Saturday, December 31, 2005

TCS Ads ~ 2005

========================= NYSIA ADV =========================
Come to NYSIA's Monthly Meeting this coming Monday, June 20th
This month's topic: "The Impact of Service Oriented Architecture on Business
Practices and Methods."  The software industry is experiencing a strategic
shift.  Dr. Daniel Sabbah of IBM will discuss how the adoption of a component-
based software development model ultimately represents a significant set of
changes to management systems, processes, infrastructure and technology.
Date: 6/20 Time: 6:00PM - 8:15PM Place: JPMorgan Chase, 270 Park Ave. 3rd Fl.
RSVP: http://www.nysia.org/events/calendar.cfm?year=2005&month=6#423
========================= NYSIA ADV =========================

========================= JOBS! =========================
PHP Developer needed in Midtown Manhattan
     * Investment firm is looking for a top-notch web developer who is skilled
in an enterprise environment and understands not only how to build good
technology, but also how to build scalable technology.  Client wants to expand
their current team with self-motivated creative people who thrive in an
environment where they are constantly challenged. *
     REQUIREMENTS: 3+ years PHP experience, actual real-world use of PHP 5.x,
Smarty templates; Thorough understanding of object oriented programming,
Thorough understanding of database concepts and principles (specifically with
exposure to MySQL 4.x); Advanced knowledge of a UNIX type operating system
(preferably Linux); Apache; Source control with SVN or CVS; Excellent
organization and time-management abilities; Strong work ethic; Conscientious
nature; Prior work in Financial Services industry a plus
   
CONTACT: Matt Cummings [mattc@designstrategy.com].  212-370-0000
========================= JOBS! ========================= 


========================= JOBS! =========================
High profile, high paying, technical jobs can be found
through contacting
Mr. Matthew Cummings [mattc@designstrategy.com]
212-370-0000
========================= JOBS! =========================

Friday, December 23, 2005

Courtney Pulitzer’s Cyber Scene ~ Nov & Dec 2005


December 23, 2005

Merry Christmas and Bah Humbug.  I’ve been busy these past few months and have been getting out, going to assorted events, keeping in touch with various people, lunching, dinnering and theatering.  I vacillate between resurrecting this newsletter in a big way and adhering to my promise of a series of reunion events.  But it gets disheartening when you meet up with people who don’t follow through or drop the ball.  And, I’m tired of holding the ball all the time.  So, I go about my life, volunteering in different venues that mean a lot to me and I’m living my life here in the Great Big Apple, while the world goes on and while dramas play out in the stage of life.  So, without much more further ado, here are my journal entries, as it were, for some things over the past two months.  Enjoy, or not.  Doesn’t matter to me.  Okay, it does matter, which is why I still do this and why I still love you all! :)

NOVEMBER

November 10, 2005
While the rest of my office was enjoying a private viewing of the new observation deck, Top of the Rock, at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, I was serving Veuve Cliquot to private equity investors at the New York Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth’s Private Equity Marketplace & Wine Tasting at the New York Athletic Club.  Bert Alimansky was there, as was Neal Lorberbaum [nlorberbaum@optonline.net], who now got a good gig going consulting.  It’s always encouraging to see how healthy the private equity marketplace is.  There’s lots of money out there people, so go get it!

November 15, 2005
Another prolific and successful friend, Ms. Stacy Horn [http://www.echonyc.com/~horn/restless/]  was reading an excerpt of her book “The Restless Sleep” at the KGB bar on East 4th Street.  Not only was it riveting, but it’s so very sad to think of all the people, all those souls, who have been extinguished before their time, and who’s files, if not solved sooner than later just get boxed up and moved into the basements of precincts until the precincts move and then just tossed.  That’s only a fate I’d wish on my most favorite enemies...  Stacy read to us about a young woman who’d been murdered in her 20s...never to be solved.  Considering the popularity of these types of dramas on television and movies, I’d recommend checking out this fascinating read too!

November 19, 2005
Upon Jim Sosnicky’s [http://www.iraqorsomething.com/ -- most recent writings] recommendation I went to see Synapse Production’s [http://www.synapseproductions.org] of George Orwell’s Animal Farm.  [http://www.synapseproductions.org/whatson/afinfo.html]  I’d met the Artistic Director and Founder, Ginerva Bull, at one of his famous cocktail gatherings “back in the day.”  It’s nice to know that there’s some real thinking theater out there.  Animal Farm is on national tour right now, but you can find other great meaty pieces at the Connelly Theater on East 4th Street.  Check out all their productions! 

November 21, 2005
Back in the East Village I went to the famous La Mama Theater [http://www.lamama.org/] to hear my friend Donysha Smith in the Poetry Electric Series.  Getting to hear a spectrum of woman speak about their life experiences, which are as different as they were, was another treat that’s so easy to sample in NYC.  Hosted by William Electric Black, we heard Donysha, Michelle Valladares, Ilka Scobie, rap, swoon or sway with the rhythm of their words, mesmerizing us with the melodies and words marinated in meaning.  Her next performance is Monday, January 16, 2006 in the amplified poetry experience of “Rock Poets,” which is spokenword meets rock n roll. 

November 22, 2005
The very next day I had a delightful lunch with Ms. Fran Pomerantz of Korn/Ferry International [http://www.kornferry.com/].  We dined on miso soup and sushi at SushiZen on West 44th Street, which fit the bill (when it finally arrived!--I think they went out fishing just after we placed the order).  Nevermind.  It was more time to chat with Fran and get to know one another. Our connector was the prolific Mark Jeffrey [http://markjeffrey.typepad.com/]  And, as with all good connections, we found lots to talk about between the “old days” and life in NYC (she just moved here) and the placement services business today.

A Special Report from our famous intrepid reporter ~ Tamar Alexia Fleishman
Interview with Country Music Showman and Entrepreneur Two Foot Fred

Freddie Gill, or as he known in country music circles, "Two Foot Fred", has created a whirlwind of a career for himself, despite having a form of dwarfism as diastrophic displaysia. I spoke to him by telephone and he assures me that "other than size," he's in perfect health. Freddie is a graduate of Ball State's prestigious entrepreneurship program, one of the top programs of its kind in the U.S.

Freddie was the consummate businessman, with restaurants, pubs, real estate and even a spice company called Phat Freddie's, when a series of e-mails changed his life. Anyone who knows my life story can understand why I just had to talk to another person who got into "the biz" with a bunch of e-mails. Several years ago, Freddie met country star John Rich at Nashville's annual fan gathering, Fanfair. They exchanged e-mail addresses and a couple years later, Rich let Freddie know that he was putting together a band, Big and Rich, and would love to feature him in their videos. He has since appeared on stage and in videos with Big and Rich, Cletus T. Judd, Cowboy Troy and Gretchen Wilson. He's even directed two videos himself! His web site, where you can see videos, catch concert dates and buy stuff is www.twofootfred.com.

You have a spice company; how'd you get into that?

"I owned a full service steak house, four or five years ago. I played with spices. I made some blends and went to a spice company. I asked if we could manufacture this on a large scale, and the answer was "yes". I have four blends and two pure spices."

Why do two pure spices?

"They pure garlic and pure onion, so people could add them to the blends to suit their taste, turn things up a little."

You took entrepreneurship classes at Ball State; what was your first career goal?

"I always wanted to own a restaurant. I did that for a while, but it was too time consuming, a restaurant consumes all of you. I have to be a little more free."

You started working with Big and Rich through a series of e-mails. But I would imagine that John Rich doesn't just give his e-mail to anyone.

"John Rich has this uncanny ability to see the potential in people. He did that with Gretchen Wilson and he did it with me."

How do you keep a handle on all your businesses?

