Automotive
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Get your garage ready for winter
(ARA) - Colder weather not only has you shutting the windows and cranking up the heat, but also bringing all your belongings indoors to protect them from the winter elements. This means it's time to get your garage geared up for the season.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTire tips for winter driving
(ARA) - As the weather outside gets frightful, now is a good time to make sure your vehicle's tires are prepared for snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Sixty-three percent of Americans are concerned about skidding and icy roadways as the thermometer's mercury drops, according to a recent survey commissioned by Hankook Tire America Corp. To ensure safety and peace of mind as you venture out on a snowy day, here are some tire tips to consider:
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat to do if you get stopped for speeding
(ARA) - Every day, thousands of speeding tickets are issued to motorists on our nation's roads and highways. According to various sources, an estimated 40 million speeding tickets are issued each year (one for every five motorists) with an average fine of $150.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTAuto tech gadgets more appealing to Americans than safety features
(ARA) - Whether you're planning a short trip to the store or a long ride across the country, getting behind the wheel is the easy part. Staying safe while driving, on the other hand, takes a bit more work.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to keep your car running for years longer than most
(ARA) - If you've been in an auto dealer's showroom recently, you won't be surprised to learn that the average price of a new car is approaching $30,000. While there's no getting around the price you have to pay for a new automobile, there are plenty of things you can do to make sure you won't have to make the same investment again anytime soon.
Thursday, January 5, 2012 6:00 PM CSTCleaning up the mystery of vehicle title washing
(ARA) - When you buy a used car, you're happy if the seller vacuums the interior and gives the exterior a good wash and wax before you take possession. But there's one kind of "cleanup" that you want to avoid when you're buying used: title washing.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFind the perfect snow thrower for you
(ARA) - With only a few weeks until the official start of winter, now is the perfect time to choose a snow thrower before the blizzards hit. With so many options on the market, which one is right for you?
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPersonalizing gives used vehicles that new-ride feel
(ARA) - Driving a shiny, new and powerful vehicle can be quite a thrill. Fortunately, you don't have to go into debt buying a new car or truck to get that feeling.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:00 PM CDTNew garage door technology makes your life safer; secure
(ARA) - As the American home has continued to evolve with the speed of new technology, so has the garage. In order to keep up with the everyday busy lives of homeowners and the need for these homeowners to spread out and utilize all the space within their homes, garages have become a new frontier for functioning space within the home.
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTNew federal auto regulation could have positive insurance implications
At first glance, the dozens of vehicles chosen as top safety picks this year by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) appear to have little in common other than doing a good job of protecting drivers and passengers. The list includes everything from mini cars to minivans, luxury sedans and pickup trucks, all built according to their own design specifications by different automakers.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWinter warriors make roadways safer and keep us moving
(ARA) - It's fall. It's getting colder, the leaves are falling and winter is looming. Most likely, you haven't given much thought to the road crews who are working this fall, preparing equipment and resources in order to keep roads clear and safe this winter.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHybrid cars drive innovation while meeting consumer demands
Americans have an undisputed love for their automobiles, but it's a double faceted adoration. There's a love for tradition - you'll feel it any time you see a beautiful vintage cruiser headed to a car show or just out for a Sunday drive. But there's also a passion for innovation - the newest cars are in high demand for their new bells and whistles that make the driving experience better.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDon't let winter weather catch you by surprise behind the wheel
(ARA) - This year, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads and facing cold temperatures, along with the snowy and icy conditions winter weather brings. These factors are not only a nuisance, but at times, very dangerous, even for the most confident and experienced drivers. Simple driving maneuvers, such as starting, stopping and making turns can become very challenging if vehicles are not properly prepared for inclement weather.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPrice versus value: When is it worth the upgrade?
(ARA) - In today's economy, people want to know how they can keep their vehicles on the road for longer periods of time. Frequent maintenance will keep your car in good health, ensuring you get the most out of all those expensive-to-replace parts, according to the Car Care Council. When does it make sense to upgrade to a premium automotive product?
Monday, January 16, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWorried about an older relative's driving?
(ARA) - When families are gathered together this holiday season, you may start to notice changes in an older relative's driving behaviors and begin to have some concerns. You are not alone.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to get your motorcycle ready to survive the winter
Snow and cold is an inevitable part of winter for many people living in the United States. Unfortunately, for millions of Americans, that means that the leather motorcycle jackets get shelved and their beloved motorcycles are put in storage for the winter.
Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBuying a car? Avoid these wrong turns
(ARA) - Buying a car is like an epic adventure. There are heroes (you), sidekicks (your wingmen who accompany you to the dealership), foes (the sales manager who just won't give up on the undercarriage rust-proofing) and even a prize at the end (your shiny new vehicle). And like any journey, buying a car can be fraught with perils and wrong turns.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips to prepare your auto for winter travel
(ARA) - The cold snap has arrived and the stormy winter days and dark evenings are here. It is time to prepare your car for the winter months to minimize the risk of a breakdown. Such breakdowns could be avoided by carrying out regular checks, so motorists are advised to follow these steps to minimize the risk.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTeach teens to drive safely - and save their lives
(ARA) - In 2009, 3,466 teenagers died in the United States from automobile crash injuries, according to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Such injuries are by far the leading public health problem among youths 13 to19 years old. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in America. Mile for mile, teenagers are involved in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers. The crash risk among teenage drivers is particularly high during the first months of licensure.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTCar shopping? How to protect yourself from online fraud
(ARA) - Shopping for cars online is easier than ever, and more and more buyers are turning to the Internet during the shopping process. According to the 2011 Automotive Buyer Influence Study, conducted by Polk and AutoTrader.com, new and used vehicle buyers spend 18 to 19 hours researching cars before purchasing, and they spend 60 percent of their shopping time online.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTLarge payouts from natural disasters could lead to auto insurance rate increases
From earthquakes, fire and floods to tornadoes and tropical storms, the natural disasters that hit the nation this year broke records for the billions of dollars in damage they wreaked.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBridal
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The heat is on: Five getaways to kindle the romance
(ARA) - Romance is in the air. Whether you are celebrating Valentine's Day, planning a honeymoon, or just looking for a fun getaway with your better half, these trip ideas are guaranteed to ignite a spark.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHelp make your dreams a reality with wedding insurance
(ARA) - Getting married is a dream. Who hasn't fantasized about the dress, the jewelry, your dad walking you down the aisle, the music, the cake, the reception following the ceremony?
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow the royal wedding influenced the latest bridal trends
(ARA) - Although the latest Brides American Wedding Study shows the average cost of a wedding in 2010 was $26,501, a decrease of 5 percent from 2009, weddings continue to be big business. But many couples are opting to cut the guest list instead of big ticket items like wedding gowns.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCreative ways to customize for a wedding that's uniquely 'you'
(ARA)- No matter what dress you wear or whether it rains or shines, your wedding day is guaranteed to be one of the most wonderful days of your life. The careful planning you do leading up to the big event will ensure that everything goes smoothly, but the most important thing to remember is that your wedding should be an expression - and a celebration - of who you are as a couple.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBusiness And Careers
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How your business can make the most of the holidays
At the end of the year, you might be thinking about how the quarter is going to end, but the rest of the world is thinking about the holidays. Getting in the spirit shouldn't just apply to your personal life - it should also be a natural part of your business initiatives.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for working smarter outside of the traditional office environment
(ARA) - For many professionals, life in a cubicle is a thing of the past. Going into work could very well mean taking a stroll down the hall to your home office or heading to the coffee shop down the street. Employers are even moving past the cube-and-office model, and instead incorporating more common areas and ad-hoc spaces that promote collaboration and flexibility.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTIRS free resources help employers choose and maintain retirement plans
(ARA) - Are you a small-business owner thinking about offering a retirement plan to your employees? The Internal Revenue Service has free resources on starting and maintaining a retirement plan to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your employees.
Monday, September 26, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSmall businesses fill their stockings with new PCs
(ARA) - You've bought the turkey, winter clothes are out and it's official: The holiday season is in full swing. It's a time when many start thinking about holiday gifts and many small businesses consider how they'll hit those end-of-year goals and start the new year out ahead of schedule.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSocial media helping small businesses stretch their ad dollars
The 6th annual Staples National Small Business Survey found that seven out of 10 small-business owners are optimistic about the future. Further, 52 percent of small-business owners revealed they would look to grow their business through advertising and direct marketing if they had a larger marketing budget.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhat's up in the workplace this holiday season?
Keeping the season fun and festive at work can take on a lot of different forms. Staples.com recently surveyed close to 400 people through social media to find out what was going in their office this holiday season. Here's what people found to be the most important to them this year:
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTUsing social media to ramp up for Small Business Saturday
Big retailers have traditionally been the businesses to see the biggest boost on Black Friday, and Cyber Monday helps online merchants. If you're a small-business owner, you now have a day when consumers are thinking about you - Nov. 26 is Small Business Saturday - and smart use of social media can help you make the most of it.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBranding pointers for small businesses
(ARA) - Branding isn't just for the big guys. Small businesses can launch, grow and expand through clear and consistent messaging and marketing, just like larger companies do.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMaster's degrees help educators navigate changing roles
(ARA) - Education is the second largest industry in the United States, and nearly everyone is impacted by its professionals in some way.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTThe industry where the American Dream still thrives
(ARA) - Achievement through hard work is the American way, and few industries offer more opportunity for that kind of success than the restaurant business. Generations of Americans have reaped the financial rewards and personal satisfaction that come from serving others a good meal.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTeaching kids financial literacy? Don't forget entrepreneurship
(ARA) - You teach them the value of hard work and the importance of telling the truth, how to be a loyal friend and a good citizen. But you might be overlooking one of the most important lessons you can teach your children to help ensure they do well in life - financial literacy.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDon't let your money manage you
(ARA) - As the United States, one of the world's wealthiest countries, struggles with debt and a still-uncertain economy, Americans are closely watching the steps our leaders are taking to address long-term fiscal problems. The state of our nation's economy has also caused many individuals to re-examine their own personal finances and money management plans.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFinancial services a good field for students to investigate
(ARA) - Despite high unemployment rates and a slow economy, job outlooks are bright for students considering degrees related to financial services. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook for 2010-11, the demand for personal financial advisers, insurance agents and financial analysts is expected to rise faster than average by 2018.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow SEO brings ROI to business websites
Many people doubt search-engine optimization, or "SEO" for short. Some have a bad impression of it from watching the TV show "The Good Wife" or reading about the "dirty tricks" of a certain department store in The New York Times. They say it's nothing more than "black- hat" tactics that can get you in trouble with Google. These people want to cut back their marketing spending in a slow and uncertain economy. Some of this thinking may even be correct.
Sunday, November 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSimple ways small businesses can protect their data from disaster
(ARA) - Small or large, domestic or international, modern businesses run (or fail) on data. If you're a small-business owner, data - from customer email addresses to your bank account numbers - is vital to your company's success. Protecting data is as important as generating sales.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTAre business credit cards rewarding for small businesses?
Considering how much money your small business pumps into your local economy, the taxes you pay and your company's role as part of the engine that drives the national economy, you probably think someone should be giving you some kind of reward.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTIs this the year you change your career?
(ARA) - When you evaluate your current situation and set goals for the future, do career goals top the list? If so it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Why not make 2012 the year you get your new career underway?
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTExperts expect smartphones to overtake personal computers in 2012
(ARA) - Smartphones are steadily becoming commonplace devices for everyone from professionals to busy moms. Users of these devices now instinctively turn to their phones for tasks that previously they would only have accomplished on a computer, over the phone or in person. These tasks include surfing the Web, obtaining driving directions, connecting via social media, and even shopping.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow moms can find opportunities to chase business dreams
(ARA) - While raising children, many women find themselves looking for a solution in which they can work, while still being involved in their child's life. This may be one of the reasons for the rising trend of successful "mompreneurs" - women starting and running their own businesses, often from home.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhen starting a business, remember that time is money
This challenging economy and stagnant job market have left plenty of qualified and capable Americans without work. And when qualified and capable people suddenly have time on their hands, many of them will think about starting their own business.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive practices that help small businesses avoid hiring mistakes
(ARA) - The majority of small business owners go into business because they're passionate about their field, or about making money in general. One aspect to growing a business entrepreneurs often find challenging is hiring the right staff members to suit their goals.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWays to keep small business registers ringing during the holidays
(ARA) - The holiday shopping season is the time of the year that service and retail businesses big and small look forward to all year. In fact, National Retail Federation research shows that the last two months of the year can account for between 25 and 40 percent of all annual sales. For small businesses especially, the holiday season is often a crucial make-or-break opportunity to earn the revenue required to sustain the business the following year.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow small businesses can protect their floors and technology this winter
(ARA) - Snow, ice, wind and cold temperatures bring a host of problems that facility and IT managers must plan and prepare for ahead of the winter season. Not only do they need to consider the damaging effects that salt and sand have on flooring, but they should prepare for potential power outages that could impact their technology infrastructure.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHoliday digital-marketing strategies for small businesses
With the holiday shopping season approaching, Santa's workshop isn't the only thing buzzing with activity. Search engine activity spikes every year as the holidays approach. It's likely that your current and potential customers are creating at least some of that online activity.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to create a winning resume and have your best interview
(ARA) - You've seen the headlines. While no one would call the job market red hot, it is warming. Companies across most industries are starting to lift their heads and are considering new talent. While many businesses may be operating leaner, they are recruiting for skilled workers in many areas.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTA flu prevention guide for the workplace
(ARA) - Flu season is upon us and that means runny noses, chills and body aches. For a small business and its employees, that can mean days spent home in bed or feeling sick in your office, which results in lost working hours. Did you know that flu costs businesses approximately $10.4 billion each year in direct costs for hospitalizations and outpatient visits for adults?
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCollege credit but no degree: The focus is on working adults
(ARA) - If you are a working adult who has accumulated some college credit but haven't earned enough to be awarded a degree, you are not alone. There are at least 54 million people in the nation who fall into this category. To once again put the United States among world leaders whose citizens have college degrees, these "near completers" are receiving increased attention.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTOld meets new: How to represent yourself in today's social-media-driven business world
If you met someone new and wanted to keep in contact with them, you wouldn't give them your mailing address and ask them to post a letter. In this day and age, that kind of behavior would be considered eccentric at best. The world revolves around new technology, and ignoring it can put you at a disadvantage, whether you're forging new friendships or, more importantly, trying to get hired.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips to simplify your tech life
(ARA) - Technology is wonderful - when it is simple and works. Anyone who's ever had to run both a PC and a Mac in order to be able to use the applications they need understands that the technology we depend upon to make our lives easier can sometimes complicate things.
Sunday, January 15, 2012 6:00 PM CSTForensic science a popular degree program thanks to prime time
(ARA) - Crime scene dramas like "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" and "Criminal Minds" have exploded in popularity over the past decade, creating what many in the legal field describe as "The CSI Effect."
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCommunity Cares
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How you can help children of incarcerated parents during the holidays
(ARA) - Drug abuse. Divorce. Homelessness. Imprisonment. Little Forrest has witnessed them all. With his father in prison and his mom lost in a haze of drug abuse, Forrest's maternal grandparents took custody of him when he was just 2 years old. For Forrest, his dad's prison sentence seemed like a punishment for him, too.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRaise your hand to Stop Diabetes
(ARA) - November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and management.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTOn World Food Day, thank a farmer
(ARA) - Fewer than 3 percent of Americans work in farming. Yet, this sector of our workforce not only feeds our country, it also provides a wealth of grain and food exports that feed millions of people around the world. In fact, America's agriculture sector is so productive that Americans spend less for food, as a percentage of their total income, than do most other people around the world.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMilitary care packages - A little piece of home that makes a big impact
U.S. troops have left Iraq, ending 9 years of war, but there are still many troops deployed in areas around the world. They are serving while away from home, families and familiar faces.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012 6:00 PM CSTThe industry where the American Dream still thrives
(ARA) - Achievement through hard work is the American way, and few industries offer more opportunity for that kind of success than the restaurant business. Generations of Americans have reaped the financial rewards and personal satisfaction that come from serving others a good meal.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow donated tissue saved a woman's leg
The gift of donated human tissue meant that Susan Cossabone was able to avoid leg amputation and return to her passion of horseback riding following a devastating accident.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTChoose the gift of giving this holiday season
(ARA) - The holiday season is an important time of year to celebrate with loved ones and show them how much you care. It is also a great opportunity to help those in need by considering gifts that give back and help those in need.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTA different holiday perspective: It's the little things that matter most
(ARA) - The "magic" of the holiday season across the U.S. seems to arrive earlier and earlier each year, and so by late October, many store shelves are already stocked and awaiting excited shoppers. Families snap up Rudolph figures with light-up noses, jolly Santas for front porch displays, and whimsical decorations with which to deck the halls. About that same time, giddy children begin contemplating their gift lists, trying to decide which technology gadget or must-have pair of shoes should go on top. Menus are set, families plan travel and the expectation of a prosperous New Year looms.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTop online searches show political and social attitude of 2011
(ARA) - Notorious trials, political scandals and social uprisings drew people online, but the death of Osama bin Laden and the dominance of the iPhone - fueled by the passing of Apple founder Steve Jobs - topped online searches and news in 2011.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEducation
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Five ways to avoid costly repetitive stress injuries
(ARA) - Some may think that injuries in the workplace only happen to those who work high-intensity jobs like construction workers, firefighters or police officers. But you're probably unaware that sitting at your computer and typing - something you do every day - can leave you at risk for significant pain and discomfort.
Monday, October 31, 2011 7:00 PM CDTIs this the year you change your career?
(ARA) - When you evaluate your current situation and set goals for the future, do career goals top the list? If so it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Why not make 2012 the year you get your new career underway?
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMore demand, fewer grads mean tech careers continue to boom
(ARA) - The era of the Internet start-up boom may be over, but demand for technology professionals continues to rise. Broader use of cheaper, more easily available technology by a variety of industries, and a dearth of technology professionals mean technology will continue to be a hot career choice.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive ways (count them) to get your children excited about math
If your middle school student is excited about his or her math homework today, be very thankful: By the time they're in high school, the numbers show they could be far less interested.
Sunday, November 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCollege credit but no degree: The focus is on working adults
(ARA) - If you are a working adult who has accumulated some college credit but haven't earned enough to be awarded a degree, you are not alone. There are at least 54 million people in the nation who fall into this category. To once again put the United States among world leaders whose citizens have college degrees, these "near completers" are receiving increased attention.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCredit by exam: the missing piece in the college puzzle helps students reduce expenses
(ARA) - If you are a 21st century student, you may be facing concerns over the rising cost of a college degree and the prospect of future college debt. You may be wondering, can I achieve my education goals and still find a way to contain costs? Meanwhile, President Obama is calling for increased degree completion as an element of workforce development.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 7:00 PM CDTIs your child packing the right technology for school?
The days when you sent your child off to school with sharpened pencils, ruled paper and a Trapper Keeper are over. Today's kids may be bringing home an entirely different supply list. And you may want to arm your kids with a few extras that are more like essentials.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhen starting a business, remember that time is money
This challenging economy and stagnant job market have left plenty of qualified and capable Americans without work. And when qualified and capable people suddenly have time on their hands, many of them will think about starting their own business.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRecharge your career through education
(ARA) - While this may be a challenging time to look for a job, there is no shortage of personal career aspirations. Whether you are in between jobs or gainfully employed, these uncertain times provide the opportunity to assess your options for the future.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTInterview pitfalls to avoid
(ARA) - Competition for employment is at an all-time high. One might think that every job candidate would display proper interview etiquette. However, many people arrive for an interview unprepared to fulfill professional expectations of the process. For those fortunate enough to land an interview, there are a few rules you can follow to help avoid common interview pitfalls.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTIs a graduate degree in nursing right for you?
The national nursing shortage is looming again, and it is expected to affect all levels of professional nursing. The U.S. Department of Labor expects the demand for nurses to grow by 22 percent by 2018. But the demand surge for nurses also means that current nurses will have more professional opportunities. If you are considering professional advancement, how do you know if a nursing graduate program is right for you?
