Skipped last week – the short weeks always kill me. I hope everyone had a nice holiday weekend. I went to my sister’s in north NJ for a big family dinner and then had one of my last high school buddies wedding which was a small high school reunion.
With Thanksgiving came a new question. How early is too early to call or text someone? When sleeping in on Tday, the text messages start coming in. But is 9AM too early to send out a text? 10AM? How about on election day after you voted at 8AM? Can you send out a text then? I have been having this debate with people who apparently do not like to sleep in.
Did you know that in NYC, it is a 3.5 year minimum jail sentence if you get caught with an unlicensed gun? I did not know but have learned thanks to Plaxico Burress. Mayor Bloomberg put the law in effect. With our homicide rate growing (300 as of 11/22), could that not be something that would be a deterrent in Philly?
And speaking of guns, I recently filed for a gun permit – I spend a lot of time in north Philly. I thought this was worth mentioning. When you get fingerprinted, no longer do you have to put ink on your finger. They do it right to the computer now with a scan of each finger. Thought it was very cool.
I have been able to catch some good shows lately. Eagles, Madonna, AC/DC, Barry Manilow to name some. In case you care, the Spectrum is having their last show on 12/12 (Neil Young and Wilco). After the show, I think the venue is closed in order to build a new entertainment facility of shopping and bars by the stadium.
I want to give a special shout out to Anne Mahlum. She was recently honored by CNN as a Hero. http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/04/02/heroes.mahlum/index.html http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/living/2008/04/03/heroes.anne.two.cnn
And lastly, let’s talk real estate. The government has lowered interest rates and now rates are near 5.5% for a 30 year fixed mortgage. The government has lowered the cost to borrow money to one of its lowest points in history. In fact, in London, they lowered their interest rate to the lowest it has been since 1694! Cost of money is cheap and we know many sellers are hungry to sell their properties. Add on a $7500 credit from the federal government and this is one of the most lucrative time to be a buyer. As most of you should know, I am a licensed Realtor and would be happy to help if you are interested in buying a new home. - Mark
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Our Earliest Opening Ever
To celebrate this early opening:: SKI OR BOARD THIS WEEK FOR 50% OFF LIFT TICKETS. Come and enjoy the Snow!!
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1) The Tenth Annual "TO LIFE" Party
Wednesday, December 24, 2008 At Cuba Libre Rum Bar and Restaurant 9PM-2:00AM (Lounge 125 after party until 3:30am)
For the TENTH year Andrew Spivack and Adam Solomon are hosting Philly's premiere Christmas Eve Party on Wednesday, December 24th, and this year our good friend Jennifer Birch has joined in on the FUN!!
Once again we will be taking over two of the hottest locations in Olde City, Philadelphia: 32 Degrees Luxe Lounge and Cuba Libre Rum Bar and Restaurant. On special occasions just like this the owners open the doors between the two places so you can walk freely between the two spots. As always we will have Philadelphiaʼs craziest DJs throwing down some of the best in hip-hop and old school beats.
Tickets are $20.00 in advance and $30.00 at the door Last year over 800 people came out to celebrate. For more information and Advance tickets go to www.pulseofphilly.com or http://tolife10.eventbrite.com VIP tables available at 215-260-2326. Don't miss the event that everyone will be talking about. Advance tickets end at 12pm 12/24/07
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2) CPA NEEDED
Are you looking to change to a new work environment? Looking for more responsibility, career growth, and higher compensation? We are currently sourcing for Public Accountants with 3 to 6 years of experience in tax, auditing or consulting to work at established accounting firms in the Philadelphia region. Allow us to help you find the environment where you can thrive, develop and reach your career goals. For Immediate consideration, send your most recent resume in Word to gkline@skillsourcestaffing.com. Excellent compensation packages. CPA/ MBA preferred. Now is the time to move to the right work environment!
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3) Rudolph's Rowdy Ruckus
Saturday December 6th @ Urban Saloon 8pm-11pm Full Open Bar & Food 11-1 $2.50 Miller Lite & Bud Light Bottles
Prizes include: GPS Navigation System $100 Parc Restaurant Gift Certificate Chase Utley Authentic World Series Jersey #17 Villanova Men's Basketball Tickets to Wachovia Center
$50.00 per person and a toy donation for Toys for Tots. Attendees who bring a new, unwrapped toy will receive a free raffle ticket at the door ($10.00 value) for their chance to win the main door prize.
