#4th of july events in jacksonville

[nealshustermanreal]

4th Stop! Join me on Saturday, July 20th at 2:00 PM ET for a book signing event at Barnes and Noble San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida, for "Break To You," co-authored with Debra Young and Michelle Knowlden. Readers have been buzzing with excitement about this newly released book and its captivating story, and I can't wait to share the experience with you. Don't miss out!

For further updates or details on the event, visit this link: https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/event/9780062169355-0

[hadenodom-stories]

Clair’s Voyage, Part 1

Clair woke up in a cold sweat.  There was no light breaking through her open window, and her heavy dark Navy curtains made no noise as they wavered in the summer wind.  It was the 5th of July, and she was freaking out.  Have you ever had a dream that stays on your mind and colors your mood for an entire day?  Clair had just endured the second such dream in as many nights.

Regardless of the dread her dream had instilled in her, she knew she had to get up and moving.  Yesterday's dream had nearly sapped her of all of her energy, and her friend Elaine had noticed at the neighborhood 4th of July cookout.  "I've never seen you in such a foul mood", she'd remarked.  She couldn't let that happen today.  She had a very important interview, and her entire future potentially hinged on it.  She couldn't be in a dour, depressed state -- 'Then I'll have to fake a smile', she thought, 'and I'm absolute shit at that'.  

Despite a grim determination to force herself into a better mood, she found herself dwelling on the previous day's events as she trudged through the hallways of her quiet house towards the kitchen.  By the time she was sitting down, her head full of frizzy auburn hair slumped forward beholding the sight of a depressing bowl of some "healthy" cereal that'd been sitting in the cupboards well past its expiration date, her mind was busy replaying  and reliving the most traumatic part of that day.  The part that she'd seen before in a nightmare just hours before it happened in real life.  The part of the day that was at first clouded in a sense of Déjà vu -- a surreal "I've seen all of these events, in this exact order, before..." sense -- until it burst into traumatic realness.  The pops and whizzes of fireworks zooming into the sky.  The cheers of the neighborhood kids as one particularly bright, low, and loud firecracker exploded.  Her younger brother looking at her with a cheeky "watch this" expression as he prepared to light a cobbled-together collection of old fireworks that he'd taped together and put into a small pipe to launch.  His uncomprehending, still-excited face as the spark ran along the fuse far too fast and the pipe began to tilt back towards him.  The flash and screams afterwards.  And everything going black once she saw the blood and exposed bone.  Once she realized how bad it might be...

She neatly placed her spoon back on the table and stood up.  'No way I can fucking eat now', she thought.  As she walked out onto the back patio and tossed the now-soggy cereal out into the yard for the local cats to enjoy, she remembered her mom's instructions:

"Look, go home.  Just go home.  You heard the doctor, honey.  He's going to be alright.  They're doing their best.  We won't be able to see him for quite a while.  I'll stay here for now.  Just go home and sleep in your own bed.  Get you mind off of it and come back when you're able."

Clair slammed the patio door shut behind her, furious now.  She understood that her mother wasn't exactly a master of emotional understanding or empathy, but how could she be so fucking stupid?  How could her mom just think that she'd be able to go home and be comfortable knowing her brother was in surgery, having seen what happened to him?  'I'm an adult now, but goddamn, how do I even process this on my own?  How do I just move on with my life?  How can she expect me to just go home, forget all about it, and then get ready for this interview?"

She continued to ruminate and curse her mother's lack of empathy - or at least the kind of empathy Clair expected - as she lazily got ready for her interview.  It was only 5 AM and her interview wasn't until 9, but there wasn't anything else to do and she certainly couldn't go back to sleep.  She was going to put on a frightfully awful dress - she hated dresses - with a pair of shiny black businesslike pumps - which she also loathed - and apply more makeup than usual, and then go spend a couple of hours at the hospital trying to get an update on her brother's situation.  'I'll go ahead and let mom know that I can't handle this on my own while I'm there', she thought.  'She won't care, but I'll let her know'

In her old, grey Civic hatchback with the paint peeling, she barely focused on the road or on driving.  The static-filled dulcet tones of an NPR reporter reciting headlines momentarily calmed her, but she wasn't processing any of the words.  She was just busy thinking of what she could remember from last night's dream.  It was a mess - all she could remember was some boy she barely recognized (but couldn't place) talking to her mother, and her mother suddenly displaying more emotion than Clair had ever seen from her - but she still wasn't able to actually identify the emotion her mother was feeling in the dream.  Something like shock - or confusion - or betrayal - or all of those.  Clair tried in vain to figure out who the boy in the dream was - his face looked very familiar, but she couldn't remember where, other than the dream, she'd seen him. And as for what emotion her mother had been reacting with or what the boy had been telling her mother, she was at a complete loss.  Her eyes flashed upon a sign and her brakes squealed.  Lost in thought, she'd almost missed the exit for the hospital.

The hospital was a tiny rural hospital on the edge of town, a decaying building full of old doctors and young underpaid nurses, kept alive on a shoestring budget despite the exorbitant prices it charged you for the simple privilege of remaining alive.  Clair was sure that her mom wasn't ready for any of the financial burden her brother had just incurred -- at least not on the meager retirement checks and alimony they'd subsisted on since her dad had left.  Walking into the main waiting room, she was mentally prepared to hit her mom hard with three questions:  "How is he?", "When can I see him?", and "You're not going to make me stay at the house by myself for another night".  The last one wasn't a question, but she expected, at the very least, her mother's acknowledgement.  Instead, she was met by the face from her dream - the unfamiliar boy - walking out of an empty waiting room.  She couldn't help but stop in her tracks and stare at him.  "You're Micheal's sister, right?", the boy said, seemingly unphased by her glare.  "Yes", she finally managed to respond.  "He's not here anymore", the boy replied.  

"What?"

"They took him to a hospital in Jacksonville.  He's stable.  Your mom didn't call you and tell you?"

"No..."

"Oh, well.  They left about 30 minutes ago.  He's stable, but your mom's kind of a wreck.  I stayed to meet up with his friend Lisa who wants to ride with me to Jacksonville.  He's going to go into another surgery to try to save his face and they said he'll probably be ready for visitors by later tonight."

'This is absurd', Clair thought.  'How can this random boy know more about my brother's situation than me.  How could my mom be so detached as to not tell me any of this?  And I'll be goddamned if anyone's going to finally visit my brother's hospital room before me'

"You can ride with us if you'd like", the boy offered.

"No, thanks, I actually have to drive to Jacksonville this morning anyways.  I have an interview at 9..."

"Say no more... I guess I'll see you there"

With that, the boy walked past her.  She turned and followed him outside.  "So... who are you?"

"Oh, we've met before I think.  I'm Cavill, Micheal's... we're friends.  I've been here since last night worried sick about him.  I guess your mom wanted you to be home so you wouldn't worry yourself sick like her."

"Fat lot of good that did", Clair replied drearily.  "And yeah, we have met... Micheal just never bothers to introduce his friends to us.  I guess he gets that from mom, the habit of keeping everyone at a distance"

"Cigarette?"  Cavill was holding out a crumpled pack of smokes.  It was odd to think that anyone Micheal hung out with smoked -- to Clair, she couldn't think of her brother as anything but a kid.  Hell, she had a hard time calling herself an "adult"

"No thanks", she replied, waving sheepishly.  

"I quit like a month ago - most on your brother's insistence.  But sitting here waiting last night and stressing out... I just couldn't do it.  I went and bought a pack of smokes.  Micheal would be ashamed of me."

"Don't say that.  I've never known Micheal to be anything but supportive"

"Yeah, but he..."  Cavill's voice trailed off as he began to choke up.  "He's the only person that really ever cared, you know?  And I care about him too.  I don't want to let him down."  A single tear ran down his cheek.

Clair was at a complete loss.  She always came to a complete loss when anyone cried or became vulnerable around her.  'I guess I'm not too unlike my mother', she thought.

"You won't.  You know he talks about you sometimes?  The other day he told me that you're learning guitar and that you're pretty good"

"I'm not, and he knows it.  He just..."

She wasn't sure why Cavill was trailing off now.  She'd met friends of her brother's before, but something was different in the way Cavill talked about his bond with Micheal.  What was it?  

Suddenly, some neurons firing in her brain or some semblance of emotional intelligence came to her, and it made sense.  Months before, Micheal had confessed to her that he was in a relationship but said it was a secret and refused to give her any more details.  It'd annoyed her at the time - she hated secrets in any form and saw them as puzzles or riddles that she needed to solve - but now, with her brother's somewhat-secretive friend quietly crying over a cigarette in front of her, an uncomfortably vulnerable figure, she felt like she was close to unraveling this particular puzzle.  She eyed Cavill again, taking him in.  He was a bit taller than her brother, and thinner.  His hair was golden-brown and jettisoned out from his head at odd angles, like some sort of anime character's.  His face didn't quite match it - soft angles, a small button of a nose, and thin lips.  Blue eyes.  He looked absolutely sad, and she couldn't stand to leave him here on his own.

