Epitaph: Man traveled country to broaden horizons

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329914958 17 Epitaph: Man traveled country to broaden horizons

Editor’s Note: Every life has a story. In this column,we pay tribute to people who have died recently.

Ernest Gobeille Jr. made almost every state in the union hishome, at least for one night.

The 76 year-old Queensbury man died Jan. 2 of cancer.

Upon his retirement, “Ernie” and wife Jan bought a fifth wheeltrailer, hitched it to a truck, and traveled the United States.Before they could actually record a state’s visit on their map,however, the couple had a special rule: They had to have campedthere.

Touring the U.S. was just part of Ernie’s retirement goal. Afterleaving Travelers Insurance Co., he set out to experience somethingdifferent every five years.

“His thought was, ‘You need to do new things, you need newideas; it stimulates your mind and it keeps you fresh,’” Jansaid.

And so, between 1995 until his health began to deteriorate a fewyears ago, Ernie took up motorcycling, trained two Australianshepherds as therapy dogs and crisscrossed the country severaltimes, staying in hundreds of campsites with Jan and dogs Minnieand Chili.

“Ernie wanted to always have things to do and meet so manydifferent people. You weren’t traveling in your bridge group oryour country club. You meet all kinds of people when you travel,”Jan said.

Ernie had always loved to drive, according to Jan, and when theyfirst met Ernie drove alone from Long Island to the Rocky Mountainsin a Pontiac Tempest. In those early years, however, his idea ofcamping hadn’t yet evolved to include comfortableaccommodations.

“He would have a cot and he would put a tarp on the top of thedoor so that when he shut the tarp into the car, the tarp drapedover his cot,” Jan recalled.

The first trip the couple took in Ernie’s retirement was toPaducah, Ky., so Jan could attend a quilt show.

They planned their trips around sightseeing adventures likeMystic Seaport in Connecticut, the mansions in Newport, R.I., or acivil war site in Mississippi. The couple saw the northern rim ofthe Grand Canyon in Arizona and Yellowstone National Park inWyoming.

Jan said seeing the country in the manner they did was unique,but because she liked to “stay put” for some of the time, Erniewould arrange for them to visit one southern state every spring forthree or four weeks at a time. He would meet up with a bicyclinggroup while Jan brought her sewing machine and worked on herquilts.

Ernie was still in good health when in 2010 the couple realizedthey hadn’t yet been to Oregon, California, Washington, Nevada andIdaho. Jan asked Ernie if completing the map was still on his”bucket list,” and they finished up their journey from August toOctober.

Through the 15 years on the road, they also took caravan toursto Canada and Mexico and camped in Alaska. Ernie and Jan actuallyvisited all 50 states but the visit to Hawaii wasn’t officiallyrecorded on their map.

“We didn’t camp there,” Jan said.

Features writer Meg Hagerty may be reached or 742-3208.

Day Cruise in Alleppey Backwaters

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329913757 89 Day Cruise in Alleppey Backwaters

The backwaters is the rather unappealing name given to the picturesque network of lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals that run inland from the coast of Kerala, from Cochin to Kollam .A backwater cruise gives a mind-blowing view of canal systems and endless lagoons , Paddy fields, fishing in backwaters, small houses on small stretch of land There are villages in all over these backwater, The view of backwater birds, people working in paddy fields or people using small canoes as mode of transportation, small resorts, heritage homes are specialty of this area. The lush green palm-fringed landscape, diverse wildlife, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world of natural beauty which is still untouched by humans.

The best option to view and experience backwaters is by staying overnight in a houseboat through one of the Kerala Houseboat packages. Most people go for overnight hire of a houseboat , which includes a serene sleep out in the middle of nowhere, in a lake or other similarly peaceful spot. . However if you are on a limited budget you can always opt for a houseboat day cruise in backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom which will also be a truly memorable experience.

A Day Cruise backwater Package in Alleppey or Kumarakom will start at 11 AM and will go on till 5 PM with a 1 hour break for lunch. The package for a day cruise in backwaters may cost around Rs.5000 for 2 people including lunch , tea and snacks in the evening. .Depending upon the facilities of the boat t and the level of service the rates may increase or decrease or may slightly vary. If you are coming in as a group it is always better to opt for a day cruise package as you will be able to experience the backwaters in a limited budget.You can also check out the multiple options for Kerala Houseboat Packages covering Alleppey, Kumarakom and Kollam helping guests to experience backwaters of Kerala and village life in its various hues and forms.

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Fun Maternity Swimsuits During Your Pregnancy

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329910172 47 Fun Maternity Swimsuits During Your Pregnancy

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Hotels near Machu Picchu

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329908957 12 Hotels near Machu Picchu

When planning to visit Machu Picchu , first you need to get to Cusco , which is the gateway into the Inca historical site. If you plan to take the Inca Trail, you’ll leave from Cusco (after getting used to the high altitude for 3 to 7 days). Another option is to stay in Aguas Calientes , which is the city with where the trains from Cusco stop and from where you can either take a bus or hike to Machu Picchu. There is also the possibility to stay in Machu Picchu Town, but the prices are typically higher than if you were to stay further away.

>>book a cheap hotel in Cusco or look for cheap hostels in Cusco

Should you decide to stay in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Town, here are some good options for hotels near Machu Picchu:

Hostal Varayoc

The hostel is located less than 100 m from the railway station in downtown Aguas Calientes. All rooms have private bathrooms, TV and there is free internet access available. Laundry service is available. The Continental breakfast is included in the room price. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$35 per night in a double or twin room.

