115 million revitalization, Royal Hawaiian Center recently introduced 15 new merchants to its 110 shop and restaurant offerings. Wolfgang's Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener, a restaurant from New York, opened its first location in Hawaii at the Center in February. 7 For All Mankind, a luxury denim retailer, also opened its first Hawaii location at Royal Hawaiian Center. The Paina Lanai food court now has nine options including the Grove Bar, Monkey's, Paradise Cafe, Ezogiku, Kenny's Hawaiian Express, Sbarro, Yummy Korean BBQ, Maui Tacos, and the first Tacone Flavor Grill to open in Hawaii. In addition, Little Hawaiian Craft Shop, which sells made-in-Hawaii products, has relocated to a new location on the third floor, and Ai Amour Luxury Lingerie opened its doors with high-fashion designer lingerie separates. Select specialty carts like Lotus Natural Beauty feature new skincare products, while Komang Jewelry and SoHo offer accessories. The Center also continues to offer free entertainment and cultural classes, including lessons in hula, lei making, Hawaiian quilting, and ukulele.
* In November 2008, local residents Liz Lerner and Kai Cost opened Guava Shop, a women's boutique in Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore. Guava Shop is located in the Haleiwa Town Center and carries popular mainland brands, including Indah, Splendid, C&C California, Frankie B, and several others. The boutique is also an exclusive carrier of Red Flower and Salt Swimwear and offers handcrafted Kaila jewelry by Kai Cost and items from local green companies, including Plastic Free Haleiwa and Defend Oahu Coalition.
Festivals and Events
Oahu is home to the largest number of festivals and events in Hawaii. Each year, visitors have the opportunity to connect with the local community and experience renowned events that showcase the island's rich arts and culture scene, the world's top amateur and professional sporting competitions and championships, and the many ethnic celebrations that are exclusive to Hawaii.
· The Chinatown Boardroom presents its Surf Discussion Series on the third Sunday of each month from March to Oct. 2009. Surf Discussion Series provides a platform for famous local surfers to speak about their experiences and tell their stories.
· From April 28-May 30, Bishop Museum and PA'I Foundation present Maoli Arts Month (MAMo). Maoli Arts Month is a month-long, free group exhibition featuring the top Native Hawaiian contemporary artists of today. Events during Maoli Arts Month include MAMo First Friday in downtown Honolulu on May 1, MAMo Wearable Art Showcase on May 16 and Native Hawaiian Arts Market and Keiki Art Day at Bishop Museum on May 23 and 24.
· Polynesian Cultural Center will host the 17th Annual World Fireknife Championships from May 13-16. For four days, participants from around the world will showcase the art of Samoan fireknife dancing and compete for the title of world's best. On May 16, hundreds of Hawaii's high school students will showcase their expertise at traditional Samoan skills, music and dance.
· From May 21-24, the Honolulu Gay & Lesbian Cultural Foundation will host the 20th Annual Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival at the Honolulu Academy of Arts' Doris Duke Theatre. The festival will showcase more than 25 features, documentaries and short subject films and will culminate with a Gayla Celebration at the Honolulu Academy of Arts on May 24.
· The Honolulu Symphony will conclude its Toyota Pops season on May 23 with a concert by smooth jazz legend Dave Koz at the Waikiki Shell. Koz will perform classic songs, including "Moon River," "Over the Rainbow" and "As Time Goes By" with the Pops orchestra and Maestro Matt Catingub.
· On Memorial Day, May 25, thousands of Hawaii residents and island visitors of various cultural and religious backgrounds will gather at Ala Moana Beach Park for the 10th anniversary of the Lantern Floating Hawai'i Ceremony. The ceremony serves to honor those who have sacrificed their lives in war, pay respect to ancestors and loved ones who have passed away, and pray for a harmonious and peaceful future. More than 2,000 candle-lit lanterns will be set afloat on the ocean, a traditional Buddhist rite originating in Japan. The ceremony also features live entertainment by local and international musicians and inspiring speeches.
· Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse will bring his energetic cooking style and "New New Orleans" cuisine to The Kahala Hotel and Resort at The Kahala Food & Wine Classic on June 12 and 13. This two-day intimate dining event will feature gala dinners, cooking classes, wine tastings, and cigar seminars.
· During the summer months, the Waikiki Aquarium will host its "Ke Kani O Ke Kai" five-concert series on June 18, July 2, July 16, July 30, and Aug. 13. Each oceanside concert will feature the islands' top performers, including the Brothers Cazimero who will open the series on June 18. In addition to live entertainment, the concerts will feature food by various restaurant partners. Proceeds raised by the event will go toward future Waikiki Aquarium exhibits.
· On July 18, Moanalua Gardens Foundation (MGF) will present "Ke Alana o Moanalua...the awakening of Moanalua," the 32nd Annual Prince Lot Hula Festival at Moanalua Gardens. The Prince Lot Hula Festival is the largest non-competitive hula event in Hawaii. It honors Prince Lot Kapuaiwa who reprised the once banned hula in the district of Moanalua and features various halau from Oahu dancing both hula kahiko (ancient hula) and hula auana (modern hula) on one of the few remaining pa hula (hula mounds) in Hawaii.
· For the 18th consecutive year, Ala Moana Center will present Hawaii's largest fireworks spectacular, taking place at Ala Moana Beach Park on Independence Day. The festivities will begin with a bang on July 4, and continue throughout the weekend with entertainment by Hawaii's top musicians, shopping and savings for the entire family.
· Ala Moana Center is gearing up to celebrate its landmark 50th anniversary on Aug. 13, 2009. Spanning five decades from the first days of statehood to modern day Hawaii, this milestone marks how Ala Moana Center has served both residents and visitors alike as the Hawaiian Islands' most highly revered gathering place to shop, dine and be entertained.


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The result: They come into Canada and Cincinnati relatively cold. And so you sometimes see consistent Final Four habitues like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal pushed around by guys who have to drop down to the Challenger circuit if they want a realistic shot at earning a trophy.
So it went for two-time Rogers Cup champion Andy Murray today. Future public-courts manager Kevin Anderson took a hammer to Murray, 6-3, 6-1. The towering South African will be gone himself in a day or two, but on this day he got the spotlight.
You might think, So what? The top players only need a few good battles under their belts before heading into the U.S. Open at the end of the month. That's probably true for the three guys ahead of Murray in the rankings, but the Scotsman hasn't won a major. He needs the confidence that only positive momentum provides. There are still carpers out there who insist Murray needs to hit harder, improve his serve and master the do-se-do if he wants to beat the best when it matters.
I don't agree. Andy's game is championship-quality as is, thank you very much. What he needs is to believe in himself. Until he does -- and gets a little luck with the draw, too -- he won't outhit Roger, Rafa or Novak Djokovic in the clutch. So, yeah, playing well in Montreal and Cincy matters for him.
The good news coming out of Canada today was the performance of Juan Martin del Potro, who bested Jarrko Nieminen 6-4, 6-0 in his first match. The big Argentine is not -- I repeat, NOT -- a one-hit wonder. If he can stay healthy (and I believe he can), he'll finish his career with more major titles than Djokovic.
How can I say such a thing considering the incredible tear Djokovic is on?
Easy. As Rafa said after losing the Wimbledon final, Novak can play above his level only for so long. Think Guillermo Vilas in 1977 or Mats Wilander in 1988. They had single seasons that stand up there among the all-time great seasons posted by guys like Laver and Budge and Borg. But Guillermo and Mats are not all-time greats.
I'm not suggesting that when gravity reaches up and grabs Djokovic by the seat of his pants he'll never win another major. What I'm saying is that del Potro doesn't need to be in orbit to be unbeatable. The del Potro of the 2009 U.S. Open who spanked Nadal and came from behind to shock Federer was run-of-the-mill Juan. He wasn't doing anything out of the ordinary. He wasn't feeling the rocket-booster kick of a new diet or a first-ever Davis Cup title or a sudden understanding of service mechanics. He was just going out and playing tennis.
There's not much that can go wrong with that swinging-gate forehand he has. No human ever will be able to get the ball up out of his strike zone on either wing. And the playing surface no longer exists that will keep the ball low enough to make his back ache.
He just has to want to win multiple majors, and the gentle giant seems to want it plenty. Let me be the first to get the bandwagon going early: Juan Martin del Potro for 2011 U.S. Open champion!