"You're going to Jacksonville, right?", she said.

"Yeah, but I'm waiting for Lisa, remember?  She's my ride"

"Well, you can ride with me if you want.  I'm going right now."

"That's probably more convenient.  Lisa lives between here and Jacksonville and hasn't even left her house yet".

"Well, I'll make some room in my car.  And I have an interview later on, so I won't be able to give you a ride back until after lunch"

"That's okay, I'm staying at the hospital for the day if I can help it"

Clair looked at Cavill, who'd extinguished his cigarette between his fingers and was starting to walk behind her towards her car.  "Go wash you hands and splash some water on your face", she said.  "I don't want the smell of cigarettes in my car, and besides, you look tired"

Cranking her car, her head disappeared in thought again.  What was the meaning of the dream she'd had the night before?  What kind of secret life had her brother been living?  Who is this Cavill kid she's seen around who's suddenly very attached to her brother?  Why would her mom not tell her that her brother had been taken to a hospital an hour's drive south for surgery?  What was Cavill telling her mom in the dream she'd just had, and why did it make her mom so... upset?  

She couldn't sit there with her thoughts for a second longer, so she reached for the pair of pliers in the center console and used them to twist the metal stub on which her car radio's volume knob had once rested.  The dulcet tones of the NPR announcer now filled the silence:  

"Next on NPR:  We talk to an experimental psychologist about a new study on the phenomenon of apparently precognitive dreams.  Can dreams predict the future?"  

Not even NPR was going to give her a moment of escapism. 

=============================================

This is part one of my unfinished series about a girl named Clair whose dreams begin to mirror reality (sounds fun until it happens to you!), which for now is going to be titled “Clair’s Voyage”.  I started writing a story along these lines, with much less detail, a few years ago until it was apparent that I was writing a longer story than I’d set out to write.  At that time, I just saved the draft but left it unfinished.  Now, I’m adding more details and breaking it out into different parts.  It may become a book by the time I’m done.  Clair, you see, is an aspiring psychiatrist - she loves studying the mind and how it works - but right now she’s just trying to struggle through community college and get a job as a secretary at the local psychiatric hospital.  She’s also trying to struggle with the traumatic events surrounding an eerie July 4th, on which her brother was grievously injured in a scene that played out exactly how it had played out in her nightmare the night before.  With her brother’s boyfriend, Cavill, at her side, she’s about to embark on a journey of discovery and empowerment filled with ups and downs and unspeakable trauma.  So be sure to tune in for the next Part of Clair’s Voyage. 

[emmalineshettelblog]

A Day on the St. Johns River

During daylight hours, there are tons of activities to do on the St. Johns River. Paddle boating, wakeboarding and fishing are all examples of hobbies to do on the river. There are many public ramps throughout Palatka, FL, to start your adventure on the river. This dock is the Elgin Grove Public Boat Ramp, seen from a view of another dock in the neighborhood. The water is safe to swim in, but always watch out for alligators, as they are native to the river.

The St. Johns River is home to many diverse animals, including alligators, manatees and fish to catch. There are over 100 fish species, as well as plants residing in the river. The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida, running through 12 counties, including places near like Palatka and Jacksonville. To be approximate, the river runs 310 miles long. 

The St. Johns River is home to many sunsets, as well. When the day turns to night, alligators begin to come out more, hiding in the creeks along the river. Dating back to the 1500’s, the St. Johns River was discovered. One of the most important facts about the river is the use of steamboats for travel in the 1800’s, when travel ranged from Jacksonville to Palatka.

This is the main river front where fireworks are set off on the 4th of July and the Blue Crab festival is held annually. The Blue Crab festival is the most unique festival, offering vendors and rides; it occurs in Palatka during Memorial Day weekend. In addition, fishing tournaments are held annually around this specific area.

Even when it is nearing nighttime, the St. Johns River has activities to offer; especially during shrimp season, when nighttime is the moment to throw out the net. The transportation aspect of the St. Johns has always been prevalent, especially the fact that residents can take their boats or jetskis to events happening in Palatka.

[tnbc-thoughtsandheadcanons]

The Nightmare Before Christmas: 25 Years Anniversary

Since there are a LOT more things coming out to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary, I thought I’d make a master post to share everything that has and IS going to happen. Obviously there’s still a lot of the year left, so new things are bound to come(predictably in October), but I’ll be updating it as time goes on! Here’s a master post of all the celebrations for TNBC’s 25th anniversary:

The Nightmare Before Christmas Visual Companion

Much like The Film, the Art, the Vision, which was published by Frank Thompson and foreworded by Tim Burton himself ages ago, a new book is going to be released sometime later this year filled with behind-the-scenes content of The Nightmare Before Christmas. It is made by Dave Bossert and is claimed to have material fans have never seen before...Hopefully some information of more recent news will make it in there. (include that Jack/Sally graveyard storyboard scene you COWARDS!)

Showcasing of The Nightmare Before Christmas Tattoo Art

(Continued from above) Dave Bossert is also going to showcase a selection of Nightmare Before Christmas-themed tattoos in two pages in The Nightmare Before Christmas Visual Companion. If you have a TNBC tat, chances are you’ll want to send him something. So if you have a photo or JPEG you’d like to send him of your tattoo, send it to NightmareTattoos@gmail.com. If they pick yours, they’ll get you to sign a release and give you credit. So don’t miss out on that!

The Nightmare Before Christmas Sequel Comic Book: Zero’s Journey

As I’m sure everyone of us has heard by now, there was a released comic book published by TOKYOPOP serving as the “sequel” to The Nightmare Before Christmas. It focuses on Zero getting lost in Christmas Town, and by now only a couple of issues have officially released. They’re published monthly, so be on your watch for a new one as the months go by. It should be available in comic book stores or online somewhere. It’s cute and the art is well done!

The D23 Comic-Con San Diego Panel (July 21st, 2018)

In 2 days from now, the Official Disney Fan Club(D23) is hosting a panel at the San Diego Comic-Con featuring Henry Selick, Anthony Scott, Kelly Asbury, and Edie Ichioka. It’ll be a behind-the-scenes retroactive panel in room 6BCF from 7:45-8:45 P.M. at the San Diego Convention Center. Takes notes if you’re going - we don’t hear much from this part of the cast!

The “Pocket Pop-Up Experience” (July 21st, 2018)

An artistic celebration is going to be hosted at the Davis-Horton House, 410 Island Avenue in San Diego from 8 A.M.-8 P.M. On the 13th minute of every hour, they will be handing out special Nightmare merchandise to lucky people in line. Go if you want a chance at merchandise or if you’re interested in this celebration. If you have any time after this, try and make it to the D23 panel!!

Merchandise...LOTS of Merchandise.

Nightmare has always been exploited. The same thing will be happening for its 25th anniversary. New merchandise has been released, including action figures, a new special edition DVD, collectibles, statues, ornaments, posters, calendars, snow globes, etc. More merchandise is being released for the Resident characters, so if you’re interested in that, keep an eye out! These are gradually popping out in stores as we speak.

Cinestory / The Story of the Movie In Comics

There will be a Cinestory comic published by Joe Books LTD releasing for the anniversary, featuring rare concept art from the Disney archives and Tim Burton. The publisher is also releasing a graphic novel adaption on July 31st, 2018 called “The Nightmare Before Christmas: The Story of the Movie In Comics”. These will be available in stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon, and are available for preorders right now.

Cinema Screenings and Orchestras

Yes, it turns out that some cinemas ARE returning The Nightmare Before Christmas for its 25th Anniversary. Street Food Cinemas of King Gillette Ranch in Malibu, California will be hosting an event on September 29th(X). The Florida Theatre in Jacksonville will have a 7:00-8:30 P.M. screening on July 22nd, 2018. The Paramount Theatre will also have a showing on August 5, 2018 at 1:00 P.M in Austin and October 15, 2018 at 6:15 P.M in Aurora.

The Pittsburgh Symphony will also be playing Danny Elfman’s score at Heinz Hall on October 18th at 7:30 P.M(X). The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra will be performing the score at the Powell Hall on November 3rd(7:00 P.M.) and 4th(2:00 P.M.)(X). There will also be a screening in Chicago at the Auditorium Theatre on October 31 with the Chicago Philarmonic performing the score. This event welcomes attendees to dress up and celebrate in the lobby. Tickets will go on sale on July 27th at noon here.

Keep an ear out from your local cinemas in case they decide to screen Nightmare sometime soon, as well as any orchestrated events near you. 