"Through the Internet and e-mails. The Internet's awesome. At first it was hard, though. I answer all the e-mails I get through my web site. It's something I do consistently, I'm proud to do it. I wouldn't want anyone else to answer my mail, I wouldn't want anyone putting words in my mouth."

www.twofootfred.com


The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation – an update from John Bates [http://johnbates.com/], who is now the Director of Membership of the foundation [http://www.renewablehydrogen.org]

Are you tired of paying so much at the pump? Are you worried that the rise in oil prices will fuel inflation, or worse? Do you wish we had energy security, instead of dependence on often unstable and unfriendly foreign suppliers? Would you like to do something about all this? Then meet The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation. We believe that oil prices will
continue to rise dramatically, though erratically, and that urgent action is needed now. Action that paves the way for alternatives to oil. Joining The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation is a vote for the incredible resourcefulness of people, both in America and the World. Unlike the
pain at the pump, this is a vote for a cleaner, healthier, and renewable future. We are proud to invite you to join the The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation  team. We're launching our very first membership drive ever and we want you to take this opportunity to join us.  At The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation we develop and deploy alternative fuels, and ways to produce them that are cleaner, safer, and more sustainable. We have world renowned scientists, and active, forward thinking citizens working together to create and implement an alternative fuels and energy agenda apart from industry or governmental pressures. You can find more at our website, http://www.renewablehydrogen.org/security. Please click the Join Us link and become a member today. You are the vanguard of a new age and we salute you!


NIGHT TRAIN, Kentucky's hard core Southern rock band, can be heard on the playlist of www.43thehawk.com and very soon on www.allsouthernrock.com for free! But, don't miss the live shows with Dave "Chico" Prince, Bobby Lee Adkins and George Ray -- for show dates, movies, confessing your sins and cool black t-shirts designed by award-winning artist Tim Hall, check out www.8thgradebride.com.

HOLIDAY PARTIES!
Woowee.  Things are picking up in New York City.  There were on average four holiday parties that I was invited to each week in the month of December.  But I’ve been a very bad girl and didn’t go to any of them!  I know, I know.  Coal in my stocking this year.  (Well, if I give it enough pressure it could turn into a diamond, right?)

And this year’s line-up: 

HWH PR -- http://www.hwhpr.com/PR/HWHinvite/invite.html

Steve Masur and his law offices -- Thursday, December 8th, 6pm - 9pm, D-Lounge, 101 East 15th Street

MOUSE – seeking donations for their annual fund.  There’s good karma in that!  http://www.mouse.org/annualfund/


Webgrrls NYC – They have a lot to celebrate this year!  They’ve reinvigorated the chapter, renewed the activities, and created some great momentum for 2006. Also, Webgrrls NYC is the first and largest chapter of Webgrrls, started in 1995, by Aliza Sherman (who’s moved onto AMAZING NEW THINGS – [http://www.mediaegg.com/]), and this year is our
10th anniversary!  Come and celebrate with us at Gaetana, a charming Italian restaurant in the heart of the West Village.  Wednesday, December 7th, 2005, 6:30 - 8:30 PM.  http://EventMe.com/Link/zbDbR8gzBaA/0/xHaOb5zEpSU.aspx

SAJA Holiday Party -- Wed, Dec. 7 at Maharaja, 6:30-10:30 pm

The annual Asian American Journalists Association-New York Chapter Holiday
Party! Held at the swanky Bentley Hotel. Come catch up with old and new AAJA friends and get sweeping views of New York landmarks, the 59th Street bridge and the East River at the Bentley Hotel's indoor rooftop bar! Meet the new 2006 AAJA-NY leaders.  Get a chance to win door prizes and bid on fabulous holiday gifts at a LIVE auction including tickets to see "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," spa packages and beauty baskets.  (All proceeds will go to the AAJA-NY High School Scholarship Fund) Date: Friday, Dec. 2, 2005, Time: 9 p.m. to midnight


HOLIDAY PARTIES!

Woowee. Things are picking up in New York City. There were on average four holiday parties that I was invited to each week in the month of December. But I’ve been a very bad girl and didn’t go to any of them! I know, I know. Coal in my stocking this year. (Well, if I give it enough pressure it could turn into a diamond, right?)

And this year’s line-up:

HWH PR -- http://www.hwhpr.com/PR/HWHinvite/invite.html

Steve Masur and his law offices -- Thursday, December 8th, 6pm - 9pm, D-Lounge, 101 East 15th Street

MOUSE – seeking donations for their annual fund. There’s good karma in that! http://www.mouse.org/annualfund/

NYSIA -- http://www.nysia.org/publications/invites/2005/images/holidayparty.gif

Webgrrls NYC – They have a lot to celebrate this year! They’ve reinvigorated the chapter, renewed the activities, and created some great momentum for 2006. Also, Webgrrls NYC is the first and largest chapter of Webgrrls, started in 1995, by Aliza Sherman (who’s moved onto AMAZING NEW THINGS – [http://www.mediaegg.com/]), and this year is our
10th anniversary! Come and celebrate with us at Gaetana, a charming Italian restaurant in the heart of the West Village. Wednesday, December 7th, 2005, 6:30 - 8:30 PM. http://EventMe.com/Link/zbDbR8gzBaA/0/xHaOb5zEpSU.aspx

SAJA Holiday Party -- Wed, Dec. 7 at Maharaja, 6:30-10:30 pm

The annual Asian American Journalists Association-New York Chapter Holiday
Party! Held at the swanky Bentley Hotel. Come catch up with old and new AAJA friends and get sweeping views of New York landmarks, the 59th Street bridge and the East River at the Bentley Hotel's indoor rooftop bar! Meet the new 2006 AAJA-NY leaders. Get a chance to win door prizes and bid on fabulous holiday gifts at a LIVE auction including tickets to see "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," spa packages and beauty baskets. (All proceeds will go to the AAJA-NY High School Scholarship Fund) Date: Friday, Dec. 2, 2005, Time: 9 p.m. to midnight

NIGHT TRAIN

NIGHT TRAIN, Kentucky's hard core Southern rock band, can be heard on the playlist of www.43thehawk.com and very soon on www.allsouthernrock.com for free! But, don't miss the live shows with Dave "Chico" Prince, Bobby Lee Adkins and George Ray -- for show dates, movies, confessing your sins and cool black t-shirts designed by award-winning artist Tim Hall, check out www.8thgradebride.com.

The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation – an update from John Bates

The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation – an update from John Bates [http://johnbates.com/], who is now the Director of Membership of the foundation [http://www.renewablehydrogen.org]

Are you tired of paying so much at the pump? Are you worried that the rise in oil prices will fuel inflation, or worse? Do you wish we had energy security, instead of dependence on often unstable and unfriendly foreign suppliers? Would you like to do something about all this? Then meet The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation. We believe that oil prices will continue to rise dramatically, though erratically, and that urgent action is needed now. Action that paves the way for alternatives to oil. Joining The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation is a vote for the incredible resourcefulness of people, both in America and the World. Unlike the
pain at the pump, this is a vote for a cleaner, healthier, and renewable future. We are proud to invite you to join the The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation team. We're launching our very first membership drive ever and we want you to take this opportunity to join us. At The Renewable Hydrogen Foundation we develop and deploy alternative fuels, and ways to produce them that are cleaner, safer, and more sustainable. We have world renowned scientists, and active, forward thinking citizens working together to create and implement an alternative fuels and energy agenda apart from industry or governmental pressures. You can find more at our website, http://www.renewablehydrogen.org/security. Please click the Join Us link and become a member today. You are the vanguard of a new age and we salute you!

Two Foot Fred


A Special Report from our famous intrepid reporter ~ Tamar Alexia Fleishman
Interview with Country Music Showman and Entrepreneur Two Foot Fred

Freddie Gill, or as he known in country music circles, "Two Foot Fred", has created a whirlwind of a career for himself, despite having a form of dwarfism as diastrophic displaysia. I spoke to him by telephone and he assures me that "other than size," he's in perfect health. Freddie is a graduate of Ball State's prestigious entrepreneurship program, one of the top programs of its kind in the U.S.

