The Circus

Naveen Marasinghe asked:


Street festivals, carnivals and parades have always been a way for a community to express themselves freely. It’s also a way for people to come together, irrespective of their differences, put everything else aside and simply have a great time.

The best and most distinctive part of the Notting Hill Carnival is that children are a key part of it. The carnival lasts for two days – Sunday and the next bank holiday – and Sunday has a lot of activities, including a much shortened parade, for children and young people, where they have a marvelous chance to have a lot of fun.

Notting Hill Carnival is the initiative of the Caribbean population. It has been conducted every year since 1965.

Since 1976, though, the involvement of children became more prominent; the carnival has been fairly peaceful and conducted in the best of spirits. The children and young people dress up in elaborate and fun costumes, sticking to the Caribbean theme, and sport painted faces. People with disabilities and families are encouraged to participate now, at least on Sunday, which is the Children’s Day. They display and carry art that they create and show off their talents, and have an interesting and enlightening time.

The carnival might officially begin on Sunday, but Saturday is the Panorama National Champions of Steel competition. Steelpan bands from all over the country participate in this event, which is conducted in Hyde Park from 2007. Till then, the venue had been Kensal Road. Notting Hill Carnival has often been compared to Karneval de Kulturen, Berlin.

Once the children have had their fun, on Monday, the real Carnival Parade takes place, which takes a much longer route, through Great Western Road, Chepstow Road, Westbourne Grove and Ladbroke Grove.

Though this carnival was originally for the Caribbean population, now a variety of cultures, mostly through art and music, are represented, though the beats of the Calypso can still be heard.

More than any one culture, Notting Hill Carnival has come to become a noisy, good natured, fun and music filled celebration of people – just people.

Don’t just visit London to get a glimpse of the Notting Hill Carnival, take some time off to explore the museums, historic sites and all the modern aspects of London as well. Your choice of London hotels give you a great way to experience London in all its splendor, especially if you choose one of the London luxury hotels, such as the Langham, hotel London.



HOLLIS

Brian Garvin asked:


At county and state fairs there are always games of chance and the barkers are there shouting out to the crowds. Using their booming voice and quick time patter, they deftly raise the anticipation level of those coming closer to the carnival wheel. A few taunts, jeers, promises, and people begin to part with those dollar bills. The money is placed on the bets and the excitement level ratchets upward another few notches.

It is a safe assumption that there will be at least one winner among the gathering throng as the betting public gets into the spirit of the game. The barker knows this crowd and he knows how to wow them. The star attraction is the magnificent “36 Inch Carnival Wheel” which is at the center of it all. With 20 individual spaces and 40 long lasting pegs, this gaming piece is designed to withstand turn after turn of the wheel. The numbers are listed in colorful letters on each space and as the wheel gets moved back and forth, they catch the eye of the crowd.

No one is immune to the clicking of the wheel as it is sent spinning to a new destiny. Each person who has a stake in the outcome edge closer, willing the “36 Inch Carnival Wheel” to land on the number that they have chosen. Each number corresponds to a prize and everyone wants to be the winner. At last, the wheel begins to make those final clicks as it rolls to a stop. There is a hushed anticipation in the air and almost everyone is holding their breath. All eyes are locked on the wheel as it click.. click.. clicks.. to its final stop.

The pegs click over one last time as the pointer shows the winning number. There are muted sounds and sighs of exasperation from the ones who almost won. There is also the yell and cheer from the one person who selected that one winning bet. Almost as one, the throng begins to pull out more dollars for one more bet and one more spin of the wheel. The barker smiles a toothy smile indeed, because his mission is accomplished and the spell has been cast.

You can own this “36 Inch Carnival Wheel” for yourself and use it to spin out some incredible games of chance at a moment’s notice. Use it for business, fun or in the company of friends. You can bring all of the excitement of a Roulette Wheel in Vegas or Atlantic City to your own home now. This “36 inch Carnival Wheel” measures a full yard in diameter and offers fun as big as its size. It has 40 strong and long lasting metal pegs that will withstand as much play as you can give it. The spins are long, hard, and fast and this is one wheel that is going to provide you with no favoritism.. all bets are even at the start and lady luck is needed to help your number hit.