subset: commoncrawl


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A program called Star Light, Star Bright, Star Gazing will be offered from 8 to 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29 at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute.
Pierce Cedar Creek Institute is located south of Hastings at 701 W. Cloverdale Rd, 2.5 miles west of M-37 and 4.5 miles east of M-43.
Participants will explore basic astronomy and the cultural history surrounding star constellations.
The event was scheduled to take advantage of the waning moon, and the location is far enough from city lights to provide a clear viewing experience.
"The late-rising moon and the lack of light pollution will make for great viewing of the stars," said Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Program Manager Matt Dykstra.
Participants are encouraged to bring a pair of binoculars and a blanket.
"We will also have a campfire and s'mores to keep families energized throughout the evening," Dykstra said.
The Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomy Association (GRAAA) will be bringing out several telescopes, improving the view of both stars and planets.
The GRAAA includes individuals with wide levels of expertise and knowledge of astronomy, from beginner to professional. The GRAAA has been active in the West Michigan community for over 50 years, sponsoring observational and educational sessions.
Star Light, Star Bright, Star Gazing is free to Pierce Cedar Creek members and $6 for non-members. The program is subject to weather considerations and may be rescheduled. Those registered for the event will be notified of any change.
Pre-registration is required. Call (269) 721-4190 or visit cedarcreekinstitute.org under the calendar of events.


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Just saw a promo on Discovery Channel re the crashing of a B727 by remote control chase plane into Laguna Salada dry lakebed to gather data to make flying even safer.
The program will air in the United Kingdom on the 18th of Oct 2012, still not certain of start time, but will post when I'm across it, not sure about USA, I imagine you will air it sooner.
The project was years in the making, with the Broken Wing Team considering a Tristar L1011 for the job originally before settling on a B727 212 reg N293AS and nick named Big Flo. She was crashed landed in April 2012 after the two pilots parachuted out the back ala D.B. Cooper style, having removed the rear stairs to enable the crew to make a clean unobstructed exit.
The full story can be found in October 2012 Airways mag as part of a two part report.


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From Staff Reports
SALEM -- The Salem County Historical Society has announced that Professor Bernard K. Freamon of Seton Hall Law School will be the presenter for the 5th John S. Rock Memorial Lecture.
The presentation, "Desegregation, Resegregation, and the New Jersey Constitution," will be held on Sunday, Oct. 19 at Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church, 15 Yorke St., at 3 p.m.
The public is invited to enjoy this free educational program.
Freamon is a professor of law at Seton Hall Law School where he teaches evidence, civil rights, prisoners' rights, Islamic jurisprudence, slavery and the law and professional ethics. He received his bachelor of arts from Wesleyan University and his J.D. from Rutgers University, Newark. He also possesses LL.M. and J.S.D. degrees from Columbia University School of Law.
As part of the society's educational programming, this lecture commemorates the life of John Stewart Rock (1826-1866), teacher, healer and counselor. Rock, born in Salem County, was a black abolitionist of national prominence who was well known in his time but less recognized in ours.
He was the first African American to be admitted to the Bar of the United States Supreme Court in 1865.
The society continues to honor the life of this native son through this lecture series and through a special scholarship at the Salem Community College.
Contributions from the community at large fund both commemorations through a restricted fund at the society. This year, Jennifer Resto received the John S. Rock Memorial Scholarship. Resto is a 2008 graduate of Pennsville Memorial High School majoring in biotechnology at Salem Community College.


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Filed under: Sedan, Hatchback, Mazda, Misc. Auto Shows, Diesel
Mazda is reportedly set to introduce a Mazda2 with a four-door sedan body. Unlike the upcoming CX-3, which is debuting at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show and is almost certain to be sold in North America, this other version's chance here are a bit more mysterious.
According to The Bangkok Post, the Mazda2 sedan will make its word debut at the Thailand International Motor Expo on November 28, and the traditional five-door hatch will be there as well. Both body styles will be built in Thailand with diesel engines and will be the first vehicles to adhere to the country's eco-car rules for oil-burners with a SkyActiv 1.5-liter diesel that will make 105 horsepower.
At this time, there's no indication whether the new sedan might also be sold in the US, but we're not holding our breath – remember, the previous Mazda2 sedan never made it Stateside, either.
Mazda2 sedan debuting in Thailand this month? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Nov 2014 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.


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Residence: Lehigh Valley
Members: DJ Brown (vocals, guitar); Travis Hobbie (guitar); Luming Hao (guitar, keyboards); Alex Luquet (bass); John Kimock (drums)
Website: ourgriffins.com, facebook.com/
Influences: Brown says he musically has been inspired by newer indie rock bands. "Emotionally,
spiritually something that's been in me for years," Brown says.
Sounds like: Brown
describes Our Griffins as "Definitely a rock band," focusing on a three-guitar sonic approach.
Set list: Brown says the band will be performing all-original music, focusing a large portion of their sets on cuts off of their upcoming album, "Come and Wake Me Up."
Know their roots: Brown says he initially collaborated with friend and fellow musician-producer, Todd Schied, nearly five years ago after meeting him through former Nazareth-based rock band Wailing Waters.
Brown says for the past two years, he jammed with Hao and former Wailing Waters guitarist Travis Hobbie. The trio recently recruited Luquet and Kimock, who also performs in the duo Exter vs. Kimock, to round out the touring configuration of Our Griffins.
"John's awesome," Brown says. "I'm so happy he's playing with us."
"Come and Wake Me Up," which was produced by Schied, features drum tracks recorded by Dr. Dog drummer Eric Slick.
Catch them if you
can: Our Griffins perform tonight at Porters'
Pub in Easton.
Meet the band spotlights local bands. Whether signed, unsigned or just starting out, area bands can e-mail information, contact number and high-resolution jpeg photo to Dustin Schoof at email@example.com or mail to The Express-Times, 30 N. Fourth St., Easton, PA, 18044-0391. Bands are encouraged to send an MP3 of their music to be included on The Express-Times' website at lehighvalleylive.com/exposed. CDs or DVDs welcomed. Information: 610-258-7171, ext. 3564.


