Entries Tagged as 'Fun'

Things More Fun Than Watching the Phillies

Here are five things Id rather do right now than watch the Phillies play professional baseball

1. Trim my toenails.

2. Clean out the litter box.

3. Change a poopy diaper.

4. Do my taxes.

5. Organize my dress shirts by color.

Thats in no particular order, by the way.

The Phillies lost to the Padres on Sunday 6-1, and CSNPhillys Jim Salisburys game notes make one want to punch themselves in the face.

The Phillies had eight hits, but just one for extra bases. They were 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position, struck out 11 times and left 10 on base.

Jimmy Rollins doubled and singled. He had been hitless in his previous 16 at-bats before doubling in the third. Seven games into the roadtrip, Rollins is 3 for 26.

Hunter Pence went 0 for 4 and is hitless in his last 15 at-bats.

Jim Thome got the start at first base. He had a hit in three at-bats, but struck out twice. Thome is 2 for 16 with nine strikeouts on the season.

- Jim Salisbury, CSN Philly

Folks, right now, watching a Phillies game is about as much fun as a trip to the dermatologist. At 7-9, theyre in last place in the NL East, five games back of the Washington Nationals, who were rained out on Sunday. The Phillies have been held to two or fewer runs in 10 of 16 games this season (thats per Jim Salisbury as well).

Realizing that being five games out of first place with 146 games left in the regular is no big deal, there is a larger point.

This team is absolutely brutal to watch. There is nothing fun about watching the Phillies attempt to hit a baseball. And Sundays game was just more of the same.

Eight hits, but only one for extra bases. No home runs. One for nine with runners in scoring position. Eleven strikeouts.

The few star players that are in the lineup arent hitting. And when they do, its usually a harmless single. They have the lowest on-base percentage in the National League. Remember Ruben Amaros missive after the NLDS loss to St. Louis in October? That the Phillies were going to change their approach at the plate?

So far, no good.

Normally, I love sitting down to watch a Phillies game. For me, theres rarely anything better. But with the 2012 Phillies, even their wins are excruciating. Its hard to watch a game right now and think of anything positive to say.

On Sunday, the Phillies were rendered feeble by San Diego starter Anthony Bass.

Anthony. Bass.

Bass walked five over six innings, but gave up only three hits. Yes, you read that correctly. The Phils got only three hits off a guy no one has ever heard of.

This isnt Chris Carpenter or Steven Strasburg shutting the Phillies down. Its Anthony Bass, the #5 pitcher for one of the worst teams in Major League Baseball.

And Im not one of those people that needs to have a 9-6 game every night in order to be entertained. I love pitchers duels. I love a taut match-up of good pitching and not a lot of scoring.

But what has been displayed by the Phillies so far in 2012 is not the result of facing good pitching.

How many times have Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino chased a ball out of the strike zone when ahead in the count 3-1? How many times has Hunter Pence lunged at a first-pitch breaking ball? How many times has John Mayberry Jr. popped up or struck out with men in scoring position?

And frankly, barring a major trade for a big-time bat, even the return of Chase Utley and Ryan Howard doesnt figure to make the Phillies an exciting offensive ballclub again.

We all knew the offense was going to struggle without Utley and Howard. But Im not sure anyone thought it would be this brutal to watch.

Which is why it may be a good idea for me to do another activity, something more enjoyable, then watching the Phils next game against the Diamondbacks.

Perhaps Ill scrub my toilet. Or maybe Ill de-bug my car windshield. I could even read the latest Nicholas Sparks book.

Because anything would be better right now than watching the 2012 Philadelphia Phillies.

Tags: featured, posted

A fun-filled family vacation: a board meeting?

Last year this time I was an exhausted, fried and a keep it together mess trying to help my then 6th grade son cope in a traditional school program. It was then that I realized that we would have to find another school for my boy, or he and our family would not make it. Gratefully, by the end of the year we had found another school, and I am thrilled to report that after almost a full 7th grade school year later (with only 5 absences!) I have my son, my family and my life back in thriving mode.

I was relishing in the amazing transformation our family has had this year as I was surfing through one of my favorite personal growth sites, Finerminds, when I came across an article about Board Meetings International.

Whoa! a 3 day parent/child weekend with other like-minded individuals who value the power of experiential education, unleasing entrepreneurship qualities, serving community, personal physical well-being AND they surf every day? This is too cool and what a great way to celebrate an amazing school year for my budding entrepreneur, Chaz.

Brian Scrone and Jim Sheils (originally from NJ!) started this program out of a passion and belief that Through experiential learning and a fun oceanfront environment, parents and kids develop a deeper, more meaningful relationship with one another and gain a mutual trust and respect that lasts a lifetime!

