The Journey Home, Sydney Final Journal 4

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) September 21, 2005

This is it for the journals, so thanks for hanging in there. We leave tomorrow, Tuesday here, to start our journey home. Much to Dave's annoyance, I insist on stopping over for one night in LA, so we won't get back until Wednesday, U.S. time. By the way, stopping is the best in order to stand upright for 24 hours before the last leg.

Our brother, Eddie Oppenheimer, from Mobile, blew into town right on schedule, on the 13th. Considering that he came in from Hong Kong, he was in great shape. Before napping, he wanted to go to Balmoral beach and run! We never knew that Eddie had taken up running and we were very impressed. He looks great, quite amazing, actually. His room was at the bottom of the Japanese steps which had me worried for weeks. But, he learned to navigate them post haste, even schlepping down one suitcase (the rest were left on level one)! Through circumstance, we had quite a social whirl while Ed was here. More on this later under social life!

Moving Day: We were collected right on schedule by Jens, the Swain (my wholesaler) driver for our move to the city. We settled in to the Quay West Apartments. It is about 3 blocks from Circular Quay, the home of the famous Sydney Ferries and lots of street life. It was fun to be able to walk everywhere and not have to drive and ferry first. So, it was farewell to our much loved Balmoral beach and to the daily ferry rides. The first night, we walked to the Quay and had dinner in a great Chinese restaurant. We listened to a street performer sing John Denver songs and sauntered "home".

ACTIVITIES:

We went to the Opera House for a performance of Der Fledermaus. It was done in English and set in New York, not Vienna! Acts I and II were amusing, very cute. ACT III, a bummer! The Opera House has a translation panel above the stage, way above the stage so that you have to crane your neck to read it!! Even though the opera was in English, mostly, you still needed the translation. Aussiespeak demands it! Before the opera, we had dinner in the Opera House Restaurant, the Bennelong. The view is stunning and ever changing, and overlooks the Botanical Garden and the Harbour.

Spectacular Sydney Tour with Jens: we did this tour with the Swain driver at his request. For a first-time Sydney visitor, it would be super. We were with a Brit and an American couple. Jens hits the high points of the city and then drives out through the suburbs. He showed us the statues of the National Bird and the National Animal, the emu and the kangaroo. Why are they the national symbols, you didn't ask. Well, it is because they can only move forward! We drove through the Fox Chapel and Sewickley of Sydney. Being in a prime location in these places means overlooking the water and the sail boats. What could be bad?

Yacht Sail: While Eddie was here, we did this Harbour Sail. It was a glorious day and Colin, the skipper put the jib sail up. I think that he doesn't often put up the mainsail because the tourists would have their bottoms dunked in the sea when the wind is up. Colin sails his 6-8 person boat in among the coves and inlets in the Harbour and then anchors for a wonderful lunch. This is a special day that we finally got to do after getting rave reviews from others.

Royal Sydney Easter Show: What in the heck were Dave and Alece doing here, you might rightly ask. Well, it was Good Friday and we were looking for something that was open! We took a city train, changed at "central" and got off at the Olympic Site for the show. We toured the barns, saw the livestock and then grabbed a seat in the main arena. We were treated to a parade of hundreds of horses and cattle, riders with flags flying, a horse show jumping class. Like most things in Australia, it was great fun and the best part was talking to the people around you.

Bridge Climb: done by moi only! I did try for a "mate" to go with me but the locals had all done it and "the spouse" decided against it for reasons of height panic!! Having been goaded by e-mail by my brother Tim, I went last minute. What can I tell you? First you get with your group (12 people), train like an astronaut, take off your watch, put on a jumpsuit, radio transmitter, belt with a guide-wire clamp, hat, handkerchief and an eye glass holder. All of the aforementioned have straps and clips which one attaches to an O ring at the top back of the jumpsuit. First you walk along a catwalk, then you start to climb, first a series of only slightly tilted ladders, then a great many steps; to be exact 1,400 steps round-trip. My "house steps" training stood me in good stead. Fright did not occur because you are hooked onto a guide wire and you have solid rails to hold on both sides. However, this is serious exertion!! I knew I wasn't dead yet because some of the younger people were suffering more than I! The view from the top, where you see the Aussie flags in pictures, was stupendous and accompanied by an explanation of what we were seeing by Heidi, our guide. One walks up one side, crosses over and walks down the other. For happiness, see the attached photo!