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4) South Street Bridge Closing
December 8 The City of Philadelphia’s Streets Department officials have announced that on Monday, December 8, 2008 the South Street Bridge (in the foreground, spanning the Schuylkill River above) will be closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The demolition and rebuilding of the bridge requires complete closure of the structure between Convention Avenue and 27th Street, including the on- and offramps connecting South Street and I-76. Be prepared for significant vehicular congestion throughout University City, as well as periodic traffic and parking changes in the vicinity of campus for the duration of this 24-month project. For those who commute via SEPTA and utilize the University City Station, the station will remain open and accessible during the South Street Bridge reconstruction project. The station exit at South Street will be closed, requiring passengers to utilize the station exit at Convention Avenue.
More information on the City’s plans can be viewed by visiting their official website at: www.potholes.phila.gov/southstreetbridge
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5) Lock and Key Event
Thursday December 18 MadRiver in Old City 7-10pm (Check in at 6:30pm)
1 FREE Drink! FREE APPETIZERS FOR THE FIRST HOUR, Drink Specials during the event! Free admission into Mad River after Lock & Key (no additional cover to stay after), chances to win Great Prizes (Value Over $1,000) and the opportunity to massively mix, mingle, make new friends, and who knows what else!
The most fun and interactive singles event in Philly! www.lockandkeyevents.com philly@lockandkeyevents.com Unlock your possibilities…
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6) WINTERFEST 2008
Winterfest featuring Running of the Santas 2008 Come to McFadden's Winterfest and join Running of the Santas, Saturday, December 13th, 2008!! Sponsored by Coors Light and Coors Banquet. GET YOUR TICKETS NOW BEFORE THEY SELL OUT!! Tickets are $15 until November 30th, $20 if purchased between December 1st and December 13th ONLINE. $25 at the door. Rock outside in our giant heated tents to live bands! The Interns, All Crazy, and of course MR. GREENGENES!!! Enjoy $3 Coors Light & Coors Banquet along with $5 Red Bull & Vodkas ALL DAY AND NIGHT!! Doors open at NOON! Presented by McFadden's Philadelphia & RUNNINGOFTHESANTAS.com. Get your Santa suit or holiday costume TODAY at www.RUNNINGOFTHESANTAS.com! A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation and the Ellie Koerner Leukemia Fund. Don't forget to visit Alex's Lemonade Stand in the tent (www.ALEXSLEMONADE.org) http://www.mcfaddensphilly.com/events-description.php?id=14209
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7) NEW BAR :: WineO
447 Poplar St, Philadelphia, PA 19123 Located in Northern Liberties
An up-market wine bar with custom iron works and a clever moniker that took the place of the old Ministry of Information. WineO's drink menu is (no surprise here) grounded on its wine list. Its a list that includes more than 40 bottles, 18 available by the glass. Sommelier Luca Cimmarotta has put together a nice group of carefully chosen wines, half of which are $40 and under (though topping out at $110). The food menu is even more invigorated than the decor, rooted in Italian flavors with meat, fish, cheese and produce sourced from the Italian Market by chef Fabrizio Pace (formally of La Veranda and Gioia Mia)--even the burger gets a bruschetta topping.
Insider Tips: We try to keep the $3/glass wine special during happy hour a secret.
Large selection of Wine, Beer , and Liquor Mediterranean/American Kitchen Open til 1am
Tuesday to Sunday 5pm to 2am Sunday Brunch 11am to 3pm CASH ONLY - ATM ON PREMISES
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8) The 6th Annual Broad Street Bash
Philadelphia's Unofficial Pre Mummers Party Wednesday, December 31, 2006, 9:00 pm DoubleTree Hotel - Broad Street at Locust St, Philadelphia
Philadelphia's Hottest New Years Eve Hotel Party. Right on the Mummer/Phillies Parade route. All the convenience of Playing and Staying where the action is on NYE & New Years Day. The Broad Street Bash includes: Premium open bar 9pm-1am Delicious Hors D'oeuvres Buffet Carving Station(s) Music & Dancing with one of the areas hottest DJs. Party Favors Champagne Toast at Midnight & More
Dress to the Nines : Semi Formal Attire/Black tie Optional
Buy your Tickets today at http://www.PhillyNewYears.com:
Ticket are sold in lots. Each lot will be sold til the last posted date of the lot sale or til we run out of tickets for that lot. See website for ticket prices and special discounts
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9) Young Professionals Afterwork Holiday Networking Happy Hour!