Terrazas Del Inca Bed And Breakfast

This hotel is located in downtown Machu Picchu, surrounded by the mountains. It is just 30 min bus drive from the Inca site and has lovely views of the river. The hot springs are just 5 min walk away and the waterfalls are within 45 min hike. All rooms have en suite bathrooms and TV. The on site restaurant offers panoramic views of the area. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$55 per night in a double room, breakfast included.

Machu Picchu Green Nature

The hostel offers free airport pick-up and free breakfast. All rooms have private bathrooms and some have mountain view. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$58 per night in a budget double room with mountain view.

Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel

The 5 star hotel is located just 20 min from Machu Picchu and offers luxurious rooms with cable TV. There are a restaurant and a bar on site. And the guests can relax at the spa. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$548 per night in a superior double or twin room, breakfast included.

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

It offers direct views of the Huayna Picchu Mountain. The 5-star hotel also offers free wi-fi and iPod docking stations. Trips to the site can be arranged at the hotel. All rooms have cable TV and private bathrooms. The on site restaurant offers panoramic views of the jungle. In May 2012, expect to pay from US$925 per night in a standard double or twin room, full board.

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Kullu Manali Holiday Packages

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329906562 83 Kullu Manali Holiday Packages

Manali is a travel spot in Himachal Pradesh and one of the most visited holiday destination for hill station tour packages. Kullu and Manali, crafted along with beautiful places give a fascinating view for holiday makers and around the world widely known for the excellent nature’s prosperous beauty. Thousand of newly married couples make their honeymoon in Manali. Manali Honeymoon Packages offers much better opportunity to the newly-weds on their honeymoon with all the wonderful sight seeing opportunities where they are able to talk about their love freely to make it alive forever. Kullu Manali Honeymoon Package is among the most romantic honeymoon package in India.Kullu Manali Holiday Packages provides you the best attraction as well as gives the chance for several adventurous activities such as skiing, hiking, rafting, trekking, paragliding and mountaineering which will make your journey more delight and adventurous. Along with beautiful attractions Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. With the highest concentration of Tibetan refugees in the entire Kullu valley, it is widely famous for its Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, which is built in 1969. The monastery is maintained by donations from the local community and through the sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop.Kullu Manali Holiday Packages are typically a hot travel and tour package for those tourists who choose to engage on their own in adventure and sporting activities instead of sightseeing and tours. Trekking, Para gliding, river rafting, mountaineering, rock climbing, biking, skiing, water sports, etc are one of popular excitement sports activities in Kullu Manali tours. In actual fact, the entire area of Kullu Manali is gifted by god with excellent beauty and wonderful tourist attractions, which make it probably the most gorgeous and prime location of India. Definitely, your holiday journey to Kullu Manali will be unforgettable travel experience.If we talking about the Manali Holiday Packages then we can’t forget about Rohtang Pass which is 20 km away from Manali and very famous place in the name of mini Switzerland, where you can get the snow fall experience. You can also view the large number of temples in Manali, which includes Hidimbi Devi Temple, Vashist Spring, Historic Ragunathji temple, Basheshwar Mahadev Temple under the list of Kullu Manali Holiday Packages. So, don’t wait more and choose one of the Holiday Packages of Kullu Manali and enjoy the beauty of Manali, which is unforgettable in your life.

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Premier roasts claims new public holidays will force restaurants to close

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329905361 17 Premier roasts claims new public holidays will force restaurants to close

PREMIER Jay Weatherill has shot down claims by restaurant and cafe owners that they will have no choice but to close on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve if new half-day public holidays are introduced.

Mr Weatherill was responding to warnings by members of Restaurant and Catering SA that they will be forced to close if those days are declared public holidays from 5pm to midnight, as part of proposed changes to the Holidays Act.The change would require employers to pay staff penalty rates of 250 per cent during those hours, which many businesses say would make it too expensive to trade on those nights.Concerned business included popular metropolitan restaurants, such as Lenzerhide and Windy Point Restaurant, and also regional operators such as Banrock Station winery.But Mr Weatherill argued such venues traded "profitably" on existing public holidays and "no sensible argument" had been made for why the new half-day holidays would be any different. "It’s pretty hard to swallow the argument that late at night on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve people are flocking to cellar-door wine tasting," Mr Weatherill said."Similarly, if people are spending hundreds of dollars on high-end dining or accommodation, it is a bit rough to suggest that they would miss a few extra dollars to compensate those people who are working so that they can have a good time."Restaurant and Catering SA chief executive officer Sally Neville told FiveAA Radio this morning many restaurants already close on public holidays.She warned the proposed new half-day holidays would "create an absolute black spot" in hospitality services "from Port Lincoln down to Mount Gambier and everywhere in between". 

Three Designers, Three Milan Hotels

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329902968 39 Three Designers, Three Milan Hotels

IN Italy, where fashion designers are modern Medicis, nightclubs are named after Roberto Cavalli; restaurants designed by Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana; museums dedicated to Gucci and Ferragamo; and theaters — used only a few days a year for their runway shows — built by Gucci, Armani, Prada and Versace.

Despite the country’s economic woes, its designers are in a mode of Renaissance-like expansion, and nowhere is this on finer display than in their latest fixation: hotels. Modeled after the images of their designers and popping up in cities around the world, recent entries include a Hotel Missoni in Edinburgh, where the bedspreads are printed with vivid stripes, and a much-fussed-over Armani Hotel that opened this winter in Milan, in a modern glass-walled structure erected atop an austere building from the 1930s. These join established designer-innkeepers like Versace, Bulgari and Ferragamo.

