Midnight in Paris

So, I'm not a big Woody Allen fan, perhaps it's a generational thing, I dunno.  Regardless, he managed to score big time with this flick.  We all know he is a gifted screenwriter, and I'm not sure if it's directly attributed to him or his crew, but this film truly captures the essence of Paris.  Spot on.  C'est Magnifique. 

                                                                                 

The Siick EDM Collaboration

“Breakn’ A Sweat” is a collaboration by Skrillex and three of the members of The Doors (Ray, Robby and John) for the Re:Generation Music Project.  Skrillex was recently nominated for 5 Grammy Awards and it was the 1st time ever for an EDM musician in the Best New Artist category.  LIGHT MY FIRE, please.

 

For the Winter

                                Cracks - Freestylers feat. Belle Humble - Flux Pavillion Remix

NBA 2011-12 - Oh What A Beginning

So, TNT and the NBA opened up the 2011-12 NBA season quite unlike any other - what with the shortened season and it being Christmas Day.  But even more so, this "mesmerizing video mashup of past and present NBA greats dubbed 'NBA Forever' - M. Klopman Huff Post" left us awestruck and reminded us of the power of nostalgia.
Have a watch.  If you grew up idolizing some of these men, you will most certainly admire this creation.  The basketball world is buzzing about it.  Stellar way to begin a season. 

 

My Christmas Present to Myself - Because Every Man Should Own A Good Watch - Just One Though - Timing...It's Everything

Who Got The Moves?

Ferry Corsten in DC Tonight - Fave Corsten Track

 

 

The Security of Social ...Stuff. Feeling Secure or Secretly Shattered?

Why Social Security Is Still Falling Apart

By Chuck Saletta Posted 11:00AM 12/14/11  

Social Security is in dire financial straits, but that's nothing new for this long-troubled program.

Social Security spent $49 billion more in 2010 than it took in as tax collections. By the time 2011 ends, it expects to outspend collections by another $46 billion. At this rate, the program's much-touted "Trust Fund" is expected to be depleted by 2036; without that fund, benefits are expected to fall to about three-quarters of current promised levels.

As bad as that may sound, it's actually business as usual. To cover the massive obligations of the plan, tax rates have risen repeatedly over its history. What started as 2% of the first $3,000 of income (half paid by you, half by your employer) is now scheduled to be 12.4% of the first $110,100 of income in 2012. On top of that, the "full retirement age" is creeping up from 65 to 67, which effectively means younger workers will be paying more for a longer time to get their full benefits.

Even with repeated efforts to shore up the program by raising taxes and cutting benefits, Social Security's collapse seems virtually inevitable.

The Perils of Aging

A huge part of the problem is driven by demographics.

• People are living longer and having fewer children. Those who were born in and before the 1930s -- the era when Social Security got started -- simply weren't expected to live all that far into their 60s, much less past the retirement age of 65.
• The American birthrate has fallen steadily, too -- from 18.7 live births per 1,000 population in 1935 to 13.8 per 1,000 in 2009.
• To top it off, the economy has of course been less than stellar for the past few years, resulting in a smaller percentage of the working age population actually working. The civilian labor-force participation rate is down to 63.9% as of November 2011 -- down from 66.6% a decade earlier.

These demographic trends have been a long-term challenge for Social Security, the solvency of which depends heavily on having a large workforce supporting a small number of retirees. The economic weakness only makes it worse.

About That "Trust Fund"...

Now that Social Security is paying out more than it collects in taxes, another problem with its funding mechanism is becoming apparent.

The Trust Fund is something of an accounting fiction, stuffed with U.S. Treasury debt. The taxes collected have long ago been spent, with any Social Security-specific surplus collections going to fund other programs.

As Social Security no longer provides surplus funds to the Treasury, its deficit is something of a double whammy. First, the Treasury loses that source of revenue, and second, it needs to make up the IOUs being redeemed. That results in an even deeper general revenue deficit, higher taxes, and/or the need to lower spending on other government programs.

Put it all together, and the one thing becomes abundantly clear: Social Security won't last forever in its current form. The key questions are "What will change?" and "When will it happen?"

The Risks to Your Retirement

While nothing is certain until the laws actually change, those who are currently receiving Social Security will likely be spared the brunt of the changes. About the biggest risk facing current recipients is the potential that the "Cost of Living Adjustment" may be altered in a way that lowers the rate at which benefits are adjusted upward for inflation. Nobody is seriously talking about cuts to current recipients' benefits, just slowing the rate of growth for those payments.

It's those who are more than 10 years from retirement that have the most to worry about. If nothing changes, benefits will be forcibly reduced (in nominal terms, not just inflation-adjusted ones) when the Trust Fund's accounting value vanishes about 15 years after that point. People more than 10 years from retirement have a real chance of still being around to feel the pain of those reductions and/or of still working as taxes are raised to try to cover the shortfall.

If you are in the age group staring down likely substantial cuts in your future benefits, the sooner you get started saving to cover that gap, the better your own retirement can be. Start with these three steps you can take to improve your chances of winding up financially comfortable, even if Social Security does eventually fall apart completely.

Motley Fool contributor Chuck Saletta welcomes your comments.

