5 Ways To Cut Your Wedding Guest List
By Lesley-Ann Graham
You've set your wedding budget and booked a reception venue that you can afford. But there's this one little problem: your guest list keeps growing! Your parents insist that you have to invite an old family friend; your co-workers ask if they can bring their boyfriends. And then there's the common etiquette dilemma of 'having' to invite an entire group of people (rather than the few members you really like) because they would be 'offended'.
Don't know what to do? Here are some ways to get your guest list (and the cost of your reception) back under control:
1. Divide your total head count into three: a third to the bride's parents, a third to the groom's parents, and a third to the bride and groom.
2. Trim friends you haven't seen in years. You won't have any chance to really talk during the wedding, anyway.
3. Don't invite co-workers unless they're really your friends (i.e., you go out with them regularly, and would probably be just as close even if any one of you changed jobs) Ask one person out of courtesy, and you'll have to ask all.
4. Discourage guests from bringing kids or dates. A tactful way of doing this is to print seating cards ("we have reserved __ seats for you at Table __") and insert them in the invitations.
5. Switch places. Ask yourself, "Would I be hurt if they didn't invite me to their wedding?" If the answer is no, cut them from your list.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Monday, June 2, 2008
Empty nest
Empty Nest: Wasn’t this the goal?
When children are young, we teach them to tie their own shoes, fix their own sandwiches, and eventually how to drive and do their own laundry. Parents spend time teaching their children in hopes they will be independent, productive young adults. And wasn’t this the goal? However, some parents have conflicting feelings when the kids begin to venture out on their own.
Mom’s feelings may include a sense of uselessness. She finds herself searching for what to do with the extra time that had been spent on chauffeuring, attending school functions, hosting slumber parties, and so on. Both parents may wrestle with feelings over loss of authority. Additionally, spouses might find they have little to talk about since their children have been the focus of conversations for so many years. But this is the point in time we raised them toward.
Empty Nest: How do we fill the void?
If parents are married, this time can be used to focus on each other. It can be an amazing time to renew the intimacy you once shared and concentrate on your relationship. You may be a single parent or perhaps you need a transition period. Either way, there are many ways to lessen the feelings of loss when the nest is emptied.
Establish date nights with your spouse or spend more time with friends.
Host an exchange student. It can be very gratifying to know you are helping a young person into a new experience.
Become involved in your church youth group or a volunteer position in your community. Youth are wonderful beings, full of life, energy, and most are willing to share it with adults who take an interest in them.
This is a great time to get more involved in your church. Many churches have groups of empty nesters just like you who get together for outings, sharing commonalities, and hobby groups.
Travel or renew hobbies.
When children are young, we teach them to tie their own shoes, fix their own sandwiches, and eventually how to drive and do their own laundry. Parents spend time teaching their children in hopes they will be independent, productive young adults. And wasn’t this the goal? However, some parents have conflicting feelings when the kids begin to venture out on their own.
Mom’s feelings may include a sense of uselessness. She finds herself searching for what to do with the extra time that had been spent on chauffeuring, attending school functions, hosting slumber parties, and so on. Both parents may wrestle with feelings over loss of authority. Additionally, spouses might find they have little to talk about since their children have been the focus of conversations for so many years. But this is the point in time we raised them toward.
Empty Nest: How do we fill the void?
If parents are married, this time can be used to focus on each other. It can be an amazing time to renew the intimacy you once shared and concentrate on your relationship. You may be a single parent or perhaps you need a transition period. Either way, there are many ways to lessen the feelings of loss when the nest is emptied.
Establish date nights with your spouse or spend more time with friends.
Host an exchange student. It can be very gratifying to know you are helping a young person into a new experience.
Become involved in your church youth group or a volunteer position in your community. Youth are wonderful beings, full of life, energy, and most are willing to share it with adults who take an interest in them.
This is a great time to get more involved in your church. Many churches have groups of empty nesters just like you who get together for outings, sharing commonalities, and hobby groups.
Travel or renew hobbies.
Grad stats
Survey: Parents Let Their Own Experiences Affect Drug and Alcohol Boundaries Set for Teens at Prom and Graduation Parties
Teens Say Prescription Drug Abuse Also May Be Part of the Festivities
A new survey from the Partnership for a Drug-Free America(R) and MetLife Foundation found that parents’ personal past experiences with alcohol and drugs at prom and graduation parties may influence the rules and limits they set for their teens during this time of the year.
According to the survey, parents who drank or used drugs at their own proms or graduations were likely to be more permissive with their kids than those parents who did not. Among parents who drank or used drugs on these occasions, 66 percent set a "zero tolerance policy" for their teens. Among parents who did not drink or use drugs, that number jumps up to 87 percent of parents who set hard rules about drinking and drugs for their kids. Parents who abused drugs or alcohol are also more likely to suspect that teens will use drugs or drink at prom or graduation parties – 51 percent versus just 36 percent of parents who didn't use drugs or alcohol.
The survey also indicates that when parents talk to kids about alcohol and drug abuse teens take their parents' messages to heart – only 16 percent of teens whose parents set a zero tolerance policy reported their individual likelihood of using drugs or alcohol, whereas 45 percent of teens whose parents didn't set such boundaries reported they were likely to drink or use drugs at prom or graduation parties this year.
Teens Say Prescription Drug Abuse Also May Be Part of the Festivities
A new survey from the Partnership for a Drug-Free America(R) and MetLife Foundation found that parents’ personal past experiences with alcohol and drugs at prom and graduation parties may influence the rules and limits they set for their teens during this time of the year.
According to the survey, parents who drank or used drugs at their own proms or graduations were likely to be more permissive with their kids than those parents who did not. Among parents who drank or used drugs on these occasions, 66 percent set a "zero tolerance policy" for their teens. Among parents who did not drink or use drugs, that number jumps up to 87 percent of parents who set hard rules about drinking and drugs for their kids. Parents who abused drugs or alcohol are also more likely to suspect that teens will use drugs or drink at prom or graduation parties – 51 percent versus just 36 percent of parents who didn't use drugs or alcohol.
The survey also indicates that when parents talk to kids about alcohol and drug abuse teens take their parents' messages to heart – only 16 percent of teens whose parents set a zero tolerance policy reported their individual likelihood of using drugs or alcohol, whereas 45 percent of teens whose parents didn't set such boundaries reported they were likely to drink or use drugs at prom or graduation parties this year.
Friday, May 30, 2008
First date ideas
Dinner, drinks, a movie... there's nothing wrong with the "standard package," but if you're considering an upgrade for your next first date, check out these creative, tried-and-tested ideas from other iVillagers, from bookstores to barn hunts.
1. One of my best first dates was a hike with the guy and his dog. It went so well that we got a coffee after the hike and then took his dog to the beach.
2. My favorite first date was at a dinner comedy theatre. My date and I had time to chat and get to know each other over dinner, and then the play (a British farce with plenty of sexual innuendo, mistaken identities, running around and door slamming) kept us laughing.
3. Try meeting at one of those pottery stores that let you come in and paint something and then return later for the finished project.
4. When it's a blind date, I'm partial to bookstores. You can meet at the coffee counter and then learn a lot about someone by the kind of books and magazines they read and the music they listen to.
5. Some of the best dates I've been on early in the relationship are "fun" dates: miniature golf, bowling or an amusement or theme park.
6. For first dates, I think you should do something active. That way, you have something to do so there's no pressure to talk, but there is plenty of opportunity. My boyfriend and I met for a drink at a local bar to see if we liked each other, and then we went kayaking a day or two later. It made conversation so much easier, and the day flew by!
7. In wintertime, skiing, ice skating, darts or driving around looking at the holiday lights can be good activities for a first date.
8. Go to the zoo! Or try an aquarium or an aviary. I'm also a fan of public gardens, weather and conditions permitting.
9. Rather than meeting for dinner, take a wine tour together or try a wine tasting or cooking class. That way there's something going on besides sitting across a table trying to think of something to say.
10. I think I'm the queen of unique dates! My first date with my boyfriend was spent riding around the countryside in his deuce and a half and stopping to look at some pickups for sale. We ended up digging through junk in his barn! Don't even ask about the dead dog! Okay, so we're different, but you can do something fun together that you both like to do or share an interest in.
1. One of my best first dates was a hike with the guy and his dog. It went so well that we got a coffee after the hike and then took his dog to the beach.
2. My favorite first date was at a dinner comedy theatre. My date and I had time to chat and get to know each other over dinner, and then the play (a British farce with plenty of sexual innuendo, mistaken identities, running around and door slamming) kept us laughing.
3. Try meeting at one of those pottery stores that let you come in and paint something and then return later for the finished project.
4. When it's a blind date, I'm partial to bookstores. You can meet at the coffee counter and then learn a lot about someone by the kind of books and magazines they read and the music they listen to.
5. Some of the best dates I've been on early in the relationship are "fun" dates: miniature golf, bowling or an amusement or theme park.
6. For first dates, I think you should do something active. That way, you have something to do so there's no pressure to talk, but there is plenty of opportunity. My boyfriend and I met for a drink at a local bar to see if we liked each other, and then we went kayaking a day or two later. It made conversation so much easier, and the day flew by!
7. In wintertime, skiing, ice skating, darts or driving around looking at the holiday lights can be good activities for a first date.
8. Go to the zoo! Or try an aquarium or an aviary. I'm also a fan of public gardens, weather and conditions permitting.
9. Rather than meeting for dinner, take a wine tour together or try a wine tasting or cooking class. That way there's something going on besides sitting across a table trying to think of something to say.
10. I think I'm the queen of unique dates! My first date with my boyfriend was spent riding around the countryside in his deuce and a half and stopping to look at some pickups for sale. We ended up digging through junk in his barn! Don't even ask about the dead dog! Okay, so we're different, but you can do something fun together that you both like to do or share an interest in.
One way to date
It's Just Lunch is a dating service for busy professionals.
It's Just Lunch! Boca Raton/Ft. Lauderdale is one of three offices in South Florida; other locations include Miami and West Palm Beach. They have been introducing busy professionals in the South Florida area for over seven years. Coordinating quality first dates over lunch, brunch or a quick drink after work. Their biggest reward is when they make a perfect match!
It's Just Lunch! Boca Raton/Ft. Lauderdale is one of three offices in South Florida; other locations include Miami and West Palm Beach. They have been introducing busy professionals in the South Florida area for over seven years. Coordinating quality first dates over lunch, brunch or a quick drink after work. Their biggest reward is when they make a perfect match!
Date facts
Dating Stats and Facts·
· 76% of Men:
Prefer brunettes over blondes.
· Wednesday:
The best day for a first date according to 41% of singles.
· 1 in 8:
The chance you have that a first date will call you for a second date after 24 hours have passed.
· 15 Minutes:
The time it takes for a man to determine whether or not he wants to see a woman again.
· Top Conversation Killers:
Past relationships—49%, dieting or body image—21%, politics—15% and marriage—15%
· 110 Million:
The number of single adults in the United States.
· Top cuisine choices for a first date:
46% Italian, 19% Steakhouse, 16% Japanese, 11% Mexican, 8% French
· 11:
The number of single friends the average 27 year old has.
· One Hour:
The time it takes for a woman to determine whether or not she wants to see a man again.
· Baseball games:
A great place to meet men says 74% of single women.
· 76% of Men:
Prefer brunettes over blondes.
· Wednesday:
The best day for a first date according to 41% of singles.
· 1 in 8:
The chance you have that a first date will call you for a second date after 24 hours have passed.
· 15 Minutes:
The time it takes for a man to determine whether or not he wants to see a woman again.
· Top Conversation Killers:
Past relationships—49%, dieting or body image—21%, politics—15% and marriage—15%
· 110 Million:
The number of single adults in the United States.
· Top cuisine choices for a first date:
46% Italian, 19% Steakhouse, 16% Japanese, 11% Mexican, 8% French
· 11:
The number of single friends the average 27 year old has.
· One Hour:
The time it takes for a woman to determine whether or not she wants to see a man again.
· Baseball games:
A great place to meet men says 74% of single women.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Customer service tips
From Liz Tahir
Customer Service That Will Keep Them Coming Back
The People aspect of business is really what it is all about. Rule #1: Think of customers as individuals. Once we think that way, we realize our business is our customer, not our product or services. Putting all the focus on the merchandise in our store, or the services our corporation offers, leaves out the most important component: each individual customer.
Keeping those individual customers in mind, here are some easy, down-home customer service tips to keep ’em coming back!
1. Remember there is no way that the quality of customer service can exceed the quality of the people who provide it. Think you can get by paying the lowest wage, giving the fewest of benefits, doing the least training for your employees? It will show.Companies don't help customers... people do.
2. Realize that your people will treat your customer the way they are treated. Employees take their cue from management. Do you greet your employees enthusiastically each day; are you polite in your dealings with them; do you try to accommodate their requests; do you listen to them when they speak? Consistent rude customer service is a reflection not as much on the employee as on management.
3. Do you know who your customers are? If a regular customer came in to your facility, would you recognize them? Could you call them by name? All of us like to feel important; calling someone by name is a simple way to do it and lets them know you value them as customers.
Recently I signed on with a new fitness center. I had been a member of another one for the past ten years, renewing my membership every six months when the notice arrived. I had been thinking about changing, joining the one nearer my home and with more state-of-the-art equipment. So when the renewal notice came, I didn’t renew. That was eight months ago. Was I contacted by the fitness center and asked why I did not renew? Did anyone telephone me to find out why an established customer was no longer a member or to tell me they missed me? No and No. My guess is they don’t even know they lost a long-time customer, and apparently wouldn’t care.
4. Do your customers know who you are? If they see you, would they recognize you? Could they call you by name? A visible management is an asset. At the Piccadilly Cafeteria chain, the pictures of the manager and the assistant manager are posted on a wall at the food selection line and it is a policy that the manager’s office is placed only a few feet from the cashier's stand at the end of that line, in full view of the customers, and with the door kept open. The manager is easily accessible and there is no doubt about "who's in charge here". You have only to beckon to get a manager at your table to talk with you.
5. For good customer service, go the extra mile. Include a thank-you note in a customer's package; send a birthday card; clip the article when you see their name or photo in print; write a congratulatory note when they get a promotion. There are all sorts of ways for you to keep in touch with your customers and bring them closer to you.
6. Are your customers greeted when they walk in the door or at least within 30-40 seconds upon entering? Is it possible they could come in, look around, and go out without ever having their presence acknowledged? It is ironic it took a discount merchant known for price, not service, to teach the retail world the importance of greeting customers at the door. Could it be that’s because Sam Walton knew this simple but important gesture is a matter of respect, of saying "we appreciate your coming in," having nothing to do with the price of merchandise?
7. Give customers the benefit of the doubt. Proving to him why he’s wrong and you’re right isn’t worth losing a customer over. You will never win an argument with a customer, and you should never, ever put a customer in that position.
8. If a customer makes a request for something special, do everything you can to say yes. The fact that a customer cared enough to ask is all you need to know in trying to accommodate her. It may be an exception from your customer service policy, but (if it isn’t illegal) try to do it. Remember you are just making one exception for one customer, not making new policy. Mr. Marshall Field was right-on in his famous statement: "Give the lady what she wants."
9. Are your customer service associates properly trained in how to handle a customer complaint or an irate person? Give them guidelines for what to say and do in every conceivable case. People on the frontline of a situation play the most critical role in your customer’s experience. Make sure they know what to do and say to make that customer’s experience a positive, pleasant one.
10. Want to know what your customers think of your company? Ask them! Compose a "How're We Doing?" card and leave it at the exit or register stand, or include it in their next statement. Keep it short and simple. Ask things like: what it is they like; what they don’t like; what they would change; what you could do better; about their latest experience there, etc. To ensure the customer sends it in, have it pre-stamped. And if the customer has given their name and address, be sure to acknowledge receipt of the card.
Remember that the big money isn’t as much in winning customers as in keeping customers. Each individual customer’s perception of your company will determine how well you do this and that perception will depend on the level of customer service you provide.
Customer service
The Customer is King.
UNKNOWN
There are no traffic jams along the extra mile.
ROGER STAUBACH
Quality in a service or product is not what you put into it.
It is what the client or customer gets out of it.
PETER DRUCKER
Do what you do so well that they will
want to see it again and bring their friends.
WALT DISNEY
If we don’t take care of our customers, someone else will.
UNKNOWN
Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify!