ENRIQUE

Katelyn Husereau asked:


2009 Massachusetts Family Business of the Year Award Winners Announced

 

BOSTON, May 5, 2009 — The Massachusetts Family Business of the Year winners were announced at the 3rd annual Massachusetts Family Business of the Year awards program on April 29, 2009. 

 

The 2009 Massachusetts Family Business of the Year Award winners are:

SALMON Health and Retirement, Northbridge MA, – The Karofsky Award, for companies with over 250 employees.

FIBA Technologies, Millbury MA, The Molloy Award, 50 – 250 employees

Elaine Construction, Newton MA, The Paisner Award, below 50 employees

 

The Award categories are based on the number of full time employees and all Massachusetts-based family-owned business that include, or has included more than one generation, are eligible.

 

“Family businesses represent the best in business,” stated Ted Clark, Director of the Northeastern University Center for Family Business. Clark continued, “We were thrilled to continue the Awards program again this year.  There are so many great family businesses in the state it’s exciting to honor them at this program.” 

 

Past Massachusetts Family Business of the Year Award winners include: Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture, New England Coffee, The Lupoli Companies, Avedis Zildjian Co., Camp Thoreau, and Crescent Ridge Dairy.

 

The Massachusetts Family Business of the Year Awards program was originally created in a partnership between Northeastern University’s Center for Family Business and The Family Firm Institute New England Chapter to promote and highlight some of the great achievements of Massachusetts-based, family-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.

 

About Northeastern University’s Center for Family Business

Northeastern University’s Center for Family Business is a membership organization that provides education, networking opportunities, and support to business families.  The Center helps its members identify and avoid potential pitfalls, solve complex interpersonal and family business issues, and plan for future family business success in an increasingly more competitive environment. 

 

About Northeastern University College of Business Administration

The College’s BS in International Business is ranked 13th in the nation for international business programs by U.S. News & World Report.  BusinessWeek ranks the undergraduate business program 26th in the country and number 1 for internships.

 

Katelyn Husereau

Northeastern University

Center for Family Business

617.373.3718

k.husereau@neu.edu

                    

 

SOURCE  Northeastern University Center for Family Business

 

Katelyn Husereau, 617-373-3718, k.husereau@neu.edu

 

 



DEXTER

Pushpitha Wijesinghe asked:


With its strengthening role as a cultural and arts hub, Hong Kong fascinates with colour and energy during summer where International Arts Carnival takes place between July and August each year. This six weeks festival takes place at various locations in the city enabling every family to enjoy a culture filled summer. This event hosts around 500 international performances and is recognized as an entertaining event for the whole family. Dance, drama, magic, clowning, comedy, puppetry and acrobats are among the popular performances of this carnival where the performers are from countries like Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Spain while the majority is local. It is recognized as an excellent opportunity for local and international performers to show their talents and be internationally acclaimed. Over 150000 performers take part in this event which aid in adding colour to it.

Apart form these performances this carnival also boasts of hosting workshops, design competitions, outdoor fun days, exhibitions and school tours to different cultural venues for youngsters to obtain a real experience. A Graphic Design Competition is also open to all primary and secondary school students with one day camps. The carnival also marks the anniversary of Hong Kong’s establishment as a special administrative region.

It is an excellent way to indulge in entertainment during ones summer as well as learning about international cultures and customs. While indulging yourself in entertainment by visiting International Arts Carnival find your accommodation in s 5 star hotel in Hong Kong. One such hotel would be Langham Place Hotel Hong Kong which is an ideal location to have a leisurely break.



VALENTIN

Abhishek Agarwal asked:


Are you tired of working eight hours a day, seven days a week? Are you getting bored of your everyday routine and want something new to satisfy your craving for adventure?

Then perhaps, all you need is a three-day or even a week worth of vacation in a Carnival Cruise. This trip is an ideal way to treat yourself, even for a few days. While on the trip, you do not need to worry too much about paying additional charges for your meals, amusement and other special activities. All you just have to do is to relax and charge everything to the ship.