Elephant and Castle Pub & Restaurant - 1800 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 12/10/08
Join us for The Young Professionals After-Work Holiday Networking Happy Hour at Elephant & Castle Restaurant and Pub. Come see Elephant & Castle Restaurant and Pub's newly remodeled space. JOIN US!! Philadelphia's young professionals will enjoy a complimentary first drink, great drink specials, light appetizers, and giveaways. Best of all, this event is recession and paycheck friendly -- there is just a $5 cost to attend IF YOU RSVP ($10 at the door if you do not). Everyone that RSVP's in advance can also opt to be added and receive a complimentary networking listing of all attendees that will list you and your business as well as your contact info. Grab your friends - meet up for Happy Hour in the City. Over 200 people are expected to attend. The Young Professional Series are a great way to gain new business, meet new industry contacts and create friendly, lasting, business and personal relationships.Brought to you by: UpcomingEvents.com & YoungProfessionalEvents.com Sponsored by: zipcar, American Male, and Elephnat & Castle Restaurant and Pub. For more information on the web, visit: http://www.upcomingevents.com
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10) ARTICLES
A) TOP 10 Beer Producing Nations: http://www.askmen.com/top_10/travel/top-10-beer-producing-nations_10.html
B) Heroin ok in Switzerland: http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-health/20081130/EU.Switzerland.Heroin.Vote/
C) Can the Bluefin Tuna Be Saved? :: http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1862255,00.html?cnn=yes
D) Divorce Calculator shows odds your marriage will last: http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2008/11/29/divorce-calculator-shows-odds-your-marriage-will-last/
E) Amsterdam moves to close a fifth of 'coffee shops': http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081121/ap_on_re_eu/eu_netherlands_marijuana
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A) Get in the Gym: Fitness for Skiers: http://www.skinet.com/action/2008-11/get-gym-fitness-skiers?2
B) An Injury-Free Approach to Cross-Training: http://www.active.com/running/Articles/An_Injury-Free_Approach_to_Cross-Training.htm?act=EMC-Active&Vehicle=Insider&Date=11_19_08&Edition=1&Sections=Articles&Creative=An_Injury-Free_Approach_to_Cross-Training&TextName=More&ArtText=Txt&Placement=3&Dy=Thu
C) Balance Your Blades: 3 Corrective Shoulder Exercises: http://www.active.com/swimming/Articles/Balance_Your_Blades__3_Corrective_Shoulder_Exercises.htm?act=EMC-Active&Vehicle=Insider&Date=11_19_08&Edition=1&Sections=Articles&Creative=Balance_Your_Blades__3_Corrective_Shoulder_Exercises&TextName=More&ArtText=Txt&Placement=6&Dy=Thu
SPONSOR:: PHILADELPHIA SPORTS CLUBS (http://www.mysportsclubs.com/regions/PSC.htm) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
11) 7th Annual Mother-of-All Holiday Bar Crawls Date: Saturday, December 6, 2008 Where: Center City Philadelphia Dress: Well, if you must - but keep an open mind Itinerary: 4-5pm: Bards - 2013 Walnut 5-7pm: Irish Pub - 20th & Walnut (2 hours at this sentimental favorite) 7-8pm: Black Sheep - 17th & Latimer (bow your heads) 8-9pm: Fadó - 15th & Locust (here's where the wheels start to come off) 9-10pm: J.L. Sullivan's - Broad & Walnut beneath the Bellevue (new to the crawl) 10-??: McGillin's - 13th & Drury - but if you needed to know that, you're not reading this right now!