HENRY DAVID THOREAU
If you make customers unhappy in the physical world, they might each tell 6 friends.
If you make customers unhappy on the Internet, they can each tell 6,000 friends.
JEFF BEZOS
Customers don’t expect you to be perfect.
They do expect you to fix things when they go wrong.
DONALD PORTER
Give trust, and you'll get it double in return
KEES KAMIES
The quality of our work depends on the quality of our people.
UNKNOWN
One of the deep secrets of life is that all that is really worth doing
is what we do for others.
LEWIS CAROL
The goal as a company is to have customer service that is
not just the best, but legendary.
SAM WALTON
Mistakes are the portals of discovery.
JAMES JOYCE
Being on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game.
Service wins the game.
TONY ALESSANDRA
Our greatest asset is the customer! Treat each customer as if they are the only one!
LAURICE LEITAO
People expect good service but few are willing to give it.
ROBERT GATELY
Well done is better than well said.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
To my customer.
I may not have the answer, but I’ll find it.
I may not have the time, but I’ll make it.
UNKNOWN
Here is a simple but powerful rule - always give people
more than what they expect to get.
NELSON BOSWELL
UNKNOWN
There are no traffic jams along the extra mile.
ROGER STAUBACH
Quality in a service or product is not what you put into it.
It is what the client or customer gets out of it.
PETER DRUCKER
Do what you do so well that they will
want to see it again and bring their friends.
WALT DISNEY
If we don’t take care of our customers, someone else will.
UNKNOWN
Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify!
HENRY DAVID THOREAU
If you make customers unhappy in the physical world, they might each tell 6 friends.
If you make customers unhappy on the Internet, they can each tell 6,000 friends.
JEFF BEZOS
Customers don’t expect you to be perfect.
They do expect you to fix things when they go wrong.
DONALD PORTER
Give trust, and you'll get it double in return
KEES KAMIES
The quality of our work depends on the quality of our people.
UNKNOWN
One of the deep secrets of life is that all that is really worth doing
is what we do for others.
LEWIS CAROL
The goal as a company is to have customer service that is
not just the best, but legendary.
SAM WALTON
Mistakes are the portals of discovery.
JAMES JOYCE
Being on par in terms of price and quality only gets you into the game.
Service wins the game.
TONY ALESSANDRA
Our greatest asset is the customer! Treat each customer as if they are the only one!
LAURICE LEITAO
People expect good service but few are willing to give it.
ROBERT GATELY
Well done is better than well said.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
To my customer.
I may not have the answer, but I’ll find it.
I may not have the time, but I’ll make it.
UNKNOWN
Here is a simple but powerful rule - always give people
more than what they expect to get.
NELSON BOSWELL
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Hurricane expo
With hurricane season looming, Miami-Dade and Broward counties are gearing up with expos on how to be prepared.
Here are the details:
• Miami-Dade: Storm Prep Expo 2008 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr., Hall C; Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 1, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Representatives from local, state and federal government will be on hand to provide information about hurricane-related services, and vendors will be selling storm supplies and conducting giveaways.
• Broward: Hurricane Preparedness Expo at the Emergency Operations Center, 201 NW 84th Ave., Plantation; Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Get a tour of the EOC, learn about registering for emergency services such as special-needs shelters, evacuation transportation and hurricane e-mail updates.
Balloons and goody bags will be on hand for the kids, as well as giveaways and prizes for the grown-ups.
Admission to both events is free.
Here are the details:
• Miami-Dade: Storm Prep Expo 2008 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr., Hall C; Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 1, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Representatives from local, state and federal government will be on hand to provide information about hurricane-related services, and vendors will be selling storm supplies and conducting giveaways.
• Broward: Hurricane Preparedness Expo at the Emergency Operations Center, 201 NW 84th Ave., Plantation; Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Get a tour of the EOC, learn about registering for emergency services such as special-needs shelters, evacuation transportation and hurricane e-mail updates.
Balloons and goody bags will be on hand for the kids, as well as giveaways and prizes for the grown-ups.
Admission to both events is free.
Be prepared
Get Ready Now - Hurricane Season Is Almost Here
Hurricane Preparedness Week: May 25 - 31st
Storm Prep Expo: Miami Beach Convention Center
Saturday & Sunday: Free Admission
(CBS4)
Hurricane Season is just around the corner and Governor Charlie Crist is urging all Floridians to prepare for the season which begins Sunday June 1st. That's why Gov. Crist has proclaimed this week, Hurricane Preparedness Week.
"If you call the Sunshine State home, now is the time to get a plan and get ready," said State Emergency Management Director Craig Fugate.
State and local emergency managers are hosting outreach events and expos from the Panhandle to the Keys o get Floridians ready for the annual season. The state kick-off event takes place Tuesday in St. Petersburg.
Here in South Florida, the American Red Cross, along with the Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is hosting a Storm Prep Expo this weekend at the Miami Beach Convention Center (Hall C), located at 1901 Convention Center Drive.
Storm Prep Expo 2008 is a not-for-profit event aimed at raising hurricane preparedness awareness among Miami-Dade County residents. Miami-Dade County has not been affected by a major hurricane in the past three years. Experts are predicting an active 2008 hurricane season, so it is important that residents remain ready.
"June 1st marks the beginning of the 2008 Hurricane Season. As we all know, the best defense against hurricanes is to plan and prepare early. Even though Miami-Dade County is better prepared than ever to provide services to those residents and visitors in need before and after a hurricane strikes, government cannot do it all alone," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez. "We continue to urge residents to prepare their hurricane disaster kits and plan to be self sufficient for at least 72 hours following a storm."
"This is a great opportunity for residents to come out and make their final preparations for hurricane season," said C. Douglas Bass, director of the Department of Emergency Management & Homeland Security.
Mayor Alvarez will hold his annual hurricane season kick-off news conference at the Expo on May 31st, at 11:00 a.m. Dozens of local, state and federal agencies will be on hand to inform residents about available services. Vendors will be selling hurricane supplies and conducting major giveaways, including free generators, vacations and other great prizes.
Special guests include former National Hurricane Center (NHC) Director Max Mayfield and current NHC Director Bill Read.
CBS4 Meteorologist David Bernard will also present a half-hour Hurricane Preparedness presentation on Sunday, June 1st, at 2:00 p.m.
Storm Prep Expo will also feature a family zone with fun activities for children, as well as a performance by the Florida Marlins Mermaids, police K-9 demonstrations, and more.
Storm Prep Expo Hours:
Saturday, May 31st, 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 1st, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Admission is free.
Click Here for more information about Hurricane Preparedness Week.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 12 to 16 named storms this year.
The 2008 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, 2008. To develop your personalized family or business disaster plan, click here.
Hurricane Preparedness Week: May 25 - 31st
Storm Prep Expo: Miami Beach Convention Center
Saturday & Sunday: Free Admission
(CBS4)
Hurricane Season is just around the corner and Governor Charlie Crist is urging all Floridians to prepare for the season which begins Sunday June 1st. That's why Gov. Crist has proclaimed this week, Hurricane Preparedness Week.
"If you call the Sunshine State home, now is the time to get a plan and get ready," said State Emergency Management Director Craig Fugate.
State and local emergency managers are hosting outreach events and expos from the Panhandle to the Keys o get Floridians ready for the annual season. The state kick-off event takes place Tuesday in St. Petersburg.
Here in South Florida, the American Red Cross, along with the Miami-Dade County Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is hosting a Storm Prep Expo this weekend at the Miami Beach Convention Center (Hall C), located at 1901 Convention Center Drive.
Storm Prep Expo 2008 is a not-for-profit event aimed at raising hurricane preparedness awareness among Miami-Dade County residents. Miami-Dade County has not been affected by a major hurricane in the past three years. Experts are predicting an active 2008 hurricane season, so it is important that residents remain ready.
"June 1st marks the beginning of the 2008 Hurricane Season. As we all know, the best defense against hurricanes is to plan and prepare early. Even though Miami-Dade County is better prepared than ever to provide services to those residents and visitors in need before and after a hurricane strikes, government cannot do it all alone," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez. "We continue to urge residents to prepare their hurricane disaster kits and plan to be self sufficient for at least 72 hours following a storm."
"This is a great opportunity for residents to come out and make their final preparations for hurricane season," said C. Douglas Bass, director of the Department of Emergency Management & Homeland Security.
Mayor Alvarez will hold his annual hurricane season kick-off news conference at the Expo on May 31st, at 11:00 a.m. Dozens of local, state and federal agencies will be on hand to inform residents about available services. Vendors will be selling hurricane supplies and conducting major giveaways, including free generators, vacations and other great prizes.
Special guests include former National Hurricane Center (NHC) Director Max Mayfield and current NHC Director Bill Read.
CBS4 Meteorologist David Bernard will also present a half-hour Hurricane Preparedness presentation on Sunday, June 1st, at 2:00 p.m.
Storm Prep Expo will also feature a family zone with fun activities for children, as well as a performance by the Florida Marlins Mermaids, police K-9 demonstrations, and more.
Storm Prep Expo Hours:
Saturday, May 31st, 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 1st, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Admission is free.
Click Here for more information about Hurricane Preparedness Week.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts 12 to 16 named storms this year.
The 2008 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 through November 30, 2008. To develop your personalized family or business disaster plan, click here.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Teachers ask, you choose
You can come to the rescue of a teacher. Teachers accusomed to paying for classroom supplies out of their own pockets are now looking online for help. Many are getting supplies from folks like you through a website called DonorsChoose.org.
According to the site: Teachers ask for materials and experiences their students need to learn. You choose to give to the classroom project you find most compelling. Students learn and then send you personal thank-you letters and photos.
According to the site: Teachers ask for materials and experiences their students need to learn. You choose to give to the classroom project you find most compelling. Students learn and then send you personal thank-you letters and photos.
Suits that suit you
Find the Perfect Swimsuit for your Body Type
By Juliana Day
Bathing suit season is finally here. I don't know about you, but this time of year I cram my fridge with cottage cheese and baby carrots. I just had my second child, and I need HELP when it comes to the fine art of camouflage. I did some research on the best suits for different shaped figures, and though I know most of us have perfect bodies (ha!), I thought I'd share my findings.
Large Bust
The nursing mother has plenty to show up top. Whether you're nursing or just plain busty, you can minimize your overflowing cups with spaghetti straps or wide straps on your swimsuit or bikini. (Though most busty women have already from hard experience that unless you are trying out for a spot on "Baywatch", there are slim pickings for full coverage in the bikini top department).
Busty women can also try a sports top. These tops keep everything in place and add the comfort of full coverage.
Small Bust
Ah! The freedom of the small bust! To give yourself a little boost in this department, try the vast array of padded bikini tops available. If you prefer something with a little more coverage, try suits with a horizontal neckline or bloused top. This will draw attention to your shoulders and give the illusion of a fuller bust.
Long Torso
Shorten a long torso by employing the use of horizontal stripes on a bikini. This will allow the eye to focus on the top and bottom, not the middle. A sports top will also camouflage a long torso by creating a more uniform look.
Short Torso
Surprise, surprise: vertical stripes.
Wide Shoulders
Choose a swimsuit or bikini with a halter top. Thick straps up top help make shoulders look more proportional.
Belly Bulge
Hey sister, nothing to be ashamed of. I'm there myself; it's just not the most fun thing to show off at the beach. Try an empire waist. You will find it draws attention to the bust line and slims the tummy area. Also, choose solid, dark-colored swimsuits for a more streamlined look. Some women like the look of a V neckline as it draws the eyes up towards the bust and the face.
Heavy Hips, Thighs and Backside
Employing a pretty skirt or shorts is a fun way to dress up a swimsuit while hiding heavy hips, thighs and backside. A bloused top also creates proportion and helps minimize the look of heavy legs.
Short Legged
A high cut leg on a swimsuit elongates your glamorous gams. A solid one-piece suit creates an elongating affect on the petite gal and doesn't break up the body (causing the body to look shorter). Stay away from shorts and skirts on the bottom as they tend to make you appear shorter.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind while shopping for the perfect beach side apparel:
While trying on suits, notice where you eye is first drawn to on the suit. This will let you evaluate how flattering (or not) it is. You want your eyes to be drawn to your best features.
Accentuate an hourglass figure with a belt or band across the smallest part of your waist.
Choose something comfortable! Take a few steps, stand up, sit down, twist and turn to determine whether or not you will be tugging or pulling at your swimsuit all day.
Swimsuits are a tricky business, but by employing these simple tips, you should have no problem finding something perfect for your body type.
By Juliana Day
Bathing suit season is finally here. I don't know about you, but this time of year I cram my fridge with cottage cheese and baby carrots. I just had my second child, and I need HELP when it comes to the fine art of camouflage. I did some research on the best suits for different shaped figures, and though I know most of us have perfect bodies (ha!), I thought I'd share my findings.
Large Bust
The nursing mother has plenty to show up top. Whether you're nursing or just plain busty, you can minimize your overflowing cups with spaghetti straps or wide straps on your swimsuit or bikini. (Though most busty women have already from hard experience that unless you are trying out for a spot on "Baywatch", there are slim pickings for full coverage in the bikini top department).
Busty women can also try a sports top. These tops keep everything in place and add the comfort of full coverage.
Small Bust
Ah! The freedom of the small bust! To give yourself a little boost in this department, try the vast array of padded bikini tops available. If you prefer something with a little more coverage, try suits with a horizontal neckline or bloused top. This will draw attention to your shoulders and give the illusion of a fuller bust.
Long Torso
Shorten a long torso by employing the use of horizontal stripes on a bikini. This will allow the eye to focus on the top and bottom, not the middle. A sports top will also camouflage a long torso by creating a more uniform look.
Short Torso
Surprise, surprise: vertical stripes.
Wide Shoulders
Choose a swimsuit or bikini with a halter top. Thick straps up top help make shoulders look more proportional.
Belly Bulge
Hey sister, nothing to be ashamed of. I'm there myself; it's just not the most fun thing to show off at the beach. Try an empire waist. You will find it draws attention to the bust line and slims the tummy area. Also, choose solid, dark-colored swimsuits for a more streamlined look. Some women like the look of a V neckline as it draws the eyes up towards the bust and the face.
Heavy Hips, Thighs and Backside
Employing a pretty skirt or shorts is a fun way to dress up a swimsuit while hiding heavy hips, thighs and backside. A bloused top also creates proportion and helps minimize the look of heavy legs.
Short Legged
A high cut leg on a swimsuit elongates your glamorous gams. A solid one-piece suit creates an elongating affect on the petite gal and doesn't break up the body (causing the body to look shorter). Stay away from shorts and skirts on the bottom as they tend to make you appear shorter.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind while shopping for the perfect beach side apparel:
While trying on suits, notice where you eye is first drawn to on the suit. This will let you evaluate how flattering (or not) it is. You want your eyes to be drawn to your best features.
Accentuate an hourglass figure with a belt or band across the smallest part of your waist.
Choose something comfortable! Take a few steps, stand up, sit down, twist and turn to determine whether or not you will be tugging or pulling at your swimsuit all day.
Swimsuits are a tricky business, but by employing these simple tips, you should have no problem finding something perfect for your body type.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Grill safe
Are you Master of your Propane?
According to the NFPA, gas and charcoal grills caused an average of 900 structure fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in or on home properties in 2002, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $30 million. To make sure your next barbecue doesn't go up in flames, the Home Safety Council recommends these safety tips.
Enjoy that steak as you become Lord of the Grill!
According to the NFPA, gas and charcoal grills caused an average of 900 structure fires and 3,500 outdoor fires in or on home properties in 2002, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $30 million. To make sure your next barbecue doesn't go up in flames, the Home Safety Council recommends these safety tips.
Enjoy that steak as you become Lord of the Grill!
Cost of grilling
Hamburgers and hot dogs? Check. Lighter fluid? Check. Beer? Check. More money?
Americans are about to fire up their barbecues for the start of the summer cookout season, and one thing has become painfully apparent: It's going to cost a lot more than it did last year to roast a burger, or just about any other barbecue favorite, on the grill.
Food inflation is the highest in almost two decades, driven by record prices for oil, gas and mounting global demand for staples such as wheat and corn, and for proteins such as chicken. And that's reaching into Americans' backyards.
The price of an average barbecue -- with burgers, hot dogs, beer, soda, condiments, salad, paper plates and lighter fluid -- could run families about 6% more than last year.
Read more.