SOCIAL LIFE: We never expected to have a social life at all! However, due to the generosity of our hosts' friends, our old Swain buddies from Philadelphia days now back in Sydney, our cousins Martin and Vivienne from Melbourne coming to Sydney to visit and some acquaintances from many years ago, we have had a ball. Needless to say, all of these people being so nice has added immensely to our fun. Re the couple from the past, their names are Gwen and Keith Singh. We met many years ago on a day tour in the Northern Territories, had dinner together twice, have exchanged holiday cards and notes ever since and really never lost touch. They live in a town called Tamworth about 4 hours away. They called and said they were coming down to see us in Sydney. I recognized them at once while we were still in the taxi outside the restaurant. We had an absolutely wonderful evening. Eddie was here then and will testify to same! We hope they will visit us in the U.S.

AUSTRALIA: Easter takes 4 days!! Good Friday and Easter Monday are national holidays. Except for tourist shops and restaurants, everything is closed up tight. Aussies know how to take holidays, short and long, like no other people on earth!!

There are 2 things that you will find in Sydney and every other city or town big or small: a botanical garden and an ANZAC memorial. The Botanical Garden here is the Central Park of Sydney. It is lush, with old trees, rose gardens, herb gardens, cafes and walking paths. ANZAC memorials celebrate and remember those from Australia and New Zealand who fought together in the World Wars.

Half of the people who live in Australia today were not born here. Like the U.S., it is a country of immigrants, but even more-so. The immigrants here are not only from poor countries but still come from Scotland, England, all over western Europe and even the U.S., for work and for a better life. The politics are strikingly similar to ours but the newspapers make the ones in the U.S. look positively staid!

For those of you who have read this far, thanks for sticking with me! It is with gratitude for our luck at this wonderful opportunity to live here for a bit that we bid farewell to Australia for 2005. The National Anthem is called "Advance Australia Fair", an apt description of this blessed land.

Love to all and see you soon,

Alece and Dave

Journal 1: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/6/prweb252298.php


Journal 2: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/7/prweb267363.php


Journal 3: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/8/prweb275888.php

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Find More Handkerchief Press Releases

Rags to Riches to Reeling Indie Film Scene -- "DESCENT" Producer Morris S. Levy of M.E.G.A. Films Brings it Home to New York at Tribeca Film Festival

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) March 29, 2007

Morris S. Levy, founder and president of M.E.G.A. Films in New York, knows how to make his money work for him and the world. It is no surprise that upon turning his attention to independent film, Levy, a native of Great Neck, New York, has turned celluloid into gold, and can boast three festival spots in just one year, including "DESCENT" set to premiere April 26th at 6:30 p.m. at the Tribeca Film Festival (TFF), AMC/34th Street Theater.

Fiery Hollywood star, Rosario Dawson (RENT) heads up the cast of "DESCENT" and debuts as producer with her own Trybe Films. Trybe partners, Talia Lugacy and Brian Priest wrote the screenplay, and Lugacy directs the psychological thriller. A tale of innocence, shattered dreams destroyed and vengeance fulfilled, Descent begins with an idealistic vision of college sweethearts and wild house parties, but quickly falls apart. A rape sends Maya (Rosario Dawson) into a spiral of drugs, rage and despair -- until she is reunited with her attacker and offered a chance to settle the score. Joining forces for another successful collaboration is City Lights Pictures.

Levy knows a winner when he sees one. "This film was previously unfinanceable because of the dicey subject matter," says Morris. "But, there is something about Rosario," says Levy, "a fire and aliveness that jumps off the screen. Even though I knew it would be a challenge, I was committed to getting it made because I like where Rosario's career is going, and what she wanted to say with this film. I secured financing entirely with private equity investors. The risk is higher, but it's absolutely worth it."

Levy's M.E.G.A. came out of the gate as a winner with previous credits including "THE TEN" (starring Winona Ryder and Jessica Alba) which premiered at this year's Sundance to widespread acclaim and fanfare and "KISS ME AGAIN", which premiered at last year's Tribeca (starring SNL's Darrell Hammond). Another M.E.G.A. project that garnered critical acclaim was the short "LITTLE BLACK DRESS" (also starring Dawson). Coming soon is "SUMMERHILL," British Isle Director Gillies McKinnon is set to direct the feature version of the documentary and Julia Verdin will produce. Also in pre-production are "Harold" starring Cuba Gooding Jr. and the Noah Wyle directorial debut, "The Prince Test".

Levy learned how to spot a winner in the "rag" trade, where he grew his grandfather's handkerchief manufacturing business into a major woman's clothing designer and manufacturer. He became interested in producing when he met a writer working for Woody Allen and the rest is history. Levy is also known for his passion and tenacity as an honored Long Island philanthropist, Levy has founded nonprofits, and actively and enthusiastically serves on several boards.

