The event takes place in downtown Myrtle Beach on Ocean Boulevard, between 8th Ave and 11th Ave). Click here to see the map of the event area.

The event takes place on March 13, 2010 from 1:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Admission is free.

You can enjoy authentic Irish food and beverages. Live Music on stage with Cracker, Drivin’N'Cryin’, The Blue Dogs, Mark Bryan (from Hootie & The Blowfish w. special guests), Pamalee, Jonas Sees Colors, Lee Travis & The Bounty Hunters, Root Soul Project. Street Performers: Myrtle Beach Pipe and Drum Corps

For more information visit www.mbdowntownstpats.com

Once again  Myrtle Beach welcomes its visitors from the North to the Canadian-American Days.  From March 13-21, 2010, the Myrtle Beach area will welcome visitors with a expressive lineup of events, giveaways, and concerts throughout the Grand Strand.

Visitors can choose from a wide variety of events and activities, many free, including band concerts, the kickoff celebration expo, St. Patrick’s Day parade and dance, festivals and much more.

“Can-Am Days celebrates our snowbird visitors, who escape the cold and snow for the moderate climate and wealth of attractions of the Myrtle Beach area,” said Brad Dean, MBACC president and CEO. “Many of these visitors have been traveling to our destination for decades, and we strive to create new memories for each generation through our festivals.”

Canadian-American Days draws as many as 100,000 Canadian visitors and snowbirds. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce introduced Canada Days in 1961 to attract Canadian families during their spring school break. The name was changed to Canadian-American Days in 1963. It is regarded as the first international festival organized in South Carolina.

The 49th Annual Canadian-American Days will feature a variety of events. Here are some of the highlights:

March 15
The 282nd Army Band
7 p.m. (doors open 6 p.m.)
– Beach Church, 557 George Bishop Pkwy., Myrtle Beach. Free but tickets are required. Tickets available 8:30 a.m. March 8 at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce visitor centers at 1200 N. Oak St., Myrtle Beach, and 3401 U.S. 17 Business S., Murrells Inlet.

March 16
Canadian-American Days Kickoff Celebration Expo
10 a.m.-1 p.m.
– This expo officially kicks off Can-Am Days and features exhibitors, musical entertainment, prizes and giveaways. Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C, Myrtle Beach. Free to the public.

March 17
16th Annual South Strand Wildlife and History Day
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, exhibits and activities. The Taste of Murrells Inlet, a culinary extension of the event, will boast specialties from some of the finest restaurants in the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy., Murrells Inlet. Free for Canadians with valid ID. Adults: $5, S.C. senior citizens: $3.25, children 6-15: $3 and children 5 and under: free. SouthCarolinaParks.com/(843) 235-8755

March 18
Battle at the Beach presented by RBC Bank
11 a.m.
Second annual Canada vs. U.S.A. Friendly Competition for the RBC Cup, four-person scramble format. Greens fee, cart fee and prizes included. All tournament profits will be donated to Myrtle Beach Haven. Pine Lakes Country Club, 5603 Granddaddy Dr., Myrtle Beach. Fee $125 per person, $400 per foursome. CanAmDays.com for registration form and more information.
2010 RBC Bank Presents the 208th Army Reserve Band, 7 p.m. (doors open 6 p.m.) March 19 – Christ United Methodist Church, 2901 Fantasy Way, Myrtle Beach. Free but tickets are required. Tickets available 10 a.m.

For more information, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.

In Old Santee Canal Park it’s again time for the 11th Annual Shuckin’ in the Park Oyster Roast on Saturday March 13, 2010 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
There will be lots of fun for the whole family. Enjoy oysters, food tickets can be purchased inside the gate.
But great food  is not the only thing offered, you can also enjoy live music. The Custom 4+2 Band will be performing featuring beach music, oldies and popular music.

There is also fun activities for the children, including a jump castle. The fee is $5.00

The Old Santee Canal Park is located in Moncks Corner, SC.
Click here for directions.
For more information, visit Old Santee Canal Park website

Beverages will be available for purchase on-site. Gates Open
at 7pm. Live music begins at 8pm. On Saturday, March 13, 2010, the band 17 South is performing. 17 South’s music range from Motown, Beach cover tunes, and R&B.

Only 800 tickets will be sold, no advance purchase. But tickets ($10 per person) will be available for purchase at the Pier shop beginning at 4pm on the day of each event.