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WESTFIELD – Perhaps the defining moment of Bill Moore's 12-year tenure as football coach at Westfield High School came on a chilly weekend morning, away from Friday night's bright lights.
It was Saturday morning, about 10 hours removed from what could be considered his crowning victory. The Bombers, fresh off their first win over Longmeadow during Moore's tenure – a wild 34-32 affair – assembled in the teachers' parking lot before heading into school for a weightlifting session.
Win or lose, they were there. Win or lose, they were still working – trying to get faster, stronger, better, tougher.
The same can be said of Moore, whose Bombers are a perfect 5-0 in his final season. Win or lose, he has kept Westfield football relevant, competitive and growing. Win or lose, Moore has made a career out of molding young men into men of character. And win or lose, that's what he's proudest of, more than any on-field success.
"People will look at wins and losses and say what they're going to say," he said. "But the bottom line for me is that, in this program, you can be as good a football player as you want to be."
Of course, there's much more to it than that.
Like Moore, what makes the Westfield program successful is much deeper than what meets the eye.
Sure, Westfield's triple-option is tough to stop, especially when its oversized line – known for a portion of Moore's stint as "The Pain Train" – is devouring defenses. And yes, the X's and O's drawn from Moore's 20 years of coaching experience, including positions at Princeton University, Springfield College and Western New England, do play a part.
But it's the intangibles Moore brings – and teaches – that have made him one of the region's mainstays.
Moore preaches character and mental toughness, to his program and beyond. He has informed countless players throughout Western Massachusetts, thanks to his presence at offseason leagues and camps, including the successful NFL High School Player Development camps.
Those tenets are so important to Moore that his main focus after his final season is the completion and promotion of his book, "On Character and Mental Toughness."
"As a coach, you always try to determine if a kid 'gets it,' but what's 'It?'" Moore said. "I tried to define it, and it comes down to character and mental toughness."
The idea for the book came about organically. Moore would often send messages to his sons. later adding them to his coaching website and since finding a healthy following on Twitter. Whatever the platform, the message remains the same.
"You can have great kids who do the right things," Moore said. "But they need mental toughness to do it under pressure. It's a combination of two things: Talent is great, but our goal has always been to teach them character."
The approach has worked well. His Bombers have reached two Western-Central Mass. Division I Super Bowls, and may very well contend in this year's statewide playoffs. In 2007 and 2008, Westfield was a combined 18-6.
What's more representative of the Bill Moore Era, however, is the fact his teams were never a roll-over opponent, even in down years. Lower turnout in 2011 and 2012 led to a downturn for the Bombers, but they've always been a tough out.
"He gives the kids absolutely everything that he's got," said longtime Holyoke coach Bob Lastowski, whose Purple Knights face Westfield Friday.
Moore has also been a driving force inside the Western Mass. football community. Along with East Longmeadow's Scott Raymond, he was instrumental in the development and continued maintenance of the Western Mass. Football Coaches Association.
For the last two years, he has run a college football recruiting fair, providing the region's players a chance to meet and be heard by college representatives throughout the region and beyond.
"It's a great group of guys," Moore said, pointing out former Longmeadow coach Alex Rotsko, former South Hadley coach Ray Ferro and Lastowski as key mentors along the way. "My peers now are great. Everyone has worked well together."
Though this is the last season for Moore at Westfield, it might last longer than any other.
"It's definitely a great group of kids," he said. "They've taken the lessons to heart. Two years ago, when I told the (athletic director) and principal that this would be my last year, I wanted to stick around for these guys. This group was our good-character kids and they're giving it all."
A perfect tribute to a coach who's also given it all – and then some – for 12 long years.


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Friday, July 25, 2008
Gillian Anderson
Posted by Hot Chicks With No Eyebrows at 7:19 AM
Labels: Gilian Anderson, movie star, tv star
2 comments:
the aliens must've abducted her eyebrows!
- May 22, 2008 at 7:28 AM
There is something so odd about eyebrows. I cannot think of any reason for their existence. Pubes are a mystery, too. I have thought about such things extensively.
- August 24, 2008 at 3:36 PM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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|Australia, Northern Territory
|Central coordinates
|136o 42.12' East 12o 50.60' South
|IBA criteria
|190 ha
|0 - 10m
|Year of IBA assessment
Summary The Three Hummocks Islands are a group of small granite islands with very large numbers of Bridled Terns nesting on the four largest islands. Smaller numbers of Roseate Terns have also been recorded nesting on adjacent islands.
Site description The Three Hummocks Island group is south of Wanyanmera Point in north-east Arnhem Land. They are a group of partially vegetated granite island with large numbers of Bridled Terns nesting on the four largest islands. The IBA also includes the nearby rocky and sandy Dudley Island to the south and a number of unnamed rocky islets to the north. These are island refs S038, S039, S041, S104 and S105 in Chatto (2001).
Key Biodiversity Chatto (2001) made nine counts on the Three Hummocks Island group. The estimated numbers of Bridled Terns nesting in the four years between 1993-1999 when counts were made were 10,000, 5000, 7500 and 20,000-50,000. On the small islands to the north, up to 500 Roseate Terns and 450 Black-naped Terns were recorded as irregularly nesting. On Dudley Island to the south, up to 300 Black-naped, 200 Bridled and 200 Roseate Terns have been recorded nesting.
|Population estimate
|Quality of estimate
|IBA Criteria
|IUCN Category
|Bridled Tern Onychoprion anaethetus
|20,000-50,000 individuals
|Least Concern
|not assessed
|not assessed
|Poor - based on little, or potentially unreliable/unrepresentative, data
|No known threats
|no known threats
|happening now
|small area/few individuals (<10%)
|no or imperceptible deterioration
|Protected area
|Area (ha)
|Relationship with IBA
|Overlap with IBA (ha)
|Indigenous Protected Area
|protected area overlaps with site
|IUCN habitat
|Habitat detail
|Extent (% of site)
|Sea cliffs, rocky shores & rocky islets
Land ownership Arnhem Land ALT
|Extent (% of site)
|Notes: Traditional use
Protection status There is an overlap with the Laynhapuy Indigenous Protected Area.
Access/Land-Owner requests Traditionally-owned land.
References Chatto, R. (2001) The distribution and status of colonial breeding seabirds in the NT. Technical Report 70. Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory, Palmerston. Harrison, L., McGuire, L., Ward, S. Fisher, A., Pavey, C., Fegan, M. and Lynch, B. (2009) An inventory of sites of international and national significance for biodiversity values in the Northern Territory. Department of Natural Resources, Environment, the Arts & Sport, Darwin, NT. Ward, S. and Harrison, L. (2009) Recognising sites of conservation significance for biodiversity values in the Northern Territory. Department of Natural Resources, Environment, the Arts & Sport, Darwin, NT.
Contribute Please click here to help BirdLife conserve the world's birds - your data for this IBA and others are vital for helping protect the environment.
Recommended citation BirdLife International (2016) Important Bird and Biodiversity Area factsheet: Three Hummocks Island. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 28/10/2016
To provide new information to update this factsheet or to correct any errors, please email BirdLife