Freddie was the consummate businessman, with restaurants, pubs, real estate and even a spice company called Phat Freddie's, when a series of e-mails changed his life. Anyone who knows my life story can understand why I just had to talk to another person who got into "the biz" with a bunch of e-mails. Several years ago, Freddie met country star John Rich at Nashville's annual fan gathering, Fanfair. They exchanged e-mail addresses and a couple years later, Rich let Freddie know that he was putting together a band, Big and Rich, and would love to feature him in their videos. He has since appeared on stage and in videos with Big and Rich, Cletus T. Judd, Cowboy Troy and Gretchen Wilson. He's even directed two videos himself! His web site, where you can see videos, catch concert dates and buy stuff is www.twofootfred.com.

You have a spice company; how'd you get into that?

"I owned a full service steak house, four or five years ago. I played with spices. I made some blends and went to a spice company. I asked if we could manufacture this on a large scale, and the answer was "yes". I have four blends and two pure spices."

Why do two pure spices?

"They pure garlic and pure onion, so people could add them to the blends to suit their taste, turn things up a little."

You took entrepreneurship classes at Ball State; what was your first career goal?

"I always wanted to own a restaurant. I did that for a while, but it was too time consuming, a restaurant consumes all of you. I have to be a little more free."

You started working with Big and Rich through a series of e-mails. But I would imagine that John Rich doesn't just give his e-mail to anyone.

"John Rich has this uncanny ability to see the potential in people. He did that with Gretchen Wilson and he did it with me."

How do you keep a handle on all your businesses?

"Through the Internet and e-mails. The Internet's awesome. At first it was hard, though. I answer all the e-mails I get through my web site. It's something I do consistently, I'm proud to do it. I wouldn't want anyone else to answer my mail, I wouldn't want anyone putting words in my mouth."

www.twofootfred.com

Lunch with Fran Pomeranz

November 22, 2005
The very next day I had a delightful lunch with Ms. Fran Pomerantz of Korn/Ferry International [http://www.kornferry.com/]. We dined on miso soup and sushi at SushiZen on West 44th Street, which fit the bill (when it finally arrived!--I think they went out fishing just after we placed the order). Nevermind. It was more time to chat with Fran and get to know one another. Our connector was the prolific Mark Jeffrey [http://markjeffrey.typepad.com/] And, as with all good connections, we found lots to talk about between the “old days” and life in NYC (she just moved here) and the placement services business today.

La Mama Poet's - Poetry Electric

November 21, 2005
Back in the East Village I went to the famous La Mama Theater [http://www.lamama.org/] to hear my friend Donysha Smith in the Poetry Electric Series. Getting to hear a spectrum of woman speak about their life experiences, which are as different as they were, was another treat that’s so easy to sample in NYC. Hosted by William Electric Black, we heard Donysha, Michelle Valladares, Ilka Scobie, rap, swoon or sway with the rhythm of their words, mesmerizing us with the melodies and words marinated in meaning. Her next performance is Monday, January 16, 2006 in the amplified poetry experience of “Rock Poets,” which is spokenword meets rock n roll.

Synapse Production of "Animal Farm"

November 19, 2005
Upon Jim Sosnicky’s [http://www.iraqorsomething.com/ -- most recent writings] recommendation I went to see Synapse Production’s [http://www.synapseproductions.org] of George Orwell’s Animal Farm. [http://www.synapseproductions.org/whatson/afinfo.html] I’d met the Artistic Director and Founder, Ginerva Bull, at one of his famous cocktail gatherings “back in the day.” It’s nice to know that there’s some real thinking theater out there. Animal Farm is on national tour right now, but you can find other great meaty pieces at the Connelly Theater on East 4th Street. Check out all their productions!

The Restless Sleep

November 15, 2005
Another prolific and successful friend, Ms. Stacy Horn [http://www.echonyc.com/~horn/restless/] was reading an excerpt of her book “The Restless Sleep” at the KGB bar on East 4th Street. Not only was it riveting, but it’s so very sad to think of all the people, all those souls, who have been extinguished before their time, and who’s files, if not solved sooner than later just get boxed up and moved into the basements of precincts until the precincts move and then just tossed. That’s only a fate I’d wish on my most favorite enemies... Stacy read to us about a young woman who’d been murdered in her 20s...never to be solved. Considering the popularity of these types of dramas on television and movies, I’d recommend checking out this fascinating read too!

ACG Wine Tasting

November 10, 2005
While the rest of my office was enjoying a private viewing of the new observation deck, Top of the Rock, at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, I was serving Veuve Cliquot to private equity investors at the New York Chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth’s Private Equity Marketplace & Wine Tasting at the New York Athletic Club. Bert Alimansky was there, as was Neal Lorberbaum [nlorberbaum@optonline.net], who now got a good gig going consulting. It’s always encouraging to see how healthy the private equity marketplace is. There’s lots of money out there people, so go get it!

Merry Christmas and Bah Humbug.

Merry Christmas and Bah Humbug. I’ve been busy these past few months and have been getting out, going to assorted events, keeping in touch with various people, lunching, dinnering and theatering. I vacillate between resurrecting this newsletter in a big way and adhering to my promise of a series of reunion events. But it gets disheartening when you meet up with people who don’t follow through or drop the ball. And, I’m tired of holding the ball all the time. So, I go about my life, volunteering in different venues that mean a lot to me and I’m living my life here in the Great Big Apple, while the world goes on and while dramas play out in the stage of life. So, without much more further ado, here are my journal entries, as it were, for some things over the past two months. Enjoy, or not. Doesn’t matter to me. Okay, it does matter, which is why I still do this and why I still love you all! :)

Thursday, December 22, 2005

Surviving "Club Fed"- An interview of David Novak by Tamar Alexia Fleishman, Esq.


I interviewed David Novak, of Davrie Communications, Inc. (www.davrie.com), a company designed to help those sentenced to federal incarceration deal with all aspects of "doing time". Novak is a real-life ex-con. Before Martha Stewart comes out with her inevitable book about prison life, here’s the real scoop on what it’s like to be a "white-collar" ex-con.
Q: You spent a year in federal prison as a result of a mail-fraud conviction. What kind of background did you have growing up?
A: My father was a Marine officer. We lived all over the world. I was one of the last group of people who gained prominence without a college degree. In 1995, I had an aviation company and staged an accident for an insurance claim. I had warped values, greed. I told the authorities -- I had an internal struggle. Because of the money involved, I exceeded the point system with the federal sentencing guidelines to get probation.
Q: People perceive federal prison to be a "county club" atmosphere, at least compared to state prison. What do you say to that?
A: Spend some time in prison and you will radically change your mind. That may have been true in the Nixon era, when you could have your own clothes and food.
Q: Do you feel that prison rehabilitates people?
A: Prison is not rehabilitative at all. It is for warehousing human beings. You have to play safe and follow the rules. There is nothing to do, with the exception of federal courses, such as English as a second language. The recidivism rate is high. I "learned my lesson" in two weeks. People become bitter in prison.
Q: Many people would hide and be ashamed of being in prison. How did you decide to turn lemons into lemonade?
A: In breaking with my past. My inability, in the past, to show I was having a hard time. "Never let them see you sweat". Committing white lies. I was never proud of prison, but I was proud of the change. If I project shame, I will get that back.
Q: Do you have any new projects in the works?
A: I just completed supervised probation. I am involved with a movement to restore the vote to ex-cons. This law is heavily weighted against African-Americans. I’m not saying the law is cruel and unusual. It’s a philosophy -- it goes against liberty. At what point do they stop paying the price? It’s so disparate from state to state.
Q: I’ve read where you said that prison makes you confront your prejudices. How so?
A: There was a a real stratification. I got intellectually lazy. Prison was like Bed-Sty.
Q: Tell about any forbidden "luxuries" there were in prison.
A: The language changes. Cell was a "house". 250 pound men were knitting. Photos of the outside. The Robb Report is very popular - a dream.
Q: Which do you feel are better: federal prisons run by the government or by contract?
A: The government ones are better; they have to be accountable. Contract prisons are not so. Prisoners are a commodity, x per $ per year. It’s dehumanizing.