While on the ship, you will also experience being pampered by the staff since they will give you soothing massage services, sauna baths in spas, hair treatment and other beauty care services. All of these are available in one location; you just have to walk to each shop to get the services.

Carnival cruise is regarded as one of the most famous cruise lines in the world. Most of the travelers waiting to reach their destinations simply eat, dream and dance the day and night away.

Carnival cruises are popular to first time travelers, from children to teenagers, from young singles to the older singles, from couples to adults. The best things to experience at the Carnival cruise includes informal dinner at the Sea View Bistro, a suitable 24-hour pizza restaurant, the Captain’s party, fine dining, and the room services which are available 24 hours a day.

Not only that, you will also get the chance watch movies everyday, play at the Las Vegas style casinos, swim at onboard pools, shop at the duty free shopping and join parties every now and then.

Carnival cruise is an entertainment oriented cruise ship for all traveling singles, couples and families, it brings many travelers from all ages, and lifestyles on the ship is comparable to any other cruise line available. You will also be given the chance to enjoy a sumptuous evening in cafes and restaurants onboard such as the Paris Lounge, Café des Artistes, and the casino of Monte Carlo.

Carnival cruise also offers complete comfort with large spaces and calming accommodations inside one of their staterooms. The cabins and rooms are fully carpeted with cabinets and amenities like sink, bathtubs, and showers. Each room also has a color television. You will find all the amenities you will find in the comforts of your own home in a Carnival cruise liner cabin.

The rooms of Carnival cruise are 50 percent bigger than other average cruise lines wherein you can have a hundred percent private space.

If there are instances that you are not contented with the services offered by Carnival cruises, you can inform the cruise liner about this. The cruise will be willing to compensate for the unused part of your cruise charges and will reimburse your return flight fare.

Now, how will you be able to get the lowest rate in the carnival Cruise?

Simply get a cruise expert.

With the help of a cruise expert, you will be able to remove or at least minimize all the doubts and hesitations when employing a travel agent. Since the expert knows on how cruise lines work, they will know the best date to have a vacation on a specific place. Cruise experts are also knowledgeable about the cruise promotions, cruise information and cruise destinations.

When looking for a cruise expert, meet them face to face if possible. This is one way to make sure that the expert you are employing has already been in a cruise and knows exactly what you want to know. In addition, when choosing the right cruise expert, be sure that the expert will guide you on the whole booking procedure.

To make sure that the expert will not deceive you, call the cruise line then make a comparison on how he or she hascharged you to the actual rate that the cruise line is giving. Just make sure that the rate is already covering all port charges and taxes.

For most cruise vacationers, it does not matter how much it will cost them to have the cruise vacation. However, for some, it really is important to save money. So, if you are one of those people, you now know what to do to lessen your expenses.



MARCUS

Andre Skowronski asked:


Copyright (c) 2008 Andre Skowronski

During Brazil’s Carnival, one of the most disputed (and sometimes controversial) unofficial contests is deciding who was the “ultimate muse”, after the four-day party holiday is over. Brazilians, international press, and publicity agencies, reflect upon who was the most dazzling drum queen or parading muse in Rio’s Sambadrome. There is no official title for this informal contest, but national media always try to elect Carnival model number 1. Many criticize this “new” beauty frenzy. People question why does this vibrant contest even exist? Is it a sin to be a muse in the Brazilian Carnival? Is it there any problem in being attractive, sensual or graceful? This is main topic of this article.

Celebrities, actresses, models are usually selected and the top Brazilian beauty during the Carnival holidays. Carnival muses are extremely well paid by the publicity market and pampered by top samba schools. The beer, retail, cosmetics and fashion industry are some of segments that constantly rely on Brazilian models to support their brands. Actresses, celebrities, and performers legitimately see carnival as an opportunity to cash in the investment they have made along their carrier in their mythical attributes. Many of them enhance their media visibility in the samba parade, while being evaluated for movie and TV soap operas casts and TV shows. Nothing wrong with that! Although we have seen some infuriated perspectives, beauty has its decisive place when appropriately shown.

A famous quote by “The girl of Ipanema” songwriter Vinicius de Moraes says: “The ugly will pardon me, but beauty is fundamental,”. Nothing new since “Beauty is truth, truth is beauty” from Keats “Ode on a Grecian Urn”.