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Julia Peterson of Princeton Junction has more than 20 years of experience in the apparel industry, most recently as a quality control manager.
And while she is seeking a job in the apparel/textiles industry, she is also open to a career that includes her passion for home decor.
View this applicant's full resume.
What I do outside work: I design and construct wall hangings and window coverings, do some home remodeling (tiling baths, built-in bookcases) and cultivate vegetable and flowering plants.
My favorite movie: "Batman Begins"
If I didn't have to work...: I would open a cross-generational "community meeting place" where coffee and smoothies were served, newspapers and books were well worn, clothing and rugs were recycled and events were scheduled (i.e.: book groups, reading to kids, crafting groups, open mikes, etc.)
Why you should hire me, in 25 words or less: I am focussed, thorough and take ownership of each project. I deliver on challenges even if it means pulling a rabbit out of a hat.
2007-09: Sean John Clothing. Senior manager of quality control who enforced the Brands make and performance standards, established protocol and managed the lab testing program per AATCC, ASTM & FTC.
2005-07: I. Spiewak & Sons Outerwear. Fabric and production sourcing manager who planned, sourced and executed all elements of outerwear production delivering on Designs' challenges for this New York company.
My depth of apparel production knowledge, love of textiles, thoroughness and ability to create win-win solutions.
Acquiring thorough knowledge of the 2008 CSPIA as it applied to our products and getting our related regulatory certificate program running to meet a deadline.
Northeastern University
Boston, Mass.
B.S. Fine Arts
Fashion Institute of Technology
New York, N.Y.
A.A.S. Fashion Design
Lisa Chenofsky Singer, executive and career coach/human resources consulting, Chenofsky Singer and Associates LLC (ChenofskySinger.com)
Julia's primary industry, the U.S. apparel manufacturers, has been restructuring and consolidating to stem their losses.
Many have developed their own brands, created new product lines and completed acquisitions to increase revenues. The use of overseas factories has increased due to cost of labor. The quality control role is diminishing in the U.S. as it is typically done on site at the factory.
Although Julia's career has been primarily in one field, her diversified experience includes quality control, fabric and production sourcing, buying and product development. This diversified experience in managing a product from inception to completion will help her secure a position in a product development role in any industry.
Julia needs to focus on what she wants emphasize to the hiring manager. For example, she should bold either her companies or her title progression, but not both, depending upon which she wants to emphasize. The dates should not be bold either.
Since she has been in her industry for some time, Julia may want to consider adding a "Professional Development and Affiliation" section to show her commitment within her industry or within her functional skills.
Leveraging herself in a new industry should not be an enormous effort if Julia understands her skills and knows how to market them into another industry. After all, in these changing times it is important that we all remember to be a person who is open to learning new techniques, new systems and new processes.
• Julia can improve her summary section to better capture the hiring manager's attention. The use of a shorter pitch with highlights of key achievements emphasizing quantitative results will enable her to market herself more effectively.
• Remember a resume is a "living document" in a constant state of revision. Julia's resume must identify what value she can bring to the table. It should be strategic and forward selling. In addition, while there are many ways to create a resume it is important that it be stylistic to the targeted audience.
• Always check for spelling errors beyond spell check. Asking a friend to read it is helpful as he/she may pick up the correctly spelled word that is incorrectly used (for example, there and their)
• When a resume is two pages, ensure page two has your name, phone number and e-mail address as pages do get separated.
• Have another friend, who is not in your line of work or industry, proofread your resume so that he/she can question the appropriate use of any jargon you may have used. This is especially important if you are venturing into a new industry -- your experience may not be understandable to that recruiter/hiring manager.
How it works: You need a job. We want to help. Hire Me is an opportunity to make your pitch. E-mail your resume (as a Word attachment) to firstname.lastname@example.com. If selected, we will forward your resume to an expert for advice and feature it here.
Employers: If you'd like to contact a candidate featured in this
column, e-mail email@example.com.


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Filing for Bankruptcy in North Dakota
If you want to file for bankruptcy in North Dakota, there is information online that can help you.
The general filing process in North Dakota is similar to other states because the most of the bankruptcy process is governed by federal law. However, you will need to include some of the North Dakota-specific information on your bankruptcy forms.
You'll also need to know about the North Dakota exemptions because federal exemptions are not available to you in North Dakota.
Here is some information to get you started.
Getting the Required Credit Counseling and Debtor Education in North Dakota
Before you can file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must have proof that you received credit counseling from an agency approved by the U.S. Trustee in North Dakota within the six month period before you file for bankruptcy. You'll also have to take a debtor education course after you file, before you will be granted a discharge. (To learn more about this requirement, including the rare exceptions, see Credit Counseling & Debtor Education Requirements in Bankruptcy.)
- You can find the list of approved North Dakota credit counseling agencies here.
- You can find the list of approved North Dakota debtor education agencies here.
North Dakota Bankruptcy Exemptions
North Dakota has a set of bankruptcy exemptions which help determine what property you get to keep in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and play a role in how much you repay creditors in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. (To learn more, see our Bankruptcy Exemptions area.)
Unlike some other states that allow debtors to use the federal bankruptcy exemptions, in North Dakota, you can only use North Dakota exemptions.
To learn about North Dakota's exemptions for your home and car, see The Homestead Exemption in North Dakota and The Motor Vehicle Exemption in North Dakota. To find other North Dakota exemptions, visit our Bankruptcy Exemptions area.
Completing the Bankruptcy Forms in North Dakota
Whether you file for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, you need to fill out a bankruptcy petition, several schedules containing detailed information on what you own and who you owe money to, and several other forms containing detailed information on your finances. You may also need to file a lengthy form known as the "means test" to see if you qualify for a Chapter 7 and a similar form for a Chapter 13.
(For a list of the forms you must complete, see The Bankruptcy Forms: Getting Started.)
Getting and Completing the Official Bankruptcy Forms
For more information about each of the official forms, including how to find them and fill them out, see Completing the Bankruptcy Forms.
Finding Means Test Information for North Dakota
When you file for bankruptcy in North Dakota, you must compare your income to the median income for a household of your size in North Dakota. If you income is less than the median, you will be eligible to file for Chapter 7 and, if you choose to file for Chapter 13 instead, you can use a three-year repayment plan (rather than five years).
If your income is above North Dakota's median income for a household of your size, you still might qualify for Chapter 7, but you will have to provide detailed information on your regular expenses and payments on secured debts by completing something called the means test to find out. Most Chapter 13 filers will also have to provide this information in a similar Chapter 13 form.
For information about each of these forms, including how to complete them, see:
- Form 22A–Statement of Current Monthly Income and Means Test Calculation (for Chapter 7), and
- Form 22C –Statement of Current Monthly Income and Calculation of Commitment Period and Disposable Income (for Chapter 13).
Here's how to find North Dakota-specific figures for these forms:
North Dakota Median Income. For a one-person household in North Dakota, the median income is $42,953. For a family of four, the North Dakota median income is $79,336. You can find median income figures for other household sizes in North Dakota here.
Example. Melissa is married and resides with her husband and two children. Their total household income is $72,000. She is eligible to file for Chapter 7 without completing the detailed means test calculations because her household income is less than $79,336.
Standard deductions. Forms 22A and 22C have a comprehensive list of expense categories, such as housing, transportation, food and childcare. For some of those categories (like childcare), you provide the actual amount you spend. For other categories, you plug in a predetermined amount -- sometimes that figure is standard for the entire country, other times it varies by county or region.
You can find all of the North Dakota area state, county and region-specific figures that you will need to complete Forms 22A and Forms 22C on the U.S. Trustee's website at www.justice.gov/ust. Click on "Bankruptcy Reform" and then "Means Testing Information."
Example. In North Dakota, the standard amount that you list on your means test for housing varies by county and the number in your household. If you live in Burleigh County, your mortgage or rent deduction is $861 for a one-person household and $1,188 for a four-person household. If you live in Cass County, your mortgage or rent deduction is $921 for a one-person household and $1,272 for a four-person household. You can find housing expense standards for each North Dakota county here.
Getting Local Bankruptcy Forms
Some judicial districts and bankruptcy courts require bankruptcy filers to complete additional "local forms." To find out if your court requires additional forms, contact the bankruptcy clerk's office. You might even find these forms posted online at your bankruptcy court's website. (Below you will find a link to the bankruptcy court in North Dakota.)
Filing in the North Dakota Bankruptcy Court
There are is only one federal judicial district in North Dakota, so you don't have to worry about filing in the correct judicial district as long as:
- you have lived in North Dakota for the greater part of the 180 days before you file, or
- you have been domiciled (which is the place where you maintain your home with evidence of the intent to stay) in North Dakota, if you have been living elsewhere temporarily (such as on a military deployment or out of the area for temporary work assignment).
If you don't meet these requirements, you might need to file in the state that you previously resided in.
You can use the Court Locator tool on the U.S. Courts website to find bankruptcy court locations and websites. The website for the North Dakota Bankruptcy Court is www.ndb.uscourts.gov.
The main office is in Fargo but there is also a location in Bismark.
Talk to a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Need professional help? Start here.
How It Works
- Briefly tell us about your case
- Provide your contact information
- Choose attorneys to contact you