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

Walmart's Against the Wall

Check out -- "Uncovered: The War on Iraq" and "Outfoxed" released his latest film, "Wal-Mart: the High Cost of Low Prices." It's a powerful expose on the toll the Wal-Mart behemoth has taken on workers and communities cross the country, and how we can help turn the tide. Buy an advance copy of the powerful new film online at: http://www.walmartmovie.com/watch.php?track=moveon. From the MoveOn website: "Wal-Mart is owned by the nation's wealthiest family, but its average salary is below the poverty line--leaving over half of it's full time employees without health care or dependent on Medicaid. It drives own labor standards at home and around the world. It has destroyed countless small businesses in thousands of communities. And it does it all by absorbing billions of dollars in corporate welfare every year."

Business Plan Archive Updates

The Business Plan Archive just did a short pilot survey. They will use the results to develop a more comprehensive survey that will be sent to all registered users of the Archive. Please contact David Kirsch, Director, Business Plan Archive directly, dkirsch[at]rhsmith.umd.edu, if you have any questions about the test survey or any other operational aspect pertaining to the Digital Archive of the Dot-Com Era. Also, please visit the new page of the Business Plan Archive: http://www.businessplanarchive.org/video/dotcomboomerang The page has links to short video presentations of "Extreme Survival Stories" from the Dot-Com Era.

Be Thankful You have the right to Vote

Be Thankful You have the right...now exercise it come next November! The United States ranks 139th out of 172 democratic nations for our voting record during the last half century. We lag behind Russia, India, Germany and the United Kingdom, among others. We cannot sit back and let others determine our laws and leaders. In the 2004 election, 54% of votes cast were cast by women-a 2% increase since 2000. Not bad...but we can do better! Take the opportunity to express your views and speak your mind. Check out your senators websites and sign up for MegaVote, where you can track your senators and representatives voting by email: http://www.congress.org/congressorg/megavote/

Night Train

Night Train, Kentucky's hard Southern rock band, will be doing a free live web cast on 12/1/05 at 8 pm EST on www.artistfirst.com. The hour long show will feature cuts from 8th Grade Bride, Eat More Possum and Cold Beer & Fried Bologna, as well as live interviews and the opportunity to email guitarist Dave "Chico" Prince and drummer Bobby Lee Atkins to have your questions answered on air! Night Train's web site is www.8thgradebride.com.
Booking ?'s: tfleishman@toad.net

Giving Thanks where Thanks are Due.

Thanks to all of you who still read this newsletter. I know I haven't been entirely consistent, but that's due to my personal evolution into "what's next" for Courtney. I'm still working on it, but a few of the key areas where I've been focusing my attentions are:

* Volunteering time as a mentor to Futures For Children, which improves quality of education for American Indian Children through mentoring and training. Mentorship/Sponsorship encourages American Indian children to stay in school and graduate through one-to-one mentoring. Considering all that we've taken from the American Indians, it a small gesture that can have big repercussions. Education is a major key to liberation from modern day enslavements.

I also have signed up to be a Big Sister with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Another way for me to give back--to give kindness, attention and a friendship to another child who wants and needs it.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, 11/23) I'll be with some friends cooking hundreds of Thanksgiving dinners for the homeless.

Personally, I am thankful my family is alive, even if they've been displaced by Hurricane Katrina. I am thankful that we are close and that I have the knowledge and creativity to continue forging a new life and career for myself.

And now...here are some juicy tidbits to savor over the long weekend....
20-something David Felinton is the kind of guy you probably already met at a college party: a super mediocre student, he flunked 10th grade and was suspended many times "for being a bad ass". He picked up a possession of marijuana charge a few years ago while catching some rays in Ocean City, Md. While he has spent time as a substitute teacher, he never held a full-time job . . . until now. Felinton is the Mayor of Huntington, W.Va... Felinton, a Democrat, ran against the 73 year old Republican incumbent, Jean Dean. Dean pretty much fell asleep at the wheel, remaining silent as the interstate was constructed to pass by the city. Huntington’s population free-falled from nearly 100,000 to 52,000. Dean remained silent as industries packed up and left town. Felinton came up with some solid economic development ideas and figured the city couldn’t get any worse.

But Felinton is no born-to-the-manor Kennedy: nobody in his family has ever served in public office and he comes from a middle-class background in suburban Baltimore. He continued to live a frugal existence before he was sworn into his $62,000 a year job; if Felinton broke a shoelace, he’d get pretty upset about it.

West Virginia has many economic problems: the coal mines are stripped, the glass mills have shut down, many uneducated folks. How do you plan to solve Huntington’s problems?

David Felinton: We’re a little bit different here in Huntington. We have Marshall University, which has 13,000 of educated people. Huntington is located on the Ohio River right where the trains meet the water. It’s a major train center. But, our population has dropped from 100,000 to 52,000. Our infrastructure is for 100,000 and we can’t afford it. One of my plans is to give up our airport, which is not equipped for major travel anyway, and have a new one built halfway to Charleston, which is 40 miles away. It’ll be new and better equipped to handle business flights in.

What errors did your opponent make that helped you get elected?

David Felinton: There was a perception that she took care of the wealthiest people in town. She was only seen in certain parts of the city; while I talked to everybody. I have 52,000 bosses now. In this job, you’re not above anybody. She’s 73 and has a British accent, which came off as elitist.

You’ve said regarding campaigning, "It’s a balance of money and time . . . that if you don’t have one, you have to compensate with the other." Did you have a lot of time on your hands?

David Felinton: Well, I had been substitute teaching. In the last few months before the elections, I wasn’t able to, I wasn’t working. I didn’t have as much money, but the sacrifices were worth it. My father lent me some money. I have a lot of discipline, which will help when I’m in office. I watched the long-distance bills, there wasn’t a lot of eating out. I lived like a college student for years, I bought my little groceries and ate in. I’m very conservative with money.

You raised $5,000 in fund-raisers. Tell me about that.

David Felinton: I had one fund-raiser! I didn’t even raise $1,500. The Democratic Women’s Club really supported me, they actively took me under their wing. They took me to meet people. I invested in signs. That definitely adds credibility. Individuals contributed to my campaign. The big money people have to give me more respect now. Without money, you gotta get as much free publicity as you can.

You had to repeat 10th grade and were suspended on several occasions for being a "bad-ass". What is the secret of your success?

David Felinton: Never give up! Make the most of every opportunity you have. You don’t want to step on people on the way. I didn’t underestimate the people without much money.

You’ve been arrested for possession of pot. Did that come up during your campaign? How do you feel about how personal lives of politicians being reported?

David Felinton: It’s part of the job. It didn’t even come up during the campaign -- the local newspaper didn’t take me seriously enough.

In Huntington's Herald Dispatch, they endorsed Jean Dean overwhelmingly and they hardly mentioned you at all. How will you deal with harsh editorials?

David Felinton: That was after their debate. They had this debate, so I called them and I wanted to know the rules, what they wanted to cover. They wouldn’t tell me the rules! So, I wouldn’t participate. They endorsed her and praised some write-in candidate to no end. I can’t even say what I think of the write-in candidate, other than the citizens are lucky they didn’t elect him. I have a much better relationship with the newspaper now. They have shown signs that they are going to treat me more fairly. And they know, there’s another paper just over in Charleston. If they don’t, I will just go to them and they know it.

What kind of advice do you have for young people?

David Felinton: Don’t think that politics is out of reach. I didn’t have any connections. I have been in Huntington for 6 years, 5 were in college. Young people need to vote. I had lots of help from university students. They didn’t realize their vote would count.