For more information, visit www.ccprc.com

The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is a vintage auto event featuring over 250 rare classics from seldom-seen private collections nationwide. The show takes place at The Golf Club of Amelia Island at Summer Beach adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island.

The event is often referred to as the ‘Pebble Beach of the East Coast’, attracting collectors and car enthusiasts from all over the world to the Northeast coast of Florida.

The event will honor the 40th anniversary of Porsche’s inaugural victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona and Le Mans and showcase a number of influential 917s. This model is by many considered to be one of the most significant racecars of our time. This year’s Concours will also honor Sir Stirling Moss, OBE and the 50th Anniversary of Moss’ victory in the last Cuban Grand Prix.

In 2009, more than 18,000 runners and walkers participated in one of the three featured events. The 15K is of course the main event with over 14,000 participants. Other events include the Florida Times-Union 5K for Charity and the adidas Junior River Run. These events had over 2,000 participants in 2009.

The course starts at the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, runs through downtown Jacksonville. The runners will cross the St. Johns River over the Main Street Bridge, then run through historic San Marco, down Atlantic Blvd to the St. Nicolas area. The runners will then cross the river again, for the second time. This time across the Hart Bridge, and then continue on Duval Street back at the stadium.
Click here for the course map

To make this into a great spectator event, there are live bands along the route performing at ten different locations. Thousands of spectators line the course every year. The Gate River Run is more than a race – it’s an annual celebration in Jacksonville.

More information www.gate-riverrun.com

Here is the top 10 favorite destinations for international travleers:

1. New York
2. Orlando
3. Los Angeles
4. Las Vegas
5. Miami
6. San Francisco
7. Chicago
8. Boston
9. Washington DC
10. Atlanta

However, cities that are not usually regarded as destinations for foreign tourists have also shown growth – places like Phoenix and Portland are attracting more international travelers this year, a trend that is expected to increase in the coming months. This is good news for us on the coast. It makes us believe that our unique and beautiful cities such as  Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville, St Augustine and Myrtle Beach soon will show up in the statistics too.

While Skyscanner’s data shows New York to be the favorite destination for foreign tourists, it is particularly preferred by the British – fully 25% of queries from the UK focused on the Big Apple. However, it only accounted for 5% amongst the Chinese. And Honolulu, which doesn’t make the list of Top10, is the second most popular city for Japanese tourists. Hawaii also attracts many Russian visitors, who interestingly also do many searches for destinations in Alaska.

Which nationality prefers visiting the coast of Georgia, South Carolina and Florida one wonders? According to www.Skyscanner.com,  2010 appears to be a bright year for international tourism, and for the US tourist industry as a whole.

There will also be more than 100 arts and crafts exhibitors at the event.  This is a fun event for the whole family.  You can even win groceries, gifts and prizes. The festival is held at Francis Field at 25 W. Castillo Drive next to the Visitors Center. Festival hours are 3-9 p.m. on Friday, March 12th, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is only $2 for adults. Net proceeds go to Lions Club charities.

Visit www.lionsfestival.com for more information.

Tara Feis, an Irish Festival
Then on Saturday, we’ll go all out with a genuine Irish Festival, Tara Feis taking place on  Saturday March 13. This is a festival celebrating Irish culture with lots of fun for the whole family from food, to music and dance and much more. The festival is held in Emmet Park. The event is free and open to the public, this year’s event features the Cathie Ryan Band. Tara Feis festival takes place in Emmet Park from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. For more information call 912.651.6417 or http://www.savannahga.gov/arts.

Then there is of course the River Street celebration in the historic downtown district on March 16-17, 2010. This is the main waterfront location for all Paddy Day partygoers coming to town.

The 2010 St. Patrick’s Festival on Historic River Street takes place along the waterfront, includes the following area: River Street from East Broad Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Festivities in this area include games, food, beverages, and live entertainment. The event itself is free, but partygoers must purchase a wristband ($5) to consume alcoholic beverages on the plaza and inside River Street businesses on Tuesday and Wednesday. Wristbands will be sold at kiosks on the plaza, and at businesses on River Street. Already on Tuesday, the party starts with the I-95 Battle of the Bands.

For more details about St Patrick’s Day on Riverstreet, visit www.riverstreetsavannah.com

The City Market also hosts an Irish celebration on March 16-17.

