Join me as I host the 13th Annual Bank of America Wine and Culinary Celebration
April 11, 2008
The 13th Annual Bank of America Wine and Culinary Celebration will take place at the Museum of Discovery and Science on April 11, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. The event will feature a progressive sequence of wine and food pairings, each bound to delight, educate and entertain guests. Over 30 of South Florida’s top restaurants and chefs will be represented, as well as wines from wineries around the world, courtesy of Southern Wine and Spirits.
The event will also showcase a silent auction. VIP admission at 6 p.m. is $150 and includes a VIP martini reception, wine tasting seminars, plus VIP access to the Grand Tasting. General admission at 7:30 p.m. is $85. To purchase tickets or for more information, please call 954.713.0954. To purchase tickets on-line, please visit www.mods.org.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Your best job
What was your favorite summer job when you were a kid?
I loved working at the snack bar in the roller skating rink in Springfield, Missouri. "Hot dog and a coke? No problem"
Jeff Martin was a magician. I'll bet there was a lot of hocus pocus from Mr. Potter.
I loved working at the snack bar in the roller skating rink in Springfield, Missouri. "Hot dog and a coke? No problem"
Jeff Martin was a magician. I'll bet there was a lot of hocus pocus from Mr. Potter.
New show for Oz
Oprah Winfrey's latest syndication project is the man dubbed by some as "America's Doctor."
According to Broadcasting and Cable, Winfrey's Harpo Productions is developing a show for Dr. Mehmet Oz, with a projected launch date of fall 2009. The format of the show is still undecided at this point. Dr. Oz, vice chair and professor of surgery at Columbia University and director of the Cardiovascular Institute at New York Presbyterian Hospital, is a regular guest on both Oprah's syndicated daytime TV show and her satellite radio show. The 47-year-old physician also hosts the Discovery Health program Second Opinion with Dr. Oz, and has co-written best-selling books like You: An Owner's Manual.
Harpo Productions has already created successful shows for Dr. Phil McGraw and Rachael Ray, with a Kirstie Alley-hosted program also in the works. In addition, Harpo and cable network Discovery Health are teaming to re-launch the latter as OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network in 2009.
According to Broadcasting and Cable, Winfrey's Harpo Productions is developing a show for Dr. Mehmet Oz, with a projected launch date of fall 2009. The format of the show is still undecided at this point. Dr. Oz, vice chair and professor of surgery at Columbia University and director of the Cardiovascular Institute at New York Presbyterian Hospital, is a regular guest on both Oprah's syndicated daytime TV show and her satellite radio show. The 47-year-old physician also hosts the Discovery Health program Second Opinion with Dr. Oz, and has co-written best-selling books like You: An Owner's Manual.
Harpo Productions has already created successful shows for Dr. Phil McGraw and Rachael Ray, with a Kirstie Alley-hosted program also in the works. In addition, Harpo and cable network Discovery Health are teaming to re-launch the latter as OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network in 2009.
Teens and jobs
Hey, teens, if you want to get a job this summer, you’d better start looking NOW!
A recent study by SnagaJob.com found that _half_ the hiring managers don’t have the budget to hire seasonal workers this year. 76% of those who _will_ hire seasonal workers, plan to fill the jobs by May.
With all the recent job cuts, more **adults** are applying for jobs that teens normally fill and they’re more likely to be hired. Companies see adults as being more responsible than teens, and know they won’t quit when school starts. So, how can _you_ land a summer job?
Here are a few job-hunting tips, courtesy of MSNBC:
* First, try job boards that specialize in summer work for teens.
Like TeenJobSection.com, JobDoggy.com, and GrooveJob.com.
* Another job hunting tip: Spend most of your time networking. Why?
Because 90% of job openings are never advertised. So, let everyone
know you’re looking for a job. Including your teachers, adult
friends of the family, and the parents of your friends. Don’t
forget to inform your contacts on sites like FaceBook.
* Also, consider working in a resort town or national park. Fewer
foreign student visas are being issued, which means fewer foreign
workers will apply for seasonal jobs.
* Another job hunt tip: Dress for success. Even if you’re applying
at an amusement park where everyone wears shorts, wear business
attire to the interview.
* Keep a positive attitude. Most hiring manager say that enthusiasm
and a willingness to learn are the biggest factors in determining
who gets hired and who doesn’t.