For fashion lovers, such hotels offer the opportunity to submit fully to the designers’ visions — not only to wear the clothes, but also to live, at least for one night, with their beds, sheets and bathrobes, just as Giorgio or Donatella intended. This is what you are buying anyway: the chance to dream in their worlds, literally.

During a recent Fashion Week in Milan, I set out to see how the experience of checking in with a designer compares with that of shopping in their stores. One similarity was obvious from the start: The hotels are expensive. (The rates tend to be higher during peak periods.) Booking the least expensive rooms through Expedia in mid-January, I wound up paying $861.17 a night at the Armani; $746.75 at the Bulgari Hotel; and an average of $342.09 at the comparatively budget-friendly Maison Moschino, another designer hotel in Milan that opened in 2010.

When the cab pulled up to the Armani Hotel, on the edge of the central fashion district, I began to feel that uncomfortable sensation of being sized up by a salesperson trying to determine my credit score. The building, which takes up an entire block, contains within its bone-white Fascist-era walls what could be described as an Armani shopping mall, with a bookstore, a chocolate shop and a branch of Nobu, along with a range of Mr. Armani’s clothing collections. It is not a friendly looking facade, but it is beautiful in its stark blacks and whites punctuated by curtains of live bamboo. The hotel occupies the upper floors, with a gym, a spa and a small pool on the top floor overlooking the city.

An enthusiastic woman in a pantsuit dashed out of a side entrance and introduced herself as a “lifestyle manager,” a term I fear the Armani employees use rather loosely, since the services she offered, as she escorted me to the reception on the seventh floor, sounded more in line with a concierge than a therapist. When the doors opened, I reconsidered. On a bright January morning, the view through the floor-to-ceiling windows of sunlight tickling the spires of the Duomo was reflected in the polished white marble floor, brighter than the gates of heaven. Perhaps I needed the help of a “lifestyle manager,” or maybe of St. Peter, if I were ever going to fit in. The design throughout is a marvelously detailed expression of Mr. Armani’s aesthetic (clean, tasteful, textural, expensive) as forward looking as the future once seemed in “Gattaca.” Very few plebian artifacts like door handles or light switches are permitted in the land of Armani, where the curtains, the climate and even the “do not disturb” button are operated by a motion-sensitive remote control and the rooms are accessed by swiping a card key across a monitor more sensitive than a retinal scan. When it changes color, you push the door open. Closing it from the outside, however, requires a fairly acrobatic pull.

The large rooms are outfitted with sleek furniture from the designer’s Armani Casa home collection in a masculine palette of grays and beiges; the comforters, with a matte finish that to the touch feels like freshly mown grass, are fitted precisely to the bed on all sides. The rooms are full of small and wondrous surprises: a coffee machine with Armani espresso blends; a walk-in closet; a pillow menu; a flat-screen television that pops up from a console at the foot of the bed; toiletries that smell of frankincense (a prime element of Mr. Armani’s fragrances); bathrooms with separate cabins dividing the rain shower from the toilet from the tub; and towels that give the sensation of diving into a pile of white bunnies. Better than all this, the Q-Tips. Mr. Armani’s are six inches long, with black stems, making for incredibly chic aural hygiene.

Alas, jet lag and disillusionment collided with a strong sense of buyer’s remorse at 3 a.m. That was when I noticed the illuminated control panels on each side of the bed, and a third by the closet, which included a master switch that could turn off every light in the room, save for that of the control panel itself. Since I was in a state of semiconsciousness, the thought of calling my lifestyle manager did not occur.

The hotel is aware of the problem, I was told that morning upon checkout, but the issue seems to be finding a solution that fits within Mr. Armani’s rigorous aesthetic. Might I suggest duct tape? It comes in black.

Armani Hotel Milano, Via Manzoni 31; (39-02) 8883-8381; milan.armanihotels.com.

The Maison Moschino became my base of operation for four days of fashion shows, not because I am partial to the house’s eccentric and playful designs, but because it was the least expensive. (Moschino is a younger-skewing label with a diffusion sub-brand called Cheap and Chic, so you can imagine the crowd.) It is in a former railway house near 10 Corso Como, the city’s premium designer emporium, but close to little else. Its exterior, with a broad outdoor patio, resembles Miami Beach in its heyday. The lobby is small, white and efficient, but charmingly decorated with paper lanterns in the shapes of animals (chickens, French poodles, sheep) floating from the ceiling like clouds.

There are several different room designs throughout the hotel, including a tribute to the Mad Hatter and a suite with a wall of painted shoe boxes, but the least expensive, and most basic, is called “sleeping in a ballgown.” The headboard looks like the bodice of a red velvet gown on a hanger, the “skirt” of which flows down to become the comforter.

Franco Moschino, the late founder of the design house, was known for his wit (he once designed a send-up of a Chanel suit with the words “This is a Waist of Money” embroidered at the waist, and affixed real cutlery to a dinner jacket). The twisted humor of the Moschino brand lives on here, which means at times the experience can feel like going to a Gallagher show without knowing to avoid the front rows.

My room, so compact it had no desk or dresser or even closet beyond the wall-mounted rack (a problem if you are a business traveler), reeked so strongly of lilies and artificial roses that I inquired if housekeeping could please refrain from spritzing whatever it was. When I returned to the room, I discovered a large aerosol can of the offending Neutrajet air freshener and a note that said, “This is a gift for you!” Not my size.

The Maison Moschino; Viale Monte Grappa 12; (39-02) 2900-9858; maisonmoschino.com.