The List - Film, Music, Sports, Politics - the Women of 2011

This is my blog, and so I can provide you with my personal insight, my opinion of who I think were the top female movers n shakers, the influence makers,  the Women of 2011.  I'll keep it short and sweet, but rest assured, I have thought this one out - long and hard.  These girls have it all - the looks, the brains, and yes, for some...even the brawn.  Congratulations on putting your stamp on the world.  In 2011 and for the remainder of - celebrate justifiably - THE WORLD IS YOURS.


FILM:

Natalie Portman - In the afterglow of the Black Swan, it is fair to say Natalie Portman has etched her place amongst the best actresses of our generation.  Versatile, indeed.  Thor?  Wtf?  Good movie.  Good Choice.  Well done.

MUSIC:

Lady Gaga - Now, I know what you're thinking.  Geez Michael, be more original.  And yet, no matter how  I try to convince myself otherwise - this femme fatale blew her competition, the world, everything and everyone, out of the water, by far.  She grossed a whopping $90 million USD in 2011 alone, more than double what Taylor Swift earned, $45 million.  People, as unfortunate as it may seem, in this industry, that which we call music, money is power.  And so it is...Congratulations, Momma Monster.  Wonderful bum.

SPORTS:

Hope Solo - With the incredible run the US Women's Soccer Team had in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup - it is fair to say Solo had no problems taking her act on the road alone.  She was made for this journey.  She is the one.  And so Hope, even though your road must be traveled solo - WE GOT YOUR BACK, ALWAYS.

POLITICS:

Christine Lagarde -  It's been easier to forget DSK with Christine at the helm, no?  As the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, this striking woman seems poised for even more.  And thus, as we shadily sidestep economics for politics - I hastily offer a heed of warning to Mr. Bruni, "Watch out, good sir."

Honey! Call the Cops! The neighbors are playing their commericals too loud again!!!

Shhh! FCC to Enforce Law Banning Loud TV Commercials

By Eamon Murphy Posted 1:40PM 12/14/11 Technology

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Online advertising is growing faster, but television still consumes most of the industry's money -- globally, $6.50 out of every $10 spent. But in the United States, TV advertisers are going to have to work more quietly.

On Wednesday, the Federal Communications Commission announced plans to implement the 2010 Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act -- aka the CALM Act -- in which Congress gave the commission, for the first time, authority to address the problem of excessive commercial loudness," according to an FCC press release.

"The rules adopted today require that commercials have the same average volume as the programs they accompany," the FCC explained. "They carry out Congress' mandate to give viewers relief from overloud commercials while avoiding unnecessary burdens on television stations and MVPDs [multichannel video programming distributors]."

For years, the message from TV watchers has been loud and clear. "The Commission has received almost 6,000 complaints or inquiries about loud commercials since 2008," FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in a statement. "So I'm pleased that we have crafted a process that will protect consumers from inappropriately loud commercials, while remaining sensitive to resource constraints of small broadcasters and subscription TV providers." It will be the job of broadcasters, cable and telecommunications companies, satellite and other TV providers to ensure that the volume doesn't spike when programming gives way to commercial interruption.

In a separate statement, Commissioner Robert M. McDowell said that TV commercials "will never be the same," mentioning in particular the hyper-vocal pitches for OxyClean, ShamWow!, and HeadOn.

Although he offered general support for the FCC's efforts, McDowell expressed reservations about some of the rules being adopted. Specifically, he said that the FCC might be exceeding its legislative mandate in making broadcasters and MVPDs "ultimately liable for passing through loud, embedded commercials by programmers -- over which broadcasters and MVPDs have no control and we [the FCC] have no jurisdiction." He also said it is possible to interpret the language of the CALM Act "as providing the Commission authority to regulate the volume of commercials, but not promos." Promos -- advertisements promoting television programming -- were not exempted from the FCC's rules.

"I am unsure whether we are getting the legislative intent right," McDowell concluded, "but I remain hopeful."

Unfortunately, the rules don't go into effect until next December -- leaving us all to face another 12 months of intermittent blaring from loudmouthed pitchmen, actors playing sick people, and talking animals.

Time - Person of the Year - Congrats Still In Order? Hmm...

Time Person Of The Year 2011: 'The Protester' (VIDEO, PHOTO, POLL)

First Posted: 12/14/11 07:41 AM ET Updated: 12/14/11 09:44 AM ET

"The protester" has been named Time's Person of the Year.
The magazine unveiled the choice on Wednesday morning. Managing editor Richard Stengel also revealed the decision on the "Today" show. Stengel said that finalists included Kate Middleton, Admiral William McRaven and Congressman Paul Ryan.
Steve Jobs and Rep. Gabrielle Giffords did not make the short list because they appeared elsewhere in the magazine. "It's not a lifetime achievement award," Stengel said of the award.
Time has bestowed the famous distinction on one person (or group of people, or, in the case of such choices as "The Earth" and "You," an idea) every year since 1927. Last year's choice was Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The cover of the magazine mentions protesters from all over the world, ranging from the masses who fueled the Arab spring to the anarchists in Greece to the Occupy Wall Street movement. In Time's cover story, journalist Kurt Andersen wrote,

It's remarkable how much the protest vanguards share. Everywhere they are disproportionately young, middle class and educated. Almost all the protests this year began as independent affairs, without much encouragement from or endorsement by existing political parties or opposition bigwigs. All over the world, the protesters of 2011 share a belief that their countries' political systems and economies have grown dysfunctional and corrupt — sham democracies rigged to favor the rich and powerful and prevent significant change. They are fervent small-d democrats.