Board Meetings are specially designed parent/child surfing retreats that combine quality time and beach activity with experiential education and high-caliber training not taught in school. These 3 day retreats offer powerful trainings on 6 key life areas that we believe form the basis of Experiential Education. The 6 pillars of their program are Confidence Mindset, Entrepreneurial Vision, Financial Empowerment, Conscious Contribution, Quality Connection and Energetic Health.

So I signed up! Chaz and I are going to (as Brian and Jim so aptly put it) explore our magic connection and tap into both the parents loving but responsible viewpoint, and the kids lets just have fun energy. Oh yeah, and no electronics, phone, computers or technology during the three days. According to Brian we disconnect to reconnect. (There is a real time surf cam right on the beach though so at least we can wave to dad every morning).

Starting today, I am doing a three part series on our experience:

1 – Today, Ive introduced you to the program

2 – If I can sneak some computer time in I will report in during the 3 day program (or at
least do so on my plane ride home)

3 – Two weeks after the program, Ill get back to you and let you know how both Chaz and I are experiencing (or not experiencing) changes within our daily lives back here on solid Jersey ground.

Have any questions for me youd like me to keep in mind as I participate in this program? This is going to be a tough assignment, but I think I can handle it…:)

Ali Skylar is a personal growth blogger, author (Transforming Ahh Crap! into Wholy Shift! and Life Sucks…Just Kidding!), songwriter, mom and West Coast Swing dancer whose gutsy and humorous insights inspire personal growth and authentic living. For more info on Ali, click on her name above to visit her personal profile.

Family Fun Night benefits academy

Eighth-graders Alyssa Woodall, left, and Myranda Nekic have a good laugh after completing the obstacle course April 13 at the Venice Leadership Academy Family Fun Night.

Buy Photo

CORRESPONDENT PHOTO / ALISON POSNER

Make summer fun as safe as possible

However, summer has a dark side that we all need to be aware of due to the many hazards that the season brings. As you prepare and make plans for a fun summer with your family, remember these safety tips.

Watch the water

As any swim instructor will tell you, swimming lessons are perhaps the most important thing you can give to your child. Florida leads the nation in the number of children under 4 who die from drowning. Thats why its vital that children be taught to swim at a young age.

Drowning is the No. 1 cause of accidental death in children under 4, so swimming lessons and survival swim lessons are very important, said Alicia Spiker, a Safe Start swim instructor at YMCA of Central Florida in Orlando. Even if youre vigilant about watching your children around water, you could always forget to lock a door or close a gate.

Swimming lessons are offered at the YMCA of Marion County, the Central Florida Swim America program, the Jervey Gantt and Hampton Aquatic Centers, Perry Swim School and elsewhere.

In addition to swim and water safety lessons, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention offers these water safety tips:

Fence it off. Install fencing around backyard pools to keep children out.

Learn CPR. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation can help a child stay alive with little or no brain damage.

Be on the lookout. Always supervise young children around water. No one will look after your children like you.

Make life jackets a must. Make sure kids wear them in and around natural water, even if they know how to swim.

Prepare for the sun

With summer come the sun and the heat. Protect yourself and your children by using sunscreen when youre outdoors. To protect your children from the damaging effects of the sun, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends they wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it 15 to 30 minutes before they go outside, and use a waterproof sunscreen if theyre swimming. Reapply it every two hours. The new sunscreen sprays make application much easier and try a sunscreen stick for use on the face.

Careful with fireworks

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, the only safe fireworks display is one done by professionals. That is why the group recommends you watch a professional fireworks display for the Fourth of July rather than doing your own at home.

According to ACEP, emergency rooms in this country treat nearly 10,000 fireworks-related injuries each year, with more than half of those occurring among children under 15. Burns are the most common injuries, with hands and eyes affected most. And nine out of 10 injuries treated involve fireworks that were legal.

The state fire marshal offers these tips for safely using the wide variety of sparklers that are permitted in Florida, which are about the only legal fireworks:

Use sparklers on a hard, flat surface in an open area, away from houses and flammable materials.

Never give sparklers to young children, as sparklers can reach up to 1,800 degrees.

Light only one item at a time and never attempt to re-light a dud.

Keep a fire extinguisher and water hose on hand for emergencies. Keep a bucket of water available to drop used sparklers into.

Beat the bugs

Being outdoors is fun, but menacing insects and bugs are not. Most people have mild reactions to insect bites, but some have allergic reactions that require medical attention. If you or your child have been bitten and experience severe pain and swelling at the site of the bite, a rash or swelling of the face, or difficulty breathing, you should receive an immediate medical evaluation.