If any of the information is incorrect or if you have any questions, just let me know. I expect further events and celebrations to come, this is just what I know of right now. Have fun, everyone!

[slyke25]

2002-2008

Before I dive into the shows I’ve covered on this site, I’ll give you a ittle background on the events that led up to it.  I grew up in Indiana, about an hour from Chicago, and the first concert I ever attended was at Chicago’s Vic Theatre (capacity 1,000) to see House of Pain (don’t judge).  My friends and I got there early and secured a spot close to the stage.  The opening band soon came out, and to our surprise, they absolutely killed it.  That unknown band was Rage Against the Machine.  In hindsight, I was likely chasing the high of that first show by attending so many concerts over the years.  I actually put together a short post on that show a while back, which you can read here.

During the 90′s, I would attend a handful of shows each year, and managed to see bands like Radiohead, Blur, The Cure, Smashing Pumpkins, Bob Mould, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, several Lollapaloozas, U2, Beastie Boys, Oasis, etc.  I successfully managed to save about 90% of my concert stubs, which makes it a bit easier to remember.

I moved to Boston in the fall of ‘02 (by way of New Jersey), and found myself in a city with no shortage of music venues and concerts, as Boston is an incredible concert market due to all the colleges.  This was also a great time for music, especially indie rock, which I became partial to, and went to several shows at the Paradise, Great Scott, Middle East, and TT the Bear’s Place.

I saw plenty of shows during this 2002-’08 era, both, big and small, but the larger ones (Neil Young, Billy Joel, Elton John, Oasis, Springsteen, Tom Petty, Phish, Peter Gabriel, Simon & Garfunkel, etc.) didn’t quite have the same feeling as the smaller, more intimate shows.  The bands that played the smaller, sweatier clubs had something to prove and played their hearts out, leaving the audience with a lasting impression, so they could hopefully make it to the next level.  It was no surprise that I liked those shows the best.  

In 2007, I was armed with a nice little Canon SD1000 Powershot point & shoot camera that took fairly decent photos for the time.  Luckily the audio wasn’t too bad either, as many of the other digital cameras seemed to struggle with recording bass, but this little camera actually worked well for recording live concert videos.

In October of ‘07, I recorded and uploaded my first video to YouTube.  It was The National singing “Fake Empire” at an extremely tiny Boston bar.  Throughout the years, I managed to record over 600 videos in less than ten years, and they often became a staple of my reviews, and was something most of the other music blogs weren’t doing at the time.

For General Admission shows, I would always arrive early for a spot against the stage, so it just kind of made sense to film a song or two, as nobody was in front of me.  I also enjoyed recording because of the challenge; I only had one shot at recording the song.  I made no edits and needed to have a steady hand.

You can view all of my videos at my YouTube channel here.

Below are a few shows from ‘02-’08 (prior to my music blog) that stuck with me, and ultimately inspired me to start mu music site in ‘09.

Bright Eyes at the Harvard Sanders Theatre (’05) - This was during the I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning tour.  The show was sold out, but I managed to score a last minute ticket on Craigslist.  The Sanders Theatre is an incredible venue, and the show was just as beautiful.  I found a recording of the D.C show at the 9:30 Club (a few days later) via NPR here.

Ryan Adams the Hampton Beach Casino (’05) - I’d been a huge fan of Ryan Adams since his ‘01 debut solo album, Gold, which really seemed to connect with me, but I wouldn’t see him live until two years later in ‘03 at the Paradise Rock Club.  His shows were notoriously hit or miss due to drugs and alcohol, and in ‘05 he released the jam heavy album Cold Roses with The Cardinals. 

I actually ended up meeting Ryan before this Hampton Beach show, which was kind of a big deal for me because he was my favorite artist at the time.  I just happened to be strolling around Hampton Beach earlier in the day, and stumbled upon him at a tie-dye shirt store (he actually bought one and wore it at the show).  

Ryan, who often plays improv songs, played an incredible song to close the show.  “Beachfront Town” is a sad, yet beautiful, ballad about how Hampton Beach reminded him of back home (Jacksonville NC).  Here are a few posts I made about this show.

Small review and a few photos

"Beachfront Town” 

A recording of the entire show can be heard here.  

Ryan Adams at the Somerville Theatre (’07) - As I said before, Ryan Adams shows were kind of hit or miss due to drugs and alcohol, and I walked into this show with such expectations.  However, this night was different, and would be the best Ryan Adams show I would ever see.

I had a 4th row center seat, and remember seeing a suit-wearing Ryan Adams walk on stage.  His singing and playing were flawless that night, and when he changed the lyrics of “Peaceful Valley”  from “Up there in heaven with a bottle of wine” to “bottle of diet Sprite”, I just couldn’t help but smile.  He appeared to be sober, and he and the band never sounded better.  I was truly proud of him.  

Someone actually recorded the show, which you can listen to here.

Josh Ritter at Club Passim (’07)  - I fist saw Josh back in ‘06 at the intimate Narrows Center in Fall River.  I quickly became a fan after hearing his newly released album, The Animal Years.

He played two shows at Club Passim in ‘07 to benefit a friend that was ill with cancer, and I ended up recording four videos that night.

”Good Man”

“Monster Ballads”

“Empty Hearts”

“Bandits”

Bon Iver at the MFA (’08) -  I remember listening to their debut album For Emma, Forever Ago in February of ‘08 and was blown away by how incredible it sounded.  I checked to see if they were playing and live shows, and indeed they were.  They were playing the Middle East (upstairs) in Cambridge, but it was very sold out, and many people were posting on Craigslist looking for one.

However, it wasn’t long before I got to see them live, and in July of ‘08, they put on an amazing display of music at the MFA.  They basically played For Emma, Forever Ago in full since it was their only album at the time, and they sounded flawless.

I’d see them one more time in December of ‘08 at the Wilbur Theatre.  You can watch “Wolves” and “Skinny Love” from that show.  Fun fact, and unknown (even to me) Tallest Man On Earth opened.

MGMT at Great Scott (’08) - I actually recorded a couple videos at this show.  Feel free to check out “Time To Pretend” and “Kids”.  During “Time To Pretend”, I’m holding the camera very still, but the footage appears to be slightly bouncy.  That’s because the floor is giving ever so slightly, due to everyone bouncing up and down.  It was crazy.  Fun fact - Yeasayer opened.

Wolf Parade at the Paradise Rock Club (’08) - This was actually my second time seeing the band (first time in ‘06, same venue), and their album Apologies To the Queen Mary is an absolute favorite of mine.  I ended up recording six videos at this show, and my favorite was “This Heart’s On Fire”, which is crazy intense.  100% Rock & Roll.

Langhore Slim at Middle East Upstairs (2008) - I always looked forward to his shows.  They were intimate, intense, and genuinely good times.  Not many people heard of him at the time, and I recall two guys I’d see at every early Langhore Slim show.  These dudes were super fans.  They knew all the songs and cheered louder than anyone.  I recorded a couple videos from this show - “In the Midnight” and “Restless”.  Notice The band was a trio back then, with Paul was on bass.

The National at Paddy O’s Pub (’08) - The album Boxer had just come out, and I believe Miller Light sponsored this show at the very small Faneuil Hall pub.  It doesn’t get much more intimate than this, and I shot my first video ever that night, “Fake Empire”

The one that got away - I’l share a little story about the time I headed to the Orpheum Theatre in ‘02 in search of a ticket to a sold out show.  I had good success scoring single tickets way below face value outside of large venues close to showtime.  I recall seeing Simon & Garfunkel at the Garden in ‘02 for $10 ($100 face value), and Peter Gabriel for $20 (also $100 face).  For some stupid reason, I thought I’d have the same luck for David Bowie who was playing the Orpheum that night.  I managed to find someone selling a single ticket for face value, which was $75, but I has no idea tickets were that much before I headed down to the theater.  I recently moved to Boston and didn’t have much money, so $75 was a lot, and I unfortunately had to pass.  I told myself, no big deal, I’ll catch him next time.  Sadly, there was no next time.  

While living in Boston, it seemed each year I’d attend more shows than the last, and by 2009, I felt the need to create a music website.  In the days to come, I’ll share some of the most memorable shows I saw, with a post for each year (’09-’16).

[wsmith215]

California board passes emergency regulations for boxing to resume this summer

5:58 PM ET

Steve KimESPN

The California State Athletic Commission passed emergency regulations Friday with an eye to resuming combat events in the summer months.

The commission met via video conference Friday morning and its guidelines were sent to the California Office of Administrative Law.

“When that process is finished, we’ll start,” said Andy Foster, the CSAC’s executive director.

Among the key parts of these regulations, according to Foster, is that, “the fighters will be tested between two and three weeks before their event for the COVID-19 virus. If they’re clear, we’ll accept them on the bout card and we’ll approve the fights if they meet the other criteria.

