NEW SPORT TO OVERTAKE PRO WRESTLING AND MMA
Armed With A Pillow and Dangerous!

Columbus, OH, January 24, 2012
Move over UFC, step aside WWF, and Girls Gone Wild has nothing on this!
A new sport is going viral, Saturday Night Pillow Fights. This new league is quickly gaining popularity with its mix of raw beauty, tremendous fight technique, and colorful characters.
This isn’t your “girl’s sleep-over pillow tussle”…it’s an all-out battle in an MMA octagon. Throw in the fact that these beautiful fighters are adorned in lingerie with the occasional wardrobe malfunction and you have every mans viewing entertainment dream!

The organizers of the league, MadShiva Entertainment recently recorded a live uncensored event. The response has been tremendous. Their Saturday Night Pillow Fights DVD is now available on Amazon.com and through their website www.saturdaynightpillowfights.com. Additional worldwide distribution is being sought.

MadShiva Co-Owner and event organizer Mike Neider said “The event was a huge success. The girls fought great. The crowd absolutely loved it. Having celebrities Chuck “Dead Body Guy” Lamb and Ryan Francis (both starred in the cult classic movie Thankskilling) here made it all that more entertaining”.

Neider went on “Chuck Lamb provided insanely comedic play by play announcing alongside Producer Rick Hills, who was methodical in his analysis. Ryan Francis did an awesome job refereeing the matches, even though he took a few lumps himself during the course of the night.”

With names like Alexis Capone, Babe Ruthless, Syster Syn, Goddess Luna and others, the fans will be able to identify them easily. They can then root and cheer for their favorite character. Many of the ‘fights’ are set with the classic good versus evil premise.

MadShiva Ent. plans to have many more events. They plan on recording them as well in order to provide DVD viewers the opportunity to catch all of the action.

Saturday Night Pillow Fights is listed on IMDB.com. They also have a page on Facebook where fans can friend their favorite fighters and keep up to date with all the leagues events.
For additional information or interviews, please contact:
Chuck Lamb, (614)870-8889 or email
saturdaynightpillowfights@yahoo.com

Disclaimer…Saturday Night Pillow Fights is not affiiated, in any way, with WWF, UFC, or Girls Gone Wild

Pennies2Win & Gift Cards – A Dynamic Duo!

As a great many of us experienced this past weekend, one of the best and most lucrative gifts under the tree continued to be gift cards.  Whether it was Hastings for the movie buff, or Macy’s for the clothes hound, gift cards were still there and in a huge variety.

One of the most amazing places to get gift cards is a website that won’t even make you pay as much as you would in the store.  Walmart, Lowes, Best Buy - at Pennies2Win.com the gift cards are right there on the screen and can be bid on by members.  In fact, a Walmart gift card can be gotten for a steal!  I seriously am not joking when I speak.  Two hundred free dollars on a gift card can be purchased on Pennies2Win.com for as low as one penny.  At Pennies2Win.com, there are no skyrocketing, ridiculous prices, you are already fully aware that the product is real and will be shipped no matter what, and – most of all – it is a WORRY-FREE and FUN shopping experience!  One of the phrases that should be up in lights for all to see is that, Pennies2Win.com allows users to purchase items at up to 99% off retail prices. Which is absolutely amazing when going for a gift card.

As we said before, gift cards are highly popular, and they rank as the most given gift by consumers in the United States.  They are the most-wanted gift by women, and the third-most wanted by men.  Gift cards have become increasingly popular simply because they relieve the buyer of selecting a specific gift that many times will simply be returned the day after Christmas.  Over eighty billion dollars was paid for gift cards this past year, and there seems to be no slow-down in sight.

For a little fun information, the first gift card actually came from the world of movie-buffs.  Blockbuster Entertainment made a gift card in 1994; it was made to replace gift certificates that were being counterfeited with the introduction of color copiers and color printers.  When this became all the rage, Blockbuster was immediately followed by a card issued by Neiman Marcus, and the Mobil Oil gas card, which also initially offered prepaid phone value provided by MCI.  Kmart was the next with its introduction of the ‘Kmart Cash Card’ which also provided prepaid phone time with AT&T. From these very early introductions, numerous retailers began to adopt their own ‘gift card’ programs, and it became a huge phenomenon.

Design now plays a large part in gift cards – color, gift cards that sing, play music – this industry has become bigger and more creative by the month.  They can also be custom tailored to meet specific needs.  Charity Gift Cards are a new item which now allow the buyers to make a charitable donation, and the gift recipient chooses a charity that will receive that donation.

As technology moves forward, virtual gift cards are now being delivered via e-mail to their recipient, the benefits being that they cannot be lost and that the consumer does not have to drive to the actual store in order to use their card.  Two of the top-sellers of gift cards – Target and Starbucks – have even launched mobile gift cards.

There have been many who say that gift cards are not a good gift, seeing as that a quarter of gift card recipients still haven’t spent their entire gift card from last year, but each and every year they come back bigger and stronger with a larger majority of people wanting this particular gift.

Each and every day these gift cards sell like hotcakes on Pennies2Win.com, and people are beyond excited to be able to bid pennies on the dollar and receive gift cards from some of the best stores, restaurants, and more through this website.  Penny auctions, oddly enough, are as historical and legendary as gift cards themselves – so the teaming up of the two really works well.

