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Beat the Streak Report: Thursday, April 15
Thursday's recommended picks
Manny Ramirez, OF, Dodgers
.577 AVG (15-for-26) lifetime vs. D-backs starter Dan Haren
Prince Fielder, 1B, Brewers
.364 AVG (12-for-33) lifetime vs. Cubs starter Carlos Zambrano
Hunter Pence, OF, Astros
.360 AVG (9-for-25) lifetime vs. Cardinals starter Kyle Lohse
BTS all-time leader: Michael Karatzia, 49
MLB all-time leader: Joe DiMaggio, 56
Yesterday's results
It was a good day for much of the BTS faithful, as 12 of the Top 15 most selected players came through with at least one hit.
However, one of hitless games came courtesy of Matt Holliday, the day's most popular pick. Holliday's 0-for-4 performance ended the streaks of 13.6 percent of fans.
So with 11 games down, we have our first official leader count: 808 are tied for the top spot. While we're still a long way off from Joe D's record, a double-digit BTS streak is nothing to sneeze at, so kudos to all those who have gotten off to a hot start.
Yesterday's Top 5 most selected players
1. Matt Holliday (STL): 13.6%, 0-for-4
2. Albert Pujols (STL): 5.2%, 1-for-4
3. Joe Mauer (MIN): 5.1%, 1-for-4
4. Placido Polanco: (PHI): 4.6%, 2-for-4
5. Ryan Braun (MIL): 4.3%, 1-for-5
35 Comments
I got knocked out by Holliday last night. Pretty sad when your only hope is that somehow the Astros take it into extra innings.
Pedroia for today. Today is a hard day for those in 1st place. There isn't one player that I feel very confident in.
Today I'm going with Polanco. Let me tell you what I did. I had Polanco for yesterday all of last week and up until Tuesday night. I had Holliday for tonight I decided to switch them because I felt that maybe Holliday would be the better choice as he was doing better against Myers so I switched them for today and yesterday. I saw Polanco got a hit yesterday and if Holliday gets a hit today I'm going to be upset as I should of left it the way I had it from the beginning.
well i took hanley ramirez. so we shall see what happens.
back to flipping ZERO
I went against my intuition and picked Holliday for yesterday. At least I only had a 1 streak going.
For tomorrow, I'm picking one of the Giants. The opposing pitcher is Vicente Padilla. He has been giving up a lot of hits. Him and Jason Marquis are giving up lots of them.
im gonna go with ryan the riot, he gets a ton of ab's and seems to be hitting the ball well, suppan tends to give up a lot of hits.
taking polanco today. to say marquis is giving up alot of hits so far isnt fair to him. hes had to face the phillies line up twice. any pitcher who has to do that is going to look as bad as he has.
I thought Pedroia had good numbers, dunno why people didnt give him that much consideration. I think Mauer will get a hit too against the knuckleballer too.
This is the 5th time a cardinal has been selected by the most people. 3 of the first 4 that cardinal went 0 fer. He was my first choice until i saw that. Switched to Pedroia. Glad i did. Pujols 0-1 so far.
Could be some long ball at Wrigley Field today. Wind is blowing out toward centerfield. Pitchers will have to be sharp or their mistakes will end up in the bleachers or on the streets behind the bleachers, Waveland or Sheffield Avenues.
Went with Dustin Pedroia today as he hits Liriano well.
Read that Liriano is MN 5th starter. Got my fingers crossed.
Tip of the Day – For new players – if you choose schedule from the selection bar and go to the pitchers of a game and click on their name you get a quick bit of info on them. Can be helpful. e.g. Saw that Nats starter today, Olsen, had a re-hab start in minors and went 6 innings and gave up 8 hits.
Good Luck to all today.
I think 20% will go down with Pujols and Mauer not getting any hits. The 2 Rolls Royce's of Beat The Streak will hit the wall. Thank you Pedroia for getting me to an easy W3 on the second pitch that you saw. Had I picked him on Monday I would have been at a 12 streak.
Well I got spooked with the response to my Posada pick – I had good reason (avg., avg. vs. starter, avg. at night, slugging %). So I'm going with Polanco again. Good luck everyone! I agree that there is no warm, fuzzy feeling today – not liking anyone really…..
Somebody pray for my 11-gamer. I took Helton. He's not starting. But it's the NL, where pinch-hitters abound. Please don't let him grab a bat all day.
thanks, btle.
Pedroia was the only one I really considered, and he came through pretty easily.
I would petition that Holliday go on the no-pick list… jerk. A very dumb pick on my part though. I should have known better.
Well anyone who thinks that he has this game figured out read on: Minnesota 8 – Red Sox 0 – MN totals 15 hits but Mauer is 0 -4 ——–Red Sox have 6 hits and Pedroia has 3 of them. Dustin Pedrioa is white hot! Time to look at tomorrow picks.
Pujols 2-4. PLEASE Mr. Polanco hit the ball already lol. I'll be watching Posada as well!!!!
Well bottom of the 6th untill Polanco finaly gets me a single to go to 12. Good luck to those waiting tonight, and condolences to those who had Mauer or Holliday
Good. Helton doesn't come to bat. 11-gamer intact, thinking on Polanco or Renteria for Friday.
i had mauer 2day and he went 0-4 with a walk and my streak ended.bt wut i dont understand is that in the rules it says "ur streak will not end if ur players plate appearances result in a base on balls, hit batsman, defensive interference or a sacrifice bunt.so then y did mine get reset to 0?? does any1 know?
well if his only at bat was a walk or thro out the whole game he just walk he never really had a offical at bat, but if he got a o-1 with 3 walks u back to donuts because he did had 1 at bat lol
The rule applies if those events occur for ALL the at bats. Look at the beginning of the rule – "A hitting streak will also NOT end if each of the selected player's (including Jumpstart Pick) plate appearances…."
My pick was David Wright. He got walked 3 times. I hate that.
i will love to pick polanco again tomorrow but the weather seems bad for tomorrow :[ that goes for new york 2 so no jeter either tough day tomorrow !!!!
The old baseball announcer saying: "A walk is as good as a hit" does not apply to BTS. Walks are our enemy. That is one reason it is so dangerous to pick the power hitters like Pujols, Howard, Fielder, Gonzalez. They get pitched around too much. You need to go with the free swingers who rarely walk and never see a pitch as something they can't hit. While the "rules" have been mentioned the tip of the day is never pick a player whose team is scheduled for a double header. If your player plays in both games, he must get a hit in both games for your streak to advance one game. If he playes in only one game and gets a hit your BTS advances one game. If he goes 5 – 5 in game 1 and goes 0-1 in game 2 your streak ends. Do not take this chance. Unfair but those are the rules!
THANK YOU firstname.lastname@example.com – I really thought I had a good pick in Posada. The numbers were there. Your post helped me dodge a big bullet (am now at 12.) GOOD LUCK to you!!
no problem buddy im here to help. congrats on getting to 12th.
It's not going to be bad weather in NY tomorrow. I know since I live in the BX. It's supposed to be cold but that's it.
vinny1979 if you look at the weather channel its supposed to start raining in the bronx a few hours before the start of the yankee game
any opinions for friday? im thinking either stephen drew or alcides escobar
The old baseball announcer saying: "A walk is as good as a hit" does not apply to BTS. Walks are our enemy. That is one reason it is so dangerous to pick the power hitters like Pujols, Howard, Fielder, Gonzalez. They get pitched around too much. You need to go with the free swingers who rarely walk and never see a pitch as something they can't hit. While the "rules" have been mentioned the tip of the day is never pick a player whose team is scheduled for a double header. If your player plays in both games, he must get a hit in both games for your streak to advance one game. If he playes in only one game and gets a hit your BTS advances one game. If he goes 5 – 5 in game 1 and goes 0-1 in game 2 your streak ends. Do not take this chance. Unfair but those are the rules!"
That is probably a reaction against the overly-generous rule that used to be in place where your streak would continue if your pick got a hit in EITHER game?
Maybe when the # of years with the 1st rule is balanced out by the # of years with the 2nd rule, they will use a 3rd fairer rule of your streak being extended for each game he gets a hit in.
With that said, I remember large numbers of people with double-digit streaks still picking Chipper Jones in a doubleheader, when he was on his run with .400 in 2008!
"vinny1979 if you look at the weather channel its supposed to start raining in the bronx a few hours before the start of the yankee game"
It is only supposed to be about 1/4 inch of rainfall, but it is really hard to tell with the Yankees.
They cancelled Opening Day in 2008 because of drizzle/overcast conditions, but then they showed a clip of Opening Day from 1996 and there was moderate-heavy snow falling and they played the whole game on time without delays.
So there is not sound data there.
*** Bad weather in NY tonight could mean a doubleheader tomorrow. I would avoid it. (Am from the Bronx as well – just don't live there anymore.) 🙂
I like Renteria for tonight……any thoughts????
btsron thanks so much for the congrats and the response – do have to tell you though that I'm not a guy LOL……
haha, we are all MEN here!
I would go with Fukudome here.
Cannot picture him making 14 outs in a row.
haha not ALL of us r men here lol