Americans are about to fire up their barbecues for the start of the summer cookout season, and one thing has become painfully apparent: It's going to cost a lot more than it did last year to roast a burger, or just about any other barbecue favorite, on the grill.
Food inflation is the highest in almost two decades, driven by record prices for oil, gas and mounting global demand for staples such as wheat and corn, and for proteins such as chicken. And that's reaching into Americans' backyards.
The price of an average barbecue -- with burgers, hot dogs, beer, soda, condiments, salad, paper plates and lighter fluid -- could run families about 6% more than last year.
Read more.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Kids and manners
Does your daughter slurp her soup? Does you son like to lick his plate? Are your meals filled with burping contests? Momsmiami.com has a great article you should read.
Screen cleaners
Keep your screens clean of smudges and fingerprints. Monster has a new product you may want to try.
Happy computing!
Happy computing!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Cook's song
"The Time of My Life" Was Written by Regie Hamm, Winner of the American
Idol Songwriting Competition
American Idol season 7 winner David Cook's first single "The Time Of My Life" (19 Recordings) is available at iTunes now. "The Time Of My Life" was written by Regie Hamm, the winner of the second American Idol Songwriting Competition.
On Friday, May 23rd "The Time Of My Life" will be available at all
digital music retailers.
Idol Songwriting Competition
American Idol season 7 winner David Cook's first single "The Time Of My Life" (19 Recordings) is available at iTunes now. "The Time Of My Life" was written by Regie Hamm, the winner of the second American Idol Songwriting Competition.
On Friday, May 23rd "The Time Of My Life" will be available at all
digital music retailers.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Feng shui getaway
We all long to create an easy flow in our lives. One way to do this is to use feng shui, the ancient art developed by the Chinese to increase the flow of positive energy ("chi") in any environment. "Feng shui" literally means "wind and water"... two elements occurring in nature that represent positive movement and flow.
You may have heard of using feng shui to design a home or a room, but did you know its principles can also be used to promote a positive flow of energy during your vacation? Here are some feng shui tips that will help make your getaway the relaxing time-out you've been looking forward to.
You may have heard of using feng shui to design a home or a room, but did you know its principles can also be used to promote a positive flow of energy during your vacation? Here are some feng shui tips that will help make your getaway the relaxing time-out you've been looking forward to.
Need some time off
Top Ten Signs You Need a Vacation
10. Grocery shopping is the high point of your day.
9. You read text exclusively between the lines.
8. The last movie you saw was 'Gone With The Wind'.
7. You repeatedly ask your co-workers to put tanning lotion on your back.
6. Your fingers are stuck in "asdf jkl " position.
5. You take Labor Day literally.
4. You average about one nervous breakdown a week.
3. Your mobile home has traveled more often than you.
2. You win the award for most consecutive days of attendance.
1. You see the light at the end of the tunnel and believe it is a train coming at you!
10. Grocery shopping is the high point of your day.
9. You read text exclusively between the lines.
8. The last movie you saw was 'Gone With The Wind'.
7. You repeatedly ask your co-workers to put tanning lotion on your back.
6. Your fingers are stuck in "asdf jkl " position.
5. You take Labor Day literally.
4. You average about one nervous breakdown a week.
3. Your mobile home has traveled more often than you.
2. You win the award for most consecutive days of attendance.
1. You see the light at the end of the tunnel and believe it is a train coming at you!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Save on gas
Did you fill up your gas tank this weekend? Gasoline isn’t
cheap these days, but there ARE ways to cut costs. Here are a few ways
to get more bang for your gas buck, courtesy of CNN:
* *Find the cheapest gas stations in your area.* In most cities, you
can save 30 or 40 cents a gallon if you know where to look. So,
check out the prices at GasPriceWatch.com. Here’s a good rule of
thumb: Gas stations in upscale areas and near highways generally
charge more because the land is more valuable, so their overhead
is higher, and the costs are passed on to consumers. Also,
stations near state borders tend to slash prices – as a kind of
“welcome to our state” sign.
* *The TYPE of gas station makes a difference.* Service stations
with auto repair shops or car washes usually charge more for gas.
They don’t need to be as competitive, since the other services are
more profitable and bring in gas customers anyway. Gas stations at
big box stores, like Costco or Sam’s Club, are a good bet if
prices are going down. Why? Because they sell so much gas that the
price is reflected at their pumps more quickly. Even if you don’t
have a big box store membership, you can still save. Because
nearby gas stations often lower their prices to compete with the
big box stores.
* *Buy gas on Wednesday mornings.* Gas prices usually move up for
the weekend. So, the lowest point is early Wednesday. In fact,
always buy gas EARLY in the morning. Gasoline pumps charge by
volume – not density. Since gas is denser when it’s cool, you’ll
get more bang for your buck if you fill your tank during the
coolest part of the day.
* *Watch your driving style.* Studies show that gentle acceleration,
and using cruise control on highways can improve fuel efficiency
by as much as *35%*. Which means, you could save 50 cents every
time you _don’t_ stomp on the accelerator.
* *Buy the lowest-grade gas possible.* High-performance cars, like
Porsches or Ferraris, need high-octane gasoline for top fuel
efficiency, but unless your car manufacturer _requires_ premium
gasoline, your car will run just fine on lower-priced regular.
cheap these days, but there ARE ways to cut costs. Here are a few ways
to get more bang for your gas buck, courtesy of CNN:
* *Find the cheapest gas stations in your area.* In most cities, you
can save 30 or 40 cents a gallon if you know where to look. So,
check out the prices at GasPriceWatch.com. Here’s a good rule of
thumb: Gas stations in upscale areas and near highways generally
charge more because the land is more valuable, so their overhead
is higher, and the costs are passed on to consumers. Also,
stations near state borders tend to slash prices – as a kind of
“welcome to our state” sign.
* *The TYPE of gas station makes a difference.* Service stations
with auto repair shops or car washes usually charge more for gas.
They don’t need to be as competitive, since the other services are
more profitable and bring in gas customers anyway. Gas stations at
big box stores, like Costco or Sam’s Club, are a good bet if
prices are going down. Why? Because they sell so much gas that the
price is reflected at their pumps more quickly. Even if you don’t
have a big box store membership, you can still save. Because
nearby gas stations often lower their prices to compete with the
big box stores.
* *Buy gas on Wednesday mornings.* Gas prices usually move up for
the weekend. So, the lowest point is early Wednesday. In fact,
always buy gas EARLY in the morning. Gasoline pumps charge by
volume – not density. Since gas is denser when it’s cool, you’ll
get more bang for your buck if you fill your tank during the
coolest part of the day.
* *Watch your driving style.* Studies show that gentle acceleration,
and using cruise control on highways can improve fuel efficiency
by as much as *35%*. Which means, you could save 50 cents every
time you _don’t_ stomp on the accelerator.
* *Buy the lowest-grade gas possible.* High-performance cars, like
Porsches or Ferraris, need high-octane gasoline for top fuel
efficiency, but unless your car manufacturer _requires_ premium
gasoline, your car will run just fine on lower-priced regular.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Dog paddle
Water safety is a top priority in South Florida where there are thousands of swimming pools, beaches, canals, and other waterways. In the late 1990s, the need for a drowning prevention program became clear when the number of drowning accidents among children aged five and under grew to an average of 10 deaths a year. Near-drowning accidents took a serious toll as well, with three out of four victims suffering brain damage.
Swim Central offers swim lessons.
Swim Central offers swim lessons.
Safe boating
It's National Safe Boating Week. A fun day on the water can turn deadly if you make poor choices. Here are some ways to ensure a fun and safe day on the water.
Safe boating requires safe boat operation and safe waters. Safe and secure waters are patrolled by the U.S. Coast Guard and other security forces. Give them a helping hand and ALWAYS wear your life jacket. Be "on patrol" to keep our waters safe.
Bad weather has a dampening effect on any boating experience. The wind, rain and rough water associated with bad weather poses a safety hazard to the unsuspecting boater. The best thing a boater can do is to avoid bad weather by anticipating it. Recognize it early, and head for shore. If you are in a small craft on a large body of water, head to the safety of the harbor.
Get more safe boating tips.
Safe boating requires safe boat operation and safe waters. Safe and secure waters are patrolled by the U.S. Coast Guard and other security forces. Give them a helping hand and ALWAYS wear your life jacket. Be "on patrol" to keep our waters safe.
Bad weather has a dampening effect on any boating experience. The wind, rain and rough water associated with bad weather poses a safety hazard to the unsuspecting boater. The best thing a boater can do is to avoid bad weather by anticipating it. Recognize it early, and head for shore. If you are in a small craft on a large body of water, head to the safety of the harbor.
Get more safe boating tips.
Friday, May 16, 2008
The solar bra
Ladies, take your battle for the environment a little closer to your heart with a solar-powered bra that can generate enough electric energy to charge a mobile phone or an iPod.
Lingerie maker Triumph International Japan Ltd unveiled its environmentally friendly, and green colored, "Solar Power Bra" on Wednesday in Tokyo which features a solar panel worn around the stomach.
The panel requires light to generate electricity and the concept bra will not be in stores anytime soon, said Triumph spokeswoman Yoshiko Masuda, as "people usually can not go outside without wearing clothes over it."
But it does send the message of how lingerie could possibly save the planet, Masuda said, adding that the bra should not be washed or sunned on a rainy day to avoid damaging it.
Being eco-friendly is now fashionable in Japan, and the "Solar Energy Bra" follows the company's other green-themed undergarments that include a bra that turns into a reusable shopping bag and one that featured metal chopsticks to promote the use of reusable chopsticks.
"It is very comfortable and I can really feel involved in eco-friendly efforts as well," model Yuko Ishida said.
Lingerie maker Triumph International Japan Ltd unveiled its environmentally friendly, and green colored, "Solar Power Bra" on Wednesday in Tokyo which features a solar panel worn around the stomach.
The panel requires light to generate electricity and the concept bra will not be in stores anytime soon, said Triumph spokeswoman Yoshiko Masuda, as "people usually can not go outside without wearing clothes over it."
But it does send the message of how lingerie could possibly save the planet, Masuda said, adding that the bra should not be washed or sunned on a rainy day to avoid damaging it.
Being eco-friendly is now fashionable in Japan, and the "Solar Energy Bra" follows the company's other green-themed undergarments that include a bra that turns into a reusable shopping bag and one that featured metal chopsticks to promote the use of reusable chopsticks.
"It is very comfortable and I can really feel involved in eco-friendly efforts as well," model Yuko Ishida said.
Save on food
These days, it's almost as scary to fill your grocery cart as your gas tank. A gallon of unleaded costs Floridians 20 percent more than it did a year ago. Food costs have zoomed up 6 percent in that time, with double-digit increases for staples like milk and bread.
The Miami Herald had a great article with tips to save on food costs.
The Miami Herald had a great article with tips to save on food costs.
Freezing food tips
Step1
Consider the food. Unfortunately, not all leftovers can be frozen and keep well. Avoid freezing foods like lettuce, egg salad, watermelon and oranges. They are likely to become soggy if placed in the freezer.
Step2
Freeze meat with caution. If you defrosted the meat completely, you should cook it before you place it in the freezer.
Step3
Allow the food to cool. Leftovers are best frozen after they have cooled considerably. Put the food in the fridge for several hours before transferring it to the freezer.
Step4
Remember to package the leftovers correctly. Use containers that are freezer safe to store the leftovers. Glassware is usually a safe bet to store foods that are sauce based. Breads can be put in tinfoil and placed in the freezer.
Step5
Mark the different packages. If you plan to freeze a lot of leftovers, write the name of the food on each container that you place in the freezer. You should put the date that it was frozen as well.
Consider the food. Unfortunately, not all leftovers can be frozen and keep well. Avoid freezing foods like lettuce, egg salad, watermelon and oranges. They are likely to become soggy if placed in the freezer.
Step2
Freeze meat with caution. If you defrosted the meat completely, you should cook it before you place it in the freezer.
Step3
Allow the food to cool. Leftovers are best frozen after they have cooled considerably. Put the food in the fridge for several hours before transferring it to the freezer.
Step4
Remember to package the leftovers correctly. Use containers that are freezer safe to store the leftovers. Glassware is usually a safe bet to store foods that are sauce based. Breads can be put in tinfoil and placed in the freezer.
Step5
Mark the different packages. If you plan to freeze a lot of leftovers, write the name of the food on each container that you place in the freezer. You should put the date that it was frozen as well.
Rabies alert
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES AND THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT URGE PET OWNERS TO VACCINATE AGAINST RABIES
The Health Department has confirmed this week that a bat in the zip code area 33177 tested positive for the rabies virus. Unfortunately, before it died the bat bit a person. Citizens seeking information regarding rabies can call the Miami-Dade County’s Health Department at 305 324-2400.
“The rabies virus is spread when an infected animal bites or scratches another animal or person. All pets should be vaccinated against rabies, as that is the best way to protect pets and people from this deadly disease,” said Dr. Sara Pizano, Miami-Dade County Animal Services Director.
Miami-Dade County Health Department and Animal Services officials are urging the public to help protect themselves and to prevent the spread of rabies by taking the following steps:
Keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all dogs, cats and ferrets. It’s the law!
Do not allow your pets to run free. If a wild animal bites your pet, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.
Call Animal Services at 311 to have stray dogs removed.
Feed your pets indoors.
Don’t use your hands to break up a fight between animals.
Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or regularly vaccinated.
Avoid direct contact with unfamiliar animals.
Do not handle, or feed wild animals (raccoons, bats, skunks, foxes) or unintentionally attract them with open garbage cans or litter.
Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home. Do not try to nurse sick animals to health.
Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches and schools, where they might come in contact with people and pets. If you find a bat in your home, contact the health department.
When traveling abroad, avoid direct contact with wild animals and be especially careful around dogs in developing countries.
For additional information, please visit CDC’s website or Miami-Dade Animal Services website.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Gong show auditions
COMEDY CENTRAL'S 'The Gong Show With Dave Attell' Begins Casting Open Call Auditions in Las Vegas on Monday, May 19 From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PT
Auditions Held At The V Theatre At Planet Hollywood Located At 3663 Las
Vegas Blvd South In Las Vegas
'The Gong Show With Dave Attell' Premieres Thursday, July 17 At 10:30 p.m.
ET/PT*
The most original and wonderfully bizarre comedy variety show is now casting! The open casting calls for "The Gong Show with Dave Attell" kick off Monday, May 19 at The V Theatre at Planet Hollywood located at 3663 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas.
Performers should submit their name, phone number, type of act and any
links or videos to gongshowcasting@aol.com.
COMEDY CENTRAL and host Dave Attell are looking for the wackiest,
wildest, most bizarre, unique performers out there! All acts are welcome --
from cutting edge variety to stupid human tricks and animal tricks, from
the dark to the daring to the downright insane! "The Gong Show with Dave
Attell" premieres Thursday, July 17 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.
COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more
than 95 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a
registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of Viacom
Inc.'s (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet
address is http://www.comedycentral.com. For up-to-the-minute and archival press
information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press Web
site at http://www.comedycentral.com/press.
Auditions Held At The V Theatre At Planet Hollywood Located At 3663 Las
Vegas Blvd South In Las Vegas
'The Gong Show With Dave Attell' Premieres Thursday, July 17 At 10:30 p.m.
ET/PT*
The most original and wonderfully bizarre comedy variety show is now casting! The open casting calls for "The Gong Show with Dave Attell" kick off Monday, May 19 at The V Theatre at Planet Hollywood located at 3663 Las Vegas Boulevard South in Las Vegas.
Performers should submit their name, phone number, type of act and any
links or videos to gongshowcasting@aol.com.
COMEDY CENTRAL and host Dave Attell are looking for the wackiest,
wildest, most bizarre, unique performers out there! All acts are welcome --
from cutting edge variety to stupid human tricks and animal tricks, from
the dark to the daring to the downright insane! "The Gong Show with Dave
Attell" premieres Thursday, July 17 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.
COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network, currently is seen in more
than 95 million homes nationwide. COMEDY CENTRAL is owned by, and is a
registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned division of Viacom
Inc.'s (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B) MTV Networks. COMEDY CENTRAL's Internet
address is http://www.comedycentral.com. For up-to-the-minute and archival press
information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press Web
site at http://www.comedycentral.com/press.
Medication Nation
For the first time, it appears that more than half of all insured Americans are taking prescription medicines regularly for chronic health problems, a study shows.