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|Print Page
Wild Horse and Burro ambassadors greet Nevada County fairgoers
Triple-digit heat didn't stop people from coming by to meet BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program ambassador animals at the Nevada County Fair in Grass Valley. Fairgoers could visit the booth and learn about the wild horses and burros, from August 8 to 13. (text continues below)
Volunteers Sue Watkins, Marcy Schaffer-Egot, Michele and Steve DeCamp, and Mikaela and Sierra Sawaya helped staff the booth and brought ambassador animals to the event. Mikaela and Sierra are going to take their yearlings to Fort Worth, Texas in September for the Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover. They picked up their yearlings in May for this makeover. We were very happy to have them at the Fair to show how trainable the mustangs are. Good luck to the Sawaya sisters at the competition!
Sue Watkins -- with Shasta's assistance -- shows the crowd a safe way to teach a horse to pick up its back feet.
- Amy Dumas, BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program Manager (August 13, 2012)
BLM-California News.bytes, issue 544 -- To subscribe to News.bytes, send an e-mail to: mailto:email@example.com OR visit our News.bytes subscription page.
|Last updated: 09-19-2012
|USA.GOV | No Fear Act | DOI | Disclaimer | About BLM | Notices | Social Media Policy
|Privacy Policy | FOIA | Kids Policy | Contact Us | Accessibility | Site Map | Home


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AUBURN, Alabama -- Clint Moseley was throwing short passes in warm-ups and went through all the early drills with the quarterbacks at the beginning of Auburn's practice Wednesday, but we still don't know how his bum shoulder is feeling.
Moseley has been allowed to throw passes in the early stages of practices, but has been instructed not to throw serious passes. He was held out of last Saturday's scrimmage because of a sore rotator cuff.
**Offensive lineman Greg Robinson returned to practice. He had been away visiting his ill father, according to Robinson's tweets.
**A full officiating crew was hand, presumably to monitor serious plays and perhaps a half-scrimmage.
**We'll be back with videos in a bit, and a full post-scrimmage report. At this moment, the Tigers are still practicing.


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Cosmetic Chaos: Battling dry winter skin
With about a million more weeks of winter ahead of us, we all are scowling at the fact that this polar vortex is not only taking a toll on our streets and cars, but our skin, hair and nails as well.
The only way to salvage your looks, pull yourself together and brave the cold is to be prepared. With winter comes winter skin – dry, scaly, unmoist skin; brittle, static-prone hair; and chipping nails.
Here are a few products I use to combat the coldness and make sure I'm not so miserable till April hits.
Avoplex Cuticle Oil To Go
Besides making some of my favorite nail polishes, OPI also has a great line of cuticle and hand products. The Avoplex Cuticle Oil is a constant in my collection of products. I buy two at a time, one for my purse and one for my desk. The small, convenient bottle has a brush tip, which helps make gliding the oil on your cuticles easy and not messy. It's a non-drip formula, so you can put it on and go. The oil includes avocado, sunflower, sesame and kukui nut oils. The best thing about this is the avocado oil, which the skin absorbs completely, not leaving a greasy feeling that some oils can have. This product is available at ULTA beauty and wherever OPI products are sold.
Vaseline Intensive Rescue Healing Hand Cream
This is another staple in my purse. The fragrance free lotion is great for hands and all over. Once again, a non-greasy formula makes this lotion one of my favorites for the colder winter months. Although I love lotions that smell like flowers and whatever else, they do tend to dry the skin out. The absence of fragrance makes the light-weight formula ideal for colder months when your hands are dry and sometimes cracked. This product is available in any drug store.
Baby Lips,
Dr. Rescue
This line from Maybeline has been a lifesaver for me. They come in different shades, which aren't lipsticks, just subtle color. I love the clear one – it's menthol and smooth, but not sticky at all. Maybeline claims that the Baby Lips products restore hydration to dry cracked lips, and I can attest to that. The nice thing about the colored ones is that you can still have a little class and not have to blob Carmex all over your lips.
Redken Extreme Anti Snap Shampoo, Conditioner
and Leave-in Treatment
While this product is a little pricey, it is completely worth it for damaged, dry hair. The shampoo and conditioner smell great and the leave-in treatment has been a lifesaver for my bleached hair. Helping to mend split ends and keep moisture in hair, this is a great product for hair that feels dull and lifeless during the winter months. With more moisture in the hair, it cuts down on the dreaded static that we all get when the air is below zero like it has been the last several weeks.
Wiegand is a reporter for the Lifestyle and Entertainment departments. She can be reached at email@example.com.


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Benefit planned for Terry Green
A benefit dinner with live entertainment and an auction/raffle is planned for Terry Green and his family.
In May, Green was seriously injured in a car accident.
The Frazee man is now on the road to recovery, but still has weeks of therapy ahead of him.
The benefit will help defray medical expenses that the family will continue to incur in the coming months.
The dinner will be held at the Frazee Event Center on Saturday, Sept. 8 from 5-10 p.m. Free will donations will be accepted.
Those who cannot attend but would like to help may send donations to: Terry Green Benefit, Bremer Bank, 115 Holmes St. E., Detroit Lakes, MN, 56501.


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Tata Motors (TTMT IN)
- Co. says LIC of India has cut its stake in the Co. to 5.24% from 7.27%. (Newswires)
- Co. has been downgraded to Sell from Hold at Deutsche Bank. (Newswires)
Reliance Industries (RIL IN)
- Co. reports net income INR 55bln Vs. Exp. 50.1bln (Prev. 44bln). (Newswires)
Telephone Companies
- Telephone companies may have to cut STD charges and roaming charges since the government promised to cut roaming charges. (Economic Times)
For more Indian stock news, please access the link below to be directed to the Economic Time's list of 12 stocks in focus.
21 Jan 2013 - 03:37 - Equities - Source: Newswires / Economic Times
RANsquawk provides audio news and commentary for over 15,000 professional traders and brokers worldwide. Services include:


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A method is evaluated for estimating the absorption coefficient a and the backscattering coefficient bb from measurements of the upward and downward irradiances Eu(z) and Ed(z). With this method, the reflectance ratio R(z) and the downward diffuse attenuation coefficient Kd(z) obtained from Eu(z) and Ed(z) are used to estimate the inherent optical properties R∞ and K∞ that are the asymptotic values of R(z) and Kd(z), respectively. For an assumed scattering phase function , there are unique correlations between the values of R∞ and K∞ and those of a and bb that can be derived from the radiative transfer equation. Good estimates of a and the Gordon parameter G = bb/(a + bb) can be obtained from R∞ and K∞ if the true scattering phase function is not greatly different from the assumed function. The method works best in deep, homogeneous waters, but can be applied to some cases of stratified waters. To improve performance in shallow waters where bottom effects are important, the deep- and shallow-measurement reflectance models also are developed.
© 1997 Optical Society of AmericaFull Article | PDF Article