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Back in Eighth Grade, my Social Studies class was given one of those typical assignments where we were supposed to pick out some country and write a report about it. Most of the kids picked well-known countries (I chose Austria), but one young lady, Susan Norman, chose the West African nation of Dahomey.
"Dahomey? Are you kidding?" our teacher Mr. Vezie sneered, no doubt thinking that Susan chose this obscure country to get out of doing a lot of work on the project, but she was adamant.
What does this have to do with the subject of today's post? Well, nothing, really, except that in 1975 the Republic of Dahomey changed its name to the Republic of Benin, after the Bight of Benin, which in turn was named after the Benin Empire, a powerful entity that existed from 1440 to 1897 in what is today Nigeria. "Benin" is a Portuguese corruption of "Ubinu," the administrative center of the Empire, which is today called Benin City, capital of Edo State.
Dahomey's rechristening in 1975 has caused no end of confusion ever since, so to clarify things: Benin City (& hence the historical Benin Empire) is approximately 250 miles east of Porto Novo, capital of the present-day Republic of Benin. The two entities have no historical connection! The map at right shows the sphere of influence of the Benin Empire at the height of its power. To further muddy the waters there was once another "Republic of Benin," which was established by retreating Biafran troops in the early days of the Nigerian civil war (see map below, from John de St. Jorre's Nigerian Civil War, Hodder & Stoughton, 1972, click to enlarge). This historical curiosity was proclaimed at 7 a.m. on September 20, 1967 and collapsed eight hours later!
The Benin Empire encompassed Ijaws, Igbos, Itsekitris and Urhobos, among other groups, but the Edo people constituted the core of the nation. Even today they are celebrated for their artwork, a sample of which is at the top of this post. Much of this was destroyed when Benin City was captured by the British in 1897, and much of the remainder was dispersed around the world. Today Benin City is renowned as a center of education and culture in Nigeria.
All of this exposition is by way of making up for the fact that I can't tell you a whole lot about today's featured artists. While Victor Uwaifo is justly famed as Benin City's foremost musical exemplar, the area has produced numerous other talents, like Patrick Idahosa, who had a similar sound. I can't say much about him, but among Edo musicians he was probably second only to Uwaifo in popularity during his heyday of the '70s and '80s. In the late '90s, Mossiac Records of New York released a CD compilation (Mossiac MMCD 0302) of his greatest hits, from which the following are taken:
Patrick Idahosa & his African Sound Makers - United Brothers
Patrick Idahosa & his African Sound Makers - Tamoubiyememwsm
Patrick Idahosa & his African Sound Makers - Tamiyaregbe
Patrick Idahosa & his African Sound Makers - United Brothers
Patrick Idahosa & his African Sound Makers - Tamoubiyememwsm
Patrick Idahosa & his African Sound Makers - Tamiyaregbe
The Amunataba Dance Band are similarly obscure to me, but what a fine album Akenzua (Mikii MAK 504, 1978) is! Sweet guitar highlife in the Peacocks mode, and isn't the front cover great?
Amunataba Dance Band - Eronmwon
Amunataba Dance Band - Akenzua
Willy Adamosa Osagiede got in touch with me many years ago, and even sent me a CD of his recent recordings. Like all of the musicians here, he was most popular in the '70s and '80s. He's presently based in the San Francisco Bay Area, and you can access his MySpace page here. Here are some tracks from his 1976 LP Ukpakon (Afrodisia DWAPS 70):
Adamosa Osagiede & his International Band - Amayamwen Nue
Adamosa Osagiede & his International Band - Igho Nogie
Adamosa Osagiede & his International Band - Wa Gha Hio
Osayomore Joseph's Afro-funk sound has recently drawn some notice thanks to his contribution to the recent Soundway compilation Nigeria Special. Here's a song from his 1982 LP Ulele in Transit (Emotan EMOLP 01):
Osayomore Joseph & the Ulele Power Sound - Efewedo
And here's one from another 1982 album Over the Bar. . . I Beg You . . . (Emotan EMOLP 02):
Osayomore Joseph & his Ulele Power Sound - Alele
Winding things down in style with Idemudia Cole's Talents of Benin, whose Talents of Benin Vol. 5 (Shanu Olu SOS 127, 1981) is as wonderful an example of Edo highlife as you'll ever find:
The Talents of Benin - Ovbiokhokho


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A hard-driving journalist, Lee Strobel was exactly where he expected to be at work: on top. His award-winning investigative reporting recently earned him a promotion to legal editor at the Chicago Tribune.
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NEW YORK — Imagine a government program that has exploded in size, is the subject of bitter partisan haggling and spends almost $80 billion a year in secret.
No, not the National Security Agency, the CIA or the Department of Homeland Security, which all spend less (as far as anyone call tell). The program in question is food stamps, formally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which now are used by one in six Americans (and about one in five Mainers).
But after the U.S. Department of Agriculture lost a court case in January, in which it opposed telling the public which businesses get all that money, the government is reconsidering: This month, it said it would think about revealing how much money individual retailers receive. The department is accepting public comments on the proposal. If the past is any indication, big-box retailers, supermarkets and convenience stores will oppose it.
Let's hope the department ignores them, if only to make good on the principle that taxpayers deserve to know how their money is spent. Nor is there sound legal precedent for withholding food-stamp spending data. Other social programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, provide a bounty of data on how much specific vendors receive in government payments and are releasing more all the time.
What might the food-stamp information tell us? At a minimum, we would get confirmation that they make up a large part of the sales of some of the country's biggest retailers, such as Wal-Mart Stores.
Wal-Mart, the nation's largest grocer, has already acknowledged the importance of food stamps in its latest annual report. The retailer warned that if the program ever experienced large spending cuts – as House Republicans unsuccessfully demanded during much of the past two years – its results could be hurt. Wal-Mart had about $279 billion in U.S. sales last year, about half from groceries.
We might also get some insight into where and how fraud occurs in the food-stamp program. That was one rationale in the court ruling, which noted that "Congress has clearly indicated its intent to involve the public in counteracting fraud perpetrated by retailers participating in the program." Although fraud is estimated by the Government Accountability Office at about 1 percent, that's as much as $800 million a year.
If the data were public, watchdogs and the news media could ferret out retailers that do an inordinate amount of food-stamp business, perhaps because they permit misuse of the benefits. This was one of the reasons that the USDA ended up in court in the first place: The Argus Leader, a newspaper in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, filed a Freedom of Information Act request as part of an investigation into claims that beneficiaries received cash from retailers instead of food.
A number of food activists think the Agriculture Department should go further and disclose what products are purchased. The department shouldn't hesitate to do so. Food stamps can be used to buy almost anything, with the exception of tobacco and alcohol and a short list of nonfood goods such as pet food, soap, household supplies and some prepared foods.
That leaves the entire universe of junk food, which is responsible in large measure for the U.S. obesity epidemic. Obtaining product information might help public health officials persuade lawmakers to adopt reasonable prohibitions on food-stamp use; a parallel nutrition program known as Women, Infants and Children already bars almost all heavily processed foods.
Any complaints by the USDA that imposing limits would be too complicated have to be viewed skeptically. Food stamps are stamps in name only: Beneficiaries make purchases with a card much like that used at an automated teller machine. The cards could be programmed to help the USDA glean valuable data on what recipients are buying. With that, the government could develop a "do-not-sell" list that retailers could incorporate into the product codes that are scanned at the point of sale.
This might even pay dividends: Along with ensuring that beneficiaries have healthier diets, it might steal some of the rhetorical heat from those who think that too many people on food stamps are living high on the taxpayer's dime.
— The Washington Post News Service with Bloomberg News
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I have a web application in which there are contents like videos and other types. Let's focus on videos for this case. The videos have the "like" option. The phrasing is like:
(Bold means there's a link)
"You like this video"
"12 people like this video"
"You and 12 others like this video"
The only phrase still causing doubt is the case in which no one has liked the video yet. There are some options I can think of:
"Be the first to like this", in which case it may look like the user is being pushed into liking;
"No one has liked this yet", in which case it may sound negative because of the presence of "no one";
"Like this video", in which case it may sound imperative in comparison to the other phrases used;
It's good to keep in mind we chose to use phrasing and not only numbering (a like button + a number) because of the personality of the users, which is composed by lots of different people (from tech savvy teenagers to elder users, unfamiliar with PC and/or internet).
Thanks in advance.


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Some ladders that do not meet New Zealand safety standards have been banned after one bought on Trade Me collapsed, injuring a man.
Consumer Affairs launched an investigation after a multipurpose ladder promising to carry 150kg collapsed only seconds after Auckland man John Marston, who weighs about 90kg, climbed it.
Officials tested similar ladders made of thin aluminium and found all failed loading requirements.
Consumer Affairs Minister Simon Bridges today announced the ban on multipurpose ladders that do no meet New Zealand and Australian standards. Fines for those who breach it could reach $60,000 for individuals and $200,000 for companies.
"It is unacceptable that the public should be at significant risk of injury from multi-purpose ladders that do not meet Australian and New Zealand safety standards, which is why I have, after consideration, declared an unsafe goods notice," Mr Bridges said.
The ban will be reviewed after 18 months.
Mr Marston told the Herald in May he was lucky not to receive head injuries after the 4.7m-high ladder collapsed within seconds of his using it.
He ruptured his calf muscle and severely strained his left ankle in the January accident in which he fell about three metres.
The ladder, which he bought on Trade Me, had been advertised as meeting European safety standards and having a safe working load of 150kg.
"I can assure you, I'm not 150kg," Mr Marston said .
"It was the first time I'd used it. I got about three-quarters of the way up. And it snapped in half."
Trade Me spokesman Jon Duffy said it was now mandatory for all ladders sold on the site to meet the voluntary Australia and New Zealand standard for ladders.
"We were pretty alarmed by the incident and so at that time we immediately withdrew all of those ladders from the site and we required all new ladders sold on Trade Me to meet that standard, and that has been our policy since that time."
While the announcement by the ministry today related only to multipurpose ladders, Trade Me's current listing policy covered all ladders, he said.