Friday, October 28, 2005

The Anti-Violence Project presents the Courage Awards

* November 7, 2005 ~ The Anti-Violence Project presents the Courage Awards.
The New York City Gay & Lesbian Anti-Violence Project’s 9th annual gala event
This year’s event will kick-off the 25th Anniversary Celebration. The Courage Awards event raises greatly needed funds to support the Anti-Violence Project’s critical victim services, and we hope that you will honor us by being a part of this stellar evening. Sam Champion and B.D. Wong host the event, joined by special guest, Julianne Moore. Richard Haymes, outgoing Executive Director of the Anti-Violence Project, will be honored at this year’s event, celebrating seven years of outstanding service to the Anti Violence Project and over 20 years of service to the lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual and HIV-affected community. Other honorees are Deutsche Bank, New York State Senator Thomas K. Duane & New York State Assemblymember Deborah Glick and Safe Horizon.

VIP cocktail reception, in the balcony, 6:00 pm
General cocktail reception, on main floor, opens at 6:30 pm
Dinner 7:30 pm
Awards 8:30 pm
Gotham Hall in New York City

Sponsored by Altria, Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Deutsche Bank, Mercedes-Benz USA, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, the Gill Foundation, People of Color in Crisis, Safe Horizon, Basil Walter Architects, and WABC-TV (list in formation).

Chamber Dance Project Upcoming Projects

* November 1, 2, 4, 10 12 ~ Chamber Dance Project ~ www.chamberdance.org
November 1 ~ Open Rehearsal for Patrons. Joan Weill Center For Dance 405 W. 55th
November 2 ~ Open Rehearsal with Carnegie Hall Notables by invitation only.
November 4 ~ Private Recital by CDP's Violinist Christopher C. Lee (Irvington, NY)
November 10 – 12 ~ Fall Repertory Performances at the Citigroup Theatre
November 10 ~ Opening Night Gala. 7:30pm. $125 ($75 is a tax-deductible donation) includes priority seating and post- performance reception and cocktail party with the artists.

~ Works by 4 choreographers, performed by 8 dancers, featuring the Chamber Dance Project Quartet led by internationally acclaimed violinist Christopher C. Lee. All CDP donors will receive two complementary passes. We depend entirely on active support and participation and we are off to a phenomenal start. $25 general admission. $20 per person apply to groups of 10 or more.

BizBash.com's Trade Show

* Party Central Incorporated for the web, BizBash.com hosted their trade show :The 2005 BiZBash/M&C Meeting and Event Style Show” at Pier 94 on October 20-21, 2005. The first night they had a hall of fame cocktail honoring some great people including: Joel A. Dolci, C.A.E., president and C.E.O. of the New York Society of Association Executives (NYSAE) and organizer of "I Love New York" Day; Ellin Delsener and Dorothy Aschkenasy of Event Associates Inc.,; producers of the Robin Hood Event, New York's top fund-raiser; Suzanne Tobak of Tobak-Lawrence Company, producer of more Broadway events than anyone else in New York; Elyse Kroll, president of ENK International and one of New York's biggest producers of fashion events; Jean McFaddin, founder of McFaddin Event Associates and Macy's former event chief and Pilobolus, a choreographic experience celebrating its 35th anniversary. The show featured a number of sessions catered to even planners and related-service people alike.

And on that note....

* Remember your first? I do. My first freelance HTML project was for Felix Kramer. And he wrote me letting me know that his car project is “going great guns.” Hybrid cars are all the rage, you know. My favorite comedienne Ellen (http://www.toyota.com/html/hybridsynergyview/2005/spring/ellen.html) also drives one. NY reporter Chuck Scarborough even flew out to do a story on them. And what’s it all about anyway? The future, my dear! The California Cars Initiative http://www.calcars.org. And while you’re at it, check out these sites as well.
CalCars-PHEV Newsletter http://groups.yahoo.com/group/calcars-news
Power, Plugs and People Blog http://www.hybridcars.com/blogs/power/
PRIUS+ PHEV Conversion Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/priusplus/

Chick lit, meets trick lit

That’s what “Time Out” magazine said about Tracy Quan’s new book “Diary of a Married Call Girl: A Nancy Chan Novel.” And I got to hear for myself “straight from the (w)horses mouth,” so to speak. Ahem. Ms. Quan was demure and bookish as she read passages from her newest book on October 26th at Rocky Sullivan’s on Lexington Avenue. Her first one, “Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl,” has been translated into more than six foreign languages! Well, you know what they say, “sex sells.” And boy does it! I bought two copies that night after hearing the steamy snippets she carefully doled out to us. She’s actually pretty good at tantalizing people...getting us to beg for more...hmmm....makes one wonder.

I’d innocently (“oh, yeah...I know this woman...yeah, she’s having this book reading...”) invited my friend, Bobby Spillane (http://movies.aol.com/celebrity/main.adp?sid=344223), a writer, actor and producer, to come along. We sat next to each other on little black leather stools, staring straight ahead as Tracy nonchalantly began reading about erections, spiked heels, manacles and dominatrix scenarios. I had second thoughts whether this was the best thing to do for only our second time hanging out.

Tracy continued, “As I hooked a smooth black garter belt around my waist, I felt like a superhero sprouting magical powers. In my high-heeled slingbacks and push-up bra, I was suddenly sleek yet curvy and my suit had not wrinkled: the finishing touch. I loosened my ponytail and played with my hair, stuffed my clothes into the tote, and hid my wedding ring in a change purse...

... Trisha's weekend regular was put out by my solo arrival but did his best to couch things in submissive terms. "Thank you for coming, Mistress." He paused and looked around....Colin was wearing gold-rimmed glasses, silk boxer shorts, and nothing else. Despite a round, childlike face, he looked rather virile. It was that salt-and-pepper chest hair, much thicker than the hair on his head. I could feel steam from the shower seeping out of the bathroom. "Of course," I said sharply. "Thalia is definitely on her way." "May I offer you a drink, Mistress . . . ?" "Sabrina," I reminded him. "You may." I nodded at a row of bottles on the dresser. Five bottles of mineral water! This guy is more than prepared...I could hear my cell phone chiming in my pocket. "Mistress Thalia" stuck in traffic, no doubt. "It's me! I've been trying to get some privacy so I can call. What a disaster! You're gonna kill me! Let me talk to him, then I'll talk to you." What? Why didn't she talk to me first? I was doing my best to look imperious while feeling somewhat unnerved when I summoned Colin to the phone. "Yes. Yes, I will," I heard him saying in that flat monotone that slaves like to use. "Yes, Mistress. Of course, Mistress. No, I promise. One moment, Mistress. Right away." Slinking off to the bathroom, he looked both dejected and turned on. Trisha was apologetic and panicky. "I told him to wait in the bathroom. My daughter's playdate was canceled! At the very last minute! Do you have a ball gag?" "Um, no." "You'll have to improvise. Put some of your underwear in his mouth. Okay? Later on. Don't do it right away."

When Tracy finished she entertained questions from guests like Guy Gonzales, who was recently featured in “Time Out” magazine’s Porn issue. Having about all the titillation I could handle on a weeknight, Bobby and I made a hasty retreat. As I unraveled my big heavy steel chain from a pole and prepared to...ride my bike home...Bobby and I chatted about the discourse of the evening. I agreed with him when he commented, “erotica’s fine...just in the right place.”

Publisher's Note ~ October 28, 2005

Greetings My Ghouley Ghostly Ghastlies! Here is an especially spooky edition. Well, not really--you know I can’t be spooky even if I tried! No, it’s still sunny ol’ me bearing good tidings of wholesome, hearty events. Alright, it isn’t scary, but there is some sex smattered between some glorious bits--so beware and behave!

Monday, October 24, 2005

BREATHE*STRONG* and long, and proud

Asthma is a problem in cities and the country alike. But what would you do if your lungs didn’t work efficiently ever--at all! Six degrees of separation is at work again, as I tell you the story of Scott Roth, who is Kim Buchheit’s brother. I met Kim, as you may recall, through Tery Spataro on our Canyon Adventures in April 2005.