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTechnology becoming the top learning tool in classrooms
(ARA) - Gone are the days where a teacher stood at the chalkboard - her back to the classroom - demonstrating a math equation. Technology has taken over elementary, middle and high schools across the country, allowing teachers to interact with and educate students in a more hands-on way.
Sunday, August 28, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhat's the right career for your children?
(ARA) - If you ask kids in elementary school what they want to be when they grow up, you'll likely hear singer, ballerina, athlete or movie star. As students move into middle school and high school, they think more seriously about career possibilities. All parents want their children to be successful, so what careers should they expose them to in order to help them make a good decision?
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake online education work for you
(ARA) - Enrollments in online education have grown exponentially over the past decade. In fact, during the fall 2009 semester, approximately 5.6 million students in the U.S. were enrolled in at least one online course, an increase of nearly 1 million students over the previous year, according to the 2010 Sloan Survey of Online Learning. The survey also finds that almost 30 percent of students take at least one college or university course online.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhy taking care of your emotional health is important while unemployed
(ARA) - It seems that nearly every newscast these days includes some discussion of wide-scale joblessness in the U.S. and discussion of economic crises at home and abroad. The American worker has been taken on a roller coaster ride over the course of the last few years that has left many in a tailspin when it comes to their emotional health and their jobs.
Monday, January 2, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to create a winning resume and have your best interview
(ARA) - You've seen the headlines. While no one would call the job market red hot, it is warming. Companies across most industries are starting to lift their heads and are considering new talent. While many businesses may be operating leaner, they are recruiting for skilled workers in many areas.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHead off college debt: shape teen skills early
(ARA) - Succeeding in college is about more than being smart. It's about how students manage time, themselves, and their studies, according to Dr. Bob Neuman, former dean of academic development at Marquette University.
Thursday, December 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFinancial planning tip: Make sure your health care needs are covered
(ARA) - Are you thinking about a major life or career change, such as early retirement or starting your own business? One of your major considerations should be health care costs. Can you obtain private insurance for you and your family? What happens if you don't have coverage and get sick or injured? If you purchase coverage and don't use it, are you just wasting money?
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow moms can find opportunities to chase business dreams
(ARA) - While raising children, many women find themselves looking for a solution in which they can work, while still being involved in their child's life. This may be one of the reasons for the rising trend of successful "mompreneurs" - women starting and running their own businesses, often from home.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDon't let your money manage you
(ARA) - As the United States, one of the world's wealthiest countries, struggles with debt and a still-uncertain economy, Americans are closely watching the steps our leaders are taking to address long-term fiscal problems. The state of our nation's economy has also caused many individuals to re-examine their own personal finances and money management plans.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTAdvanced degrees can help you climb the business career ladder
It takes a lot of effort to promote yourself in the business world, and pursuing an advanced degree is a great step toward working your way up the career ladder.
Monday, January 2, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to pursue your passion through a career change
(ARA) - Whether you are pursuing a life-long passion or looking to reinvent yourself, it is never too late to pursue a new career.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTaking your business ideas to new dimensions
(ARA) - As the current global market continues to create uncertainty for jobs across almost every industry, self-employment has become a growing trend, with more than 10 percent of workers being self-employed according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. After all, if you're your own boss, what better job security could there be?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTForensic science a popular degree program thanks to prime time
(ARA) - Crime scene dramas like "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" and "Criminal Minds" have exploded in popularity over the past decade, creating what many in the legal field describe as "The CSI Effect."
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow students can meet the challenge of the evolving health care industry
(ARA) - Health care reform has expanded access to health care insurance coverage to more than 30 million new patients beginning in 2014, stretching the resources of health care facilities nationwide. Meanwhile, the introduction of new regulations and technological innovations, as well as the rapid adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), have added new layers to an already complex industry.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSlash college bills with tax benefits
(ARA) - Other than buying a home and automobile, a college education is one of the biggest investments Americans typically make. On average, in-state tuition and fees at a four-year public college increased by more than 8 percent to $8,244 for the 2011-2012 academic year, and room and board now averages more than $17,000 per year.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTLooking for a rewarding career? Start with early childhood education
Did you know that the brain is the most immature organ in the body of a newborn? While it may seem as if a baby does little more than eat, cry and sleep, the facts couldn't be further from the truth. Important growth and development take place during early childhood, especially within the brain.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRegistered nurses encouraged to pursue bachelor's degrees
(ARA) - As many industries scaled back and cut resources in the last year, health care continued to grow, adding an average of 26,000 jobs per month, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. This trend is likely to continue as technological innovations and new regulations prompt additional oversight within the health care setting.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWho is giving you that flu shot?
(ARA) - Pharmacies, doctors' offices and walk-in clinics - you have more opportunities than ever before to get that all-important annual flu shot. But if you'll be getting yours somewhere other than the doctor's office, you might wonder just who is giving you that shot and what that person's qualifications are.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSeven careers that can get your child excited about science
(ARA) - You may have already heard this, but "geek" and "nerd" are no longer disparaging monikers for kids. As technology continues to reach into the lives of children, the kids who are embracing the science behind what makes the world work could play crucial roles as scientists in the future.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTEspanol
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Cómo buscar el regalo adecuado para el adolescente difícil de complacer
(ARA) - La búsqueda del regalo perfecto para los adolescentes puede ser una tarea notoriamente difícil. Con frecuencia, las cosas que les gustan y disgustan pueden cambiar en cuestión de segundos, en dependencia de las tendencias y modas del momento.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTCómo mantener su vehículo funcionando durante más años que la mayoría
(ARA) - Si ha visitado recientemente el salón de exposición de un concesionario, no le sorprenderá saber que el precio promedio de un automóvil nuevo se aproxima a los $30,000. Aunque es imposible evadir el precio que se debe pagar por un vehículo nuevo, hay varios pasos que puede dar para garantizar que no va a hacer la misma inversión nuevamente por largo tiempo.
Sunday, January 8, 2012 6:00 PM CSTIdeas inspiradas en el agua para la temporada de fin de año
(ARA) - El agua es uno de los elementos necesarios para la vida. Sin embargo, muchas personas no aprecian su importancia. ¿Quién reflexiona sobre este tema cuando abre el grifo para lavar los platos o llenar un vaso de agua fría en la puerta del refrigerador? Esta temporada festiva, considere convertir este elemento sostenible en inspiración para regalos creativos, hermosos y rentables.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTControlando la diabetes: La conexión con la salud dental y de la vista
(ARA) - Muchas personas conocen las graves complicaciones relacionadas con la diabetes, como enfermedades cardíacas, daño nervioso y amputación de las extremidades. Sin embargo, quizás no sepan que la diabetes también puede afectar la salud dental y de la vista.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMantenga la Diabetes a Raya Este Invierno y Época de Fiestas
(ARA) - Cada invierno, el clima frío y las fiestas pueden presentar desafíos especiales a los casi 26 millones de estadounidenses que viven con diabetes, y a los casi 79 millones que tienen prediabetes y están en mayor riesgo de padecerla.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTUse sus fotografías para hacer regalos personalizados de fin de año que duren toda la vida
(ARA) - El proceso de buscar el regalo perfecto de fin de año para amigos y familiares es siempre complicado. La compra de prendas de vestir es difícil, a menos que sepa cuál es la talla y el estilo perfecto. Además, se puede equivocar a la hora de seleccionar libros y música si no está íntimamente familiarizado con los géneros que le interesan al destinatario del obsequio. Sin embargo, un tipo de regalo que nunca carecerá de estilo es el personal que usted crea con sus propias manos.
Thursday, October 13, 2011 7:00 PM CDT¿Busca un perro? Considere estos factores para garantizar que sea el idóneo
(ARA) - Existen muchos lugares comunes a la hora de hablar de los perros: que son el mejor amigo del hombre, que aman incondicionalmente, y que tras esos hocicos fríos hay corazones cálidos. Pero si bien los dueños de perros pudieran considerar un poco tonta la repetición de las mismas aseveraciones de siempre, también admiten que son absolutamente ciertas.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTNo se angustie en la ferretería: consejos para facilitar la compra de suministros de pintura
(ARA) - Todos los proyectos de pintura comienzan igual: con un viaje a la ferretería o a la tienda de artículos para mejoras en el hogar. Pero va a necesitar algo más que unas latas de pintura y una brocha. Cuando piense lo que le gustaría remodelar en casa con pintura, elimine la angustia del proceso de comprar suministros con consejos prácticos cortesía de Lisa LaPorta, la célebre diseñadora.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTManeras creativas de preservar las recetas y tradiciones familiares
(ARA) - Los recuerdos y las tradiciones especiales de una familia hacen que sus miembros, ya sea que se encuentren a la vuelta de la esquina o en el otro extremo del país, se sientan más cerca. Por eso, es importante mantener esos recuerdos y tradiciones, como platos favoritos o anécdotas familiares, siempre vigentes.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTCelebra estas navidades con un nuevo tipo de fiesta: consejos para un intercambio de galletas
(ARA) - La temporada navideña es mágica, y la mejor parte es disfrutarla con amigos y familiares. Este año, organiza un nuevo tipo de fiesta donde haya deliciosas galletas y una reunión plena de alegría.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CST¿Va a comprar un automóvil? Protéjase del fraude por Internet
(ARA) - En la actualidad, comprar un automóvil por Internet es más fácil que nunca antes, y cada vez más personas recurren a ese método durante el proceso. Según el Estudio de Influencia del Comprador de Automóviles 2011, realizado por Polk y AutoTrader.com, los compradores de vehículos nuevos y usados dedican entre 18 y 19 horas a investigar el automóvil potencial antes de adquirirlo. Además, emplean el 60 por ciento del tiempo de compra en Internet.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTLa varicela podría afectar a su hijo este invierno
(ARA) - ¿Sabía usted que la varicela es más común a finales del invierno y en primavera? Ahora que se acerca el invierno, cuando hable con el médico de su hijo acerca de cómo mantenerse saludable en esta temporada, pregúntele sobre la vacuna contra la varicela. Su médico puede recomendarle una segunda dosis de esa vacuna a su hijo.
Thursday, November 10, 2011 6:00 PM CSTConsejos para prevenir la propagación de gérmenes de la gripe y la influenza
(ARA) - Cada año, millones de personas sufren de gripe o influenza, y éste no va a ser la excepción. Este año, entre 15 y 61 millones de personas en los Estados Unidos padecerán influenza, según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de las Enfermedades (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC).
Thursday, December 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSeis consejos para evitar el robo de identidad
(ARA) - En el 2010 se presentaron cerca de 251,000 quejas de robo de identidad a la Comisión Federal del Comercio (Federal Trade Commission, FTC). Por tanto, no es sorpresa que - por 11 años consecutivos - el robo de identidad ocupe el primer lugar como principal preocupación de los consumidores.
Sunday, October 23, 2011 7:00 PM CDTUn futuro financiero más brillante implica desarrollar (y reconstruir) el crédito
(ARA) - La mayoría de las personas ya tienen las claves para su futuro financiero en el bolsillo. Si bien es cierto que las fluctuaciones del mercado afectan nuestra economía, la planificación cuidadosa y los hábitos inteligentes le llevarán más lejos de lo que podría haber imaginado. Sobre todo, tomar medidas positivas en el presente para cuidar su crédito puede conducirle a lograr una situación financiera sólida.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRegalos magníficos para ella por menos de $50
(ARA) - Encontrar el regalo perfecto no equivale necesariamente a gastar montones de dinero. Independientemente de que sea un aparato útil, un accesorio de moda o un día de consentirse en un spa de calidad, las siguientes ideas de regalos para mujeres está disponible por $50 o menos.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFamily Living
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Tips for taking great family photos
(ARA) - Everyone loves when a family photo turns out just right, especially during the holidays when families gather together and holiday photos are abundant. Great photos capture personalities, feelings and emotions, and freeze memories in a time capsule.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWelcome a new pet into your home with these tips
(ARA) - Congratulations! You're a pet owner. Bringing a new pet home is an exciting experience but requires some preparation. That adorable ball of energy covered in fur will interact with just about every inch of living space and your life is about to be enriched in ways you've never dreamed possible.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive ways to make entertaining easy
(ARA) - Whether hosting a special meal for the family or an open house for the neighborhood, entertaining can be stressful.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive no-tech, imagination-boosting toys every child should have
(ARA) - Every year, lists fly around the Internet and airwaves, parents line up in stores and everyone talks about what the season's hottest toys will be. All the chatter can make it seem like everyone's forgotten the single most enduring "toy" at the disposal of every child - imagination.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWho is giving you that flu shot?
(ARA) - Pharmacies, doctors' offices and walk-in clinics - you have more opportunities than ever before to get that all-important annual flu shot. But if you'll be getting yours somewhere other than the doctor's office, you might wonder just who is giving you that shot and what that person's qualifications are.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTen tips to manage your money through unexpected life changes
(ARA) - One of the many benefits of marriage is having a partner to share in the day-to-day tasks. One person might handle the laundry while the other takes over yard work. But, when it comes to money management, while you may end up delegating most of the responsibility to one person, it's in every couple's best interest to be mutually involved in the family finances.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFixing your credit is doable
If you find yourself with less-than-good credit, you are not alone. Business Insider, an online business news website, reports that one in 50 households owes more than $20,000 in credit card debt. Coinciding with this alarming figure, the site further states that more than 2 million Americans look to credit counselors each year to avoid bankruptcy.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPlanning for your tax bill? How it can affect your credit score
(ARA) - Your resolutions are made and you even have a game plan to make sure 2012 is the year you stick to them. But before you can really get going on achieving your personal goals in the new year, you'll need to wrap up some unfinished business from 2011 - your taxes.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCreate a tablescape to remember
(ARA) - Holiday traditions may vary from home to home, but one of the most cherished sites each year is universal. The holiday tablescape: the place where all the luscious treats of the season await all the special people in your lives.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSeasonal sense: Using scent, sight and sound to stimulate holiday spirits
(ARA) - From baking cookies with loved ones to caroling through the neighborhood or celebrating with family and friends, fond memories of holiday traditions abound. Each year, scents, sights and sounds promote the season's spirit - continuing long-standing traditions and creating new memories.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe power of resilience: overcoming the hurdles of a medical mystery
(ARA) - Imagine you're a parent with a sick child; her symptoms are mysterious and you know something is wrong. You've gone to doctor after doctor, seeking the advice of specialists and multiple opinions, and somehow 12 years have gone by and you still have no answers. In the meantime, you and your child have been in and out of hospitals, being diagnosed with everything from leukemia to appendicitis to bad luck. That nightmare was a reality for Sandy Welsh, whose daughter Kylynn has hereditary angioedema (HAE), a rare and potentially fatal swelling disorder.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPlanning for the inevitable: Start young and be prepared
(ARA) - Ashley, a vibrant, active 37-year-old lawyer, mother of three young children and part-time Pilates instructor has a to-do list longer than her combined client case load. When she learned that her next-door neighbor, a mother of four children who pal around with her kids, had terminal cancer, her mind went in many directions.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to find the right gift for the hard-to-please teen
(ARA) - Finding the perfect gift for teenagers can be a notoriously difficult task. Their likes and dislikes can often change within seconds based on the latest trends and fads.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSimplify your life with gadgets for the home
(ARA) - Nowadays, our lives are more hectic than ever. But you can pare back your to-do list with some innovative products that make household tasks a little bit easier.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTLife insurance for kids: Long term benefits come from early investment
(ARA) - Being protective goes hand-in-hand with being a parent. From hand sanitizer gel to bike helmets to high-tech car seats, moms and dads will go to the ends of the earth to keep their little ones safe, sound and happy. But eventually, the scrapes and bruises no longer need a healing kiss, the training wheels come off the bike and the day comes when they're driving to school - not just high school, but college. You might be surprised, but there are actions you can take now that will protect them then - and even beyond.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBlast away the 'Mom, I'm bored' winter break blues
(ARA) - Winter break from school used to mean a few lazy weeks spent indoors until boredom hit. This holiday season, parents can transform their family's winter break blues into excitement by offering children what they crave - fun and engaging activities that will keep their minds active (and they won't even know it).
Thursday, November 10, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEasing the stress of hosting guests during the holiday season
(ARA) - Whether it's for the holidays or another big occasion, hosting people in your home can be both gratifying and stressful. It can be especially tricky when you're entertaining out of town guests for days at a time. By planning ahead, you can avoid some of the common pitfalls that can cause a gathering to go south in a hurry and ensure that both you and your guests have such a great time that everyone will be looking forward to the next get-together once it's all over.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for smooth and successful holiday travel
(ARA) - Planning a surprise visit to Grandma and Grandpa for the holidays or a family trip to celebrate the new year? Holiday travel can be stressful, but with some careful planning, it can be full of joy, instead of headaches. Check out these holiday travel tips to help you get through this busy time with ease.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for passing down family photos in the digital age
(ARA) - For many years, photography meant developing a roll of film at the local store, sliding your glossy prints into a photo album and then placing them on your bookshelf. Digital photography changed all that, and now your photos live on computers, hard drives, CDs, USB drives and even your phone. But just because photos rarely go into leather-bound albums doesn't mean that they're any less precious. The evolution of photography has changed the ways in which we use photos - and it makes sense to think differently about how to preserve and pass on your treasured memories.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTNational Caregiver Month recognizes and supports those helping care for loved ones
(ARA) - There are more than 65 million caregivers who are an essential part of a patient's health care team in the United States. They not only provide emotional strength and support but also often help a patient with their daily needs, such as filling prescriptions or helping schedule doctors' appointments. But while being a caregiver to someone in need can be a significant help, it can also be a daunting responsibility. Greg Stephens, Founder and Director of the National CML Society, can relate.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWarm up to cool-weather vacationing with these tips
(ARA) - Cooler weather doesn't mean your outdoor fun has to cool off too. Plenty of travel destinations, especially those in southern states, offer temperate climates and ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment throughout fall and into winter.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhat's the right career for your children?
(ARA) - If you ask kids in elementary school what they want to be when they grow up, you'll likely hear singer, ballerina, athlete or movie star. As students move into middle school and high school, they think more seriously about career possibilities. All parents want their children to be successful, so what careers should they expose them to in order to help them make a good decision?
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFour-time gold medalist Janet Evans has the 'heart' for an Olympic Games comeback
(ARA) - A four-time gold medalist embarking on her fourth Olympic Games at age 40 - that's the name of the game for Janet Evans. Touted as the one to watch at the London 2012 Olympic Games, "Miss Perpetual Motion" steps back into the limelight following a 15-year hiatus from competitive swimming. Evans is committed to following her heart - and also taking care of it - to make sure it's strong enough to take on competitors half her age.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTThe tastes of the season - savory, sweet, traditional and scrumptious
(ARA) - The holiday season is fast approaching - and this year there are some new tastes joining traditional favorites to tempt even the most temperamental palates.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive ideas for practical yet fun gifts for kids
(ARA) - The building anticipation, the frantic ripping of wrapping paper and the discovery of what those colorful packages hold - holidays and birthdays are great times to be a kid. But as any parent can attest, gifts received during holidays sometimes end up gathering cobwebs in the following months.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMilitary care packages - A little piece of home that makes a big impact
U.S. troops have left Iraq, ending 9 years of war, but there are still many troops deployed in areas around the world. They are serving while away from home, families and familiar faces.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSeven careers that can get your child excited about science
(ARA) - You may have already heard this, but "geek" and "nerd" are no longer disparaging monikers for kids. As technology continues to reach into the lives of children, the kids who are embracing the science behind what makes the world work could play crucial roles as scientists in the future.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGet smart on the hottest Hollywood races this season
(ARA) - Everyone loves a great competition and this year is packed full of anticipated races. Whether you are interested in celebrities vying for an Oscar, who wins Album of the Year at the Grammys, or the race to the top for the presidential nomination, a good rivalry just can't be beat. According to a recent survey by Bing, while 21 percent of respondents are most interested in the road to the presidential conventions this winter, the hottest ticket this season is the big awards shows, with 68 percent of respondents equally or more invested in the Grammys or Oscars than the race to the political convention nominations. With so many interesting competitions taking place, how can you learn about and keep track of all the nominated films, songs and people?