And then there are mosquitoes, which are nuisances on their own, but also can carry diseases such as Encephalitis and West Nile Virus.

To protect you and your family from insects and mosquitoes and the diseases they carry, the Florida Department of Health recommends:

Apply insect repellent with DEET to your skin and clothing. Repellents with picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are also effective. Protect children younger than 2 months with mosquito netting.

Avoid going outdoors at dusk and dawn, both peak hours when insects are out. If you must go out, wear long sleeves and long pants.

Empty and clean birdbaths and pet water bowls once or twice a week and remove all standing water in your yard.

Fun and games at Colony Club’s game night

It was fun, games and good food when Colony Club hosted game night at Union Chapel with all proceeds going to support Gildaâ??s Club. Eileen Adams coordinated this fundraiser and she and Lynn Brock picked up food trays from Yianniâ??s CafÃ. Barbara Keen and Phyllis Bonner were setting them out the buffet when I arrived.

Anita Culp and Elaine Perino made brownies they placed on the dessert table when they walked in. Jane Snyder made sure everyone had tickets for the door prizes that President Linda Gronert showed off throughout the evening. I joined Jean Robinson, Billie Lewis and Pat Roach at their table for dinner where Jean and I shared a delicious Monte Cristo sandwich. Marion McCaughey rushed in late after a long, busy day in the operating room at the surgery center. I stopped to chat with Diane Rossi, Pat Long, Kathy Latella and Kathy Reemmer as they set up the tiles at their table for mahjong. These ladies are all retired teachers, Diane from Philadelphia, Pat from Winslow Township, Kathy Reemmer from Atlantic City and Kathy Latella from Port Republic. Sue Baker is sporting a new light brown hairstyle. Kris Stanwood wore a cream color lighthouse sweater. Jane Claypool admitted she is a newcomer to this mahjong group. Linda Houck brought the mahjong coasters she embroidered for her friends who sported mahjong bracelets Beverly Jernee gave the ladies in her class. Marie Barry joked about getting stuck behind a post in the back of the room at the authorâ??s luncheon at The Flanders every year, but admitted thatâ??s never a problem at Colonyâ??s luncheon at Greate Bay.

Beth Wasikowski was easy to spot in a bright yellow sweater and Betsy Fischer told me I took her picture at the Pops luncheon. Rosemarie Fallon, Nadine Otto, Cathy McMenamin and Diane Van Stone skipped their Thursday afternoon mahjong since they were playing tonight. Betty Ermilio had a house full of company over the Easter holiday, including three dogs. Betty, who has carpal tunnel, used a plastic cardholder to play bridge with Ann Loefflad, Viki Gallagher and Janice DeForest. Rose Schambers recently returned from a monthâ??s vacation in Spain. She showed us a picture of her riding a camel in Tangiers and was sorry she forgot to bring The Gazette. Rose enjoyed playing bridge with Joanne Joyce, Bobbie McNeill and Gerry Dewees. Nicollette Mirra, Mary Lee Shanahan, Gerri Cusato and Barbara Weber also played bridge while Peg Cole, Pat Smith, Phyllis Bonner and Debbie Veasey enjoyed mahjong. Meanwhile over in the other room, 16 ladies were playing Bunco. Denise Potter, Mary Rodgers, Joanne Staniac and Barbara Karbach knew the rules of this game, however Ellen Hagen, Kathy Keefrider, Angel Smith, Carol DeMill, Marge Roth and Lorraine Scott needed a refresher course. Prizes were awarded to Marge Roth and Sue Baker.

 