People are joining Pennies2Win.com more and more every day, as they read up and learn that this is not just another penny auction site.  This is a place where the members feel as if they are really getting their money’s worth – and they are.  The products that can be bid on range from gift cards all the way up to the latest and greatest technology on the market, and these bidders are walking away with these high-priced items for barely nothing.  So for all the people out there who are simply drooling to get that mega-expensive iPod, or camera, or need to have that latest appliance more than anything else in the world, here is exactly how you begin!

Register on Pennies2Win.com.  If you want to bid in auctions to get tremendous savings, register first (AND the registration is free.)  There are no “hidden” costs to becoming a member! After registration, you simply receive a confirmation email to let you know you are now a part of this incredible shopping experience.  Simply click the link in the email to confirm the set-up of your account.  It really is THAT easy to start.

Buy Bids.  Each bid costs just $0.60 and are available in ‘Bid Packs’ of 25, 50, 75, 100, 250, 500 and 750 bids.  (Pennies2Win.com accepts multiple payment methods for the bids, including: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover). Once you buy your bids, Pennies2Win.com stores them in your own ‘Bids Account.’  That way, you always know what you have to work with when you enter the auctions.

Choose Products.  Pennies2Win.com will list a ton of auctions that you can be a part of – electronics, jewelry – everything!  All you do is decide what you want, and start bidding!

In the end, 2011 may come away with a few wounds and scars, but the one thing it has also done is reinvented the world of penny auctions and gift cards, a great way to lead us into 2012 by saving money and getting the products we truly want!

Until Next Time, Everybody!

For More Information Go To:

www.pennies2win.com  

Friday: December 30

RIPPLE EFFECT ANCIENT CITY KAYAK TOUR  

Come see St. Augustine the way the conquistadors and the pirates saw it, from the original entrance to the oldest city . . . Salt Run. On Tuesday and Friday, all ages and experience levels will enjoy this captivating look into St. Augustine’s maritime past. Ripple Effects’ Necky expedition kayaks glide easily through the water as certified naturalist guides introduce family members to the richness of our area. A world that looks much like it did 400 years ago when pirates and traders explored and fought in these same waters. Fee is $45 per person and includes all kayaking equipment. No experience necessary. For more information, call 904 347-1565 or visit http://www.RippleEffectEcotours.com.

CANDLE LIGHT TOURS OF VILLA ZORAYDA

Explore the beautiful Villa Zorayda, decorated for the Holiday season, featuring a Christmas tree in the “Court of Lions”, decorated in the Villa’s traditional red and gold and a beautiful crèche nativity scene that that has been a Villa tradition since the 1930s.  On Friday at 6 p.m., enjoy refreshments of cookies and punch. Candles are aglow throughout the museum as the docent led candlelight tour begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults and $8 for children 7 -12, children 4 -6 are free (not recommended for children under 3).  Villa Zorayda is located at 83 King Street in St. Augustine. Reservations are suggested. For more information, visit www.villaZoryada.com or call 904.829.9887.

Friday and Saturday: December 30 & 31

COLONIAL SPANISH QUARTER TOURS

St. Augustine’s Colonial Spanish Quarter will be open for special tours through Saturday.  Historic interpreters will guide visitors back through time to the year 1740 where a Yuletide Greetings in History and Song will be presented at the DeMesa House.  Plus, 18th century craftsmen and artisans will show what a typical day was like for the residents of the Presidio.  Tours are at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.  Tickets are $5 per person (plus tax), children 6 and under are free.  The entrance to the Colonial Spanish Quarter is at 29 St. George Street.  

NIGHT VIEWS FROM THE ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE

For a spectacular view of the Nights of Lights, climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse after dark!  On Friday, the lighthouse will be open until 9 p.m. and on Saturday until 7 p.m.  Plus the grounds will be open and the outstanding museum will be included in the cost of admission.  For more information, call 904.829.0745 or go to www.staugsutinelighthouse.com .
LIMELIGHT THEATRE: DUCK HUNTER SHOOTS ANGEL

Enjoy this family-friendly performance about two bumbling duck hunters in the Alabama swamp manage to shoot an angel and are then pursued by the tabloid media. This hilarious tale interweaves a love story, race relations, and cultural stereotypes as the chase to find the angel builds to a crescendo. Performance times through December 30 are Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m.  New Year’s Eve features a BBQ and Bubbly buffet dinner with Krispy Kreme donuts dessert (perfect for the theme of the play. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the curtain goes up at 8 p.m. (Tickets are $50).    Tickets for all other performances are $25 for adults, $22 for seniors and $20 for students and military.The Limelight Theatre, located at 11 Old Mission Avenue in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.825.1164 or visit www.limelight-theatre.org.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: December 30, 31 and January 1

WINTER WONDERLAND AT ST. AUGUSTINE AMPHITHEATRE

Bring the whole family to enjoy St. Augustine’s Winter Wonderland which features a real ice skating rink, ice slide, Elf Express train rides, The Elf Village, sleigh rides and SNOW!  There are even scheduled visits from Santa.  Adults are welcome to relax and enjoy refreshments in the Igloo Lounge (21 and up only). St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A St. Augustine. Hours are  2 to 10 p.m. daily through January 1 (New Year’s Eve noon to 5 p.m.) Admission is free with activity participation fees.   For more information, call 904.209.0367 or visit www.WinterWonderlandFlorida.com.