The most widely used drugs are those to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol - problems often linked to heart disease, obesity and diabetes.
The numbers were gathered last year by Medco Health Solutions Inc., which manages prescription benefits for about one in five Americans.
Experts say the data reflect not just worsening public health but better medicines for chronic conditions and more aggressive treatment by doctors. For example, more people are now taking blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering medicines because they need them, said Dr. Daniel W. Jones, president of the American Heart Association.
In addition, there is the pharmaceutical industry's relentless advertising. With those factors unlikely to change, doctors say the proportion of Americans on chronic medications can only grow.
"Unless we do things to change the way we're managing health in this country . . . things will get worse instead of getting better," predicted Jones, a heart specialist and dean of the University of Mississippi's medical school.
Americans buy much more medicine per person than any other country. But it was unclear how their prescriptions compare to those of insured people elsewhere. Comparable data were not available for Europe, for instance.
Medco's data show that last year, 51 percent of American children and adults were taking one or more prescription drugs for a chronic condition, up from 50 percent the previous four years and 47 percent in 2001. Most of the drugs are taken daily, although some are needed less often.
The company examined prescription records from 2001 to 2007 of a representative sample of 2.5 million customers, from newborns to the elderly.
Medication use for chronic problems was seen in all demographic groups:
• Almost two-thirds of women 20 and older.
• One in four children and teenagers.
• 52 percent of adult men.
• Three out of four people 65 or older.
Among seniors, 28 percent of women and nearly 22 percent of men take five or more medicines regularly.
Karen Walker of Paterson, N.J., takes 18 prescription medicines daily for high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic back and shoulder pain, asthma and the painful muscle disorder fibromyalgia.
"The only way I can do it and keep my sanity . . . is I use pill boxes" to organize pills for each morning and night, said Walker, 57, a full-time nurse at an HIV clinic. Her 69-year-old husband, Charles, keeps his medicines lined up on his bureau: four pills for arthritis and heart disease, plus two inhalers for lung problems.
Dr. Robert Epstein, chief medical officer at Franklin Lakes, N.J.-based Medco, said he sees both bad news and good in the findings.
"Honestly, a lot of it is related to obesity," he said. "We've become a couch potato culture (and) it's a lot easier to pop a pill" than to exercise regularly or diet.
On the good side, he said, researchers have turned what used to be fatal diseases into chronic ones, including AIDS, some cancers, hemophilia and sickle-cell disease.
Yet Epstein noted the biggest jump in use of chronic medications was in the 20- to 44-year-old age group where it rose 20 percent over the six years. That was mainly due to more use of drugs for depression, diabetes, asthma, attention-deficit disorder and seizures.
The most widely used drugs are those to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol - problems often linked to heart disease, obesity and diabetes.
The numbers were gathered last year by Medco Health Solutions Inc., which manages prescription benefits for about one in five Americans.
Experts say the data reflect not just worsening public health but better medicines for chronic conditions and more aggressive treatment by doctors. For example, more people are now taking blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering medicines because they need them, said Dr. Daniel W. Jones, president of the American Heart Association.
In addition, there is the pharmaceutical industry's relentless advertising. With those factors unlikely to change, doctors say the proportion of Americans on chronic medications can only grow.
"Unless we do things to change the way we're managing health in this country . . . things will get worse instead of getting better," predicted Jones, a heart specialist and dean of the University of Mississippi's medical school.
Americans buy much more medicine per person than any other country. But it was unclear how their prescriptions compare to those of insured people elsewhere. Comparable data were not available for Europe, for instance.
Medco's data show that last year, 51 percent of American children and adults were taking one or more prescription drugs for a chronic condition, up from 50 percent the previous four years and 47 percent in 2001. Most of the drugs are taken daily, although some are needed less often.
The company examined prescription records from 2001 to 2007 of a representative sample of 2.5 million customers, from newborns to the elderly.
Medication use for chronic problems was seen in all demographic groups:
• Almost two-thirds of women 20 and older.
• One in four children and teenagers.
• 52 percent of adult men.
• Three out of four people 65 or older.
Among seniors, 28 percent of women and nearly 22 percent of men take five or more medicines regularly.
Karen Walker of Paterson, N.J., takes 18 prescription medicines daily for high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic back and shoulder pain, asthma and the painful muscle disorder fibromyalgia.
"The only way I can do it and keep my sanity . . . is I use pill boxes" to organize pills for each morning and night, said Walker, 57, a full-time nurse at an HIV clinic. Her 69-year-old husband, Charles, keeps his medicines lined up on his bureau: four pills for arthritis and heart disease, plus two inhalers for lung problems.
Dr. Robert Epstein, chief medical officer at Franklin Lakes, N.J.-based Medco, said he sees both bad news and good in the findings.
"Honestly, a lot of it is related to obesity," he said. "We've become a couch potato culture (and) it's a lot easier to pop a pill" than to exercise regularly or diet.
On the good side, he said, researchers have turned what used to be fatal diseases into chronic ones, including AIDS, some cancers, hemophilia and sickle-cell disease.
Yet Epstein noted the biggest jump in use of chronic medications was in the 20- to 44-year-old age group where it rose 20 percent over the six years. That was mainly due to more use of drugs for depression, diabetes, asthma, attention-deficit disorder and seizures.
Cheating moms
One-third of married moms have cheated!
by Sandy Maple
Cookie Magazine and the AOL Body Website conducted a poll of 30,000 mothers to find out just what is going on in their bedrooms and in their minds. The survey, called Sex and the American Mom, asked some interesting questions and got some surprising answers.
Most surprising - at least to me - was the fact that 34 percent of married moms said they had cheated on their spouses after having children. Why all the sneaking around? The answer may lie in another statistic: only 36 percent said they are as attracted to their husbands now as when they first married.
And according to the survey results, even those who haven't cheated are thinking about it. More than half admitted considering an affair since having children. "That's a far cry from just fantasizing about it, which I think is an important distinction," said Pilar Guzman, editor-in-chief of Cookie magazine.
Clearly, most of us are not looking for love outside our marriages. And whatever the reasons for unhappiness in the bedroom, the survey shows that many wives are at least trying to work it out. When asked if they would have sex with their husbands if they weren't in the mood, 69 percent said they would. But 22 percent are thinking about George Clooney while they are doing it.
by Sandy Maple
Cookie Magazine and the AOL Body Website conducted a poll of 30,000 mothers to find out just what is going on in their bedrooms and in their minds. The survey, called Sex and the American Mom, asked some interesting questions and got some surprising answers.
Most surprising - at least to me - was the fact that 34 percent of married moms said they had cheated on their spouses after having children. Why all the sneaking around? The answer may lie in another statistic: only 36 percent said they are as attracted to their husbands now as when they first married.
And according to the survey results, even those who haven't cheated are thinking about it. More than half admitted considering an affair since having children. "That's a far cry from just fantasizing about it, which I think is an important distinction," said Pilar Guzman, editor-in-chief of Cookie magazine.
Clearly, most of us are not looking for love outside our marriages. And whatever the reasons for unhappiness in the bedroom, the survey shows that many wives are at least trying to work it out. When asked if they would have sex with their husbands if they weren't in the mood, 69 percent said they would. But 22 percent are thinking about George Clooney while they are doing it.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Adventures
What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done? Need some ideas?
I love to kayak, scuba dive, repel and skydive. What's your passion?
I love to kayak, scuba dive, repel and skydive. What's your passion?
Indiana Jones
Get ready for the 4th installment and Indy's next adventure. Indiana Jones and the Kindgom of the Crystal Skull opens May 22nd.
Let the adventure begin!
Let the adventure begin!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Senior Idol
Don't miss Senior Idol. Your elders belt out the tunes on stage at the Parker Playhouse. Tickets are only ten dollars. Click here for more information.
Girls night out or in ideas
Ideas for 'Girls' Night Out' or In
By Robin Dalmas
"Sisterhood is Powerful" proclaims a feminist book from the 1970s. If that's true, just think what would happen if every woman threw a party for all her girlfriends. Along with the obvious conversation, laughter and empathy, who knows what great new friendships might be forged — and what productive networking might be accomplished.
When it comes to all-women soirees, the sky's the limit. You can throw a traditional party with food and libation or engineer a more focused event. One woman threw a "Remember When You Were 10?" party and invited 50 women over to wear pajamas, eat s'mores and do crafts. More sophisticated parties can give women the opportunity to network for their careers, gain knowledge of accounting, finance and investing, or just relax with some pampering spa treatments in the home.
Traditional party. Want to throw a great dinner party? Learn some tips for creating dinner-party ambience. If you'd like to throw a huge party for up to 75 of your closest gal pals, the book "Do It for Less! Parties" by Denise Vivaldo has nine complete menus, shows you how to do quantities of 12, 25, 50 and 75 for each recipe, and 21 charts for estimating quantities needed for everything from dining tables to alcohol.
If you'd prefer to keep things small and simple, consider a visit to an upscale grocer for ready-made appetizers. Whole Foods Market, for example, has a private-label line of frozen appetizers that includes chicken wings, crab Rangoon, a dim sum collection, salmon puffs and vegetable spring rolls.
Getting to know you. Do you have friends who hog the conversation? Find ways to spread the chat around. The book "4,000 Questions for Getting to Know Anyone and Everyone" contains queries that will keep the dialogue going into the wee hours. Consider these questions: "What, more than anything, makes you angry?" "Who were your childhood idols?" "What kind of leader are you most inclined to follow?"
Here's another conversation starter:
"Each woman should write down, anonymously, something no one else could possibly know about her," says Nancy B. Irwin, therapeutic hypnotist, columnist and speaker. "Put them in a pot, draw one at a time, and try to guess who did what. Have prizes for the winners."
How about dessert and some "dish"?
"Have each woman bring her most decadent dessert and favorite photo and be prepared to tell all the details about it," suggests Irwin.
Games night. Board games can be educational. Author and tax expert Eva Rosenberg recommends "Rich Dad Poor Dad's Cashflow 101," a board game that teaches accounting, finance and investing. "It's an interesting way to learn about money and about yourself," Rosenberg says. "It will create all kinds of great conversations."
Board games can also be just plain fun. Plan a round of "Sex and the City" Trivia Game. "Every girl is sure to know most of the answers, and it will bring back fond memories of Carrie and Big's love affair," says Diann Valentine, owner of an events and wedding firm in Pasadena, Calif.
Sushi-loving women in sushi heaven. A group of women I know gathers once a month at a different sushi-buffet restaurant in the Seattle area to indulge in rows and rows of raw seafood and conversation. If your taste doesn't run to eating spicy octopus, fish cake soup and baby clam salad, take a vote to determine what kind of food would be acceptable. Steak night? Mexican night? Thai night? Let your taste buds be your guide.
Spa night. Hire a spa-party service to create a spa night in your home. Spa-addicts.com lists mobile spas from New York to Los Angeles. These companies provide drinks, gourmet food, spa treatments and products. For example, Spa Chicks On-The-Go, a mobile-spa event company in New York, provide treatments such as massages, facials, manicures and pedicures — including spa robes, slippers and spa goodie bags.
Surprise night. Rosenberg once made a deal with two of her girlfriends. "We'd get together one night a month for a special ‘girls' night out.' Each month, one of us would be responsible for planning the evening." They agreed in advance to stay within a certain budget. "And we wouldn't tell anyone what it was, just pick them up and do it."
Her group of gal pals enjoyed dining at restaurants and attending magic clubs. The piece de resistance? An evening at Chippendales.
By Robin Dalmas
"Sisterhood is Powerful" proclaims a feminist book from the 1970s. If that's true, just think what would happen if every woman threw a party for all her girlfriends. Along with the obvious conversation, laughter and empathy, who knows what great new friendships might be forged — and what productive networking might be accomplished.
When it comes to all-women soirees, the sky's the limit. You can throw a traditional party with food and libation or engineer a more focused event. One woman threw a "Remember When You Were 10?" party and invited 50 women over to wear pajamas, eat s'mores and do crafts. More sophisticated parties can give women the opportunity to network for their careers, gain knowledge of accounting, finance and investing, or just relax with some pampering spa treatments in the home.
Traditional party. Want to throw a great dinner party? Learn some tips for creating dinner-party ambience. If you'd like to throw a huge party for up to 75 of your closest gal pals, the book "Do It for Less! Parties" by Denise Vivaldo has nine complete menus, shows you how to do quantities of 12, 25, 50 and 75 for each recipe, and 21 charts for estimating quantities needed for everything from dining tables to alcohol.
If you'd prefer to keep things small and simple, consider a visit to an upscale grocer for ready-made appetizers. Whole Foods Market, for example, has a private-label line of frozen appetizers that includes chicken wings, crab Rangoon, a dim sum collection, salmon puffs and vegetable spring rolls.
Getting to know you. Do you have friends who hog the conversation? Find ways to spread the chat around. The book "4,000 Questions for Getting to Know Anyone and Everyone" contains queries that will keep the dialogue going into the wee hours. Consider these questions: "What, more than anything, makes you angry?" "Who were your childhood idols?" "What kind of leader are you most inclined to follow?"
Here's another conversation starter:
"Each woman should write down, anonymously, something no one else could possibly know about her," says Nancy B. Irwin, therapeutic hypnotist, columnist and speaker. "Put them in a pot, draw one at a time, and try to guess who did what. Have prizes for the winners."
How about dessert and some "dish"?
"Have each woman bring her most decadent dessert and favorite photo and be prepared to tell all the details about it," suggests Irwin.
Games night. Board games can be educational. Author and tax expert Eva Rosenberg recommends "Rich Dad Poor Dad's Cashflow 101," a board game that teaches accounting, finance and investing. "It's an interesting way to learn about money and about yourself," Rosenberg says. "It will create all kinds of great conversations."
Board games can also be just plain fun. Plan a round of "Sex and the City" Trivia Game. "Every girl is sure to know most of the answers, and it will bring back fond memories of Carrie and Big's love affair," says Diann Valentine, owner of an events and wedding firm in Pasadena, Calif.
Sushi-loving women in sushi heaven. A group of women I know gathers once a month at a different sushi-buffet restaurant in the Seattle area to indulge in rows and rows of raw seafood and conversation. If your taste doesn't run to eating spicy octopus, fish cake soup and baby clam salad, take a vote to determine what kind of food would be acceptable. Steak night? Mexican night? Thai night? Let your taste buds be your guide.
Spa night. Hire a spa-party service to create a spa night in your home. Spa-addicts.com lists mobile spas from New York to Los Angeles. These companies provide drinks, gourmet food, spa treatments and products. For example, Spa Chicks On-The-Go, a mobile-spa event company in New York, provide treatments such as massages, facials, manicures and pedicures — including spa robes, slippers and spa goodie bags.
Surprise night. Rosenberg once made a deal with two of her girlfriends. "We'd get together one night a month for a special ‘girls' night out.' Each month, one of us would be responsible for planning the evening." They agreed in advance to stay within a certain budget. "And we wouldn't tell anyone what it was, just pick them up and do it."
Her group of gal pals enjoyed dining at restaurants and attending magic clubs. The piece de resistance? An evening at Chippendales.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Kids love Florida
"Mommmm....I'm bored...there's nothing to do."
There is a new book that is a family travel guide to exploring "kid-tested" places in Florida. It's called "Kids Love Florida."
The site has the books discounted and they offer many easy solutions to concerns traveling with kids ages 2-15.
There is a new book that is a family travel guide to exploring "kid-tested" places in Florida. It's called "Kids Love Florida."
The site has the books discounted and they offer many easy solutions to concerns traveling with kids ages 2-15.
Fun stuff to do
There is so much for you and your family to do right in South Florida. Check out our waterparks.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Military spouses
Military Spouse Day -
May 9, 2008: Proclamation by President of United States of America
Military spouses embody the courage, nobility of duty, and love of country that inspire every American. On Military Spouse Day, we pay tribute to the husbands and wives who support their spouses in America's Armed Forces during times of war and peace.
The legacy of military spouses began when colonial Americans were fighting for independence. Martha Washington boosted the morale of her husband's troops by visiting battlefields and tending to the wounded. Since then, members of our Armed Forces have served our Nation accompanied by the steadfast love and support of their spouses and families.
While our men and women in uniform are protecting our country's founding ideals of liberty, democracy, and justice, their spouses live with uncommon challenges, endure sleepless nights, and spend long periods raising children alone. Many military spouses are also committed volunteers, serving other military families and local communities. Our Nation benefits from the sacrifices of our military families, and we are inspired by their courage, strength, and leadership.