Family, friends and co-workers of Rich Lindley, affectionately called â??Farnsworthâ? gathered at the VFW last Saturday night to celebrate his 70th birthday. Jane Lindley and daughter, Stephanie, had been cooking for days and insisted that Rich go to work Saturday to keep him out of their hair. The VFW looked festive with green, white and black balloons on all the tables and Bob Wilent spent most of the evening in the kitchen cooking the Italian buffet, which gave Rich and Jane and their children, Gary and Stephanie, time to visit with their guests. Darin MacDonald entertained on the piano and with vocal selections throughout the evening. I spotted Ken Cooper checking out old photographs on the walls at the VFW. I had egg on my face when I didnâ??t recognize Barbara Rundle, who reminded me I covered her wedding back in the â??80s. Jim and I enjoyed chatting with Helena and Rod Hamilton and Doc Anderson. Helena reported business was brisk at her Asbury Avenue consignment shop Saturday and is glad to have Rod back lending a hand now that he is finished working on the Revel project in Atlantic City. Doc told me how he got his nickname â?? his father was a doctor and with seven sons, folks in their hometown always said thatâ??s one of Docâ??s sons. And I still donâ??t know what Docâ??s given name is. I enjoyed meeting Marguerite Clark and Roe Hocker who helped the Lindleyâ??s decorate and set up for the party. Roe also made the desserts and biked to the VFW in the afternoon. Janis Harris enjoyed the party with the Harry Klause crew and she recently returned from two months vacation in Florida sporting a new, short hairstyle. Speaking of Harry Klause, as soon as he and wife Maureen arrived, the gang got together for a picture. Maureen told me she was recently certified by the IGFA for catching the record mako shark weighing 126 pounds on 4-pound test. Harry Klause admitted heâ??s not much for fishing as heâ??s always too busy selling cars, his No. 1 priority. Maureen recalled her father-in-law, Harry Klause Sr.â??s, many fishing trips to the 28-mile wreck with fishing buddies Bob Stahler, Les Friday and Bob Gill, where they caught lots of fish. However, Maureen wasnâ??t about to reveal the location for her record catch. Hank Kalvoda took some heat from his co-workers when he showed up in a sport jacket and tie with wife Sue. Kristina Von Hess, whose grandfather was a professional wrestler, is looking forward to her marriage to Todd Morey on July 21. Frank Daley must be in the witness protection program as he always refuses to have his picture taken; or maybe heâ??s afraid to break my camera.

Sue and Cary Monahan love their 13-year-old Maltase, Nibby, who has won many trophies over the years for best dressed in Woofâ??n Paws contests, but admitted they have retired Nibby, who is resting on her laurels. Jim enjoyed reminiscing about the good old days in the police department with Bill Wilent and Greg Rundle while Lucy Wilent and I discussed prom gowns and other fluff. While Conrad Eisenlohr ate from the Italian buffet, he reported he has lost over 25 pounds. I enjoyed meeting and chatting with Eloise Wolkowicz, whose family owned the Ocean Call at 1412 Ocean Ave. for 37 years until it was torn down in 1996. Eloise was the English department chairwoman for 15 years at the Medical Arts High School in Camden. I thought Kevin Costner had crashed the party, but soon learned it was Gene Klasky, who admitted he is often mistaken for this superstar. Gene enjoyed the party with Jean Rutkowski, Sonny and Dosie Rutkowski and Doris and Sig Rutkowski. I did catch Doris ducking outside for a cigarette with Maureen Klause just like they used to do at the Civic Center when we played volleyball back in the â??70s. Carol Oakes sported a soft hat when she hit the dance floor under the sparkling mirror ball with the birthday boy, Rich Lindley. Always the gracious hostess, Jane Lindley served individual banana cream pies and fancy cupcakes to all the guests after we all sang â??Happy Birthdayâ? to Rich. The party was starting to wind down when some of the older folks, including this columnist and my husband, headed home.

 

Funny and fun Veep premieres on HBO

Why is it so fun to see Julia Louis-Dreyfus swear while simultaneously navigating politics in heels and a nice red dress? We always knew there was a lion under Elaines sometimes wacky demeanor. Christine was not your average mom either. Theres something fun about watching Dreyfus play a political shark in a suit as she swims the stormy political waters of Washington DC as a vice president. Dreyfus is so watchable as a comedian – she makes something as dry as politics (just watch C-span) imminently enjoyable. (I think we could watch her watch paint dry and it would be entertaining!) Its just fun to watch her being daffy and sassy and bossy. Dreyfus excels at playing unlikeable characters – that we like to unlike so much – that we actually kind of like them! She channels our inner insecure-crabby person who succeeds despite (or maybe because of) her flaws. Shes a veep who asks her admin assistant every day if the president has called even though she knows the answer will always be no. While its not new to show the inner-workings of the White House, theres something refreshing about Veep. It mixes funny with smart banter very well. (In a nod to fun marketing HBO even gave Veep Meyer her own website.)

The pilot does a good job of setting up the characters and it truly is an ensemble. Great casting makes the show that much more watchable. The vice president, Selina Meyer, is trying to get a clean jobs program funded and promotes cornstarch utensils as part of the program. This goes awry when at a meeting, the utensils melt in her coffee cup and the veep discovers shes stepped on some very big toes: namely, that of giant oil interests. Shes forced to host a dinner in the presidents absence and inadvertently uses a politically incorrect term she heard earlier in the day from a political rival. The rest of the episode involves spin control on this gaffe and another when a senator known for sexual harassment passes away and her chief of staff signs her name to the condolence card rather than the veeps name.