St Patrick’s Day Parade
Don’t miss the parade itself. This year it’s the 186th time for the St. Patrick’s Day parade, so this is one of the oldest in the United States. The parade features bands and marching groups from across the country. Savannah St Patrick’s Day parade starts at 10:15 a.m. (Here is the map of the parade route)

For more information visit www.SavannahStPatricksDay.com

The city will double in size for St Patrick’s Day – so plan to come early and stay late. For more information about St Patrick’s Day and places to stay, contact Savannah CVB at 1-877-SAVANNAH

The state bird in Georgia is the brown thrasher. But now, there is a movement trying to change the state bird from the Brown Thrasher to the chicken.

Their argument – the chicken makes more of an economic impact.
Here are a few of the interesting facts from the website:

Take a look at the video below – and make sure to post your comments below – I’m interested to hear what you think!

It makes you wonder about the other state birds. Do they contribute to the economy? And what about the plants? What do they do?

For more information, visit www.flipthebirds.com

Start your artwalk at any of the participating AGOSA galleries and pick up a free map – or click here to download the map!

As usual there is a FREE Artwalk Train and a FREE Artwalk Trolley. Just hop on board starting at 6pm on King Street. The train and the trolley each make a loop around town to the galleries about every 15 minutes.

Enjoy exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at over 20 participating galleries around town.

For more information about the event, please call 904.829.0065 or visit www.staugustinegalleries.com.

At the encampment at the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park on Magnolia Drive, visitors can relive history. Take an up-close look at authentic 17th century arms, equipment and food at the encampment.
(The camp is set up Friday thru Sunday)

Then, on Saturday March 6, the buccaneers will gather and proceed to the Plaza de la Constitucion in downtown historic district of St Augustine. At 5 p.m. they will attack Spanish soldiers and St. Augustine citizens. Townspeople and soldiers will flee up St. George Street to the Redoubt at Orange and Cordova Streets in the Historic St Augustine.

For more information, please call 904.534.6168 or visit the website

To celebrate the re-opening, there will be a big parade. (Click here to download the pdf document)

Here is a video we did when we visited the Riverside Arts Market in Jacksonville last year

The theme for March 3, 2010: Rock ‘n’ Roll, so you don’t want to miss this one.

A few notes for this month’s event:

There’s a new venue for this art walk, the RiverFit Gym at The Landing, where you can meet t artist, Rejel of REJCEL.co.

Rock ‘n’ Roll to help Haiti with the best bands in Jacksonville and a silent auction benefit by local artists will take place at Suite 106 Gallery.

There’s an Elvis tributes by five-year-old (?!)  Gabriel Jarrett, and Elvis tribute artist, Randy Elvis Walker at Visit Jacksonville. If you enjoy fashion, you’ll have the opportunity to watch a live runway show by “Princess of the Prom” at Cafe 331 & The Sinclair

At the Florida Theater you can view  the 2010 ADDY award-winning work from local advertising agencies and participate in the 2010 AAF JAX Media Auction at 6 p.m.

To watch our video, and to download an map for The First Wednesday Art Walk in Jacksonville, Florida –  click here

This year’s show will begin with a preview gala the evening of Thursday, March 4, and runs daily from Friday, March 5, through Sunday, March 7.

Preview Gala and Champagne Receiption

Already on the evening on March 4, 2010, it’s time for kick off. The event begins with the preview gala, An Evening in the Garden, at 7 p.m. Here  collectors have an  opportunity to secure the antiques of their choice in the dealer gallery.  Meanwhile the elegant black-tie (optional) soiree will be going on in the adjoining tent. One of the highlights of the evening is the performance of the Mary Davis & Company band. Also hors d’oeuvres will be provided by noted caterer Anna Hood and the women of St. Peter’s Church.  Dinner stations will feature a variety of cuisines from noted Savannah-based chefs.  Call 912-598-9521 for invitation information.

The daily show dates are Friday and Saturday, March 5 & 6, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 3 West Ridge Road, Savannah, located on Skidaway Island, 20 minutes southeast of the city.

Tickets to the show are $8 and are valid for all three days. Tickets may be purchased on site during the event.

Gourmet lunches and desserts, prepared from recipes in St. Peter’s cookbook, Manna from Savannah, are offered daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in a flower-filled tent adjacent to the dealer showcases.