FREEDOM SUNSET SAIL

Board the beautiful Schooner Freedom for a sailing adventure that includes a gorgeous sunset and the Oldest City aglow in Nights of Lights splendor.  The schooner departs daily at 4:15 p.m. from the St. Augustine City Marina.  Soda, beer, wine and blankets are provided — passengers are more that welcome to bring a picnic basket or a thermos of hot chocolate.  Tickets for the two-hour tour are $45 per adult; kids 2-12 are $35 each; children under 2 sail free.  For reservations, call 90.810.1010.

Saturday: December 31

NEW YEAR’S EVE NOON BALLOON DROP

The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach is bringing back the bang with their New Year’s Eve Noon Balloon Drop Gang. Stop by for a bite of Brucci’s Pizza Pie, or decorate a cookie a mile high. Snap, crackle and pop in the bubble-wrap room as you jump to the jingles of house band tunes. Create a hilarious hat with eyes that wiggle or make party masks that will make everyone giggle. It all takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach, 50 Executive Way. Admission is $ 5 per person or $15 for a family of four. For more information, visit

www.CCpvb.org

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BEACH BLAST OFF 2012

Kick off 2012 in seaside style at this special St. Augustine Beach event! Enjoy a blast of flavor, icy sculptures, and fireworks when several of St. Augustine’s favorite restaurants serve up chili for tasting and judging at the Fire and Ice Chili Cook-off from 4 to 10 p.m. After things cool off from the chili – the Fireworks synchronized to music begin at 8:30 p.m. This display will delight visitors and help usher in the New Year! Admission is free. The Beach Blast takes place at St. Johns County Fishing Pier and Pavilion, 350 A1A Beach Boulevard in St. Augustine Beach.(Free parking with shuttle from Amici’s Restaurant, 1915 A1A South) For more information, call 904.829.5681 or visit www.beachblastoff.com

DIAMOND, DENIM AND DECADES NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

Bring in the 2012 at an exciting New Year’s Party at the Renaissance World Golf Village Resort. From 7:30 p.m. until 1 a.m., the resort’s St. Augustine Ballroom will be the liveliest place to be when the Murray Goff Connection Band performs high-energy music and popular songs from nearly every genre. The Diamonds, Denim and Decades package is $319 per couple and includes one night accommodations at the Renaissance World Golf Village rRsort, admission to the party; a welcome libation; fantastic culinary fare at 12 different food stations, created by the resort’s Executive Chef Brett Smith; a champagne toast at midnight; and a late night snack buffet. Tickets for just the Party are $75 per person, plus t & g. The Renaissance is located at I-95 Exit 323. For more information and reservations, call 904-940-8696, or visit http://www.WorldGolfRenaissance.com.

CASINO FOR A CAUSE NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH

Bring in the New Year at Ponte Vedra Beach’s newest event facility, the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. A fun-filled evening will be had by all, starting with a cocktail reception from 8 to 9 p.m. Then, through out the night there will be live entertainment by Orlando’s Top Jazz & Swing Band, heavy hors d’oeuvres, unlimited beer, wine and martinis, and a Champaign toast at midnight. Tickets are $125 and VIP tickets (which include unlimited full bar) are $175. The Ponte Vedra Concert Hall is located at 1050 S A1A in Ponte Vedra Beach. Proceeds from this exciting New Year event will benefit BEAM, Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry. For more information, visit www.CasinosForACause.com

Holiday Tours and Attractions

HOLLY JOLLY TROLLEY NIGHTS OF LIGHTS TOUR

Explore St. Augustine’s famous Nights of Lights in the cozy comfort of the Holly Jolly Trolleys. Guests of all ages delight at the festive glittering lights throughout St. Augustine’s historic area while enjoying caroling, hot apple cider and homemade cookies. Each guest will receive complimentary magical viewing glasses that will enhance the twinkle and glimmer of the lights. And, children and adults alike will get the chance to meet Santa during the tour. Tours are nightly through December 31 and take place between 6 and 8 p.m., departing from the St. Augustine Visitors Information Center, located at 11 W. Castillo Drive in St. Augustine. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children. For more information, call 904.829.3800.

SANTA’S BIG RED CHRISTMAS TRAIN

Come ride Santa’s Big Red Christmas Train this Ho-Ho-Holiday Season! Get into the holiday spirit as our Big Red Trains transport you through our magical city to view the Nights of Lights celebration nightly through January 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 -9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $7 for adults ages 12 and over and $3 for children ages 3-1. Ticket includes complimentary magical glasses that make the light displays extra amazing. December 2nd through 24th tours include stops at Santa’s Village and Prancer’s Putt-Putt for only $1 each! 904.824.1606www.redtrains.com

ST. AUGUSTINE GOLD TOURS NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

Tour the dazzling display of lights in comfort and style with just 7 passengers on all electric silent shuttle bus with individual seat restraints. All tours are $7 (inclusive of 3D glasses) starting and finishing at the Old Drug Store car park on Orange Street where the kids can meet Santa.

Tours take place each night, except Tuesday from 5 till 10 p.m. For more information, call904.325.0547, or visit www.staugustinegoldtours.com.

NIGHTS OF LIGHTS SUNSET SAIL

See the glittering Nights of Lights from the deck of a authentic 19^th century schooner! Every night now through January will feature a memorable and beautiful sunset Nights of Lights cruise aboard the Schooner Freedom. The two-hour cruise departs from the St. Augustine City Marina at 4:15 p.m. Tickets are $45 per adults, kids 2-12 are $35, under 2 sail free, complimentary beer, wine, soda, and water provided. For reservations, call 904.810.1010.