On Military Spouse Day and throughout the year, we honor the commitment spouses have made to freedom's cause. To learn about ways to support our troops and their spouses and families, I encourage all Americans to visit www.americasupportsyou.mil.
Now, therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2008, as Military Spouse Day. call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities and by expressing their gratitude to the husbands and wives of those serving in the United States Armed Forces.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.
GEORGE W. BUSH
May 9, 2008: Proclamation by President of United States of America
Military spouses embody the courage, nobility of duty, and love of country that inspire every American. On Military Spouse Day, we pay tribute to the husbands and wives who support their spouses in America's Armed Forces during times of war and peace.
The legacy of military spouses began when colonial Americans were fighting for independence. Martha Washington boosted the morale of her husband's troops by visiting battlefields and tending to the wounded. Since then, members of our Armed Forces have served our Nation accompanied by the steadfast love and support of their spouses and families.
While our men and women in uniform are protecting our country's founding ideals of liberty, democracy, and justice, their spouses live with uncommon challenges, endure sleepless nights, and spend long periods raising children alone. Many military spouses are also committed volunteers, serving other military families and local communities. Our Nation benefits from the sacrifices of our military families, and we are inspired by their courage, strength, and leadership.
On Military Spouse Day and throughout the year, we honor the commitment spouses have made to freedom's cause. To learn about ways to support our troops and their spouses and families, I encourage all Americans to visit www.americasupportsyou.mil.
Now, therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 9, 2008, as Military Spouse Day. call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities and by expressing their gratitude to the husbands and wives of those serving in the United States Armed Forces.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.
GEORGE W. BUSH
Mom's best advice
Don't be in a hurry to grow up, your time will come
Love many Trust few
Take care of your pennies, your dollars will take care of themselves
Always paddle your own canoe
Always wear lipstick, even if you’re just going to HEB!
Respect your loved ones, respect others but above all respect yourself
Only God can judge, be nice to everyone and smile
Choose a job that you will love and enjoy for the rest of your life, not for the money
If you’re going to do something, do it right and with your entire heart
Put yourself first because no one else will
Never forget where you came from
Wait until you are married to have sex
You had a life before him - and you'll have a life after him. Get rid of that zero and get yourself a hero
Never do or say anything you wouldn't want to see on the front page of the local newspaper
It's always better to be friends, before you become lovers
You are a lady. Always behave like one, always look like one, always speak like one and you will see that you will always be treated like one
Never allow anyone the power to make you feel bad about yourself
Puppy love is but for a second ... Lust if for but a minute ... But Love is forever
Marriage is not only about happy days and sunshine. It is about the good and bad, sunshine and rain. Enjoying the rainbows is what makes a marriage
Love many Trust few
Take care of your pennies, your dollars will take care of themselves
Always paddle your own canoe
Always wear lipstick, even if you’re just going to HEB!
Respect your loved ones, respect others but above all respect yourself
Only God can judge, be nice to everyone and smile
Choose a job that you will love and enjoy for the rest of your life, not for the money
If you’re going to do something, do it right and with your entire heart
Put yourself first because no one else will
Never forget where you came from
Wait until you are married to have sex
You had a life before him - and you'll have a life after him. Get rid of that zero and get yourself a hero
Never do or say anything you wouldn't want to see on the front page of the local newspaper
It's always better to be friends, before you become lovers
You are a lady. Always behave like one, always look like one, always speak like one and you will see that you will always be treated like one
Never allow anyone the power to make you feel bad about yourself
Puppy love is but for a second ... Lust if for but a minute ... But Love is forever
Marriage is not only about happy days and sunshine. It is about the good and bad, sunshine and rain. Enjoying the rainbows is what makes a marriage
Step-mothers day
What are the rules about step-mothers and ex mother-in- laws on mother’s day?
Divorce360.com has 10 etiquette tips for the modern day divorced family
Flowers picked from the garden, a breakfast of peanut butter and jelly served bedside....ahhhh, it’s mother’s day again. But now, along with the sticky kisses and homemade cards, you have to deal with a stickier issue - your kids step-mom and your ex mother-in-law….on the same day? Check out the new rules and etiquette on how to handle, survive and thrive this mother’s day.
· A significant number of children will spend this Mother's Day, May 11, without both biological parents. According to a study by the National Marriage Project at Rutgers University, only 63 percent of American children grow up with both parents — the lowest figure in the Western world.
· In the old days, etiquette rules included which side of the plate you put your fork on and not burping at the table. Today, they include navigating divorcing parents, whether to get a stepmom a gift and what happens when Mother's Day falls on the weekend Dad is supposed to have the kids. Situations like these call for a new understanding of good manners.
· "If the kids come home and say we got this great present for the step mom and mom didn't realize the relationship was there, it can be very political and open up some new wounds," said Carolyn Ellis, author of the New York Times bestseller "Thrive After Divorce". If Dad's really moved on and re-married, dealing with the stepmom can require all the manners you've got.
· "If children have a stepmom and a biological mother who are actively involved in parenting, Mother's Day can be problem, said Dr. Judith Wallerstein, who has spent 30 years studying the effects of divorce on families. “There's no question the priority should be given to the biological mother. On other hand, the stepmom may be very devoted and would be in considerable pain if she's ignored. Meanwhile, there's considerable pain for the mother if the stepmother shares the day.”
· "Grandmothers are often even more important after divorce." So, respect her relationship with your children by not standing in the way if your children want to honor her on Mother's Day. She may be your ex mother-in-law, but she is still the grandmother of your children,” notes Dr. Wallerstein, cautions.
Divorce360.com has 10 etiquette tips for the modern day divorced family
Flowers picked from the garden, a breakfast of peanut butter and jelly served bedside....ahhhh, it’s mother’s day again. But now, along with the sticky kisses and homemade cards, you have to deal with a stickier issue - your kids step-mom and your ex mother-in-law….on the same day? Check out the new rules and etiquette on how to handle, survive and thrive this mother’s day.
· A significant number of children will spend this Mother's Day, May 11, without both biological parents. According to a study by the National Marriage Project at Rutgers University, only 63 percent of American children grow up with both parents — the lowest figure in the Western world.
· In the old days, etiquette rules included which side of the plate you put your fork on and not burping at the table. Today, they include navigating divorcing parents, whether to get a stepmom a gift and what happens when Mother's Day falls on the weekend Dad is supposed to have the kids. Situations like these call for a new understanding of good manners.
· "If the kids come home and say we got this great present for the step mom and mom didn't realize the relationship was there, it can be very political and open up some new wounds," said Carolyn Ellis, author of the New York Times bestseller "Thrive After Divorce". If Dad's really moved on and re-married, dealing with the stepmom can require all the manners you've got.
· "If children have a stepmom and a biological mother who are actively involved in parenting, Mother's Day can be problem, said Dr. Judith Wallerstein, who has spent 30 years studying the effects of divorce on families. “There's no question the priority should be given to the biological mother. On other hand, the stepmom may be very devoted and would be in considerable pain if she's ignored. Meanwhile, there's considerable pain for the mother if the stepmother shares the day.”
· "Grandmothers are often even more important after divorce." So, respect her relationship with your children by not standing in the way if your children want to honor her on Mother's Day. She may be your ex mother-in-law, but she is still the grandmother of your children,” notes Dr. Wallerstein, cautions.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Bond with teens
8 ways to bond with your teen.
Hanging out with the parents doesn't usually top a typical teenager's to-do list. It's just not, well, cool, according to most teens. But Anne Marie Gabriel, a holistic psychotherapist at SANA Healthy Living in Toronto, says teens are seeking parental guidance and direction, and it's up to the parent to make the first move. "The rebuffing is peer pressure," explains Gabriel. "They're looking for guidance because they have so many inputs [from friends, media, boyfriends, girlfriends]." The key is to strike a balance between being a fun parent and the disciplinarian and provider.
With this in mind, here are some ways to get the bonding underway.
1. Ask your teen to teach you how to produce an online photo gallery.
Most teens today were raised in the digital age and are whizzes when it comes to anything technological. Why not bond over lessons on how to make a digital photo gallery or a family web page or blog?
2. Read the same book or join a book club.
Being able to discuss a book you're reading is an intellectual and intimate pursuit. The bonding is even happening when you are reading alone, as the anticipation of meeting and discussing your thoughts about the book creates an instant connection.
3. Take a mini road trip and let them drive.
This is perfect for the teen with a new driver's license. The destination could be anywhere, but venturing out to visit the family homestead or another fun spot of your teen's choosing would fit the bill for an afternoon of bonding. It could be as simple as regular practice sessions in the country or on city streets so that your son or daughter can perfect his or her driving skills. Buckle up!
4. Go to the spa.
A weekend getaway or a day spa treatment provides the necessary elements of relaxation and pampering to put mom and daughter into the right frame of mind for serious bonding. Even dads and sons can treat themselves to some pampering at a spa. How does a massage after a round of golf grab you?
5. Consider a cycling holiday or camping trip.
There's nothing like a little survival out in the woods or a long-distance cycling adventure to kick-start some heart-to-heart quality time with your teen. No television set, sharing stories around the campfire and sleeping under the stars is a prescription for bonding at its best.
6. Make a family scrapbook.
There's nothing like poring over old photos, birthday cards and concert tickets to kick the nostalgia level into high gear. This is a surefire way to learn more about teens and for them to learn a lot about you when you were their age. Be honest and don't be afraid to reveal the real you.
7. Bake cookies.
This is probably the oldest bonding technique in the book, next to fishing and taking the dog for a walk. Choosing recipes and planning for the baking session is nearly as much fun as the baking itself. And don't forget to lick the bowl!
8. Join a gym or go to a yoga retreat.
Not only will having a fitness buddy for emotional and inspirational support keep you both motivated to attend classes, but it will ensure a regular and long-lasting commitment to building a close relationship. Think of all the shopping you can do afterward.
Hanging out with the parents doesn't usually top a typical teenager's to-do list. It's just not, well, cool, according to most teens. But Anne Marie Gabriel, a holistic psychotherapist at SANA Healthy Living in Toronto, says teens are seeking parental guidance and direction, and it's up to the parent to make the first move. "The rebuffing is peer pressure," explains Gabriel. "They're looking for guidance because they have so many inputs [from friends, media, boyfriends, girlfriends]." The key is to strike a balance between being a fun parent and the disciplinarian and provider.
With this in mind, here are some ways to get the bonding underway.
1. Ask your teen to teach you how to produce an online photo gallery.
Most teens today were raised in the digital age and are whizzes when it comes to anything technological. Why not bond over lessons on how to make a digital photo gallery or a family web page or blog?
2. Read the same book or join a book club.
Being able to discuss a book you're reading is an intellectual and intimate pursuit. The bonding is even happening when you are reading alone, as the anticipation of meeting and discussing your thoughts about the book creates an instant connection.
3. Take a mini road trip and let them drive.
This is perfect for the teen with a new driver's license. The destination could be anywhere, but venturing out to visit the family homestead or another fun spot of your teen's choosing would fit the bill for an afternoon of bonding. It could be as simple as regular practice sessions in the country or on city streets so that your son or daughter can perfect his or her driving skills. Buckle up!
4. Go to the spa.
A weekend getaway or a day spa treatment provides the necessary elements of relaxation and pampering to put mom and daughter into the right frame of mind for serious bonding. Even dads and sons can treat themselves to some pampering at a spa. How does a massage after a round of golf grab you?
5. Consider a cycling holiday or camping trip.
There's nothing like a little survival out in the woods or a long-distance cycling adventure to kick-start some heart-to-heart quality time with your teen. No television set, sharing stories around the campfire and sleeping under the stars is a prescription for bonding at its best.
6. Make a family scrapbook.
There's nothing like poring over old photos, birthday cards and concert tickets to kick the nostalgia level into high gear. This is a surefire way to learn more about teens and for them to learn a lot about you when you were their age. Be honest and don't be afraid to reveal the real you.
7. Bake cookies.
This is probably the oldest bonding technique in the book, next to fishing and taking the dog for a walk. Choosing recipes and planning for the baking session is nearly as much fun as the baking itself. And don't forget to lick the bowl!
8. Join a gym or go to a yoga retreat.
Not only will having a fitness buddy for emotional and inspirational support keep you both motivated to attend classes, but it will ensure a regular and long-lasting commitment to building a close relationship. Think of all the shopping you can do afterward.
What mom wants
What Moms Really Want for Mothers Day
By Dawn Hamm
Every year my boys ask me what I want for mothers day and every year I tell them the same thing, all I want is to sleep in and have a quite peaceful day, no kids fighting no laundry to do or meal to make just a nice day and if I want to lay in bed all day let me! Im not saying gifts aren't nice but I don't need more knickknacks or bottles of bubble bath, I'm good til next Christmas thanks. Well this is what I found that most women want and no its not diamonds but hey we wont complain if they're given.
Hallmark did a survey recently and this is what women said they wanted for Mother's Day, Something she wants but wouldn't buy for herself, yes guys you have to figure that one out by your selves! A day of no cooking or chores, pampering being waited on hand foot and while your at it a nice massage. A Mothers day card that she will keep for years and add to her collection.
Other women have said that they would love to have breakfast in bed that they didn't have to make or supervise. A day just spent lying in bed reading or watching tv, that's right guys give her the remote! Hey it's just for a day!
Most women want the same thing a nice peaceful relaxing day with no kid's fighting and the sun to be shining.
Here are some tips on making Mom's special day something she will remember for along time maybe even long enough that she wont yell at you the next time you think its funny to see if you can jump off the roof and land in the pool. But you didn't and she had to rush you to the ER for a broken arm..
Let mom sleep in if you don't see her, think of it as a good thing
Make mom an easy breakfast in bed toast/english muffin and coffee/tea will do
Clean your room
Ask her if there's anything you can get for her more coffee, a book the remote etc..
Let her take a HOT shower and don't knock on the door asking to use the bathroom.
Have Dad take you to the park
Bring home moms favorite take out for lunch
Sit at the dining room table and have lunch and not fight with your brother/sister
This is a great time to give mom her gifts/cards
Your half way there
Clean up lunch mess
Tell her to go take a nap
If the phone rings don't bother her, telemarkerts will call back tomorrow
Remind dad that you have a project due tomorrow and you haven't even gotten started and you need stuff from the store for it.
Stop fighting with you brother/sister
Clean house mom loves you and will know you tried
Make her favorite meal for dinner or order out if you have to, she will understand
Anything chocolate for dessert is always a winner
And last but not least tell her that she's the best mom and you wouldn't trade her even for that new game system that's coming out in a few months.
By Dawn Hamm
Every year my boys ask me what I want for mothers day and every year I tell them the same thing, all I want is to sleep in and have a quite peaceful day, no kids fighting no laundry to do or meal to make just a nice day and if I want to lay in bed all day let me! Im not saying gifts aren't nice but I don't need more knickknacks or bottles of bubble bath, I'm good til next Christmas thanks. Well this is what I found that most women want and no its not diamonds but hey we wont complain if they're given.
Hallmark did a survey recently and this is what women said they wanted for Mother's Day, Something she wants but wouldn't buy for herself, yes guys you have to figure that one out by your selves! A day of no cooking or chores, pampering being waited on hand foot and while your at it a nice massage. A Mothers day card that she will keep for years and add to her collection.
Other women have said that they would love to have breakfast in bed that they didn't have to make or supervise. A day just spent lying in bed reading or watching tv, that's right guys give her the remote! Hey it's just for a day!
Most women want the same thing a nice peaceful relaxing day with no kid's fighting and the sun to be shining.
Here are some tips on making Mom's special day something she will remember for along time maybe even long enough that she wont yell at you the next time you think its funny to see if you can jump off the roof and land in the pool. But you didn't and she had to rush you to the ER for a broken arm..
Let mom sleep in if you don't see her, think of it as a good thing
Make mom an easy breakfast in bed toast/english muffin and coffee/tea will do
Clean your room
Ask her if there's anything you can get for her more coffee, a book the remote etc..
Let her take a HOT shower and don't knock on the door asking to use the bathroom.
Have Dad take you to the park
Bring home moms favorite take out for lunch
Sit at the dining room table and have lunch and not fight with your brother/sister
This is a great time to give mom her gifts/cards
Your half way there
Clean up lunch mess
Tell her to go take a nap
If the phone rings don't bother her, telemarkerts will call back tomorrow
Remind dad that you have a project due tomorrow and you haven't even gotten started and you need stuff from the store for it.