Below, watch Stengel's announcement on "Today," and see all of Time's choices for Person of the Year dating back to 1980. Tell us what you think of the latest Person of the Year in our poll below.
The cover:

Bacon...it's lovely.

Discovered this tune whilst in London - and I LOVE IT.

For the few of you nice enough to read my blog - WHEN YOU ARE OUT AND ABOUT, PLEASE DO WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY HOLIDAYS, IT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE...and we all need 'the love' this year more than in years past. HAPPY HOLIDAYS, I'M WITH YOU, FRIENDS.

THE TOP 25 CLUBS IN AMERICA - CONGRATS LIV, YOU DESERVE IT

The Top 25 Clubs in the U.S.

by Clubplanet

12.07.2011

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Here at Clubplanet we take our clubs seriously, but covering so many hotspots all over the country can be a little exhausting at times. With that said, we’ve decided to look at the bigger picture and take note of what we think are the top 25 clubs in the U.S. From Miami to Los Angeles, New York to Las Vegas, we’ve selected 25 nightclubs that we think are the top hotspots deserving of your attention should you be in their vicinity. If you’re a big clubber like we are, you’re definitely going to want to take some notes.
#1 Top Club in the U.S. – LIV
4441 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
LIV nightclub is quite possibly the biggest club that Miami has to offer, but it’s also one of the most elegant. It’s all about rubbing elbows with Miami’s A-list socialites at this venue, and prepare to spend some serious cash at the bar. The VIP experience at LIV is the quintessential party experience for anyone looking to build great memories, making this one of the best clubs in the U.S.
#2 Top Club in the U.S. – The Pool After Dark
777 Harrah's Boulevard
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
If you're not into the prototypical nightlife "club" experience, this is one nightlife destination that combines the best of a hotel pool, with the characteristics of a top-notch nightclub. The Pool After Dark at Harrah's is the venue that we recommend to every one of our readers. The combination of their pool, music and massive glass dome that ensure the same temperature year round, makes this one of the best nightclubs in the nation.
#3 Top Club in the U.S. – Boom Boom Room
848 Washington Street
New York, NY 10014
If you're the type that really likes to be in a nightlife space where you can rub elbows with A-listers in a candid environment, it doesn't get much better than New York City's infamous Boom Boom Room. Not only does it boast one of the best views that the Big Apple has to offer, but their signature cocktails are made with precision and attention to detail. Unless you have a black AmEx or are well connected, don't expect to frequent this place.
#4 Top Club in the U.S. – XS
3131 Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89109
There’s something about cabanas that really gets the nightlife crowd interested in a club, that’s why when the makers of XS in Las Vegas decided to put in 30 cabanas, it was just a recipe for success. Now one of the top clubs in the nation, XS is a common stop for anyone looking to have a great time in Sin City.
#5 Top Club in the U.S. – Mansion
1235 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Once you land in Miami and start filling out your itinerary, the first thing you should mark on there is Mansion nightclub, one of the top clubs in the U.S. The most popular nightclub in Miami since its doors opened, it attracted names like Paris Hilton, Diddy, The Kardashians and many more. This place is always a hit regardless of the night you choose to attend, and that definitely makes it one of the best clubs in the U.S.
#6 Top Club in the U.S. – TAO
3355 Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Las Vegas receives an insane amount of visitors on a daily basis, and it’s pretty fair to say that a majority of these guys want to visit TAO, one of the best nightclubs in the U.S. There are an insane amount of options in Las Vegas, but TAO sets itself apart in service and décor. The 10,000 square foot club is nothing but nightlife energy, enticing options to indulge in any mood.
#7 Top Club in the U.S. – Pacha
618 W 46th Street
New York, NY 10036
With locations around the world, Pacha already has a reputation for hosting the best big-name DJs, so it comes as no surprise that Pacha NYC gets great talent and packs the house week in and week out. The 30,000-square-foot nightclub is split into four levels, each decorated in their own unique way (dancers grinding in showers, for example). When the night falls and the DJ takes the stage, Pacha turns into a maze of crazy characters all geared-up for a night of dancing until the early morning hours.
#8 Top Club in the U.S. – Rain
Palms Casino Resort
Las Vegas, NV 89103
There’s nothing like a big nightclub in Las Vegas, and Rain always comes to mind first for us. First brought to fame by MTV’s The Real World, Rain is the quintessential nightclub, big, lavish, great sound, awesome lighting. They bring in some of the best entertainment in the world, as well as some of the biggest crowds on a consistent basis.
#9 Top Club in the U.S. – Tryst
3131 Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89109
There’s a waterfall inside of this nightclub, if that isn’t enough to get you interested, then pair it up with the lagoon that sits below collecting all of the water. Tryst is truly a magical club, with 84 VIP tables inside and outside catering to the true party people that are looking to make their Las Vegas experience top-notch.
#10 Top Club in the U.S. – SET
320 Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, FL 33139
SET nightclub is without a doubt one of the most attractive nightlife venues in all of Miami. While it may not stack up in size like other clubs in South Beach just around the corner, it makes up for it in its aesthetics. The décor at SET nightclub is impeccable and transports you into a chic atmosphere like none other, which is why we chose it as one of the best clubs in the U.S.
#11 Top Club in the U.S. – LAVO NYC
39 East 58th Street
New York, NY 10022
Talent buying can make or break the reputation of a nightclub, especially in New York City. That's where LAVO shines. They've already booked some of the best talent in dance music from around the world, and continue to do so on a consistent basis. The fact that it's prominent name also carries massive weight on the west (LAVO Las Vegas) truly makes it a nightlife powerhouse on the national scene.
#12 Top Club in the U.S. – Nikki Beach Club
1 Ocean Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33139