Spread the word to your friends, and we'll see you on Saturday the 6th!
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12) VIDEO OF THE WEEK
Crazy race car driver: http://video.kenblockracing.com/flash/small_player/preloader.swf?vendor_id=204&media_id=9183&bgcolor=FFFFFF&autoplay=0
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13) NAVY SHIPS
IMPRESSIVE SHIPS ARRIVE AND DOCK AT PENN’S LANDING IN HONOR OF ARMY/NAVY WEEKEND
Ships Visit the Philadelphia Waterfront for the 109th edition of the interservice rivalry, and the 82nd game to be played in Philadelphia.
Arrive: Tuesday December 2 and Thursday December 4
USNS Apache (T-ATF 172) USS Bulkeley, DDG 84 USS Oscar Austin, DDG 79
Four Naval Academy Yard Patrol Vessels
WHERE: The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing, Market Street and Columbus Boulevard. Philadelphia, PA
WHAT: Philadelphia gets a special opportunity for an up-close look at two of the U.S. Navy’s most impressive ships, a Naval Service Ship, and smaller Naval Academy vessels. The Ships will be open for FREE public tours Saturday December 6 from 12 Noon-4pm and Sunday December 7 from 12 Noon-4pm.
For up-to-date information about all the Army / Navy events happening this weekend, logon to www.PhillyLovesArmyNavy.com.
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14) PECO rates reduced for the winter
PECO officials announced earlier this week that the company will reduce its natural gas rates by nearly 19 percent to reflect wholesale prices. The commodity charge was also reduced in September by 5 percent, but earlier this year it had been increased by 28 percent. An average gas-heat customer using 160 Ccf of gas per month would see the rate decrease from $261.58 to $213.43. The rate change will go into effect on Dec. 1, however customers should note that for the first time in 20 years, the delivery cost will increase.
Source: The Intelligencer; 11/25/08
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15) QUOTES
A) Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power. - Abraham Lincoln
B) Anger is momentary madness, so control your passion or it will control you. - Quintus Horatius Flaccus (Horace)
C) Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant. - Quintus Horatius Flaccus (Horace)
D) In the best of times, plan for the worst. In the worst of times, plan for the best.
e) The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard, but must be felt with the heart. - Helen Keller
F) Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. - Judy Garland
G) Remember always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one. - Eleanor Roosevelt
H) We can't reach old age by another man's road. - Mark Twain
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16) Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Mission Grill
Grab that Ugly Christmas Sweater out of the mothballs and wear it to Mission Grill's "Ugly Christmas Sweater Party" on Saturday, December 6th! Enjoy a $30 Open Bar from 10pm-1am! Dance the night away with all your friends...plus make fun of their ugly sweaters too! To book a reservation or a table, contact Jen at jmaher@publichouseusa.com today. See...Aunt Ethel's present to you IS going to be fun after all!
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17) RENTAL
Gorgeous 2 BR, 2 bath apartment on Green St. in the Art Museum district. Spacious, bright, hardwood floors, working fireplace, w/d, new appliances, private ROOF DECK overlooking the city. Absolutely beautiful - it's the best deal in Philadelphia. Friendly, safe neighborhood with easy parking. Walking distance to Whole Foods, gym, Center City. Rent $1750. Available January 1st. MUST SEE!! Call Margaret at (267) 495-6689 to make an appointment today!