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTLove and relationships: Setting expectations essential before unmarried couples commit to living together
(ARA) - It has become the new norm: Unmarried couples deciding to live together. In fact, the number of unmarried, opposite-sex couples who shared the same living quarters jumped by 13 percent, to 7.5 million, in 2010 over 2009, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of same-sex couples living together is about 620,000.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTCollaborative online children's storybook starts conversations about little-understood disease
(ARA) - "Wednesday was a long day. We went to the hospital for a special checkup. The nurse showed us the giant, cool-looking tunnel called an MRI machine. They told Scott he was going to slide in there so they could take a picture of his brain. He's done this before."
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFashion Beauty Fitness
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Style staples: jewelry essentials for every budget
(ARA) - Every woman knows there are some basics that have to be in her closet: a little black dress, a pencil skirt, a great pair of jeans and a classic purse. With the right building blocks, you can put together an outfit that's stylish, feminine and timeless, without a lot of fuss.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFour-time gold medalist Janet Evans has the 'heart' for an Olympic Games comeback
(ARA) - A four-time gold medalist embarking on her fourth Olympic Games at age 40 - that's the name of the game for Janet Evans. Touted as the one to watch at the London 2012 Olympic Games, "Miss Perpetual Motion" steps back into the limelight following a 15-year hiatus from competitive swimming. Evans is committed to following her heart - and also taking care of it - to make sure it's strong enough to take on competitors half her age.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTAnti-aging beauty tips can help you prove that age is just a number
(ARA) - In a society focused on youth, aging remains a fact of life. Thankfully, scientific advancements and product innovations make it easier than ever to diminish dreaded signs of aging.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPopping the question: What you need to know about engagement rings
The stars aligned and you've found the one - now you want to ask her to marry you. It's an exciting and nerve-wracking experience, even if you're already sure she'll say "yes." You'll have a lot to consider, from whether you need to ask for her parents' blessing to how you'll ask the question, and, of course, what kind of ring you'll propose with.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to feel fabulous by expressing your true self
What does it mean to "be fabulous?" You don't need to be a celebrity - you can be a fabulous mom or friend, the co-worker who has a glam glow about her or the teacher or boss who exudes confidence and sass. Being fabulous is really about being who you want to be and expressing your style in every possible way - from the inside, out.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTThis season's healthy holiday entertainment guide with tips from Jennifer Hudson
(ARA) - From cocktail parties to New Year's bashes, 'tis the season for endless celebrations with friends, family and food - and lots of it. Facing multiple parties packed with those indulgent holiday goodies can be a challenge to anyone's weight loss goals. But with the right strategy, you'll be celebrating even after the party has ended.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for staying fit through the holidays
(ARA) - The holiday season is a time for fun, family, and - let's not forget - food. Between work functions, family get-togethers and endless holiday soirees, the sheer amount of cheesy appetizers, buttery entrees and sugar-laden desserts can be overwhelming - especially when you're trying to maintain or lose weight.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFlowers and chocolate again?
(ARA) - Buying the standard bouquet or box of candy for the love of your life doesn't show you've put much thought into the sentiment. In fact, if your valentine is like many others, they are just six weeks into the new year that likely began with all sorts of promises to get fit or lose a few pounds. Will chocolate really say "I love you?" Will flowers convey your devotion?
Thursday, January 12, 2012 6:00 PM CSTKeep fitness off your New Year's resolution list
(ARA) - You've vowed to get fit with the start of each New Year. This year don't. Why not? First, because resolutions don't work. Second, because fitness isn't something you start, it's something you live. Stop starting. Start living.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWinterize your wardrobe without the bulk
(ARA) - It's getting cold out again. Time to store away your summer frocks and bring out your favorite scarves, boots and layers. Women want to stay fashionable in the cooler seasons but they don't want to sacrifice their comfort. And why should they? Whether they're headed to work, watching a football game or enjoying a weekend outdoors, it's important to look great and feel fabulous. Here are a few tips to help women dress warm while looking cool all season long.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow the royal wedding influenced the latest bridal trends
(ARA) - Although the latest Brides American Wedding Study shows the average cost of a wedding in 2010 was $26,501, a decrease of 5 percent from 2009, weddings continue to be big business. But many couples are opting to cut the guest list instead of big ticket items like wedding gowns.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake New Year's resolutions close to home
(ARA) - As each year comes to a close, people begin to make resolutions - typically, vowing to start something new in the year ahead, such as lose weight, get a new job, start volunteering and so on. Making resolutions is easy; the hard part is keeping them. However, there are a few things you can do at home that might actually help you achieve some of your New Year's goals. Start 2012 on the right foot with this list of easy home updates and tips to help conquer your New Year's resolutions.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe power of Arctic skin care
(ARA) - A little pampering can go a long way in keeping your skin looking radiant and youthful. Using natural ingredients from the Arctic area of Scandinavia arms you with beauty benefits to tackle the signs of worry, stress and aging.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSafe, simple and affordable healthy skin tips for men and women
(ARA) - Whether you are male or female, you likely have some key elements to your health routine like exercise, good food, rest and regular medical and dental check-ups. Taking care of your skin probably isn't a part of this important list - but it should be. Your skin is a living organ and a first line of defense against the outside world. Your skin protects you from environmental toxins and pathogens, gets rid of waste, regulates healthy body temperature and is ultimately the picture of health the world sees.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRefresh your New Year's resolution by drinking more water
(ARA) - We're told that drinking water is good for our health. But do we really know why? To get the new year off to a healthy start, here are four reasons why staying hydrated can help you reach your health and lifestyle goals.
Monday, January 2, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhat you need to know before undergoing a cosmetic medical procedure
(ARA) - As the quest for the perfect body and flawless face continues, many consumers have turned to spas, salons and walk-in clinics for cosmetic medical procedures at bargain prices. With the number of these facilities increasing, more consumers are influenced to believe that certain cosmetic procedures are easy, inexpensive and risk-free.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhile 'sitting kills,' new tips and technology keep people moving
(ARA) - It's common knowledge that an inactive and sedentary lifestyle is a sure way to trim years off your life. However, only recently has research been able to confirm that your job is a silent killer, assuming you're sitting at a desk for much of the day. And although many of us try to squeeze in a workout or two a week, the studies also indicate that it's not necessarily enough to offset the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhat you should - and shouldn't - wear to your office holiday party
You just got your invitation to the holiday work party. Your boss will be there, your favorite colleagues - and not-so-favorite colleagues - will be there. Whether you like it or not, you should be there too. And while the holiday party is a great time to unwind with your colleagues in a more relaxed atmosphere, it's still a professional gathering, and your appearance should reflect that.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTime-saving lifestyle changes help you look and feel your best
(ARA) - From the moment your alarm clock rings, the race is on. It's a rush to get ready, a hurry to get to work and a hectic day at the office, all before the evening introduces its own laundry list of tasks. It can feel difficult -- if not impossible -- to find time to care for yourself in the daily hustle and bustle. But at the same time, everyone wants to look good, feel good and be healthy.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWelcome a new pet into your home with these tips
(ARA) - Congratulations! You're a pet owner. Bringing a new pet home is an exciting experience but requires some preparation. That adorable ball of energy covered in fur will interact with just about every inch of living space and your life is about to be enriched in ways you've never dreamed possible.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFood Recipes Entertaining
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What's up in the workplace this holiday season?
Keeping the season fun and festive at work can take on a lot of different forms. Staples.com recently surveyed close to 400 people through social media to find out what was going in their office this holiday season. Here's what people found to be the most important to them this year:
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive reasons to ring in the new year with potatoes
2012 will be the year of the potato, according to Restaurant Hospitality magazine. While the restaurant industry experiments with make-your-own mashers and custom-cut chips, the at-home cook can celebrate the spud for all its many nutritional benefits.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTA guide for festivities, family and food this holiday season
As you prepare to stock up for the busy holiday season, remember to put a case of the funnies at the top of your list to keep you going all season long. With 46 million parties planned this holiday season, preparation and a sense of humor are key. With a few simple steps you can make the most of your time with family and friends as you run the party gauntlet.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGo ahead, be an egghead: fortified eggs benefit the brain
(ARA) - Egg consumption is on the rise, and not just at Easter. According to the American Egg Board, each American eats about 250 eggs annually - 20 eggs more per person every year than people were eating two decades ago. And there are many ways to enjoy eggs of all kinds of varieties, from colors to sizes to omega-3 fortified eggs.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for easy, fun holiday entertaining
(ARA) - Entertaining friends and family during the holiday season is as customary as drinking eggnog and opening presents. These gatherings usually involve investigating new - and delicious - recipes, decorating the house to the hilt, building the perfect collection of holiday tunes to play and finding fun activities to keep everyone engaged throughout.
Thursday, October 13, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive ways to enhance entertaining with a California cheese course
(ARA) - Whether it's preparing for a holiday gathering, watching the big game or planning a dinner party with friends and family, it can be difficult to decide what food to serve. A cheese course is a simple, elegant solution that also saves much-needed kitchen prep time.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't miss a beat in 2012: Get the facts about fats and heart health
(ARA) - With heart disease the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it's time to listen to your heart and get the right kinds of fats into your daily diet. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends consuming polyunsaturated fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, for heart health. But what are these "good fats" and how do you make them a part of your daily nutrition program?
Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:00 PM CSTOut-of-the-chocolate-box ideas for Valentine's Day treats
(ARA) - Valentine's Day usually brings to mind a box of chocolates for your sweetheart. As delicious as solid milk chocolate hearts and raspberry creams are, how about something a little different this year?
Wednesday, January 11, 2012 6:00 PM CSTMix summer sausage in with your holiday leftovers
Energize your holiday spread with creative recipes using the summer sausage found in your favorite gourmet gift baskets from Hickory Farms. You can easily mix and match specialty foods into tasty and unique meals that you and your family will enjoy for days after the holidays.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGarden accents for the holidays
(ARA) - As autumn fades and winter draws near, homes begin to reflect the approaching holiday season. For many of us, the cooler weather also signifies a lifestyle change.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTEat, drink and be merry: Top holiday getaways for a foodie
(ARA) - It seems consumers can always manage to find a slew of excuses to celebrate the end of the year like Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, New Year's and even wrapping up Q4.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGive a gift that goes beyond the ordinary
(ARA) - Are you looking for gift ideas this holiday season that are more than just a gift? How about enhancing a tasteful gift with culture and knowledge to enhance your loved one's stature?
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for creating meaningful new holiday traditions
(ARA) - Holidays are a great time to celebrate traditions with family and friends, and every family has unique activities they love to observe year after year. You can incorporate new traditions into the holidays to bring more memorable fun to your gatherings. Here are some simple tips for creating meaningful new traditions that can bring joy to your holidays every year.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to use Prosciutto di Parma to make holiday entertaining easy
When the holidays leave you short on time and high on stress, entertaining can be daunting. With the right ingredients and a little planning, you can reduce the work load and free up time to spend with loved ones.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEasing the stress of hosting guests during the holiday season
(ARA) - Whether it's for the holidays or another big occasion, hosting people in your home can be both gratifying and stressful. It can be especially tricky when you're entertaining out of town guests for days at a time. By planning ahead, you can avoid some of the common pitfalls that can cause a gathering to go south in a hurry and ensure that both you and your guests have such a great time that everyone will be looking forward to the next get-together once it's all over.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for taking care of your wine collection
(ARA) - Your wine collection is growing and probably so is its value. Based on the results of a recent wine auction, held in Hong Kong in early October, the price of collectible wines is breaking records.
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCustomize your coffee: Create personalized beverages at home
(ARA) - Home personalization has extended to new heights, going beyond the trend of creating customized kitchens to creating customized beverages. Consumers are brewing up personalized specialty coffee drinks on par with those in high-end restaurants and coffee shops. In fact, "do-it-yourself flavor" is among the top 10 beverage trends of the year, according to The Food Channel, a leading online source for food industry trends.
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSurefire recipe for picking the perfect holiday side dishes and dessert
Sure, the main course is the main event of any holiday meal. But don't overlook the importance of great side dishes and desserts. They're the accessories that put the polish on your efforts to outfit your holiday table.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive tips to make snack time easier for moms and kids
What's the first thing kids are looking for when they get home from school? More times than not, it's a snack - and a recent survey shows that moms are more than happy to oblige their children; 90 percent of them think it's important to give their kids a snack between lunch and dinner. However, finding something that is easy to make and can be eaten on the go is also important. Here are a few tips for moms trying to find the perfect snack for the occasion:
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMore Americans looking to food as a source for everyday wellness
(ARA) - It was about 60 years ago that processed foods and fast-food outlets started to become mainstays of the American lifestyle. The fast-food culture that developed tended to view eating as an inconvenience, providing basic fuel for the day and not much else.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake over your boring breakfast with these tempting turkey recipes
(ARA) - Are you starting off your day with a bagel and a coffee ... again? It's easy for a breakfast routine to quickly turn into a breakfast rut. People often sacrifice a well-rounded breakfast that helps fuel morning activities and stave off hunger for a quick breakfast loaded with refined carbohydrates and sugar.
Monday, January 16, 2012 6:00 PM CSTDinner club tips: Mussel up your menu
(ARA) - Dinner clubs have been a popular activity for many Americans for decades. And why not? Combining the best of fabulous food and good friends with whom to share it, dinner clubs (or supper clubs as they are sometimes known) provide a regular opportunity for group members to get together and enjoy delicious meals together.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTJingle shells: How PEI mussels feed the holiday crowd
(ARA) - The holidays are upon us once more and along with office parties and caroling, the season also brings the joy of entertaining and feeding a crowd at home. While it may sometimes seem daunting to feed larger numbers of friends and family that may grace your home, the Canadian Mussel Industry Council has some delicious meal ideas for serving to all of your loved ones this season.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHealthy holiday eating advice for people with diabetes
(ARA) - The holidays can be difficult for people watching their diet. For those with health issues such as diabetes, the dietary minefield of holiday temptations can be especially troublesome.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe secret ingredient to unforgettable holiday get-togethers
As holidays line up and families draw together, the age-old question is how to make these special gatherings unforgettable for all. The answer is so simple, we often don't realize how truly powerful it is: food.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow smart shopping can help transform your lifestyle
(ARA) - Eating right and exercising is something we all know we should do, but the follow-through can be harder than we think. You don't need to take part in an expensive or radical health program to improve your life. Thinking long term and making small changes like shopping smarter and taking a closer look at what we eat can help improve our lives.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDreaming of a stress-free holiday party
(ARA) - The holidays are the perfect time to reconnect and mingle with family and friends. However, the stress of hosting holiday get-togethers can sometimes be discouraging. This year, avoid a festivity fiasco by keeping in mind the following five preparation tips:
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake Halloween frightfully easy and affordable
(ARA) - Halloween decorations and costumes are meant to be frightfully fun, but the price tag for pulling together the big night doesn't have to be scary.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTChic holiday entertaining for less
(ARA) - A beautiful holiday table can be the centerpiece of any celebration. However, many hostesses are discouraged by the idea and potential cost of fancy linens, expensive serving ware and a perfect centerpiece.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to stay heartburn-free
(ARA) - For heartburn sufferers, rich food and drink at can be trouble. Contrary to its name, heartburn, which affects 60 million Americans at least once a month, has nothing to do with the heart. It's a digestive problem that is also called reflux esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when contents in the stomach flow back into the esophagus. This happens when the valve between the stomach and the esophagus does not close properly.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGift Ideas
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Great gifts for the holiday season
(ARA) - The holiday season is upon us. With your goal to wrap up all your holiday shopping by June long since passed, the pressure to find that impossibly perfect gift for everyone on your list now has an overbearing timestamp as well.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to make sure you get great Black Friday deals
Going into stores, you'd think that the holiday shopping season starts before Halloween, with the way they move out costumes and move in decorations and wrapping paper. When it comes to gift buying, however, savvy shoppers have one day in their sights: Black Friday.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWish-list wisdom: Three things holiday shoppers need to know to get it right this year
Holiday shopping is full of challenges, from the crowds and traffic, to finding the right gift for everyone on the list. Thankfully, a new study on what gift seekers want is helping to make giving easier this year. According to the findings - and expert advice - here are three things all shoppers should know before they buy:
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFind affordable holiday gifts at any price
This holiday season, save and share the warmth of holiday gift giving by sending affordable gift baskets, personalized gifts, gift cards and more for the ultimate way to spread cheer at a reasonable price. The holidays are about giving gifts of meaningful and sentimental value, not about breaking the bank. Use this guide to affordable holiday gift giving to ensure a happy and stress-free holiday season.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBirding gifts for the holidays
Birdwatching is the fastest growing hobby in the United States, and is enjoyed by a variety of individuals. Kids enjoy seeing birds in their play spaces and learning about new animals, while gardeners enjoy attracting birds with their blooming flowers. Others may have a flair for identifying feathered friends and keeping track of the different visitors they have to their yard. Gifting bird feeders and bird feeding accessories is a no-fail way to provide an enjoyable and entertaining experience to someone you love, whether they're 5 years old or 55 years old.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe art of gift giving: It's the meaning that counts
Whether you're shopping for the holidays or expressing a sentiment to let a friend know you care, it can be difficult to find the perfect gift that truly conveys how you feel.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive no-tech, imagination-boosting toys every child should have
(ARA) - Every year, lists fly around the Internet and airwaves, parents line up in stores and everyone talks about what the season's hottest toys will be. All the chatter can make it seem like everyone's forgotten the single most enduring "toy" at the disposal of every child - imagination.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGive the gift of U.S. Savings Bonds
(ARA) - Buying U.S. Savings Bonds for loved ones has been a holiday tradition for more than 75 years and is a unique part of our nation's history.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGiving green: Natural ways to spread holiday cheer
(ARA) - The holidays are a time for celebrating, reflecting on the past year and exchanging gifts with friends and family. However, unique and meaningful ideas can be a daunting task. Gifts that keep giving and growing are a perfect solution. Plants are not just beautiful, but also cheer up any space and even improve air quality in a home or office space.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTechnology gifts for the whole family
(ARA) - Buying holiday gifts can be a fun and easy experience when you go to the right place, and there is a certain joy that you get when you see someone opening a gift they've been waiting for all year. No matter the age of the person you're buying for, there is one kind of product that is perfect for everyone: technology. Whether it's new headphones, a USB flash drive for a stocking stuffer, or an e-reader, there is something for everyone.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGift cards help keep your holiday spending (and sanity) in check
(ARA) - Just like clockwork, after indulging with family and friends on Thanksgiving, the holiday shopping season was off and running, with eager gift seekers lining up and clicking through for Black Friday and Cyber Monday finds. But as the holidays inch closer, the seasonal spending spectacular can start to take its toll. The stress to select the perfect gift grows, and that pressure can cause you to choose something that may be outside of your budget just to check it off a list. Giving a great gift can be easier and more financially friendly than scouring the racks and websites. Gift cards are a perfect option to keep your holiday spending, and your sanity, in check while also giving your loved ones what they want.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat's on your holiday shopping list?
(ARA) - Holiday shopping lists often contain toys, gift cards and other material items that the recipients can enjoy and put to good use. But your shopping list can go much further to not only benefit the recipients, but also a great cause.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for shopping smarter this holiday season
(ARA) - If you're like most Americans, you'll be approaching this year's biggest gift-buying season a bit more cautiously. With ongoing economic uncertainties, shoppers are expected to take a different approach to holiday shopping this year, preferring gifts that provide long-term real value versus those that provide an immediate, but short-lived "wow" effect.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for a beautiful holiday - even at the 11th hour
(ARA) - As holiday decor springs up and seasonal tunes begin to flood the airwaves, it's time to embrace the most wonderful time of the year. If you didn't line up on Black Friday, and decking the halls is something you typically save for the last-minute, not to worry.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFinding the perfect gift for grandma and grandpa
(ARA) - With the holidays approaching, shoppers are making their lists and checking them twice. Undoubtedly, there are some blanks, as buying for grandparents often stymies children and grandchildren alike.