For real luxury, until Armani’s arrival, the Bulgari, which opened in 2004 in partnership with the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, held bragging rights among Milanese hotels for its jewel-like setting next to a centuries-old botanical garden. As a treat, I spent my last night in Milan there.

The Zen-like room was so large you could walk in a circle from the foyer to the bedroom to the bath to the toilet back to the foyer, and I was delighted to live out a Bulgari fantasy that has been tormenting me ever since Sharon Stone, in 1994, said that she practically bathed in the company’s signature Thé Vert fragrance, which does smell a little like green tea. Next to the tub (“black Zimbabwe marble complemented with soft Navona travertine,” per the room guide) were Bulgari-scented bath gels, soaps, three small scented candles and, I discovered upon returning to the room that evening, a sealed thermos of actual green tea. Try that, Ms. Stone, and you’ll never want to get out of the tub.

Unlike her, however, the Bulgari is starting to show its age. The floors are getting a little creaky and the ornamental vases outside each room, filled with what appeared to be large cinnamon sticks, were covered with a layer of dust. In the peaceful lobby, glass bell jars filled with old-fashioned candies, which guests can raid at their leisure, are a nice touch, but it struck me as funny to find a jar of candy, as well, in the small gym downstairs.

At the Armani gym, there is a perfect display of bottled water, green apples and a variety of nuts. But at the Bulgari, I had no trouble sleeping.

The Bulgari; Via Privata Fratelli Gabba 7b; (39-02)805-8051; bulgarihotels.com.

First published on February 19, 2012 at 12:00 am

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Sands Films seeks saviour in financial stars

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329901759 70 Sands Films seeks saviour in financial stars

But you don’t have to be a wealthy luvvie – with Stockman selling shares in the private firm for as little as £500, everyone from jobbing actors to media teachers and hairdressers have invested too.

In what sounds like a plot from one of the hundreds of films Sands Films has worked on, the French entrepreneur wants people power to rescue the company from being turfed out of the Grade II-listed former granary it has occupied since 1975.

While the core business is relatively healthy – sales are growing slowly but steadily and its margin before rent is around 23pc – Stockman says Sands Films has been haunted by the prospect of a lingering death in recent years as the annual rent on its 23,000 sq ft premises in Rotherhithe, south-east London, has spiralled.

The bill has risen from £75,000 in 2000 to £285,000, before maintenance and insurance, last year. Against a turnover that breached £1m for the first time in 2011, the rent hikes have been eroding the company’s profit margins.

“I ended up running the business to pay the rent. And then the rent got worse. At that level, it made no commercial sense,” says Stockman.

“High rents are killing businesses, it’s not just us. That’s probably why companies say, ‘sod it, let’s move to Croydon or Basildon’.”

Although Sands Films has produced films such as Little Dorrit, it is best known in its industry for making and renting costumes for period dramas such as Pride & Prejudice. More recently, it’s been busy producing outfits for Steven Spielberg’s forthcoming Abraham Lincoln biopic and New York’s Metropolitan Opera.

With clients like those, can’t the company simply move, safe in the knowledge its reputation should help it to keep winning work?

“If you moved the Ivy to Camden, with the same chefs and the same menu, it would still lose its identity. If we moved our business we’d die. The premises are too unique. We also don’t want someone to turn it into luxury flats – it’s meant to be a work space.” The final straw for Stockman came when his most recent landlord, an asset management firm, imposed a retrospective rent charge for a floor that no longer exists.

When founders Christine and Richard Goodwin took the property on in the 1970s, it was a shell they agreed to renovate in lieu of rent.

“The building was derelict. The roof had fallen in and people went from one floor to the other using ladders.”

The Goodwins didn’t reinstall a second, raised floor in the area which Sands now uses as a stage. Two years ago, the landlord backdated rent on what had been a 2,700 sq ft floor on the basis that the company should have restored it as part of the original deal.

“It flew in the face of any common sense – no one had seen the floor for 50 years. A business can’t cater for a floor it’s never seen and can’t use.” The courts didn’t agree – the 52 year-old lost a legal challenge and, faced with an additional six-figure bill, placed the company in administration to rid itself of the liability.

He then bought the assets back and agreed an above market rate with the landlord, who was poised to redevelop the site, of £2.8m to buy the building.

Looking for ways to fund the acquisition, Stockman stumbled across the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS), a Government initiative which offers generous tax breaks to investors willing to back small firms.

His relative financial inexperience led to an unusual interpretation of the scheme – it is almost always used by wealthy “angel” backers rather than retail investors.

“I just looked at the rules on the HM Revenue & Customs website, saw that £500 was the minimum investment and decided I wanted lots of small shareholders.

“It feels like a new beginning – a community of supporters who like what we do and encourage us to do more. I doubt I would get that feeling from City investors. I would be feeling frightened or apprehensive.”

But does it make financial sense for the retail investor?

EIS reliefs are among the most generous offered by the taxman, and there’s a reason – they’re meant to be targeted on inherently risky investments.

Stockman acknowledges the risk, and says it’s another reason to ask for lots of small amounts of money. “At £500, we’re not putting people’s savings and livelihoods at risk. The guilt of losing people’s money would be horrendous.”

In any case, since the investment is indirectly in the property, he insists that “unless there’s World War Three, it’s quite secure”.

As well as the 30pc income tax relief and smaller capital gains and income tax breaks that EIS offers, Stockman believes he’ll be able to offer a steady annual dividend of up to 10pc.

While the costume business is running at capacity, the potential to grow the film services side of the business – studio, rehearsal and office space, as well as screening facilities and catering – could quadruple its 2011 revenues of £1.1m within five years, he says.