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Crete's top hotels for every vacation style
Crete is the largest island in Greece, located on the southern edge of the Aegean Sea, and it is also home to a fantastic selection of hotels. No matter what your preferred vacation style may be – from the lively family-friendly resorts to the most exclusive adults-only sanctuaries, elegant urban hideaways and romantic beachfront retreats – Crete has you covered.
One for the grownups
Leave the kids at home and check into Chania's most fabulous adults-only resort. With a unique design that pays homage to the domes of the historic Venetian shipyard in nearby Chania, Domes Noruz is an immaculately appointed boutique resort, in which every detail has been meticulously designed to allow couples to disconnect – and reconnect. All the rooms have bathtubs on the terrace, while the upgraded room categories feature plunge pools, while some even come with their own full swimming pool. Common spaces include a private beach, three pools, a buzzing cocktail bar, a restaurant specializing in local cuisine, and a dreamy spa.
Domes Noruz Chania
5 Strati Pantelaki, Agioi Apostoloi, Kato Daratso, Crete, Greece
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One for the sophisticates
If you like the idea of waking up in luxurious, crisp sheets and sliding out of bed into the infinity pool on your private terrace, before sipping a glass of champagne over breakfast, then Blue Palace is the place for you. Idyllically tucked into the Gulf of Elounda, where it enjoys magnificent views of the mythical island of Spinalonga, this low-lying, spacious resort blends perfectly into the surrounding landscape. Apart from its private Blue Flag beach, the hotel also features five superb restaurants and multiple indoor and outdoor pools. Marriott's Luxury Collection hotels are renowned for their superb service and nothing is too much trouble for the Blue Palace staff who go all-out to make this a truly unforgettable stay.
Blue Palace
Plaka, Schisma Elountas, Crete, Greece
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One for the families
This stylish, relaxed mini-resort, set only five km from the bustling town of Chania, is designed to appeal to every member of the family. The design is modern, vibrant and colorful and staff couldn't be more helpful and friendly. While the hotel's youngest visitors love the shallow pool, children's food menu, playroom and ample supply of beach toys, Mum and Dad are grateful for the spa, Thai massage and, last but certainly not least, the two hours of complimentary baby sitting services offered every evening from Monday to Friday.
Ammos Hotel
Irakli Avgoula, Chania, Crete, Greece
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One for the honeymooners
A favorite spot for wedding parties, romantic getaways, honeymooners, and couples renewing their vows, it is easy to see why loved up couples of all shapes and sizes can't get enough of White Palace. While the main building with its giant, central seawater pool (and separate kids area) may appeal to families, most couples opt for the unrivalled privacy of the airy beachfront Yali suites with private plunge pools. For minimum hassle, book the Luxe All-In Living package, which combines unlimited food and premium drinks, 24/7 concierge service, fine dining, activities and entertainment.
LUX ME White Palace
Adelianos Campos, Crete, Greece
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One for the nature lovers
Set among Crete's famous olive groves, eco-friendly Kapsaliana offers the ideal rural retreat for those looking to get away from it all. The hotel, which is steeped in history, also features an 18th-century olive press and its own museum. The outdoor pool is a lush green oasis of calm while the restaurant serves up honest Cretan cuisine, which chef and olive oil expert Vassilis Leonidou prepares lovingly using only the finest locally sourced, seasonal, organic produce. Kapsaliana is surrounded by breathtaking countryside and ancient villages, while golden sandy beaches with turquoise waters are just a 10-minute drive away.
Kapsaliana Village Hotel
Kapsaliana, Municipality of Rethymnon, Crete, Greece
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One for the urbanites
Set right on the docks of Chania's charming Venetian port and steps away from the delightful old town, Ambassador's Residence was Chania's first-ever boutique hotel. Built in neo-classic style, to reflect the history of the building, which was once the home of German Ambassador Mr. Richard Krueger and his wife Wilhelmine, the 13 individually decorated rooms and suites each have their own unique character. Some feature four-poster beds, while others offer stunning sea views, private Jacuzzis and terraces. Ambassador's Residence is the ideal spot for anyone seeking a sophisticated, yet discreet, urban retreat that also offers easy access to all the sparkle of the city.
Ambassador's Residence Boutique Hotel
M.Afentoulief 13 & Akti Tobazi 28, Chania, Crete, Greece
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One for the pleasure seekers
If you like to pamper yourself on vacation, look no further than Daios Cove. All the rooms, suites and villas at this ultra-exclusive hillside beach resort enjoy show-stopping views across the azure-blue waters of Daios Bay and the Med, while many also come with private infinity pools. Apart from five restaurants and bars, a seawater infinity pool and a water sports center, Daois Cove also features its own secluded beach set in a private cove, with golden sand, plush sun loungers, bamboo umbrellas, and a beach bar serving cocktails and food. And don't worry if working up a sweat on the steep Cretan hills doesn't appeal – either hop on one of the hotel's three funiculars or let the helpful staff wizz you around in their golf buggies.
Daios Cove
Vathi, Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece
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Published: August 8, 2019


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Cuban Sandwich
I had my semi-monthly acupuncture appointment. The decision was made to treat me for stress, as always, and food addiction. Okay, I can work with that. I ended up with a multitude of needles in my ears, not the most … Continue reading
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Did you know Carlsbad Art Farm is a supporter of local schools and organizations through donations to silent auctions. Every year, we donate 10 certificates good for one-week at Art Farm summer camp.
This year we have donated certificates to Rancho Santa Fe Community Center, St. Patrick's School in [...]
Did you know Carlsbad Art Farm is a supporter of…Continue
Posted on April 26, 2012 at 10:00am
Hi Perrin, Warm welcome to C&NN Connect. I'm the forum host. I'm glad you found us and hope you make yourself at home in discussions and groups. Our Natural Teachers Network will probably interest you, among others. Your farm sounds very special. I hope you'll share your activities, ideas and photos with us (in our Event section, by blogging and posting photos or otherwise) and find this a rich source of resources. For any questions about the network, see our FAQ page. Hope to see you here again soon.


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Find your product-market fit and soft land into new markets all over the world. Get access to relevant leaders in your industry. Participate in curated global matchmaking.
Go Global 2017 tending facts: 120+ startups went global in 10 of the world's major tech hubs.
«For me Startups.be's GoGlobal mission to Singapore was one of the most fruitful missions I've attended»
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Red Hat and Hyperic have formed an open-source project for developing a core set of IT infrastructure management capabilities, the companies announced Thursday.
Dubbed RHQ, the project's source code will be available under the GPL v2 license, according to a Red Hat spokeswoman. The companies have set up a Web site for the project at www.rhq-project.org.
The RHQ project's roots lie in the pact formed in 2005 between Hyperic and JBoss, which saw the latter company use code from Hyperic's Web infrastructure management product, Hyperic HQ, as a basis for JBoss Operations Network. Red Hat acquired JBoss in 2006, and Hyperic moved to an open-source model.
It shouldn't be long before a healthy community springs up around RHQ, according to Katrinka McCallum, vice president in Red Hat's management solutions business unit. "The fact Hyperic has an established name around open source is giving us a kick-start," she said, adding, "I don't think it will be that hard because a lot of customers have been asking us to open source our management assets."
RHQ will not provide a packaged management platform, per se. Instead, it will consist of a set of services such as for reporting, security and agents -- that could be built into various product offerings. The companies plan to bake the results into upcoming versions of their respective products, including JBoss Operations Network 2.0, which is set to ship later this year, according to a statement.
"We're really looking at saving some money when it comes to collaborating on the core platform," Doug MacEachern, Hyperic's chief technology officer, said of the partnership.
"I think there's going to be a lot of opportunities to upsell in both directions," he added. "JBoss might need coverage in other areas, whereas otherwise our customers might be looking to go deeper into the JBoss stack."
Red Hat's new CEO, Jim Whitehurst, recently spelled out an ambitious growth plan for the company. One observer suggested Hyperic and Red Hat may work even more closely together in the future.
"The most headliney thing is that it solidifies Hyperic's position as an acquisition target for Red Hat," said Michael Cote, an analyst with Redmonk. "This is all speculation on my part, but it adds up."
McCallum would not confirm or deny whether Red Hat is considering a purchase of Hyperic.