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I literally dreamed last night that I was talked into ingesting not one, not two, not six, but a full dozen hits of LSD. Bear in mind that this is nowhere close to my waking lifestyle, which includes children and a job and a lawn that needs to be mowed and getting the minivan off to DEQ for its biannual visit. But dreamland has its own story to tell, and so there I was, beginning to feel all...sizzly...and regretting it because as I had realized, picayune life continued apace. The kids, the house, the lawn, the minivan, I still had things to do. Only now my brain was on fire.
The alarm went off. Oh, yes, I'm in L.A., the press tour, and today is NBC which means the first smiling face I'll see post-shower will be that of Ben Silverman, the network's trippy new entertainment chief. Recall his odd exhortations and self-adoring observations. And that's just the first of two solid weeks of network TV hype that will psychedelicize our brains in the next few days. Then we'll rainbow spiral round and round and tremble, and explode.
Identify the song reference in the previous sentence and I'll send you some official TCA network swag. A t-shirt. A tote bag. Something like that. I'm serious.
So the AMC party for "Mad Men" at the Friars Club last night. I can literally see the FC from my room, it's just across Santa Monica Blvd. And yet there was bus service, and many of my peeps trooped eagerly onto the buses in order to make the .25 of a mile (counting the end-o-the-block to the crosswalk back and forth) in climate-controlled comfort. I walked. The club itself is a triumphalist monolith: windowless, featureless, very much like the sort of roadside function hall you'd have your wedding reception in if you lived in New Jersey and maybe didn't want to drop a lot of coin on the affair. It's dark inside, purposefully so, and smoky. Male cast members from the show were puffing on cigars. Eww. Everything very 1960: simple American swank food (roast beef, roast turkey, etc) and the bars churning out Manhattans and scotch and (in a nod toward more foodie tastes) a cabernet that was actually pretty good.
Anyway, it was all pretty low-key, and then a jazz band started up from the stage, featuring Mr. Jeff Goldblum on piano, and he's actually quite good and serious about music. He is also extremely tall and thin, and kind of twists himself up, pretzel-like, behind the keyboard. So jazz and booze and TV critics. . . if that's not a perfect evening at the Friar's, I don't know what.
Got in early and watched the pilot of "Damages," the new Glenn Close series on FX. Was riveted for much of it...she's great in it, playing a morally-neutral and perhaps quite evil civil lawyer in haute NYC...but then the series took a wild turn in its closing minutes that I was less sure about. Will watch more today or tomorrow and get back to you in print next week.
That's it for now. Time to shower and change and get ready to face the Peacocks. Will report back in mid-session.


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Alabamians' combined incomes are up from their pre-recession peak, despite the fact that roughly 140,000 fewer people are working.
One possible explanation for this is that the jobs that were lost in the recession did not pay high wages. This theory appears to be supported by the fact that employment in construction shrank by more than 34 percent between the start of 2008 and 2012, while employment in education and healthcare grew roughly three percent.
But merely comparing percent changes in total employment doesn't quite do the job of capturing the importance of an industry to the state's economy. For example, while it's true that construction lost 34 percent of its jobs, what if the industry wasn't that large to begin with? Then the impact of those losses would not be so substantial.
Fortunately, there is a way to compare the impact of each industry in Alabama: detailed gross domestic product (GDP) estimates from the Bureau of Economic Analysis.
For example, in 2006 the BEA estimates that the construction industry contributed roughly $8.1 billion to Alabama's economy, while the healthcare industry contributed $10.7 billion. Since then, those industries' contributions have only diverged.
In 2011, the BEA estimated that health care contributed roughly $13 billion to Alabama's economy, compared to $7.6 billion for construction.
Put another way: five years ago, health care was roughly 32 percent larger than construction. Now, it is 71 percent larger.
That said, both industries are dwarfed by manufacturing, an industry that is still down from its peak output level ($28.2 billion in 2006) but up somewhat from its recession low. Since 2009, when manufacturing contributed $23.8 billion to Alabama's economy, the industry has grown roughly nine percent, to $25.9 billion.
Like construction, the real estate industry has also been in decline recently, contracting since 2008 to its current size of just over $15 billion. Meanwhile, finance and insurance has grown every year since 2004, and in 2011 contributed roughly $10.4 billion.


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« Harnett County hosts large animal rescue workshop | Main | Woodward to appear on Sunday »
September 20, 2007
Fall Festival held at Center for Environmental Farming Systems
On average, the food most people in Wayne County will sit down to eat tonight, will have traveled about 1,500 miles to reach their plates.
At the Center for Environmental Farming Systems at Cherry Research Farm on Saturday, though, visitors had the opportunity to buy and eat food from a little closer to home.
Hosting their second annual Fall Festival, officials at CEFS said they were pleased at the turnout, estimating that more than 1,000 people took advantage of the warm, sunny day to come learn a little bit about farming and the importance of eating local.
Read more from The News-Argus
Posted by Natalie at September 20, 2007 02:04 PM


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Every day at the Loaves & Fishes central kitchen in Multnomah Village, 5,000 meals are prepared – 3,000 are delivered to seniors through the Meals on Wheels program and 2,000 are served at 36 centers around the metro area.
On Friday, as part of the weekend of service in honor of Martin Luther King, eight volunteers wearing regulation hairnets joined food-prep staff in the 14,000-square-foot kitchen.
Carol Frye and Polly Alexander dealt with a huge tub of green bell peppers destined for a pepper slaw. Frye cut them in half and Alexander deseeded them.
"This is not a sit-around place," Frye said approvingly, noting that Loaves & Fishes makes efficient use of its volunteers. She would know: She's chief operating officer at United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.
Alexander, who has volunteered as a Meals on Wheels driver for five years, wanted to see the process from the start and help put the meal together. Nearby, volunteer Shawn Bell spooned barbecue sauce over chicken thighs -- one per compartmentalized meal tray. In the other two compartments: a red-skinned potato and mixed vegetables.
Each tray then went to a conveyor belt to be sealed with cellophane. Valorie Bradley's job was to make sure the veggies were lying correctly so they wouldn't get stuck in the machine.
Bradley moved here recently from St. Louis, and hopes volunteering will allow her to get to know local people and nonprofit organizations.
Next to her Kate Sanger, who volunteered through her school, Lewis & Clark College, stamped a date sticker on cellophane-sealed meals. They would be distributed to seniors all over Portland on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
The volunteers finished their four-hour shift 20 minutes early.
Frye's verdict: "We were quick. Working hard. That was fun."