“At the moment, we use our stage one day in five. While we were tenants, we felt little reason to

invest in marketing or advertising because we had no security of tenure. Now I can take bookings for next August.”

With a £1.1m mortgage secured, Stockman wants to raise just under £2m through the EIS scheme. So far, the company has raised half that amount from 200 investors.

How confident is he feeling of finding the rest by his deadline at the end of March ? “In the mornings I’m confident, in the lunchtime I have doubts and by the night-time I can’t sleep.”

With the deal due to go through in April, a costly alternative would be a bridging loan and a larger mortgage to supplement the equity investors.

“My core motivation is love for films. That’s why all of this has to exist. We can’t afford to say, ‘oh damn it, we can’t do it’. We have to complete.”

Royal Caribbean Cruises From New Orleans

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329900558 64 Royal Caribbean Cruises From New Orleans

Royal Caribbean cruises from New Orleans are more popular than ever. Based out of New Orleans is a 3114 passenger cruise ship, Voyager of the Seas. It is one of the largest cruise ships to be docked out of the city of New Orleans. You can enjoy Voyager of the Seas and other Royal Caribbean Cruise ships. Just a while ago things were not looking so good for cruise line in the city.

Royal Caribbean pulled its ships out of the city after Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. The cruise line has returned to New Orleans since 2006, pulled out again in 2007, and has recently made another return. Voyager of the Seas, which is one of the lines largest ships, was docked in Galveston Texas for a while, but they are receiving a new ship, which will be called Mariner of the Seas and it will hold 3114 passengers also.

There are other popular cruise line’s docked in New Orleans, such as Carnival and Norwegian Cruise lines. Carnival currently has two ships based in New Orleans that hold just under 3000 passengers each. Norwegian Cruise Lines has a single ship that carries less than 2000 passengers. Royal Caribbean will have the only ship that offers more than 3000 passenger capacity.

Royal Caribbean ships based in New Orleans was not an easy thing to handle at first

When Royal Caribbean returned to New Orleans years ago, the start wasn’t a good one. The city had created a newly renovated cruise ship terminal, and it was quite difficult to keep up with the bustling crowds that were constantly coming and going.

Reports from the city stated that because of the bustling crowds at the terminal long traffic resulted all across the city. Lines were said to be too long, check in computer meltdowns were a problem along with very slow security checkpoints.  So, initially New Orleans wasn’t an ideal location to start what was supposed to be a very relaxing vacation.

Royal Caribbean Cruise line set to offer cruises through 2012

Currently you can enjoy Royal Caribbean cruises from New Orleans at least through 2012. Voyager of the Seas is set up to be stationed in New Orleans all the way through April of 2012. The ship offers a seven night Western Caribbean package that includes different ports such as Falmouth, Jamaica, Cozumel, Mexico and George Town along with the Grand Cayman.  These are great Caribbean cruises for relaxing, shopping, and sightseeing.

If you are interested in taking a Royal Caribbean cruise from New Orleans, a good idea would be to make a reservation well in advance. Reservations in advance are the best way to secure the best packages.

Also, seeing as how there’s no guarantee that Royal Caribbean Cruise line will continue offering cruises here for a long time, packages are being swept up very quickly. If you hold out too long it may be too late, or reserving a cruise through New Orleans on the line may be particularly more expensive. So don’t delay and give Royal Caribbean cruises from New Orleans a try.

Upcoming Events and Entertainment 2-4

Posted by on February 22, 2012 No comments

1329898170 72 Upcoming Events and Entertainment 2 4

All area codes are 850 unless specified.

 

Walton County Coastal Branch Library will offer free coupon classes with Julie Kline of Coupon for Dummies from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 11 in the community room of the library. No registration is required. Call 267-2809.

The Destin United Methodist Women will host its Ninth Annual Chocolat’ Fare from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 11 in the Atrium Room at the church. A variety of chocolate items for sale include cakes, pies, cookies, candy and more — all homemade. The group’s handmade jewelry will also be on sale.

Mike Kay, saltwater fish expert, will present a program on aquaculture and its influence on the conservation of coral reefs, at 11 a.m. Feb. 11 at the E.O. Wison Biophilia Center in Freeport. Standard admission rates apply. Call 835-1824.

Florida Trail Association

• Feb. 11: Eight-mile hike at 8 a.m. on Eglin near Crestview.  Eglin recreation permit required.  Call 683-0803.

  1. Call 492-8258 or 865-7075.

• Feb. 25: Annual awards banquet at 11:45 a.m. at Bear Lake in Santa Rosa County.  Call 654-1172.

• Feb. 28: Monthly meeting at 6 p.m. at Ed’s Hometown Seafood & Steaks in Niceville. Call 654-1172.

SunQuest Cruises will host Valentine’s dinner cruises from 5:15 p.m.-9 p.m. Feb. 11 and 6:15-10 p.m. Feb. 14 aboard the Solaris. Cost is $150/couple and includes a 3-course meal, cruise and live entertainment. A full service bar and appetizers are available for purchase onboard. Casual cocktail dress, suit not required. Seating is limited. Make reservations at SunQuestCruises.com or call 650-2519.

Geana’s Art Gallery & Custom Framing, at City Market east of Bass Pro Shops on U.S. 98 in Destin, will host a date night, Hearts and Art, from 6-9 p.m. Feb. 14. Spend the evening with your loved one and paint a canvas together and share wine and refreshments. Reservations required at 650-0779. Cost is $50/person and includes supplies.