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This bhaaji does not contain Onion, Ginger or Garlic. Hence it remains good (and even smells good) for long time even in hot weather conditions and is the perfect picnic food!
3 big Potatoes, boiled
1-2 tsp Sugar (preferably powdered)
Salt to taste
2 strands of Curry leaves
1 tsp Mustard Seeds
½ tsp Turmeric
3-4 Green Chillies, chopped
4-5 strands of Corriander
2 tbsp Oil
How to proceed:
1) Dice the boiled potatoes
2) Sprinkle sugar and salt (as required) over the potatoes and mix well so that the potato cubes are coated with sugar and salt. Leave aside for 5 mins
3) Heat oil in a skillet. Add curry leaves and mustard seeds
4) When the mustard seeds start spluttering, add chopped chillies and turmeric powder
5) Now add the potatoes and mix well
6) Cover and cook for 5-10 mins. Keep stirring at intervals
7) Garnish with corriander and serve wth puris/chapattis


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Ticket to the Moon
Ticket to the Moon is a Flight through the music of Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra aka ELO
Members of the band have worked with and shared the stage with such legendary performers as Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Julio Iglesias Jr, Rock Of Ages, Jennifer Lopez, Foreigner, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Wyclef, Raul Di Blasio, il Volo, Romeo Santos, and Christian Castro.Trans Siberian Orchestra, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Earth Wind & Fire, Ricky Martin, Disturbed, Katharine McPhee, Sarah McLachlan, Rod Stewart, Detroit Symphony Civic Orchestra, Sinbad, Ron Thal (Guns & Roses/Sons of Anarchy), Marco Mendoza (Whitesnake/Thin Lizzy), and Guthrie Govan, Audra McDonald, Joey Tardif, Joel Denis, Pierre Lalonde, Michel Louvain, Michel Stax, Patrick Bourgeois
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Awesome article. I love going to see 2 bands. SLEJJ AND SOULICIDE.
Would love to be able to keep tabs on local bands and when they will be playing. It's so hard to find good local bands – so once one is found; it's nice to be able to follow and support.
Sound Of Vision plays every Thursday at Blue Jean Blues in Fort Lauderdale. 8:30 – 12:30.
Kilmo and Jimi Fiano Early Fri Happy Hour
Best website to find out about the local music scene
From an insiders perspective in the club buisiness, this is the go-to site for the best bands, bars, and entertainment in South Florida. Nothing even comes close. One stop info shop for party-goers!
Weekend Broward Rocks…! Best site around for finding what you need when it comes to the local music scene…
I have to agree…. clubs and bars can be profitable without a cover…. It is when I get charged $5 to see a horrible band that I end up walking out and going to another bar…. My tabs are typically close to 80/100 dollars so you will end up losing by force feeding a cover on me.
We do not charge a cover and never have. It is almost inpossible to survive and provide the quality of entertainment we have become known for.I am a music lover and feel I have a handle on what is good or mediocre. The people who come in that spend money are typically the ones offended and that is understandable. However the majority of the people do not spend a large amount of money. Many people just drink soda or water and there is no way to overcome that. It's a double edged sword. We are a local neighborhood bar and can't charge the prices of downtown or beach area venues. I feel that the call for a cover is dependent on the quality of entertainment you are providing. If the artists performing took a cut of the door in order to get paid the venues would be able to offer cheaper drink prices. Once the artists work for the door, a cover charge will become an acceptable practice. The bands that have a bigger draw will make more money than we are able to pay them . Right now its a crapshoot for us. We can only stay within our budget.
fair to ok to good…depending on the night…..never really great
COCONUT CREEK, Fla., – The Sixth Annual Blues, Brews and BBQ, held at the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek (SCCC), smashed all previous attendance records, with a sell-out crowd of more than 1,500 last Saturday, April 20. In addition, SCCC announced three days prior to the event that 100% of all ticket sales from April 15th-20th would benefit The One Fund Boston, and the general public responded. Proceeds from ticket sales, plus donations from Seminole Casino Coconut Creek and from festival attendees, came to a grand total of $17,239 that will go directly to victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy.
"This has been an unbelievable outpouring of generosity," said Steve Bonner, President of SCCC. "This has always been a popular event, but this year, well, it literally tripled in attendance. We are absolutely thrilled."
The event featured live music from Reverand Peyton's Big Damn Band, Albert Cummings, Bonerama with special guest Dave Malone of the Radiators, Tab Benoit and North Mississippi All-Stars. The tunes jammed from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. to roaring crowds of blues lovers from around the state.
More than 100 varieties of premium beer were available for sampling, and all guests received a complimentary mini-mug to take home. Another big hit was the BBQ itself, with six of South Florida's top BBQ icons participating in a BBQ cookoff, judged by a number of area radio personalities. The 1st Place Winner was Hickory Sticks BBQ, who received an award for $1,000; 2nd Place went to Lucille's Bad to the Bone BBQ, and 3rd place went to Sparky's Roadside BBQ. All three winners received trophies to display in their restaurants.
"This was definitely an evening to remember," said Bonner. "We already have big plans for next year's event to be even bigger and better!"
Hi Rob… thanks so much for researching events for Memorial Day. I missed the Pompano seafood festival because I didn't know about it until it was almost over.
[…] Edit August 13, 2009: Grand opening is August 23rd and 24th. Get more info at WeekendBroward.com. […]
Looking forward to the Grand Opening, the place is 100% improved, LOVE IT!
Fantastic read, and I enjoyed the pictures too! I love the fact that the local music scene is rockin! Keep up the great work!
Please note that the contact number for more info has changed. If you have any questions, or need more information, please call 954-868-7040!
Deb Amchir
I think Jessica Bingham is the BEST BARTENDER EVER! Her beautiful smile and way with customers is outstanding….GO Jessica, I vote for Jessica Bingham in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Great Article, and always a great reminder. Business run by profit. I'm proud of my band and fans, we always come hungry and thirsty !! I try to bring enough people that spend, so at least our band fee is covered an then some. I think venue's could also be a bit more creative and charge $5.00/person at the door, give you a ticket you can use to get your first drink…..everybody wins. People always appreciate and try harder for whatever reason when they have a personal investment into something, no matter how small. If all the bars did this, nobody would loose by patrons shopping for a free lunch so to speak, I mean really, do you want someone in your business just taking up space? Drinking your water, using your bathroom, and catching their buzz in the car with personal alcohol? I'm not siding with anyone (bars, Bands…) but lets face it, it's all about the business for both of us !!
Looking forward to the shows
Just wanted to mention that U2 by UV, The U2 concert experience will be outside of Murphy's Law at the Hard Rock Casino this year. Two shows from 6-7p and 10p-12a.
Check out The Mind Manifest blues/jamband rock from 4:30-6:00 Sunday on the community stage!
[…] To begin your search for the perfect room for your next special event, click here. […]
FYI – Name of venue is Unity 88 (address is correct)
Has a date been set for the 2015 Garlic Festival in Delray Beach. I would appreciate your response so I can plans to attend from Sarasota, Florida.
[…] City of Deerfield Beach: #1 on our list thanks to THREE stages of non-stop live entertainment at the beach starting at 12:30pm until the Fireworks show begins at 9pm. A trolley will be providing shuttle service from The Cove Shopping Center (1500 E. Hillsboro Blvd) and St. Ambrose Catholic Church (363 SE 12th Ave). The list of bands and entertainers is so long, we had to create a separate page just for this event! […]
[…] else can you expect to see such a blend of talent on one stage? Check out their WeekendBroward event page for more details including admission […]
[…] Greek Food is more your passion and you enjoy Greek Culture, you will find plenty of both at the Greek Festival in Fort Lauderdale, taking place from Friday to Sunday as well. I did not see any bands listed […]
[…] If you like the Eagles, don't miss the band that tours the world playing tribute to them at The 12th Annual Coconut Creek Butterfly Festival on February […]


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Perimeter Institute was pleased to host a visit by the world's science and technology leaders during a recent Carnegie Group meeting in Ontario, Canada. Carnegie meetings provide a confidential forum with open exchanges among chief science advisors and ministers responsible for research from G13 countries and the European Union on science-related issues.
Carnegie Group Science & Technology leaders with Dr. Howard Alper, Minister Gary Goodyear, PI Director Neil Turok and PI Scientists.
PI provided an on-site opportunity for Carnegie guests to gather and kick-off their discussions. The full range of dignitaries included science advisors and ministers responsible for research from G13 countries and the EU. The lead delegates and their accompanying officials were welcomed to Canada by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for Science and Technology, and by Dr. Howard Alper, Chair of Canada's Science, Technology and Innovation Council (STIC).
The opening remarks were followed by a presentation from Perimeter Institute Director Neil Turok on the importance of basic research in the broader science, technology and innovation ecosystem as well as his insights on PI's unique strengths and linkages throughout the world's research, training and outreach communities. The event also included a tour of Perimeter Institute's research facility and reception with PI researchers and senior administrative staff.
Carnegie Group meetings are held once a year and are hosted on a rotating basis among participating countries.


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September 22: Hello fall
September 22: Hello fall
Thanks for stopping by the Weather Watch 12 Blog. Fall started today at 3:44 PM, which means there are 272 days until summer 2014! Temperatures were almost 10 degrees below average today, with morning lows down into the mid and upper 30s in many areas.
The summer of 2013 was filled with extremes, but not much in the way of severe weather. Severe weather was reported only 10 days this summer. There weren't any tornadoes and most of the severe weather reports were marginal (60mph winds and hail up to 1" in diameter).
As far as the heat, the second half of the summer was much warmer than the first half. The highest temperature during the summer of 2013 was 95°, the lowest was reported this morning at 45°.
Precipitation is still above average for the year, in fact, we are over 5" above average. However, over the course of the summer our rainfall was about an inch below average.
For more weather information follow me on Twitter @ChrisGloninger


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LOS ANGELES (thefutoncritic.com) -- The latest development news, culled from recent wire reports:
Looking to keep track of all the various projects in development? Click here to visit our signature "Devwatch" section. There visitors can view our listings by network, genre, studio and even development stage (ordered to pilot, cast-contingent, script, etc.). It's updated every day!
Kyle Bornheimer is bound for A&E's "Those Who Kill" as "a married dad whom Chloe Sevigny's Pittsburgh homicide detective first meets at a Chuck E. Cheese-type restaurant" (TVGuide.com); Vanessa Bayer will guest on "The Mindy Project" as "a potential love for Chris Messina's newly single doc Danny" (TVLine.com); Katie Leclerc is set to drop by "Community" as "a pretty, sweet and hearing-impaired woman who's teaching Abed sign language" (TVLine.com); newcomer Brad Schmidt will visit "House of Lies" as "a handsome devout Christian with an arrogant swagger" (THR.com); and John Carroll Lynch will guest on FOX's "Us & Them" as the father of Ashlie Atkinson's Nessa (TVGuide.com).