PRIVATE NIGHTS OF LIGHTS TOUR CHARTERS

Plan a private tour of the Nights of Lights for your large group. Old Town Trolley Tours offers a special 40 minute tour for groups of 20 or more. Tours are available in advance every night.  Private tour rates are $9 for adults and $4 for children. Tours depart from the Visitor Information Center, located at 11 W Castillo Drive in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.829.3800.

PRANCER’S PUTT-PUTT

Stop by Ripley’s Bayfront Golf at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina for a round of golf with Prancer and his friend. Bayfront Golf will be transformed into a mini-North Pole through the holidays. Bayfront Golf’s Prancer’s Putt-Putt golf is open through January 2 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Regular prices are $4.50 for adults and $3.50 for children, or just $1 per person when purchased with tickets for Santa’s Big Red Christmas Train tours. Bayfront Golf is located at 11 Avenida Menendez ion St. Augustine’s Bayfront. For more information, call 904-824-1606.

TOUR DE CHOCOLATE

Join City Walks on the Tour de Chocolate every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at noon for a 2-hour journey into the world of chocolate. From the Aztecs and Mayans to Europe via the Spanish Conquistadors, explore the history and indulge yourself in the wonderful world of CHOCOLATE. The tour  includes all tastes and samplings, and a VERY special take home gift of chocolates. All ages welcome, Adults are $36 and Children under 10 are $25, per person. Reservations are required and are available for online reservations/purchase, where guests will save $2 per person.  Plus, through January 31, all of City Walks’ historical tours will take a look at the origins of our holiday traditions.

Make your reservation now at http://www.staugustinecitywalks.com .

NIGHT OF LIGHTS CARRIAGE AND WINE TOUR

Step aboard an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage and meander the historic streets in true southern comfort on this hour long tour. While you enjoy St. Augustine’s spectacular light display, snuggle up and indulge in delicious Spanish boutique wines. $49 per person. Tours are held Monday through Saturday starting at 6 pm and 7:30 pm. Reservations are required. 904.386.5482www.thetastingtours.com

WINE AND INN HOLIDAY CARRIAGE TOUR

Visit the ‘Best of the Best’ Inns in St. Augustine on this holiday Bed and Breakfast Tour with exclusive boutique wine tasting via horse drawn carriage! Take a narrated carriage ride along the historic streets of St. Augustine and indulge in delicious boutique wines on this 2.5 hour tour.  Experience the gracious southern hospitality of 5 beautiful Inns!  Tour the romantic rooms, lush gardens and much more! History, Romance, Carriage and ‘Holiday Spirits’!  Priceless! Limited time only. Tours are held on Tuesday and Wednesday starting at 1 pm. $59 per person. 904.386.5482 www.thetastingtours.com

HOLIDAY  INN AT POTTER’S

Throughout the month of December, general admission tickets to St. Augustine’s famous Potter’s Wax Museum will include a full-length showing of Holiday Inn starring Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Marjorie Reynolds and Virginia Dale.  Show times are 11 a.m.; 1 p.m.; 3 p.m.; 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

PONTE VEDRA CONCERT HALL TO BLEND NATIONAL TOURING ACTS WITH LOCAL TALENT

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL–(Monday, December 19^th, 2011)— Two new concerts have been added to the 2012 lineup for the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall: The Big Easy band The New Orleans Suspects on January 26^th, and blues vocalist Shemekia Copeland on February 19^th. Both of these concerts share the fact that local talent will take the stage to perform prior to the headliner. Billy Buchanan will open for The New Orleans Suspects, while Toots Lorraine and the Traffic will perform prior to Shemekia Copeland.

The Ponte Vedra Concert Hall is a St. Johns County Cultural Events Division venue, and aims to host events that display a variety of talent, including both local and national musicians. A spring showcase is in the works that will be dedicated to promoting the music ofNorth Floridaacts.

Billy Buchanan is heavily influenced by artists that are based in a more soulful, bluesy singer – songwriter tradition. Current musicians like Ray Lamontagne and Amos Lee, soul greats such as Otis Redding and Bill Withers, and southern rockers like The Allman Brothers are just a few of the artists that influence Buchanan’s sound.

TootsLorraineand the Traffic are a husband and wife duo who deliver a focused blend of classic vibe infused with West Coast Blues, Blue-Note Jazz and Swing. Rooted in the blues, TootsLorraineand the Traffic deliver a solid, energetic and scintillating performance.

Tickets for both of these seated shows will go on sale this Tuesday, December 20th at10AM. Tickets will be available for purchase at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall and St. Augustine Amphitheatre box offices, ticketmaster.com, and all Ticketmaster outlets.

SHOW:        The New Orleans Suspects with Billy Buchanan
DATE:                    Thursday, January 26, 2012
TIME:          Doors 7:00pm / Show 8:00pm
TICKET PRICE:        $24.00 reserved seating

SHOW:        Shemekia Copeland with Toots Lorraine and the Traffic
DATE:                   Sunday, February 19, 2012
TIME:          Doors 7:00pm / Show 8:00pm
TICKET PRICE:        $28.00 first three rows; $23.00 reserved seating

On Lido Key at St. Armand’s Circle today was the 20th annually Mustang, Shelby Ford Car Show.  The proceeds of the show went to the local Guide Dog Institute.

It was a beautiful day.  Here are two Photo Essays of some of the great cars.  There were just to many awesome cars to show them all.