A recent study by SnagaJob.com found that _half_ the hiring managers don’t have the budget to hire seasonal workers this year. 76% of those who _will_ hire seasonal workers, plan to fill the jobs by May.
With all the recent job cuts, more **adults** are applying for jobs that teens normally fill and they’re more likely to be hired. Companies see adults as being more responsible than teens, and know they won’t quit when school starts. So, how can _you_ land a summer job?
Here are a few job-hunting tips, courtesy of MSNBC:
* First, try job boards that specialize in summer work for teens.
Like TeenJobSection.com, JobDoggy.com, and GrooveJob.com.
* Another job hunting tip: Spend most of your time networking. Why?
Because 90% of job openings are never advertised. So, let everyone
know you’re looking for a job. Including your teachers, adult
friends of the family, and the parents of your friends. Don’t
forget to inform your contacts on sites like FaceBook.
* Also, consider working in a resort town or national park. Fewer
foreign student visas are being issued, which means fewer foreign
workers will apply for seasonal jobs.
* Another job hunt tip: Dress for success. Even if you’re applying
at an amusement park where everyone wears shorts, wear business
attire to the interview.
* Keep a positive attitude. Most hiring manager say that enthusiasm
and a willingness to learn are the biggest factors in determining
who gets hired and who doesn’t.
Know these numbers
Here are some great numbers to remember, when it comes to your health!
The first health number: **2. **That’s the number of shot glasses’ worth of sunscreen you should slather on before heading outside. So says dermatologist Dr. Perry Robins. Studies show that repeated burns put you at serious risk for skin cancer, so you’ve gotta protect yourself! Also, wait //at least//30 minutes after applying your sunscreen before you go outside, to allow the active ingredients time to absorb into your skin.
Keeping with our "2" theme, don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen every
**2 hours**.
The next health number: **70. **As in, 70 degrees is the perfect bedroom temperature for getting maximum sleep. Why 70 degrees?Well, in order to trigger the production of sleep-inducing brain chemicals, your core body temperature needs to drop slightly at night. It usually drops by at least a degree from the temperature it is during waking hours. If your bedroom is too warm, you’ll keep waking up because your body will think it’s morning. So the Yale Center for Sleep Medicine says no matter what time of year it is, your bedroom should stay at the same temperature to ensure a restful night – and the ideal temperature is 70 degrees.
And one more health number: **500. **That’s the number of calories you’ll need to burn each day in order to lose **one pound **in a week.
Think trimming 500 calories a day is going to be too hard? Then know
this: If you take your dog for a 15-minute walk in the morning, skip your can of soda at lunch, and play 30 minutes of basketball with your buddies when you get home, you’re pretty much there.
The first health number: **2. **That’s the number of shot glasses’ worth of sunscreen you should slather on before heading outside. So says dermatologist Dr. Perry Robins. Studies show that repeated burns put you at serious risk for skin cancer, so you’ve gotta protect yourself! Also, wait //at least//30 minutes after applying your sunscreen before you go outside, to allow the active ingredients time to absorb into your skin.
Keeping with our "2" theme, don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen every
**2 hours**.
The next health number: **70. **As in, 70 degrees is the perfect bedroom temperature for getting maximum sleep. Why 70 degrees?Well, in order to trigger the production of sleep-inducing brain chemicals, your core body temperature needs to drop slightly at night. It usually drops by at least a degree from the temperature it is during waking hours. If your bedroom is too warm, you’ll keep waking up because your body will think it’s morning. So the Yale Center for Sleep Medicine says no matter what time of year it is, your bedroom should stay at the same temperature to ensure a restful night – and the ideal temperature is 70 degrees.
And one more health number: **500. **That’s the number of calories you’ll need to burn each day in order to lose **one pound **in a week.
Think trimming 500 calories a day is going to be too hard? Then know
this: If you take your dog for a 15-minute walk in the morning, skip your can of soda at lunch, and play 30 minutes of basketball with your buddies when you get home, you’re pretty much there.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Survive the dump
TIMELINE: HOW TO DEAL WITH BEING DUMPED
(Match.com)
One minute post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Violent tantrums, bursting into tears, acting dazed.
A better way to deal: Focus on yourself, notice your breathing, and attempt to slow things down in your body. Once you're calm, extract yourself from your now ex (ouch) so you can be alone -- or with friends -- to process the info.
One hour post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Trying to make yourself feel better -- eating three pints of Ben & Jerry's, drowning your sorrows in bourbon, going on a shopping spree, or calling your ex very late at night to make that "one last" point.