Stop fighting with you brother/sister
Clean house mom loves you and will know you tried
Make her favorite meal for dinner or order out if you have to, she will understand
Anything chocolate for dessert is always a winner
And last but not least tell her that she's the best mom and you wouldn't trade her even for that new game system that's coming out in a few months.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
A kid for mom
Mom deserves a new kid for Mother’s Day. And while he may not look like anyone else in the family, and he might drool a bit, he certainly won’t spend all day in front of the TV and he’ll always be on time for dinner.
Food For The Poor, a Florida-based nonprofit is offering special gifts for that special mom – including goats galore (kids), bundles of baby chicks, plenty of pigs, marching bands, fruit trees, rice and beans, and a whole lot more.
Food For The Poor, a Florida-based nonprofit is offering special gifts for that special mom – including goats galore (kids), bundles of baby chicks, plenty of pigs, marching bands, fruit trees, rice and beans, and a whole lot more.
Thank a teacher
A Tribute of Thanks to Teachers
The Nation's Largest Teacher Thank-You Card project is an effort to collect thousands of thank-you messages to teachers from individuals across the nation.
Add your teacher to the card.
The Nation's Largest Teacher Thank-You Card project is an effort to collect thousands of thank-you messages to teachers from individuals across the nation.
Add your teacher to the card.
Have an apple
The National Parent Teacher Association started Teacher Appreciation Week in 1984 to recognize teachers who dedicate their skills and abilities to educate our children. This week, May 5 through May 9 is Teacher Appreciation Week.
There is an actual day called Teacher Appreciation Day. According to the National Education Association, the origins of National Teacher Day are murky. Around 1944 Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodbridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day. The date this year for Teacher Appreciation Day is Tuesday, May 6, 2008.
A simple way to express your gratitude is to send e-mails to teachers expressing your appreciation for sharing their gift of teaching with the children of our community.
Learn more about this special day.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
There is an actual day called Teacher Appreciation Day. According to the National Education Association, the origins of National Teacher Day are murky. Around 1944 Arkansas teacher Mattye Whyte Woodridge began corresponding with political and education leaders about the need for a national day to honor teachers. Woodbridge wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, who in 1953 persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day. The date this year for Teacher Appreciation Day is Tuesday, May 6, 2008.
A simple way to express your gratitude is to send e-mails to teachers expressing your appreciation for sharing their gift of teaching with the children of our community.
Learn more about this special day.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
Monday, May 5, 2008
Mr. mom
Six smart steps for potential stay-at-home dads
How fathers can fully understand their choice and prepare for consequences.
There are many routes to work-family balance. For some, it’s a matter of finding a workplace that allows you to put family first without sacrificing a paycheck. For others, going the at-home route is the most attractive option.
Becoming an at-home dad is as easy as telling your boss “I quit,” but it should be approached like any other life change — with a good deal of clear-headed consideration. There are six steps that all would-be at-home dads (and their wives) should take to fully understand their choice and prepare for the consequences:
Step one: Find the goalposts
Staying home is a radical change for any working parent — male or female — and families that decide to have dad stay home need to articulate why they’ve made that decision. The responsibility of the at-home parent needs to be well laid-out, too: what are the child-rearing expectations? The cooking/cleaning/housework expectations? How do family roles change during the weekend? At night? Every family comes up with different answers to those questions, but every family needs to ask them.
Step two: Be aware of the implications
Along with death and taxes, at-home fathers can be certain they’ll have to fend off stereotypes and correct the general confusion that surrounds at-home fatherhood. The harkens back to step one: a father who understands clearly what he is doing at home and why can do a far better job of explaining his choice than a parent who elected to stay home without examining why.
Step three: Run the numbers
Having a parent stay home has huge economic consequences, and it is vital that every family ready to make the plunge reviews their finances. That means a brutally honest, point-by-point monthly budget that shows what gets cut when dad’s salary disappears. Of course, such a budget can also be a comforting document. Cutting out spending on daycare, commuting, work clothes and takeout dinners can run more than $20,000 a year for a family of four, which can takes some of the fiscal sting out of staying home.
Step four: Build in some outs
At-home fatherhood can easily become a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week job, but like any endeavor, time away from the “workplace,” is enormously valuable. Any at-home parent should give themselves a chance to recharge their batteries away from the kids: enroll in a class at a local college, find a flexible part-time job, focus on a particular hobby. Those efforts carry both the short-term benefits of renewed vigor as well as long-term benefits should at-home fathers begin to transfer back to the workforce.
Step five: Consider an exit plan
Very few at-home fathers stay out of the job market forever, and coming up with a strategy for when — and how — to reenter the workforce can help both blunt the impact of leaving a paid job as well as aid in transitioning out of the home years down the line.
Step six: Shoot for greatness
It is fundamental truth that you get out of any effort what you put into it, and parenthood is no different. Waking up every day and shooting to be the best possible dad doesn’t only give the children the richest possible environment, it gives fathers a great deal of satisfaction. A dad who parks their child in front of the TV all day may be less exhausted at day’s end than an engaged dad, but they’re also less fulfilled. There’s much to be said for taking pride in your work, whether it be forging widgets or forging young minds.
How fathers can fully understand their choice and prepare for consequences.
There are many routes to work-family balance. For some, it’s a matter of finding a workplace that allows you to put family first without sacrificing a paycheck. For others, going the at-home route is the most attractive option.
Becoming an at-home dad is as easy as telling your boss “I quit,” but it should be approached like any other life change — with a good deal of clear-headed consideration. There are six steps that all would-be at-home dads (and their wives) should take to fully understand their choice and prepare for the consequences:
Step one: Find the goalposts
Staying home is a radical change for any working parent — male or female — and families that decide to have dad stay home need to articulate why they’ve made that decision. The responsibility of the at-home parent needs to be well laid-out, too: what are the child-rearing expectations? The cooking/cleaning/housework expectations? How do family roles change during the weekend? At night? Every family comes up with different answers to those questions, but every family needs to ask them.
Step two: Be aware of the implications
Along with death and taxes, at-home fathers can be certain they’ll have to fend off stereotypes and correct the general confusion that surrounds at-home fatherhood. The harkens back to step one: a father who understands clearly what he is doing at home and why can do a far better job of explaining his choice than a parent who elected to stay home without examining why.
Step three: Run the numbers
Having a parent stay home has huge economic consequences, and it is vital that every family ready to make the plunge reviews their finances. That means a brutally honest, point-by-point monthly budget that shows what gets cut when dad’s salary disappears. Of course, such a budget can also be a comforting document. Cutting out spending on daycare, commuting, work clothes and takeout dinners can run more than $20,000 a year for a family of four, which can takes some of the fiscal sting out of staying home.
Step four: Build in some outs
At-home fatherhood can easily become a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week job, but like any endeavor, time away from the “workplace,” is enormously valuable. Any at-home parent should give themselves a chance to recharge their batteries away from the kids: enroll in a class at a local college, find a flexible part-time job, focus on a particular hobby. Those efforts carry both the short-term benefits of renewed vigor as well as long-term benefits should at-home fathers begin to transfer back to the workforce.
Step five: Consider an exit plan
Very few at-home fathers stay out of the job market forever, and coming up with a strategy for when — and how — to reenter the workforce can help both blunt the impact of leaving a paid job as well as aid in transitioning out of the home years down the line.
Step six: Shoot for greatness
It is fundamental truth that you get out of any effort what you put into it, and parenthood is no different. Waking up every day and shooting to be the best possible dad doesn’t only give the children the richest possible environment, it gives fathers a great deal of satisfaction. A dad who parks their child in front of the TV all day may be less exhausted at day’s end than an engaged dad, but they’re also less fulfilled. There’s much to be said for taking pride in your work, whether it be forging widgets or forging young minds.
Gifts for mom
Mother's Day is Sunday. Are you stumped on what to get her? Here is a site with gift ideas for every kind of mom. Stylish mom, gardening mom, eco mom gadget mom and more.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Avorita
Ingredients
2 avocados, seeded and peeled 6 ounces tequila 6 ounces fresh lime juice 2 ounces Triple Sec 1/2 cup sugar 3 cups crushed ice
Directions:
Place all ingredients in a blender and pulse on high speed for 30 seconds. Blend for an additional 30 seconds until all ingredients are incorporated. Pour into a salt-rimmed margarita glass.
Drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. MUST BE 21 TO PARTICIPATE.
Cheers!
2 avocados, seeded and peeled 6 ounces tequila 6 ounces fresh lime juice 2 ounces Triple Sec 1/2 cup sugar 3 cups crushed ice
Directions:
Place all ingredients in a blender and pulse on high speed for 30 seconds. Blend for an additional 30 seconds until all ingredients are incorporated. Pour into a salt-rimmed margarita glass.
Drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive. MUST BE 21 TO PARTICIPATE.
Cheers!
Sow your oats
SINGLE GIRL THINGS TO DO BEFORE MARRIAGE
(Cosmopolitan)
Date a guy who's totally wrong for you just because he has amazing abs. So what if he's five years younger and your polar opposite? The joy of running your hands across his six-pack is a perfectly legitimate reason to go out with him.
Collect at least six country stamps on your passport, including one from a place that until recently you didn't even know existed. Yes, it's fun to travel with your man, but you also have to have some solo adventures under your belt before you start sharing your life with him 100 percent.
Embrace feminine decor. Don't go so far as to paint the walls pink -- that'll freak out any guy who sets foot in your place -- but stock up on stuff that appeals to your girlie side. When you're building a nest with him, you'll have to compromise on furniture and accessories, so pile on cute throw pillows while the decorating is all up to you (because here's a tip: Guys hate the things).Wear a hip, fabulous ring on your left hand. Once you have an engagement band, you won't want anything detracting attention from the ring.
Take advantage of the whole bed. You have the rest of your life to stick to "your" side when you sleep next to your man. Right now, place your pillow smack-dab in the center and make like a starfish.
Spend an embarrassing amount of money on a designer bag you love or heels that make you feel incredibly sexy. Chances are, when you have a joint account with your hubby, he's not going to get why a purse might be worth the GDP of a small country.
Learn how to change a tire and work a drill. It's easy to relegate all those "guy" tasks to your man (and you totally should enlist his help), but there's a sense of power that comes with being able to fix something yourself.
Slip one of those furry covers on the toilet. Once it's there, he'll have to accept it (and psst, they make it impossible for men to leave the seat up).
Throw blowout bashes. Sure, it's nice to have a mellow get-together with your girlfriends, but that shouldn't be the extent of your social life. Before settling down, let your wild side reign.
Get a grip on your dough. Sign up for a retirement plan and invest extra income in stocks or CD accounts. Take charge of your own cash flow before merging moola with your guy.
Have your dad take you out to dinner as often as possible. The reasons: It's great bonding time, and his open-wallet generosity will dry up once you're hitched. Face it: Your reception is the last meal that'll be his treat.
Want a cat? Buy it now. Call it Snowflake. Let it sleep next to you in bed. If you wait to get a pet with your betrothed, it will end up being a big, slobbering Lab called Bif.
If all you feel like eating for dinner is ice cream and diet soda, buy a cone and pop a Coke. When you and The Mister mangia together all the time, you'll be less likely to indulge those bizarre - but oh-so-satisfying - cravings.
Use tons of hot water in the a.m.
Take your celeb crush to the max. Plaster a poster of Ryan Gosling in your hallway, and set your computer wallpaper to a topless shot of him.
Plan your fantasy wedding. Now's the time to let your imagination roam - rip pictures of dresses from magazines, size up ceremony venues, and try on some rocks at the jewelry store. This stuff wigs guys out if they witness it, so get it out of your system now.
Start a pleasure ritual that a change in your relationship status can't disturb. Regularly treat yourself to something you love, whether it's a manicure, yoga classes at the fanciest studio in town, or a superrelaxing massage.
Set up your home in a way that fits your needs. Maybe keeping the coffee machine in the bathroom so you can get your caffeine boost while you put on makeup in the morning works for you. Until you have to deal with someone else weighing in on your unusual arrangement, customize.
(Cosmopolitan)
Date a guy who's totally wrong for you just because he has amazing abs. So what if he's five years younger and your polar opposite? The joy of running your hands across his six-pack is a perfectly legitimate reason to go out with him.
Collect at least six country stamps on your passport, including one from a place that until recently you didn't even know existed. Yes, it's fun to travel with your man, but you also have to have some solo adventures under your belt before you start sharing your life with him 100 percent.
Embrace feminine decor. Don't go so far as to paint the walls pink -- that'll freak out any guy who sets foot in your place -- but stock up on stuff that appeals to your girlie side. When you're building a nest with him, you'll have to compromise on furniture and accessories, so pile on cute throw pillows while the decorating is all up to you (because here's a tip: Guys hate the things).Wear a hip, fabulous ring on your left hand. Once you have an engagement band, you won't want anything detracting attention from the ring.
Take advantage of the whole bed. You have the rest of your life to stick to "your" side when you sleep next to your man. Right now, place your pillow smack-dab in the center and make like a starfish.
Spend an embarrassing amount of money on a designer bag you love or heels that make you feel incredibly sexy. Chances are, when you have a joint account with your hubby, he's not going to get why a purse might be worth the GDP of a small country.
Learn how to change a tire and work a drill. It's easy to relegate all those "guy" tasks to your man (and you totally should enlist his help), but there's a sense of power that comes with being able to fix something yourself.
Slip one of those furry covers on the toilet. Once it's there, he'll have to accept it (and psst, they make it impossible for men to leave the seat up).
Throw blowout bashes. Sure, it's nice to have a mellow get-together with your girlfriends, but that shouldn't be the extent of your social life. Before settling down, let your wild side reign.
Get a grip on your dough. Sign up for a retirement plan and invest extra income in stocks or CD accounts. Take charge of your own cash flow before merging moola with your guy.
Have your dad take you out to dinner as often as possible. The reasons: It's great bonding time, and his open-wallet generosity will dry up once you're hitched. Face it: Your reception is the last meal that'll be his treat.
Want a cat? Buy it now. Call it Snowflake. Let it sleep next to you in bed. If you wait to get a pet with your betrothed, it will end up being a big, slobbering Lab called Bif.
If all you feel like eating for dinner is ice cream and diet soda, buy a cone and pop a Coke. When you and The Mister mangia together all the time, you'll be less likely to indulge those bizarre - but oh-so-satisfying - cravings.
Use tons of hot water in the a.m.
Take your celeb crush to the max. Plaster a poster of Ryan Gosling in your hallway, and set your computer wallpaper to a topless shot of him.
Plan your fantasy wedding. Now's the time to let your imagination roam - rip pictures of dresses from magazines, size up ceremony venues, and try on some rocks at the jewelry store. This stuff wigs guys out if they witness it, so get it out of your system now.
Start a pleasure ritual that a change in your relationship status can't disturb. Regularly treat yourself to something you love, whether it's a manicure, yoga classes at the fanciest studio in town, or a superrelaxing massage.
Set up your home in a way that fits your needs. Maybe keeping the coffee machine in the bathroom so you can get your caffeine boost while you put on makeup in the morning works for you. Until you have to deal with someone else weighing in on your unusual arrangement, customize.
Amber Alert
State of Florida: Amber - An Amber Alert has been issued for 15 year old Morgan Amanda Leppert who was last seen on April 22nd in San Mateo, Fl near the Jacksonvillen area. Leppert is described as a white female with blonde hair, blue eyes, 114 pounds, and 5 feet 1 inches tall. She might be in the company of Toby Lowry, a 23 year old white male standing 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing 190 pounds with blonde hair and green eyes. They may be traveling in an aluminum silver 2003 Toyota Tacoma truck with a Florida Tag number of 193KLR.
Officials believe they may have fled the immediate area. Anyone with information is urged to call The Putnam County Sheriffs Dept at 1-386-329-0800 ot 1-888-FL MISSING.
Officials believe they may have fled the immediate area. Anyone with information is urged to call The Putnam County Sheriffs Dept at 1-386-329-0800 ot 1-888-FL MISSING.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Shoes that grow
Have a hard time keeping your growing child in shoes? Try shoes that grow with their feet.
They're called Inchworms!
They're called Inchworms!
Weekend fun for kids
The National Children's Theater Festival "Kids Fest" is this weekend.