This article brought to you by www.befirstinc.com

Source: www.roadtrekin.com

On November 19 and 20, the nation’s oldest city will provide a beautiful and historic setting for a weekend of races and fun for running enthusiasts of all ages. Set for Sunday, November 20, both the Columbia St. Augustine Marathon and half-marathon have been certified by USA Track and Field making the event a qualifier for the prestigious 2013 Boston Marathon. In addition, 10K, 5K and Kids’ Runs are scheduled for Saturday. Together, these runs create an ideal weekend getaway for sports-minded families.

Athletes and fans will also experience the Columbia St. Augustine Expo featuring the latest gear and equipment at discount prices. Located in the heart of the event “village,” the Expo will also be an ideal location for runners and fans to socialize.

The marathon will be the first of the official events leading up to the 450^th birthday of the City of St. Augustine in 2015. Founded in 1565 by the Spanish, St. Augustine features an authentic European look that includes Aviles Street, the oldest street in the oldest city; the iconic Bridge of Lions leading to Anastasia Island; the Plaza de la Constitucion; some of the best Spanish Renaissance architecture in the New World; a beautiful bayfront; the nation’s first national monument, the Castillo de San Marcos; and 144 square blocks listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Combined with great Atlantic beaches, outstanding restaurants and a wide variety of accommodations, both runners and their fans will find the courses to be truly memorable. As an added bonus, the three million tiny white lights that mark the holiday Nights of Lights will flicker to life in a special ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. In 2009, AAA selected St. Augstine and its Nights of Lights as one of the ten best places in the U.S. and Canada for “holiday cheer”.

Registration for the Columbia St. Augustine Marathon is $105 for the full marathon; $90 for the half; $35 for the 10K; and $30 for the 5K. Children under 12 run for free. For online registration, course maps, full details and tips on accommodations, go to www.staugustinemarathon.com . The first 1,000 runners will receive a free cap and winners in each category will get to drink from the soon-to-be-legendary Grail of Endurance filled with fresh spring water from Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine.

Organized by Miami Tri Events, the Columbia Restaurant and the Jack Wilson Family of Automobile Dealerships are key sponsors of the marathon along with Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine, Project Autism, Anastasia State Park, Coastal Realty, Flagler Hospital and the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council

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Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida’s Historic Coast includes historic St. Augustine, the outstanding golf and seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra, 42 miles of pristine, Atlantic beaches and the location of Ponce De Leon’s historic discovery of Florida in 1513. For more information on events, activities, holiday getaway and vacation opportunities in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at  www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com, become a fan on Facebookor call 1.800.653.2489.

Pennies2Win

Bring on the Mustangs!

!  The odd part is, this time around, the ‘bubble’ that is happening is not something new – it’s something highly improved.

I was very curious to see how penny auctions worked because, let’s be honest, in this pessimistic society something always feels like a scam until you try it out for yourself.  Penny auctions have been around for decades and were even used as a way to get food and funds by hardworking families.  But now, there are companies out there on the internet that actually allow you to come in the door and ‘place bids’ on items like gift cards and huge electronics that we can only one day hope to own, because there’s no way in this economy we can actually afford these items.  So…with penny auctions, CAN we afford them now?

Buying a bid package, I began looking around a truly extraordinary site that someone was speaking about – a site with a very ‘high’ reputation that was listing some truly amazing items like TV’s, iPhone’s, even ‘high-brow’ coffee pots that I would’ve loved to have in my home.  You see, what you do is place a Bid on the item you want and this increases the bid timer by ten seconds. To win an item, you have to be the last bidder when the timer hits 0. So, you become a strategist, having your intelligent mental capabilities ‘click on’ to see if you can win that new Ipad.  Focusing on ONE auction at a time, waiting until the timer goes far down to about twenty seconds left on the clock, I started placing those bids.  Yes, I walked away with an enormously expensive product for only twenty bucks.

So now you ask, is it real?  People, Pennies2Win is the website I am speaking about and this company surpasses eBay!  With this easy-to-use and REAL service, Christmas has now become a joy to look forward to.  Not only will I be able to buy very cool gifts for the children, I can buy them for a minimal cost and not have to go into bankruptcy to achieve this!

It is very hard to place on paper how amazing Pennies2Win really is.  And it’s not only their cool website, wealth of products, or outstanding staff – it’s also having the fun of Las Vegas without having to buy the plane ticket and lose it all at the table.

I have spoken to you in the past about an organization created by an international team of experts who wanted nothing more than to provide us all with affordable, brand new, name-brand products for just pennies on the dollar!  This is Pennies2Win.  Yes, I know, there are others out there who may turn you off because they’re not real – but Pennies2Win has blown me away completely.  P2W is not a fraud – you bid on the products, you win, you receive – nothing is more simple than that.  But with this site, you not only get truth and fun, you also get this incredible support staff that is there if you have any questions whatsoever.  They speak to you, they help you, and they answer all your questions…every single time you have one!

At Pennies2Win the savings is momentous!  I seriously am not joking when I speak about the holidays.  This recession-wary, shaky economy, jobs being lost, all of those hideous issues that are going on around us make it impossible to even think about spending money or making kids happy with a little something under the tree.  But with Pennies2Win.com, no ‘family meeting’ has to be called just to purchase one item.  With Pennies2Win, there are no skyrocketing, ridiculous prices (and, no offense, but you don’t have to be scared of eBay ‘listers’ anymore).  With Pennies2Win you already KNOW the product is real, you bought it, and it will be shipped – done deal.  They have actually put together a WORRY-FREE and FUN shopping experience!  One of the phrases that should be up in lights for all to see is that, Pennies2Win.com allows users to purchase items at up to 99% off retail prices.