Its a funny show. When her everyman/assistant/guy Friday Gary goes to do damage control and steal the card back, the White House staffer makes a deal that Amy (Meyers chief of staff) will have to go on a date with him. A date Amy finds abhorrent. Do I look like a pimp? Gary (expertly played by Tony Hale) shouts in the office but the deal is made. Its great to see Anna Chlumsky again (as Amy).

The political wranglers/cohorts are an excellent supporting cast. Matt Walsh, as Mike director of communications is funny as the bumbling director who always has an imaginary dog he has to get home to walk. The breakout character is the other shark in a suit: Dan Egan, (spot-on performance by Reid Scott). He deftly maneuvers his way onto Meyers staff with each thinking they used the other. His character is so delightfully devious he almost steals the show. Watch the full episode on HBO.

The laughs are slow to start but it doesnt matter, the performances are so enjoyable.

Veep is quick-witted, fun and watchable. My only criticism is they need to update their pop-culture references to the present day and not thirty years ago (Simon Garfunkel and Moonlighting!? Is it 1985?) The only other problem? It was over much too quickly. Cant wait for the next ep to air.

Photo: Courtesy of HBO

Gingerbread Traditions: Fun for Young and Old

Gingerbread has been a tradition throughout Europe for centuries, especially in Germany.

#13;

“Gingerbread houses are what Christmas is all about for me,” said Stephen Schubert, executive pastry chef at River City Casino, who was raised in Hamburg, Germany. “My family always made gingerbread houses together when I was little. It was such fun and a big attraction for us when we were kids. Christmas without gingerbread wouldn’t be Christmas at all.”

#13;

Schubert continues his family’s tradition of making gingerbread houses with his kids at home and at work, where he recently constructed with his team of bakers a gingerbread house that weighs in around 800 pounds, of which 500 pounds is gingerbread.

#13;

“When you make a gingerbread house, no matter how big or small, the dough has to be drier to hold up under the icing and decorations,” said Schubert, explaining his gingerbread houses are always just a house. “I like to make traditional gingerbread houses. I don’t do castles or other stuff-it has to be a house with bricks, cookies and stained glass windows of sugar.”

#13;

Smaller table-top houses are a feature among the holiday decorations at the Chatillon-Demenil Mansion and the Eugene Field House, two of St Louis’ fabled historic houses opened for public tours.

#13;

“Gingerbread houses always draw such attention,” said Eugene Field House volunteer Shirley Zork, who had the idea to have a drawing for the gingerbread house on display in the Eugene Field House parlor. “It’s a way to help raise some extra money for the restoration of the house.”

#13;

Whether big or small making gingerbread houses should be fun.

#13;

“Making gingerbread houses is something families can do together. They don’t have to be perfect, so don’t put too many restrictions on it, Schubert said. Remember you want it to be fun for the kids. Then, once Christmas comes, you have a big party and everyone gets a piece to eat-just like Hansel and Gretel.” 

#13;

To help you make your own gingerbread house, Schubert has shared his recipe for gingerbread dough. Use store-bought cutters or make your own house pattern to cut from the dough. Or, cut or shape into anything you like from gingerbread men or stars to hang on the tree.

#13;

For those who are not into construction projects, but love the taste of gingerbread, I have included two soft gingerbread recipes. One from the Pillsbury test kitchen for Gingerbread Loaves, a tea bread that is a nice addition to a cookie tray. The other is a historic recipe that is dense and full flavored and has the claim of being one of General Washington’s favorite Martha-baked gingerbread cake.

#13;

Click here for the the recipes

Recap: ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ – ‘A Book, a Bachelorette and a …

I hope everyone has recovered from last weeks wholly uncomfortable Taylor trainwreck last week. I was thinking we might kick off this week with a limo drive through the gates of a mental institution or maybe a shelter for battered women, but no such luck. Instead, we will start the way all deep emotional healing in Beverly Hills begins — at lunch.

Lisa has a nice, relaxing meal of appetizers planned for Skeletor, I mean Taylor. Taylor, who is so thrilled that Lisa is now friends with her, seems completely oblivious to the look of horror and pity tattooed all over Lisas face. She wants to tell Lisa all about ruining Brandis Malibu beach party, but she cant remember a thing! She was blotto! Taylor isntwearing eye make-up OR false eyelashes, so Lisa knows this is a cry for help. Taylor doesnt want help, though — she wants to bitch about Camille. Shes not her true friend! She felt so betrayed! Um, Taylor, Camille is not your problem. Anyway, Lisa is going to be taking Taylor to Las Vegas for Pandoras bachelorette party, as Kyle cant make it. Taylor deserves some fun, Lisa thinks. Yes, its a grand idea to take someone who has just confessed to being blackout drunk to Las Vegas. That always ends well!