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MILAN – The former CEO of the Italian defence giant Finmeccanica was freed Saturday from jail pending his trial on corruption charges next month.
Giuseppe Orsi, who was held for some 80 days in pre-trial detention, faces charges for his alleged involvement in the payment of bribes to secure a 560 million euro ($670 million) deal to sell 12 helicopters to India.
A speedy trial for Orsi, who was head of the Agusta helicopter division at the time of the deal, and his Agusta successor Bruno Spagnoli, opens June 19. Spagnoli, meanwhile, was released from house arrest Saturday.
Prosecutors allege that the kickbacks were part of the company's philosophy. India also is investigating the deal, and has put future deliveries on hold.
Orsi, who has denied any wrongdoing, was replaced as Finmeccanica CEO after his arrest. He left jail without speaking to reporters, but his lawyer issued a statement expressing confidence that the trial will show that Orsi was working to bring transparency to the state-controlled company.


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EDITORIAL: Obama's invisible Islam
Democrats refuse to admit who the jihadist enemy is
During questioning before the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday, a visibly nervous Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. tried valiantly not to utter the expression "radical Islam." The twisting began when Rep. Lamar Smith, Texas Republican, asked whether the men behind three recent terrorist incidents – the Fort Hood massacre, the Christmas Day bombing attempt and the Time Square bombing attempt – "might have been incited to take the actions that they did because of radical Islam."
Mr. Holder said there are a "variety of reasons" why people commit terror attacks. That can be true, but in these cases there was one reason: radical Islam. The attorney general said you have to look at each case individually. That's fine, but when that is done, one comes face to face with radical Islam every time. He said that of the variety of reasons people might commit terror, "some of them are potentially religious." Yes, like radical Islam. When pressed, what Mr. Holder would finally allow is, "I certainly think that it's possible that people who espouse a radical version of Islam have had an ability to have an impact on people like [Times Square bomber Faisal] Shahzad."
Mr. Holder mentioned Anwar al-Awlaki, the U.S.-born radical cleric now holed up in Yemen who has been mentioned in connection with all three attacks. Mr. Holder said that Mr. al-Awlaki "has a version of Islam that is not consistent with the teachings of [the faith]." Mr. Holder did not go into details to back up his assertion that Mr. al-Awlaki, an Islamic scholar, is somehow at odds with his own faith, nor did he pinpoint exactly what Muslim teachings he was referring to.
The Obama administration seems to have issued an internal gag order that forbids any official statements that might cast even the most extreme interpretations of the Islamic religion in a negative light. The "force protection review" of the Fort Hood massacre omitted any mention of shooter Nidal Malik Hasan's openly radical Islamic worldview or the fact that he made the jihadist war cry "Allahu Akbar!" before opening fire. Initially, the Obama administration refused to even call the massacre an act of terrorism, much less radical Islamic terrorism.
Last year, the Department of Homeland Security Domestic Extremist Lexicon, which was pulled out of circulation in the wake of controversy with other department publications, listed Jewish extremism and various forms of Christian extremism as threats but made no mention of any form of Muslim extremism. The Feb. 1, 2010 Quadrennial Homeland Security Review discusses terrorism and violent extremism but does not mention radical Islam as a motivator, or in any context. The 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review likewise avoids any terminology related to Islam.
The Obama administration may not like to think of being at war with radical Islam, but the jihadists are definitely at war with the United States. Rather than running from the expression "radical Islam," the administration should be openly discussing the ideological motives of the terrorists and finding ways to delegitimize them. Instead of hedging, obfuscating and ignoring, these Democrats should confront the challenge frankly, openly and honestly. Pretending that a radical, violent strain of Islam does not exist will not make it go away. To the contrary, it will make the situation much worse.
President Obama's continuing solicitude toward the faith of Muhammad is inexplicable, and as these acts of denial continue, it is becoming dangerous. The United States will not defeat an enemy it is afraid to identify.


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By Malcolm Berko
Dear Mr. Berko:
My money manager recently bought 400 shares of Blackboard, Inc. at $44.33. Please tell me what you know about the company and whether this is a good stock for me.
WW in Troy, Mich.
Dear WW:
Thank you for your lengthy letter, which I shortened by omitting the full spelling of your two-syllable family name.
I hope you understand that without having access to your personal goals, income statement and balance sheet, I can't even tell you if a CD would be a suitable investment.
But I can tell you that Blackboard, Inc. (BBBB-$46.01) is a clever sham designed for our school systems and paid for with our tax dollars.
Last year, BBBB generated $500 million in revenues providing web-based Course Delivery "Modules," Community Engagement "Modules," Content Management "Modules" and Outcomes Assessment "Modules."
Now, when students get frazzled, they enter the appropriate module, turn on the TV, microwave a pizza and chill out with a Coke or a joint. Expialidocious idea!
BBBB also offers "Blackboard Transact" for off-campus commerce management, online e-commerce and payment management, vending and laundry services, copy and print management, student and staff administration and video control surveillance.
Then there's "Blackboard Connect," which provides communications (voice, video, text and e-mail) systems.
And there's "Blackboard Mobile," which delivers campus life services to students, parents and faculty.
There's also "Blackboard Student Services," which provides student life-cycle management; "Blackboard Analytics," which provides platform data models, metrics and dashboards; and finally,"Blackboard Collaborate," which provides a platform for "synchronous learning."
BBBB offers all this hocus-pocus crap to our public schools, and the taxpayer offers all the money.
I can't imagine how I ever got through school without a BBBB application to butter my toast, wipe my ... um ... nose, select my courses or coordinate my social life.
Thanks to BBBB and a gleeful host of similar competitors slurping at the public purse, it's clear to me why our K-12 schools and colleges are so efficient and productive.
But gee whiz Willy Wonka, it seems that investors who have been buying the stock may be the same folks whose learning skills were molded by BBBB.
They believe this package of persiflage should trade in the high $50s and that earnings will zoom well over $2 next year.
And they are probably right as a trivet considering the moronism (not the teachers) of the administrators who run our schools.
So barring any political, social, financial or public relations missteps, BBBB's path to profitability is assured by the bureaucracy and naivete of the system in which it operates.
The company has a good balance sheet. Its 1.78 percent net profit margins are low, but that number will improve as BBBB continues to raise its prices each year.
Revenue growth, aided by acquisitions, should increase sales by 12 percent to 15 percent annually over the coming few years; however, organic growth may decline.
Meanwhile, other important operating margins will begin to improve as BBBB gains operating scale by selling multiple products to its fawning client base.
BBBB may head higher until the selected vested interests who promoted Blackboard's sophomoric applications become multiple millionaires.
Then BBBB will collapse when the public realizes it's been paying for an oinking herd of pigs in a poke.
But I applaud management's ability to hoodwink the educational system and convince fictile educators they're getting value.
Please address your financial questions to Malcolm Berko, P.O. Box 8303, Largo, FL 33775 or e-mail him at firstname.lastname@example.com. Visit Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
© 2011 Creators Syndicate Inc.


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Where the GOP presidential contenders stand on climate [UPDATED]
Photo: Jim Greenhill
Tim Pawlenty [UPDATED: NOT RUNNING]
Former governor of Minnesota
[UPDATE: Pawlenty announced on Aug. 14, 2011 that he was quitting the race for president.]
Pawlenty used to be a champion of moderate climate action, but he's changed his tune in the last couple of years. (We sense a theme.)
On climate science: In 2007, while announcing a new state climate commission, he said, "our global climate is warming, at least in part due to the energy sources we use."
But by 2010, Pawlenty was emphasizing uncertainty rather than warming. "The climate's obviously changing," he said on Meet the Press. "But the real question and the more interesting question is how much of that is manmade, how much of that is the result of natural causes and patterns? And, of course, we've seen a lot of data manipulation and a lot of controversy or at least debate within the scientific community."
On climate policy: In 2007, Pawlenty signed his state up for the Midwestern Greenhouse Gas Reduction Accord, a regional cap-and-trade system, and signed a bill requiring that 25 percent of Minnesota's electricity come from renewable sources by 2025. In 2008, he (unsuccessfully) pushed a climate initiative while he was chair of the National Governors Association, and gave a speech calling for climate action at the Pew Center on Global Climate Change.
"I support a reasonable cap-and-trade system," Pawlenty said in 2008, when he was gunning for the VP slot on McCain's ticket. "I think it'd be good for the federal government to take that up rather than have states take it up as clusters of regions."
But two years later, he changed his tune: "[W]e should all be in favor of reducing pollution. But we need to do that in ways that don't burden the economy. Cap-and-trade, I think, would be a disaster in that regard," he said on Meet the Press.
Pawlenty spokesperson Alex Conant explained the switch: "Gov. Pawlenty and many others considered cap-and-trade approaches, but concluded it's the wrong approach and doesn't support it. Over the last couple of years he has fought to stop the Democrats' cap-and-trade proposals because they're bureaucratic, clumsy and hurt the economy."
UPDATE, 2/15/11: At the CPAC conference in February 2011, Pawlenty walked back even further from his previous support for cap-and-trade: "Have I changed my position? Yes. But I'm not going to be cute about it, hem and haw, be dippy and dancy about it. Just saying yeah, it was a mistake, it was stupid. It was wrong."
UPDATE, 4/22/11: Mother Jones reports on how Pawlenty had worked closely with Arctic explorer Will Steger to raise awareness of climate change, but then abruptly stopped collaborating in 2008 when his national profile started to rise. Steger says he's "baffled" by Pawlenty's change of position on climate change.