“Then two days before they travel, they’ll fill out a questionnaire and when they get to the hotel, they’ll be isolated and tested again with their fight camps. Everybody involved in the promotion will be tested on that day,” continued Foster. “Anybody that the promoter deems ‘essential’ to their promotion — and we approve them to be there, and that could be media — anybody that is in that building that’s part of the promotion is going to need to be tested.”

Foster acknowledged that weighing heavily on the committee’s minds was Jacare Souza, who was scratched from the UFC 249 card in Jacksonville, Florida, on the weekend of May 9 for testing positive for the coronavirus.

“We learned from that event, and I want to be clear, that’s not to put down the UFC one bit, they had a great plan and everything,” he said. “We learned by watching that, just how contagious this virus could be. So we want to mitigate that risk.”

Everyone working corners will be forced to wear a mask and surgical gloves at ringside, but there will be no limit on how many people can be in the facility on fight night.

“I don’t plan on doing that,” said Foster, who explained, “because there’s a financial interest. I mean, every person that the promoter puts in there, they are responsible for testing, the promoters are paying for the testing and for the accommodations. So you’re talking about a lot of money for each person. So they’re going to have a vested interest to run with only ‘essential’ personnel.”

It’s not clear who will have the first show in California, but Eric Gomez, the president of Golden Boy Promotions, told ESPN, “Our plan, right now, we would like to go July 4th, and we’re working towards that. We’re doing a lot of work behind the scenes to ensure that all the right guidelines and protocols are going to be followed, and that the commission is going to be satisfied with all our efforts.”

Gomez, whose company is looking to do a show at the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio, California, is looking at other possible states to stage cards, but for Los Angeles-based Golden Boy, California makes the most logistic sense.

“Production-wide, it’s easier, it helps us because we’re not hauling stuff all over the country and there’s a lot of production companies here in California,” Gomez said.

Smaller outfits like Thompson Boxing, which has been running club shows since 2001, say they are ready to resume operations with these new rules.

“The moment that they say ‘go’ — we’re ready,” Thompson vice president Alex Camponovo said. “We’re going to run shows without the public most likely at Omega Products [in Corona, California] indoors, with all the guidelines and procedures that we have to do.”

Foster pointed out that, “these particular regulations will go away when the state of emergency ends. So the commission can vote to make it go away, and it will end.”

Boxing has been at a standstill throughout the world since mid-March. Foster says he has received numerous calls during the past couple of months from those in the business wondering when they could start scheduling shows.

“We’ve got to do something for the industry, we’ve got to get it up and rolling,” Foster said. “But we’ve got to do it in a safe away. We’ve got to do that in a thoughtful way, and we did that today by passing a regulation package where at least it fits the ‘Phase 3’ resiliency road map, where sports can resume without live audiences.

“This is a way for that to happen.”

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[theonslowbeat]

We are one day away from America’s biggest holiday, celebration preparations and locations are being determined if they haven’t been by now by our coastal citizens. Just in case you are one of those who is undecided, The Onslow Beat has put together a list of options for you to choose from in celebrating, spending time with your family and friends.

Independence Day falls on a Thursday this year, which usually gives for a long weekend for most military and some government offices.

Independence Day happenings through all 767 miles of Onslow County.  Before we get into the excitement, “Safety first!”

With the approach of the July 4th weekend, Onslow County Sheriff Hans Miller asks all citizens to join him in making this Fourth of July holiday period a happy and enjoyable one for all.

Traditionally during the July 4th holiday, our highways experience one of the highest traffic flows of the year. The Sheriff reminds all residents to follow these safety tips:

• Always shift your attention every few seconds, constantly scanning the road ahead and behind you. Never blankly stare ahead nor fix your gaze on one point on the road.

• When passing an automobile, always glance at the ground beside the front wheel of the car you intend to pass. You will know instantly if the car is about to veer – giving you an extra few seconds to respond.

• You should pull out into the opposite lane of traffic when passing while you are still well behind the car in front. This should give you some time and space to build up speed and will enable you to pull back into your own lane should the need arise. Never cut abruptly out of your lane into the opposite lane when passing.

• Always signal your intentions with your brake lights, turn signals, horn and/or headlights so that other drivers will see you well before you change course.

• Drivers should always “aim high” in steering. That is, you should glance frequently at points well ahead of you. Not only will this help your steering, but it will also help you check the position of vehicles in front of you as well as on-coming ones.

• Never follow too close. Remember that, as your speed increases, it takes you substantially longer to stop. Also remember that it’s good to have an extra cushion of space in front of you if you’re being tail-gated, on a slippery road, or in low visibility conditions.

“Lastly, I would remind all motorists to practice the Golden Rule when driving. Be courteous and tolerant of other drivers. Please don’t get angry with bad drivers or reckless ones – just get out of their way,” Sheriff Miller said in closing, “Let’s make this summer a safe one on the roads in Onslow County.”

WATER SAFETY:

If no lifeguard is on duty, do not let children swim unless they are accompanied by a responsible adult who knows lifesaving techniques and first aid.

Post CPR instructions and directions to call 9-11 or your local emergency number in the pool area.

Look around the pool area to be certain lifesaving devices are readily available for emergency use.

Be sure covers are installed on all drains of swimming pools and wading pools. The suction created by the pool’s circulating pumps can be very dangerous unless it is reduced by covers.

If a child is missing, check the pool first. Go to the edge of the pool and scan the entire pool, bottom and surface, as well as the surrounding pool area.

 To reduce the risk of eye, ear, nose or throat infection from contaminated water, swim only in poos in which water quality is properly maintained. The water should appear crystal clear, be continuously circulated and be maintained a t a level that allows free overflow into the gutter or skimmer. There should not be a strong odor of ammonia or chlorine.

Take frequent breaks (about once an hour) where everyone gets out of the water, drinks water, reapplies water resistant sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and rests.

BEACH SAFETY:

Swim in a supervised, marked area with a lifeguard present, and swim with others. Never swim alone.

If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Once you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore.

Watch out for the “dangerous too’s”- too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.

Look for water that is reasonably clear and free of floating materials and odors. Avoid swimming at beaches where there are large populations of ducks, geese or gulls. The waste produced by these birds causes high bacteria levels in the water.

Look for movement in the water; it helps keep the water clean. Do not swim in stagnant or still water.

Do not swim at any beach right after a heavy rain. Runoff following a heavy rain may result in a high bacteria level.

When diving at a beach, exercise extreme caution. Beach water is not as clear as water in a pool, so underwater obstructions may not be visible.

Avoid having beach water in your mouth or nose.

Sheriff Miller states, “Following these precautions will help the children and citizens of Onslow County stay safe and healthy this holiday weekend and throughout the summer.”

  CELEBRATIONS: 

Town of Surf City kicks off Independence Day on July 3rd

Wednesday (Independence Eve) July 3, 2019 kicks off the celebrations in Surf City, NC in Sound side Park under the new high rise bridge.

Ocean City Jazz Fest Kicks Off on July 4th

July 4-7 beginning at 5pm. Celebrating its tenth year, the Ocean City Jazz Festival is held in historic Ocean City in North Topsail Beach. Gates open at 4pm. Advance ticket prices are $50-$60 for one day or $160 for all three days. Tickets at the gate increase by $5. Event details here. 

Website: www.oceancitync.com

Email: info@oceancitync.com or ocbcc@hotmail.com

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ocean–City-NC/232144543482506?ref=hl OC Jazz Fest Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/OceanCityJazzFestival?ref=hl OC Jazz Fest Website: www.oceancityjazzfest.com

Surf City Pier Kids Fishing Tournament on July 4th

The Surf City Pier opens for a free day of fishing for youngsters age 16 and under in a fun, educational and safe environment. Pre-registration is REQURIED for this event.  Call 910-328-3521 for more details.

36th ANNUAL ONSLOW COUNTY FREEDOM FESTIVAL, JACKSONVILLE, NC

HOLLY RIDGE LIBERTY FESTIVAL, JULY 4

Enjoy firework festivities twice! One on Topsail Island, July 3 at Soundside Park and two, at Holly Ridge Liberty Festival, July 4, on the mainland!    Facebook Page Event Information.

BASE FEST CAMP LEJEUNE

From the MCCS website, this years event is closed to the public and only open to DoD cardholders and their guests.

Who Can Attend

Open to DoD Identification Cardholders and their guests only. The event will not be open to the general public, meaning base access will not be provided to unsponsored guests for the event.

Inclement Weather

In case of inclement weather on July 4, the event, including the fireworks, will be canceled and will not be rescheduled.