Kim's brother Scott has Cystic Fibrosis and had a miracle double lung transplant. Now, Kim and Mike put together an amazing program to help Scott out with all those incredible medical bills. Yes, the wristband phenomenon is going strong -- but purchases of the BREATHESTRONG wristband is one that is really, truly is going to directly benefit the beneficiary. Please, if you do anything this week, check out their sites and purchase a wristband. Love makes the world go ‘round and you’ll be helping out your Karma Bank too!

BREATHE*STRONG* Wristbands -- The BREATHE*STRONG* fundraising campaign is our family’s effort to help Scott and his family manage this financial burden and get their lives back to normal. 100% of the proceeds go directly to Scott and his family.

These exclusive BREATHE*STRONG* wristbands are now *available online*
at http://www.grandcanyonprints.com/pages/wristbands.htm for *$3.00 each*, and available directly from a seller for just $2.00 each!!
(Note: The higher online cost is due to Paypal processing fees and
shipping costs.)

Scott’s wife Sally's web site -- http://www.caringbridge.org/cb/inputSiteName.do?method=search&siteName=scottroth

The Business and Romance of Quebec and Montreal ~ by Tamar Alexia Fleishman

Are you tired of the same old destinations for business travel? Some cities are so played out, you don't feel special for having taken yourself and your company away from the office. If you want to feel like you've been to an exotic locale, but like the convenience of a short flight or even train/car options, then head up to Quebec Province in Canada. I recently explored two very different jewels in their crown: Quebec City (or, "Vielle Quebec") and Montreal.

My trip began out of BWI airport on Air Canada Jazz. The service was very friendly - not phony. The people of Quebec speak French, but do learn English in school; people in the hospitality industry and retail tend to be fluent in both. After arriving in Quebec, I took a short cab ride to the fabled Chateau Frontenac. The Chateau Frontenac is the most visible symbol of Quebec; it is the castle-like hotel built over a hundred years ago by the Canadian Pacific railroad. It overlooks the grand St. Lawrence River. The railroad still owns the hotel to this day, but administration duties are handled by the luxury hotel chain, Fairmont.

The Chateau Frontenac prides itself on having royal service for its guests and is very hospitable to the business traveler. At the Chateau Frontenac, some rooms have dial-up service for the Internet, some high speed, so ask when you make reservations. If you aren't a member of the hotel's Gold Club, Internet use is $13.95 CD. You do get a 24-hour help line with your rental, which I used. The service was excellent. There is wireless access in public areas of the hotel, such as the lobby and in the lounges. If you didn't bring your laptop (or your secretary), the hotel has a business center in the lobby that's open during the day.

For relaxation, the hotel has an indoor pool, complete with hot tub and many chaise lounges. During warmer weather, there's a sun deck to catch some rays.

While the Chateau Frontenac has four restaurants to suit all your dining desires, Le Champlain is one of the most famous restaurants in the world. From the moment you walk in, you know that your dinner will be a special event, not just a meal. The waiters are outfitted in French Renaissance costumes, a Three Musketeers effect. Chef Jean Soulard is in charge of things (his fabulous cookbook is for sale in the gift shop) and he is obsessed by having the best. That means he has his own rooftop garden at the hotel to grow his own herbs, edible flowers and specialty vegetables. He uses local ingredients in both modern and historic ways; lobster, venison and even caribou grace his menus regularly. The wine list includes some of the most venerated, most famous wines in the world.

Of course, outside the hotel are fabulous restaurants, as well. For a fascinating sampling of regional cuisine, you must try Aux Anciens Canadiens. It is housed in the oldest standing home in North America, serving cuisine that has been a favorite for centuries. This is the place to sample wild game, such as partridge, buffalo and caribou, as well as try local wines and beers. Dress is "dressy casual" and reservations are highly suggested. Another enjoyable place that has fine dining without a dress code is Le Continental. Le Continental is like a classic 1950's steak house, complete with salads, steaks and desserts that are prepared table-side. They have an extensive wine list. For late night repasts, I would suggest one of the many creperies that dot the city. If you're more in the mood for drinks, Pub Saint-Alexandre seems to be a favorite haunt of business people.

Through the Quebec Office of Tourism, I had a a fantastic tour guide. I never had a private tour guide before. If you are in town for business, your free time is even more precious -- a private guide becomes indispensable! My guide showed me places and things that I might not have seen on my own; pamphlets don't always do an attraction justice. I was able to learn all kinds of insider things about the city's history and visited off- the-beaten-track places such as Iles d'Orleans.

Quebec is a very athletic and outdoorsy city, regardless of the weather. Locals walk up and down the cliff the city is built upon, but there is a ski-lift type of transportation called the "Funiculaire". It'll set you back $1.50 CD per ride. You can score a free ride if you get a coupon book, called the "Passport", available at the tourist centers, that also includes museum passes and other great discounts.

If you have friends who are members of the Garrison Club, they can host you in one of the oldest private clubs in North America, which used to be the British Officers' Club.

Then, it was on to Montreal, via Rail Canada, First Class! This is the type of comfortable travel that my dad used to speak of, the kind that I assumed disappeared decades ago. You start your trip in the First Class lounge, where you can help yourself to some soft drinks, coffee or juice and there are plenty of copies of today's paper. When you do board the train, the seats are comparable to First Class airline recliners. Then, you are offered a complimentary cocktail and snacks right away.. "Bloody Ceasars," Bloody Marys with clam juice, are a popular local drink. For lunch, you will be offered a selection of upscale meals, along with wines. Relaxing! And, just like in the finest restaurants, you are offered a hot scented towel and chocolate truffles are passed after your meal. The picture windows give you a complete view of the countryside.

For a completely different feel, I stayed at the Hotel Place D'Armes in Old Montreal. A boutique hotel ensconced in what used to be the Scottish National Life Building, it is hip without being too hard-edged. The ceilings are high and many rooms have pillars and exposed brick. My room had a walk-in double headed shower, electric fireplace, sound system and many other special amenities. Some of these included Frette slippers, Swiss chocolates for turndown service and Essential Elements toiletries. Guests receive a coupon for a free glass of wine at Happy Hour. There was a fitness center right on my floor. The hotel's modern bar that is such a local hot spot at night becomes the breakfast center by light of day; it is quite extensive for a continental breakfast. Along with toast and bagels, there were all kinds of local Canadian cheeses, yogurt, fruit and juices. Many business people were filling up on a substantial morning repast before their workday. No doubt, many were taking advantage of the free shuttle service to the business center, that runs from 7 to 7 on weekdays.

The business center section of town features many buildings with underground tunnels, perfect for some of the fierce winters in that part of the world. I also got a chance to peek at the new W hotel, which is a popular hangout as well as place to lay your head at night.

Old Montreal is easily navigable, with art galleries, museums, restaurants and a mix of old and new architecture. There are also lots of street vendors and performers. I went to the river to check out the area that had been the site of the World's Fair Expo that put the city on the global awareness map.

In Montreal, I again had the luxury (or my new "necessity"?) of a private tour guide. Montreal has many different sections with different vibes, so this was a great way to get the total view, see how things are laid out and see things that I would not normally see. Montreal's natural beauty is stunning; going to the top of the actual mountain for which the city is named is a must. The city also has many ethnic neighborhoods laid out one after another, including a robust Chinatown. Get out your comfy walking shoes and explore. Another site that I was introduced to was the Jean-Talon Farmer's Market. If you are staying in Montreal for any kind of extended time, this is a MUST-SEE! There are rows upon rows of gorgeous fresh produce, meats and products from many cultures: French, Italian, Arabic, etc. The prices are good and you can easily fix yourself a fabulous repast in your hotel room/long term residence. It was so tempting to load up on baby artichokes, fresh figs and other goodies, but you can't bring fresh produce across the border into the U.S.

Another section that is popular is St. Catherine's Street, for some serious shopping. On that street and some of the side streets, you will enjoy a little break from the working grind with such world-famous stores as the Hudson Bay Company, Holt-Renfew and La Senza.