Thursday, November 10, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSmart holiday gift ideas that make busy lives easier
(ARA) - As the holiday season approaches, many people start wondering how they're going to get everything done. From shopping for gifts and decorating the house to hosting parties and visiting relatives - and more - the list feels endless. And adding all of these things to an already hectic lifestyle can seem next to impossible.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive ideas for practical yet fun gifts for kids
(ARA) - The building anticipation, the frantic ripping of wrapping paper and the discovery of what those colorful packages hold - holidays and birthdays are great times to be a kid. But as any parent can attest, gifts received during holidays sometimes end up gathering cobwebs in the following months.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTop five gifts for her under $50
(ARA) - Finding a perfect gift doesn't always mean spending a ton of cash. Whether it's a handy gadget, a fashion accessory or a day's worth of spa-quality pampering, the following gift ideas for women are all available for $50 or less.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTValentine's Day gift-giving tips
(ARA) - Giving your significant other the right gift can make or break your Valentine's celebration. If you're also giving something to your best friend, mom and children, you may need a little help finding the perfect token.
Sunday, January 15, 2012 6:00 PM CSTStart the holidays right with these stocking stuffer ideas
When the holidays come around, it's not only a great time to gather with friends and family to enjoy the season, it's also a perfect opportunity to give a little something that says you care. As we've learned over the past few years, giving the biggest, most expensive gifts isn't always the best way to do that. Instead, heartfelt gifts with meaning make a big impression.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTCreative gift ideas to treat your office intern
Show your gratitude to office interns for all of their hard work and dedication with gourmet food gift baskets that are filled with foods they can take back to their college dorm. Or surprise them with gift cards and personalized gifts to show you care. With these simple tips and proven crowd-pleasers from Hickory Farms, it is easy to show your gratitude to college interns and spread holiday cheer.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSafeguard your privacy while shopping online this holiday season
(ARA) - With each passing year, more Americans turn to the Internet to do their holiday shopping. In fact, more than 52 million people (37 percent of American consumers) shopped online from work during last year's holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThe history of Christmas cards
No, it wasn't aunt Betty who first thought to send out a holiday greeting adorned with a photo and a rundown of the family's activities over the past year. The tradition of Christmas cards started well before anyone alive today was even born - but it keeps getting stronger every year.
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHoliday gift-giving tips for the teen on your list
(ARA) - Shopping for the perfect gift for kids and teenagers can be tough. It's hard to know what they're going to like, especially without a "wish list" in hand as you head out to the stores.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTUse your photos to make personalized holiday gifts that last a lifetime
(ARA) - Finding that perfect holiday gift for friends and family is always challenging. Clothes are difficult unless you know the perfect size and style. You can miss the mark on books and music if you're not intimately familiar with the genres that interest the recipient. One type of gift that will never go out of style is the personal, handmade present.
Thursday, October 13, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for passing down family photos in the digital age
(ARA) - For many years, photography meant developing a roll of film at the local store, sliding your glossy prints into a photo album and then placing them on your bookshelf. Digital photography changed all that, and now your photos live on computers, hard drives, CDs, USB drives and even your phone. But just because photos rarely go into leather-bound albums doesn't mean that they're any less precious. The evolution of photography has changed the ways in which we use photos - and it makes sense to think differently about how to preserve and pass on your treasured memories.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTOn Valentine's Day, tradition beats tech for your sweetheart's gift
(ARA) - Like most things in modern life, romance has gone online. People update their love lives by setting their status to "in a relationship," "engaged" or "it's complicated" and online dating is now as common as getting set up by friends - if not more so. However, when it comes to telling your special someone how you feel about them on Valentine's Day, think traditional, rather than digital.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to find the right gift for the hard-to-please teen
(ARA) - Finding the perfect gift for teenagers can be a notoriously difficult task. Their likes and dislikes can often change within seconds based on the latest trends and fads.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRevolutionize family night with the newest technology
(ARA) - The concept of reserving one night periodically for a family night is one that goes back generations, whether playing different card games, watching a movie, board games or games that only require creativity, like charades. While those activities are still household staples, family night now involves technology as much as it does creativity - and with family holiday parties coming, finding new and innovative ways to keep everyone entertained are a must.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGreat gifts for teens for around $20
(ARA) - Teens are always dreaming big around the holidays, and see this time of year as the perfect opportunity to put big-ticket electronics or sought-after concert tickets on their wish lists. So, for many parents, holiday shopping for their teens can seem a bit daunting.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGreen Living
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Green living plus green savings: an efficient equation for today's homeowners
(ARA) - Across the nation, both building professionals and consumers are embracing the idea of sustainable building practices. This practice follows a process that is environmentally responsible and resource efficient throughout a building's life cycle: from design to construction, operation to maintenance and renovation, to eventually, demolition. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability and comfort.
Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThree green trends for 2012 home remodeling
(ARA) - For some homeowners, remodeling projects are regular occurrences to keep their homes looking fresh. Sometimes, that means smaller changes like a new coat of paint or changing a light fixture. Other times, more substantial changes are needed. Determining those changes can be a challenge, but looking at the potential return on investment is a great way to prioritize.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive ways to eat local throughout the year
(ARA) - Fall is a great time for enthusiasts of fresh and local food. Farmers' markets are overflowing with tasty produce at harvest time, and if you've worked long and hard on your home garden, it's time to reap the rewards. Fresh food is harder to come by once the last leaves fall and the frost sets in, but there are still a number of ways you can keep your commitment to eating locally alive year-round.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTLiving green outside of the home
(ARA) - Do you know if your apartment building, place of employment, or favorite hotel is operating efficiently? Even the seemingly minor decisions we make each day can have a significant impact on our health, finances and surrounding environment. While most people know about the small changes they can make at home to have a positive impact, including using natural products, recycling and reducing waste and installing efficient appliances and fixtures, they may not know how easy it is to make the same environmentally friendly choices outside the home. Energy efficiency and water conservation continue to gain visibility in the commercial building sector, too.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTEase your winter heating bill with a call to your plumbing and heating contractor
(ARA) - Winter will soon bring plenty of cold and snowy weather. Families will turn up the thermostat, add an extra blanket to the beds, and hit the local home improvement store for needed supplies to seal windows and doors.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTComposting, crafts and cuisine: Using what's in your garden
(ARA) - The cooler temperatures and changing colors of fall draw many people outdoors to explore what nature has to offer. The summer harvest has made room for many cold weather crops for those in the north, and tomatoes are just beginning to blossom for those in the southwest. Regardless of where you live, the fall garden still offers a lot to be used and discovered.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBattling ice and snow? Choose the right weapons
(ARA) - Most homeowners are accustomed to using salt to clear ice from sidewalks and driveways in the winter. But over the past decade, the variety of ice melt products has greatly increased. What used to be a simple salt purchase has now become a confusing choice between salt, salt alternatives and salt blends.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to create your perfect shower
(ARA) - From an invigorating spray that kick-starts the morning to an enveloping waterfall that washes away a long day, today's showers offer luxurious experiences to meet every desire. With a little planning and the right products, you can create a personal oasis. Even small choices, like showerheads and accessories, can instantly upgrade any bathroom.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTLumens, CFLs and LEDs: A light bulb guide for new regulations
(ARA) - You've probably been hearing the talk of federal light bulb regulations for years, but in January 2012, the talk will become reality, and these regulations will begin to take effect. While California residents began the transition in January 2011, the federally mandated phase-out of less efficient incandescent light bulbs begins with the 100-watt light bulb on Jan. 1, 2012, so now is the time for the rest of the country to make the switch to more efficient bulbs.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 7:00 PM CDTItems to put on your home winterization checklist
(ARA) - Preparing your home for cold weather is important for your comfort this winter as well as your utility bills. When you're making your winterization to-do list, be sure to include these simple updates that will help prevent costly damage to your home and provide you with the peace of mind that you're saving energy, water and money.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTStaying green for the holidays
(ARA) - Winter is quickly approaching and the holidays are in full swing once again. Gift-giving, parties, baking goodies and being with loved ones are great fun, but can often lead to waste and excess. This year, try celebrating using a few green ideas and give yourself and Mother Earth a gift.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips to make a toddler's room sustainable
(ARA) - Whether you've been taking steps toward green living or you're a newbie and want to jump start your efforts and reduce your carbon footprint on earth, one area of opportunity is your toddler's room.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFour ways to achieve a luxurious look with an affordable price tag
(ARA) - It's not uncommon for homeowners to get the itch to move when they've been in their house awhile. While just picking up and moving isn't an option for most of us, there's another approach that people are taking: Refreshing their house to create a high-impact, high-style look, but doing it in a way that's cost effective.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTA blanket for your house: energy-efficient, insulated siding
(ARA) - With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however, one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home's framing.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDemand for healthier building options drives the rediscovery of ceramic tile
(ARA) - If you've ever had new carpeting installed in your house and found yourself suffering from a nagging cough for days afterward, you've experienced the effect some home improvement materials can have on your health.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTArmy reserve sustainability and energy security: Sustaining the environment and supporting the nation
(ARA) - See if you can pass this simple quiz about energy security and sustainability: What do the following have in common?
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSave money with these energy efficiency tips
(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone's mind this winter season. Between the holiday expenses, colder temperatures and tight budgets, finding ways to reduce costs can be a bit of a challenge. If you're looking for ways to save, look at your home, and see if you can improve on your energy efficiency - thereby keeping a few extra dollars in your pocket.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHealth And Wellness
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Five must-have fitness tools
(ARA) - Everyone wants to look and feel great, and selecting the right workout gear can make all the difference when pursuing a life of health and fitness. The five tools below are designed to help individuals achieve their wellness goals, whether kick starting a new workout regime or taking a current routine to the next level.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips for fun, safe winter frolics with Fido
(ARA) - Even the best behaved-dog can temporarily forget his manners when faced with the many distractions of going on a walk. When the ground is covered with snow and ice, Fido's momentary lapse can mean a nasty fall for you. Properly equipping yourself - and taking some safety precautions - can help ensure you stay on your feet, and that your walk remains enjoyable for both you and your best friend.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to protect your heart and increase your energy levels
(ARA) - One of the secrets to enjoying life while aging is to take care of your heart. Heart health is important for Americans to discuss with their doctors, as heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in the United States.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhile 'sitting kills,' new tips and technology keep people moving
(ARA) - It's common knowledge that an inactive and sedentary lifestyle is a sure way to trim years off your life. However, only recently has research been able to confirm that your job is a silent killer, assuming you're sitting at a desk for much of the day. And although many of us try to squeeze in a workout or two a week, the studies also indicate that it's not necessarily enough to offset the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDeck the halls ... carefully please
(ARA) - Each year, 420 home fires occur during the holiday season, claiming the lives of 21 people and injuring 43, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe dirty truth about fleas
(ARA) - When fleas are spotted in the home, it's our pets that take the blame. But did you know that for every flea you see, there could be a much bigger problem hiding in the bedding, carpets, furniture and floorboards of your home? The truth is, flea eggs, maggot-like larvae and pupae represent 95 percent of a flea infestation, and they thrive not on your pet, but in the places your pet likes to snuggle - on the couch, under the porch, even in your bed.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThe beautiful truth of aging - 4 steps for a healthy and active mind
(ARA) - With age comes the inevitable anxiety of mental decline. A common misconception is brain health is predetermined and can't be changed - it's the "you're stuck with what you got" notion. But experts suggest brain health can be positively influenced throughout different stages in life.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't let sore feet trip up your travel plans
(ARA) - Whether you travel for business or pleasure, whether you fly, drive or take a train, there's one other mode of transportation you'll almost certainly use on your trip: your feet.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat's on your holiday shopping list?
(ARA) - Holiday shopping lists often contain toys, gift cards and other material items that the recipients can enjoy and put to good use. But your shopping list can go much further to not only benefit the recipients, but also a great cause.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMove over apples: For some patients, an aspirin-a-day may keep the doctor away
(ARA) - The statistics are staggering: As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular (or heart) disease accounts for more than 2,200 deaths per day, or one every 39 seconds. Furthermore, the American Heart Association (AHA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently estimate that every year about 785,000 Americans will have their first heart attack, and another 470,000 will have a recurrent attack.
Thursday, January 26, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhy taking care of your emotional health is important while unemployed
(ARA) - It seems that nearly every newscast these days includes some discussion of wide-scale joblessness in the U.S. and discussion of economic crises at home and abroad. The American worker has been taken on a roller coaster ride over the course of the last few years that has left many in a tailspin when it comes to their emotional health and their jobs.
Monday, January 2, 2012 6:00 PM CSTManaging Bipolar Disorder: Put Your Mental Health at the Top of Your Resolution List
(ARA) - With the beginning of each year, millions of Americans commit to New Year's resolutions. This year, if you are living with bipolar disorder, don't forget to place managing the condition at the top of your list of resolutions. It's a great time to develop a new attitude focused on working to successfully manage the condition.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTMedication safety for children: important advice for caregivers
(ARA) - Each year, an estimated 71,000 children are treated in emergency rooms for accidental medication poisonings, many of which are caused by dosing mistakes. Thankfully, while health care professionals or poison control resources resolve most issues, extreme cases that go untreated can result in complications, particularly in very young children.
Thursday, January 12, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhat you need to know when stomach flu strikes your home
(ARA) - With the stomach flu season upon us, parents know that the stomach flu could be lurking on any doorknob or shared toy. Unfortunately, what parents don't know could be making the symptoms of stomach flu worse for little ones.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhat 26 million Americans should know about diabetes and oral health
(ARA) - People living with diabetes need to take care of and monitor their health very closely. While monitoring their blood glucose is usually top of mind, the 26 million Americans living with diabetes may be surprised to learn that 95 percent have a form of gum disease. This is compared to only 50 percent of the general population. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop serious gum disease as people without diabetes.
Sunday, November 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow students can meet the challenge of the evolving health care industry
(ARA) - Health care reform has expanded access to health care insurance coverage to more than 30 million new patients beginning in 2014, stretching the resources of health care facilities nationwide. Meanwhile, the introduction of new regulations and technological innovations, as well as the rapid adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), have added new layers to an already complex industry.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012 6:00 PM CSTGut check: Digestive health tips from nutrition expert Keri Glassman
(ARA) - A new survey from The Dannon Company, conducted by StrategyOne, reveals that Americans are making health-conscious decisions about the foods they eat, with six in 10 saying they have made food purchases driven by health concerns. In particular, 43 percent say they have purchased a food to help their digestive system. "While this finding reveals a positive step for many Americans, it also means that more than half of us aren't paying close enough attention to our digestive health", said Dr. Miguel Freitas, Director of Health Affairs for Dannon.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRaise your hand to Stop Diabetes
(ARA) - November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and management.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFour-time gold medalist Janet Evans has the 'heart' for an Olympic Games comeback
(ARA) - A four-time gold medalist embarking on her fourth Olympic Games at age 40 - that's the name of the game for Janet Evans. Touted as the one to watch at the London 2012 Olympic Games, "Miss Perpetual Motion" steps back into the limelight following a 15-year hiatus from competitive swimming. Evans is committed to following her heart - and also taking care of it - to make sure it's strong enough to take on competitors half her age.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHealth plans don't just pay the bills - they can help keep you healthy
(ARA) - Many people think of their health insurer or health plan as the company that pays their medical bills when they get sick or visit the doctor. They may not realize that their health plan can be so much more - a place to find health and wellness programs that can help them stay healthy or help manage ongoing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTell diabetes 'not me' this winter and holiday season
(ARA) - Each winter, the cold weather and holiday festivities can bring special challenges to the nearly 26 million Americans living with diabetes - and the 79 million with prediabetes who are at grave risk of developing it.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThis flu season Brandi Chastain encourages families: Don't wait to vaccinate
(ARA) - With schools in session, it's a busy time of year for most families, and there's plenty of stress without having to worry about catching the flu. To help raise awareness about the importance of flu vaccination as the best defense against the flu, soccer legend and mom Brandi Chastain has teamed up with MedImmune for the third year in a row on a national campaign called "When Will You Pick?," encouraging families to make flu vaccination a priority as soon as vaccine is available each year.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive must-make health-related New Year's resolutions
(ARA) - If you're not planning on adding "lose weight" to your list of New Year's resolutions, you're in the minority. In fact, losing weight is one of the most commonly made resolutions, year after year. But it's definitely not the only health resolution you should consider making for 2012.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips to keep the holidays happy and healthy for asthma and allergy sufferers
(ARA) - For millions of allergy sufferers, "allergy season" doesn't really end when warm weather leaves. With more time spent indoors where allergens like pet dander and volatile organic compounds linger, cold weather months can be just as unpleasant for people with allergies as spring and summer when pollen fills the air.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMake over your boring breakfast with these tempting turkey recipes
(ARA) - Are you starting off your day with a bagel and a coffee ... again? It's easy for a breakfast routine to quickly turn into a breakfast rut. People often sacrifice a well-rounded breakfast that helps fuel morning activities and stave off hunger for a quick breakfast loaded with refined carbohydrates and sugar.
Monday, January 16, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFighting arthritis? Exercise tips for all ability levels
(ARA) - When it comes to fighting arthritis, there's no arguing with the axiom "move it or lose it." Movement and physical activity have been proven effective in relieving arthritis pain and, in some cases, delaying the onset of symptoms. But if you've been recently diagnosed with arthritis, or have been battling the disorder without much success, you may be unsure just what, or how much, physical activity will help you.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhen your period signals a problem and when to see your gynecologist
(ARA) - Your period comes at the same time every month - except when it doesn't and you're not pregnant. Millions of women wonder why it doesn't always run like clockwork ... and when to see a doctor. Truth is, there's nothing fun about getting your period. Still, when it arrives on time a lot of women think of it as a sign that all is well on the inside.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCentenarians can leave a lasting legacy by donating DNA to science
(ARA) - Living to 100 years old is a remarkable feat in itself, but now 100 centenarians will have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that could radically change medical care for generations to come.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTRegistered nurses encouraged to pursue bachelor's degrees
(ARA) - As many industries scaled back and cut resources in the last year, health care continued to grow, adding an average of 26,000 jobs per month, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. This trend is likely to continue as technological innovations and new regulations prompt additional oversight within the health care setting.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012 6:00 PM CSTBreaking the Cycle: A Weight Loss Success Story
At just 24 years old, Heather Latif found herself upwards of 230 pounds and diagnosed with high blood pressure - the same condition she's watched her mother and grandmother suffer from her entire life. Heather had been uncomfortable with her weight for years, but was stunned to be facing this serious health concern at such a young age.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHome Decorating
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Don't shop till you drop: tips to make paint supply shopping easier
(ARA) - All painting projects begin the same way - with a trip to the hardware store or home center to gather supplies. But you're going to need much more than paint and a paintbrush. As you think about what you'd like to make over in your home with paint, take the "pain" out of paint supply shopping with helpful hints and tips from celebrity designer, Lisa LaPorta.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFour ways to achieve a luxurious look with an affordable price tag
(ARA) - It's not uncommon for homeowners to get the itch to move when they've been in their house awhile. While just picking up and moving isn't an option for most of us, there's another approach that people are taking: Refreshing their house to create a high-impact, high-style look, but doing it in a way that's cost effective.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFour easy DIY 'cheats' that will look like you spent a bundle
(ARA) - Did you ever watch a home improvement show team transform a drab room into something spectacular using a shoestring budget and less time than it takes you to clean out your closet? Ever wonder how they did it? Here's the secret: they cheat. And you can too.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFashion for the home: Hardwoods are key design element in contemporary furnishings
(ARA) - From the runway to the living room, hot trends in home fashion can take the style of a room from simple to stunning. Incorporating trendy furniture into home decor is an easy way to add style without having to make costly renovations.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTIdeas for 're-feathering' your empty nest on the cheap
(ARA) - The kids are finally on their own and you're ready to reclaim some spaces in your home that were previously dedicated to child's play. Even though as empty-nesters you probably won't spend so much on food, education and gas money, you're still not ready to go into debt to redecorate the once-kid-centric rooms in your home.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 6:00 PM CSTEscape with an at-home relaxation retreat
(ARA) - With tight schedules and even tighter budgets, it's becoming more difficult for people to indulge in the luxury of a day spa visit or relaxing vacation. Recent studies show when it comes to life's little luxuries, like that sliver of cheesecake, we can't resist the urge to give ourselves a treat from time to time.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for mounting that greatest of holiday gifts: a flat screen TV
(ARA) - Flat screen TVs are sure to be a popular holiday gift this year, as they've been for the past several holiday seasons. Last year, flat screen prices tumbled before the holiday shopping season, and retailers are likely to offer deals again this year.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDemand for healthier building options drives the rediscovery of ceramic tile
(ARA) - If you've ever had new carpeting installed in your house and found yourself suffering from a nagging cough for days afterward, you've experienced the effect some home improvement materials can have on your health.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSeasonal sense: Using scent, sight and sound to stimulate holiday spirits
(ARA) - From baking cookies with loved ones to caroling through the neighborhood or celebrating with family and friends, fond memories of holiday traditions abound. Each year, scents, sights and sounds promote the season's spirit - continuing long-standing traditions and creating new memories.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRing in 2012 with renewed home decor
(ARA) - New Year's is a time when many people commit to starting fresh or developing some positive changes in their lives. As you consider what you will change in 2012, think about where you spend the majority of your time. Your surroundings can greatly influence your mood and actions, and a refreshed interior can help you step forward into a new and improved lifestyle. Enjoying life more in 2012 could start with just a few simple updates to your home.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTAffordable mini makeovers for the holidays
(ARA) - The season for indoor gatherings has arrived and everyone is looking for ways to bring the excitement into their homes. With tighter budgets available for remodeling, choosing paint for your mini-make over projects may be the smartest way to "go new."
Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to make your holiday event stand out
(ARA) - When you open your home to family and friends this holiday season, you want to give your guests the best impression possible. But, it's likely that you might not have everything that you need to accommodate your visitors.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSimple ways to personalize your holiday decor
(ARA) - What do the holidays mean to you? It's a special time of year for many people, and many of us share similar tastes and traditions when it comes to how we decorate and celebrate. But if you're craving something different this year, personalizing your holiday decor can be a great way to put a fresh face on the season.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSavvy bathroom-storage solutions
(ARA) - While the bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the home, it is also the area where we store a multitude of items, from cosmetics to cleaners, laundry to linens. With this in mind, it's easy for your bath to feel more like crowded, cluttered chaos than the spa sanctuary we long for it to be.
Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTrend watch: Color and customization trends for your kitchen
(ARA) - If you want your home to reflect your personal style, why not start in the kitchen? The kitchen, commonly the most popular room in the house for everyday life and entertaining, doesn't have to be cookie cutter with coordinating color schemes. Current trends give homeowners leeway to add personal flair to the kitchen with bursts of color, unique designs and unexpected patterns.
Thursday, January 26, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSpring into 2012 with the hottest colors for your home
(ARA) - As you anticipate what exciting things this year will bring, you might notice your home decor has been left behind. Fortunately, you can easily beautify and modernize your home using hints from design experts on the hottest color trends. Don't worry that you'll need to break the bank - simply updating the shades of your walls can create the feel of an entire new home without the cost of buying one. And you'll enjoy starting the year in fresh, contemporary surroundings.
Sunday, January 22, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to turn your first home into a decorator's showcase
(ARA) - Whether you've signed a lease agreement or purchased a house, moving into your first home is an exciting time. For many people, it's their first opportunity to express their personal style by decorating their own space.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTStaying green for the holidays
(ARA) - Winter is quickly approaching and the holidays are in full swing once again. Gift-giving, parties, baking goodies and being with loved ones are great fun, but can often lead to waste and excess. This year, try celebrating using a few green ideas and give yourself and Mother Earth a gift.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTop home decor trends for 2012
(ARA) - From warm woods and creative colors to memorable murals and tailored textures, interior designers and industry experts predict 2012 will offer a multitude of options for those interested in giving their homes a fresh look. Even better for today's cost-conscious consumers is that many of the trends are easy and inexpensive.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFour easy ways to warm up your home decor
(ARA) - As the chill of winter sets in, your home interior may be lacking the warmth and comfort you'd prefer. Fortunately, creating an inviting atmosphere does not require huge amounts of time or money. And you don't need to be a professional interior designer - or even have experience in decorating - to transform your home into a welcoming haven. To bring your decor into the season and give your home noticeable appeal, follow a few easy tips.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTVanity sanity: Organize wisely to bring style and space to your bathroom
(ARA) - It's the room where you start and end your day, so it should be one of the most enjoyable places in your home. But, most of the time, your bathroom is not the relaxing retreat you hoped it would be. Whether it is overrun with towels and toiletries - or is tough to keep clean with smudged mirrors and faucets - today's bathrooms are in need of some serious updates and organization. Luckily, a few simple tips and tricks can bring style and sanity to your bathroom vanity in no time.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGet ready for the holidays with easy tips for around the house
(ARA) - 'Tis the season for gathering and celebrating. If you're hosting a party or get together with family or friends, get your home party-ready in no time with these simple tips that will be a breeze to tackle.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSmart ways to use credit when redecorating
(ARA) - When your redecorating project is done, you want everyone who sees it to think it looks like a million bucks. But woe to your wallet - and possibly your credit - if you overspend to achieve that look.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe No. 1 countertop secret for 2012
(ARA) - Everyone loves granite for kitchen and bath countertops, but many homeowners find this option for adding value to their home, too pricey. When considering a kitchen update I found that granite typically costs $50 to $100 per square foot (including installation).
Wednesday, January 18, 2012 6:00 PM CSTLumens, CFLs and LEDs: A light bulb guide for new regulations
(ARA) - You've probably been hearing the talk of federal light bulb regulations for years, but in January 2012, the talk will become reality, and these regulations will begin to take effect. While California residents began the transition in January 2011, the federally mandated phase-out of less efficient incandescent light bulbs begins with the 100-watt light bulb on Jan. 1, 2012, so now is the time for the rest of the country to make the switch to more efficient bulbs.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for a beautiful holiday - even at the 11th hour
(ARA) - As holiday decor springs up and seasonal tunes begin to flood the airwaves, it's time to embrace the most wonderful time of the year. If you didn't line up on Black Friday, and decking the halls is something you typically save for the last-minute, not to worry.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCreate a tablescape to remember
(ARA) - Holiday traditions may vary from home to home, but one of the most cherished sites each year is universal. The holiday tablescape: the place where all the luscious treats of the season await all the special people in your lives.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSimplify and organize: the hottest trends in home improvement
(ARA) - With the economy remaining uncertain, homeowners are tending to stay in place and upgrade their homes, rather than move up to something newer or larger. Just as economic conditions evolve, however, so does this housing trend. Simplifying and gaining control are now the hot incarnations of the "staying put" trend.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEasy-to-change seasonal decorating ideas
(ARA) - When spring arrives with its bright sunshine, fresh air, vibrant colors and light, do you find yourself regretting the decorating decisions you made last fall or winter? It's natural to incorporate the season into your home decor, and the best way to do that is with design touches that can change as easily - and quickly - as the seasons themselves.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHoliday hazards to avoid to help keep pets safe
(ARA) - The holiday season is filled with a frenzy of activities from decorating the house to baking sweets to gift buying and wrapping. Adding decorations to your mantel or front yard adds a festive look to your house, but pet owners should also take a moment during the busy decorating season to examine how they make the season bright - and safe - for their pets and families.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHome Improvement
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A new twist on bathroom basics
(ARA) - According to a recent study by Bath Fitter, 84 percent of consumers want to change something about their current bathroom, and less than 44 percent are satisfied with their current space. No need to fret; there are simple ways to add a creative twist to the bath just by switching or adding a few items.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGreet holiday guests with a warm, stylish, sensible home
(ARA) - Twinkling lights, fragrant wreaths and freshly baked cookies help set the stage, but holiday guests truly feel at home when you provide a warm, cozy environment.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEase your winter heating bill with a call to your plumbing and heating contractor
(ARA) - Winter will soon bring plenty of cold and snowy weather. Families will turn up the thermostat, add an extra blanket to the beds, and hit the local home improvement store for needed supplies to seal windows and doors.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTItems to put on your home winterization checklist
(ARA) - Preparing your home for cold weather is important for your comfort this winter as well as your utility bills. When you're making your winterization to-do list, be sure to include these simple updates that will help prevent costly damage to your home and provide you with the peace of mind that you're saving energy, water and money.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTA guide to the best ice melters for tough winters
(ARA) - Most homeowners reach for rock salt to clear their driveways and sidewalks during winter. It's economical and reliable, and it easily melts ice in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit to keep driveways and sidewalks clear and safe.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTake steps now to keep indoor air clean throughout winter
(ARA) - When the winter winds start to howl, it's a natural response to want to close your home up tightly. To stay warm and avoid wasting energy, you close the windows - or even seal them with window film -- find ways to stop air from leaking in through cracks and under doors, and then put your heating system to work. But when those instincts kick in, remember that what you're doing is sealing air inside your home.
Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 PM CDT2012 homes will mix old and new designs under one (smaller) roof
(ARA) - Today's consumer mindset is steeped in common sense and careful decisions. When making a purchase, individuals aren't looking to accumulate "stuff." They're looking to buy an experience. That experiential purchasing behavior is especially true when it comes to selecting items for the home. Current home decorating is not about flashy, over-the-top design; rather, it's about decorating for real life - a home that's smaller, more well-equipped and custom-made for its owners' lifestyles.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBathroom remodeling ideas: from small to total overhaul
(ARA) - Ready to give your bathroom a facelift, but can't decide what changes to make? From tubs to toilets to tile, the sky is the limit when it comes to bathroom renovations, even if budget is not.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSavvy bathroom-storage solutions
(ARA) - While the bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the home, it is also the area where we store a multitude of items, from cosmetics to cleaners, laundry to linens. With this in mind, it's easy for your bath to feel more like crowded, cluttered chaos than the spa sanctuary we long for it to be.
Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFlooring experts look ahead to what's next
A hot topic for hundreds of experts gathered at the recent 2011 Remodeling Show in Chicago was trends in wood flooring. Now in its 20th year, the show is the premier event in the nation for remodelers to look to what lies ahead in their industry.
Monday, October 31, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSix factors to consider before installing a gas fireplace
(ARA) - A gas fireplace can add ambiance and warmth to any room, and with the cold weather, you might be dreaming of adding one in your home. Because purchasing a fireplace is not something we do every day, there are some important things to consider.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to create your perfect shower
(ARA) - From an invigorating spray that kick-starts the morning to an enveloping waterfall that washes away a long day, today's showers offer luxurious experiences to meet every desire. With a little planning and the right products, you can create a personal oasis. Even small choices, like showerheads and accessories, can instantly upgrade any bathroom.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhy winter is the right time to plan outdoor updates
(ARA) - Does the bitter cold weather have you dreaming of warm days spending time with friends and family in your backyard? The cold may keep us indoors, but professionals in the landscape and remodeling industry are still thinking about the outdoors and use the winter months to plan spring projects, and so should you.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPlan now for home improvement throughout the year
(ARA) - If you've finished making your holiday gift list, don't put the pen and paper away just yet. While the holidays take up a lot of attention right now, it's also a great time to look a bit further into the future. With the new year just around the corner, planning for home improvement projects now can help you prioritize and budget.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTAchieve winter home comfort
(ARA) - If you're a homeowner, you probably know that home winterization is essential if you want to increase energy efficiency and comfort during the winter. In addition to the usual quick fixes, there are a few important tasks to keep in mind when preparing both the interior and exterior of your home for the harsh weather ahead.
Sunday, January 8, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHelp protect your home from rodents this winter
(ARA) - The cold temperatures are settling in for the winter months, and if you're not careful, rodents can also settle into your home. Your house - especially your kitchen - offers everything rats and mice are looking for: food, water and warmth.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSimplify and organize: the hottest trends in home improvement
(ARA) - With the economy remaining uncertain, homeowners are tending to stay in place and upgrade their homes, rather than move up to something newer or larger. Just as economic conditions evolve, however, so does this housing trend. Simplifying and gaining control are now the hot incarnations of the "staying put" trend.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRemodeling for aging in place today will help sell your home tomorrow
(ARA) - Only one in 10 adults believes this is a good time to sell a home, according to Fannie Mae's September 2011 National Housing Survey. If you're on hold in the real estate market, now is the time to get your house in order - literally. Make the right changes today, and you'll get a better price tomorrow.
Thursday, October 27, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThe No. 1 countertop secret for 2012
(ARA) - Everyone loves granite for kitchen and bath countertops, but many homeowners find this option for adding value to their home, too pricey. When considering a kitchen update I found that granite typically costs $50 to $100 per square foot (including installation).
Wednesday, January 18, 2012 6:00 PM CSTA blanket for your house: energy-efficient, insulated siding
(ARA) - With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however, one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home's framing.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to have easy-blooming flower power for any size garden
(ARA) - Tired of winter white? Chances are you're itching to dig in the soil and fill your garden with plants and flowers bursting with rich color and fragrance.
Sunday, December 25, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow today's vinyl siding packs extreme toughness
(ARA) - Through tempestuous weather and extreme four-season cycles, today's vinyl siding is living up to both the style and durability demands of discerning builders, remodelers, architects, homeowners and multifamily developers. Manufacturing advancements allow the market's innovative producers to artistically recreate looks of genuine weathered cedar, reclaimed brick and deeply-faceted stone.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat's the best floor for your high-traffic home?
(ARA) - From high-heeled shoes to dog paws and kitchen spills, your home's flooring faces tough challenges every day. When it comes to choosing a floor that will stand up to today's hyper-active households, experts recommend laminate for its low-maintenance, realistic beauty and durability. But savvy shoppers should keep in mind that not all laminates are created equal, especially when it comes to long-term performance. To find the best floor for your high-traffic home, look for the following:
Thursday, October 27, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHome roof maintenance 101
(ARA) - Most homeowners do not think about their roof on a daily basis. They assume that it is performing its duty unless something happens that tells them otherwise, such as a leak. Realistically, there were probably signs of roof trouble well in advance. Luckily, there are some easy tasks that can be done to help you keep an eye on the condition of your roof so your home and investment are properly protected.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThree green trends for 2012 home remodeling
(ARA) - For some homeowners, remodeling projects are regular occurrences to keep their homes looking fresh. Sometimes, that means smaller changes like a new coat of paint or changing a light fixture. Other times, more substantial changes are needed. Determining those changes can be a challenge, but looking at the potential return on investment is a great way to prioritize.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to keep your car running for years longer than most
(ARA) - If you've been in an auto dealer's showroom recently, you won't be surprised to learn that the average price of a new car is approaching $30,000. While there's no getting around the price you have to pay for a new automobile, there are plenty of things you can do to make sure you won't have to make the same investment again anytime soon.
Thursday, January 5, 2012 6:00 PM CSTUpgrading your home into home sweet home
(ARA) - Home sweet home. With more homeowners deciding to stay put in their homes, rather than attempting to sell in the current market, that old adage is more meaningful than ever.
Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites
(ARA) - When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites.
Monday, January 23, 2012 6:00 PM CSTGreen tips for tackling fall lawn cleanup
(ARA) - Every fall, the wind picks up, the leaves fall to the ground and the grass gets a little browner. It's the time of year when the weather is unpredictable and storms can make even the neatest yards a mess.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGet your garage ready for winter
(ARA) - Colder weather not only has you shutting the windows and cranking up the heat, but also bringing all your belongings indoors to protect them from the winter elements. This means it's time to get your garage geared up for the season.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHot Topics
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What you need to know when stomach flu strikes your home
(ARA) - With the stomach flu season upon us, parents know that the stomach flu could be lurking on any doorknob or shared toy. Unfortunately, what parents don't know could be making the symptoms of stomach flu worse for little ones.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTChanges impacting your taxes and this year's refund from Uncle Sam
(ARA) - In the way of tax legislation, 2011 was a relatively quiet year. However, that doesn't mean there aren't tax law changes that will affect this year's tax returns.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTChanging economy adding up to more job opportunities in accounting
(ARA) - Job prospects in many industries have dwindled as the country still struggles with the lingering effects of the recession. But while the economy has undermined opportunity in many industries, it's also spurred growth in others. Job opportunities for accountants and auditors are expected to grow 22 percent between 2008 and 2018 at the national level, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for making tax time easier
(ARA) - Tax season is in full swing. Taxpayers receiving a refund tend to file earlier in the year, while those who owe Uncle Sam often wait until closer to the filing deadline. Whether you file now or wait until the last minute, make tax time easier with these tips.
Sunday, December 18, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFighting the five most common foot woes
(ARA) - From eating better foods to getting an adequate amount of sleep and exercise, we're a very health-aware society. So why is it that many Americans routinely overlook one of the cornerstones of good health?
Tuesday, January 24, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhat 26 million Americans should know about diabetes and oral health
(ARA) - People living with diabetes need to take care of and monitor their health very closely. While monitoring their blood glucose is usually top of mind, the 26 million Americans living with diabetes may be surprised to learn that 95 percent have a form of gum disease. This is compared to only 50 percent of the general population. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop serious gum disease as people without diabetes.
Sunday, November 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe revolutionary technology that's making smartphones even smarter
(ARA) - Smartphones are about to become much smarter. Imagine a world where completing transactions, exchanging digital content, connecting electronic devices and accessing buildings and venues can all be done with a simple wave or tap of your smartphone.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRegistered nurses encouraged to pursue bachelor's degrees
(ARA) - As many industries scaled back and cut resources in the last year, health care continued to grow, adding an average of 26,000 jobs per month, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. This trend is likely to continue as technological innovations and new regulations prompt additional oversight within the health care setting.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012 6:00 PM CSTBed bug battles: How to keep the pests out of your home
(ARA) - The conflict between humans and insect pests has raged for centuries, but few battles boast the sheer make-your-skin-crawl ick factor as the war between people and bed bugs. And the battle, once played out largely in hotels with high international traffic, has moved to the home front.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRaise your hand to Stop Diabetes
(ARA) - November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and management.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTAmerica's wackiest laws still on the books
(ARA) - In just about every state, city and town in America, there are crazy, weird and outright goofy laws, regulations and ordinances that are still legally valid, but that no one pays attention to, much less enforces, according to FindLaw.com, the nation's number one online source for free legal information.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow smart shopping can help transform your lifestyle
(ARA) - Eating right and exercising is something we all know we should do, but the follow-through can be harder than we think. You don't need to take part in an expensive or radical health program to improve your life. Thinking long term and making small changes like shopping smarter and taking a closer look at what we eat can help improve our lives.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHealth story of the year: Salt vindicated
(ARA) - Paul T. Meagher sometimes gets disapproving stares when people see him sprinkle his food with salt as he has done since he was a young lad growing up in Ireland. He has a response for such people.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat 11 moments will you remember from 2011?
(ARA) - As the year winds down, the events of 2011 become water cooler conversation. Reflections of what happened in the world beyond one's front door take the form of "top moments" and "best ofs."
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTShopping advice: knowing what's in your food
(ARA) - How do you protect strawberries from an early frost? Some scientists choose to insert a gene from an arctic flounder so the strawberries tolerate the cold, just like the fish. That may sound a bit strange to you, and mounting evidence indicates that tinkering with nature like this might even prove harmful.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHoliday shopping? How to deter identity thieves during the holidays
(ARA) - Like the song says, little things mean a lot, especially during the holidays. A greeting card with a heartfelt, handwritten note, a tin of homemade cookies - these simple gestures speak of the holiday spirit.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive no-tech, imagination-boosting toys every child should have
(ARA) - Every year, lists fly around the Internet and airwaves, parents line up in stores and everyone talks about what the season's hottest toys will be. All the chatter can make it seem like everyone's forgotten the single most enduring "toy" at the disposal of every child - imagination.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHelp make your dreams a reality with wedding insurance
(ARA) - Getting married is a dream. Who hasn't fantasized about the dress, the jewelry, your dad walking you down the aisle, the music, the cake, the reception following the ceremony?