Photo Cred MCCS Camp Lejeune

Photo Cred MCCS Camp Lejeune

    REMEMBER while you are out celebrating and enjoying the festivities, be alert and aware of your surroundings. In the event of a crime, citizens can help our public servants reach justice swiftly by sharing information.

Crime Stoppers offers cash reward of up to $2,500 for information that is deemed of value or assistance to law enforcement. Information can also be anonymously texted via Text-A-Tip by typing TIP4CSJAX and your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Callers to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous and never have to reveal their identity.

Independence Day Celebrations kick off today in the Coastal Region: Where to go and how to be safe We are one day away from America's biggest holiday, celebration preparations and locations are being determined if they haven't been by now by our coastal citizens.

[discoverjacksonvilleflorida]

4th Of July Events In Florida https://t.co/UPsnLsuAVI

4th Of July Events In Florida pic.twitter.com/UPsnLsuAVI

— Discover Jacksonville Florida (@DiscoverJax) January 9, 2019

from Twitter https://twitter.com/DiscoverJax January 09, 2019 at 06:04AM http://twitter.com/DiscoverJax/status/1082971486258954243

[hwwswebtv]

Time Travel in your Mind with Author Carrie Pack interview on the Hangin With Web Show

We're talking with Award Winning Contemporary Author Carrie Pack​ today!! Host GW Pomichter​ talks with Carrie during the I HEART BOOKS Signing Event​ in Jacksonville, Florida​ (hosted by the Florida Writers Association​) to discuss her time travel series, the writing process and so much more! Take a few moments on this 4th of July and come Hang With us!!

A big thanks and Happy Independence Day to our friends & partners who help support the show and the fantastically talented creators we share with the World Wide Web, including F-Kenneth Taylor​ of Some'n Unique Magazine, LLC​, Space Coast Comixx​, Famous Faces & Funnies​, Yvonne Mason​ the lovely and fun host of the radio show OFF the CHAIN​ and Krypton Radio​!

[onpointwildlife]

Vero Beach Vs Port St Lucie

Contents

Sat dec 15

Defending back-to-back state champion

Who are trying

From for its year-round cultural close

Inside the loews hotel

PSL BOUND in Port Saint Lucie, Florida said: As far as the new Lab, You may be ..... Move to Sebastion, Vero, Jenson Beach or Stuart, Not PSL or Fort Pierce)!

Asked by Gerry Figueroa, Port Saint Lucie, FL • sat dec 15, 2012 .... You can enjoy drive to Vero Beach, Sebastian and the pleasures of the Treasure Coast in  ...

Home / Select Cities / Comparing Vero Beach, FL vs. Port St. Lucie, FL ... Vero Beach is 10% less densely populated than Port St. Lucie. People are 22.7% more ...

Shorecrest Prep, ppd. Southeast vs. Palmetto, ppd. to Aug 27th. St. John Neumann vs. Keswick Christian, ppd. to Aug 28th. St. Stephen's Episcopal vs. Windermere Prep, ppd. Tampa Bay Tech vs. Armwood, ppd. to Aug 28th. Tampa …

(Video by J..C. Carnahan) The defending back-to-back state champion West Orange softball team defeated Port Orange Spruce Creek 3-0 on Friday to advance to the Class 9A state tournament in Vero Beach for the third time in a row. …

... from the Treasure Coast News. Home ; ... PORT ST. LUCIE — The Port Saint Lucie High School JROTC cadets were excited to ... Vero Beach girls finish 5th at ...

Lake Placid vs. St. John Neumann, ppd. North Fort Myers vs. Riverdale, susp. Northside Christian vs. First Baptist, ppd. to Aug 27. Ocala Trinity Catholic vs. Admiral Farragut, ppd. Palmetto Ridge vs. Lehigh, ppd. Port Charlotte vs. Lemon …

Sep 4, 2006 ... Top things to do in Port Saint Lucie · See all ... Vero Beach Press Journal will link you to Tc Palm & the St. Lucie jobs section. Good luck.

July 4th Fireworks in Jensen Beach, Stuart FL, Fort Pierce, Port St Lucie, Jupiter, Vero Beach and the Treasure Coast. 4th of July Schedule of Festivals, Celebrations and Fireworks including Shuckers Fireworks on the Beach, live entertainment, events, live music, bands and festivals including Jensen Beach, Stuart, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Port St ...

Call Port St. Lucie estate planning attorney Robert Kulas at 772-398-0720 for help with wills, living trusts, and Medicaid services.

Finished 6-of-12 shooting for 19 points and six rebounds in A-Sun championship game vs. Jacksonville ... softball team defeated Port Orange Spruce Creek 3-0 on Friday to advance to the Class 9A state tournament in Vero Beach for the …

Photo Galleries for Indian ... PrepZone on the Road visits Port St. Lucie high school; vero vero beach fl Beach City Council looks at ... Jensen Beach High School vs. St. Lucie ...

Sebastian Fl Things To Do Contents With more fun-filled things Off every day Almost 40 years For all ages She was last seen wearing The loews hotel We know that the people who are trying to do their work … to make it clear that … Museums & Entertainment. McKee Botanical Garden 350 US 1 Vero Beach, FL 32962 Tel: Vero Beach Restaurants Contents Over vero beach Animals. some courses Enrichment for the For july interpretive loop According to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, the husband of Assunta (Susy) Tomassi last saw her Friday, March 16, at the Quilted Giraffe Restaurant near the South Vero Plaza. She was last seen wearing black pants, a white and blue Sebastian Fl Hotels Contents Beautiful breathtaking beach holiday getaway. reserve Which are both Service recorded over Vero beach from for its year-round cultural close to 10,000 succulent oysters are expected to be served at Friday’s Oyster Bash at the Lure Fishbar inside the loews hotel … does serve a variety of Florida oysters, but they’re from the east

Original Site Here: Vero Beach Vs Port St Lucie

from On Point Wildlife Removal - (321) 423-2713 - Feed https://onpointwildlife.com/indian-river-county/vero-beach-vs-port-st-lucie/

[isthespiceoflife]

H4thOJ!

Fireworks? Never a bad idea on the 4th, esp in Jersey City right on the water!Did I mention Snoop Dog’s performing? Yep Ummm...but if it’s too played out...how about pool party/bbq? Always in season! Catch Brasstracks (DJ set) @Dream Hotel on a Happy 4th, if you’ve never partied -- compliments Corona Electric Beach, like it’s your LAST.

On NOW, “Represent: Hip-Hop Photography” at the Smithsonian (in D.C.), running ‘til May 5, 2019. U got time!

Opening exhibit reception for artist Olimpia Zagnoli’s “Cuore Di Panna”, May 25 (this Friday) in LA @HVW8 Gallery, RSVP.

It goes -- Fall, Winter, Spring... Summer! Well, U all know if U lived thru NY’s winter, how harsh weird it was. We’re in 80+ degree weather in Spring, yet there seemed to be NO TRANSITION. Which means, let’s get out-side, I mean right here in NY! Riis Park Beach anyone? There’s been so much going on nationally n’ internationally, from Kanye’s ‘free thought’ as a precursor to promote his latest music, NBA playoffs is heating up, then there’s the ever-revolving media circus surrounding this madman, not to mention his staff. Ummm...what else? So much going on, I need a RED BULL! See some below beats, if U may -- including some treats rockin’ from Cali, to JA. And don’t forget, Cinco De Mayo this weekend passed, esp if you’re not Mexican!

The WORLD CUP 2018 hits Russia this summer, June 14 to be exact is kick-off/opening ceremony. Don’t be surprised to see this symbol instead of yesteryear’s “Bolting”, every time someone from the African diaspora scores, celebrating ‘black excellence’ n’ living out loud, the ‘wakanda’ dream!

From Side Hobby, to Cash Flow: Shooting for Brands! This Saturday, May 5 (don’t worry you can drink after U elevate your photography career) in NYC! 

Art150 = Jersey City -- so venture outta ya ‘hood this weekend, n’ hit up the JC!

Not to be missed, in Red Hook (yes, Brooklyn), the “1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair,” kicks off TODAY (5/4-5/6)!

Tonight’s your last chance to catch the Grace Jones flick, “Bloodlight & Bami” @BAM.

U won’t wanna miss this (n’ no that’s not Jazzie B from Soul II Soul, it’s Comrade Cav)! UK II BK, going down @Black Flamingo in W’Burg w/DJ Misbehaviour, tomorrow Fri, May 4.

Wait ya turn boy!? Missed that? Then go to this “Everyday Afrique” (Memorial Day) @Output!

Schomburg Talks: Carnival traditions in the African Diaspora thru the lens of T&T. On June 20th, “Consecrating the Consequence -- Masquerade, Performance n’ Spirituality in Carnival” happens @Schomburg Center for Research in BC, from 6:30-9p. RSVP.