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Julia Allison will be a syndicated columnist for the Tribune Company beginning March 1, reports Mixed Media. Her weekly column on social media and digital communications, called "Social Studies," will be published through Tribune Media Services, the syndication branch of the newspaper and TV company.
Allison's expertise in these topics is apparent to those familiar with Allison's career history–she used social media (and its founders) to build her enormous, if arbitrary-seeming, following, and dealt with cyberbullying as she tried and failed (and then succeeded!) to silence her rabid re-bloggers.
For those who haven't kept up with Allison since her Gawker heyday, she'd been running her lifecasting start-up "Non-Society," and moved to Chicago. She's dating Republican presidential candidate John McCain's son, Jack.
To The Observer's knowledge, this is Allison's first print gig since her dating column in Time Out New York.
firstname.lastname@example.com :: @kstoeffel


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The doghouse needs some custom figs, so count me in. What's the worst thing that could happen? Sounds fun. By the way, your first name isn't Victor, is it? (omg, a Fantastic Four reference? What will he do next? *ban him!*)
Ooops, sorry, got carried away there. I'll have something for this by May 20th (I hope).


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LBJ in the Oval Office During Vietnam
At this site, you can listen to secretly recorded conversations made by President Lyndon Baines Johnson in the White House Oval Office. These tapes were released in February 1997 by the LBJ Library in Austin, Texas.
No transcripts of these tapes have been created. We shall simply summarize the conversations and then point you to the audio link.
Johnson's Vietnam Anguish
May 27, 1964
Conversation with UN Ambassador Adlai Stevenson. LBJ seeks Stevenson's counsel on South Vietnam and Laos. Stevenson wants to meet Johnson face-to-face rather than discuss the situation on the telephone. Regarding Vietnam, said Stevenson: "It really gives me the shakes."
Conversation with national security advisor McGeorge Bundy. Bundy seeks permission to meet with Canadian officials as a means to transmit information to the North Vietnamese. Johnson goes on to express strong doubts about American involvement.
Conversation with Senator Richard Russell. Johnson sought the views of his mentor and friend regarding American involvement in Vietnam. Said Russell, then Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee: " We're in the quicksand up to our necks, and I just don't know what the hell to do about it."
Conversation with Press Secretary George Reedy. Johnson briefs Reedy about Dean Rusk's activities. They discuss the reasons for a teleprompter failure and a backup strategy should the teleprompter fail again. Johnson discusses race preferences in press office appointments.


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Oh my. What do we have here? Could it be a Weiner Dog Accent Lamp that compliments the coffee table perfectly? Could be! It looks like a dog, but it's really a lamp with a beautiful amber glow! It'll look perfect next to my Labrador Cigar Cutter.
Want to get your weiner on or know someone with a bunch of dachshunds? It'll set you back $50 and a slice of your pride.
Wiener Dog Accent Lamp [Ubergizmo]


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Since 1974, Donald R. Frey & Company,
Inc., has engineered the most innovative software in the United
States. Over 30 years of specializing in the needs of government
and private sectors in an industry where the average life
of a company is five years. Frey & Company experience
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Visit our products and demo sections to
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We do not use subcontractors or other third parties
for support. It is support to swear by, not at!


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150' 2-Wire 12-Volt 3-8" Purple Rope Light Spool
by Birddog
Sold out
$ 109.74
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12 Volt Rope Light for Low Voltage Systems Rope light gives you the ability to create custom accent lighting projects at home and can also be used in virtually any lighting application due to their flexibility and the fact that they can be cut to length in intervals of 4". Brilliant Brand rope lighting is rated for both indoor and outdoor applications. Rope light is an excellent product to use as cove lighting in hallways bedrooms or to bring a soft comfortable ambience to any room in the house. Use rope lighting to surround your eves gutters and windows during the holidays or wrap your trees and bring a beautiful accent to your deck or front porch. Create custom lighting effects with 2-Wire Rope Light Controllers. Add a dimmer fader or flashing controller to your rope lights to create distinctive lighting effects for your next project. Free Accessory Pack Included! Customize this 150' 3/8" Brilliant Brand Rope Light spool in countless ways with the included 62 piece accessory kit and enhance the visual appeal of your home or business. That s a $49.99 value free! Each Kit Includes: 3 Power Cords - 1 cord runs up to 150' 3 Power Connectors 3 End Caps 3 Inline Splices 50 Mounting Clips $49.99 Value! What are Rope Lights? Rope Lighting consists of small incandescent light bulbs encased within a PVC tubing. They are an ideal accent lighting solution because of their extreme flexibility and because of the fact that they can be cut in marked intervals. Rope Lights make creating custom accent light projects a breeze both indoors and outdoors. Can Rope Lights be cut to length? Rope Lights are one of the most versatile linear lighting solutions and can be cut spliced and connected at marked intervals. When one bulb goes out one entire section can be replaced instead of a whole spool. Are Rope Lights waterproof?: Although they cannot be submerged in water Rope Lights PVC casing allows for outdoor applications where rain and weather is present. Be sure to seal all of your connections with silicone sealant to improve the lifetime of your lights. Using rope lights outdoors without sealant will generally lead to decreased bulb life.
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Product Summary:
- 150' 2-Wire 12-Volt 3/8" Purple Rope Light Spool
- Rope Lights
- Incandescent Rope Lights


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The Matthews Community Farmers Market is dipping its toe into new waters with its latest vendor:
Starting Saturday, Tim Griner of the Charlotte Fish Company will sell fish sourced directly from the N.C. coast. Griner already sells to local chefs and will start bringing fresh fish to the market. This week, he expects to have grouper, black sea bass, red snapper, cobia and mahi mahi.
Adding Griner to the lineup was a big step for market manager Pauline Wood. The Matthews market is serious about its rule that vendors have to grow or make their food within 50 miles of Charlotte. And the coast isn't within 50 miles.
But Griner, she said, has the same values as the market's leaders, and she felt he would be a good seller to work with customers. She also felt that the demand for locally sourced fish was so high that it was worth making an exception.
Still, Wood is so careful about making the change that she had already altered the signature on her weekly newsletter when she sent it out Friday morning: "Everything is grown, raised or made within 50 miles of Matthews and sold by the farmer, baker or artisan who produced it, with the exception of fish, which must be landed on the North Carolina coast."
In other market news, Matthews also is adding freshly made Italian cheeses from Zack Gadberry of Uno All Volta. Get updates on the market and its fare here.
The Matthews Community Farmers Market is open 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays year-round and 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 5 at 188 N. Trade St. in Matthews.
Friday, July 25, 2014
Matthews market makes a big change
The Matthews Community Farmers Market is dipping its toe into new waters with its latest vendor:


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) --
(AAPL) - Get Report
CEO Tim Cook is the most powerful man in the technology industry. Yet, by many accounts, he's a regular guy.
Former CEO Steve Jobs was an icon and an innovator the likes the world has not seen since Albert Einstein, Henry Ford or Thomas Edison, with his ability to dazzle the world with his gadgets, and tell a story about them. He was difficult to work for, lashing out at employees if projects weren't done well or products that were not up to his standards. Legend has it Jobs fired people in the elevator.
It appears Cook is more approachable and freer with compliments than Jobs was. Here's
, a question-and-answer site, on what it's like to work with Tim Cook, Apple's CEO.
"I think on the whole I prefer Tim to Steve. While both mostly make their decisions on the basis of their intuition, Tim is less caustic about it -- he's certainly never dressed me down in the same way, and I've never been in a meeting with him where he's done this to anyone else on my team."
"He's also much better at acknowledging work well done, while Steve generally just assumed that good work was its own reward, Tim will take time to praise individuals that have performed over expectation."
"On the minus side, he starts way earlier than Steve did in the last few years, and when you're working on something critical, he expects that you do too. That means that when he sends you an email at 5 a.m. that demands a response, if it's not returned quickly, he lets it be known that he expects more."
Interested in more on Apple? See TheStreet Ratings' report card for
this stock
Written by Chris Ciaccia in New York
>Contact by
Follow @Commodity_Bull


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We have 25 vibrant designer outlets in nine countries including Italy, the UK, and the Netherlands, with even more to come! Each unique McArthurGlen centre is located within easy reach of a major city and is an established retail destination in its own right.Learn more