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The 2017 One Book, One Philadelphia selection was announced this morning! We are very excited to share that for its 15th anniversary season, One Book will dive into Mark Haddon's The Curious… continue reading
By Julie B. October 27, 2016
Each month the Regional Foundation Center's Inforum newsletter features a local funder, nonprofit, or service provider who discusses their organization's services and how they support… continue reading
By Jennifer B. October 26, 2016
We're a week away from the scariest, spookiest, most superstitious night of the year— Halloween ! If you are looking for something to watch to get you in the holiday spirit, look no… continue reading
By Peter SM October 25, 2016 1
The Free Library of Philadelphia's IT department has just completed a wireless upgrade throughout all our 53 neighborhood libraries! To paraphrase an old sci-fi show , "We have the… continue reading
By Administrator October 24, 2016 6
The Technology Learning Collaborative (TLC) , an association of service organizations from throughout Philadelphia committed to leveraging technology resources to reduce poverty, improve… continue reading
By Harry F. October 19, 2016
Years ago, a program called Poetry in Motion placed poetry posters in transit systems of various cities all over the United States, including Philadelphia . You may have seen one of the… continue reading
By Monica C. October 18, 2016 1
The Free Library of Philadelphia IT Digital Development team has updated the "Find a Location" section of our website today with a new responsive design layout and many new features.… continue reading
By Peter SM October 17, 2016
Get HYPE Philly! team and teen participants alike learn new things all the time about the benefits of different foods and how to prepare them. At a recent HYPE program with culinary educator… continue reading
By Khyra L. October 13, 2016 15
It's time to think of costumes and go trick-or-treating in the neighborhood! How about getting ready for Halloween with some old friends? Join Llama Llama , Farmer Brown and the Barnyard… continue reading
By Monica C. October 12, 2016
The Anti-Hero figure in pop culture isn't necessarily a new concept but has seemed to become the prevalent form of a "hero" that we see in our media nowadays. The idea of the perfect… continue reading
By Peter SM October 12, 2016 1
It's that time of year again—the beginning of fall when temperatures start to fall and the pumpkin spice must flow. That means it's almost Teen Read Week —the week of… continue reading
By Rachel F. October 11, 2016
The "King of the Monsters" roars back onto movie screens next week when Shin Godzilla (a.k.a. Godzilla Resurgence ) premieres for a limited-run of U.S. screenings October 11 - 18 . The… continue reading
By Peter SM October 7, 2016
This week marks my one-year anniversary working for the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, the non-profit organization that supports the Free Library. I was hired as the system's… continue reading
By Kate C. October 7, 2016
Does the 2016 election have you feeling anxious? Are your news and social media feeds just too much for you some days? Are you randomly and for no reason starting fights with family… continue reading
By Rachel F. October 6, 2016 2
The World Builders Writing Club is a diverse group of aspiring authors who meet once a month and showcase some of their work on the Free Library blog. Please enjoy this first… continue reading
By Tamoul Q. October 5, 2016 1
Louise Fitzhugh is perhaps best known for her novel Harriet the Spy , published in 1964 and lauded today as a classic children's fiction work. Both written and illustrated by Fitzhugh,… continue reading
By Becky F. October 5, 2016
At the beginning of every month, a new Early Literacy calendar —compiled by Free Library of Philadelphia's children's librarians—can be found on our blog. It is filled… continue reading
By Monica C. October 4, 2016
Ahhh… Fall is finally in the air! Time to get out your jackets, scarves, and galoshes! This month's Early Literacy calendar and links, compiled by Free Library of Philadelphia's… continue reading
By Sarah S. October 3, 2016
by Darrian Hopson "Mom, can I stay home today?" "Mom, I overslept!" "I just don't feel like going to school today, we're not doing anything, anyway."… continue reading
By Abby T. September 30, 2016
October is Health Literacy Month , a month dedicated to promoting the importance of understandable health information. The month was first honored as an annual worldwide event in 1999 and… continue reading
By Melanie M. September 30, 2016 1


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Two city-owned lots near the Mandeville lakefront that are at the center of a controversial public land deal have been targeted for purchase by a developer who would build a boutique hotel on the site, the City Council was told Thursday night.
Selling the city lots, which are located on Girod Street a block off Lake Pontchartrain and are currently used for parking, is part of Mayor Donald Villere's plan to move public parking areas from prime corner lots to public squares located behind businesses within city blocks, known in places such as Covington as "ox lots." The plan entails purchasing a 20,474 square-foot lot adjacent to the city property near the intersection of Claiborne and Girod streets and using that space for public parking. The land would cost the city about $190,000, he said, an amount that would likely be offset by the sale of the property the city now owns to the hotel developer.
Villere outlined his proposal before the City Council but asked that action on the matter be delayed until final details could be ironed out.
"We have a developer who has great interest in purchasing the current parking lots from the city," Villere said, reading from a statement. "They (the developer) are in the process of refining their numbers. I have ordered an appraisal of the property. I ask the council to put off any vote to allow the administration to develop information to hopefully result in a sale of city property."
Len Mitchell, a local architect, told the council he was working with the developer who wants to build a boutique hotel on the two city lots. He provided no further details on the project but said it "looks very, very real."
Villere's land swap plan met with opposition when it was announced in March. Councilman Ernest Burguieres, whose district includes the lakefront area, said he and many of his constituents oppose the purchase. "I don't think the city should be spending money on parking lots" that primarily benefit private businesses, he has said.
On Thursday night, Burguieres questioned city officials as to whether a study was done to determine the parking needs in the area and if business owners had been consulted. Planning Director Louisette Kidd answered no to both questions.
Councilman Rick Danielson said he too has questions as to why the city should invest money to purchase property for parking for private businesses. "I believe it's up to small business to take care of small business," he said.
But Danielson said he was willing mull over the issue and to go along with Villere's request to defer action on the matter.
Villere said city parking lots help keep cars from parking in front of residences in the mixed-use area.
"It is not unusual for parking to be assisted by a city to minimize on-street parking in front of residential properties and to locate it in needed areas," he said.
Several other speakers spoke in favor the land deal, while other said they were either confused by it or against it.
The council voted 4-1 to defer vote on the land deal. Burguieres voted in opposition.


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ArtMinds® White Wood Letter T, 9" - White - T - 9 in
Item # 10378886
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Inspiration is in your hands with this wood letter. Pair it with others to create a monogram, spell out a sentiment or to create a sign. It is perfect for personalizing your home décor and craft projects. Made from wood and painted white, it's ready for your creative personalization.
- White painted wood
- 9" tall
Inspiration is in your hands with this wood letter. Pair it with others to create a monogram, spell out a sentiment or to create a sign. It is perfect for personalizing your home décor and craft projects. Made from wood and painted white, it's ready for your creative personalization.
- White painted wood
- 9" tall
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Shipping & Returns
Most products may be shipped via standard ground (delivered in 5-7 business days), second day or next day. Orders placed by noon (12:00 PM) Central Time using second day or next day will ship the same day. We also offer a ship-to-store option that allows your order to be delivered to any of our Michaels store locations. View Full Shipping Policy and Pricing ›
If your Michaels.com purchase does not meet your satisfaction, you may return it within six months (180 days) of purchase. To return an item (excluding sample products), the item must be new, unused and in its original packaging. You may return the item to a Michaels store or by mail. View Full Return Policy ›
ArtMinds® White Wood Letter, 9" is rated out of 5 by 28.
Rated 5 out of 5 by brandie from great I used this product 3 times. Twice for my son's name for a wall decoration (first one i accidentally ruined but not fault of product) and one for the word love in my den/tv room. easy to paint, modpodge to scrapbooking paper and trim with an exactoknife. I plan to use again if i have another child for their room as well. this item has holes in the back so one can hang it with screws (not included)
Date published: 2016-08-27
Rated 3 out of 5 by Allie88 from Crooked The other letters worked well but the "I" hangs crooked on the wall because the nail hole is not centered on the back
Date published: 2016-08-22
Rated 4 out of 5 by sawk from Bought 2l letters one won't hang straight, the other is fine . My husband will make it hang right , but he shouldn't have too!
Date published: 2016-08-21
Rated 4 out of 5 by Danalew72 from Unfortunately for the craft i wanted to do, this was not a good choice due to the curves in the letters. I'd return it, but I don't have my receipt.
Date published: 2016-07-30
Rated 5 out of 5 by JANET from BABY We bought these letters to decorate a Baby Shower. Easy to paint and a nice big size. Easy to work with. Added a nice touch to our decorations.
Date published: 2016-06-30
Rated 4 out of 5 by Craftlover from White Letters - Great for Decorating These Michaels' letters are beautifully painted white so that they can be used as a white letter to hang or kids can decorate. Got two letters for two 13 year old girls to paint for their room and they loved it. Easy, fun craft that allows kids of all ages to be designers. I think it would be a better bargin if a little cheaper, or a discount for getting so many letters for a certain price.
Date published: 2016-05-30
Rated 3 out of 5 by Wendy from Doesn't match The set of letters are a block style. The letter J does not match this set at all. It has a rounded bottom which is inconsistent with all of the other letters in this set.
Date published: 2016-05-28
Rated 5 out of 5 by Tiffany from This product is great! I purched 20 mason jars to use in the wedding for my center pieces. I got a bunch of other small craft supplies, I love Michaels! The quality and prices has me coming back for more!
Date published: 2016-05-16