For more information, visit St Peter’s Episcopal Church website by clicking here.

At the BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival you get an opportunity to sample and learn about Southern cuisine as well as Lowcountry cuisine. The Lowcountry refers to the low-lying coastal region stretching from Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia. This area is known for its regional cooking style that evolved from a multitude of influences from early settlers. The English, French, Spanish, Irish, Italians, Africans, and Caribbean Islanders settled across the South beginning over three centuries ago and they brought influences from their native lands. This created what we know refer to as Lowcountry cuisine.

“The goal for our fifth year anniversary was to expand our events beyond the downtown area,” said Executive Director, Angel Postell. “Guests will have the opportunity to see one of America’s oldest landscaped gardens at Middleton Plantation, enjoy the city skyline from the new waterfront park in neighboring Mt. Pleasant, and take a culinary journey through Wadmalaw Island.”

Thursday March 4, 2010
Wine Pairing Luncheon and Opening Night
Start the weekend off early with a new event on this years’ schedule, The Perfect Pairing Winemaker Luncheons. Already on Thursday afternoon, two of Charleston’s premier downtown restaurants, MUSE and 82 Queen, will host a three-course lunch paired with carefully selected wines. Here wine professionals share the art of pairing wines with food in a casual setting.

The Food and Wine Festival goes into full swing at the Opening Night Party with Salute to Charleston Chefs, on Thursday, March 4, from 7-10 pm. This soiree features 19+ local culinary icons serving small plates from their restaurant specialties, as well as a sampling of wines from across the country. The Opening Night Party will be a foodie’s delight, with interactive food stations, followed by the sounds of The Quentin Baxter Jazz Septets. This celebration will feature hand-rolled cigars, a cabana lounge with a silent auction, and black-and-white contemporary décor.

Friday March 5, 2010
Tea, Wine, Vegetables and Gullah Traditions
On Friday March 5, the Wadmalaw Farm-to-Table Excursion will begin at the Charleston Tea Plantation where travelers will enjoy a tour and farm-to-table luncheon made from vegetables from Wadmalaw Island. Guests will then travel on to Irvin-House Vineyards, the only domestic winery in Charleston, South Carolina, where they will stroll through the vineyards and have a private tasting with the owner. The final stop is Thackery Farms, where local farmers will give guests a tour of their fields, share insight about organic farming and their relationship with local restaurants.

On Friday afternoon the Gullah community is honored with a Gullah Tribute Luncheon in Marion Square Park. This special fifth year anniversary gathering, from 12-2 pm, will recognize the Gullah culture that began with the migration of African slaves to the Sea Islands of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. Coming from different regions of Africa, they brought with them their languages, cultures, traditions and cuisines, and these creolized into one form known as Gullah, which has been integral to the Lowcountry ever since. During the luncheon, the best local and regional Gullah cooks will partner with national chefs to create a menu that pays homage to traditional Gullah fare. Guests will have the opportunity to taste and learn about this indigenous cuisine from the cooks themselves, while they enjoy Southern-style cocktails and beverages, live entertainers, and more.

The Culinary Village
On Friday afternoon, the Culinary Village + Grand Tasting Tents, will officially open its doors. The culinary village is the heart and soul of the festival, and a visit is an absolute must. The village will feature two exclusive Grand Tasting Tents, each highlighting delectable cuisine, wine, and spirits from across the country, an SCE&G Celebrity Kitchen Demonstration Tent, Charleston Cooks! Book Signing Tent, Certified Angus Beef & Piggly Wiggly Outdoor Living + Grilling Area, a BB&T Hospitality Tent and live musical entertainment on Friday and Saturday. This year’s FedEx Grand Tasting Tents are set to be the best yet, with guests benefiting from fewer tickets sold per session, the “Taste of the Festival” Signature Charity Tent and one-on-one interaction with esteemed chefs and beverage professionals.

Wine Around The Garden
There’s also an opportunity to explore beyond the downtown area and venture beyond Marion Square during the “Wine” Around the Garden” event at Middleton Place. Here you can stroll through the historic, charming gardens of Middleton Place, America’s oldest landscaped gardens. Old world meets new as winemakers of the modern era pour varietals reflective of European wine-making traditions. Wine professionals will be stationed at designated locations throughout the gardens. Guests will finish their stimulating tour with a spread of farm-to-table dishes from local chefs.