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Zimmerman helps Nats beat Marlins 6-1 for sweep
Now the Washington Nationals might get more of a test.
Right-hander Jordan Zimmermann worked around eight hits over six innings, Ryan Zimmerman's three hits included a two-run double and the Nationals beat the Miami Marlins 6-1 Thursday to wrap up a lopsided season-opening three-game sweep.
Jayson Werth padded the margin with a three-run homer in the seventh, a sign that his broken left wrist of last season is gaining strength. Bryce Harper had another eventful day, collecting two hits for the third consecutive game, taking an elbow to the face while scoring a run, and later getting thrown out trying to steal third with cleanup hitter Zimmerman at the plate.
Coming off a majors-best 98-win season in 2012, the Nationals outscored the payroll-slashing, talent-trading Marlins by a total of 11-1 in the series. At least Miami finally scored, ending a 19-inning run drought in the second Thursday on Justin Ruggiano's first-pitch homer to right off Zimmermann (1-0).
Washington opens a three-game series at the defending NL Central champion Cincinnati Reds on Friday.
Zimmermann followed sterling outings by Nationals starters Stephen Strasburg (seven scoreless innings Monday) and Gio Gonzalez (six scoreless innings Wednesday) by giving up only one run. But the Marlins got at least one runner on in every inning against Zimmermann, who nonetheless kept getting out of trouble.
Relievers Henry Rodriguez, Tyler Clippard and Craig Stammen finished up.
The St. Louis Cardinals began the 1943 season with 26 scoreless innings against Cincinnati, the post-1900 major league record, according to STATS LLC.
The Marlins have a payroll that's under $45 million this season after trading away several top players, including Jose Reyes and Hanley Ramirez. And yet this isn't exactly a new problem. Last season, they batted .244 - the worst average in franchise history - and scored 3.8 runs per game - their fewest since a 3.6 average in 1993, their expansion year.
Miami's pitching was solid this series, and Wade LeBlanc (0-1) limited Washington to three runs - two earned - and five hits in five innings. But Werth drove a 93 mph pitch from reliever Mike Dunn beyond the visiting bullpen in left to double the Nationals' output.
With the temperature in the 40s on a cloudy afternoon, LeBlanc gave up one-out singles to Werth and Harper ahead of Zimmerman's double off the wall in center in the first inning. Harper collided with catcher Rob Brantly while scoring and momentarily grabbed his chin but didn't appear seriously hurt.
In the third, Denard Span led off with a single and reached second on an error charged to LeBlanc. Harper then delivered an RBI single to make it 3-1, taking second on right fielder Giancarlo Stanton's error. Moments later, Brantly threw out Harper at third.
NOTES: During Washington-area MASN's TV coverage of the game, viewers were shown side-by-side video of the swings of Harper and a certain guy who went by the name Babe Ruth. ... RHP Chris Young agreed to a minor league contract with the Nationals, giving the team some added depth in case they need an extra starting pitcher during the season. Young originally signed a minor league deal with the Nationals in February and made four spring training starts before being released on March 26. He will report to the team's spring training site in Florida for some bullpen sessions before joining Triple-A Syracuse. ... The Marlins plan to put 1B Casey Kotchman on the 15-day DL on Friday with a strained left hamstring. Manager Mike Redmond says he'll have "a little bit of a tryout over at first base." Gregg Dobbs played there Thursday and juggled a grounder from Washington's first batter, Span, but gathered himself and stepped on the bag. ... The Marlins start a series at the Mets on Friday, with RHP Alex Sanabia starting for Miami, his first appearance in the majors since Sept. 24, 2011. ... RHP Dan Haren will make his Nationals debut Friday against the Reds after coming over as a free agent from the Angels.


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Restoring our audio artifacts
Grants give new life to historic Interlochen Center for the Arts recordings.
From the Archives with Byron Hanson: January/February 2017
Byron Hanson explores the history of Interlochen Arts Camp radio and television classes.
CODA: Kristine Huskey
From MTV to the Supreme Court and beyond: an updated profile on Interlochen Arts Academy alumna Kristine Huskey (IAA 82-85).
From Academy to Ailey: Fana Tesfagiorgis' journey
Interlochen warmed the young dancer's heart and launched her professional career in ballet.
Continued partnership and chamber performances
An ongoing partnership between the New York Philharmonic and Interlochen Center for the Arts culminated in a weeklong NYC residency and a Lincoln Center chamber concert.
Announcing summer 2017 conductors and Valade Concertmasters
Valade Concertmaster Fellows selected to work with World Youth Symphony Orchestra.
2017 U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts candidates
The National YoungArts Foundation has named four current Interlochen Arts Academy students as 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholar candidates.
A commitment to the Interlochen community—worldwide
Interlochen Center for the Arts is dedicated to the promotion of world friendship through the universal language of the arts.
Announcing the repertoire for Interlochen Arts Camp 2017
Repertoire has been set for all High School instrumental and several Intermediate and Junior ensembles.
Today in Music History: Mozart
Interlochen Center for the Arts celebrates the composer's birthday with a trip down memory lane.
Chamber concert classics: Poulenc and Shostakovich
Jan. 28 Lincoln Center performance to include classical composers among contemporary peers.
Understanding illness through art
Academy Visual Arts Instructor Megan Hildebrandt, inspired by her own diagnosis, builds the Aesthetics of Health class.
Announcing the 2017 Interlochen Arts Academy Concerto Winners
Final auditions judged by New York Philharmonic musicians who are all Interlochen alumni.
NY Phil Biennial performance featured on WQXR
The New Yorker critic Alex Ross picks Bound to the Bow as his obsession of the week.
Music that inspires composer Steven Snowden
A Spotify playlist curated by one of our contributing Interlochen Arts Academy chamber concert composers.
Shura Baryshnikov teaches the art of touch
In wake of The Sleeping Beauty, Academy dancers get a chance to explore contact improvisation.
Repertoire announced for Interlochen Arts Academy chamber concert at Lincoln Center
Program for Jan. 28 performance includes works by alumni.
Interlochen students, alumnus named semifinalists in Sphinx Competition
Finalists and winners will be decided during competitions from Feb. 8-12 in Detroit.
Board of Trustees member named TED Fellow
Stanford Thompson has been selected as one of the 15 members of the 2017 TED Fellows class.
Academy students take on faculty in pop quiz bowl
Surprise match at community meeting pits student team against faculty in a head-to-head battle of knowledge
Interlochen Arts Academy launches partnership with New York Philharmonic
The collaboration, set for January 2017, will culminate with a student chamber concert at the Lincoln Center.
The New Yorker recognizes Interlochen on year-end list
The New Yorker's Alex Ross includes the Interlochen Arts Academy 2016 NY Phil Biennial performance of Ashley Fure's (IAA 98-00) Bound to the Bow as a notable performance from the year.
International interns enhance language-learning experience
French and Spanish Amity Foundation interns bring language to life at Interlochen Arts Academy.
Interlochen at the 2017 Grammy Awards
Dec. 6, 2016 — Over a dozen Interlochen alumni are included among the nominees in the 59th Annual Grammy Awards.
From the Archives with Byron Hanson: November/December 2016
Byron Hanson explores some of the notable events that occurred in Interlochen's history in the month of December.


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Terms and Conditions
Multi Country– April 2016
"Applicable Stores"
PlayStation® Vita system store, PlayStation®3 system store, PlayStation®4 system store and the PlayStation®Store, excluding all other PlayStation® system stores and in-game commerce.
"Closing Date"
15 May 2016 at 23:59 (GMT)
"Entrant Countries"
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, India, Italy, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom
"Opening Date"
21 April 2016 at 00:01 (GMT)
"Voucher Item"
Voucher Code can be used to purchase a 14 month PlayStation®Plus subscription from the Applicable Stores for the price of a 12 month subscription. The subscription will automatically renew at the end of the subscription period for further 12 month periods at the current PlayStation®Store price.
"Voucher Code Expiry Date"
15 May 2016 at 23:59 (GMT)
1. This PlayStation®Plus offer ("Offer") is open to residents of the Entrant Countries who are aged 18 years or over and who are Sony Entertainment Network ("SEN") (previously known as PlayStation®Network ("PSN")) master account holders ("Eligible Persons").
2. This Offer opens on the Opening Date and closes on the Closing Date. The period from the Opening Date to and including the Closing Date shall be referred to as the "Promotional Period".
3. To take advantage of this Offer, Eligible Persons must:
a. have a SEN master account registered in an Entrant Country, and be opted-in to receiving email marketing messages;
b. receive an email, to the email address linked to their PSN ID, from the Promoter inviting them to take part of this Offer; and
c. perform the Steps during the Promotional Period.
4. For the avoidance of doubt any Steps performed before or after the Promotional Period shall not be included in this Offer.
5. Those Eligible Persons who have successfully performed the Steps pursuant to Clause 3 above, will receive a voucher code ("Voucher Code") which expires on the Voucher Code Expiry Date, for the Voucher Item.
6. Instructions on how to redeem the Voucher Code will be included in the Email.
7. Registration for PSN is subject to acceptance of the PSN Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
8. Voucher Codes are subject to terms and conditions of use: http://eu.playstation.com/terms/promotioncodes.
9. Voucher Codes are not transferable and may not be re-sold. Voucher Codes have an expiry date which will be communicated with the Voucher Code. No cash alternatives will be offered. Voucher Codes will not be replaced if lost, damaged or stolen or if sent to an invalid e-mail address provided by the Eligible Person.
10. PlayStation®Plus subscription only available to SEN account holders with access to PlayStation®Store and high-speed internet. PSN, PS Store and PS Plus subject to terms of use and country and language restrictions; PS Plus content and services vary by subscriber age. Users must be 7 years or older and users under 18 require parental consent, except that users in Germany must be 18 years or older. Service availability is not guaranteed. Online features of specific games may be withdrawn on reasonable notice - eu.playstation.com/gameservers. Credit/debit card details required. PS Plus subscription automatically renews at the end of the subscription period at the current PS Store price. Full terms apply: PSN Terms of Service at eu.playstation.com/legal.
11. Internet required. Eligible Persons are responsible for any internet access fees.
12. The Promoter reserves the right in its reasonable discretion to disqualify any person whose conduct is contrary to the spirit of these terms and conditions or the intention of the Offer.
13. The Promoter accepts no responsibility for failure of any Eligible Person to create or sign-in to their SEN account or to receive or redeem the Voucher Code, as result of any Eligible Person's or third party's network, hardware or software failure of any kind.
14. The Promoter reserves the right to alter or cancel this Offer or update and/or amend these terms and conditions at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion or in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
15. In the event of a dispute, the Promoter's decision is final and no correspondence or discussion will be entered into.
16. If there is any reason to believe that there has been a breach of these terms and conditions or incorrect, illegible, fraudulent or other invalid or improper information has been provided, the Promoter may in its sole discretion refuse to deliver any Voucher Code.
17. The "Promoter" is: Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe Limited, 10 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7LP, United Kingdom.
18. To the extent permitted by applicable law, these terms and conditions shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of England and the contract between each Entrant and the Promoter shall be deemed to have been formed and performed in England.