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDistinguishing the difference between fact and fiction this flu season
(ARA) - It's that time of year again - flu season. Cold and snow is joined by the arrival of sniffles, coughs, sneezing, sore throat and muscle aches. The seasonal flu, which is also known as influenza, is not the same as a head cold, and should not be taken lightly. In fact, the Center for Disease Control estimates that the flu affects anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of the U.S. population each year, and that approximately 200,000 people are hospitalized each year due to flu-related complications.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWaking up to the serious problem of sleep apnea
(ARA) - Many people struggling to get a restful night's sleep are unaware that a serious health problem may be keeping them up. Sleep apnea, which affects 18 million Americans, is a disorder which causes breathing to repeatedly pause during sleep. Sleep apnea lowers a person's blood oxygen level and results in a fragmented sleep pattern - making for a potentially dangerous health situation.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTeach teens to drive safely - and save their lives
(ARA) - In 2009, 3,466 teenagers died in the United States from automobile crash injuries, according to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Such injuries are by far the leading public health problem among youths 13 to19 years old. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in America. Mile for mile, teenagers are involved in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers. The crash risk among teenage drivers is particularly high during the first months of licensure.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTPlanning for your tax bill? How it can affect your credit score
(ARA) - Your resolutions are made and you even have a game plan to make sure 2012 is the year you stick to them. But before you can really get going on achieving your personal goals in the new year, you'll need to wrap up some unfinished business from 2011 - your taxes.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThree rules for the unemployed job seeker
(ARA) - Everyone has heard that employers like to hire the currently employed, and there is a stigma attached to gaps in work history: generally, the longer the gap, the larger the stigma. This is a stigma potentially affecting 5.9 million people (or 42.4 percent of all the unemployed) who are defined as "long-term unemployed," according the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, unemployed job seekers can follow a few rules to overcome any potential negative association with their work history. The rules aren't simple and job seekers need to practice, but the effort can make all the difference.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe beautiful truth of aging - 4 steps for a healthy and active mind
(ARA) - With age comes the inevitable anxiety of mental decline. A common misconception is brain health is predetermined and can't be changed - it's the "you're stuck with what you got" notion. But experts suggest brain health can be positively influenced throughout different stages in life.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTIdentity theft prevention tips for the holiday season
(ARA) - While you're trekking through the malls or cruising websites looking for great holiday bargains, it may be difficult to remember that not everyone around you is as caught up in the holiday spirit as you are. Some of your fellow shoppers may actually be identity thieves looking to parlay the season's hustle and bustle into an opportunity to steal your personal information and, ultimately, your money.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTen tips to manage your money through unexpected life changes
(ARA) - One of the many benefits of marriage is having a partner to share in the day-to-day tasks. One person might handle the laundry while the other takes over yard work. But, when it comes to money management, while you may end up delegating most of the responsibility to one person, it's in every couple's best interest to be mutually involved in the family finances.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGo ahead, be an egghead: fortified eggs benefit the brain
(ARA) - Egg consumption is on the rise, and not just at Easter. According to the American Egg Board, each American eats about 250 eggs annually - 20 eggs more per person every year than people were eating two decades ago. And there are many ways to enjoy eggs of all kinds of varieties, from colors to sizes to omega-3 fortified eggs.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCleaning up the mystery of vehicle title washing
(ARA) - When you buy a used car, you're happy if the seller vacuums the interior and gives the exterior a good wash and wax before you take possession. But there's one kind of "cleanup" that you want to avoid when you're buying used: title washing.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTConsumers becoming more credit savvy with new services and resources
(ARA) - The uncertain economy has reminded many Americans of the importance of keeping an eye on their financial health. Fortunately, technology and new federal regulations have made it easier than ever for consumers to keep track of two very important elements of their financial well-being: their credit report and score.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHoliday gift-giving tips for the teen on your list
(ARA) - Shopping for the perfect gift for kids and teenagers can be tough. It's hard to know what they're going to like, especially without a "wish list" in hand as you head out to the stores.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow To
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Six tips to keep identity theft in check
(ARA) - Nearly 251,000 identity theft-related complaints were made to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2010. So it's no surprise that - for the 11th straight year - identity theft ranks No. 1 as the biggest concern among consumers.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBuying a fixer-upper? How to make the most of your remodel
(ARA) - With home prices and interest rates still low across the country, and inventories high, it's a great time to be in the market for a fixer-upper. By buying a house that needs some work, you can achieve your dream home for less than you would probably pay for a move-in-ready abode.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTransforming your exterior: lessons from the professionals
(ARA) - With more and more homeowners choosing to stay in their current homes instead of selling, many are deciding to remodel.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow small businesses can protect their floors and technology this winter
(ARA) - Snow, ice, wind and cold temperatures bring a host of problems that facility and IT managers must plan and prepare for ahead of the winter season. Not only do they need to consider the damaging effects that salt and sand have on flooring, but they should prepare for potential power outages that could impact their technology infrastructure.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTShopping online? 10 tips to avoid ID theft this holiday season
(ARA) - The holidays are approaching and it's time to start shopping for those special gifts. Last year, consumers spent a holiday-season record $32.6 billion online, according to comScore. Unfortunately, with so much personal financial information out there, instances of identity theft are on the rise. According to the Federal Trade Commission, as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhen starting a business, remember that time is money
This challenging economy and stagnant job market have left plenty of qualified and capable Americans without work. And when qualified and capable people suddenly have time on their hands, many of them will think about starting their own business.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBudget-friendly tips and tricks for easy entertaining
(ARA) - Whether entertaining throughout the season or inviting your closest friends and family over for an evening of fun, every host strives to impress their guests. But sometimes the stress and steep costs of shopping, cooking and entertaining can derail plans of being the hostess with the mostess. This year, use a few simple tips and tricks to make your gatherings special, memorable and affordable.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTItems to put on your home winterization checklist
(ARA) - Preparing your home for cold weather is important for your comfort this winter as well as your utility bills. When you're making your winterization to-do list, be sure to include these simple updates that will help prevent costly damage to your home and provide you with the peace of mind that you're saving energy, water and money.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHelp protect your home from rodents this winter
(ARA) - The cold temperatures are settling in for the winter months, and if you're not careful, rodents can also settle into your home. Your house - especially your kitchen - offers everything rats and mice are looking for: food, water and warmth.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to pursue your passion through a career change
(ARA) - Whether you are pursuing a life-long passion or looking to reinvent yourself, it is never too late to pursue a new career.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTake control of your arthritis pain
(ARA) - Arthritis affects the lives of nearly one in five American adults and limits the lives of countless citizens each year. In fact, arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States, and yet only 11 percent of those with arthritis participate in widely available, low-cost self-management workshops that help people manage symptoms, increase activity, and maintain independence.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBest options for beating the bugs of cold and flu season
(ARA) - Though it may have started off mild in many parts of the country, cold and flu season is now in full swing and staying healthy this time of year can be a challenge. For those suffering, identifying the type of illness - cold, flu, sinus infection, etc. - and finding the right over-the-counter medications are key in helping to alleviate symptoms.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to snack smart in 2012
(ARA) - Snacks - they can either be your worst dieting enemy or your new weight-loss best friend. The difference is all in the choices you make. This year, make it your resolution to learn how to snack smarter. To help, here are some tips to develop a healthier relationship with snacking.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for a smooth military transition
(ARA) - Some 39,000 U.S. troops will be headed home from Iraq by year's end. Many will begin the difficult process of transitioning out of military life - including starting a second career. Some cities offer military veterans better employment opportunities than others.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips to save for those needed college study breaks
As you lay down your pencil after filling in that last circle, you can take a deep breath and relax. You've just earned a couple of weeks of time off from the college lectures and late night study sessions.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWinter forecast calls for smarter snow removal options
(ARA) - Who could forget the challenges of last winter? The 2010/2011 winter season went down in the record books as one of the coldest and snowiest for many parts of the United States. Snowstorms shattered such major cities as New York City in December and January to create the snowiest January ever recorded and, in the process, left thousands of people stranded, not just at airports but in their own driveways. With snow continuing to accumulate faster than many people could clear it using traditional snow removal methods, many people were stuck at home, unable to get to work or even to the grocery store.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for meeting your financial goals this year
(ARA) - The new year is a time for celebration, but it's also time for planning. For many Americans, that means reviewing your budget for the next year and setting some financial goals. As with any other goals, the key to achieving your financial goals is laying out a process that will ultimately lead you to success.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012 6:00 PM CSTAmerica's wackiest laws still on the books
(ARA) - In just about every state, city and town in America, there are crazy, weird and outright goofy laws, regulations and ordinances that are still legally valid, but that no one pays attention to, much less enforces, according to FindLaw.com, the nation's number one online source for free legal information.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake your home ready for the holidays with easy, affordable decor updates
(ARA) - Welcoming friends and family into your home is one of the best ways to celebrate the season. One of the keys to making visitors feel right at home is to be a happy host. So, do yourself - and your guests - a favor and put a little effort into getting your home holiday houseguest perfect.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake Halloween frightfully easy and affordable
(ARA) - Halloween decorations and costumes are meant to be frightfully fun, but the price tag for pulling together the big night doesn't have to be scary.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSix factors to consider before installing a gas fireplace
(ARA) - A gas fireplace can add ambiance and warmth to any room, and with the cold weather, you might be dreaming of adding one in your home. Because purchasing a fireplace is not something we do every day, there are some important things to consider.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSmart holiday gift ideas that make busy lives easier
(ARA) - As the holiday season approaches, many people start wondering how they're going to get everything done. From shopping for gifts and decorating the house to hosting parties and visiting relatives - and more - the list feels endless. And adding all of these things to an already hectic lifestyle can seem next to impossible.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEasy as 1-2-3 ways to save on everyday expenses
(ARA) - In this uncertain economic climate, consumers are feeling the strain on their personal finances. Now more than ever, it is important to save on everyday expenses - big or small - wherever possible.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake over your boring breakfast with these tempting turkey recipes
(ARA) - Are you starting off your day with a bagel and a coffee ... again? It's easy for a breakfast routine to quickly turn into a breakfast rut. People often sacrifice a well-rounded breakfast that helps fuel morning activities and stave off hunger for a quick breakfast loaded with refined carbohydrates and sugar.
Monday, January 16, 2012 6:00 PM CSTGet your garage ready for winter
(ARA) - Colder weather not only has you shutting the windows and cranking up the heat, but also bringing all your belongings indoors to protect them from the winter elements. This means it's time to get your garage geared up for the season.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for making tax time easier
(ARA) - Tax season is in full swing. Taxpayers receiving a refund tend to file earlier in the year, while those who owe Uncle Sam often wait until closer to the filing deadline. Whether you file now or wait until the last minute, make tax time easier with these tips.
Sunday, December 18, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFour steps to a healthier you
(ARA) - The growing obesity rates in the United States have companies, health care workers and even the government discussing concerns about the physical and mental health effects and costs associated with weight gain. According to a recent estimate, by 2030 - in less than 20 years - 65 million more American adults may be obese.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTLast minute? Tips to handle your shopping list
(ARA) - Do you find yourself in the last-minute-gift-buying category this year? Maybe time got away from you, or you just don't know what to get for the gift recipients on your list. Even though the clock is ticking, the good news is there's still time to find great gifts with special deals attached.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTIn retirement, how will you use your nest egg?
(ARA) - You've waited your whole working life and now it is finally here: retirement. Savings, 401(k)s, investments: you did what you needed to get to the finish line. So now what?
Sunday, January 22, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFive handy apps for the festive season
(ARA) - The holiday season is full of festivities from children's plays to office parties to checking off shopping lists. That means many consumers are multitasking. Never fear, there are an array of apps for both the iPad and smartphones to help you accomplish your seasonal tasks on the go.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTKitchen Bed Bath
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Three green trends for 2012 home remodeling
(ARA) - For some homeowners, remodeling projects are regular occurrences to keep their homes looking fresh. Sometimes, that means smaller changes like a new coat of paint or changing a light fixture. Other times, more substantial changes are needed. Determining those changes can be a challenge, but looking at the potential return on investment is a great way to prioritize.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTVanity sanity: Organize wisely to bring style and space to your bathroom
(ARA) - It's the room where you start and end your day, so it should be one of the most enjoyable places in your home. But, most of the time, your bathroom is not the relaxing retreat you hoped it would be. Whether it is overrun with towels and toiletries - or is tough to keep clean with smudged mirrors and faucets - today's bathrooms are in need of some serious updates and organization. Luckily, a few simple tips and tricks can bring style and sanity to your bathroom vanity in no time.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTEasy-to-change seasonal decorating ideas
(ARA) - When spring arrives with its bright sunshine, fresh air, vibrant colors and light, do you find yourself regretting the decorating decisions you made last fall or winter? It's natural to incorporate the season into your home decor, and the best way to do that is with design touches that can change as easily - and quickly - as the seasons themselves.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow new home trends can apply to remodeling existing homes
(ARA) - A significant shift in consumer preference in new home purchases is the latest by-product of the still-struggling economy. The residential construction market is shrinking and so are houses.
Thursday, January 5, 2012 6:00 PM CSTRing in 2012 with renewed home decor
(ARA) - New Year's is a time when many people commit to starting fresh or developing some positive changes in their lives. As you consider what you will change in 2012, think about where you spend the majority of your time. Your surroundings can greatly influence your mood and actions, and a refreshed interior can help you step forward into a new and improved lifestyle. Enjoying life more in 2012 could start with just a few simple updates to your home.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFour easy ways to warm up your home decor
(ARA) - As the chill of winter sets in, your home interior may be lacking the warmth and comfort you'd prefer. Fortunately, creating an inviting atmosphere does not require huge amounts of time or money. And you don't need to be a professional interior designer - or even have experience in decorating - to transform your home into a welcoming haven. To bring your decor into the season and give your home noticeable appeal, follow a few easy tips.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTLiving large in smaller spaces: The shrinking, changing American home
(ARA) - The American home may be shrinking, but not the Great American Dream. Americans are still living large, just doing so in smaller spaces.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBathroom remodeling ideas: from small to total overhaul
(ARA) - Ready to give your bathroom a facelift, but can't decide what changes to make? From tubs to toilets to tile, the sky is the limit when it comes to bathroom renovations, even if budget is not.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTrend watch: Color and customization trends for your kitchen
(ARA) - If you want your home to reflect your personal style, why not start in the kitchen? The kitchen, commonly the most popular room in the house for everyday life and entertaining, doesn't have to be cookie cutter with coordinating color schemes. Current trends give homeowners leeway to add personal flair to the kitchen with bursts of color, unique designs and unexpected patterns.
Thursday, January 26, 2012 6:00 PM CSTBed bug battles: How to keep the pests out of your home
(ARA) - The conflict between humans and insect pests has raged for centuries, but few battles boast the sheer make-your-skin-crawl ick factor as the war between people and bed bugs. And the battle, once played out largely in hotels with high international traffic, has moved to the home front.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to create your perfect shower
(ARA) - From an invigorating spray that kick-starts the morning to an enveloping waterfall that washes away a long day, today's showers offer luxurious experiences to meet every desire. With a little planning and the right products, you can create a personal oasis. Even small choices, like showerheads and accessories, can instantly upgrade any bathroom.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to extend the life of your heating system
(ARA) - Just as regular tune-ups may extend the life of your car, performing routine maintenance to your home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system may extend the life of your HVAC equipment. While there are some tasks homeowners can handle on their own, many HVAC projects require a professional contractor.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSpring into 2012 with the hottest colors for your home
(ARA) - As you anticipate what exciting things this year will bring, you might notice your home decor has been left behind. Fortunately, you can easily beautify and modernize your home using hints from design experts on the hottest color trends. Don't worry that you'll need to break the bank - simply updating the shades of your walls can create the feel of an entire new home without the cost of buying one. And you'll enjoy starting the year in fresh, contemporary surroundings.
Sunday, January 22, 2012 6:00 PM CSTThe No. 1 countertop secret for 2012
(ARA) - Everyone loves granite for kitchen and bath countertops, but many homeowners find this option for adding value to their home, too pricey. When considering a kitchen update I found that granite typically costs $50 to $100 per square foot (including installation).
Wednesday, January 18, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWhat's the best floor for your high-traffic home?
(ARA) - From high-heeled shoes to dog paws and kitchen spills, your home's flooring faces tough challenges every day. When it comes to choosing a floor that will stand up to today's hyper-active households, experts recommend laminate for its low-maintenance, realistic beauty and durability. But savvy shoppers should keep in mind that not all laminates are created equal, especially when it comes to long-term performance. To find the best floor for your high-traffic home, look for the following:
Thursday, October 27, 2011 7:00 PM CDTImpress your guests with holiday etiquette 101
(ARA) - You've spent the entire day in the kitchen cooking the perfect holiday meal. But it's an hour before your guests arrive and you find yourself standing in front of the table listening to that little nagging voice inside your head.
Thursday, October 13, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSave money with an 'enlightened' roof - and decorate too
(ARA) - Enlightenment isn't just a state of mind - it can also be an important energy-saving state of being for your home's roof. By "enlightening" your roof, you can use less energy, save money, and dress up the interior of your home at the same time.
Monday, January 2, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTax credit and deduction tips for home improvement in 2012
(ARA) - With the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you'll use your credit to fund them. While it's important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also consider another kind of credit - tax credits for energy efficient home improvements.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTop home decor trends for 2012
(ARA) - From warm woods and creative colors to memorable murals and tailored textures, interior designers and industry experts predict 2012 will offer a multitude of options for those interested in giving their homes a fresh look. Even better for today's cost-conscious consumers is that many of the trends are easy and inexpensive.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSavvy bathroom-storage solutions
(ARA) - While the bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the home, it is also the area where we store a multitude of items, from cosmetics to cleaners, laundry to linens. With this in mind, it's easy for your bath to feel more like crowded, cluttered chaos than the spa sanctuary we long for it to be.
Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:00 PM CST2012 homes will mix old and new designs under one (smaller) roof
(ARA) - Today's consumer mindset is steeped in common sense and careful decisions. When making a purchase, individuals aren't looking to accumulate "stuff." They're looking to buy an experience. That experiential purchasing behavior is especially true when it comes to selecting items for the home. Current home decorating is not about flashy, over-the-top design; rather, it's about decorating for real life - a home that's smaller, more well-equipped and custom-made for its owners' lifestyles.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGreen living plus green savings: an efficient equation for today's homeowners
(ARA) - Across the nation, both building professionals and consumers are embracing the idea of sustainable building practices. This practice follows a process that is environmentally responsible and resource efficient throughout a building's life cycle: from design to construction, operation to maintenance and renovation, to eventually, demolition. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability and comfort.
Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFashion for the home: Hardwoods are key design element in contemporary furnishings
(ARA) - From the runway to the living room, hot trends in home fashion can take the style of a room from simple to stunning. Incorporating trendy furniture into home decor is an easy way to add style without having to make costly renovations.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEasy-to-install and easy-to-clean bathroom remodeling tips
(ARA) - Dreaming about a bathroom remodel? With today's easy-to-install products - many of which are also easy-to-clean - your new bathroom can actually exceed your wildest dreams. What could be better than an easy-to-clean new bathroom?