Restaurant Dine-Around
The evening comes to an end at one of most relished events throughout the Festival weekend, the Restaurant Dine-Arounds. Treat your taste buds to a luscious once-in-a-lifetime culinary indulgence at one Charleston’s eighteen finest restaurants- Ben Berryhill’s Red Drum, Carolina’s, Charleston Grill, Circa 1886, Cypress Lowcountry Grill, FIG, Fish, Hominy Grill, High Cotton, Introdaqua, Lana, Magnolias, McCrady’s, Monza, Oak Steakhouse, Peninsula Grill, Slightly North of Broad and Tristan- many known for their 4-star reviews and James Beard Award winning talent. In the ambience of these restaurants each local chef will unite with a national chef to create a unique five-course meal that partners the culinary styles of each chef for a menu unlike any other, highlighted by wines carefully selected by a winemaker to enhance your dining experience.

Saturday March 6, 2010
Iron Chef Competition at the Village
On Saturday, March 6, it’s time for the ever popular Iron-Chef style Cooking Competitions, starting at 12 pm at the culinary village. It’s a competition where local culinary chefs face off against national chefs in a fierce Iron Chef cooking contest. Members of the audience decide the winner. The Season Five Next Food Network Star Runner-up, Jeffrey Saad, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies and a special fifth anniversary grand finale surprise will leave audience members on a high note.

Winemaker and Celebrity Authors Receptions
For the first time in the history of the festival, the Winemaker Receptions in Private Homes also goes to sea.
Guest can enjoy the Charleston’s unique architecture by visiting one of the historical downtown homes or view the city skyline as they dock-hop aboard private yachts. Each location will be hosted by a wine professional pouring samples of wines and a local chef or caterer serving creative small plates.

New for this year is the Celebrity Authors Reception, taking place from 4-6 pm on Saturday. Join the Festival’s featured guest authors in a private residence and garden in historical downtown Charleston for wine, and hors d’ oeuvres from MUSE restaurant.

Food and Wine with Daniel Boulud
The most exclusive event of the Festival weekend is: Food + Wine with a View: A Night with Daniel Boulud. This event brings sixty privileged guests together for the ULTIMATE dinner, set in a private penthouse downtown. The city skyline is breathtaking as the stellar talent of the one of the nation’s top chefs/restaurateurs, Daniel Boulud, of famed Daniel, are presented to create an intimate five-course dinner matched with the finest wines in the world.

Bubbles and Sweets!
Saturday night will come to a sweet finish as Marion Square is transformed into Bubbles & Sweets…with a Twist, sponsored by The Art Institute of Charleston and Charleston Magazine. This soiree is sure to be the hottest of the weekend with oases of delightful confections created by top local and celebrated pastry chefs, sparkling and dessert wines, and–new to the event–guest bartenders pouring their signature cocktail creations! Four mixology bars, a bubble bar, a ”candylicious” theme, and music are sure to make this event the talk of the town.

From Gullah Gospel to BBQ, Blues and Brew
Sunday morning, March 7, brings the Lowcountry Gospel Brunch, at 11am to the Holy City. The sounds of Gullah Gospel Ensemble fill the air as some of Charleston’s top restaurants and caterers serve the best brunch in town. A special blessing will welcome guests as traditional cocktails are served along with a three-course menu of miraculous adaptations of a true Lowcountry brunch.

The grand finale of the weekend, BBQ, Blues & Brew, from 5-8 pm, is a local’s favorite way to end the weekend. Top southern pit masters and “que” professionals serve a variety of barbeque favorites–whole hog, brisket, ribs, shoulder and chicken alongside all the fixin’s. The Blue Dogs are back to rock the main tent as guests enjoy cold libations and a true Southern celebration while seated at community tables. Our special Fifth Year Anniversary celebration will include the return of the pitmaster’s rigs!

For the entire event schedule, more information or tickets to the BB&T Charleston Wine + Food Festival, please visit the web site, www.charlestonwineandfood.com or call (843) 727-9998 ext. 4.

The Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival include Kilted Golf Tournaments, Pub Crawls, Kirkin‘ o‘ the Tartans, Whiskey Tasting, Parades of Tartans & Ceilidh (Scottish Musical Evenings).