After almost a year after a mishap in immigration/passport issues, this tour is finally on n’ happening. Tricky is here in the U.S., catch him as he promotes his latest 2017 Ununiform album, if U can (below dates)!

5/3 - New York City, NY @ Irving Plaza - Tickets 5/5 - Detroit, MI @ Magic Stick - Tickets 5/6 - Chicago, IL @ Bottom Longue - Tickets 5/7 - Minneapolis, MN @ 7th Street Entry - Tickets 5/9 - Denver, CO @ Marquis - Tickets 5/12 - Seattle, WA @ Neumos - Tickets 5/13 - Portland, OR @ Doug Fir Lounge - Tickets 5/14 - Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre - Tickets 5/16 - San Francisco, CA @ Mezzanine - Tickets 5/17 - San Diego, CA @ Music Box - Tickets 5/18 - Los Angeles, CA @ Fonda Theatre - Tickets

Yea, this May 10th David Bowie event @BK Museum, will soon sell off! A Music video binge on some of Bowie’s best.

Celebrity photographer & director Markus Klinko presents: “2000s” -- an exhibit open to the public (June 14-30), @Mouche Gallery.

X Gallery and EnFoco join together to present “Queer Eye” -- a photographic artistic exhibition celebrating LGBTQ Pride month, opening June 1-30 w/an artist (Lola Flash) meet n’ greet on June 14.

Join these two house music master DJs (Chicago’s Roy Davis, Jr. + France’s Franck Roger) in Paris @Glazart, June 9. Peep all the invite info, and no I don’t have flight info haa!

Cuco’s Tour Dates:

5/5-6 - Pomona, CA @ The Glass House

5/26-27 - Cleveland Square Park, TX @ Neon Desert Music Festival 

6/1-3 - Randall's Island, NY @ Governors Ball

7/21-22 - Exposition Park, LA @ FYF Fest

8/2-5 - Grand Park, Chicago @ Lollapalooza

8/3-5 - Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal @ Osheaga Festival

8/10 - Los Angeles, CA @ The Shrine

8/10-12 - Golden Gate Park, SF @ Outside Lands

A rare happening, Fishbone’s on tour (see dates below)!

Thu, May 24/18 - Pioneertown, CA - Pappy & Harriet's Fri, May 25/18 - Las Vegas, NV - Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival Sat, Jun 23/18 - San Diego, CA - 91X Beer Festival Fri, Jun 29/18 - Los Angeles, CA - Levitt Pavilion, Downtown LA Sat, Jul 14/18 - Ventura, CA - Surf Rodeo Festival Sat, Jul 28/18 - Tokyo, Japan - Fuji Rock Festival Thu, Aug 23/18 - Silver Spring, MD - Fillmore Fri, Aug 24/18 - Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Bowl Sat, Aug 25/18 - Worchester, MA - Palladium 

BRIC’s Opening Night Concert n’ Gala feat. Common, hits us June 5. Don’t sleep, it’s FREE. It just sounds (n’ he looks) fancy!

Annually, most equate summer in Europe n’ the U.S. to...? Yes, outdoor reggae festivals! And this one’s been growing bigger n’ stronger each year, in Monterey. California Roots Music & Arts Festival is hitting 9-years old, w/a line-up that’s special.

Protoje has a new LP (A Matter of Time), pushing “No Guarantee” n’ is on tour w/Chronixx, see dates below!

MAY 24, 2018 - SUBTERRANEAN - CHICAGO, IL - BUY TICKETS MAY 25, 2018 - SUMMER CAMP FESTIVAL - CHILLICOTHE, IL - BUY TICKETS MAY 26, 2018 - UNION STAGE - WASHINGTON, DC - BUY TICKETS MAY 27, 2018 - CONEY ISLAND AMPHITHEATER - BK, NY - BUY TICKETS

Awwww...that’s Ziggy Marley w/his lil’ ‘Ziggy’, he’s going on tour -- to promote his latest Rebellion Rises, see dates below:

UPCOMING NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES:

Dates:                                   City:                                                       Venue:

6/8/18                                   Napa, CA                                           Uptown 

6/10/18                                Carmel, CA                                         Sunset Center

6/12/18                                Jacksonville, OR                                Britt Pavilion

6/13/18                                Seattle, WA                                        Seattle Zoo

6/14/18                                Portland, OR                                      Portland Zoo

6/16/18                                Kamas, UT                                           DeJoria Ctr

6/17/18                                Winter Park, CO                                 Hideaway Park

6/18/18                                Aspen, CO                                           Aspen

6/19/18                                Albuquerque, NM                 Villa Hispana Outdoor

6/20/18                                Phoenix, AZ                                        Van Buren

6/22/18                                Santa Ynez, CA                                  Chumash

6/23/18                                Sacramento, CA                                 Ace of Spades

6/24/18                                San Francisco, CA                             Sigmund Stern

8/23/18                               Bellvue, CO                                  Mishawaka

9/1/18                                   Vienna, VA                                         Wolf Trap

+UPCOMING EUROPEAN TOUR DATES!

It’s incredible how fast this movement grew into something actually cool, over just a few years. It WAS poorly organized, poorly attended n’ pathetically not a true reflection of the carnival zest from Trinidad, representing in LA. But that’s recently changed, also incorporating other cultures from across the globe! Don’t miss from June 21-24 in H’wood, the Hollywood Carnival & Parade + ‘nuff activities surrounding this better soca-infused weekend of LA Carnival’s non-stop bachannal!

Hop on, but don’t hop off ‘til it docks. You’re invited, btw...this is a one-time only summer event, don’t lapse.

If you’re performing at one of Brooklyn’s coolest venues, National Sawdust, there’s something really cool about you. And that’s why U should check Underground System on Sat, June 16 @7p. Hopefully tix are still left!? If not, there’s 2 other upcoming shows (see below) too!

Feeling a lil’ nostalgia living in NYC, for the Pacific Ocean, Venice Beach n’ West Coast Gangstarr rap? @Project Parlor in BK, every 3rd Saturday, from 3p-8p, Str8 West Coastin’ got ya ‘chronic’ needs!

Above, catch the duo -- Adrian Younge + Ali Shaheed Muhammad aka The Midnight Hour w/band in NYC on Weds, June 20 @Manderley Bar (McKittrick Hotel). And below, back in their home-base of LA, catch them on Saturday, June 23 @Lodge Room. These shows should be a top priority, if music is your thing, ya feel me?

This year, Reggae Sumfest organizers are really kicking up some dust in branding this year’s festival (July 15-22 in Montego Bay), to be their best yet. For instance, it has now expanded to 8 days of real authentic Jamaican entertainment n’ food, amongst other forms of entertaining one’s self ;-) 

See lineup + schedule below.

Sun. July 15   Sumfest Colour-Fest Beach Party @Tropical Bliss Beach | Doors Open: 3pm | (Ticketed)

Mon. July 16 Sumfest Street Dance @ Hip Strip, MoBay | Gates Open: 7pm | (Free)

Tues. July 17 All White Party @ Pier One Restaurant & Bar | Doors Open: 8pm | (Ticketed)

Wed. July 18 The Blitz “All Black” Party Feat. Safaree and Stefflon Don @ (Venue TBD) | Doors Open: 8pm | (Ticketed) 

Thu. July 19 The Inspire Awards @ Iberostar Hotel | 5pm-9pm | (Invitation Only) 

Thu. July 19 Reggae Sumfest Presents: Irish & Chin's World Clash 20th Anniversary @ Pier One Event Center | Doors Open: 8pm | (Ticketed) Tony Matterhorn, Mighty Crown, Ricky Trooper and Pink Panther!

Fri. July 20 Sumfest Symposium @ Montego Bay Conference Center | Time TBD | (Free) 

Fri. July 20 Sumfest Festival Night 1 @ Catherine Hall Event Centre | Doors Open: 7pm | (Ticketed) Popcaan, Aidonia, Bounty Killer, Sizzla, Spice, Tommy Lee Sparta, Agent Sasco, Ding Dong, I-Octane, Stonebwoy, Harry Toddler, Yanique, D-Major, Kemar Highcon, Dance Expressions, Govana, Tosh Alexander, Shano, Jah Fabio, Kim Nain, Rygin King, Vanzo, G Don V, Press Kay plus special guest stars 

Sat. July 21 Sumfest Festival Night 2@ Catherine Hall Event Centre | Doors Open: 7pm | (Ticketed) Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Beres Hammond, Maxi Priest, Cham, Capleton, Raging Fyah, Jesse Royal, J Boog, Fantan Mojah, Keznamdi, Empress Ayeola, Naomi Cowan, Jah Dore, D’Yani, Stushi, plus special guest stars.

And everyone in NYC -- young n’ old, has to hit up at least one of these, come summertime. See below, or FULL line-up here.