The 2nd Annual All Kids included free arts festival on Watson Island. All Kids Included Community Festival Saturday, April 26, 2008
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Join us for a FREE exciting day devoted to kids of all abilities! The day will be filled with special performances, face painting, balloon artists, arts and crafts and more!
The Pompano Beach Seafood Festival is this weekend.
Casting call: MTV Teen Dreams Auditions.
Female singers 16 to 25 and their mothers to participate in the new reality series Dream Team on MTV. RSVP to teendreamcasting@gmail.com
9am to 4pm Sunday April 27th
Hard Rock Cafe-Biscayne
401 Biscayne Blvd. Downtown Miami
The 2nd Annual All Kids included free arts festival on Watson Island. All Kids Included Community Festival Saturday, April 26, 2008
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Join us for a FREE exciting day devoted to kids of all abilities! The day will be filled with special performances, face painting, balloon artists, arts and crafts and more!
The Pompano Beach Seafood Festival is this weekend.
Casting call: MTV Teen Dreams Auditions.
Female singers 16 to 25 and their mothers to participate in the new reality series Dream Team on MTV. RSVP to teendreamcasting@gmail.com
9am to 4pm Sunday April 27th
Hard Rock Cafe-Biscayne
401 Biscayne Blvd. Downtown Miami
Yucky is cool
Kids like everything yucky. Boogers, ear wax, burps and gas. It makes them giggle. So why not combine yucky and science and see what happens. Learning! Here is the yuckiest site on the internet. Check it out with your kids.
A couple of yucky but eduational books you may want to pick up. Everyone Poops and The Gas we Pass.
A couple of yucky but eduational books you may want to pick up. Everyone Poops and The Gas we Pass.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Paris BFF
Do you wanna be Paris Hilton's BFF?
BFF wannabes may set up profiles, start blogs, and post photos and video at ParisBFF.com, explaining why they should be one of the twenty contestants who battles it out for P.H’s companionship. Fans will vote on which online contestant make it onto the show.
Click here.
BFF wannabes may set up profiles, start blogs, and post photos and video at ParisBFF.com, explaining why they should be one of the twenty contestants who battles it out for P.H’s companionship. Fans will vote on which online contestant make it onto the show.
Click here.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Take 'em to work
The national date for the Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work® program is Thursday, April 24th!
It's About Teamwork! Working together with employers, employees, parents, mentors, and educators is key to creating a successful day that strengthens the connection between education and work and relationships between parents and their children.
The Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work Foundation, administrators of the program, is delighted to bring you another opportunity to create an enriching educational experience for our nation’s daughters and sons. For over 15 years, individuals, families and workplaces have joined in expanding opportunities and transforming the lives of millions of girls and boys both nationally and internationally.
Designed to be more than a career day, the Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work® program goes beyond the average “shadow” an adult. Exposing girls and boys to what a parent or mentor in their lives do during the work day is important, but showing them the value of their education, helping them discover the power and possibilities associated with a balanced work and family life, providing them an opportunity to share how they envision the future and begin steps toward their end goals in a hands-on and interactive environment is key to their achieving success. Each year, development of new interactive activities and partnerships will assist us in taking girls and boys to the future they dream of.
It's About Teamwork! Working together with employers, employees, parents, mentors, and educators is key to creating a successful day that strengthens the connection between education and work and relationships between parents and their children.
The Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work Foundation, administrators of the program, is delighted to bring you another opportunity to create an enriching educational experience for our nation’s daughters and sons. For over 15 years, individuals, families and workplaces have joined in expanding opportunities and transforming the lives of millions of girls and boys both nationally and internationally.
Designed to be more than a career day, the Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work® program goes beyond the average “shadow” an adult. Exposing girls and boys to what a parent or mentor in their lives do during the work day is important, but showing them the value of their education, helping them discover the power and possibilities associated with a balanced work and family life, providing them an opportunity to share how they envision the future and begin steps toward their end goals in a hands-on and interactive environment is key to their achieving success. Each year, development of new interactive activities and partnerships will assist us in taking girls and boys to the future they dream of.
Say thanks
Administrative Professionals Week – April 20-26, 2008
Administrative Professionals Day – Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Fact Sheet: Administrative Professionals 2008
A Large and Growing Profession …
· 4.2 million administrative assistants and secretaries, along with 1.4 million supervisors of office and administrative support staff, were employed in the United States in 2006 (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
· 476,000 administrative professionals are employed in Canada, including 365,670 secretaries, 26,390 executive assistants and 84,140 clerical supervisors (Statistics Canada).
· 362,000 administrative assistant and secretarial positions will be added in the U.S. between 2006 and 2016, representing growth of 8.5%. More than 82,000 office supervisor positions will be added. (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
A Hub of Information and Communication in the Office
Typical duties of today’s administrative professionals:
Prepare documents, correspondence and presentations
Produce spreadsheet reports
Coordinate multiple schedules and calendars
Maintain computer files, directories and databases
Plan meetings and special events
Purchase office equipment and supplies and work with vendors
Participate on project teams
Interview, orient and supervise other staff
Conduct Internet research
Salaries Are Rising …
· $37,240 - Average 2006 annual earnings of U.S. executive secretaries and administrative assistants (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
· 3.2% - Expected average increase in starting salaries for administrative professionals in 2008 (OfficeTeam 2008 Salary Guide).
Administrative Professionals Week (April 20-26, 2008)
· Administrative Professionals Week and Administrative Professionals Day (Wednesday, April 23, 2008) call attention to the important workplace role of administrative professionals. The 2008 Administrative Professionals Week theme is “Forward Moving.”
· Observed since 1952, Administrative Professionals Week is originated and solely sponsored by the International Association of Administrative Professionals.
· IAAP recommends that employers observe Administrative Professionals Week by providing education and training to administrative staff through seminars, continuing education and self-study materials.
IAAP is the world’s leading association for administrative professionals,with 600 chapters and more than 40,000 members and affiliates worldwide
Administrative Professionals Day – Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Fact Sheet: Administrative Professionals 2008
A Large and Growing Profession …
· 4.2 million administrative assistants and secretaries, along with 1.4 million supervisors of office and administrative support staff, were employed in the United States in 2006 (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
· 476,000 administrative professionals are employed in Canada, including 365,670 secretaries, 26,390 executive assistants and 84,140 clerical supervisors (Statistics Canada).
· 362,000 administrative assistant and secretarial positions will be added in the U.S. between 2006 and 2016, representing growth of 8.5%. More than 82,000 office supervisor positions will be added. (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
A Hub of Information and Communication in the Office
Typical duties of today’s administrative professionals:
Prepare documents, correspondence and presentations
Produce spreadsheet reports
Coordinate multiple schedules and calendars
Maintain computer files, directories and databases
Plan meetings and special events
Purchase office equipment and supplies and work with vendors
Participate on project teams
Interview, orient and supervise other staff
Conduct Internet research
Salaries Are Rising …
· $37,240 - Average 2006 annual earnings of U.S. executive secretaries and administrative assistants (U.S. Dept. of Labor).
· 3.2% - Expected average increase in starting salaries for administrative professionals in 2008 (OfficeTeam 2008 Salary Guide).
Administrative Professionals Week (April 20-26, 2008)
· Administrative Professionals Week and Administrative Professionals Day (Wednesday, April 23, 2008) call attention to the important workplace role of administrative professionals. The 2008 Administrative Professionals Week theme is “Forward Moving.”
· Observed since 1952, Administrative Professionals Week is originated and solely sponsored by the International Association of Administrative Professionals.
· IAAP recommends that employers observe Administrative Professionals Week by providing education and training to administrative staff through seminars, continuing education and self-study materials.
IAAP is the world’s leading association for administrative professionals,with 600 chapters and more than 40,000 members and affiliates worldwide
Cell phone uses
10 things you didn't know your phone could do
By Kent German, Senior editor, CNET Reviews
Everyone knows you can make calls and send messages with your cell phone, but even the simplest handsets have a variety of uses. You don't need to download extra applications or purchase any accessories to use these features; rather, they exist on your phone from the moment you take it out of the box. While cell phone junkies should see nothing new here, other users may find new ways to use their cell phone that they didn't know before.
Flashlight: Drop your keys in the dark, or perhaps you need to read a map on a rural road? If your camera phone has a flash you should be able to use it as an emergency flashlight. If you can find a "steady" setting in the flash menu, your flash will remain on until you turn it off. If there is no such setting, and your phone has a camcorder option, try activating your flash while recording a video. The flash will remain active for the duration of the shoot, though keep in mind some camera phones cap recording time at just a few seconds.
Voice recorder: Many phones have this feature, but you might be surprised at just how useful it can be. Let's say your short term memory is down to a few seconds. With your voice recorder, also called an audio recorder on some handsets, you can record short notes to yourself and play them back later. It can be a great way to remember an address or a few random facts, or to record a shopping list. What's more, some recorders allow you to save your important notes for posterity.
Camera and notes: Most people know that camera phones can be useful for car accidents or fighting parking tickets, but they also can be great for shopping as well. Say you're shopping for a new gadget and you want to take home a full list of the specs for the models you're considering. Instead of using a pen and paper, you can take a picture of the product's placard and then refer to it later. This method is also useful for remembering rambling or unintuitive product names.
Google search: If you're on a trip in an unfamiliar city and you have a burrito craving, your cell phone can be a much better tool than the Yellow Pages. Google offers a free service that delivers a variety of information through text message. By texting simple queries to 466453 (or "Google" on most devices), you can find the closest Mexican restaurant in addition to things like the current weather forecast or movie show times at local theaters. Texting the name of a restaurant will give you the address and phone number, which you can then call for information or reservations.
Send a voice message: There may be times where you want to send your friend a message that's too long to send by text. Or maybe it's after 11 p.m. and you don't want to disturb him with a phone call. Some phones allow you to send voice mails directly to another phone's voice mail without actually placing a phone call.
Bluetooth file transfers: Everyone knows about Bluetooth headsets, but Bluetooth has a long list of other uses. Previously some manufacturers and carriers restricted how Bluetooth was used on their phones, but most of those limitations no longer exist. Using Bluetooth, you can transfer photos and other files off your camera phone to another Bluetooth device. The process is exceedingly easy, and it's free since you won't have to use your carrier's messaging service.
Record calls: Some handsets allow you to record your conversations. This feature may be buried under an obscure menu, and it may record only for a limited time, but it works much better than trying to use any kind of external recording device. But before you start taking cues from Linda Tripp, it's important to remember that some states require you to notify the person that you're recording the conversation.
Organizer features: Every cell phone on the market has at least a couple of organizer features. The alarm clock is one of the most useful offerings, particularly when you're traveling, and most of the time your phone does not need to be on for the alarm to sound. Other features can include a calendar, a calculator, a notepad, a world clock, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and applications for converting currencies or units of measurement. But the best feature of all has to be the convenient tip calculator. You can punch in the total bill amount, calculate the tip, and divide the total cost by the number of people down to the last penny. Though it's not available in every cell phone, it can save a lot of drama at group dinners.
POP3 e-mail: If your phone has a Web browser, and the vast majority do, you can access POP3 e-mail accounts like Yahoo or Hotmail. The interface will be different than on a PC, and graphics may not render properly, but if you need to read an important e-mail while on the go, this is the way to do it. After opening your browser, just type in the correct link then enter your login and password as normal.
Ringtone composer: Many phones, particularly Sony Ericsson and Motorola models, allow you to compose your own ringtones. Not only does this allow you to add an extreme level of personalization to your phone, but you can avoid buying new ringtones from your carrier. You don't need to be musically gifted, but it can help.
By Kent German, Senior editor, CNET Reviews
Everyone knows you can make calls and send messages with your cell phone, but even the simplest handsets have a variety of uses. You don't need to download extra applications or purchase any accessories to use these features; rather, they exist on your phone from the moment you take it out of the box. While cell phone junkies should see nothing new here, other users may find new ways to use their cell phone that they didn't know before.
Flashlight: Drop your keys in the dark, or perhaps you need to read a map on a rural road? If your camera phone has a flash you should be able to use it as an emergency flashlight. If you can find a "steady" setting in the flash menu, your flash will remain on until you turn it off. If there is no such setting, and your phone has a camcorder option, try activating your flash while recording a video. The flash will remain active for the duration of the shoot, though keep in mind some camera phones cap recording time at just a few seconds.
Voice recorder: Many phones have this feature, but you might be surprised at just how useful it can be. Let's say your short term memory is down to a few seconds. With your voice recorder, also called an audio recorder on some handsets, you can record short notes to yourself and play them back later. It can be a great way to remember an address or a few random facts, or to record a shopping list. What's more, some recorders allow you to save your important notes for posterity.
Camera and notes: Most people know that camera phones can be useful for car accidents or fighting parking tickets, but they also can be great for shopping as well. Say you're shopping for a new gadget and you want to take home a full list of the specs for the models you're considering. Instead of using a pen and paper, you can take a picture of the product's placard and then refer to it later. This method is also useful for remembering rambling or unintuitive product names.
Google search: If you're on a trip in an unfamiliar city and you have a burrito craving, your cell phone can be a much better tool than the Yellow Pages. Google offers a free service that delivers a variety of information through text message. By texting simple queries to 466453 (or "Google" on most devices), you can find the closest Mexican restaurant in addition to things like the current weather forecast or movie show times at local theaters. Texting the name of a restaurant will give you the address and phone number, which you can then call for information or reservations.
Send a voice message: There may be times where you want to send your friend a message that's too long to send by text. Or maybe it's after 11 p.m. and you don't want to disturb him with a phone call. Some phones allow you to send voice mails directly to another phone's voice mail without actually placing a phone call.
Bluetooth file transfers: Everyone knows about Bluetooth headsets, but Bluetooth has a long list of other uses. Previously some manufacturers and carriers restricted how Bluetooth was used on their phones, but most of those limitations no longer exist. Using Bluetooth, you can transfer photos and other files off your camera phone to another Bluetooth device. The process is exceedingly easy, and it's free since you won't have to use your carrier's messaging service.
Record calls: Some handsets allow you to record your conversations. This feature may be buried under an obscure menu, and it may record only for a limited time, but it works much better than trying to use any kind of external recording device. But before you start taking cues from Linda Tripp, it's important to remember that some states require you to notify the person that you're recording the conversation.
Organizer features: Every cell phone on the market has at least a couple of organizer features. The alarm clock is one of the most useful offerings, particularly when you're traveling, and most of the time your phone does not need to be on for the alarm to sound. Other features can include a calendar, a calculator, a notepad, a world clock, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and applications for converting currencies or units of measurement. But the best feature of all has to be the convenient tip calculator. You can punch in the total bill amount, calculate the tip, and divide the total cost by the number of people down to the last penny. Though it's not available in every cell phone, it can save a lot of drama at group dinners.
POP3 e-mail: If your phone has a Web browser, and the vast majority do, you can access POP3 e-mail accounts like Yahoo or Hotmail. The interface will be different than on a PC, and graphics may not render properly, but if you need to read an important e-mail while on the go, this is the way to do it. After opening your browser, just type in the correct link then enter your login and password as normal.
Ringtone composer: Many phones, particularly Sony Ericsson and Motorola models, allow you to compose your own ringtones. Not only does this allow you to add an extreme level of personalization to your phone, but you can avoid buying new ringtones from your carrier. You don't need to be musically gifted, but it can help.
Cell phone = trees
Your Used Cell Phone = One Newly Planted Tree
iRecyclePhones.com, in union with American Forest, will plant one tree for each cell phone that’s donated.
The company’s President, Lonnie Jones, saw an opportunity to make a difference – after all, over 100 million phones are discarded each year, causing severe damage to ecosystems worldwide.
How Can You Donate Your Phone Today and Add a New Tree to Our Planet? Click here.
iRecyclePhones.com, in union with American Forest, will plant one tree for each cell phone that’s donated.
The company’s President, Lonnie Jones, saw an opportunity to make a difference – after all, over 100 million phones are discarded each year, causing severe damage to ecosystems worldwide.
How Can You Donate Your Phone Today and Add a New Tree to Our Planet? Click here.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Celebrate earth day
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens, 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables.
The gardens will open its doors for free on Earth Day (April 22), and offer earth-friendly products at a 10% discount. This will be a good day to tour the grounds, have a family picnic, admire the monumental sculptures of Fernando Botero, Roy Lichtenstein and Dale Chihuly, or simply sit on a bench and read your favorite book while overlooking 83 acres of lush tropical paradise.