If you’re looking for a globally known name in entertainment, then look no further than Nikki Beach Club. Even locals that frequent this venue week in and out feel like they’re on vacation once they step foot onto their sandy cabanas. The staff always makes sure to deliver superb service, and the drinks and menu are always at their best.
#13 Top Club in the U.S. – Playhouse
6506 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Los Angeles’ nightlife scene is as unique and diverse as any in the nation, but when it comes to a great club that can stack up to the best around the world, it’s all about Playhouse in Hollywood. This isn’t your typical small hotspot, but a 13,000 square-foot palace that brings in some of the best DJs from around the world.
#14 Top Club in the U.S. – Webster Hall
125 E 11th Street
New York, NY 10003
Webster Hall is commonly said to be the first modern nightclub in America. Since it first opened its doors in 1886, Webster Hall has grown to become a staple in nightlife and live music for some of the biggest club DJs in the world. In 2004, Prince declared Webster Hall “The Best Stage in New York City” and who are we to argue with Prince? Don’t be alarmed if you see stilt-walkers, trapeze artists, fire-breathers or go-go dancers roaming around one of the parties at Webster Hall. It’s all common for this historic nightclub.
#15 Top Club in the U.S. – JET Nightclub
Mirage Resort & Casino
Las Vegas, NV 89109
If you’re making a list of the top U.S. nightclubs in the nation, there’s no way that you could exclude Jet Nightclub. They’ve been booking some of the best parties in the nation on a consistent basis, and when you pair that with the sophistication of the staff and luxurious accommodations for their VIP guests, you definitely have one of the best club in the U.S.
#16 Top Club in the U.S. – Beta
1909 Blake Street
Denver, CO 80202
When guys like Steve Lawler and Pete Tong say that Beta is one of their favorite places to play in the U.S., then you know there's something special about the Denver, Colorado nightclub. The sound in the place is absolutely crushing, combine that with the A-list talent they bring into the booth and you have one of the best nightclubs in the U.S. This is the kind of club you'd typically find in Europe, but it's nestled right in the heart of Denver.
#17 Top Club in the U.S. – Cielo
18 Little W. 12th Street
New York, NY 10014
For years, Cielo has been one of the toughest doors in the NYC scene. But having a tough door isn’t the reason why this place is ranked on our list of the top 25 clubs in the world. From 2004 – 2009 the posh party haven has racked up tons of titles, including “Best Deep House Club” (New York Magazine, 2006), “Best Club” (ClubWorld, 2008) and “Best Party” for Dance.Here.Now (ClubWorld, 2009). Perhaps it’s the world-famous DJs this club attracts or perhaps it’s the reputation that continuously propels Cielo’s success. Either way, the nightclub has gained a reputation that makes it easily one of the best clubs in New York. And you know what they say, “Once you’ve made it in New York City…”
#18 Top Club in the U.S. – Spy Bar
646 N Franklin Street
Chicago, IL 60610
Spy Bar is considered by many (including us) to be the best club in Chicago. Just last month the club brought in incredible and diverse talent including A-Trak, Treasure Fingers, Damien Lazarus and Peanut Butter Wolf, and even the off-nights with resident DJs Kalendr, Inphinty and Dino G have the crowd tearing up the dance floor. Friday nights get the big name guys, but they never forget to show the Chi-town talent some love, which is why we consider Spy Bar to be one of the top 25 nightclubs in the U.S.
#19 Top Club in the U.S. – Avalon Hollywood
1735 Vine Street
Los Angeles, CA 90028
If there’s one place where everyone in Los Angeles could agree is a great nightlife venue, it’s Avalon Hollywood, one of the biggest nightclubs in California, and one of the top clubs in the U.S.  It’s a big face that packs in a lot of bodies, but most importantly it brings in the best talent in the city, from bands to world class DJs.
#20 Top Club in the U.S. – mur.mur
One Borgata Way
Atlantic City, NJ 08401
The name says it all. In Atlantic City mur.mur is the closest thing you can get to an actual New York City club. What we like best about mur.mur is that there isn’t anything cheesy to it, like a strobe light or neon lazers zapping into your eyes. Instead you get soft shades that create a mood in the club that screams sex.
#21 Top Club in the U.S. – Club Space
34 NE 11th Street
Miami, FL 33132
Club Space is known throughout the world by house music heads and one of THE best clubs in the U.S. for club music, and it definitely is. Week in and week out they bring in the biggest names in electronic music and create memories for locals and visitors that they take with them for years to come. Their Terrace is without a doubt one of the best places to be on a Sunday morning when the sun creeps up on downtown Miami.
#22 Top Club in the U.S. – The Highlands
6801 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Two words come to mind when someone brings up The Highlands to us, spacious and classy. While a majority of places around the country are smaller and seem to bring in that aura of class, this place has the space to do it. There’s something for everyone at this Hollywood hotspot, so whether it’s hip-hop, house or classics, this place has it for you, making it one of the top club in the U.S.
#23 Top Club in the U.S. – Fur Nightclub
33 Patterson Street
Washington, DC 20002
With four rooms that are open four nights a week, there’s a vast array of experiences that you can have a Fur nightclub. There are always great specials at the bar and you can always expect to see young faces in the crowd that are looking to leave the troubles of the 9 to 5 at the door and let loose on the dance floor.
#24 Top Club in the U.S. – Rumor Nightclub
100 Warrenton Street
Boston, MA 02116
If there’s one thing we like in a nightclub it’s variety, and that’s exactly what Rumor has in Boston. Whether it’s house, Latin, R&B or reggae music, chances are you’ll get exactly what you’re looking for at Rumor.  This place gets absolutely packed on a consistent basis which is always a good marker of a top nightclub in our books.
#25 Top Club in the U.S. – Muse Lounge
717 6th Street
Washington, DC 20001
When it comes to nightclubs everyone wants the best experience that they can find in town, when in DC that experience is at Muse Nightclub and Lounge. The sultry venue brings in great entertainment and the sexiest faces in the Washington area. Their VIP area is one of the best and continues to strive to bring its customers unparalleled service.