You know something has become monumentally accepted and favored by the American public, when there are other sites coming out offering you strategies, rules, and the ‘best ways’ to win your chosen product on penny auction sites.  Literally!  There are gamblers, and various others who are putting up sites all over the internet to guide you through the process so that you can be the recipient of that amazing prize!

These are just some of the suggestions that are ‘floating’ around in cyberspace!

* Focusing on only one auction.

* Looking through all the auctions before deciding which one to ‘bid’ on.  Subconsciously, people pick an auction from the first page of the website simply because it’s on the first page, but there are so many others to choose from – so look around before deciding.

* There are power bidders on all sites trying to get their name ingrained in stone as being the ‘baddest’ and the ‘best’ so that you’ll fear them.  Usually power bidders spend more on bids than the actual cost of the item just to gain that reputation, so be wary.

* And, no, it really doesn’t matter what time of day you decide to make your bids. A lot of bids come from overseas, so waking up before dawn to win things is really not necessary.

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Register on Pennies2Win.com.  If you want to bid in auctions to get tremendous savings, register first (AND the registration is free.)  There are no “hidden” costs to becoming a member! After registration, you simply receive a confirmation email to let you know you are now a part of this incredible shopping experience.  Simply click the link in the email to confirm the set-up of your account.  It really is THAT easy to start.

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In the end, it really doesn’t get any better than this!  Well…maybe it could get a little better.  I’ll let you all know when the Mustangs start to sell!

Until Next Time, Everybody!

For More Information see:

www.pennies2win.com

All children wearing Halloween costumes will ride for free onboard the Ripley’s Red Sightseeing Trains Saturday October 29 and Sunday October 30.  Each child must be accompanied by a parent, each of whom will ride for half price.  In addition, all trick-or-treaters will be given free candy at various stops along the seven mile sightseeing route.  The event will take place at all of Ripley’s Red Sightseeing Trains locations.

.  In addition to the regularly scheduled Ghost Train Adventure, Ripley’s will offer the S.I.N. (Safety in Numbers) Tour, a Walking Ghost Adventure, and a book signing by noted Florida author David Lapham.

The Ghost Train Adventure tours (the regular 90 minute paranormal investigation which takes guests through the city and into the haunted Ripley’s Castle Warden) begin at 7:15 p.m. all three evenings.  The S.I.N. ghost train tour will be offered at various times beginning at 6:45 p.m. each of the three evenings.  This 75 minute interactive paranormal investigation takes guests to the old Fairbanks Plantation (the current location of the forthcoming St. Augustine Haunted History Museum) and to the ancient Indian burial grounds at the Fountain of Youth.  There will also be free trick-or-treat candy for the kids and Family Fun Walking Ghost Tours all three evenings beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The ghosts of St. Augustine always seem to bring author David Lapham back to this Ancient City.  His first two books Ghosts of St. Augustine and Ancient City Hauntings focused entirely on the this city’s paranormal tales, while his latest release Ghosthunting Florida chronicles hauntings throughout the Sunshine State.  Lapham will be signing copies Tuesday October 25 beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Please contact Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! at 824-1606 for reservations and more information or go to  www.ghosttrainadventure.com.

HALLOWEEN ADVENTURES AWAIT

IN ANCIENT ST. AUGUSTINE

  ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Oct. 11) - When it comes to selecting the perfect place for ghostly fun, it’s difficult to find a more haunted location than the Nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine, Florida. With nearly 450 years of history, ancient narrow streets, two cemeteries with graves dating back hundreds of years, a brooding Spanish fortress and endless stories of roaming spirits and things that go bump in the night, it’s the place to be for all things scary.   Despite daylight’s warm Florida sun and beautiful Atlantic beaches, every night of the year features ghost tours and spooky encounters. But when Halloween approaches, that’s when the spirits really get busy. They have even set up this Creepy website.

Here are some St. Augustine Halloween adventures awaiting intrepid souls and fun-seeking spirits:

October 1 – 31

GHOSTS AND GRAVESTONES FRIGHTSEEING ADVENTURES

Explore the darker side of the Nation’s Oldest City on this tour that was just named by Southern Living magazine as one of the five best in the South. Re-live the historic haunted tales and legends found at every turn. In addition, the tour includes a visit to Lighthouse Park, where the ghosts of three little girls are said to still haunt the place of their tragic drowning. Plus, take part in a ghost-hunting excursion to the Old Jail, famous for the paranormal activity found there. Beginning at 8 p.m., Ghosts & Gravestones tours leave nightly from the Old Town Trolley Welcome Center at 27 San Marco Avenue. Price is $26 for adults and $14 for children ages 6 – 12 (5 and under are free). Reservations are required. Please call (904) 829-3800 to check availability and reserve your seats.

October 1- 31

ST. AUGUSTINE CITY WALKS HALLOWEEN AND SAMHAIN TOURS

Through the month of October, St. Augustine City Walks Tours willhonor the historical and ancient origins of Halloween and Samhain, The Celtic New Year!  Each of their  tours, The St. Augustine Pub Crawl; The St. Augustine CREEPY Crawl; History, Mystery, Mayhem & Murder!; Savory Faire ~ A Food Tour with Taste!; and the Plaza Stroll, will celebrate the history and origins of Halloween’s modern day customs – Bonfires, The Jack-O-Lantern, Dressing Up in Costume, Trick or Treating and more!  For more information, call 904.540.3476 or visit www.StAugustineCityWalks.com.   