A better way to deal: Doing things to soothe your spirit is healthy, as long as you don't pick something that will make you feel worse afterwards. Positive choices include talking to a close friend who will just listen or going to the gym. The endorphins you get after a workout (or even a long walk) can help counterbalance waves of sadness.
One day post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Being impulsive! You feel the sudden urge to call an ex, ask out 50 people online, get a tattoo, or cut off all your hair.
A better way to deal: Recognize the tendency to do something impulsive, but don't act on it. No one likes to be rejected, but getting a Mohawk isn't going to help.
Three days post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Crawling in a hole, never leaving your bed, listening to "your song" on repeat.
A better way to deal: Focus on getting rest, eating well and taking care of yourself, because you've had part of you ripped out of your life. Sticking to a routine that helps you stay occupied is smart.
One week post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Dialing your ex, logging into his or her email, obsessively checking your phone for messages, looking to see if his/her profile is reposted online.
A better way to deal: Resist picking apart all the reasons your ex gave you for the breakup and thinking you can work your way back into his or her life if you just change that one little thing. It really helps to say, 'I'm going to grow from this no matter what.'
Two weeks post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Clinging to reminders of what it was like to be a couple, reminiscing about the bliss of being in a relationship, thinking you'll never love again.
A better way to deal: This is the time to start clearing out "ex" reminders. Put photos away, delete your emails, rearrange your bedroom so you don't relive memories when you look at things, etc.
One month post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Trying to forget that this misery-making person was ever in your life. Who needs 'em?
A better way to deal: Before you forget about your ex entirely, take a little time (now that you have some distance) to think more about him or her. Not to win him or her back, but to make some sense of the relationship and avoid repeating its mistakes.
(Match.com)
One minute post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Violent tantrums, bursting into tears, acting dazed.
A better way to deal: Focus on yourself, notice your breathing, and attempt to slow things down in your body. Once you're calm, extract yourself from your now ex (ouch) so you can be alone -- or with friends -- to process the info.
One hour post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Trying to make yourself feel better -- eating three pints of Ben & Jerry's, drowning your sorrows in bourbon, going on a shopping spree, or calling your ex very late at night to make that "one last" point.
A better way to deal: Doing things to soothe your spirit is healthy, as long as you don't pick something that will make you feel worse afterwards. Positive choices include talking to a close friend who will just listen or going to the gym. The endorphins you get after a workout (or even a long walk) can help counterbalance waves of sadness.
One day post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Being impulsive! You feel the sudden urge to call an ex, ask out 50 people online, get a tattoo, or cut off all your hair.
A better way to deal: Recognize the tendency to do something impulsive, but don't act on it. No one likes to be rejected, but getting a Mohawk isn't going to help.
Three days post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Crawling in a hole, never leaving your bed, listening to "your song" on repeat.
A better way to deal: Focus on getting rest, eating well and taking care of yourself, because you've had part of you ripped out of your life. Sticking to a routine that helps you stay occupied is smart.
One week post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Dialing your ex, logging into his or her email, obsessively checking your phone for messages, looking to see if his/her profile is reposted online.
A better way to deal: Resist picking apart all the reasons your ex gave you for the breakup and thinking you can work your way back into his or her life if you just change that one little thing. It really helps to say, 'I'm going to grow from this no matter what.'
Two weeks post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Clinging to reminders of what it was like to be a couple, reminiscing about the bliss of being in a relationship, thinking you'll never love again.
A better way to deal: This is the time to start clearing out "ex" reminders. Put photos away, delete your emails, rearrange your bedroom so you don't relive memories when you look at things, etc.
One month post-breakup
What you'll feel like doing: Trying to forget that this misery-making person was ever in your life. Who needs 'em?
A better way to deal: Before you forget about your ex entirely, take a little time (now that you have some distance) to think more about him or her. Not to win him or her back, but to make some sense of the relationship and avoid repeating its mistakes.
The cost of tears
THE HIGH COST OF CRYING AT WORK
(Women's Health)
You get... Kleenex, Visine, and makeup remover Because... You'll need these products to mop up the water show you just put on. You pay... $15
You get... No promotion Because... If stress caused your tears, the boss may not think you can handle more responsibility. Forget the 10 percent raise. You pay... $6,716
You get... A trip to the cardiologist Because... Built-up emotional stress can result in higher blood pressure and cholesterol, which ups your risk of heart disease. You pay... $60
You get... Cell phone bill Because... Minutes of sobbing to your boyfriend, mother, and best friend from the parking lot will add up. Darn those peak hours. You pay... $100
You get... i-Tunes Because... Just in case another crying bout strikes, you'll need something to muffle the sobs coming from your office. You pay... $50
You get... Cardio Kickboxing Class Because... Punching and kicking will help you take out your frustrations and put you back in control. You pay... $18
You get... One-year gold membership to vault.com Because... After losing out on a big promotion, the best job advice may be to get a new one. You pay... $72
TOTAL: $7,031
(Women's Health)
You get... Kleenex, Visine, and makeup remover Because... You'll need these products to mop up the water show you just put on. You pay... $15
You get... No promotion Because... If stress caused your tears, the boss may not think you can handle more responsibility. Forget the 10 percent raise. You pay... $6,716
You get... A trip to the cardiologist Because... Built-up emotional stress can result in higher blood pressure and cholesterol, which ups your risk of heart disease. You pay... $60
You get... Cell phone bill Because... Minutes of sobbing to your boyfriend, mother, and best friend from the parking lot will add up. Darn those peak hours. You pay... $100
You get... i-Tunes Because... Just in case another crying bout strikes, you'll need something to muffle the sobs coming from your office. You pay... $50
You get... Cardio Kickboxing Class Because... Punching and kicking will help you take out your frustrations and put you back in control. You pay... $18
You get... One-year gold membership to vault.com Because... After losing out on a big promotion, the best job advice may be to get a new one. You pay... $72
TOTAL: $7,031
Primary colors and more
The Crayola 64 Box is turning the big 5-0 and Crayola is changing things up. Wild Watermelon is
now Awesome. That’s just one of the name changes of eight colors in the Crayola 64 box that was
announced yesterday at the Toys R Us in Times Square in New York City. More than 20,000 kids
picked the names in an online poll. The old names followed by the new names:
Laser Lemon – Super Happy
Turquoise Blue – Happy Ever After
Wild Tangerine – Fun In The Sun
Hot Magenta – Famous
Screamin’ Green – Giving Tree
Orchid – Best Friends
Beaver – Bear Hug
Wild Watermelon – Awesome
Some Crayola 64 Box fun facts:
· The Crayola 64 Box made its debut in 1958 on the “Captain Kangaroo Show.”
· More than 200 million Crayola 64 Boxes have been sold over the last 50 years. The 12.8 billion
crayons inside would circle the earth 24 times.
· An original 64 Box was added to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in 1998,
the same year it was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame.· The most popular color inside the Crayola 64 Box is blue.
now Awesome. That’s just one of the name changes of eight colors in the Crayola 64 box that was
announced yesterday at the Toys R Us in Times Square in New York City. More than 20,000 kids
picked the names in an online poll. The old names followed by the new names:
Laser Lemon – Super Happy
Turquoise Blue – Happy Ever After
Wild Tangerine – Fun In The Sun
Hot Magenta – Famous
Screamin’ Green – Giving Tree
Orchid – Best Friends
Beaver – Bear Hug
Wild Watermelon – Awesome
Some Crayola 64 Box fun facts:
· The Crayola 64 Box made its debut in 1958 on the “Captain Kangaroo Show.”
· More than 200 million Crayola 64 Boxes have been sold over the last 50 years. The 12.8 billion
crayons inside would circle the earth 24 times.
· An original 64 Box was added to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in 1998,
the same year it was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame.· The most popular color inside the Crayola 64 Box is blue.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Save Starbucks
You know better than anyone else what you want from Starbucks. So tell them. What’s your Starbucks Idea? Revolutionary or simple—they want to hear it. Share your ideas, tell them what you think of other people’s ideas and join the discussion.
So pour yourself a cup of ...uh...coffee and check out the site.
So pour yourself a cup of ...uh...coffee and check out the site.
Is white okay
Before Queen Victoria set the trend with a white wedding gown in 1840, most brides wore their best dress—in any color—on their wedding day. In the years following Victoria ’s and Albert’s royal wedding, white came to symbolize purity—a tradition that prompted heated debate over whether encore brides could wear white.
In today’s fashion world, the answer is a resounding “yes”! Regarded as a symbol of joy instead of virginity; white is a perfect color for dresses for a second wedding. Pastels and ivory are also popular color choices for your second wedding dress.
In today’s fashion world, the answer is a resounding “yes”! Regarded as a symbol of joy instead of virginity; white is a perfect color for dresses for a second wedding. Pastels and ivory are also popular color choices for your second wedding dress.
Wedding again
Second Wedding Etiquette Advice and Help for Second Marriages
Not that long ago, popular thought dictated that second weddings should not be elaborate, formal or extravagant; rather, one should aim for smaller, quieter and more intimate. Today, however, more than 30 percent of today’s weddings are encore weddings and decidedly more commonplace. The focus is on celebrating two people who have found each other, discovering love again and embarking on a new beginning. In truth, celebrations can be as elaborate or as intimate as we desire, without fearing social stigma.
Not that long ago, popular thought dictated that second weddings should not be elaborate, formal or extravagant; rather, one should aim for smaller, quieter and more intimate. Today, however, more than 30 percent of today’s weddings are encore weddings and decidedly more commonplace. The focus is on celebrating two people who have found each other, discovering love again and embarking on a new beginning. In truth, celebrations can be as elaborate or as intimate as we desire, without fearing social stigma.
I do take 2
WED-nesday's focus is on "I do take 2"
Do you think you'll ever walk down the isle again?
Do you think you'll ever walk down the isle again?
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Prom and circumstance
How are today's high school prom's differnet than when you went to the dance?
Keep kids safe!
On prom night, you'll want your teen to have as much fun as possible. You'll also want them to be as safe as possible. From hiring a driver to having post-prom chaperones, these five ideas will keep your teen protected and help contain your worrying so that everyone can have a fun and relaxing prom night.
Hire an All-Night Chauffeur
Driving at all hours of the night can be dangerous, especially on prom night with an increased number of teen drivers. Keep your child protected by hiring a limo for the whole evening. Yes, it will be costly, but you can't put a price on safety -- have other parents chip in. This will ensure that your teen won't be out on the roads all night, there will be a more experienced driver on hand to deal with problems, and they'll have a safe ride home and to other locations. Another key factor is drinking and driving. We all hope our kids don't drink, but it's better to be on the safe side. Most limo companies have teens sign a contract that they won't drink or do drugs. The driver is in no way a babysitter or in charge of what your teen does; however, you can instruct the driver that he/she is only to drive them to certain places and to call if they get out of hand or appear to be drinking. Also, stress that your teen can call you anytime and anywhere if there's a problem -- no questions asked.
Assign a Young Adult as Chaperone
Having a parent chaperone the post-prom party can be a buzz kill for teens. Give them a little freedom while still keeping a close eye by eliciting an older, responsible young adult to tag along. Older brothers and sisters are a great start, or try a responsible relative -- the teens will trust them, and the chaperones will allow the teens to have the right amount of fun without crossing the line. Get the group together before prom to set all the ground rules and consequences for breaking them.
Sign Up for the Post-Prom Party
Post-prom parties hosted by schools are becoming bigger and better every year with rocking bands, giveaways, activities, games, and more. Teens come armed with pillows and sleeping bags, and the school provides a night of entertainment (with chaperones) followed by a big breakfast in the morning. If your teen signs up for the post-prom party but doesn't show up, parents are notified immediately. Once a teen is inside, they're not allowed to leave (unless a parent gives the chaperone permission).
Get to Know Their Friends
Friends are very important to teens, so it's crucial to get to know their pals and their date. Have them over to your house for a pre-prom party, movie night, or dinner -- you can even extend the invite to the parents. The more parents you have looking out for your teen, the better. If your son or daughter is hanging out with someone you don't approve of, talk about it with them and explain your concerns in a civil way. You may not be able to prevent them from hanging out together at prom, but you'll feel better once you set boundaries for your own teen.
Set Some Ground Rules
You may not want to think of yourself as being overprotective, but when it comes to prom, the more questions you ask, the less surprises you'll have to face. Before prom, make sure you talk to your son or daughter about drugs, alcohol, sex, and the consequences. Set check-in call times and get a copy of the itinerary for prom night so you know where they'll be at all times. It also doesn't hurt to team up with other parents to keep an eye on each other's teens, especially if they're attending a post-prom party at a friend's house.
Keep kids safe!
On prom night, you'll want your teen to have as much fun as possible. You'll also want them to be as safe as possible. From hiring a driver to having post-prom chaperones, these five ideas will keep your teen protected and help contain your worrying so that everyone can have a fun and relaxing prom night.
Hire an All-Night Chauffeur
Driving at all hours of the night can be dangerous, especially on prom night with an increased number of teen drivers. Keep your child protected by hiring a limo for the whole evening. Yes, it will be costly, but you can't put a price on safety -- have other parents chip in. This will ensure that your teen won't be out on the roads all night, there will be a more experienced driver on hand to deal with problems, and they'll have a safe ride home and to other locations. Another key factor is drinking and driving. We all hope our kids don't drink, but it's better to be on the safe side. Most limo companies have teens sign a contract that they won't drink or do drugs. The driver is in no way a babysitter or in charge of what your teen does; however, you can instruct the driver that he/she is only to drive them to certain places and to call if they get out of hand or appear to be drinking. Also, stress that your teen can call you anytime and anywhere if there's a problem -- no questions asked.
Assign a Young Adult as Chaperone
Having a parent chaperone the post-prom party can be a buzz kill for teens. Give them a little freedom while still keeping a close eye by eliciting an older, responsible young adult to tag along. Older brothers and sisters are a great start, or try a responsible relative -- the teens will trust them, and the chaperones will allow the teens to have the right amount of fun without crossing the line. Get the group together before prom to set all the ground rules and consequences for breaking them.
Sign Up for the Post-Prom Party
Post-prom parties hosted by schools are becoming bigger and better every year with rocking bands, giveaways, activities, games, and more. Teens come armed with pillows and sleeping bags, and the school provides a night of entertainment (with chaperones) followed by a big breakfast in the morning. If your teen signs up for the post-prom party but doesn't show up, parents are notified immediately. Once a teen is inside, they're not allowed to leave (unless a parent gives the chaperone permission).
Get to Know Their Friends
Friends are very important to teens, so it's crucial to get to know their pals and their date. Have them over to your house for a pre-prom party, movie night, or dinner -- you can even extend the invite to the parents. The more parents you have looking out for your teen, the better. If your son or daughter is hanging out with someone you don't approve of, talk about it with them and explain your concerns in a civil way. You may not be able to prevent them from hanging out together at prom, but you'll feel better once you set boundaries for your own teen.
Set Some Ground Rules
You may not want to think of yourself as being overprotective, but when it comes to prom, the more questions you ask, the less surprises you'll have to face. Before prom, make sure you talk to your son or daughter about drugs, alcohol, sex, and the consequences. Set check-in call times and get a copy of the itinerary for prom night so you know where they'll be at all times. It also doesn't hurt to team up with other parents to keep an eye on each other's teens, especially if they're attending a post-prom party at a friend's house.
Proms over the top
Today's Proms are More Like Practice Weddings
Gone are the days when a high school prom meant a home-made dress, a corsage, and a car borrowed from somebody’s dad. Today’s proms are more like practice weddings – multiple-event extravaganzas designed to spread the fun out as long as possible. According to USA Today, the average couple spends about $1-thousand bucks on the prom. And the hair, clothes, and spray tans are just the beginning.
There are also pre-dance parades, and steak “rehearsal” dinners the night before. As well as fancy rides, like a horse and carriage, limousine, or even a helicopter. Then, students strut their stuff down an Oscar-worthy red carpet before a cheering, picture-taking audience that includes friends, neighbors and parents. Then, after the band has packed up and gone, there’s after-hours entertainment, like hypnotists, lounge acts, and celebrity impersonators. Followed by “after-after” parties, like all-night bowling, followed by an after-prom breakfast. And most of the time, local businesses sponsor the after-parties. Why? To keep kids out of trouble. They figure if every kid’s invited to all the “cool parties,” they’ll be less likely to throw their own rowdy, hotel-suite soirees. Here are a few prom-related events from around the country:
In Palmyra, New Jersey, students attended a free roller skating and soccer party until 4:00 a.m., before heading home with prizes.
At Big Horn High School in Wyoming, students have a pre-prom “grand march”. Basically, a parade where students are presented to the town, along with biographical tidbits like whether they used teeth whitening strips to prepare for the party.
And in Gates Mill, Ohio, the planning for complicated after-prom celebrations starts at the beginning of the school year. A recent extravaganza included a dance at the Cleveland Browns Stadium, dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe, and prizes like TVs and tickets to Browns games.
Gone are the days when a high school prom meant a home-made dress, a corsage, and a car borrowed from somebody’s dad. Today’s proms are more like practice weddings – multiple-event extravaganzas designed to spread the fun out as long as possible. According to USA Today, the average couple spends about $1-thousand bucks on the prom. And the hair, clothes, and spray tans are just the beginning.