There’s also live entertainment with a variety of groups such as Need Fire, Mother Grove,  Highland Reign and Ron Davis. The Navy Band Southeast is also scheduled to perform. Check the website for more information.

The Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival 2008 will be held Saturday, February 27, 2010. Gates open at 9:00 a.m. The location for these Games is Clay County Fair Grounds on State Road 16, 2497 SR16 W Green Cove Springs. Tickets prices are $10 per person in advance or $12 at the gate.

Call 904.725.5744 for more information or visit the Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival website.

What made me start thinking about the whole thing was a press release that showed up in my inbox the other day.  It’s a mad, mad world – at least at Odditoriums around the world when Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is “crossing swords” with the Sword Swallowers Association for a special celebration of the Fourth Annual World Sword Swallower’s Day.  Nowadays everyone seems to have a “day”,  so why should sword swallowers be any different.  Go “Fourth and Swallow” I say.

A Bitter Pill To Swallow

Back to the issue at hand, is it real or is it all a fake? To find the answer, I went and did some research online. The first place I visited was of course the www.sword swallow.com – a website with a lot of general information about…should we say, the sport or maybe the art form?

Before you click on the link below, I must warn you. I found these xrays a bit difficult to stomach, but the images proved it to me.  There’s no magic or funny business going on here. All you have to do is to repress reflexes in your throat so you can swallow the sword.  Sounds like a logical explanation, but I’m wondering how on earth you practice to get to that point?

If you feel inclined to learn more about sword swallowing, and you want to check out the xrays for yourself – click here.  Remember, I did warn you.
Watch xrays of sword swallowers here
I still wonder, who wakes up one day and says “I really would like to learn how to swallow a sword”?  Apparently some do, because on February 27th more than 25 sword swallowers will be performing around the world to honor the special Sword Swallower’s day.

Sword Swallowing will take place at Odditoriums worldwide on February 27 at exactly 2:27:10 pm.  Get it – 02/27/2010 – all this is  in celebration of the Fourth Annual World Sword Swallowers Day at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Swords to be Swallowed in St Augustine Too!

Sword swallower Ted Campbell will perform at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! St. Augustine Odditorium on Saturday, February 27th at 2:27 pm local time – all part of World Sword Swallowers Day.
Come watch Campbell show off his amazing sword swallowing skills for free. Sword swallowing shows begin around 1:30 pm local time, with the grand finale set for 2:27 pm.

The Odditorium is located at 19 San Marco Ave., 904-824-1606.

Nerves of Steel
It is said that more than 100 feet of solid steel is set to go down the hatch – hopefully without a scratch! Just the thought of it makes me nervous.

It all started a long, long time ago.  Actually the art of sword swallowing began more than 4,000 years ago in India.  According to the information we received the practitioner “uses mind-over-matter techniques to control the body and repress natural reflexes to insert solid steel blades from 15 to 25 inches down the esophagus and into the stomach”.  Sword swallowers used to be common in traveling circuses, but now there are less than a few dozen full-time professional sword swallowers around the world.

World Sword Swallowers Day was founded by the Sword Swallowers Association International (SSAI) and is co-sponsored by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! locations around the world.

On February 27, SSAI sword swallowers will be performing at more than a dozen Believe It or Not! Odditoriums, including: New York City; Orlando and St. Augustine in Florida; Hollywood, Calif.; Niagara Falls, Can.; Ocean City, Md.; Atlantic City, N.J.; Gatlinburg, Tenn.; Branson, Mo.; Grand Prairie, Texas; Surfers Paradise, Australia; and Guadalajara, Mexico.

Highlights at Believe It or Not! locations during the day will include:

· Red Stewart will attempt to swallow a world record 52 swords at one time in Atlantic City.
· Dai Andrews will attempt to swallow a very dangerous 120-degree curved Sword at Ocean City.
· Dan Meyer will swallow hedge clippers and a giant straight razor in Grand Prairie, Texas.
· Erik Kloeker, the youngest professional sword swallower in the world will perform in Gatlinburg.
· Travis Fessler will swallow a sword with his mouth full of live cockroaches in Gatlinburg.
· George The Giant, the world’s tallest sword swallower, will attempt to swallow a giant 33-inch long sword in Hollywood.
· A bevy of swallowers, led by legendary Todd Robbins, will perform at New York City’s Ripley’s.
· Mike Harrison will swallow a bayonet, rammed down his throat by a rifle, in Orlando.