Amanda Fran?o - model and talk show presenter

Juliana Paes - Model and Movie Actress

Sabrina Sato - model, TV presenter and comedian

Graziella Massafera - model and TV actress

Natalia Guimar? - Miss Brazil

Mirella Santos - model and dancer

Gracyanne Barbosa - Model and Mangueira Drum Queen

Paola Oliveira - TV Actress and Model

All of these beauties reached the limelight in Brazil (and abroad) not only because of their natural gifts, provided by genes, sweat and tears. They have true talents such as representing, dancing, modeling and other artistic expressions. Beauty alone is incapable of lending more than the Andy Warhol’s original 15 minutes of fame. Muses have much more to offer in their souls than symmetric lines and sensual poses.

I leave you to make the final call who is the ultimate carnival muse in 2008. The important point to notice is that most of these muses deliver wonder and magic to earth largest popular show, which is the Brazilian Carnival. I believe Brazilian women are authentic in every aspect of their vibrant personalities. Brazilian Carnival is obviously much more than this. (In the collective unconscious abroad, Brazilian carnival is sometimes linked to nudity).

Brazilian women are indeed magically esthetically gifted, and again, I personally think there is nothing wrong with that. Beauty has been worshiped since the Greeks, Romans, and even before, when our ancestors walked the African plains. Many evolutionary psychologists point out today that back in the pleistocene days, beauty was an important fitness indicator. In essence, the beauty debate is a much more complex issue than a simple dichotomist approach can imagine.



JOESPH

Brent Riggs asked:


A reader asked about this situation: In my extended family, there is an immature and angry person. Actually, this person is not only hateful and argumentative, he has told blatant and dangerous lies about my family. Specifically, he claims that my husband did something inappropriate. No one in the family believes him, but I’m wondering how I should handle this, especially with the holidays coming. We have family events planned, but I don’t want to be around him, nor do I want my family around him. Is that unchristian? Do you have any advice?

You have every right to choose the people who can be around your family in a private situation in your own ?territory? (i.e. your home, your events, etc.).

However, you should not force your personal convictions about another family on OTHER family members outside your home. You have the ability to choose not to attend something at their house or any other house where the person might be present, but you should not tell other people who they can or cannot invite.

Also, you should not take it upon yourself, in my opinion, to inform other family why you have declined an invitation unless they specifically ask. Then, you should be a “non-gossipy” and uncritical as you can while still being honest. “We are choosing not to come because of the situation between us and [the other family member].?

Because of the seriousness of the accusation against your husband, it is important that if you do attend the family function, do not let anyone in your family be alone with that person. Don’t give credibility to the accusations. Without evidence or the collaboration of witnesses, it is just talk. Hurtful, but just talk.

As far as your attitude goes, it would only be unchristian if you were to withhold forgiveness. Otherwise, do what you are able to do for the sake of peace, keeping things from escalating, BUT always protecting your family.

Remember, as a Christian, your marriage and your kids come first.

Attend the family dinner. Go to the holiday party. In public, act like everything is fine. If the offending family member makes an effort to patch things up, reciprocate. However, I must warn you to be careful and discerning. People often use attempts at reconciliation as a ploy to start things up again.

DO NOT talk to others in your family about the family member in question. This is big temptation you need to stop, or avoid, whichever is the case. There is nothing good about getting everyone on “your side” or spreading around the “news” of this bad behavior under the guise of being “concerned”. That would be gossip, plain and simple.

Ultra-immature and childish members of the extended family can be quite maddening, but they don’t have to have power over you. YOU dictate the interaction with your family on YOUR turf, but you can only carefully manage the situation outside your own environment, like at this Thanksgiving event.

I want to say this again ? do not force your family members to side with you. People are smart and will be able to see the truth. Troublemakers and liars rarely have their family members fooled. It’s not fair for you to demand the other family members abide by your convictions. Therefore, your options are not to attend or to hold a gathering at your home without inviting the offending family member.