Keep your eye on Morris S. Levy: he has his eye on the winners and banks on them. Independent film is lucky to have his good eye and acumen on the scene.

Morris S. Levy will be available for interviews now and at the DESCENT press conference Friday, April 27th, 11:30 a.m. at the Clearview Chelsea West for press-only, right after the press screening that morning.

Contact:

Nadine Jolson

Jolson Creative

310-474-1776 office

310-614-3214 cell

email: jolsoncreative(at)mac.com

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More Handkerchief Press Releases

Delaire Country Club Home Sales Take Flight

Delray Beach, FL (PRWEB) July 14, 2011

Delaire Country Club, in Delray Beach, Fla., has been exceeding the expectations of its members for many years. And now, the prestigious country club is exceeding sales expectations as well?and outpacing sales at other country clubs in Delray Beach and Boca Raton area.

With 12 homes already sold to date in 2011, Delaire is on pace to more than double the 10 homes that sold here in 2010?and for good reason. Savvy homebuyers know the economy is ripe to purchase a single-family home at Delaire. That?s why the lush, palm-lined streets at this desirable club are buzzing with activity as new homebuyers renovate, or completely rebuild, their homes.

?People have heard about the fabulous improvements we?re adding here at Delaire,? says Trent Squire, the Club?s general manager. ?They can?t wait to see the new Clubhouse, meet friends in our new dining room or members grill, or work out in our all-new and expanded Fitness Center. But time is running out for people to capitalize on real estate deals here. Once the new Clubhouse opens in a few months, home prices are sure to go up.?

At least one local real estate expert agrees with Squire.

?Overall, the sale of homes in country club communities is not as strong as for the market in general,? says Richard Bass, the broker of three Keller Williams real estate offices in South Florida. ?Delaire is showing a much better rebound in the market than country clubs in general.?

?Buyers at Delaire are looking for both current value and future appreciation due to the fabulous renovations going on with the community,? continued Bass. ?When the overall market rebounds, Delaire will be well set.?

Homebuyers at Delaire are excited by the new amenities and want to be part of the renaissance of this community?a renaissance occurring by virtue of the $ 21 million improvement project that is literally transforming the community and reinforcing its status as the most desirable country club in Palm Beach County.

?We compared Delaire to virtually a half-dozen clubs or gated communities in the Boca Raton area,? says Stan Davis, an industrial auctioneer from Pittsburgh, Pa., who recently purchased a three-bedroom home at Delaire with his wife Marian. ?They?re building here toward the future. The Clubhouse they already had was fine, but the new Clubhouse is going to be phenomenal. We?re very excited about it. Everybody here is very excited about it.?

In addition to a fresh new architectural style and amenities, with just 326 homes Delaire offers members and guests an intimate feel not often found in South Florida?s other country clubs. Its size allows the club to offer unique amenities such as walk-on golf, with no tee times required, and a full slate of social and recreational activities.

That?s why members and guests agree that Delaire is the place to be in the Boca/Delray area.

The all-new Fitness and Tennis Center has already made its debut at Delaire and features a 16,000-square-foot Fitness Center with the latest in equipment and technology; a new Tennis Center with eight Har-Tru courts, an observation deck, a stadium court and Pro Shop; a spectacular resort-style pool; and a children?s playground.

Everyone awaits the completion of the 43,000-square-foot Clubhouse slated to open this fall. Destined to become a focal point and gathering place for Delaire?s members, the Clubhouse will bring to South Florida a bold new Mid-Atlantic Traditional style, with extensive stonework, copper accents, a central rotunda, lavish main dining room, cocktail lounge, members grill, golf pro shop, card rooms and an outdoor dining area overlooking the lush golf course. This Clubhouse?a stark contrast from the mundane Spanish-style, stucco buildings found so often in South Florida--will serve to distinguish Delaire from other country clubs.

Indeed, new homeowners have found that Delaire offers everything they could ever want in their new home. ?Delaire combines the benefits of a well-run established country club with all-new amenities,? says Squire. ?It?s a perfect combination.?

About Delaire Country Club

Delaire Country Club is a private community of 326 single-family homes located on Military Trail along the Boca Raton-Delray Beach line. Delaire offers a first-class, casually elegant country club experience, featuring a 27-hole Joe Lee championship golf course with walk-on golf (no tee times), a full-service tennis facility with eight Har-Tru courts and world-class dining. The community recently opened a new state-of-the-art Fitness and Tennis Center, with the latest in equipment and technology as well as Certified Fitness Trainers. Delaire is also in the process of building a new Clubhouse with the utmost in amenities, from a lavish dining room to a lounge, card rooms and meeting facilities. To learn more about the unique lifestyle offered at Delaire Country Club, contact Liz Shaw, executive coordinator, at 561-499-9090 or visit http://www.Delaire.org.