Eric Prydz Full Set at Alexandria Palace - 11/26/2011

Thanks, Eric Prydz, for this.  I get to re - live it, all over again.  Cheers, mate. 

http://soundcloud.com/eric-prydz/eric-prydz-pres-epic-alexandra

Yu Darvish - Watch it now, here he comes.

Yu Darvish wants to play in majors

ESPN.com news services

 TOKYO -- Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish ended months of speculation Thursday by saying he intends to make a move to Major League Baseball.

The 25-year-old right-hander, considered the best pitcher in the Japanese professional leagues, wrote on his blog that he had decided to use the posting system, which allows MLB teams to bid for the negotiating rights to Japanese players who have yet to become free agents.


 “Darvish is the No. 1 pitcher in Japan, but we want him to become the ace of the world. ” -- Nippon Ham team representative Toshimasa Shimada

"I have decided to use the posting system," he said. "I wanted to tell my fans directly, so that is why I am posting this on my blog."
Darvish, the son of an Iranian father and a Japanese mother, went 18-6 with a 1.44 ERA this season for the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters. He had 276 strikeouts to lead the Pacific League.
The Fighters had given him approval to negotiate with a major league club through the posting system. Daisuke Matsuzaka and Ichiro Suzuki went to the major leagues under the system.
"I owe a lot of thanks to my team," Darvish said, adding he would provide more details at an upcoming news conference.
Darvish pitched in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and was a member of the Japanese national team that won the 2009 World Baseball Classic.
The 6-foot-5 Darvish has superb control and throws seven effective pitches, including a two-seam fastball introduced during the 2010 season. It's expected he would make a top-of-the-rotation major league starter.
"Darvish is the No. 1 pitcher in Japan, but we want him to become the ace of the world," Nippon Ham team representative Toshimasa Shimada said.

[+] Enlarge

Kevork Djansezian/Getty ImagesYu Darvish, 25, went 18-6 with a league-leading 1.44 ERA this season for the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters. His 276 strikeouts led the Pacific League.

Darvish turned pro in 2005 at 18. His pro career got off to a rocky start when he was caught smoking in a pachinko parlor on an off day during his first spring training, despite not being old enough to legally smoke or gamble at the time.
After going 5-5 with a 3.53 ERA in his rookie season with the Fighters, Darvish had a breakout year in 2006, going 12-5 with a 2.89 ERA and 115 strikeouts.
In 2007, Darvish won the Eiji Sawamura Award presented to the top pitcher in Japanese professional baseball after posting a 15-5 record with a 1.82 ERA and a league-leading 210 strikeouts.
Once posted by the Fighters, MLB clubs can submit sealed bids for the right to negotiate with Darvish. If the Fighters accept the highest bid, the MLB club that placed that bid will have 30 days to finalize a contract with the player. If no deal is reached, Darvish returns to the Fighters for another season and the Fighters must return the posting fee to the MLB club.
The Texas Rangers certainly will be one team with interest. They've scouted Darvish in the past and genearl manager Jon Daniels has seen him pitch in person.
The New York Yankees also are expected to make a bid, but have been coy about their intentions after their bad experiences with Kei Igawa, who failed to make an impact in the majors.
In 2006, former Seibu Lions pitcher Matsuzaka drew a $51.1 million posting fee from the Boston Red Sox, who signed him to a six-year, $52 million contract, taking the total package to more than $100 million.
The Yankees won the negotiating rights to shortstop Hiroyuki Nakajima of the Lions on Wednesday. The posting fee for the 29-year-old was $2.5 million.
Information from ESPNDallas.com's Richard Durrett, ESPNNewYork.com's Andrew Marchand and The Associated Pre

I am on the darkside tonight. If you're scared get out of my atmosfear - MEF

Agua Ardiente

Skrillex - Five Grammy Nominations

David Guetta, Others Laud Skrillex For Grammy Noms

Porter Robinson, Sofi and Tommy Lee congratulate Skrillex on his five Grammy nominations.