[opuleancejax-blog]

News update: July 3rd and 4th are now available for booking. A client unfortunately had to cancel out her event. Book Opuleance Luxury Design Studio, LLC for your next event! Email: info@opuleance.com Look at our website: www.opuleance.com #july #2018 #booknow #opuleanceluxurydesignstudio #jacksonville #florida #july4th #july3 #party #eventplanner #design #studio (at Opuleance Luxury Design Studio)

[shirleenmarx-blog]

Properties On the market In Jacksonville, Jacksonville Seaside, ICW, Arlington, Southside,.

Landlords must adjust to laws and regulation on the federal, provincial and native government levels. Offers FREE help together with counseling; recommendation; and representation in court to low-earnings folks in such areas as eligibility; reduction; or termination of authorities well being benefits; family legislation; client regulation; landlord-tenant issues; Section 8 and public housing (including denials); immigration. No parking of automobiles of any kind on the streets or parking areas inside the event shall be permitted besides as set forth in Guidelines and Regulations adopted by the Board pursuant to Section 12.03 of this Declaration. Abstract. This section gives that the newly-added provision regarding an association's withdrawal from a merged widespread interest neighborhood will apply to communities existing prior to July 1, 1992 (pre-CCIOA associations). Unfortunately, residents’ dealings with condominium and homeowners’ associations can lead to disputes. In 2006, the AARP voiced concern that homeowners associations pose a danger to the monetary welfare of their members.

It should retrench 17 employees members (for many of whom that is their sole source of earnings). We're completely satisfied to look at board conferences at any time to introduce ourselves and to reply any questions the board members might have about our agency. Events to a dispute arising under CIOA, the declaration, or the bylaws could agree to resolve the dispute by any type of binding or nonbinding different dispute decision. Neither HOA nor HOA member might start civil litigation previous to looking for to resolve their differences through Different Dispute Resolution. We have now a few years of experience representing clients in all varieties of real estate disputes and litigation. The TSP Dispute Decision workforce, led by Sharon Auton, has the experience to help. If you’re a tenant, we are able to provide help to with tactical advice if your landlord doesn’t comply with his obligations or if you want to problem claims made by them. Our staff has the expertise to help with the entire spectrum of actual estate transactions.

The legislator should have launched it in an actual property bill, but he tacked it onto an energy invoice. Thus, the Nevada Supreme Courtroom did not hold that the real estate speculator obtained title to the property free and clear of U.S. Condominium Act: A "condominium" is property topic to the condominium regime established under this title. Dwelling in a group that's governed by a homeowners' association, condominium association or townhouse association has both advantages and disadvantages. The principles for a condo are often just like the covenants in neighborhoods governed by HOAs. When contemplating a condominium, it is a good idea to completely analysis the charges and bylaws of the condo affiliation. Do a bit of research to find out about selections the Residential Tenancy Branch has already made for claims which might be much like your concern. Generally, homeowners ought to try to work out these points through obtaining permission or an agreement between neighbors previous to the graduation of significant landscaping.

Each day we act for a various range of both landlords and tenants in relation to the quite a few disputes that arise out of the Landlord Tenant Dispute Resolution and tenant relationship. When disputes grow to be very severe seek a dispute intervention program. Training is provided by this system and can occur the primary or second week in August; attendance for all the 28 hours of coaching is obligatory. There are quite a few housekeeping issues not coated by this checklist involving homeowner association governance and business that might want to addressed by the first board to transition from declarant control. There was an increasing social choice to control and preserve architectural quality in developments. There are such a lot of things about one of these authorized help which are not likely the truth, however that we're believing as a result of we're studying about it. Publisher: Bush Franklin There are a number of benefits of hiring a educated Austin mediation lawyer to resolve disputes earlier than they go to courtroom.

How will Alberta landlords handle any landlord and tenant disputes? One in all the numerous things that make homeowners’ association disputes so challenging is that each HOA group is completely different. If we can't handle a case in-home, we can match our clients with one of our highly skilled contacts in other regulation companies, who are proficient and experienced in different areas of legislation. Carry pertinent names, addresses and cellphone numbers which might be necessary to arrange the mediation session. Morris James is outfitted to provide all authorized help necessary all through the lifecycle of a challenge. When you may have a disagreement within your community association that cannot be resolved internally, we assist by making certain that your legal rights are fully represented throughout your dispute. Every scheme is required to operate another dispute resolution department so as to find out rights pertaining to the deposit where the parties can not independently reach an settlement. Interestingly, the legislature determined to only add these new necessities with regard to suspension of voting rights and never with regard to suspension of amenity entry. As a landlord, you have got the proper to seize for rental arrears out of your business tenant.

Deposit protection is shortly to be extended to tenancies with a rental yield of as much as £100,000 per 12 months. The scheme applies to each landlord and letting agent in England and Wales where a deposit has been taken from a tenant below an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Settlement (AST). In case your landlord goes to be overseas for greater than 21 days then they should appoint a brand new Zealand agent (someone who will act on the landlord's behalf) and inform you of the agent's particulars. Once you apply for a dispute decision hearing you can be given a hearing package deal. The subsequent step can be to employ a surveyor to take an account of the situation that has occurred to give their opinion in relation to the dispute. Take be aware of names which might be highly really useful. Each mediation and adjudication are confidential to the events. Some additionally worry that mediation is tough to evaluate as a result of it's confidential. Mediation is a "win/win" reasonably than a "win/lose" answer. Inmany ways, this can be a traditional drawback with mediation or arbitration with out authorized help. Don't let a disagreement change into an costly authorized drawback.

As a tenant you could have every proper to anticipate the accommodation you're renting to be in safe condition and good state of repair. An affiliation's authorized counsel represents the affiliation, proper? Employment-associated lawsuits and claims continue to rise; protect your HOA by drafting an employee handbook. Carrillo Ranch resident Tom LaBonte informed The (Arizona) Republic in February, when the HOA dropped its proposal. That is a new regulation positioned as a protective measure towards retaliatory evictions. Aas v. Superior Court docket (2000) 24 Cal.4th 627, one hundred and one Cal.Rptr.2nd 718, whereby the California Supreme Court docket restricted the damages recoverable in a building defect lawsuit to these measurable property damages ensuing from a development defect. If you are a shopper and an precise or potential buyer or seller of residential property you may refer your case to those our bodies for investigation. We're awaiting the judgment from the British Columbia Supreme Court docket. Establish clear rules: Many CCR and bylaw provisions regarding architectural evaluate are ambiguous.

[sheilalmartinia]

WPBeginner Turns 8 Years Old – Reflections and Updates

Today is July 4th which means WPBeginner is officially 8 years old — feels unreal to type this!

Like every year, I want to take a few minutes and do a quick recap of all the major things happening in business as well as my personal life.

WPBeginner Story

I started using WordPress when I was 16 years old and started WPBeginner at age 19 with a single mission: make WordPress easy for beginners.

Since then WPBeginner has become the largest free WordPress resource site for beginners.

For those of you who’re new, you can read the full WPBeginner story on our about page.

Personal Updates

New Dad life — Solomon is 8 months old and is quite fun. I used to think that I was good at delegating, but I think being a parent has forced me to push it to a new level.

Completely out of the blue, I got invited to have dinner with the United States Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin. The dinner was held at the Treasury building, and it was humbling to be in the company of several national leaders and top entrepreneurs like Shahid Khan, the owner of Jacksonville Jaguars.

I also received the Technology Award from the Pakistani News Channel (GeoTV) where I sat down and got to chat with the new Ambassador of Pakistan for United States.

WPBeginner Updates

Thanks to you all, WPBeginner has continued to grow in double-digit percentage (year over year). There have been several notable updates from last year, that I’d like to highlight.

1. New WPBeginner Redesign

In November 2016, we launched our new website design. It came with a lot of improvements, most importantly: our mega guides which I promised in the last year’s update.

We now have comprehensive guides on how to speed up WordPress, improve WordPress security, boost WordPress SEO, how to create an online store, how to make a website, and more.

We are working on creating more mega guides in the coming months.

2. Better WPBeginner Infrastructure

Since the redesign, I have gotten several emails asking about the secrets behind WPBeginner’s fast speed.

The answer is: infrastructure.

As WPBeginner grows, we need to continuously invest in our server infrastructure. This past year, I worked with the team at HostGator to build a completely custom infrastructure for WPBeginner that’s spread across multiple data-centers to ensure high availability.

I have been a HostGator customer since 2007, and WPBeginner has been hosted with them since day 1 (see my full HostGator review). I want to thank David, Patrick, Matt, Yannis, Chris, Taylor, Mike, Alfred, and the entire team that helped with the upgrade.

We are using Sucuri as our firewall, and MaxCDN as our CDN provider both of which play a tremendous role in our overall website speed.