Monday, January 30, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips to make a toddler's room sustainable
(ARA) - Whether you've been taking steps toward green living or you're a newbie and want to jump start your efforts and reduce your carbon footprint on earth, one area of opportunity is your toddler's room.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012 6:00 PM CSTLawn And Garden
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Garden accents for the holidays
(ARA) - As autumn fades and winter draws near, homes begin to reflect the approaching holiday season. For many of us, the cooler weather also signifies a lifestyle change.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to protect your landscaping during the snow season
(ARA) - You work hard on your lawn and landscaping during the spring and summer. Now it's fall, and time to get ready for winter. You know the drill - move houseplants indoors, make sure your plants are well-watered before the ground freezes, clean up the beds and remove annuals, cut back perennials, put down mulch.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWinter habitats for the winged visitors
(ARA) - As temperatures fall and nature's food supply dwindles across the country, some birds will migrate to more hospitable areas while others will stay and tough it out. Regardless of where you live, the bird populations present in your area this winter could use your assistance. Attract and welcome these feathered friends to your backyard with a bird-friendly habitat.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMaximize your melting this winter
(ARA) - Snow typically starts falling across the U.S. in November, according to the National Weather Service. In 2010 more than one-third of the country was covered with powdery flakes by Thanksgiving. It's during this time people flock to the store to pick up shovels and snow blowers. Yet, one of the most versatile snow safety tools consumers have in their winter arsenal is ice melt.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTEasy, affordable weekend spruce-up projects you can tackle this spring
(ARA) - When it comes to home improvement, most of us have two "to-do" lists: the things we need to do, such as paint the shutters and clean out gutters, and the list of those we want to do, such as fun and easy projects that add visual interest or practical enhancements to the outdoors. Since our budgets for both lists are usually limited, it makes sense to seek out projects that are easy, affordable and that create the most impact in a short amount of time.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTComposting, crafts and cuisine: Using what's in your garden
(ARA) - The cooler temperatures and changing colors of fall draw many people outdoors to explore what nature has to offer. The summer harvest has made room for many cold weather crops for those in the north, and tomatoes are just beginning to blossom for those in the southwest. Regardless of where you live, the fall garden still offers a lot to be used and discovered.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSurefire tactics to fill your backyard with birdsong this winter
(ARA) - Shorter days, dropping temperatures and dealing with snow and ice can give many people a serious case of the winter doldrums. Most of us won't be able to fight winter blues with a tropical getaway or a spa weekend. But there is an easy, convenient way to give yourself an emotional boost during the winter, and do something good for nature at the same time: feed wild birds.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWhy winter is the right time to plan outdoor updates
(ARA) - Does the bitter cold weather have you dreaming of warm days spending time with friends and family in your backyard? The cold may keep us indoors, but professionals in the landscape and remodeling industry are still thinking about the outdoors and use the winter months to plan spring projects, and so should you.
Monday, November 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGreen tips for tackling fall lawn cleanup
(ARA) - Every fall, the wind picks up, the leaves fall to the ground and the grass gets a little browner. It's the time of year when the weather is unpredictable and storms can make even the neatest yards a mess.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRetaining walls and pavers add curb appeal to your front entry
(ARA) - Front-porch entertaining is making a comeback in America's neighborhoods, thanks to homeowners' renewed interest in beautifying the front entries of their homes. The days of uninspired concrete front stoops have passed, giving way to elegant combinations of freestanding walls, columns and matching pavers to create welcoming entrances that also serve as gathering places.
Sunday, January 8, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to have easy-blooming flower power for any size garden
(ARA) - Tired of winter white? Chances are you're itching to dig in the soil and fill your garden with plants and flowers bursting with rich color and fragrance.
Sunday, December 25, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTop 2012 garden and lifestyle trends: cultivate the new good life with the power of plants
(ARA) - In today's world where news travels at the speed of now, people are searching for balance and purpose and are tapping into the power of plants to cultivate the 'new good life'.
Monday, December 26, 2011 6:00 PM CSTA guide to the best ice melters for tough winters
(ARA) - Most homeowners reach for rock salt to clear their driveways and sidewalks during winter. It's economical and reliable, and it easily melts ice in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit to keep driveways and sidewalks clear and safe.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMoney And Finance
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DIY insulation projects make for a more comfortable home year round
(ARA) - Do-it-yourself home improvement projects are more popular than ever, as homeowners are looking for simple, low cost ways to update their household and increase overall home efficiency. Kitchen upgrades and a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference aesthetically, but sometimes the most effective DIY projects happen in areas not always visible.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTShopping online? 10 tips to avoid ID theft this holiday season
(ARA) - The holidays are approaching and it's time to start shopping for those special gifts. Last year, consumers spent a holiday-season record $32.6 billion online, according to comScore. Unfortunately, with so much personal financial information out there, instances of identity theft are on the rise. According to the Federal Trade Commission, as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTArmy reserve sustainability and energy security: Sustaining the environment and supporting the nation
(ARA) - See if you can pass this simple quiz about energy security and sustainability: What do the following have in common?
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTax resolutions for the new year
(ARA) - It might be coincidental that the new year and the beginning of tax season arrive so close together. Many people resolve to be wiser with their money in the new year, and it just so happens that being smart about your taxes is a good way to get started.
Monday, December 26, 2011 6:00 PM CSTIRS free resources help employers choose and maintain retirement plans
(ARA) - Are you a small-business owner thinking about offering a retirement plan to your employees? The Internal Revenue Service has free resources on starting and maintaining a retirement plan to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your employees.
Monday, September 26, 2011 7:00 PM CDTLong term care: What you need to know, and how you can pay for it
(ARA) - Aging in America can be physically and financially debilitating. People 65 and older have a 68 percent probability of becoming disabled in a way that will affect at least two activities of daily living, according to the AARP report Beyond 50: A Report to the Nation on Independent Living and Disability. The median national cost for nursing home care is about $77,745 per year, a 2011 Genworth Cost of Care Survey by CareScout (C) revealed.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTYour legacy of giving: Review your beneficiary lists during the holiday season
(ARA) - The holiday season is in full swing, and amid the flurry of preparations, your will and legacy may be the last things on your mind.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTConsumers becoming more credit savvy with new services and resources
(ARA) - The uncertain economy has reminded many Americans of the importance of keeping an eye on their financial health. Fortunately, technology and new federal regulations have made it easier than ever for consumers to keep track of two very important elements of their financial well-being: their credit report and score.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFixing your credit is doable
If you find yourself with less-than-good credit, you are not alone. Business Insider, an online business news website, reports that one in 50 households owes more than $20,000 in credit card debt. Coinciding with this alarming figure, the site further states that more than 2 million Americans look to credit counselors each year to avoid bankruptcy.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't let your money manage you
(ARA) - As the United States, one of the world's wealthiest countries, struggles with debt and a still-uncertain economy, Americans are closely watching the steps our leaders are taking to address long-term fiscal problems. The state of our nation's economy has also caused many individuals to re-examine their own personal finances and money management plans.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTLiving credit smart in tough financial times
(ARA) - Amid uncertain economic times, the state of consumers' credit and debt management is often referenced as an indication of Americans' overall financial well-being. Credit scores enable lenders to evaluate the level of risk involved in extending credit to a consumer and they can affect everything from your ability to open a credit card to determining your rates when buying a home or car. As our nation struggles to regain its footing in a recession, establishing good credit has never been more important than it is today.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTIdentity theft protection tips for mobile device users
(ARA) - If you use complex passwords for your online accounts, have a firewall on your PC's Internet connection and only shop at secure websites, you may think you're doing a good job protecting yourself from identity theft. Those precautions are a good start, but don't overlook another important opportunity for identity thieves - your mobile devices.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTAre you retirement ready? What you need to consider
(ARA) - The idea of retirement is both exciting and daunting. After leaving the workforce, you'll have the opportunity to pursue dreams that you have envisioned for your retirement. But you'll need to have the financial wherewithal to fund those dreams and cover your day-to-day living expenses.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHoliday shoppers: beware of 'budget fatigue'
(ARA) - The past few years have been hard on the American pocketbook - and psyche. Just when we think we see the light at the end of the recessionary tunnel, something happens to make us pull our belts a little tighter and dampen our spirits. Many of us have had to curtail spending for quite some time, and with the holiday season (read, shopping season) coming up fast, we're itching just to let go and spend like it's 1999.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWays to pay for an automotive emergency
We all strive to be responsible and pay our bills on time, and if we're lucky, still be able to save for college or a vacation. But sometimes, a rainy day fund to help pay for the unexpected is a better place for that extra money.
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSlash college bills with tax benefits
(ARA) - Other than buying a home and automobile, a college education is one of the biggest investments Americans typically make. On average, in-state tuition and fees at a four-year public college increased by more than 8 percent to $8,244 for the 2011-2012 academic year, and room and board now averages more than $17,000 per year.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTIt's never too early or too late to take control of your finances
(ARA) - "Silly season" - the months of campaigning that lead up to a presidential election - is well under way, and it's a sure bet the country's money, finances and spending habits will be favorite issues for politicos of all persuasions. But while the debate and rhetoric is sure to be heated on both sides of the political fence, taking control of finances - specifically, your personal ones - is something worth considering this year.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSeven things you can do to protect your identity this holiday season
(ARA) - Whether you're buying a gift for someone else or buying something nice for yourself this holiday season, there are always those looking to criminally benefit from stealing your identity. As the shopping season heats up, criminals are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers and businesses at every turn.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat efficient fuel heats your home and saves you money?
(ARA) - Cold days are here to stay, and the lower the temperature goes, the higher the utility costs are to heat your home. What if there was a way to heat your house for significantly less? Biomass fuels - natural, clean-burning, inexpensive fuels - offer a smart solution that can lower your heating costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
Thursday, January 26, 2012 6:00 PM CSTPrice versus value: When is it worth the upgrade?
(ARA) - In today's economy, people want to know how they can keep their vehicles on the road for longer periods of time. Frequent maintenance will keep your car in good health, ensuring you get the most out of all those expensive-to-replace parts, according to the Car Care Council. When does it make sense to upgrade to a premium automotive product?
Monday, January 16, 2012 6:00 PM CSTNew year, new woman: Get fiscally fit with resolutions that stick
(ARA) - It's that time of year again - when holiday excesses leave everyone feeling overstuffed and overextended. We say we'll start fresh in the new year - we'll exercise more, we'll eat healthier, we'll get more sleep. But how about making a resolution that's just as beneficial, and may be a little easier to stick to - getting your finances in shape and being more fiscally fit?
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for a smooth military transition
(ARA) - Some 39,000 U.S. troops will be headed home from Iraq by year's end. Many will begin the difficult process of transitioning out of military life - including starting a second career. Some cities offer military veterans better employment opportunities than others.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012 6:00 PM CSTEight savvy ways to upgrade your finances and lifestyle in 2012
(ARA) - People always look forward to a new year, whether it's a chance to start over from a tough year, or an opportunity to build on something great that happened the last year. Either way, upgrading from one year to the next is an important start.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMake Halloween frightfully easy and affordable
(ARA) - Halloween decorations and costumes are meant to be frightfully fun, but the price tag for pulling together the big night doesn't have to be scary.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTChanges impacting your taxes and this year's refund from Uncle Sam
(ARA) - In the way of tax legislation, 2011 was a relatively quiet year. However, that doesn't mean there aren't tax law changes that will affect this year's tax returns.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSmart ways to use credit when redecorating
(ARA) - When your redecorating project is done, you want everyone who sees it to think it looks like a million bucks. But woe to your wallet - and possibly your credit - if you overspend to achieve that look.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTYear-end tax planning tips
(ARA) - With the year nearing its close, you should be aware of tax planning strategies that can position you favorably for 2012 and beyond. Specifically, both the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the "Health Care Act") and the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Jobs Creation Act (the "Tax Relief Act") were enacted into law in 2010 and offer certain tax planning opportunities.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTeaching kids financial literacy? Don't forget entrepreneurship
(ARA) - You teach them the value of hard work and the importance of telling the truth, how to be a loyal friend and a good citizen. But you might be overlooking one of the most important lessons you can teach your children to help ensure they do well in life - financial literacy.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTCharitable giving: Important tips for tax season
(ARA) - Charitable contributions are a great way to give back to those who need it most. Of course giving back is great for the soul, but it can also be good for the pocketbook, in the form of a tax deduction. When you begin tax preparations, keep those 2011 donations in mind.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for meeting your financial goals this year
(ARA) - The new year is a time for celebration, but it's also time for planning. For many Americans, that means reviewing your budget for the next year and setting some financial goals. As with any other goals, the key to achieving your financial goals is laying out a process that will ultimately lead you to success.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012 6:00 PM CSTPets
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U.S. pets getting sicker; decline in vet visits blamed
(ARA) - When Michele Sebesto, of Staten Island, N.Y., adopted JC 10 years ago, she said the chihuahua was an invaluable source of comfort. As a New Yorker, she'd just gone through the 9/11 attacks, and the two developed a special bond. Unfortunately, JC had some minor but persistent health problems.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTYour dog's good looks start from the inside out
(ARA) - Let's face it - when it comes to a dog's looks, people often think that theirs is the most gorgeous they've ever seen. They hold their head high on walks around the block, and think no dog at the park stands a chance against their pooch's appearance.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTGetting a dog? Consider these factors to make sure you're a match
(ARA) - There are plenty of cliche things that people say about dogs: that they're man's best friend, that they love you unconditionally and that behind those cold noses, there are warm hearts. But while dog owners might feel a bit silly about repeating those old chestnuts, they'll also admit they're absolutely true.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThe dirty truth about fleas
(ARA) - When fleas are spotted in the home, it's our pets that take the blame. But did you know that for every flea you see, there could be a much bigger problem hiding in the bedding, carpets, furniture and floorboards of your home? The truth is, flea eggs, maggot-like larvae and pupae represent 95 percent of a flea infestation, and they thrive not on your pet, but in the places your pet likes to snuggle - on the couch, under the porch, even in your bed.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTWelcome a new pet into your home with these tips
(ARA) - Congratulations! You're a pet owner. Bringing a new pet home is an exciting experience but requires some preparation. That adorable ball of energy covered in fur will interact with just about every inch of living space and your life is about to be enriched in ways you've never dreamed possible.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCut pet care costs with DIY dog grooming
In today's economy, people are looking for ways to cut spending wherever possible. And while we all love our furry and four-legged friends, the cost of pet care can range anywhere from $700 to $3,000 per year.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTReal Estate
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Save money with an 'enlightened' roof - and decorate too
(ARA) - Enlightenment isn't just a state of mind - it can also be an important energy-saving state of being for your home's roof. By "enlightening" your roof, you can use less energy, save money, and dress up the interior of your home at the same time.
Monday, January 2, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips for a secure home and peace of mind
(ARA) - Homeowners often worry about keeping their homes safe and secure for their families. And it's no wonder: nearly 70 percent of home break-ins are in the form of kick-ins to a door, according to the U. S. Department of Justice.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat to do when you receive a foreclosure notice
A foreclosure notice is the last thing any homeowner wants to receive. Many times the notice isn't much of a surprise. But there have been documented cases where the notice of foreclosure was in error - an incorrect address, a misfiling of payments or even worse, an incomplete review of the file, leading to an inaccurate foreclosure status.
Sunday, October 16, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow new home trends can apply to remodeling existing homes
(ARA) - A significant shift in consumer preference in new home purchases is the latest by-product of the still-struggling economy. The residential construction market is shrinking and so are houses.
Thursday, January 5, 2012 6:00 PM CSTLoans make purchasing rural property easier
Rural living is popular for many families looking to raise their children outside the hustle and bustle of city life. If you've imagined your children running unhindered through acres of backyard, or developing a baseball game in the field with your nearest neighbors, you're probably looking into living in a more rural area.
Sunday, November 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTransforming your exterior: lessons from the professionals
(ARA) - With more and more homeowners choosing to stay in their current homes instead of selling, many are deciding to remodel.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSix factors to consider before installing a gas fireplace
(ARA) - A gas fireplace can add ambiance and warmth to any room, and with the cold weather, you might be dreaming of adding one in your home. Because purchasing a fireplace is not something we do every day, there are some important things to consider.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPlan now for home improvement throughout the year
(ARA) - If you've finished making your holiday gift list, don't put the pen and paper away just yet. While the holidays take up a lot of attention right now, it's also a great time to look a bit further into the future. With the new year just around the corner, planning for home improvement projects now can help you prioritize and budget.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTA blanket for your house: energy-efficient, insulated siding
(ARA) - With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however, one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home's framing.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to avoid the 5 mistakes small landlords commonly make
Whether you're looking to make a little extra money, or are just waiting for the market to turn around before you sell, there are benefits to renting additional property you own. While being a landlord has its perks, there is some risk involved. If you're renting your property, or are thinking about doing so, there are some things you can do to make sure you protect yourself.
Sunday, October 23, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTax credit and deduction tips for home improvement in 2012
(ARA) - With the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you'll use your credit to fund them. While it's important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also consider another kind of credit - tax credits for energy efficient home improvements.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPlanning your new kitchen - renew or redo?
(ARA) - Upgrading the kitchen is on many homeowners' "to do" list. And for good reason. A minor kitchen remodel ranks fourth on the list of the top 10 home improvement projects that deliver return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine's 2010-11 Cost vs. Value Report.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTToday's boomers downsize homes, but upsize the amenities
(ARA) - Say goodbye to the McMansion. According to a leading real estate website, Trulia.com, 2010 was officially the year that homes over 3,200 square feet ended their dominance and appeal. But don't think that downsizing means downgrading. In fact, homeowners are looking to upsize their amenities to help them enjoy every inch of their homes.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTBuying a fixer-upper? How to make the most of your remodel
(ARA) - With home prices and interest rates still low across the country, and inventories high, it's a great time to be in the market for a fixer-upper. By buying a house that needs some work, you can achieve your dream home for less than you would probably pay for a move-in-ready abode.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTEasy-to-change seasonal decorating ideas
(ARA) - When spring arrives with its bright sunshine, fresh air, vibrant colors and light, do you find yourself regretting the decorating decisions you made last fall or winter? It's natural to incorporate the season into your home decor, and the best way to do that is with design touches that can change as easily - and quickly - as the seasons themselves.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSeasonal
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Charitable giving: Important tips for tax season
(ARA) - 'Tis the season to be giving. The holidays are a great time to give back to those who need it most and what better way to give than to donate to your favorite charity?
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat you need to know when stomach flu strikes your home
(ARA) - With the stomach flu season upon us, parents know that the stomach flu could be lurking on any doorknob or shared toy. Unfortunately, what parents don't know could be making the symptoms of stomach flu worse for little ones.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTYour New Year's resolution might be even more important than you think
(ARA) - Every January, many Americans make New Year's resolutions, many of them to improve their health in the new year. We change our diets, start exercising and make our annual doctors' appointments for physical check-ups. As you work toward a healthier you in 2012, here are some helpful tips to aid your discussion with your doctor.
Monday, January 16, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSurefire tactics to fill your backyard with birdsong this winter
(ARA) - Shorter days, dropping temperatures and dealing with snow and ice can give many people a serious case of the winter doldrums. Most of us won't be able to fight winter blues with a tropical getaway or a spa weekend. But there is an easy, convenient way to give yourself an emotional boost during the winter, and do something good for nature at the same time: feed wild birds.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTry adding a twist to your holiday staples this year
(ARA) - We look forward to the holidays for many reasons, and the food is often near the top of the list. But while traditional holiday dishes are a familiar comfort that everyone in the family can look forward to, there's no harm in adding a slight twist to your staples to give them a gourmet touch.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't let the holidays leave your wallet empty
Decking the halls, putting presents under the tree and hosting friends and family make the holidays special, but they can also take a toll on your budget. Since many families are feeling a financial pinch these days, it can seem almost impossible to enjoy the season to the fullest.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011 7:00 PM CDTCreating a spooktacular Halloween for your family
(ARA) - Halloween is a time for crazy costumes, ghost stories, sugar-buzzed kids and all things that go bump in the night.
Thursday, October 13, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGreat gifts for the holiday season
(ARA) - The holiday season is upon us. With your goal to wrap up all your holiday shopping by June long since passed, the pressure to find that impossibly perfect gift for everyone on your list now has an overbearing timestamp as well.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to hit the slopes on a budget
(ARA) - Planning a ski trip starts with answering these three questions: What mountain should I ski/snowboard? Where should I stay while I'm there? And how much am I willing to spend on lift tickets and equipment rental? A ski excursion can easily cost a traveler thousands of dollars, but consumers who are frugal can get by on about $150 a day per person without sacrificing creature comforts. Here are some money-saving strategies for planning this season's ski trip:
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive hot fitness tips for cold weather
(ARA) - Finding time for exercise during the hectic holiday months can be challenging. For many people, a fitness regime gets tossed out with the wrapping paper. This makes getting back into a consistent exercise routine for the New Year an essential but difficult battle. And during dark winter months, fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures can decrease motivation for even the most dedicated fitness buffs.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for a beautiful holiday - even at the 11th hour
(ARA) - As holiday decor springs up and seasonal tunes begin to flood the airwaves, it's time to embrace the most wonderful time of the year. If you didn't line up on Black Friday, and decking the halls is something you typically save for the last-minute, not to worry.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTire tips for winter driving
(ARA) - As the weather outside gets frightful, now is a good time to make sure your vehicle's tires are prepared for snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Sixty-three percent of Americans are concerned about skidding and icy roadways as the thermometer's mercury drops, according to a recent survey commissioned by Hankook Tire America Corp. To ensure safety and peace of mind as you venture out on a snowy day, here are some tire tips to consider:
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTax resolutions for the new year
(ARA) - It might be coincidental that the new year and the beginning of tax season arrive so close together. Many people resolve to be wiser with their money in the new year, and it just so happens that being smart about your taxes is a good way to get started.