By Akshay Bhansali (@akshaytv)

Last week, it was announced that Sonny Moore, the rocker-turned-DJ/producer that has exploded onto the electronic music scene as Skrillex, has been nominated for five Grammy Awards. Included among the noms is Best New Artist, a first in Grammy history for a "DJ."

And while Skrill's Grammy salutes may have come as a shock to him when he heard the news while in Manchester, U.K., his EDM cohorts say the recognition makes perfect sense.
"I am just so happy for Skrillex, man!" his 19-year-old friend and former OWSLA tourmate, Porter Robinson said. "He definitely deserves it. I've been saying it all year, he's the most influential musician of this year, in any genre. Incredible sound designer. Incredible songwriter. Amazing performer."
EDM artist, friend and collaborator Sofi said, "He's been in bands before. He's an excellent songwriter. He can sing. He's just so versatile that I think that comes through in his music. He kind of brought this 'rock,' 'raw' element into electronic music. He's the punk rock of the new generation."
In 2011, Skrillex has whipped up hearty remixes (his remix of Benny Benassi and Gary Go's "Cinema" remains a fan favorite), released his EP More Monsters and Sprites, supplied songs for video games, launched his OWSLA record label, played massive festivals, jumped on Kaskade's new album and produced songs for Korn's new album — just to name a sliver of his endeavors.
Regardless of how Skrillex is categorized as an artist (he's often called a "dubstep" artist — a moniker he doesn't agree with), fans, critics and artists alike, from niche to pop, all seem to be onboard the Skrillex train.
"He's extremely talented, and I'm very happy for him," beamed dance music's most popular veteran, David Guetta. "It's a statement: I think it's really good that an artist from our community is nominated just as 'an artist.' Not as a 'dance' artist, you know? I think that it's good that [our] music is now getting the attention and the respect that all the other styles of music, like hip-hop, are getting."
To mark the Grammy recognition, Sonny's friends asked us to share their congratulations with him.
"Skrilly, congratulations, dude!" shouted Tommy Lee. "That's so rad, man. I'm sitting here thinking a year ago we were sitting in my studio and you were playing me your new sh--, and Blam! Grammy nods like a muthaf----! Congratulations, dude! Kill that sh--, brotha!"
"Sonny, man, I just want to congratulate you on the Grammys!" echoed Porter Robinson. "It's been an absolutely insane year. The tour that we did together, the OWSLA tour, was without question the best time of my life. You deserve this like nobody else, so congratulations!"
"Skrilly, congratulations on your many nominations!" Sofi exclaimed. "I'm just really thrilled for you buddy. You're awesomely talented and you know I've been a fan of yours since day one. I remember when you showed me your EP that came out on mau5trap (deadmau5' label) and I told you that you were going to get REAL busy! And guess what — I can't even get a hold of you anymore!" she laughed. "Good for you, buddy! Go get 'em!"
What do you think of Skrillex, his nominations and what he's been able to achieve this year? Sound off in the comments below!

1. Skrillex

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Goodnight, All.

My Goodness. Sing to Me.

Yes, I wear sandals in the snow. ...Building a Mystery

Good Morning - one and all.

I just wanna testify - I've been loving you too long...to stop now.

So Much Beauty in the Pain.

                                                               Tomorrow by Salif Keita

Love, Forever.

                                             One of the lesser known Belafonte tracks.  Love.

Christmas - it's a comin. I need something to push me into the Christmas Spirit. Hmm...let's just hope three ghosts don't come a knockin'.

THE SCOTTISH VIOLINIST. BENE

I WILL LOVE THIS, FOREVER.

Crazy Mondays!!! Just roll with it and push on through. I am...

Have some Optimistic Thoughts...

Good Morning, you Masters of the Universe. Have a strong week, yeah?

'Cause one of these ides he's gonna break free. One of the ides he's gonna break.

                                                            For a friend. Hold on, brother.

Watching a French indie flick called Jet Lag - starring Jean Reno and Juliet Binoche. It took over an hour for the two to get it on - a record for any French flick. LOL. :)

MOTHER - FATHER

Because everyone's looking for someone to dance around the world with. Must keep an open mind, Fleming :)

Knock us down. We keep getting back up. Again...and again...and again.

L.E.N.N.Y

 Lenny Kravitz - another inspiration.  Best believe.

Snow Patrol - Called Out in the Dark

Absolutely LOVE.  Rocking this all the way into the New Year.  Thank You, SP.