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More Quick Home Makeovers

(Vocus) March 31, 2009

The birds are following their nesting instincts and we're motivated too--to renew, refresh and redecorate. Need a little inspiration to refresh your nest? Here are ideas from the Calico Corners - Calico Home staff across the country. "Small projects can have a large impact on the look of a room," notes Jan Jessup, director of communications for the 100+ store group. "Remember: great decorating begins with great fabrics, and our fabrics have never been fresher, with new graphic prints, dramatic ikat designs, an amazing collection of African-inspired animal skin patterns, Kashmiri crewels and our Annie Selke Home collection, exclusive to Calico. Walking into the store is like a little trip around the world!"

For many more ideas, click here for part one of Quick Home Makeovers: PR Web - Quick Home Makeovers - Ideas To Add A Fresh Touch.htm

DINING ROOM

????Redo dining room slip seats in a current fabric. Or have slipcovers made for the seats, perhaps with a pleated skirt that ties on. They'll hide stains and add a fresh look.

????Lighten your table for spring. Use a length of embroidered sheer fabric or handkerchief linen, hemmed, gathered or puddled at the ends to create a runner or table cover.

????Add two upholstered host and hostess chairs to your dining room table. These should be in a contrasting fabric that coordinates with the other chairs at the table. (Be sure the new chairs are the right height and pitch for dining; adding a decorative lumbar pillow will provide more support.)

FAMILY ROOM

????Create a junior ottoman for your family room by stacking three 26-inch boxed pillows that can be thrown on the floor for television viewing.

????An ottoman--tufted or not--makes a great coffee table and does double duty as seating. Because an ottoman is often a centerpiece, a new one can have a big impact.

BEDROOMS & BEDDING

????Hang bed drapery panels on swing arm rods at each side of your bed to help create your own private space. This works well to dress up a guest room bed. If you have a canopy bed, hang fabric panels--two for minimal effect, four for maximum impact.

????Add an upholstered headboard to an existing bed--they attach right to the metal bed frame. This makes the whole room seem more finished. Select a fabric that works with bedding in all seasons. Upholstered headboards are very comfortable if you read, work or watch television in bed.

????Hang a shirred rod pocket panel as high as you can on the wall behind your bed. This can even go behind a headboard. Make it reversible for a seasonal change of d?cor. Or use a heavy jacquard fabric as a wall tapestry behind the bed and hang it from a decorative rod.

????Reupholster a "found" bench for the end of your bed--look in antique stores, auction sites and thrift stores for bargains. It's a handy place for bedding and pillows at night, for putting on shoes, or to use as a luggage stand when packing for a trip.

????Create a light coverlet for summer use to complement a reversible duvet cover for winter use. Switch their placement as the seasons change.

????Jazz up an existing bed with new Euro shams (26-inches square) or one large rectangular bed pillow.

????Add a shorter dust ruffle in a sheer or lace to add a romantic touch and perk up an existing dust ruffle on the bed. This can go right over the top of the current bed skirt.

BATHROOMS

????A small investment makes a big impact in a bathroom. Consider a new shower curtain in a fresh colorful print, a pretty sink skirt (it can go on with Velcro) and new monogrammed towels.

LAMPS & LIGHTING

????Glue tassel trim to a lampshade for a touch of glamour or whimsy.

????Cover unsightly cords or chandelier chains with a fabric scrunchy to go with your decor.

????Replace yellowed or aged lampshades with new textured, colored or shaped styles to update the look of your lighting.

BOOKSHELVES

????Give your bookshelf a makeover. Display treasures appropriate for the season--bowls filled with pinecones or feather-covered balls for fall, a glass vase filled with sand and seashells for summer. For color, line the back of the cabinet with fabric-wrapped inserts.

WINDOW SEATS

????Add a window seat cushion with throw pillows for a new reading area.

WALLS

????Graphic printed fabrics are "art by the yard." Staple to a stretcher frame and mount as is, or frame up and place on the wall. Group three or four together for maximum impact.

Calico Corners - Calico Home stores provide expert decorating advice and free in-home design consultation in more than 100 stores across the country. Consumers will find thousands of designer fabrics for the home at value prices; custom window treatments, blinds and shades; custom upholstered furniture, plus decorative accessories and more. Thousands of fabrics are available online. For more information or to find the nearest store, visit http://www.CalicoCorners.com or call (800) 213-6366.

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