Last but not least, we’re using DNSMadeEasy as our DNS provider because they’re one of the fastest in the industry.

3. WPBeginner on YouTube

Our YouTube channel has continued to prosper as we add new videos every week. We now have over 62,000 subscribers and 8.2 million video views (this is double what we had last year).

If you haven’t subscribed yet, then please go ahead and subscribe to WPBeginner on YouTube (it’s free). My goal is to pass 100,000 subscribers by the time I write this post next year.

4. Weekly Showcases

Over the last several years, we have continuously gotten requests for theme showcases. That’s why this year, we made it a goal to do weekly showcases on Fridays.

So far it has worked out great, and we look forward to doing more showcases.

Product Updates

Just about every week, I get an email from a reader saying: “I didn’t know WPBeginner was behind that product”. Now we even have a products page in the main menu.

Our suite of WordPress plugins are now running on over 3 million websites. Below are some of the most notable updates:

WPForms

We launched WPForms, a drag & drop form builder last year with a goal to make the most beginner friendly WordPress form plugin. I think we’re doing a pretty darn good job.

It has passed over 1.1 million downloads and is actively running on over 300,000 websites. Best part is that we have an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 with over 652 five-star reviews.

You can download it for free from the WPForms website or from the WordPress.org plugins directory.

Please give it a try, so you can see why so many people love it!

MonsterInsights

Last year, we acquired the most popular Google Analytics plugin for WordPress from Yoast and rebranded it to MonsterInsights. I’m really proud of the updates that we have made specially the Enhanced Ecommerce Tracking, Affiliate link tracking, and more.

If you’re a serious business owner, then check out the MonsterInsights Pro version because it will help you unlock really valuable data in your Google Analytics, so you can take your business to the next level.

OptinMonster

OptinMonster is our flagship product, and we recently announced version 4.0.

The new update included a new dashboard, sub-accounts + permission control, better design workflow, and so much more.

OptinMonster helps you grow your email list by converting abandoning website visitors into subscribers. If you’re not using it, then you’re missing out on subscribers.

Envira Gallery

Envira Gallery passed over 100,000 active installs this year. It’s the most powerful WordPress gallery plugin that’s actually fast and easy to use.

We have over two-dozen addons ranging from featured content gallery to WooCommerce to Lightroom. I’m really excited about the next version of Envira that our team is working on.

Our School in Cambodia

I started a tradition 3 years ago when we built our first school in Guatemala. After building 3 schools in Guatemala through Pencils of Promise, Amanda and I wanted to contribute in a different region.

My friend Neil Patel introduced me to Bill and Nancy from the Cambodian Village Fund. Thanks to their awesome work, we were able to build a primary school in Cambodia. While I wasn’t able to attend the opening ceremony because Solomon is so young, I definitely look forward to going there in the future.

Thank You Everyone

I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported us in this journey. I really do appreciate all of your retweets, personal emails, content suggestions, and the in-person hugs / interactions at the events.

You all are AMAZING and without you, there is no WPBeginner.

I look forward to another solid year ahead of us.

Syed Balkhi Founder of WPBeginner

P.S. We’re hiring a full-time (remote work) WordPress Plugin Developer and a Technical Support specialist. If you or someone you know would be interested in being part of our fast-growing team, then please apply here.

The post WPBeginner Turns 8 Years Old – Reflections and Updates appeared first on WPBeginner.

from WPBeginner http://www.wpbeginner.com/news/wpbeginner-turns-8-years-old-reflections-and-updates/

[hometowndruck]

 HIGH SCHOOLS / ROME BRAVES / LOCAL COLLEGES / COMMUNITY EVENTS / CAMPS

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HIGH SCHOOL

Football: Spring game schedule for this weekend:.

Rome vs North Paulding on Friday. 

Model vs Darlington on Friday.

Today: Chattooga vs. Lee (Huntsville) at Jacksonville State University, 2:15 p.m. EDT.

ROME BRAVES

Rome Braves go late in extra innings.  

Next up:  Lexington tonight at 6 and Sunday at 2.

Mills Fitzner’s home game photo gallery. 

Roster updates: none.

LOCAL COLLEGES

Berry Vikings sports updates.

Shorter Hawks sports updates.

Georgia Highlands sports reports.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College sports updates. 

COMMUNITY

TODAY, the Salvation Army of Rome will have its Fourth Annual Run for the Homeless. This annual event will be held at Redmond Regional Medical Center and funds generated will support the Army’s Men and Women’s Shelter, which operates 365 days a year. The Women’s Auxiliary of The Salvation Army is excited to host the 4th Annual “Run for the Homeless” 5K and GoGo Mile Event to be held on Saturday, May 20th. We are partnering with Cycle Therapy to provide a first class running experience to all who participate. All proceeds will be used for the emergency homeless shelter needs here in Rome. We are asking for your support of this wonderful event!  Register to Run for the Homeless by visiting SalvationArmyRome.org. Registration will begin at 7 a.m. and will end promptly at 7:45 a.m. the day of the race.

An afternoon with Phil Jones set for June 10: Phil Jones arrived at Shorter University to build a football and quickly fit into the Rome/Floyd County community as if he’d been here forever. A veteran coach, Jones quickly made the Hawks’ program relevant. Jones separated from the Shorter program following 11 seasons but remains one of the more beloved sports figures in Northwest Georgia. On Saturday, June 10, old friends and players will gather at the Rome Civic Center beginning at noon to talk football. Or as the organizers call it “swap stories and celebrate the greatest coach we know.”  “Wives, girlfriends, children and parents are welcome. It will be a lot of football talk but a lot of those folks were with us from the very beginning and I know Coach (Jones) will be excited to see them as well. No cost to come.” – Coach Pete (Bill Peterson). RSVP by May 10 to bpeterson@otterschicken.com

What’s ahead at the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College this summer:

-May 20-23: USTA National L2 Junior Championships 16/18s

-May 24-29: ITF Senior Regional World Championships

-June 10-13: USTA GA Junior Closed Challenger

-July 1-4: USTA National L2 Junior Championships 16/18s

-July 15-18: USTA Georgia Junior Open

-July 22-23: USTA Clocktower Run-Roll Wheelchair Classic

CAMPS

MLB Youth Baseball Camp: Formerly Hawk Baseball Camp, directed by Matt Larry. Session one: June 5-9; session two: June 12-16;  session three: June 26-30, to be held at the Levee fields, Riverside Park.  $95 includes video and T-shirt. Team, multiple weeks and sibling discounts available. For more information, contact Matt Larry at mlarry@darlingtonschool.org

Rome High Kids Track & Field Camp: Mark your calendars. Kids T&F camp May 30-June 1 ages 6-14. Barron Stadium 6pm-8pm. We will run a meet on that Thursday. More info to come.

Darlington School will host a free youth football clinic for all boys ages 7-12 at Darlington’s Jerry Sharp Field at Chris Hunter Stadium from June 5-8, 9 a.m. until noon. For more information, please email Coach Tommy Atha at tatha@darlingtonschool.org.

Berry Youth Football Camp: The Fourth Annual Coach K Football Camps Inc. Youth Football Camp will take place at Berry College on Tuesday, May 30- Friday, June 2, from 8-11:30 a.m. on Williams Field at Valhalla. This is a non-contact football camp for 7 to 12-year-olds. Please register online at www.berryfootballcamps.com. The cost is $110 and includes a camp T-shirt. Further questions please call 706-236-2290 or email football@berry.edu.

Berry College Volleyball is hosting a series of clinics and camps this summer. All clinics and camps focus on developing and refining specific skills through repetitions and learning strategies that will increase volleyball IQ. Additionally, players will develop secondary skills and play competitive games in a positive, game-like environment. It is our guarantee that players will learn, compete, and have a ton of fun. Day Camps & Clinics

June 1: Setter/Hitter Clinic June 1: Serving Clinic #1 June 2: Passing/Defense Clinic June 2: Serving Clinic #2 July 6-8: All Skills Session #1 (all ages and skill levels) July 25-27: All Skills Session #2 (all ages and skill levels)

Overnight Camps July 17-19: Position Skills Camp (designed for ALL levels, grades 5-12) July 20-22: Elite College Prep (designed for HIGH-level players wanting to play in college, limited to 30 participants)

Athletes can learn more and register on our camp website: http://www.berryvbcamps.com.   You can also check out our camp Facebook page @berryvolleyball camps for pictures and videos from last summer.

Chick-fil-A Dwarf House Sports: Spring football updates. Rome Braves go extra innings. Salvation Army Run for Homeless today.  HIGH SCHOOLS / ROME BRAVES / LOCAL COLLEGES / COMMUNITY EVENTS / CAMPS HIGH SCHOOL Football: