Labor Day is celebrated in the United States on the first Monday in September. This year it will fall on Monday the 4th. Those of us expats living in Budapest as well as friends, family and colleagues are welcome to put on their summer whites one last time this season and come out to raise a glass with us.

We were generously welcomed by a new establishment just off Jokai Ter - The Kaledonia, Mozsar u. 9. We will begin gathering around 6:30 p.m. and go until...........OK, so for me that usually means around 8 p.m., but as always you are welcome to stay as long as you would like.

When I said 'new establishment' I was not kidding. This place is so new that we can't even say what there will be available on the menu, but I was promised that there will be something, even if it will be a choice of cold snacks. No RSVP needed for this event.

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As far as I know, there will be 5 of us going to Rome in February. If there are others of you, make yourselves known and congratulations.

Those of you who snoozed and didn't reserve in time, lost out this time. There will be other offers and we can certainly try again.

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Next Saturday, September 9, 2006 - I've decided to finally take action and go for a day trip to Lake Balaton by train. Destination will be Balatonfured, where there is a lovely shore with lots to see and do, a possibility to take a boat ride on the lake, eat drink and be merry - until it is time to come home.

Train leaves Budapest Deli. p.u.

at 7:05 a.m. arriving in Balatonfured at 9:51 a.m. leaving plenty of time for frolic. First class tickets are 2,312 HUF, Second class 1,542HUF ONE WAY. Please note that prices of just about everything went up as of Sept. 1, so don't be surprised if they just forgot to change the website.

Choices for the return are:

Leaving Balatonfured at 17:50 arriving in Bp at 20:33 OR leaving Balatonfured at 19:39, arriving at 21:58.

I would recommend purchasing your tickets in advance so we could simply head for the tracks* on the morning of the 9th. Best place to meet would be by the track* at 6:45 a.m......or sooner. If you've been on the Esztergom trip you would understand :)

*When you arrive to the Deli station on the morning of the trip, check the departure board to find which track.

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September 12 - BOWLING

September 16 - Hike in the Buda Hills and a Ride on the Children's Railroad

September 19 -
Photography Tips from an Expert, Stephen Spinder. If you were with us at the Iguana, you've met him.  If you have not, come and hear what makes a difference between a good and a great photograph; what makes a photo a piece of art.

September 26 - Make Up and Image Consultant Lyn de Gara will tell us how to improve our image by simple steps or experience a complete remake. Men and women are welcome.