The Walton County Health Department and the University of Florida IFAS Extension are working together to offer interactive and tasty cooking demonstration classes from 6-7 p.m. at the Walton County Extension office, 732 N.9th St. in DeFuniak Springs.  The cost is $5 per class or $20 for the series. Pre-registration required at 892-8172.

• Feb. 14: Sizzling Stir Fry

• March 13: Super-Packed Salads

• April 10: Quick and Easy Casserole

• May 8: Mexican Fiesta

• June 12: Perfect Pizza Party

Walton County Coastal Branch Library will host published author Budh-Aditya Roy for a book signing from 9-11 a.m. Feb. 15.  He will be available for an open discussion session with titles of his books on hand. His latest is “A Bend in the River of Life”. Call 267-2809.

Mattie Kelly Arts Center

The 2011-12 season at Mattie Kelly Arts Center at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville includes the following. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Call 729-6000 or visit the Box Office between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday for ticket information.

• Feb. 15; Brigadoon

• Feb. 24: Monty Python’s Spamalot

• March 10: Andy Gross

• May 10: Mel Brooks musical Young Frankenstein.

The John Horton Senior Center, 194 County Hwy. 393, will offer Tai Chi exercise classes taught by an instructor for Seniors at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 15, 22 and 29. Tai Chi is designed for seniors regardless of physical capabilities. Senior Center hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 622-0917.

Walton County Coastal Library Winter “Prime Time Programs” will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesdays until March 7. Call 267-2809.

• Feb. 15: ACT4 Murder presents “The Mystery of ACT4 Murder: 10 Years and Counting of Killer Success!”

• Feb. 22: Attorney J. Mark Fisher

• Feb. 29: Novelist, Barbara Nowell

 • March 7: Margaret Rogers, weaver

Duncan Baird and Cetin Oguz, two Cleveland, Miss.-based artists bring a decidedly contemporary two-man show to the McIlroy Gallery at Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville through Feb. 17.

In the Holzhauer Gallery, Elizabeth Austin will display her cassetinas, Italian for “little boxes.” These small-scale works, some of which display Austin’s signature style of reverse painting evoke magical, otherworldly scenes, and have often been compared to jewel boxes or reliquaries.

Classical Connections

Presented by Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Rosemary Beach Foundation and The Merchants of Rosemary, Classical Connections features Grammy Award winning Parker Quartet at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 and 18 at the Rosemary Beach Town Hall. Tickets are $35 and available at sinfoniagulfcoast.com or call 269-7129.

The Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra 2011-12 concert season includes the following. Call 729-6000 for ticket information.

• Feb. 17: Annual Stars of Tomorrow, with guest artists from some of the finest young talent the area has to offer as well as the orchestra’s tribute to the Old West in a performance of Copland’s Billy the Kid.

• April 28: Season finale will feature three giants of classical music, Franz Josef Haydn and his two most talented students, Mozart and Beethoven.

The Florida Chautauqua presents their production of “Steel Magnolias” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17, 18, 24 and 25 and 2:30 p.m. Feb. 19 and 26 at the Florida Chautauqua Theatre. Tickets are $15 for general admission/ $12 for seniors and students. Call 892-9494 for tickets.

Gulf Place Mardi Gras

The First Gulf Place Mardi Gras Street Party begins at noon Feb. 18 in the street at Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach. There will be food, drinks, beads, costumes, parades, face painting, arts and crafts, and live New Orleans music, beginning at 2 p.m. The Barkus Pet Parade begins at noon, followed by a Bike and Golf Cart Parade and costume contest. To participate, call 622-0400, email or pick up application at Artists at Gulf Place, Restaurant Fire, or Furry Fanatics.

The Friends of the Coastal Branch Library will host a used book sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 18 at the Library, 437 Greenway Trail. Most hardback books will sell for $1 with some specialty or large coffee table books up to $5.  Paperback books are 50 cents. To donate books, take them to the Library before Feb. 17.  Members of the Friends are invited for a preview or presale from 3-5 p.m. Feb. 17.

The Freeport Relay for Life will host a spaghetti dinner and bingo night from 5-8 p.m. Feb. 18 at the Freeport Community Center. The dinner is $7. Carry out meals available. Bingo players can purchase cards for $1 each in order to play for a variety of prizes. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Call 259-8871.

The Delta Delta Delta Alumnae of the Emerald Coast will meet at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 18 at Sandestin Beach Club. For reservations, gate code and directions, call 654-5008 or email .

Choctawhatchee Audubon Society

Take a birding and photography walk Feb. 18 with Walt Spence on the nature trails of the E. O. Wilson Biophilia Center at Nokuse Plantation near Freeport. Meet at the Bluewater Bay Winn-Dixie at 7 a.m.; Freeport City Hall at 7:30 a.m.; or at the Biophilia Center at 8 a.m. Call 678-3965.

Sandestin Gumbo Festival

The 23rd annual Sandestin Gumbo Cook-off will be held Feb. 18-19 at The Village of Baytowne Wharf and includes fun, food and live entertainment. Guests can sample gumbo and Bloody Marys, voting for their favorite as People’s Choice. Celebrity judges will hold blind judging contests for the “Area’s Best” awards for gumbo. The award for Best Display, which goes to the business or restaurant with the most innovative booth, will also be announced.

Sean Dietrich and his group play Wednesday nights at Christiano’s Ristorante on U.S. 98 in Santa Rosa Beach. Call 267-2185.

 

Singer/guitarist Bill Evett performs from 7-11 p.m. Fridays at Marie’s Bistro on 30A in Blue Mountain Beach. DJ Vladi begins DJ-ing dance music and fun at 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; Karaoke takes center stage on Wednesdays; Kelsey Ann performs Thursdays; and Danice Lowery on Tuesdays.