To boil it down, here is my advice ? if you choose to allow the family member to come to your home, make sure it is with the understanding that there must be no fighting. No angry outbursts will be allowed. If that occurs, he will be asked to leave. Remember not to allow your immediate family to be alone with him. Attend the other family events, but inform the hostess that if the offender creates a scene, you will immediately leave the party.



CARY

KimRix asked:


It s London and its August, so that can mean only one thing, prepare for a supercharged eruption of noise and colour - it is carnival time! During the last weekend of August, Notting Hill is transformed into a sea of music, colour and outrageous costumes with over one million people partying like they’ve never partied before. Second only to Rio, Notting Hill is the biggest street carnival in Europe.

 

Flamboyantly dressed revellers will dance their way along its three mile route to the sound of steel bands, reggae, soul, hip-hop, funk and drum and base music. It is a time of fun, merriment and excess.

 

But be careful, it is all too easy to get carried away with the party atmosphere. Indulge a little. Forget the strict diet (if you happen to follow one) just for one day. You’ll be doing so much dancing and gyrating that the odd burger will soon be worked off. Keep yourself hydrated preferably by drinking plenty of water rather than alcohol. By all means indulge in a glass or two of your favourite tipple but be careful as it is all too easy to get carried away. You’ll be high enough on the atmosphere without needing the aid of alcohol.

 

Mind you, if you are donning a rather scanty costume a glass or two might give you the courage you need to venture out into the street! Carnival time is all about having fun safely. Enjoy the spectacle. Let your hips sway to the beat of the music. It’s OK, no one is watching you. Let your hair down and let the carnival spirit take over.

 

The SaVVy Club - Who else wants to have ‘once-in-a-life-time’ experiences and socialise with the highest quality people in London? http://www.savvyclub.co.uk/forthcoming-events.cfm



CODY

Erick Laseca asked:


While millions of tourists flock to Mexico every year by land and air, the country has also become the world’s top cruise destination, with cruises becoming more popular and lifestyle specific every year.

According to recent statistics released by Mexico’s Tourism Secretariat (Sectur), some 6.5 million passengers arrived to Mexico’s ports in 2005. The most popular port is by far on the island of Cozumel, located just south of Cancun in the Mexican Caribbean. According to Mexico’s Communications and Transportation Secretariat, 754 ships arrived to Cozumel in the first ten months of 2006, carrying some 1.5 million passengers. The second most popular port is Costa Maya on the Mexican Caribbean, which received 263 ships, carrying more than 500,000 in the first ten months of 2006.

Mexico boasts two dozen port cities. Apart from Cozumel and Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan are the most popular ports along the Pacific coast, while Costa Maya in Quintana Roo State and Puerto Progreso in Yucatan State are the most popular on the Caribbean side. In addition to being bustling metropolises in their own right, offering the best in shopping, cultural activities and cuisine to the traveler, most ports are also located just a stone’s throw from the country’s leading archaeological treasures and other attractions. Part of the popularity of cruises can also be attributed to the traveling public’s desire to experience more destinations in one vacation, with most cruises offering stops in at least three or four different destinations.

According to Sectur, in the past two decades the number of cruise ships stopping in Mexican ports has increased dramatically, with most major cruise lines now serving the Gulf, Central Pacific and Caribbean, having incorporated these popular destinations into their itineraries. In 2005, the Mexican government invested more than US $7 million in the development of the Port of Chiapas, Mexico’s newest cruise destination. The port welcomed its first passenger vessel in February 2006.

As the number of cruise passengers increases, the demand for a variety of services and themes have also increased, what the cruise industry often refers to as lifestyle cruises.

Below are just some samples of new cruise offerings:

Sun salutations

The Radisson Seven Seas hosts several lifestyle cruises, among them a yoga cruise from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to Cozumel, featuring Michael Lechonczak and Robin Whitney Levine, a New York City-based husband and wife yoga team, who will bring the art and science of yoga to guests of the luxurious 700-guest Seven Seas Mariner. Their daily onboard program will offer a variety of options for men and women, yoga beginners and experts of all ages. Classes on meditation and aromatherapy will round out the mix.