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We have found that students may see junk (XX008670), in place of a YouTube video for instance, if you have clicked on Use Reusable Objects under the HTML box. We have turned this option off until it can be repaired. If you experience issues because we have turned the option off, please let us know.
Last updated: 07-26-2012


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The West Salem Titans wrapped up their final day of fall camp Wednesday marking the final team activity before fall practice officially begins next Monday.
West Salem went 8-2 overall last season and 4-1 in the Central Valley Conference finishing second behind Sprague. The Titans earned a home playoff game, but were upset by Glencoe 49-34 in the opening round. Heading into the 2014 season, the Titans look to again be one of the top teams in their league. The Titans bring back all-leaugers in quarterback Cade Smith, wide receiver Keegen Hlad and running back Gary Garvin. In addition to a talented group of skill players, the Titans have a good group of linemen headline by seniors Sala Manu and Roman Klieber as well as junior Jacob Kizer.
In the gallery above, view photos from Wednesday's practice.
-- Mike Richman | @mikegrich


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Earlier this week we wrote about how China is using its fiscal reserves to help retire some of the bad debts shelved off to the big "asset management companies" back in 1999 — with a big hat-tip to Chen Long, of INET's China Economics Seminar.
Some more interesting news has been revealed by our colleague Paul J Davies in Hong Kong, who has a great story — two stories, in fact — about what Cinda and fellow AMC, Huarong, are doing. Read more


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Captain Sue's Snorkel Charter, water activities, Fred at activity center
More informative of resort layout at check in, assigned parking
Liked everything. Service, room, everything was great!
The location was great! The pool is ok but gets better after a few drinks. The beach activities are fun too. Had a great time snorkeling and paddle boarding. The food was AMAZING and very reasonable priced.
The $25 resort fee is a joke(it includes parking, internet, and beach activities). If I have paid for a hotel, I don't want to have to pay more once I get there just to check in. The rooms were very small and had non functional furniture. There is nowhere to store your clothing. The water trampoline had a big tare in it so bouncing was out. The large inflatable rafts in the lagoon all had popped and were removed from the water during our stay. The pool was ok but really needed some upkeep. The bar looked like it was about to topple over into the pool. The alcohol was overpriced. All and all, we had a good time with our friends and family but I doubt I would come back. The resort was way too expensive for the value I received.
The location and staff were great.
Our room was very noisy when others were in the hall or adjacent rooms; this made it very difficult to sleep. A construction crew started working outside of our room very early in the morning.
Our A/C wasn't very cold.
The resort is undergoing renovations, and the amenities in service are very dated.
The area was under a small craft advisory during our stay and they wouldn't let us use the watersports equipment.
Friendly staff, great location
Room could have been cleaner
The location is perfect. It is also pet friendly.
The beds were way too short and I'm just average height, 5'6". The bathroom does not have air conditioning or exhaust fans.
This hotel is pretty old but it was very clean. The staff was great. When there was an issue with the toilet in one of the rooms, they immediately moved us. The pool area was nice and the sandy beachy area was like a television commercial.
Water front
Beachy feel
Shower was small, old, and dirty
Air conditioning unit didn't cool well all night
Room was old
There was a little plate full of something weird ontop of the toilet cover. I looked like wet salt. Not sure what that was for.
Breakfast awesome fresh
Construction all day next door, no food at property. The have a bar/tiki but it is closed. Rug in rooms very clammy. Only to sleep and leave.
Great waterfront view from our room, heated pools, and nice harbor for the boats. Covered parking was nice and the staff was also very friendly.
You are charged a daily resort fee not included in the original cost, but I have to say it's less of a resort and more of a hotel.
The hotel is located on the water with access to boats and water activity. There is also the convenience of a bar and restaurant on site. The room was clean and the space was adequate but I would not stay for one more night. The AC problem was reported to the general manager and she said they would fix it when they cleaned the room which did not solve the problem for us or offer any type of compensation.
I came to this hotel for one night for business. The AC was not working from the time we entered the room. We put it down to 60 degrees and sweat the entire night. The door to the room was extremely hard to open and close and it did not close completely leaving a large gap.
The staff was very friendly and welcoming.
The smell of the cleaning solution was overpowering. Had to leave the room for a while. Also on our first nights stay our coffee pot was left on and we noticed it the next day when we went to make coffee
Location, staff, accommodations everything was perfect!
The room was great! Had everything we needed and more! Wish we booked more days. We will be back!
The room was nice and spacious. We enjoyed being able to walk down and access the water without having to go anywhere. The restaurant was delicious and workers were super friendly.
The front desk staff when we checked in weren't very engaging. Even when we checked out they were very matter of fact and didn't try to engage us. When we were walking out there was one that ask if we had fun and enjoyed our stay. She definetly out shined anyone else working in that department.
Everything! Felt very private everywhere! The grounds were beautiful. Decor elegant. Staff very nice and incredibly accommodating.
Service at bar and restaurant a little slow to start. Would like the pool water to be a little cooler.
Loved it, the amenities were great considering most resorts charge you for all the activities. The food and service was great and the place is so beautiful and lush.
Awesome aquarium type dock area with many species. Staff also were outstanding!
Owner made it very convinient for late check in. Great customer service!!
Tv needed updating
Everything! There are no words to describe how perfect this place is! Beautiful, friendly, exceptional and the price is extremely reasonable for what you get. I want to live there!!!
Great location - amazing spot to watch the sunrise in the morning.
Very noisy air conditioner. Had to turn that off to sleep at night.
Awesome location, beautiful grounds, and an amazing beach front. Rooms were modern despite an older feel to the resort.
Construction at the time of visit. They cut through a sewer line near my room and it was stanky. Was a minor annoyance and did not detract from my trip. But you may want to check and make sure the constuction has been completed.
Would highly recommend. Service was excellent. Room was comfy and nice.
Location. Easy access to restaurants and small beaches.
Could be a nice place after a full renovation. Rooms are 'tired'. They feel dirty even if clean. Peeling paint. Cracked tile. Ancient linens. 3 friendly staff members who work limited hours. Ice machine is behind a locked door so we never had ice.
Location good, room very cute.
The children of managers were running all over all the time, running around underfoot with a tiny puppy that has us all (4) worried for its safety. The parrots in the cages had filthy water and no food which worried us also.The vacation ruined place empty
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Tickets for The Band Perry go on sale at 9 a.m. today, Thursday, March 21, and Styx tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, March 22.
Use the comment section below to share your favorite songs.
Here is how to snag your seats:
Styx play at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 7 at The Temple Theatre.
Tickets available at The Temple Theatre Box Office, online www.templetheatre.com and by phone 877 / 754-SHOW (7469).
Lynyrd Skynyrd perform 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11, The Band Perry go on Monday, Aug. 12, at the Midland County Fair.
Tickets for both are available at the fair box office, by calling 989-835-7901 and at all StarTickets outlets, cost $54.50 for the first 10 rows on the track, $34.50 for the remaining track and center grandstand seating and $29.50 for seating in the grandstand ends.