There are also pre-dance parades, and steak “rehearsal” dinners the night before. As well as fancy rides, like a horse and carriage, limousine, or even a helicopter. Then, students strut their stuff down an Oscar-worthy red carpet before a cheering, picture-taking audience that includes friends, neighbors and parents. Then, after the band has packed up and gone, there’s after-hours entertainment, like hypnotists, lounge acts, and celebrity impersonators. Followed by “after-after” parties, like all-night bowling, followed by an after-prom breakfast. And most of the time, local businesses sponsor the after-parties. Why? To keep kids out of trouble. They figure if every kid’s invited to all the “cool parties,” they’ll be less likely to throw their own rowdy, hotel-suite soirees. Here are a few prom-related events from around the country:
In Palmyra, New Jersey, students attended a free roller skating and soccer party until 4:00 a.m., before heading home with prizes.
At Big Horn High School in Wyoming, students have a pre-prom “grand march”. Basically, a parade where students are presented to the town, along with biographical tidbits like whether they used teeth whitening strips to prepare for the party.
And in Gates Mill, Ohio, the planning for complicated after-prom celebrations starts at the beginning of the school year. A recent extravaganza included a dance at the Cleveland Browns Stadium, dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe, and prizes like TVs and tickets to Browns games.
Alterna-prom
It's Prom Season
And all across North America, happy, well-dressed kids are spilling out of limos and buses on their way to an end-of-the-year dance. Of course, not every school sanctions proms – often because of safety concerns. During prom weekend in 2004, nearly half of the traffic deaths among 15 to 20-year-olds involved alcohol. So, groups have started offering alternatives called “Alterna-Proms.” That way kids can still kick up their heels and celebrate, but in a safer, more-controlled environment. Here are some recent end-of-the-year events we read about in Family Circle magazine:
The Senior-Senior Prom in Portland, Oregon. It brought together members of the senior class and elderly local citizens for a night of dancing, mutual understanding, and shattered stereotypes.
No Prom for Darfur. Kids in Cape Cod, Massachusetts used the money they would’ve spent on a prom – between $600 and $1,000 dollars per couple – and donated it to fight genocide in the Sudan in Africa. They had a 3 hour dance, and set up tables so students could write letters and sign anti-genocide petitions.
The Prim Prom in San Ramon, California. Put on by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, it promised modest attire, proper etiquette, music with clean lyrics and no suggestive “freak” dancing that’s becoming popular with kids.
In San Antonio, Texas, the Two Worlds Prom added Muslim culture to the school dance. Boys and girls partied in the same space but separately. Traditional foods were served. And at one point, the evening’s celebrations were halted for prayers.
Finally, one school held a traditional prom that was actually very different for them. For the first time in history, Turner County High School in Georgia had their first non-segregated, school-sponsored prom - instead of separate parties outside of school for black and white students, they all danced together at their own school in harmony.
And all across North America, happy, well-dressed kids are spilling out of limos and buses on their way to an end-of-the-year dance. Of course, not every school sanctions proms – often because of safety concerns. During prom weekend in 2004, nearly half of the traffic deaths among 15 to 20-year-olds involved alcohol. So, groups have started offering alternatives called “Alterna-Proms.” That way kids can still kick up their heels and celebrate, but in a safer, more-controlled environment. Here are some recent end-of-the-year events we read about in Family Circle magazine:
The Senior-Senior Prom in Portland, Oregon. It brought together members of the senior class and elderly local citizens for a night of dancing, mutual understanding, and shattered stereotypes.
No Prom for Darfur. Kids in Cape Cod, Massachusetts used the money they would’ve spent on a prom – between $600 and $1,000 dollars per couple – and donated it to fight genocide in the Sudan in Africa. They had a 3 hour dance, and set up tables so students could write letters and sign anti-genocide petitions.
The Prim Prom in San Ramon, California. Put on by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, it promised modest attire, proper etiquette, music with clean lyrics and no suggestive “freak” dancing that’s becoming popular with kids.
In San Antonio, Texas, the Two Worlds Prom added Muslim culture to the school dance. Boys and girls partied in the same space but separately. Traditional foods were served. And at one point, the evening’s celebrations were halted for prayers.
Finally, one school held a traditional prom that was actually very different for them. For the first time in history, Turner County High School in Georgia had their first non-segregated, school-sponsored prom - instead of separate parties outside of school for black and white students, they all danced together at their own school in harmony.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Jonesing for Jones
The new Indiana Jones movie doesn't open until Memorial weekend but if you're jonesing for Indy items now, you can order action figures, hats, statues and all kinds of other stuff. Indianajonesshop.com is open for business.
Put FUN in reFUNd
10 funny tips for spending your tax refund
More than half of Americans say they'll put their tax refunds into savings, and the rest say they'll pay off debt, do home improvements or give it to charity.
How Americans actually use their tax refunds -- shows this breakdown: 34% will spend it on "the newest model of iPod. Every year. Forever."
Another 20% will go for pay-per-view wrestling, 19% for Hannah Montana concert tickets, 9% for "personalized celebrity recording for answering machine," and it just gets worse from there.
What are some ways to use that refund that aren't so ridiculous? The funniest personal-finance blogger on the Internet has some advice for you.
We'll start with No. 10. "For the eternally single folks out there who, through no fault of their own (*cough* incredible unattractiveness *cough*), have not found the right person for them, I have just two words: Russian brides," he writes.
No. 9 is filling the pantry. "Cereal 10 for $10? Buy 100 boxes! Steak for $2 a pound? Buy the cow! You'll save money as well as time you won't have to spend looking for deals on those items for a while."
Improve your health is No. 6. "For example, if you sleep on a bed of straw, upgrade to a decent mattress," he advises.
No. 5 is getting some culture. "Grab yourself some tickets to a Broadway show, a symphony, or something else entertaining and sophisticated.
No. 1 is probably the best: "Save it anyway, dingus."
More than half of Americans say they'll put their tax refunds into savings, and the rest say they'll pay off debt, do home improvements or give it to charity.
How Americans actually use their tax refunds -- shows this breakdown: 34% will spend it on "the newest model of iPod. Every year. Forever."
Another 20% will go for pay-per-view wrestling, 19% for Hannah Montana concert tickets, 9% for "personalized celebrity recording for answering machine," and it just gets worse from there.
What are some ways to use that refund that aren't so ridiculous? The funniest personal-finance blogger on the Internet has some advice for you.
We'll start with No. 10. "For the eternally single folks out there who, through no fault of their own (*cough* incredible unattractiveness *cough*), have not found the right person for them, I have just two words: Russian brides," he writes.
No. 9 is filling the pantry. "Cereal 10 for $10? Buy 100 boxes! Steak for $2 a pound? Buy the cow! You'll save money as well as time you won't have to spend looking for deals on those items for a while."
Improve your health is No. 6. "For example, if you sleep on a bed of straw, upgrade to a decent mattress," he advises.
No. 5 is getting some culture. "Grab yourself some tickets to a Broadway show, a symphony, or something else entertaining and sophisticated.
No. 1 is probably the best: "Save it anyway, dingus."
Who's got the remote
Tech Battle Of The Sexes
Women are outracing men in adopting some technology, especially gadgets and services that offer scheduling convenience, according to a survey for Solutions Research Group. More women are streaming shows from TV network sites – 15% compared with 11% of men. Women also use their digital video recorders, like TiVo, more often than men, about 9.3 times a week vs . 8.3 times. DVRowning women with kids watch 56% of their TV after it has been recorded, vs. 42% for men.
Men still dominate many tech categories, including video downloading and console gaming. But about as many women as men are playing PC games, as well as networking socially and shopping online.
Women are outracing men in adopting some technology, especially gadgets and services that offer scheduling convenience, according to a survey for Solutions Research Group. More women are streaming shows from TV network sites – 15% compared with 11% of men. Women also use their digital video recorders, like TiVo, more often than men, about 9.3 times a week vs . 8.3 times. DVRowning women with kids watch 56% of their TV after it has been recorded, vs. 42% for men.
Men still dominate many tech categories, including video downloading and console gaming. But about as many women as men are playing PC games, as well as networking socially and shopping online.
The passing of a legend
President George W. Bush led tributes to Charlton Heston yesterday after the Hollywood icon died at his home in Beverly Hills on Saturday. He was 84. Heston revealed in 2002 he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Bush hailed Heston as “one of the most successful actors in movie history and a strong advocate for liberty.” In addition to appearing in many movies, including “The Ten Commandments,” Heston also ran the National Rifle Association.
What do you remember most about Charlton Heston?
What do you remember most about Charlton Heston?
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