Food & wine

The Radisson Seven Seas also offers a special Food & Wine spotlight cruise on the Mariner in March. The cruise, which sails from Los Angeles and stops in Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco and Huatulco in Oaxaca, features a Cordon Bleu cooking school and Sonoma Valley wines. Max McCalman, chef formageur from New York’s Picholine Restaurant will provide expert tips, instruction and 24/7 wine tasting.

Mickey on board

Disney Cruise Line is also increasing its presence to Mexico, offering a variety of cruises to Mexico including calls to Cozumel on the Caribbean side, as well as calls to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific side. Disney offers special programs for children, teens and as well as adults, offering something for the entire family. The Disney Magic ship to Mexico’s western ports has been enhanced by a 24-by14 foot jumbo LED screen for poolside movies and an expanded fitness and spa center for adults.

Low carbs and smart kids

Carnival’s Fun Ships will make more than 1,100 calls to Mexican ports in 2005, with Mexico being by far the most popular destination for Carnival. Carnival has also diversified its offerings by adding low carb meals to its menus and expanding its kids programs to focus on art, music, science, reading and physical fitness.

Gay travel

Atlantis (www.atlantisevents.com) is one of the largest *** travel tour operators offering cruise packages to Mexico. The Mexican Riviera cruise is one of the most popular, offering five Mexican destinations in eight days on the new Radiance of the Seas ship. Rated by Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice as one of the best ships in the world, Radiance of the Seas offers among its many amenities a rock-climbing wall, two pools and an African-themed solarium complete with 17-foot high stone elephants and waterfalls. In Mexico, the ship will visit Ixtapa, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San

Lucas.

Clothing optional

For au naturel travelers, Bare Necessities offers a variety of clothing-optional cruises. And nudetravel.com also offers clothing optional packages including information on nudist resorts in Mexico.



Blind cruises

Damar Travel at 800-999-6101 offers cruises for the blind to Mexico.

Below are some of the many cruise lines that dock in Mexican ports as part of their regular routes:

Carnival Cruise Lines, Crystal Cruises, Disney Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Princess, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, P&O Cruises

About the Mexico Tourism Board

The Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) brings together the resources of federal and state governments, municipalities and private companies to promote Mexico’s tourism attractions and destinations internationally. Created in 1999, the MTB is Mexico’s tourism promotion agency, and its participants include members of both the private and public sectors. The MTB has offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America.

# # #

Erick Laseca

Mexico Tourism Board

312-228-0517

erick.laseca@bm.com

http://www.visiitmexicopress.com



HARLEY

Gregory DeVictor asked:


Rival Gaming is one of the newer software providers for the online gambling industry. Since it was founded, Rival Gaming has launched nearly 75 online casino games, including over 50 3-reel and 5-reel slots, progressive jackpots, and interactive i-Slots. Each Rival slot has its own unique theme, ranging from the 1980’s to ancient Egypt to American football. This article discusses Five Reel Circus, one of Rival Gaming’s 5-reel slots.

Five Reel Circus is a 5-reel, 15 pay-line bonus feature slot that has a circus theme.

Five Reel Circus has a betting range that will suit any pocket. It accepts coins from 1¢ to 25¢, and the maximum number of coins that you can bet per spin is 75 ($18.75). The top jackpot is 7,500 coins.

Five Reel Circus has 35 winning combinations, wilds (Tiger), scatters (Big Top Clowns), and 10 free spins.

Symbols on this 5-reel slot include Bear, Tiger, Lion, Elephant, Big Top Clowns, Ring Master, Bearded Lady, Acrobat, and Circus Wagon.

Rival Gaming has over a dozen online casinos including Sloto’Cash, Superior, Lion Slots, Absolute Slots, Club Vegas USA, Cocoa, DaVinci’s Gold, Mayan Fortune, Pantasia, Paradise 8, Slots of Fortune, and This Is Vegas. Players from the USA are welcome at all Rival Gaming online casinos.

So there you have it, an introduction to Five Reel Circus, one of Rival Gaming’s 5-reel video slots. Whether you play slot machines in Las Vegas or at your favorite online casino, gamble only with money you can afford to lose. Decide beforehand how much you want to spend during your gambling session and don’t exceed the spending limit should you lose. Finally, have fun and quit while you are ahead.



VICTOR