For more information, visit www.ripleys.com

The Savannah College of Art and Design will host the 29th annual Black Maria Film and Video Festival Friday, March 5, at 8 p.m. at Trustees Theater, 216 E. Broughton St. Admission is $5 for the general public and free with a valid SCAD ID.

The Black Maria Film and Video Festival, started in 1981, is known for its annual roster of bold contemporary works by award-winning independent film- and video-makers that give insight to the human condition, political, social and environmental issues, and aesthetic investigations. It is a traveling showcase that circulates nationwide to more than 50 host institutions. Each location shows a different selection of work, with the Savannah films selected by faculty from SCAD’s film and television department.

“The Black Maria festival continues to provoke and challenge our concept of cinema,” said Michael Chaney, SCAD professor of film and television. “I’m always inspired by these short innovative works of exceptional filmmaking, and there’s always something for everyone.”

SCAD has hosted the festival annually since 1999, screening work by luminaries such as Leighton Pierce, Emily Hubley and Stan Brackhage.

The Black Maria Film and Video Festival’s mission is to advocate, exhibit and reward cutting-edge work from independent film- and video-makers. It is also an opportunity to view exciting and engaging work from both emerging and established filmmakers from around the world.

For more information on the festival, visit the Web site at www.blackmariafilmfestival.org.

Jacksonville International Airport’s Customer Service
Recognized as Among the Best in the Industry

Two New Surveys Show JAX Providing World-class Service

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) has earned top rankings for providing some of the aviation industry’s best customer service and overall passenger satisfaction in 2009, according to two recently released surveys.

In a J.D. Power & Associates study that measures overall airport satisfaction, JAX ranked No. 4 among all U.S. airports with fewer than 10 million annual passengers. Six factors – assessed through 27 specific attributes – are examined as part of the survey to determine overall customer satisfaction. They include: airport accessibility, baggage claim, check-in/baggage check process, terminal facilities, security check, and food and retail services.
In addition, JAX was ranked the 4th best airport in North America in a survey of participating airports by Airports Council International (ACI). The ACI Airport Services Quality (ASQ) passenger survey, a leading industry benchmarking tool, is used by many airports as one of the key performance indicators of an airport’s service.

In the same ACI survey, JAX ranked No. 5 in the world among airports with five to 15 million annual passengers.

“Congratulations to the entire JAX team, including Jacksonville Aviation Authority staff, the Transportation Security Administration, airlines and airport vendors,” said JAA Chair Deborah Pass-Durham. “2009 continued to be a tough year for airports, and for JAX to maintain such high levels of customer service is truly a source of pride for this region.”

Race Weekend Schedule

Friday, February 19, 2010

Health & Fitness Expo

• Hours 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Prime Osborn Convention Center
  1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
• On-site registration and packet pick-up are available during expo hours.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Health & Fitness Expo

• Hours 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Prime Osborn Convention Center
  1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
• On-site registration and packet pick-up are available during expo hours.

26.2 with Donna Family Fun Run

• Prime Osborn Convention Center
  1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
• Registration and check in begins at 7 a.m.
• Fun Run begins at 8:30 a.m.

26.2 with Donna National Galloway Pep Rally

• Prime Osborn Convention Center
  1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
• Time: 10:00 a.m.
• Join U.S. Olympian, Author, Inspirational Speaker and 26.2 with Donna Training Director Jeff Galloway as he offers tips for successful run and motivates the crowd to FINISH BREAST CANCER!

Pasta Party presented by Nektar Therapeutics

• Prime Osborn Convention Center
  1000 Water Street, Jacksonville, Florida
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Tickets are $20 for adults, and kids under 12 eat free!
• Tickets may be purchased at the door or at the Health & Fitness Expo on Friday and Saturday. Proceeds will benefit the Donna Foundation and help FINISH BREAST CANCER!

Sunday, February 21, 2010

26.2 with Donna National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer Marathon, Half Marathon and Marathon Relay

Start/Finish, Mayo Clinic Campus
Medical Support at the start/finish line will be provided by Mayo Clinic from 7 a.m. until the end of the race and race day events.