October 1-31 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only)

HALLOWEEN CORN MAZE

Get hopelessly lost in a nine-acre maze! Fun for the entire family! This second annual maze is at the Sykes and Cooper Farms off SR 207 in Elkton, Florida (about five miles east of I-95 Exit 311). Plus, don’t miss Jack the braying donkey, the awesome pumpkin slingshot and the cow train! Tickets (cash only) are $8 per person (children under 2 are free).   The maze is open on Fridays 5-10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m.   For more information, go to www.sycofarms.com or call904.692.1084.

October 1-31 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only)

ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE DARK OF THE MOON TOURS

Go on the only tour that takes participants to the top of tower of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and into the eerie Keeper’s House. Find out why the Scyfy Network’s Ghost Hunters program called the Lighthouse the “Mona Lisa of paranormal sites.” Tours begin at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children ages 7-11. Reservations are required. (Private 90-minute, 3-hour and 5-hour tours are also available.) Call 904.829.0745.

October 1-31 (Friday and Saturday nights only)

A NIGHT IN THE OLD JAIL

Get trained to be a ghost hunter by professionals from Paranormal Seekers. Spend three hours using paranormal-detecting equipment inside the Old Jail and learn about the amazing amount of paranormal activity that has been observed in the building. The tour is from 10:45 p.m. until 2 a.m. Admission is $80 per person; $35 for children under 12 (children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). For reservations (required), call 904.829.3800.

October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28-30 and 31

PROFESSOR LANE’S HALLOWEEN CIRCUS OF WONDERS

Find out what was left behind after the Circus mysteriously disappeared in the middle of the night in 1878. And just what was up with those clowns? Get the answers and much more at the Haunted House each evening from 7:30-10:30 p.m. at the Spanish Military Hospital, 3 Aviles Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $6. For more information and reservations, call 904.827.0807.

October 14, 15, 21, 22, 28-30 and 31

GHOST TOWN TROLLEY HALLOWEEN EXPRESS

Climb aboard The Ghost Town Trolley Halloween Express and ride through the terrors of the night to the newest and spookiest haunted house in St. Augustine – the Spanish Military Hospital. A ghastly group of clowns has taken up residence at the hospital and they have been sharpening their smiles and surgical tools in anticipation of the arrival of new vic….visitors. They are anxious to share their ghoulish sense of humor. A trolley ticket (includes admission to the Haunted House) is $20, children under 5 not permitted. Tours begin at 8 p.m. from the Old Town Trolley Welcome Center at 27 San Marco Avenue. Reservations required – call 904.829.3800.

October 21, 22, 28 & 29

FLORIDA‘S HAUNTED TRAILS AT THE FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM

Experience a hauntingly fun evening with the entire family at the Florida Agricultural Museum in Palm Coast. Activities include a haunted house, storytelling, magic shows, a haunted farm, wagon rides, carnival games and a headless horseman. It all takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is $8, children under 5 are free. Florida Agricultural Museum is located at the corner of Old Kings Road and US 1 in Palm Coast. For more information, call 386.446.7630, or visit www.MyAgMuseum.com.

October 28 & 29

HALLOWEEN CIRCUS WALKING TOUR

Learn about the Haunted City and the mysterious circus of 1878 on this spine-chilling walking tour. This special tour departs from the Love Tree located at 6 Cordova Street (next to the Tolomato Cemetery) in St. Augustine and includes an excursion into the Love Tree cottage and ends with a thrilling visit to The Halloween Haunted Hospital on Aviles Street. Walking tours get underway every half- hour from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $14. For reservations, call 904.827.0807.

October 28 & 29

POTTER’S WAX MUSEUM HISTORY AND HAUNTS

See Potter’s Wax Museum in entirely different ways – with a “ghost detector” or by candlelight. The Friday night tour is a Paranormal Experience that allows participants to learn the basics of ghost hunting while using an EMF detector to find spirits in the haunted museum. On Saturday night, a Candlelight Tour provides a rare opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at the museum and hear about actual bone-chilling encounters experienced by the museum staff. Potter’s is located at 17 King Street in St. Augustine. Both tours are approximately one hour in length and are appropriate for age 13 and up.. Tickets are $22 per person and reservations are required.. Call 904.829.9056.

October 28 & 29

GHOST HATTIE’S HALLOWEEN CONTEST

Compete against ghosts, ghouls and goblins in this second annual costume contest held at Swamp Hattie’s Lair, 11 A Aviles Street – the oldest street in St. Augustine. This year’s competition will be doubly frightening because gory ‘Gators and demented Dawgs will be included in a special Florida/Georgia Fan Competition. Door prizes, prizes for best costumes, trick, treats and swamp water included – entry is Free! The competition is Friday 5-9 p.m.; and Saturday 5 p.m.- midnight. For complete details, go to www.SwampHattie.com .

October 28 – 30

THE PIRATE GATHERING

Celebrate the Golden Age of Piracy in the Nation’s oldest city during the 4^th annual gathering of pirates from all over the South. See a pirate mutiny, weapons demonstrations, sailor’s encampment, shop in the Thieves Market and hear stories of the high seas, history and sea shanties.   For more information, call904.824.4997 or visit www.pirategathering.com.