Camille and Dedra drink white wine to blot out their memories of Brandis beach party. But then Brandi drops by! Well, maybe they can drink for other reasons, because this is a grand opportunity to talk about what a nutcase Taylor is.Brandi thinks Taylor behaved like Linda Blair in The Exorcist, though she doesnt know the name of the actress or the movie and just refers to it as the one with the girl whose head spun around. Yes, Brandi is quite the conversationalist. The important nugget of information in this scene is not that Brandi would probably suck at a game of charades, but thatAdrienne has invited Camille, Kim, Brandi and Dani to have a fun girls weekend at the Palms on the same weekend Lisa and Taylor will be in Las Vegas for Pandoras party. Yes, Adrienne is determined to get her fair share of free publicity even if it involves putting up with Dana, which is quite something.

But before she can head off to Vegas, Adrienne and Paul are going to be appearing on The Doctors. Paul did not eat breakfast and coerces some stagehand into fetching him some desserts. Then on the show, Paul prattles on about how multiple small meals are the key to staying healthy when you have a busy lifestyle. Meals like pastries and chocolate cake lollipops? Im glad Paul is a plastic surgeon and not, say, a cardiologist.

Just as Adrienne has business to take care of before Vegas, so does Lisa. And it involves shopping, which is so much more important than silly TV appearances. Lisa and Pandora shop for bridal gowns, and Lisa loves them all. But Pandora wants more diamonds and tacky pink roses splattered all over her dress. Lisa is fine with anything her little Pandy wants. Meanwhile,Giggy is either bored or dying on the coach at the bridal gown store. If he is dying, it may be from the embarrassment of wearing baby blue footie pajamas in public, poor thing.

The girls, divided into two separate teams, arrive in Vegas. Except for Kim. Kim is still moving. She hurt her neck! Its so hard! She just has so many boxes! Adrienne nods and makes sympathetic noises, then promptly hangs up the phone and suggests Kim is a big, stinking liar. Im with Adrienne. Kim should just confess that shes become agoraphobic or Ken has locked her in the basement or something, because we see about as much of her has Charlie on Charlies Angels.

In a side-by-side comparison of the insane luxury suits everyone gets, I give the advantage to the Hard Rock. The Palms just looks junky, sorry Adrienne.Lisa makes Taylor drink tea and tells her that someday shell be horribly depressed that her little girl is all grown up. Yes, that Lisa sure knows how to cheer up a crazy woman!

Back in Beverly Hills, Kyle is writing a book — but theyre already shooting the cover. Because we know the cover will be better than anything printed inside the damn thing. Kyle is so exhausted from writing all night! Sometimes shes writing at 2, 3 in the morning! Its fun, but its A LOT of pressure. Shut up, Kyle. Still, this photo shoot is VERY important to Kyle, and she wants her sister to be by her side so she can gloat about how fabulous she is and maybe whisper that she should have been cast as the girl in Return to Witch Mountain, so there. But, oddly enough, Kim isnt answering her phone. Kyle is so frustrated! She feels that this is a terrible step back in their bonding relationship! Plus she was going to make Kim hold her robe and slippers during the fashion shoot!

Back to Vegas. What follows is basically cutting back and forth between Taylor and Lisa and Adriennes gaggle of gals to determine whos having the more fabulous time. I would say any group that doesnt include Dana is probably having more fun. She has to tell everyone at the table with her that shes wearing a necklace made of 125 carats ofperfect diamonds! And its a friggin lollipop holder. Its for sale for a million dollars! Ah, so Dana is just plugging stuff for a kickback. Thats why shes so annoying!

But Dana is drowned out once Adrienne invites them into the kingpin suite, which has its own bowling alley. How fun! If anyone had worn flats! Anyway, the girls bowl. In high heels. And, in Brandis case, a boot. This would be an excellent way for Brandi to break her other foot. Camille thinks Brandi is fun to be around, and we will soon learn exactly what that means, but I wont spoil the surprise for you.

Time to visit Lisa and Taylor. Lisa wants everyone to know its Taylors birthday! Lisa is trying so hard to cheer up Taylor its almost painful to watch, but Taylor does seem happier — her lip injections are smiling. Meanwhile, Pandoras friends all look a little miserable to be stuck with two old bags who are stealing all their thunder, but lets face it, this is Lisas big day, not Pandys.