• 4:00 a.m. Runners Village Opens
  • Staff will be on-site to assist runners
• 6:30 a.m. VIP/Sponsor Viewing Area Opens
  • Located at the race start/finish line.
  • Invitation Only
• 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Marathon, Half-Marathon and Marathon Relay
  • Post Race Celebration
  • Food and Beverages
  • Entertainment
  • Family Reunite Area/Post Race Celebration Area

For more information and details, visit the website at www.breastcancermarathon.com

Close to 40 vendors—students, alumni and faculty of the acclaimed SCAD sequential art department will be on site to exhibit and sell their self-published mini-comics and zines.

This event celebrates hand-made comic books and Do-It-Yourself publishing. Other department-related publications and student anthologies will also be available.

There will also be a series of fun demonstrations led by faculty and graduate students, including drawing comics and creating and binding comic books, open to children and adults alike.

The expo and all workshops are free and open to the public.

The evening will begin with Megan Westmeyer, the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sustainable Seafood Coordinator, who will provide information on fisheries, seafood sustainability, as well as useful tips on how to buy fresh fish.

This is not your traditional seated dinner, instead there are  six sustainable seafood stations, and food can be paired with an organic and sustainable wine. To set the right atmosphere there will be roaring fires inside and out, and music by Charleston-based singer and blues rock guitarist Graham Whorley.

Dinner reservations are $45 per person in advance (all inclusive) or $50 per person at the door (based on availability), and this is really not a bad deal if you consider what you get for the money. Just take a look at the menu below.

At the six stations, you can enjoy:

• Station 1: seared scallops with coined fingerling potatoes, caramelized onions, crispy lardons  and a balsamic-cherry glaze paired with a Mommessin Pinot Noir
• Station 2: oysters on the half with Boursin cheese, teardrop tomatoes and micro arugula paired with a Chateau Recougne Blanc
• Station 3: benne seared yellowfin tuna with pineapple-basil chutney over wild rice paired with a Bishop’s Peak Pinot Noir ‘07
• Station 4: Prince Edward Island mussels with country ham cracklin’s and scallions in a coconut-saffron broth paired with a Chateau de la Muscadet ‘07
• Station 5: buttery local shrimp with southern succotash and white truffle corn puree paired with a Villa Wolf Gris ‘07
• Station 6: yellowfin tuna tartar with wasabi aioli, crisp taro root and a citrus soy drizzle paired with a L.D. Petit Chablis

A portion of the proceeds from the dinner will benefit the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sustainable Seafood Initiative. Space for the event is limited. For reservations, contact Middleton Place Plantation at (843) 266-7477 or purchase online at MiddletonPlace.org.

The festival will honor Jonathan Demme’s work by featuring the following films:

A Man from Plains (2007).
The documentary about President Jimmy Carter that will screened on Sunday, Feb 28 at 1pm at the Hampton Inn & Suites at 19 S. 2nd Street;

The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
This film was partial filmed in Fernandina Beach to be shown at the Hampton Inn & Suites at 3pm; and

The Agronomist (2003)
Demme’s last documentary on Haiti that will screened in partnership with the Salvation Army Relief Fund for
Haiti to be screened on Friday, Feb 26 at 11 am at the Fernandina
Beach City Hall at 204 Ash Street.

Here is the list of award winners for 2010:

Richard Widmark Lifetime Achievment Award

Equinox Documentaries of Florida to be awaded the
Don R. Davis Memorial Award for the Best Florida Film of 2009

Brett Carlson to be awarded the AIFF Best Comedy– Sid Sax Memorial Award

AIFF Inaugural Screenwriters Institute featuring Nadine Vaughan, Sharon Cobb, Dave D’Ardenne, Rick Traum & H. Thomas Hayden

Nadine Vaughan is a published Florida author of Native Son and film producer of The Touch featuring Nicole Travolta that will be screened at the Festival. Nadine is the newest AIFF Board Member.

Sharon Cobb is a Florida Screenwriter that lectures and contributes her expertise to State & National Film Industry communities.

Dave D’Ardenne is a professional videographer that works for
ABC News that lives in Northeast Florida.

Rick Traum is past Executive Producer of NBC’s Tonight Show &
Saturday Night Live, former CFO of Radio City Music Hall and is a Board Member of the AIFF.

H. Thomas Hayden is a film producer from Camden County, Georgia,
presently filming in Georgia and Fernandina Beach his story about the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

For more info please call the AIFF Hotline at:
904.355.1110 or visit: www.AmeliaIslandFilmFestival.org