October 28 – 31

HAUNTED HEARSE RIDE

Experience a genuine St. Augustine ghost tour through the darkest side of the historic downtown riding in a gothic hearse.  Rides depart at 5, 6, 7, 8, 9:15, and 11:30 p.m. from Beerhammer’s located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine.  Tickets are $30 for adults and $18 for children under 12. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visithttp://www.ghostaugustine.com.      

October 28 – 31

HAUNTED PUB TOUR

Get ready to face the Spirits! Hear intoxicating tales while enjoying the ales, or other beverages, at four of St. Augustine’s old haunts. Each stop is 30 to 40 minutes, just enough time to soak up your favorite drink, haunting Halloween stories and the ghostly atmosphere before you’ll step outside for a refreshing easy stroll to the next pub. The Pub Tours depart at 5, 7, 8:30, 9 and 9:30 p.m. from Beerhammer’s located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine. Reservations are recommended. Tickets for this adults-only tour are $17per person. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visithttp://www.ghostaugustine.com.      

October 28 – 31

HAUNTED ST AUGUSTINE PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION

Learn how to assess seemingly haunted phenomena.  Bring your cameras and your wits. The investigations begin at 6 and 9 p.m. at Beerhammer’s located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for children under 12. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visit http://www.ghostaugustine.com.   

October 29 – 31

RIPLEY’S SAFETY-IN-NUMBERS RIDING TOUR

Hop aboard Ripley’s Safety -in -Number s special Halloween Ghost Tours.  This hauntingly fun tour departs from Ripley’s Castle Warden, 19 San Marco Avenue, and makes stops at the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park and the St. Augustine Haunted History Museum. Tours are at 6:45, 8:15, 10 p.m. and midnight. Tickets are $23 for adults and $11 for children.  904.824.1606www.ghosttrainadventure.com

October 29 – 31

RIPLEY’S GHOST TRAIN ADVENTURE

Hop aboard the Ghost Train for a trip to the paranormal side of haunted St. Augustine.  This ghostly tour travels through some of the oldest city’s most haunted areas. Then the tour makes a final stop a Castle Warden for a back-stage visit where participants can investigate one of the city’s most notorious murder mysteries.   Tours depart from Ripley’s Castle Warden, 19 San Marco Avenue at 7:15; 8; 8:30; 9:15; 9:45; 10:30; 11 p.m. and Midnight.  Tickets are $26 for adults and $13 for children. 904.824.1606www.ghosttrainadventure.com

October 29 -31

FAMILY FUN GHOST WALK ADVENTURES

Bring the kids for some Halloween fun at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Participate in this G-rated ghost walk that promises fun and frolic. The tours are $8 for adults and $4 for children. They depart at 6, 7 & 8 p.m. from the gift shop at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Castle Warden located at 19 San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine. 904.824.1606 www.ghosttrainadventure.com

October 29

GHOSTAUGUSTINE DEAD WALK TOUR

If you dare, take this unique walking tour through the narrowest and darkest streets on the south end of the St. Augustine historic area. The tour has several new haunted stories that have not been heard by the public until now! Tours depart at 3, 5, 7:15 and 9:45 p.m. from Beerhammer’s located in Heritage Walk Mall, 162 St. George Street in St. Augustine.  Tickets are $13 for adults and $8 for children under 12. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 904.824-8840, or visithttp://www.ghostaugustine.com.   

October 29 & 30

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT AT THE ALLIGATOR FARM

Dress in your favorite costume and head to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park for candy, a creepy creature experience, animal trading cards, and a great time!  Young ghosts and goblins can wander the wild walkway and encounter costumed animal keepers with creepy creatures and candy! There will be an alligator feeding show and a drawing for prizes. It all takes place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. For more information, call 904.824.3337 or visitwww.alligatorFarm.com.

October 29

SPOOKTACULAR SHOPPING

Uptown Saturday Night takes on a festive, Halloween theme when the galleries, antique stores and unique shops along St. Augustine’s San Marco Avenue stay open until 9 p.m.   Meet-the-artists, book signings, live music and more create a lively, Halloween atmosphere for bargain hunters. Plus, there’s free parking at the Mission Nombre de Dios. For more information, call 904.823.9263.

October 30 & 31

PHANTOM DJ AND HALLOWEEN PARTY AT RIPLEY’S BELIEVE OIT OR NOT MUSEUM!

The Phantom DJ will provide the jammin’ tunes for the Halloween party atmosphere at Ripley’s Castle Warden. There will be lots of family fun featuring lasers, music, and free candy, glow-sticks, and prizes.  Watch for a special appearance by the Ghost Busters. 904.824.1606 www.ghosttrainadventure.com

October 30

COSTUME PARADE AND TRICK OR TREATING

Join Ancient City Tours for their annual Halloween costume parade/contest and trick or treating for the children. The parade will begin at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 30 at the Clock Tower at the St. Augustine Visitor Information Center, 1 Castillo Drive, and end in the downtown Plaza for the costume judging. (Registration will begin at 1:30 p.m.). Then safe trick or treating will take place along the historic streets of the downtown area from 3:30 – 5 p.m. It’s all FREE! For more information, call 904.827.0807

Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida’s Historic Coast includes historic St. Augustine, the outstanding golf and seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra and 42 miles of pristine, Atlantic beaches. For more information on events, activities and vacation opportunities in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at   www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com, become a fan on Facebook or call 1.800.653.2489.