*****************************
Mr. Electricity will be on hand at the Museum of Discovery and Science this weekend for Earth Day activities, including an energy show sponsored by FP&L. Robert Krampf will have presentations on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. , 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
*****************************
Lion Country Safari, 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee
The safari will host a "Party for the Planet" this weekend through craft projects, tours of the grounds and animals and a contest for the best artwork. Events will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lion Country Safari's "Party for the Planet" is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium's "Conservation Made Simple" public education campaign that encourages families to learn about and conserve the planet.
The park is open daily from 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. The last car is admitted an hour before closing. Admission is $22.99 for adults and children older than 10; $20.99 for adults older than 65; and $17.49 for children ages 3-9.
The gardens will open its doors for free on Earth Day (April 22), and offer earth-friendly products at a 10% discount. This will be a good day to tour the grounds, have a family picnic, admire the monumental sculptures of Fernando Botero, Roy Lichtenstein and Dale Chihuly, or simply sit on a bench and read your favorite book while overlooking 83 acres of lush tropical paradise.
*****************************
Mr. Electricity will be on hand at the Museum of Discovery and Science this weekend for Earth Day activities, including an energy show sponsored by FP&L. Robert Krampf will have presentations on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. , 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
*****************************
Lion Country Safari, 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee
The safari will host a "Party for the Planet" this weekend through craft projects, tours of the grounds and animals and a contest for the best artwork. Events will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lion Country Safari's "Party for the Planet" is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium's "Conservation Made Simple" public education campaign that encourages families to learn about and conserve the planet.
The park is open daily from 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. The last car is admitted an hour before closing. Admission is $22.99 for adults and children older than 10; $20.99 for adults older than 65; and $17.49 for children ages 3-9.
Green house
Put sunscreen on your home!
Damage from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet is the primary cause of fading to your furnishings. To shield your valuables, Llumar Window Film® Residential Films reject almost 100 percent of damaging ultraviolet and up to 82% of total solar energy ¾ protecting your valuable furnishings, flooring and decor. Air-conditioning costs are minimized making it easier for your home to keep its cool.
Find out more.
Damage from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet is the primary cause of fading to your furnishings. To shield your valuables, Llumar Window Film® Residential Films reject almost 100 percent of damaging ultraviolet and up to 82% of total solar energy ¾ protecting your valuable furnishings, flooring and decor. Air-conditioning costs are minimized making it easier for your home to keep its cool.
Find out more.
Green Joe
How to green your coffee or tea.
Coffee is the world’s most commonly traded commodity after crude oil, and tea is the world’s most consumed beverage after water. So if tea and coffee are up there with oil and water on the world stage, we know there must be a lot at stake here. One thing that’s definitely at stake is our desire to get a delicious, healthy, perky, fairly-traded, and eco-friendly brew to sip. Here’s a quick spin through some of the finer points of green coffee and tea connoisseurship.
Top 10 Tips
Here are 10 highly effective ways to go greener. Hit it.
1. The local brew
Seek out the coffee and tea that have traveled the least distance to reach you and also aim at supporting local, independent farms, cafés, and roasters.
2. Mug shots
Go ahead, find that perfect mug and make the investment. Not only is a reusable mug more pleasurable to sip out of than a paper cup, but it will replace an untold number of disposable cups, plastic sippy tops, “java jackets,” and other disposable paraphernalia. If you've got a thing for paper cups and Greek art, try a more durable "We Are Happy to Serve You," the handy-work of TreeHugger founder Graham Hill. Make a quick tally of how many disposable coffee or tea cups you use in a month…yeah, it’s probably a lot.
3. Organic
Coffee and tea that bear organic certification are more eco-friendly because they are grown and processed without toxic chemicals, are cultivated and harvested in ways that protect sensitive ecosystems, and spare workers from exposure to harmful pesticides and herbicides. Shade grown coffee is another important category that preserves habitats for migratory birds on coffee farms, also letting beans mature more slowly and creating richer flavors.
4. Fair Trade
Not only does certified fair trade coffee and tea help ensure living wages and safe working conditions for farmers, but TransFair and Rainforest Alliance both include rigorous environmental standards in their certification criteria.
5. Home brew
The local café is great. It’s got your friends, good food, free wireless. But if you think you can be greener in your own kitchen, give it a try. When you do it at home you know where the beans and leaves are coming from and also where they go when they’re spent. Plus, you can’t forget your mug, you can choose organic milk, and never toss out another paper sugar packet. Try a bit of quick math on the cost savings of making your morning cup-o-joe at home.
6. Loosen up
Tea bags and coffee filters can be useful but are mostly unnecessary. Great coffee can be made at home with a reusable filter or a stovetop espresso maker. A quality tea infuser can last a lifetime and replace an untold number of (questionably compostable) tea bags. If you do use filters and bags, look for biodegradable and unbleached ones.
7. Milk and sugar
Most people put one thing or another in their hot beverage of choice. Don’t foul up your organic, fair trade, bird friendly, solar roasted brew with chemical and hormone-laden milk and sugar from a little paper packet. If you don’t do the cow thing, look for organic rice, soy, or almond milk to yin up your yang. In the U.S., TransFair also certifies sugar, so even your sugar can be fair trade. (Maple syrup in coffee is another well-kept secret.)
8. "Press" the issue
If the local coffee shop you love doesn’t carry coffee and tea that meet your standards, start asking politely. Starbucks has a universal policy under which they will brew a French press of fair trade coffee for anyone who asks. Take the Starbucks Challenge and see if your barista knows what Starbucks has committed to.
9. Compost the roast
Tea leaves and especially coffee grounds make outstanding compost. Coffee’s high nitrogen content has made it a fertilizer of choice since days of yore. Composting leaves and grounds helps keep organic waste out of landfills, makes great soil, and keeps waste baskets dry. If you don’t have a heap to toss it on, just spread coffee grounds on the top of your plants’ soil.
10. Gift the good stuff
Organic coffee and tea make superb gifts for friends and coworkers, as well as effective peace offerings for estranged family members and ex-lovers. It’s also a great way to get people appreciating the many benefits of a “greener” coffee or tea habit.
Coffee is the world’s most commonly traded commodity after crude oil, and tea is the world’s most consumed beverage after water. So if tea and coffee are up there with oil and water on the world stage, we know there must be a lot at stake here. One thing that’s definitely at stake is our desire to get a delicious, healthy, perky, fairly-traded, and eco-friendly brew to sip. Here’s a quick spin through some of the finer points of green coffee and tea connoisseurship.
Top 10 Tips
Here are 10 highly effective ways to go greener. Hit it.
1. The local brew
Seek out the coffee and tea that have traveled the least distance to reach you and also aim at supporting local, independent farms, cafés, and roasters.
2. Mug shots
Go ahead, find that perfect mug and make the investment. Not only is a reusable mug more pleasurable to sip out of than a paper cup, but it will replace an untold number of disposable cups, plastic sippy tops, “java jackets,” and other disposable paraphernalia. If you've got a thing for paper cups and Greek art, try a more durable "We Are Happy to Serve You," the handy-work of TreeHugger founder Graham Hill. Make a quick tally of how many disposable coffee or tea cups you use in a month…yeah, it’s probably a lot.
3. Organic
Coffee and tea that bear organic certification are more eco-friendly because they are grown and processed without toxic chemicals, are cultivated and harvested in ways that protect sensitive ecosystems, and spare workers from exposure to harmful pesticides and herbicides. Shade grown coffee is another important category that preserves habitats for migratory birds on coffee farms, also letting beans mature more slowly and creating richer flavors.
4. Fair Trade
Not only does certified fair trade coffee and tea help ensure living wages and safe working conditions for farmers, but TransFair and Rainforest Alliance both include rigorous environmental standards in their certification criteria.
5. Home brew
The local café is great. It’s got your friends, good food, free wireless. But if you think you can be greener in your own kitchen, give it a try. When you do it at home you know where the beans and leaves are coming from and also where they go when they’re spent. Plus, you can’t forget your mug, you can choose organic milk, and never toss out another paper sugar packet. Try a bit of quick math on the cost savings of making your morning cup-o-joe at home.
6. Loosen up
Tea bags and coffee filters can be useful but are mostly unnecessary. Great coffee can be made at home with a reusable filter or a stovetop espresso maker. A quality tea infuser can last a lifetime and replace an untold number of (questionably compostable) tea bags. If you do use filters and bags, look for biodegradable and unbleached ones.
7. Milk and sugar
Most people put one thing or another in their hot beverage of choice. Don’t foul up your organic, fair trade, bird friendly, solar roasted brew with chemical and hormone-laden milk and sugar from a little paper packet. If you don’t do the cow thing, look for organic rice, soy, or almond milk to yin up your yang. In the U.S., TransFair also certifies sugar, so even your sugar can be fair trade. (Maple syrup in coffee is another well-kept secret.)
8. "Press" the issue
If the local coffee shop you love doesn’t carry coffee and tea that meet your standards, start asking politely. Starbucks has a universal policy under which they will brew a French press of fair trade coffee for anyone who asks. Take the Starbucks Challenge and see if your barista knows what Starbucks has committed to.
9. Compost the roast
Tea leaves and especially coffee grounds make outstanding compost. Coffee’s high nitrogen content has made it a fertilizer of choice since days of yore. Composting leaves and grounds helps keep organic waste out of landfills, makes great soil, and keeps waste baskets dry. If you don’t have a heap to toss it on, just spread coffee grounds on the top of your plants’ soil.
10. Gift the good stuff
Organic coffee and tea make superb gifts for friends and coworkers, as well as effective peace offerings for estranged family members and ex-lovers. It’s also a great way to get people appreciating the many benefits of a “greener” coffee or tea habit.
Wear green
Wearing green today takes on a whole new meaning. Many stylish items are becoming truly green as more Earth-friendly fabrics, made from fibers grown without chemicals, go mainstream. The lineup includes organic cotton, silk, soy, linen, wool, hemp and even bamboo.
Learn more about wearing earth friendly clothes.
What will you do to help the environment?
Learn more about wearing earth friendly clothes.
What will you do to help the environment?
Monday, April 21, 2008
Atta boy
What's the nicest way you've been recognized for a job well done?
A paid day off
A trip to a spa
A bonus check
A nice note
Bragged about you in front of your co-workers
A party
A voicemail
A paid day off
A trip to a spa
A bonus check
A nice note
Bragged about you in front of your co-workers
A party
A voicemail
Save gas
Fast Facts: Tips To Save Gas
(CBS4)
With the price of gasoline on the rise, many people are wondering how much gas can you really save by keeping your tires inflated or turning off your air conditioner? Or how about driving less aggressively or using your cruise control?
Here are some of the top tips to stretch your dollar at the pumps.
1.Avoid prolonged warming up of engine
2. Don't start and stop engine needlessly. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the gas amount equivalent to when you start the engine.
3. Avoid "reving" the engine, especially just before you switch the engine off. It wastes fuel and wears out cylinders.
4. Stop jack-rabbit starts. Accelerate slowly when starting from dead stop instead of stomping on the gas. Also, don't slam on the breaks at every stop.
5. Don't speed. Cars get about 21% more mileage at 55 mph then at 70 mph.
6. Traveling at fast rates in low gears can consume up to 45% more fuel than is needed.
7. Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10%.
8. Drive steadily. Slowing down or speeding up wastes fuel, which is why using cruise control can actually save you money.
9.. Automatic transmissions should be allowed to cool down when your car is idling at a standstill, e.g. railroad crossings, long traffic lights, etc. Place gear into neutral position. This reduces transmission strain and allows transmission to cool.
10. Park car so that you can later begin to travel in forward gear; avoid reverse gear maneuvers to save gas.
11. Regular tune-ups ensure best economy.
12. Use the lowest octane gas that won't make your engine knock.
13. Inflate all tires to maximum limit.
14. Remove vinyl tops - they cause air drag. Rough surfaces disturb otherwise smooth air flow around a car's body. Bear in mind when buying new cars that a fancy sun roof helps disturb smooth air flow (and mileage).
15. Remove excess weight from trunk or inside of car.
16. Car pools reduce travel monotony and gas expense - all riders chip in to help you buy.
17. Use only your right foot for accelerating and braking. That way you can't accidentally ride the brake and use excessive gas.
18. Shift into high gear as soon as possible. If you have automatic transmission, lift your foot from the accelerator about one second early.
19. Make certain your gas cap fits properly.
20. Use air conditioning only when necessary. Try opening the window.
(CBS4)
With the price of gasoline on the rise, many people are wondering how much gas can you really save by keeping your tires inflated or turning off your air conditioner? Or how about driving less aggressively or using your cruise control?
Here are some of the top tips to stretch your dollar at the pumps.
1.Avoid prolonged warming up of engine
2. Don't start and stop engine needlessly. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the gas amount equivalent to when you start the engine.
3. Avoid "reving" the engine, especially just before you switch the engine off. It wastes fuel and wears out cylinders.
4. Stop jack-rabbit starts. Accelerate slowly when starting from dead stop instead of stomping on the gas. Also, don't slam on the breaks at every stop.
5. Don't speed. Cars get about 21% more mileage at 55 mph then at 70 mph.
6. Traveling at fast rates in low gears can consume up to 45% more fuel than is needed.
7. Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10%.
8. Drive steadily. Slowing down or speeding up wastes fuel, which is why using cruise control can actually save you money.
9.. Automatic transmissions should be allowed to cool down when your car is idling at a standstill, e.g. railroad crossings, long traffic lights, etc. Place gear into neutral position. This reduces transmission strain and allows transmission to cool.
10. Park car so that you can later begin to travel in forward gear; avoid reverse gear maneuvers to save gas.
11. Regular tune-ups ensure best economy.
12. Use the lowest octane gas that won't make your engine knock.
13. Inflate all tires to maximum limit.
14. Remove vinyl tops - they cause air drag. Rough surfaces disturb otherwise smooth air flow around a car's body. Bear in mind when buying new cars that a fancy sun roof helps disturb smooth air flow (and mileage).
15. Remove excess weight from trunk or inside of car.
16. Car pools reduce travel monotony and gas expense - all riders chip in to help you buy.
17. Use only your right foot for accelerating and braking. That way you can't accidentally ride the brake and use excessive gas.
18. Shift into high gear as soon as possible. If you have automatic transmission, lift your foot from the accelerator about one second early.
19. Make certain your gas cap fits properly.
20. Use air conditioning only when necessary. Try opening the window.
Thank them
Get ready to recognize your associates during
Administrative Professionals' Week!
Administrative professionals are an integral part of your team, so show them how much you appreciate them! Administrative Professionals' Week is April 20-26 and it’s the perfect time to recognize the hard work, dedication and talents of the many administrative professionals that we employ on client assignments!
If your branch has an associate in an administrative position, here are a few ways you can thank them for their efforts:
• Click here for a Certificate of Appreciation that you can personalize, print and present to your associates.
• Send them our new eCard – it's available on Marketing On Demand and has a customizable field to personalize your message.
• Bagel/donut breakfast – Connect with your client contact and get their OK to arrange a special admin breakfast (or luncheon)at the job site. (NOTE: please make sure your VP approves your proposed spend.)
• Give them a call to simply say “thank you!” for their hard work and commitment to Adecco.
• Let your clients know, too! We have also created new emails to remind your clients to show their appreciation for their administrative professionals – get them today on Marketing On Demand!
Be sure to take this opportunity to thank those who take care of your clients!
Administrative Professionals' Week!
Administrative professionals are an integral part of your team, so show them how much you appreciate them! Administrative Professionals' Week is April 20-26 and it’s the perfect time to recognize the hard work, dedication and talents of the many administrative professionals that we employ on client assignments!
If your branch has an associate in an administrative position, here are a few ways you can thank them for their efforts:
• Click here for a Certificate of Appreciation that you can personalize, print and present to your associates.
• Send them our new eCard – it's available on Marketing On Demand and has a customizable field to personalize your message.
• Bagel/donut breakfast – Connect with your client contact and get their OK to arrange a special admin breakfast (or luncheon)at the job site. (NOTE: please make sure your VP approves your proposed spend.)
• Give them a call to simply say “thank you!” for their hard work and commitment to Adecco.
• Let your clients know, too! We have also created new emails to remind your clients to show their appreciation for their administrative professionals – get them today on Marketing On Demand!
Be sure to take this opportunity to thank those who take care of your clients!
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