The Scottish Kung Fu Pandas

It would be nice to see others like me.  LOL.  Hopefully there will be more 'walking contradictions' than just the Starburst dude and I .  Still, is this the right thing to do?  Retrograde Step?  What do you think?

I wish this venture all the best - forging a sound relationship between Scotland and China is not only wise, but necessary, in my humble opinion.  BUT PLEASE, TAKE CARE OF THE TWO.  So rare, ...special.
 
via BBC NEWS, full article link below:

Edinburgh Zoo prepares for arrival of pandas from China

The two giant pandas begin the long journey from China to Scotland

Last-minute preparations are being made for the arrival of two giant pandas which are en route from China to their new home, Edinburgh Zoo.  Tian Tian and Yang Guang will arrive in Edinburgh at lunchtime on Sunday on a specially-chartered flight.  Officials hope their presence will boost tourism and the Scottish economy.
Animal welfare campaigners have criticised the zoo for accepting the pandas, saying it is a "primarily commercial deal".  The eight-year-old pair, the first giant pandas to live in the UK for 17 years, will stay at the zoo for at least 10 years.  It is hoped they will eventually breed.  They have left China on the Boeing 777F flight, the "FedEx Panda Express".  Gerald P Leary, president of FedEx Express Europe, said: "The specially-chartered flight follows months of preparation and planning to ensure the pandas' travel is safe and comfortable at every stage of their journey."  A vet and two animal handlers from Edinburgh Zoo and the Bifengxia Panda Base are on board.  The arrival date - which coincides with Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond's visit to China - had been kept under wraps until earlier this week.  Tian Tian, meaning "sweetness", and Yang Guang, meaning "sunshine", will have two weeks to settle in to their new enclosure before going on display to the public.

A plane has been specially chartered to bring the pandas to Edinburgh. Their arrival will mark the culmination of a five-year effort to bring the giant pandas to Scotland.

Zoo chiefs have described it as a "historic occasion" for the visitor attraction and the UK as a whole.  A spokeswoman for VisitScotland said: "The pandas will be a fantastic asset to Edinburgh Zoo, providing people with even more compelling reasons to visit this fantastic attraction and indeed the city itself.  "The zoo is offering a unique opportunity to see these charming animals, helping to encourage increased visitor numbers to Edinburgh and Scotland."  However, animal welfare campaigners have criticised the move, suggesting it is not a credible way to go about saving the giant panda. 'Retrograde step'  A spokeswoman for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) said: "Edinburgh Zoo is putting the 'con' in conservation by trying to hoodwink the public into believing that the salvation of pandas lies in warehousing these sensitive animals.  "Edinburgh Zoo knows that captive pandas are notoriously poor breeders and that only one zoo-reared panda has ever been reintroduced into the wild - that unfortunate animal died within a year.

 

Tian Tian has already been put into a crate for the long journey

"If the zoo were serious about helping pandas, they would be asking the public to donate to schemes that protect pandas in their native habitats."  Chris Draper, of the Born Free Foundation, said the panda deal was a "short-sighted and retrograde step".  He said: "Over time, I suspect we will see that this has less to do with conservation or education, and much more to do with resurrecting the fortunes of a fading visitor attraction.
"Tian Tian and Yang Guang are not 'flagships', nor even diplomatic gifts, but commodities in a primarily commercial exchange."

Online footage of the two animals, from four hidden "panda-cams" in their enclosures, is expected to attract viewers from around the world.  Zoo bosses are hopeful that the pandas will give birth to cubs - the first to be born in Scotland.  The Scottish government said the loan of the pandas symbolised a "growing friendship" between Scotland and China.

 

All the panda merchandise is already on display in the Edinburgh Zoo gift shop.  Alex Salmond wants to strengthen ties between the governments and forge better cultural and business links during his trip to several mainland cities and Hong Kong.  The first minister's itinerary includes an address to a St Andrew's Day celebration in Beijing.  He will also visit the Eastern Qing Tombs, an ancient resting place for Chinese emperors which is being digitally mapped in a project led by Historic Scotland.  And he will travel to Shandong Province to discuss renewable energy projects and visit the Shenzhen special economic zone.

Mr Salmond said: "I am delighted to be visiting the great nation of China again. As the world's fastest growing major economy, it is vital that government, business and cultural organisations enhance our already strong ties with China.  "We are vigorously promoting Scotland as an attractive place for investment, trade, research, tourism and cultural associations - and that will be my focus when meeting our hosts in China."
This is Mr Salmond's third trip to China and follows a Chinese delegation's visit to Scotland in January as part of a four-day trade mission to the UK.  Are you going to Edinburgh Zoo to welcome the pandas? Send us your stories and photos of your visit using the form below.

Send your pictures and videos to yourpics@bbc.co.uk or text them to 61124 (UK) or +44 7624 800 100 (International). If you have a large file you can upload here.
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http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-16016926

Don't Look Back...

Good Morning, World!  Move Along Like I know You Do.