Asking around, I found out that a top restaurant in Montreal was right in my hotel! Aix Cuisine du Terroir prides itself on using local ingredients in a modern ways. It is a quiet, intimate place, perfect for couples or if your are traveling by yourself ... not many restaurants can boast this. As a starter, please try the memorable Fois Gras Terrine, with sun dried cherries. The service was impeccable; the server was able to give a clear description of the "gaminess" factor for each of the meats listed, such as venison, bison and caribou. With your meal or afterwards, enjoy a glass of cider glace', which is a local syrupy apple liqueur that goes so well with game.

For some late night fun, I took an inexpensive cab ride to the Casino de Montreal, located on an island. There is a doorman who opens your car door, for that VIP feeling. The casino is a full casino, with slots, baccarat, several kinds of poker, Keno etc. You can even watch horse races from Hong Kong! I understand that there are some topnotch restaurants on site, as well. The Montreal Casino is a place you can dress up or down and is perfect for night-owls. It's open 24 hours a day, with free parking, coat room and is handicapped-accessible

Special thanks to Air Canada; Genevieve Parent and the Chateau Frontenac; Yves Gentil, Bard Nordby and Bonjour Quebec/Ministere du Tourisme du Quebec; Richard Seguin from Quebec City Tourism and his great staff; Via Rail Canada; Hotel Place D'Armes; Tourisme Montreal and their lovely staff.

Legal Eagle David Leffler's Entreprenerial Support

David Leffler of Leffler Marcus & McCaffrey LLC just became a member of the Financial Women's Association (www.fwa.org). It's an interesting organization which sponsors a lot of events, and their members tend to be interesting people. Another thing he’s working on does not involve women, per se, but New York lawyers. Ever the eventful and inventive man, he created a listserv discussion group for New York lawyers, which can be read at www.attorneyoasis.com. It's off to a nice start so you should all check it out! www.lefflerlawfirm.com

The Executive Life at the Greenbrier by Tamar Alexia Fleishman

If you are an executive or captain of industry, philanthropist or other high-profile person, you have either been to the Greenbrier or dreamed of going to the Greenbrier. White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia's posh resort has hosted everyone from CEO's to Presidents to kings. Today's busy leader often has to combine R & R with real work. So, what does the Greenbrier offer for the harried exec? As it turns out, plenty.

_Spa_ - For over 200 years, people have been flocking to White Sulphur Springs for the healing waters. These days, the Greenbrier runs a plush spa on site. Even before the exec's arrival, when appointments are being made, they will get information on your lifestyle, to set up a program for you. Many executives combine their annual insurance medical exam at the on-site clinic with their spa visits. The Greenbrier knows that most of your prominent business people are familiar with spas and make a morning workout or run a top priority. But, there's more to executive relaxation than simply heading to a gym. The spa creates a special "breathe oil" to bring on the plane -- it enters the blood stream through the olfactory system and helps you to relax. Director of Spa Services Marie Baumuller has also created a clever deck of business cards with relaxation mantras on the back. That way, when you are at that boring meeting, you can thumb through them and still retain your professionalism!

The Greenbrier recommends for most executives a special muscle gel to use on your hands, to help with the aches associated with mouse-clicking. Other important treatments for the CEO are the mineral sulphur baths, which are naturally 84 - 86 degrees, but can be adjusted if you have circulatory problems.

Lots of companies flock to the Greenbrier for some R & R. Many companies have the spa create special aromatherapy diffusers to use in their meetings. The spa can organize private classes, such as yoga classes or hikes on the newly created Meditation Trail for groups of 12 to 550 employees. Corporations such as West Virginia Coal and PriceWaterhouse enjoy the Greenbrier's spa.

_Team Building in the Kitchen_ - A favorite corporate retreat activity at the Greenbrier is their Culinary team building program. They have a new director, Maria Battaglia, who spent many years as an executive at Kraft Foods. When people from work get involved in outside of their work environment for a special project, it fosters stronger relationships. The culinary school at the Greenbrier was located in the famed underground bunker, but that's under repair. In the meantime, colleagues create goodies at the "Howard's Creek" facility, a gorgeous lodge that has a Medieval feel. Different programs include making fresh pasta together, chili, the ins and outs of entertaining, barbecue and even custom team building. When people are cooking together, it levels the playing field of the coworkers in a casual, non-athletic way. That way, people of all ages and physical conditions can really develop during the retreat.

_Golf_ - If you ask a little kid to draw executives in their free time, that kid will probably sketch people playing golf. It may be cliché, but it's true. At the Greenbrier, their "Business Class" golf school is run by Golf Digest Schools. Whether your company is looking to reward its employees or customers, the world-renowned courses at the Greenbrier fit the bill.

Andrew Dawes, Director of Instruction can deal with the gamut when it comes to lessons. He can work with you whether you are a Type A personality that wants to challenge him, or you are the person who tugs his sleeve and begs, "Please teach me how to hold a club so I don't completely humiliate myself!!" While they used to administer a personality test to find out exactly how you learn, Andrew can size you up pretty well without the paperwork. After talking to you, he will know if you are an auditory or physical learner, for example. He says that in the IT world, the player will want to build up to the climax of a lesson with plenty of details, and does not like to be touched. A more standard CEO wants to come to the point of the lesson immediately.

The Greenbrier has individual lessons and packages that last for 3 days. If you take a 3 days package, Andrew says he can get you from absolute beginner to where you can go out on the course with your colleagues and have an equally good time. Many execs will do just that, right before their company arrives for a retreat.

By the way, with all the teaching tools and equipment out there, it's hard to know what to buy. Andrew says that if you are using your dad's clubs, you are missing out on the newest technology. He says it's especially important for women to use the latest equipment, because golf heads are now adjusted to give them more loft and they are lighter, too.

_Greenbrier Outfitters_ - While people know the Greenbrier for its luxurious amenities, they are still surprised to see the level of corporate expertise exhibited by owner Duane Zobrist. He has an MPA and is completing his Ph.D. in Work Theory. If you are coming with your company, the Outfitters will do an initial needs assessment to custom-create physical team building opportunities. They can do a one time event or even an ongoing service that involves them coming to your office to help with skills progress. Duane can create activities that run the gamut of a scavenger hunt (for the less physically inclined) to rock climbing, to crossing a river. The events can go from 2 to 8 hours, with groups of 8 to 200 participants.

When he says your company needs help, you'd better believe him! He's worked with the biggest corporations in the world, doing an average of 200 programs a year. He knows if you are only paying lip-service to build esprit de corps. He can spot the bullies or the passive-aggressive folks in your group and give you sound advice to fix things.

_Business Center_ - It's so hard to get away from work, isn't it? At the business center, you can get any kind of supplies you may have left behind, rent cell phones, laptops, pagers and even a secretary. They'll even help you re-create that visual aid that got busted on the plane!

For more information about the Greenbrier, please check out www.greenbrier.com. Many thanks to Lynn Swann, the Greenbrier's fabulous Director of Public Relations!

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

We Love Our Children

Saying something is one thing but doing it is another. We love our children, but what about our neighbors' children? Love Our Children USA is an organization that loves all children--and exists to spread the word on child abuse. By uncovering this nasty tragedy, and bringing it more into the light, Love Our Children USA hopes to help reduce the occurances of it. I met with Founder and CEO Ross Ellis, over lunch on July 21st, to learn more about the exciting developments they are making, but they always need help. Please check out their site and do what you can to support them!

Bankrate.com Celebrity Interview

Read about me in the Bankrate.com Celebrity Interview! ~ by our very own Tamar Alexia Fleishman

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

TasteNY's Tasty New York

NYC TV's newest creation, right off the grill (or griddle or oven or frying pan) is TasteNY. In a town like New York, where there are almost more restaurants than people, this show is sure to provide oodles of information on food, restaurants and all those other yummy topics that New Yorkers, and those who visit, will be sure to gobble up!