 

Storytelling workshop

Coastal Library Storytelling Workshops will be held at 4 p.m. every Monday in the community room for elementary age children grades 3 and up. Storyteller Susie Arnold will present the art of storytelling with puppets and props inviting young people to “tell” stories. Call 267-2809 or email for more information.

Thursday thread therapy

Needlers, knitters, crocheters and others come for free therapy from 4-6 p.m. Thursdays on the porch at Yards N Yarn, 3770 Co. Hwy. 3280 in Freeport. Call 880-6404.

Seaside Farmers Market

Get your pick of fresh produce, baked goods, dairy products, native plants and other unique offerings during Market on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Amphitheatre behind Raw & Juicy. Enjoy special cooking demos and activities.

Emerald Coast Pipes & Drums

All performing and student bagpipers, former and current marching band snare, tenor, and bass drummers are welcome to join the Emerald Coast Pipes & Drums in Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa Counties. The group meets at 6 p.m. Thursdays at First United Methodist Church in Niceville, 214 Partin Drive, for beginner bagpiping classes and 6:30 p.m. for rehearsals for performing players. Email or call 243-2879.

The Chautauqua Amateur Radio Club of DeFuniak Springs/Walton County meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of every month at McLean’s Restaurant near I10 and 331 South. This club welcomes new and old Ham Radio operators. There are no business meetings on these Tuesdays. We have classes and a great time together. Call 892-2562 or email .

Rotary Club of South Walton

The Rotary Club of South Walton meets for breakfast at 7:30 a.m. each Thursday morning at the Embassy Suites, Scenic Hwy. 98 in Miramar Beach. Visiting Rotarians and their guests are welcome. Call 267-2929.

Herman Lodge #108 Free and Accepted Masons will meet at 7 p.m. first and third Tuesdays of each month on Madison Street in Freeport. Call 835-2314.

The Order of the Eastern Star #281 meets at 7:30 p.m. the first and third Fridays of each month at Herman Lodge on Madison Street in Freeport. Call 835-2314.

Pianist Hilda McDonald plays mellow melodies at 6 p.m. Fridays at Christiano’s in Santa Rosa Beach.

The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays through May 31. Admission is $5/person, $2/children 6-12, and children 5 and under are free. Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

A Society of Human Resource Management Chapter in Walton County will meet at 8 a.m. the first Thursday of the month at TJ’s Table in Freeport. The group is open to all individuals involved in any aspect of human resources. Email or call 892-8668, ext. 215. 

JobsPlus Mobile stops

Stops for the JobsPlus One-Stop Centers will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at Freeport City Hall; from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the fourth Wednesday at Silver Sands Outlet; and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the fourth Thursday at the South Walton Library. Jobseekers will be able to register in the EmployFlorida Marketplace database enabling them to search and apply for open positions and apply for unemployment compensation.

The Town Planters of Freeport will meet at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at the Blount House on Kylea Laird Road. Call 835-5611.

The Modern Bridal Expo will be held from 12:30-4 p.m. Feb. 19 at Sandestin’s Baytowne Conference Center, giving brides the opportunity to experience a day full of designer wedding trend ideas, vendors and destination wedding experts.

Mardi Gras Dog Parade

The ninth annual Mardi Gras dog parade will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 19 at Baytowne Wharf. This year’s theme is Cruisin’ Canines: Fetch a Wave! The streets will be filled with costumed dogs, themed convertibles, small floats (especially pulled by masters), golf carts, bicycles, and decorated wagons and Mardi Gras music will fill the air. Proceeds from this event will benefit Alaqua Animal Refuge.

Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade

“Laissez les bon temps rouler” (let the good times roll) with the 10th annual Fat Tuesday Baytowne Bash Parade at 5 p.m. Feb. 21 rolling through Sandestin. Unique and colorful floats, golf carts, and pick-up trucks roll down the streets and marchers dressed up in all their Mardi Gras best shower parade-goers with a barrage of beads, moon pies, and other trinkets.

The post-parade celebration continues into the night with street performers, “throws” tossed from balconies on Main Street, and parties at various Baytowne establishments.

Shirley Simpson performs on stage as Gracie Allen at 5 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Sandestin Hilton Coral Ballroom. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 for the benefit performance for Billy Gray Ministries. Call 502-548-5311 or 582-4986.

The Workforce Development Board of Okaloosa and Walton Counties and its JobsPlus One-Stop Career Centers will host the 2012 Spring Seasonal Hiring Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Emerald Coast Convention Center. The job fair is free and individuals from students to seniors are invited.

Shelter House presents the Carrabba’s Italian Grill Cooking Class from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 24 at Carrabba’s in Silver Sands Factory Stores. The $40 registration includes a glass of wine and recipes to take home. Seating is limited. Call 243-1201.

The16th Annual Taste of the Bayou and Charity Auction, sponsored by Okaloosa-Walton Child Care Services, will be held from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 24 at St. Mary Church in Fort Walton Beach. The event features local restaurants presenting samples of their delicacies. The silent charity auction features a trip to the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, autographed sports memorabilia, resort vacation getaways, golf packages, fishing trips, Disney World tickets and more. Advance tickets are $12/adults and $5/children 5-10. Call 833-9330, ext.202, for purchase locations. Tickets are $15 at the door.

Miss Freeport pageants

The Town Planters Society of Freeport will host the Miss Florida 2012 Pageants at 6 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Freeport High School Auditorium. Signs up from 9 a.m. to noon Jan. 21 and 28 at The Blount House, Kylea Laird Dr. Age groups are K-1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 and 16-21. Miss Freeport 2012 receives a $1,000 scholarship to school of her choice. All others will a savings bond. Call 835-5200 or 830-2389.