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Ringing in the New Year: Westin Resort, Cape Harbour celebrate start of 2014
As 2013 draws to a close, the public is invited to usher in the new year at two waterfront events. Both Cape Harbour and The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village are holding New Year's Eve celebrations, complete with fireworks at midnight and live entertainment throughout the evening.
The 8th Annual New Year's Eve Party will run from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Marina at Cape Harbour, while The Westin will first start seating for dinner at the New Year's Eve Celebration at 5 p.m.
The highlight of the Cape Harbour event is a 170-foot ball drop, including a countdown.
"Each year, we improve on it," event manager Glenda Swager said.
"We add more lights every year," she said. "It's starting to look like a disco ball."
This year, there are a total of approximately 10,000 lights on the ball.
Immediately following the drop, a fireworks show will take place for about 15 minutes.
"All of it happens at once," Swager said.
Last year, an estimated 3,000-plus people were in attendance.
"It's always been a terrific turnout," she said.
Revelers are welcome to come early and enjoy one of the Cape Harbour restaurants.
"All of our shops and restaurants are open," Swager said.
Pignoli on the Harbour will feature a special party and live entertainment from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
"You can sit dockside and watch the fireworks," she said.
Reservations are required and can be made at (239) 541-0800.
Waterfront dining is also available at Rumrunners, with open dinner seating from 5 to 10 p.m. However, reservations are recommended and can be made at (239) 542-0200.
Reservations are not required at The Joint, where Soapy Tuna will perform starting at 8 p.m.
"You may want to bring a folding chair," Swager said.
People can set up seating along the marina's north shore, where parking is also available.
"With the reflection in the marina, you're getting double the fireworks," she said.
A handicapped zone will be marked off, with signage to direct traffic.
Also that evening at Cape Harbour, the Banana Bay Tour Company will make its end-of-year sunset cruise. Guests of the two-hour cruise will meet dockside at Rumrunners one hour before sunset.
To reserve a spot on the cruise, call (239) 728-8687.
"Cape Harbour is such a beautiful beautiful area," Swager said.
"Come out for the evening and walk the promenade. You don't have to spend any money," she said. "We just want to really show people what's at that corner of Cape Coral."
There is no cost to attend the festivities at Cape Harbour.
The New Year's Eve Celebration at The Westin centers around a prix fixe dinner at Marker 92 Waterfront Bar and Bistro. Diners will have their choice of one salad, one entree and one dessert.
"It's a three-course meal," marketing manager Stefanie Eakin said.
Executive Chef Drew created the menu selections.
The first dinner seating from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. costs $60 per person.
The second seating, which runs from 9 to 11 p.m., costs $85 per person.
A champagne toast at midnight is included in the total price.
Dinner reservations are required at (239) 541-5600.
"There's still openings for both seatings, but it is getting pretty booked," she said Thursday.
Girl Meets Boy, the former Derek Trenholm Band, will perform outside from 8 p.m. to midnight.
"It's going to be a mixture of music," Eakin said.
Inside, a pianist will set the mood in the resort's lobby.
At the stroke of midnight, a fireworks show will take place for about 15 minutes.
"It's going to be a great event," she said. "The fireworks overlooking the water and having that setting and having the live music – it's really going to make the night."
Last year, an estimated 400 people attended the New Year's Eve celebration.
"We expect around the same this year," Eakin said.
"It was a great event, and everyone enjoyed themselves," she said.
For those skipping the dinner, the Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar and Grill will be open to the public.
"They don't need reservations for that," Eakin said of the outside bar. "It is a great view for the fireworks show."
She noted that attendees are welcome to make a reservation for the night at The Westin, so they can fully relax and enjoy the festivities and cocktails without worrying about getting home safely.
"It's the perfect place to ring in the new year with friends and family," Eakin said.
To book a reservation with the hotel, call (239) 541-5000.
The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village is at 5951 Silver King Blvd.
For more information on the New Year's Eve Celebration at The Westin's Marker 92 Waterfront Bar and Bistro, visit online at: www.marker92.com or call (239) 541-5600.
The Marina at Cape Harbour is at 5828 Cape Harbour Drive.
For more information on the 8th Annual New Year's Eve Party at the Marina at Cape Harbour, visit online at: www.capeharbour.com or call (239) 470-2746.


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As The Hartford sells off lines of business this year, CEO Liam E. McGee said Tuesday, company executives have worked to minimize job losses.
Hundreds of employees at the company — Connecticut's largest insurance employer — will at least have an opportunity to continue working in the region when The Hartford sells its retirement services to MassMutual later this year. The deal affects 1,300 workers, including 700 in Greater Hartford.
"I think MassMutual is going to offer jobs to virtually all of those employees," McGee said. "They're really interested in adding the small-, middle-sized retirement business to their portfolio, and it positions them really nicely to be a leader in that business. That's good for our employees. They can continue their career in the space that they love with a winner."
McGee sat down Tuesday with Courant reporters for the first time since The Hartford Financial Services Group announced on March 21 that it would sell off less-profitable lines of business — life insurance, annuities and retirement services — in order to focus on property-casualty, mutual funds and group benefits. The goal is to have a stronger, more profitable company that can use its capital to buy back shares, make acquisitions, and pay off debt rather than fill in losses from under-performing business units.
While The Hartford's executives make a leaner insurance company, however, some workers have wondered what will happen to their jobs.
It's apparent that many of The Hartford's displaced workers have — or will have — job offers that allow them to stay relatively close to home. It's not clear if those workers will still have jobs in the long term if, and when, companies that buy The Hartford's life insurance, retirement, annuity and brokerage businesses look to cut costs and become more efficient.
"My job is to get the best return on the businesses we're selling, but we were very focused on trying to be sure that the buyer, if possible, was a strategic buyer who really valued the capabilities they were getting and the employees they were getting," McGee said.
Since March, The Hartford has announced the sale of three parts: Woodbury Financial Services brokerage to American International Group for $115 million; Retirement Plans to MassMutual for $400 million; and aspects of its Individual Annuity business to Houston-based Forethought for an undisclosed price. The company also is working on a sale of its life insurance business.
MassMutual spokesman Mark Cybulski said it is too early to speculate about how The Hartford's retirement-services workers might blend with MassMutual's operations in Enfield and Springfield, and how many will be needed in the long term. During an acquisition, companies often look at "overlap," or jobs that could be eliminated for efficiency.
"When we close the transaction, The Hartford's retirement-plans employees are going to become part of MassMutual retirement services division," Cybulski said, noting that the acquisition is expected to close late this year. "So, they are going to become MassMutual employees, but what happens after that … it's premature to speculate beyond that."
Once the deal goes through, management from MassMutual and The Hartford Retirement Plans business will create a retirement services business "that builds on the best of both organizations," which will include "determining the optimal organizational structure," Cybulski said.
Individual Annuities
A much smaller line of business at The Hartford, the individual annuity business, escaped being shut down entirely.
In March, The Hartford initially said it would end new sales of its individual annuity business, meaning that there were no plans to continue the products and about 180 workers throughout the country might have lost their jobs.
However, The Hartford found a buyer — Houston-based Forethought, a financial services firm — for new individual-annuity products and related services. That means about 100 employees, including 40 in Connecticut, will get to keep their jobs and work for Forethought. Others left The Hartford before Forethought extended job offers.
"It would have been easy for us to just shut it down and sever the teammates," McGee said of The Hartford's Individual Annuity business. "We didn't do that. We worked really hard at finding a party that wanted to start this business. And I think, if you talk to those people that went to Forethought, they're pretty excited about being able to continue their career in the industry they love, which is the annuity business."
Latest Business
McGee added that Forethought wants to maintain a presence in Connecticut. In addition to the 40 employees that the business has in the state, 60 will remain with Forethought at offices in Greater Philadelphia and elsewhere in the country.
"Forethought really wants to keep all the people," he said. "They want to keep the people. So, they're going to keep them here. … Those that are in Connecticut are going to stay here. I think they've actually found space for them already in the Greater Hartford area."
The sale of Woodbury Financial, based in Oakdale, Minn., does not significantly affect Connecticut employment. Woodbury employs 200 people in home offices in Minnesota and is a broker-dealer of 1,400 independent representatives across the U.S. who sell life insurance and investment products, including those of The Hartford.
"Woodbury, basically, is going to be left to run as is," McGee said.


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