Monday, July 18, 2005

Stacy Horn's Restless Sleep

My admiration of Stacy Horn never ceases and once again she's bowled me over with the glittering goodness of sharing her recent book launch events with yours truly and others! The most recent was July 18th at Barnes and Noble, If you've ever had a "restless night," then The Restless Sleep is for you!

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

Cano Petroleum joins the Big Amex

Not all oil companies are owned by the few major corporations. Cano Petroleum, an independent business, has now joined the ranks of the big boys on the American Stock Exhange. Chairman and CEO Jeff Johnson, and his lovely family, were in town on July 12th, to share this momentous occasion while discussing their leading edge technologies employed in their secondary oil recovery efforts.

Saturday, July 02, 2005

Andrew Raisej for Public Advocate

Check out Andrew Raisej's site as he runs for Public Advocate ~ http://www.rasiej.com/donate


========================= UPCOMING EVENTS =========================
* New Media Netizen Andrew Raisej is running for office!  Vote for our next Public Advocate, who really understands Technology!  More info:
http://www.advocatesforrasiej.com/story.  Cocktails with Courtney will be promoting and supporting Andrew.  We hope you will too.

Friday, June 24, 2005

SHAKERS & STIRRERS / BITS & BYTES ~ 6/24/05


Great websites of the week (as mentioned on the WWWAC-list):

Publisher's Note ~ A Roman Quote

** Publisher's Note ~ Quote for the day: Hundreds of years ago, Roman philosopher Seneca said “The great blessings of mankind are within us and within our reach.”

Here's This Week's Line-up:
* NYSIA’s Keeping It Real for NYC
* Cocktails with Courtney ~ Silicon Alley Reunion Soiree
* Cyber Scene Spotlight ~ by Tamar Alexia Fleishman, Esq.
* Shakers & Stirrers / Bits & Bytes
* Upcoming Events
* Cocktails with Courtney – July 26th

Courtney Pulitzer's Cyber Scene® ~ June 24, 2005


** Publisher's Note ~ Quote for the day: Hundreds of years ago, Roman philosopher Seneca said “The great blessings of mankind are within us and within our reach.”

Here's This Week's Line-up:
* NYSIA’s Keeping It Real for NYC
* Cocktails with Courtney ~ Silicon Alley Reunion Soiree
* Cyber Scene Spotlight ~ by Tamar Alexia Fleishman, Esq.
* Shakers & Stirrers / Bits & Bytes
* Upcoming Events
* Cocktails with Courtney – July 26th

Shakers & Stirrers and Bits & Bytes

Great websites of the week (as mentioned on the WWWAC-list):
http://www.dontclick.it/
http://www.ukuleledisco.com/jake
http://tinyurl.com/cvbl9

ADV ~ Jobs For You

High profile, high paying, technical jobs can be found
through contacting
Mr. Matthew Cummings [mattc@designstrategy.com]
212-370-0000

Wednesday, June 22, 2005

CYBER SCENE SPOTLIGHT ~ Kentucky Colonels’ Reunion BBQ


by - Col. Tamar Alexia Fleishman

I was extremely honored last year when Gov. Paul Patton of Kentucky named me a Kentucky Colonel, Kentucky’s highest honor. The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels is a philanthropic organization dedicated to aiding the welfare of Kentucky’s citizens. Aside from being a huge fan of all things Kentuckian, I am the agent for Night Train, the famous Southern Rock band from Mossy Jaw, Kentucky.

Most people think about Col. Sanders when they hear about Colonels, and yes, he was made a Kentucky Colonel for bringing acclaim to the Commonwealth with his famous chicken. Though Gov. Isaac Shelby declared his trusted Militia guards to be "Kentucky Colonels" back in 1813, the nonprofit group was founded in 1931. Some of the charities that have benefited from the Kentucky Colonels this year are the American Heart Association of Central Kentucky, Bellewood Presbyterian Home for Children, the Bardstown Community Theater and Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Bluegrass.

Kentucky Colonels reside all over the world, so each year, on the day after the Kentucky Derby, we hold a reunion barbeque. In years past, the party was held at Wickland (Governor’s Mansion to 3 Governors), in Bardstown, KY. This year, it was held on the grounds of the St. Joseph’s Childrens’ Home in Louisville. Now, a minor controversy arose, because some of the Colonels want everything back in Bardstown. The charming town of Bardstown is in Nelson Co., where much of America’s bourbon is made and many of its fine racehorses are born. Indeed, it is the site of Federal Hill, the plantation that inspired Stephen Foster’s "My Old Kentucky Home". My guess is the barbeque will return to Bardstown someday, but I’m just a fledgling Colonel -- it’s not for me to say!

If you ever get to attend the Colonels’ barbeque, the dress is casually elegant. Most of the women (and men) wear fancy hats. Don’t wear heels, as I did, because they’ll just get lodged in the mud and you’ll end up stripping off your stockings behind a tree and running around barefooted. Our weather was in the upper 80’s and very sunny. With the warm outdoors, the first stop I made was to the mint julep tent. Ah, the famous drink of the Derby and a favorite cocktail of Colonels! I’ve had my fair share of mint julips before, and nobody, but NOBODY makes ‘em as good as the ones at Barbeque. The secret, I think, is having a big, tall glass of crushed ice, with plenty of fresh mint, simple sugar syrup and quality bourbon. Really, think of the proper julep as being a chunkier version of a bourbon snow cone -- now that’s refreshing!

Here’s an interesting point about the cocktail tent: they carried many brands of bourbon. You don’t see that at many catered functions! I strongly suspect the reason is, the different companies are still run by some of the old Kentucky families, and they all count many Colonels amongst their corporate officers. So that nobody’s feelings get hurt, each are represented at Barbeque. Thus, there was a choice of Jim Beam, Evan Williams, Makers Mark, Woodford Reserve and Heaven Hill.

Along with cocktails, you can’t forget the tasty food! First, I sampled Kentucky Burgoo. Since you’re probably wondering, Kentucky Burgoo is a traditional stew, now made with lamb, pork, chicken and sometimes beef. It has a tomato and spice base, with little vegetables thrown in. During Daniel Boone’s time (the founder of Kentucky), it most likely contained squirrel, venison, wild turkey and anything else he could lay his hands on. It’s supposed to be "gamy" and lamb definitely gives it that quality.

Then, I sampled the barbeque. The pulled pork or chicken sandwiches were topped with "Mark’s Feed Store BBQ Sauce", made in Middletown, KY. The Original sauce is thinner and more orange, while Tomato sauce came later, as a result of customers’ demands. The Tomato sauce is thicker with honey. Side dishes included green beans with bacon and homemade potato salad. If you’re going to make potato salad "Kentucky-style", you’ll use little new red potatoes, big chunks of hard-boiled eggs, poppy seeds, fresh chives, green onions and mayo. Dessert was homemade buttermilk pie, which is sort of a cross between pecan pie minus the nuts and a sugar cookie. Of course, I washed everything down with that favorite quencher of the South, sweet tea.

Besides eatin’ and drinkin’, there’s lots to do at the Colonels’ Barbeque. I met a delightful Colonel involved in the thoroughbred industry and the Robb Report, Robbie Switzer. He introduced me to many re-enactors of famous historical people that he knew. So, introductions went thusly: "This is George Rogers Clark, or also, Mel." Other re-enactors included Daniel Boone, "Grandpa" Jones (do you remember Hee-Haw?) and Colonel Sanders. We also listened to the live 50’s music of the Monarchs and bluegrass stylings of Kentucky Blue. The Emporium is where you do your souvenir shopping . . .but you’ll want to go early. They ran out of t-shirts in my size (which is a Top State Secret). I did get the special pin commemorating the Barbeque; it’s a point of pride for Colonels to wear all the pins of all the Barbeques they’ve attended over the years.

The Colonels’ Barbeque is one of the most famous parties of the South: if you ever have the chance to go as a Colonel or Colonel’s guest, I hope to see y’all there.