Back at the Palms, its girls night out! So, Adrienne and her tiny gaggle of friends bump and grind in a very small, exclusive spot on the dance floor where actual men cant get to them. Then,Brandi and Camille grind against one another. Brandi puts her hands on Camilles hips, and it starts looking like the opening scene in a Skinemax movie. No wonder Camille likes Brandi. From the way Camille tells it, Brandi may be more masculine than Kelsey Grammer anyway.

Meanwhile, Lisa, Pandora and Taylor are dragged onto the stage at Chippendales to engage in a fake Dating Game type contest in which they must give some mostly undressed guy a lap dance. Pandora, realizing her mother is watching, wiggles cheerfully and quickly sits down. Lisa, however, rubs her butt in some guys face and loses all of her English reserve.Taylor sort of hops up and down, so Lisa is named the winner. After spending much of the evening moaning about being the mother of the bride and how she didnt want to see sex toys or have any kind of bachelorette behavior inflicted on her, Lisa finally unleashes her inner skank and seems quite happy about it.

Kyle, who is preparing to host a white party, goes to Kathy Hiltons consignment store with Estella. Family plug! Estella picks out a dress thats painfully 80s, and after arranging to purchase said dress, Kyle walks outside of the store — and bumps into Kim! Kyle drags her back into the store like a prize turkey, even though Kim doesnt want to see Estella for some random reason. But none of that matters, because Kyle wants To Talk.

I thought this might be a case of Kyle lecturing Kim about being the worlds crappiest sister, but instead it turns into a tearful flip-out by Kim before Kyles said boo.Kim tells Kyle that her daughters Brooke and Kimberly are taking the move hard. Kim cries. Her daughters dont like her boyfriend Ken. Why cant everybody be happy for her? She cant eat! Shes been alone 18 years. Shes tired of being alone. Maybe Kyle can help her talk to her kids? She sobs. Kim crumples up like a snotty Kleenex. Kyle, who must be getting pretty good at handling lunatics between her sister and Taylor, tries to comfort Kim. She worries that Kim isnt eating (shes not). We now have two Skeletors on the show, fabulous. I guess its probably a good thing we havent seen much of Kim, because Kim is holding things together with spit and elementary school paste, and Im not sure turning a camera on the whole mess would have helped. But I think we can come to one conclusion – she needs to hire movers.

Oh my Lord of the Rings — next week, Kyle has her white party — and apparently has to uninvited Russell. AS HE SHOWS UP AT THE DOOR. WITH TAYLOR. So brace yourself for yet another uncomfortable episode of RHoBH!

Do you think Kims boyfriend is a bad influence? Which do you think was better — Adriennes party or Lisas party? Do you think Taylor really cant remember Brandis party?

Martin O’Neill has made it fun again at Sunderland, says David Vaughan

David Vaughan believes Sunderlands players are already benefiting from the self-belief that Martin ONeill has begun to instil in them.

The former Blackpool midfielder scored a sublime late equaliser on Sunday when his sidemarked ONeills first game in charge with a last-gasp win against Blackburn Rovers atthe Stadium of Light courtesy of Sebastian Larssons 90th-minute free-kick.

It felt different out there, said Vaughan, who feels Steve Bruces successor is making football fun again on Wearside. The new manager has come in and given us back some belief. He wantsus to go out there and express ourselves a bit and try to enjoy playing football. That helped us.

The last week with the new manager has been good. Training has been good. We have been having shorter, sharper sessions. We have had more tempo in the sessions and it has just been aimed at trying to get everyone enjoying their football again.

Hes been very supportive and has been telling us what he wants from us. He believes in the players he has got here and that gives us self-belief and confidence.

First impressions have been good. He seems to be fair with everyone. He has been approachable and seems to be someone who you want to play for. Sometimes it can be difficult when a new manager comes in because you are not sure which players he wants to have in his team or what his ideas will be. But he has come in and put his marker down on the team and its up to the players now.

Vaughan helped Sunderland to record only their third home win since New Years Day, and his attentions are now turning to the match against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on Sunday. Tottenham away is not going to be easy, the midfielder said.

We have shown we have enough quality in the squad to deliver in the Premier League. We have greater confidence now and we have climbed out of the bottom three – but that has to be just the start.

We cant just rest on our laurels. We have to keep going, particularly at home,and climb the table up to where we want to be.