TMIMITW - He Lives Vicariously...Through Himself.

via Huffington Post
written by: Andrew Burmon

When I tell my editor about the conversation I've just had with Jonathan Goldsmith, Dos Equis pitchman and "The Most Interesting Man In The World"(TMIMITW), she shakes her head and says, "Unbelievable."
I've told her that during the course of the interview, Willy, Goldsmith's 110-pound Anatolian shepherd, caught a squirrel and placed it on the pile of wood his septuagenarian master chopped and stacked behind his home at the foot of a mountain in rural Vermont. This turn of events is not exactly unbelievable -- Goldsmith's love of dogs is as well-documented as canines' predilection for squirrels -- but it does strain credulity: Goldsmith's job is to embody a lived-in masculinity so hyperbolic that his off-screen persona should disappoint. His private manliness is shocking precisely because he is publicly a Madison Avenue creation.
Talking to Goldsmith is like receiving unsolicited advice on insurance from a passing duck.
Here are a few facts about the man behind TMIMITW, the well-traveled actor who plays the world's best-traveled pitchman: He has "weathered a few gales while sailing in the Caribbean;" he has gotten "a bit lost at sea;" he has "saved a hiker's life during a blizzard on Mount Whitney;" he enjoys "building stone walls in my spare time;" he has "supported the same charity for decades;" he wishes he'd "killed Muammar Ghadafi or Idi Amin maybe."
Goldsmith's wife posed him a question when he expressed concerns after being offered the Dos Equis gig, which put him in the fraternity of handsome young men who hawk beer on television.
"How can you be the most interesting man in the world if you haven't lived for a long time?"
Unlike characters in other commercials, TMIMITW has earned his self-assurance through experience. Consumers aren't meant to find him relate-able or even approachable. He's not someone you can be, but someone you can be with.
"People want to hang out with this guy," says Goldsmith, a former character actor whose accent in the ads is an imitation of his old friend Fernando Llamas.
Of course they do. TMIMITW has amazing stories, is frequently surrounded by very attractive women and knows how to order a drink. This is a man who is often a traveler and never been a tourist.
Goldsmith puts it this way: "Most people are safe in their own world and don't experience the total spectrum of life. Life is like a parade most people are watching."
TMIMITW is an advertisement not just for Dos Equis (their profits soared after his arrival, by the way), but for a certain immersive approach to the world. That the clips in Goldsmith's advertisements frequently resemble Jacques Cousteau films is no coincidence. The character is something not dissimilar to an explorer: He's a discoverer.
In an age when everyone strives to be intriguing, TMIMITW can't help it. He is unselfconscious yet profoundly self-aware, hard-nosed but friendly. He "lives vicariously through himself."
When I list the adventures documented in the ads to Goldsmith, asking him to tell me if he'd emulate his character's behavior in each situation, he says, "Yeah, I'd do that," a lot before annoyance creeps into his voice.
I inquire if he'd "live in the hills of the Serengeti for a summer after being gifted a wife by local tribesmen," and his reaction is telling: "Is she Catherine Deneuve beautiful or does she look like Snooki?" he asks. He says if it was the former situation, he'd probably do it.
"I'm pretty open to anything," he says. "If there is any reason to do it and the results won't be harmful, I'm probably in."
This is when Willy starts barking and Goldsmith laughs the same laugh that is barely audible some of his commercials, the baritone honk of air escaping lungs filled with whiskey fumes, cigars smoke and fresh air.
Stay thirsty my friend.  

                                              

Thrill seeker's bucket list: 50 experiences to try before you die - by CNN GO

Wow, from Skydiving in Nepal to cycling the Death Road in Bolivia to cliff diving in Mexico, if you're a thrillseeker, CNN Go's Top 50 list has got you covered.  Get your motor running... 

Courtesy of CNN Go - here's a snippet.

3. Enter the Cage of Death, Australia

The tastiest snacks always come in see-through wrappers.

Stare into the faces of some of Australia's biggest saltwater crocodiles for 15 minutes, separated by nothing more than a couple inches of perspex. Luckily the cage can house two people at one time, so there'll be someone there to hold your hand.
www.crocosauruscove.com; +61 8 8981 7522; US$159/232 for 1/2 persons

Read more: Thrill seeker's bucket list: 50 experiences to try before you die | CNNGo.com http://www.cnngo.com/explorations/play/50-thrilling-experiences-116798?page=0,0#ixzz1Z8l23e6R

Thank You, Mickey.

                 There are some movies that remain timeless.  Thank you Kim and Mickey.  Grazie mille.

The Baby Doll

Lemme break it down for you.  Here's how I do, stay with me now and don't get upset at my simplistic view.  Remember, it's just how I operate.  Apologies.

K, I group all women into one of three categories, as ALL women are attractive in their own right.  (Can't believe I'm spilling this out!)

1) You have your hot girl.
 

                                                                    Gisele Bündchen 


2) You have your cute girl. 

                                                                           Lily Allen


3) You have your baby doll.  She is special.  She is sexy, yes, but so adorably cute to boot.  WHEN YOU'RE OUT TONIGHT, SEE IF YOU CAN SEE THINGS MY WAY.  And if you find a baby doll, you should probably take notice :)  IMHO 

                                                                         Katy Perry

                                                                          Mila Kunis

                                                                  Amanda Seyfried