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18) Cambodia Children's Fundraiser
One World Many Heart Silent Auction
Host: Brittany Policastro Location: Ortlieb's Jazz Haus, 847 N 3rd Street, Philedelphia, PA 19123 US When: Sunday, December 7, 3:00PM to 7:00PM Cost: $15.00 per person
Please show your support and join me for this silent auction to benefit the Cambodia Children's Fund and help me reach my goal of raising $20,000 by December 31, 2008. ALL of the money raised will go directly towards this goal. There will be great drink specials, a raffle, live music from the amazing Tania Alexandra www.taniaalexandra.com and wonderful gift certificates, services and other items to bid on. The highlight of the auction will be a 7 night stay in Costa Rica at the luxurious Arenas Del Mar Beach and Nature Resort originally priced at $4,200 for the week. www.arenasdelmar.com The room holds four guest comfortably so get your friends and family together and take advantage of this amazing oppurtunity. Chirstmas will be right around the corner and their will be tons of great gifts to bid on. Invite as many people as you wish! Make sure to bring your check book. Donations and bids will be accepted through cash and check only. Cost is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Again, ALL of the funds raised from this event will be going to support children just like the ones you see here. Please embrace the holiday spirit of giving and attend this very special event. For more information in the One World Many Hearts Project or to make a donation please visit www.oneworldmanyhearts.com
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19) Entrepreneurs' Forum
The Road Ahead: Surviving and Thriving in Today's Economy
The Entrepreneurs' Forum of Greater Philadelphia is dedicated to helping you achieve your dreams. On Tuesday December 9, 2008 you are invited to hear a panel of industry advisors discuss the state of current entrepreneurial environment in the Delaware Valley. They will discuss banking, venture capital, legal and marketing/sales to complete a 360 degree view of how to survive and thrive in today's economy.
During the discussion, you will learn… How to make the most of your banking relationships How to tap into alternative sources of funding How to shore up your key relationships to minimize risk and exposure Why now is the time to strike with your marketing and sales campaign
To register for this FREE event, e-mail your contact info to info@efgp.org or call 215-640-3339.
December 9th 5:30-8:00 p.m. Federal Reserve Bank Register Now!: info@efgp.org
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20) YPN EVENT
YPN Event at Chickie's & Pete's
Join other young professionals for networking at Chickie's & Pete's of South Philadelphia on Wednesday, December 10 at 6:00 p.m. Owner and entrepreneur, Pete Ciarrocchi, will share his success story, discussing how he got his start and his vision for the Greater Philadelphia community.
Previously voted the #3 sports bar in the country by ESPN, Chickie’s & Pete’s at 1526 Packer Avenue in Philadelphia features 750-seats, a 70 foot bar, a 12 foot television screen and a staff of 100-plus! A great location, a knowledgeable speaker and those famous “crab fries” make this event one you won't want to miss!
Additionally, YPN will also be kicking off its annual toy drive for McClure Elementary school, so bring a gift and brighten a child’s holiday season this year.
This event is presented in partnership with GPTMC, St. Joseph’s University Haub School of Business, TD Bank and ModSpace. For more information or to register, click here or contact Nicholas Favreau at 215-790-3677. http://www.greaterphilachamber.com/newsletter/affiliates_2.asp
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Once you've been skiing or riding with us, we're sure that the Catskills will be your favorite place to make a few turns. Just two hours from the metro New York area and less than four hours from PHILADELPHIA, Windham and Hunter offer big mountain skiing and riding without driving all day to get it. That's why we created the WINTER CARD.
For just $129, you get Four Days of skiing and riding: Two Days lift access at Windham Mountain and Two Days lift access at Hunter Mountain
Turn your friends or relative on to the Catskills this holiday season with a Winter Card. But don't put it off – the Winter Card is only on sale through December 25, 2008. Purchase your Winter Cards at select ski shows or online. One Winter Card per guest please.
Questions? Call the Hunter ticket office at 800-HunterMtn ext. 2200 or the Windham ticket office at 800-SkiWind ext. 1100. http://www.windhammountain.com/ and http://www.huntermtn.com/huntermtn/tickets-passes/winter-card.aspx
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21) MINIDATE
Speed up your love life with several dates in one night! MiniDate boasts a no pressure approach to speed dating. Ages: 36-48 Only $15/ticket in advance ($25-CASH ONLY at the door). Enjoy Happy Hour drink specials until 7:30pm! Door prizes will be awarded! Pre-registration is strongly suggested. Full details can be found and tickets can be purchased at: www.MiniDate.com For full details, visit our website: http://philadelphia.singlesevents.com/event_details.asp?eventid=737
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22) SAVE THE DATE :: BLACK TIE BOWLING
January 24th Wynnewood Lanes www.blacktiebowlingphilly.com info@blacktiebowlingphilly.com The most fun and unique Black Tie in the area
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23) SUNDAY NIGHTS IN PHILLY
http://www.sundaephiladelphia.com/
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