The 18th annual WZEP Taste of Home Cooking School will be held at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Walton High School auditorium. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Culinary expert Michelle Roberts will demonstrate new recipes, and gift bags include an assortment of products and coupons including a cookbook with the show’s recipes. Attendees should bring non-perishable items for the Matrix Outreach Center in DeFuniak Springs. Tickets are $10 and available at WZEP AM 1460 Radio in DeFuniak Springs, or on-line at wzep1460.com. Call 892-3158. 

IHOP invites guests to enjoy a free short stack of IHOP’s signature buttermilk pancakes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 28. In return, guests are encouraged to make a voluntary donation to support the local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital or another local charity. 

Music in Pictures, a free educational art exhibit, will be held through Feb. 28 at The Hidden Lantern Gallery and Amavida in Rosemary Beach, Wells Fargo Redfish Village. More than 900 students from 13 Walton County schools listened to and visually interpreted works by 20th century American composer Aaron Copland. 

MARCH 2012

 

Wine, Women & Shoes

A weekend of Wine, Women & Shoes to raise funds in support of local PBS television station, WSRE, will be held locally March 2-4. Wine lovers, men and women, will meet some of the country’s top winemakers, savor dinners prepared by top chefs, bid on auction packages and shop the latest trends in a designer marketplace.

• March 2: Patron Dinners featuring world-class wines and a private chef, all held in Destin residences. Tickets are $250 per person.

• March 3: The Fourth Annual WSRE “Recipe for Success” Wine Dinner and Live Auction complete with wine stroll, gourmet dinner and a live at the Emerald Grande Ballroom. Tickets are $150 per person.

• March 4: Wine, Women & Shoes Signature Event at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort’s Magnolia Ballroom. Enjoy a wine tasting, shopping market of designer shoes and accessories, a silent auction and a fashion show. Tickets are $65 each.

To purchase tickets, visit wsre.org/WineWomenShoes or call 484-1054.

 

Saint Agatha’s Episcopal Church, 150 Circle Dr. in DeFuniak Springs, will host a breakfast, Cooked To Order, from 7-11 a.m. March 3, April 7 and May 5. Cost is $4.50 adults and $2.50 children under 10. Proceeds benefit the building and grounds fund.

 

The 30A Wine Festival is a two-day event in Alys Beach March 3 and 4, featuring seminars, a wine symposium, and tastings along with food pairings from local restaurants, live music and dancing. Tickets are $300 and include entrance to all events throughout the weekend. Funds will be used for on-going operating funds to sustain the Children’s Volunteer Health Network.  To purchase tickets call 622-3200 or visit 30awinefestival.com

 

America’s Boating Course

A 5-week public boating course, America’s Boating Course 3, will be conducted from 6:30-9 p.m. on Monday nights beginning March 5 at the Anchorage building, 404 Green Acres Road in Fort Walton Beach. Tuition is free, with a $45 charge for materials.

The course covers safe boat handling, good seamanship, rules of the road, aids to navigation and piloting, tips about local waters, and more. Call 863-0874.

Wednesday Night Concert Series

The Village of Baytowne Wharf presents a free concert from 6-8 p.m. March 7 in the Events Plaza. Call 267-8186.

Nicole Paloma will offer new sessions of free sewing classes for beginners or pros from 9-11 a.m. March 9. Bring your stylish self, sewing machine and a project you are working on. The store is in the Shops of Grayton, 26 Logan Lane in Santa Rosa Beach.

Antique & Vintage Car Show

The 11th Annual Rt. 30A Antique & Vintage Car Show, sponsored by Hilltop Productions, will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 24 on the lawns of Rosemary Beach. Registration begins at 9 a.m. on North Barrett Square for any car 30 years and older. Awards will be presented in various categories. Entry fee is $20/advance and $25/day of event. Proceeds benefit various charities on the Florida Emerald Coast. There will be entertainment, gift bags for participants, commemorative posters, and demonstrations. Call 951-2148.

APRIL 2012

Northwest Florida Ballet’s 2011-2012 season serves up three major productions at the Mattie Kelly Fine & Performing Arts Center, including an epic romance, a beloved favorite, special new guest artists and a touch of magic. Call 664-7787 for ticket information.

• Romeo and Juliet: 7:30 p.m. March 30 and 2:30 p.m. April 1.

• Starlight Ballet: June in Rosemary Beach.

MAY 2012

Country music performer Darius Rucker will headline a charity concert at 7 p.m. May 13 on the North Park lawn at the Grand Boulevard at Sandestin as an exciting finale to the inaugural ANNIKA & Friends at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. General admission tickets go on sale Dec. 1 at AnnikaandFriends.com.

Travel has always made it simple for me to judge what is the best travel packages. You may have to have your travel agent performance tested. World Ventures maintains office space in Plano and employs a corporate staff has over 165 people. The Cuevas de los Tiburones (Caves of the Sleeping Sharks next to Las Brisask dive sight): shark sightings are rare since the famous arch fell into the Caribbean after the last hurricane), but it is still the largest attraction on this tiny island. In fact, "What's good for the goose is good for the gander." whenever they wince at the thought. This groove is also an ordinary viewpoint to put forth in this context. International sculptors Jose Luis Cuevas and Vladimir Cora donated their underwater work to the island. In choosing where to go and stay, if you book your hotel directly by telephone, email the hotel and ask them to confirm your booking by sending you a booking confirmation reference code.