Gary Takes Off to Fun in the Central Florida Sun

GARY, Ind., Dec 12, 2011 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) –
Allegiant

/quotes/zigman/101442/quotes/nls/algt ALGT
-1.62%



today announces new, nonstop jet service between Gary, Ind., and Orlando, Fla., via Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), will begin Feb. 15, 2012. The company, known for its exceptional travel deals, will introduce the new service to Gary residents with fares as low as $69.99* one-way.

“We’re pleased to bring an affordable and convenient travel option to Gary,” Andrew C. Levy, Allegiant Travel Company President, said. “We are confident that the Gary community will appreciate flying nonstop to Orlando and take advantage of the great deals we offer on hotels, car rentals and theme park tickets.”

“The Gary/Chicago International Airport is delighted to welcome Allegiant Travel Company to Northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area,” said Steven Landry, Interim Director of the Gary Chicago International Airport. “Our partnership with such a renowned and established company in the travel industry is an incredibly positive step towards fulfilling a key aspect of the airport’s Strategic Business Plan.”

The new flights will operate twice weekly between Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). For flight days and times, please visit
www.allegiant.com .

With plenty of shopping, dining, outdoor activities and entertainment, Orlando offers vacationers the perfect getaway. Located in the heart of Central Florida, Orlando is home to the world’s most exciting theme parks including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. Orlando’s famous International Drive is more than 10 miles long and features more than 100 hotels, 450 stores, several attractions and two major outlet malls. Orlando is also home to more than 175 golf courses, many of which were designed by pro golfers such as Greg Norman, Tom Watson, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.

Allegiant provides low-cost car rental service through its partnership with Alamo Rent a Car.

Allegiant’s $69.99* one-way introductory fare is limited, must be purchased by Jan. 4, 2012, and is valid for travel by May. 15, 2012. Introductory fares are not available on all flights.

Reservations can be made on the airline’s website at
www.allegiant.com or by calling the company’s travel experts at 702-505-8888.

About the $69.99* one-way fares:

Seats are limited. Fares are one-way and not available on all flights. Must be purchased by Jan. 4, 2012, for travel by May 15, 2012. Prices do not include PFC, segment tax or Sept. 11th security fee of up to $10.70 per segment. A segment is one take-off and one landing. A convenience fee of $10.00 per passenger, per segment is included in the introductory one-way fare. A fee of $14.99 per segment, will apply when purchased through Allegiant call centers. Purchases made at any Allegiant Airport Ticket Office will not incur a convenience or call center fee. For ticket counter hours of operation, please visit
www.allegiant.com . When purchased at the time of booking, a checked bag fee of $19.99 per bag, per segment will apply for the first two (2) checked bags. If purchased at flight check-in, a fee of $35 per checked bag, per person, per segment will apply for the first two bags checked. In all cases, additional higher fees will apply for three or more checked bags. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply.

Allegiant, travel is our deal.

Las Vegas-based Allegiant Travel Company

/quotes/zigman/101442/quotes/nls/algt ALGT
-1.62%



has posted 35 consecutive quarters of profitability. The company is focused on linking travelers in small cities to world-class leisure destinations such as Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix-Mesa, Orlando, Fla., and Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fla. Through its subsidiary, Allegiant Air, the company operates a low-cost, high-efficiency, all-jet passenger airline offering air travel and hotel rooms, rental cars and other travel-related services. The company ranked ninth this year in Forbes’ Best Small Companies. Allegiant was also recently named one of FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Fastest-Growing Companies” for the second consecutive year. In 2011 and 2010, Allegiant ranked 64th and 25th, respectively, on FORTUNE magazine’s Fastest-Growing Companies list. In 2010, Allegiant was ranked number one for low-cost carriers in Aviation Week’s Top Performing Airline study. Receive breaking news from Allegiant by visiting Allegiant’s Facebook Fan Page at
www.facebook.com/Allegiant or follow Allegiant on Twitter at twitter.com/allegianttravel.

The Allegiant Travel Company logo is available at

http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=8305

This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire,
www.globenewswire.com

SOURCE: Allegiant Travel Company

CONTACT: Allegiant Media Contact:
Kristine Shattuck-Cooper
Phone: 702-853-4625
Email: mediarelations@allegiantair.com

(C) Copyright 2010 GlobeNewswire, Inc. All rights reserved.

/quotes/zigman/101442/quotes/nls/algt

Add ALGT to portfolio

ALGT

Allegiant Travel Co.


$
53.34

-0.88
-1.62%

Volume: 182,104
Dec. 30, 2011 4:00p

/quotes/zigman/101442/quotes/nls/algt

Add ALGT to portfolio

ALGT

Allegiant Travel Co.


$
53.34

-0.88
-1.62%

Volume: 182,104
Dec. 30, 2011 4:00p