Monday, December 26, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTop 2012 garden and lifestyle trends: cultivate the new good life with the power of plants
(ARA) - In today's world where news travels at the speed of now, people are searching for balance and purpose and are tapping into the power of plants to cultivate the 'new good life'.
Monday, December 26, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive tips to stay warm and reduce energy costs
(ARA) - As winter approaches and the outdoor temperature drops, energy consumption is on the rise. Homeowners can implement these five tips to help reduce their home's energy use and costs, yet maintain a warm and comfortable indoor environment, this winter.
Monday, November 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFind the perfect snow thrower for you
(ARA) - With only a few weeks until the official start of winter, now is the perfect time to choose a snow thrower before the blizzards hit. With so many options on the market, which one is right for you?
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow small businesses can protect their floors and technology this winter
(ARA) - Snow, ice, wind and cold temperatures bring a host of problems that facility and IT managers must plan and prepare for ahead of the winter season. Not only do they need to consider the damaging effects that salt and sand have on flooring, but they should prepare for potential power outages that could impact their technology infrastructure.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSimple ways to personalize your holiday decor
(ARA) - What do the holidays mean to you? It's a special time of year for many people, and many of us share similar tastes and traditions when it comes to how we decorate and celebrate. But if you're craving something different this year, personalizing your holiday decor can be a great way to put a fresh face on the season.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTA different holiday perspective: It's the little things that matter most
(ARA) - The "magic" of the holiday season across the U.S. seems to arrive earlier and earlier each year, and so by late October, many store shelves are already stocked and awaiting excited shoppers. Families snap up Rudolph figures with light-up noses, jolly Santas for front porch displays, and whimsical decorations with which to deck the halls. About that same time, giddy children begin contemplating their gift lists, trying to decide which technology gadget or must-have pair of shoes should go on top. Menus are set, families plan travel and the expectation of a prosperous New Year looms.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTComposting, crafts and cuisine: Using what's in your garden
(ARA) - The cooler temperatures and changing colors of fall draw many people outdoors to explore what nature has to offer. The summer harvest has made room for many cold weather crops for those in the north, and tomatoes are just beginning to blossom for those in the southwest. Regardless of where you live, the fall garden still offers a lot to be used and discovered.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTSeven tips to safely shop online this holiday season
(ARA) - Black Friday and the ensuing holiday shopping season have become stressful times in every consumer's year. Standing in line for six hours in the freezing cold outside the local big-box store and battling ravenous hordes of deal-seekers is not the ideal. That is why many shoppers have been driven to seek the convenience and lower prices of cyber storefronts. But online shopping comes at a risk, especially for those who don't take simple precautions.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHave you made these six tax mistakes? How to avoid them this year
(ARA) - Tax time is a stressful time, even for the most prepared filer. And for the many people who aren't perfectly prepared when the season rolls around, each commercial, ad or sign that mentions tax preparation can be a painful reminder that the daunting task still lies ahead.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTYour money: Last-minute tax tips
(ARA) - Are you among the millions of Americans who scramble every year to meet Uncle Sam's income tax filing deadline?
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTValentine's Day gift-giving tips
(ARA) - Giving your significant other the right gift can make or break your Valentine's celebration. If you're also giving something to your best friend, mom and children, you may need a little help finding the perfect token.
Sunday, January 15, 2012 6:00 PM CSTMake your home ready for the holidays with easy, affordable decor updates
(ARA) - Welcoming friends and family into your home is one of the best ways to celebrate the season. One of the keys to making visitors feel right at home is to be a happy host. So, do yourself - and your guests - a favor and put a little effort into getting your home holiday houseguest perfect.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow you can help children of incarcerated parents during the holidays
(ARA) - Drug abuse. Divorce. Homelessness. Imprisonment. Little Forrest has witnessed them all. With his father in prison and his mom lost in a haze of drug abuse, Forrest's maternal grandparents took custody of him when he was just 2 years old. For Forrest, his dad's prison sentence seemed like a punishment for him, too.
Monday, December 5, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive ways to make holiday entertaining easy
(ARA) - Whether hosting a holiday meal for the family or an open house for the neighborhood, entertaining can be stressful - especially during the holidays when there's so much pressure to make everything perfect.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGiving green: Natural ways to spread holiday cheer
(ARA) - The holidays are a time for celebrating, reflecting on the past year and exchanging gifts with friends and family. However, unique and meaningful ideas can be a daunting task. Gifts that keep giving and growing are a perfect solution. Plants are not just beautiful, but also cheer up any space and even improve air quality in a home or office space.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011 7:00 PM CDTBuying online? How to find reliable product reviews
(ARA) - More of us than ever before will do at least part of our holiday shopping online this year, foregoing the hassles of in-store purchasing. In fact, in 2010, online shoppers spent more than $1 billion on Cyber Monday (the Monday immediately following Thanksgiving), according to one study.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEase the stress of grocery shopping during busy winter months
(ARA) - Hectic schedules, combined with unpredictable winter weather, often make meal-related decisions a chore. Affordable and simpler shopping routines could help you start savoring family meal time again.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSenior Living
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Fighting arthritis? Exercise tips for all ability levels
(ARA) - When it comes to fighting arthritis, there's no arguing with the axiom "move it or lose it." Movement and physical activity have been proven effective in relieving arthritis pain and, in some cases, delaying the onset of symptoms. But if you've been recently diagnosed with arthritis, or have been battling the disorder without much success, you may be unsure just what, or how much, physical activity will help you.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThree P's to fulfilling your financial New Year's resolutions
(ARA) - Financial resolutions are notoriously difficult to keep. Thirty-one percent of Americans set a financial New Year's resolution each year and only about half of them are successful, according to a 2009 study by Bankrate.com.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat 26 million Americans should know about diabetes and oral health
(ARA) - People living with diabetes need to take care of and monitor their health very closely. While monitoring their blood glucose is usually top of mind, the 26 million Americans living with diabetes may be surprised to learn that 95 percent have a form of gum disease. This is compared to only 50 percent of the general population. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes are twice as likely to develop serious gum disease as people without diabetes.
Sunday, November 13, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't miss a beat in 2012: Get the facts about fats and heart health
(ARA) - With heart disease the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it's time to listen to your heart and get the right kinds of fats into your daily diet. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends consuming polyunsaturated fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, for heart health. But what are these "good fats" and how do you make them a part of your daily nutrition program?
Thursday, January 19, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWaking up to the serious problem of sleep apnea
(ARA) - Many people struggling to get a restful night's sleep are unaware that a serious health problem may be keeping them up. Sleep apnea, which affects 18 million Americans, is a disorder which causes breathing to repeatedly pause during sleep. Sleep apnea lowers a person's blood oxygen level and results in a fragmented sleep pattern - making for a potentially dangerous health situation.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to protect your heart and increase your energy levels
(ARA) - One of the secrets to enjoying life while aging is to take care of your heart. Heart health is important for Americans to discuss with their doctors, as heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in the United States.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTPlanning tips for multi-generational family travel
(ARA) - No matter how strong the familial bonds, traveling with multiple generations of family members can be a challenge. Perhaps Grandpa loves visiting historic sites, while his toddler granddaughter prefers amusement parks. Grandma relishes museum hopping while Mom wants to shop the day away. And the only thing they all agree on is the need for an afternoon nap.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTYour legacy of giving: Review your beneficiary lists during the holiday season
(ARA) - The holiday season is in full swing, and amid the flurry of preparations, your will and legacy may be the last things on your mind.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTake control of your arthritis pain
(ARA) - Arthritis affects the lives of nearly one in five American adults and limits the lives of countless citizens each year. In fact, arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States, and yet only 11 percent of those with arthritis participate in widely available, low-cost self-management workshops that help people manage symptoms, increase activity, and maintain independence.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe link between chronic disease and hearing loss: Are you at risk?
(ARA) - Hearing loss isn't a harmless condition to be ignored. In fact, hearing loss often coexists with other serious health problems. And a growing body of research indicates that there may be a link. Studies show that people with heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer's disease, and depression may all have an increased risk of hearing loss.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTOveractive bladder? What you should know if you always 'gotta go'
(ARA) - Do you constantly feel like you "gotta go"? When you leave the house, do you always look where the nearest bathroom is, just in case? Bladder control problems are more common than you might think. Having an Overactive Bladder can affect your quality of life, and 16 percent of the adult population, or about 33 million people, have this condition, according to the Journal of Urology.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCentenarians can leave a lasting legacy by donating DNA to science
(ARA) - Living to 100 years old is a remarkable feat in itself, but now 100 centenarians will have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that could radically change medical care for generations to come.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTAre you retirement ready? What you need to consider
(ARA) - The idea of retirement is both exciting and daunting. After leaving the workforce, you'll have the opportunity to pursue dreams that you have envisioned for your retirement. But you'll need to have the financial wherewithal to fund those dreams and cover your day-to-day living expenses.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011 7:00 PM CDTIdeas for 're-feathering' your empty nest on the cheap
(ARA) - The kids are finally on their own and you're ready to reclaim some spaces in your home that were previously dedicated to child's play. Even though as empty-nesters you probably won't spend so much on food, education and gas money, you're still not ready to go into debt to redecorate the once-kid-centric rooms in your home.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012 6:00 PM CSTWorried about an older relative's driving?
(ARA) - When families are gathered together this holiday season, you may start to notice changes in an older relative's driving behaviors and begin to have some concerns. You are not alone.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTThe beautiful truth of aging - 4 steps for a healthy and active mind
(ARA) - With age comes the inevitable anxiety of mental decline. A common misconception is brain health is predetermined and can't be changed - it's the "you're stuck with what you got" notion. But experts suggest brain health can be positively influenced throughout different stages in life.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRemodeling for aging in place today will help sell your home tomorrow
(ARA) - Only one in 10 adults believes this is a good time to sell a home, according to Fannie Mae's September 2011 National Housing Survey. If you're on hold in the real estate market, now is the time to get your house in order - literally. Make the right changes today, and you'll get a better price tomorrow.
Thursday, October 27, 2011 7:00 PM CDTMove over apples: For some patients, an aspirin-a-day may keep the doctor away
(ARA) - The statistics are staggering: As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular (or heart) disease accounts for more than 2,200 deaths per day, or one every 39 seconds. Furthermore, the American Heart Association (AHA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently estimate that every year about 785,000 Americans will have their first heart attack, and another 470,000 will have a recurrent attack.
Thursday, January 26, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFive ways to avoid costly repetitive stress injuries
(ARA) - Some may think that injuries in the workplace only happen to those who work high-intensity jobs like construction workers, firefighters or police officers. But you're probably unaware that sitting at your computer and typing - something you do every day - can leave you at risk for significant pain and discomfort.
Monday, October 31, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow the right home updates help seniors age well at home
(ARA) - Whether you are a senior yourself, or have a loved one who is older, living independently in the home is a priority. With the right precautions and a few necessary safety modifications, many seniors can continue to thrive in their own homes.
Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 PM CDTAre little urine leaks a big problem? How to talk to your doctor
(ARA) - Your friend tells you a funny joke, and then it happens. You start pedaling during your spinning class, and it happens again. You hear water running and oops, you know you will also be wet. You might feel frustrated and embarrassed, but you are not alone. In fact, these types of urine leaks are quite common. Up to 50 percent of all women have occasional urine leaks and up to 10 percent have them frequently, according to the MedlinePlus Encyclopedia.
Monday, January 30, 2012 6:00 PM CSTChoosing the right Medicare plan: Look beyond premiums
(ARA) - Each year, millions of seniors are able to enroll into a new Medicare prescription drug plan (PDP), and the vast number of available options can make this a daunting task. Choosing a Medicare prescription plan can seem confusing, so the more you know, the easier it will be to find one that makes the most sense for you.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTToday's boomers downsize homes, but upsize the amenities
(ARA) - Say goodbye to the McMansion. According to a leading real estate website, Trulia.com, 2010 was officially the year that homes over 3,200 square feet ended their dominance and appeal. But don't think that downsizing means downgrading. In fact, homeowners are looking to upsize their amenities to help them enjoy every inch of their homes.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTAddressing the four most common post-retirement challenges
(ARA) - There are plenty of reasons to rejoice about retirement - more time to spend with your family, the ability to travel more and the opportunity to pursue your true passions. And today's retirees can also appreciate the fact that on average, people continue to outlive previous generations.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTell diabetes 'not me' this winter and holiday season
(ARA) - Each winter, the cold weather and holiday festivities can bring special challenges to the nearly 26 million Americans living with diabetes - and the 79 million with prediabetes who are at grave risk of developing it.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWinter weather especially harsh for those with diabetes
(ARA) - Trekking through the mall on holiday shopping excursions, shoveling out the driveway and playing in the snow with the kids - every winter, your feet log some long, chilly hours. For people with health issues like diabetes, foot health is especially important when the weather turns cold, as the disease can affect your body's circulation even more so during the winter months.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTPlanning for the inevitable: Start young and be prepared
(ARA) - Ashley, a vibrant, active 37-year-old lawyer, mother of three young children and part-time Pilates instructor has a to-do list longer than her combined client case load. When she learned that her next-door neighbor, a mother of four children who pal around with her kids, had terminal cancer, her mind went in many directions.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 6:00 PM CST2012 homes will mix old and new designs under one (smaller) roof
(ARA) - Today's consumer mindset is steeped in common sense and careful decisions. When making a purchase, individuals aren't looking to accumulate "stuff." They're looking to buy an experience. That experiential purchasing behavior is especially true when it comes to selecting items for the home. Current home decorating is not about flashy, over-the-top design; rather, it's about decorating for real life - a home that's smaller, more well-equipped and custom-made for its owners' lifestyles.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhen hearing aids aren't enough, cochlear implants can help
(ARA) - Straining to hear each day, even when using powerful advanced hearing aids? Feeling frustrated and sometimes even exhausted from listening? Whether it happens suddenly or gradually over time, hearing loss can affect physical and emotional health. Being unable to hear impacts one's ability to socialize with friends, communicate with co-workers, and can force people to become more reliant on family members to constantly interpret for them.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHealth plans don't just pay the bills - they can help keep you healthy
(ARA) - Many people think of their health insurer or health plan as the company that pays their medical bills when they get sick or visit the doctor. They may not realize that their health plan can be so much more - a place to find health and wellness programs that can help them stay healthy or help manage ongoing medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTech Talk And Innovation
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Simple ways small businesses can protect their data from disaster
(ARA) - Small or large, domestic or international, modern businesses run (or fail) on data. If you're a small-business owner, data - from customer email addresses to your bank account numbers - is vital to your company's success. Protecting data is as important as generating sales.
Sunday, October 30, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTechnology gifts for the whole family
(ARA) - Buying holiday gifts can be a fun and easy experience when you go to the right place, and there is a certain joy that you get when you see someone opening a gift they've been waiting for all year. No matter the age of the person you're buying for, there is one kind of product that is perfect for everyone: technology. Whether it's new headphones, a USB flash drive for a stocking stuffer, or an e-reader, there is something for everyone.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011 6:00 PM CSTMore demand, fewer grads mean tech careers continue to boom
(ARA) - The era of the Internet start-up boom may be over, but demand for technology professionals continues to rise. Broader use of cheaper, more easily available technology by a variety of industries, and a dearth of technology professionals mean technology will continue to be a hot career choice.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011 7:00 PM CDTRevolutionize family night with the newest technology
(ARA) - The concept of reserving one night periodically for a family night is one that goes back generations, whether playing different card games, watching a movie, board games or games that only require creativity, like charades. While those activities are still household staples, family night now involves technology as much as it does creativity - and with family holiday parties coming, finding new and innovative ways to keep everyone entertained are a must.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTechnology becoming the top learning tool in classrooms
(ARA) - Gone are the days where a teacher stood at the chalkboard - her back to the classroom - demonstrating a math equation. Technology has taken over elementary, middle and high schools across the country, allowing teachers to interact with and educate students in a more hands-on way.
Sunday, August 28, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGreat gifts for gadget lovers of all ages
(ARA) - Have someone on your holiday shopping list who can't get enough of the latest gadgets? While you might be thinking that it's tough to buy for someone who always seems to have the newest version of every type of hand-held device, shopping for these folks is easier - and less expensive - than you might think.
Thursday, October 20, 2011 7:00 PM CDTFive handy apps for the festive season
(ARA) - The holiday season is full of festivities from children's plays to office parties to checking off shopping lists. That means many consumers are multitasking. Never fear, there are an array of apps for both the iPad and smartphones to help you accomplish your seasonal tasks on the go.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for working smarter outside of the traditional office environment
(ARA) - For many professionals, life in a cubicle is a thing of the past. Going into work could very well mean taking a stroll down the hall to your home office or heading to the coffee shop down the street. Employers are even moving past the cube-and-office model, and instead incorporating more common areas and ad-hoc spaces that promote collaboration and flexibility.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTLow-cost gamer gifts that keep on giving
(ARA) - Video gaming's popularity is at an all-time high - in fact, a recent study from Memorex shows four of five families have at least one gaming console in the home. This holiday season, skip a pricey console purchase and give your favorite gamer a gift that keeps on giving. Here are four gift options under $25 that won't break your budget and will keep video game fans entertained well into the new year.
Monday, October 17, 2011 7:00 PM CDTDating safety: Don't let them steal more than your heart
(ARA) - When your grandparents started dating, chances are they knew each other already or had mutual friends. In those days, a blind date - going out with someone you hadn't met or knew nothing about - was a rarity. Today, with the boom in online dating, going on first dates with strangers is commonplace, while dating a friend seems like the "old-fashioned" approach.
Thursday, January 26, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHow to create a small business website
Getting your personal or small business website up and running could be a daunting task that puts some people into "analysis paralysis" mode. Creating a website should not be a terrifying experience and thankfully there are solutions that have addressed these fears.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFinding the perfect gift for grandma and grandpa
(ARA) - With the holidays approaching, shoppers are making their lists and checking them twice. Undoubtedly, there are some blanks, as buying for grandparents often stymies children and grandchildren alike.
Thursday, November 10, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to guard against flash drive data loss
Flash drives have been particularly popular for users with load-it-up and carry-it-along storage needs and have come a long way from just being old-school portable stiffy-disk replacements. Consumers can buy expensive high-capacity flash drives, as well as secured flash drives with password protection and encryption and flash drives come in all shapes and sizes.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips for a secure home and peace of mind
(ARA) - Homeowners often worry about keeping their homes safe and secure for their families. And it's no wonder: nearly 70 percent of home break-ins are in the form of kick-ins to a door, according to the U. S. Department of Justice.
Monday, December 19, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat 11 moments will you remember from 2011?
(ARA) - As the year winds down, the events of 2011 become water cooler conversation. Reflections of what happened in the world beyond one's front door take the form of "top moments" and "best ofs."
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTop online searches show political and social attitude of 2011
(ARA) - Notorious trials, political scandals and social uprisings drew people online, but the death of Osama bin Laden and the dominance of the iPhone - fueled by the passing of Apple founder Steve Jobs - topped online searches and news in 2011.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips to simplify your tech life
(ARA) - Technology is wonderful - when it is simple and works. Anyone who's ever had to run both a PC and a Mac in order to be able to use the applications they need understands that the technology we depend upon to make our lives easier can sometimes complicate things.
Sunday, January 15, 2012 6:00 PM CSTSmartphones and tablets contribute to explosive growth of video chat this holiday season
Many consumers will be using new electronic devices to connect face to face with family and friends as the popularity of smartphones and tablet computers with front- and rear-facing cameras is expected to drive much of the growth of video chat over the holidays.
Sunday, December 4, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for passing down family photos in the digital age
(ARA) - For many years, photography meant developing a roll of film at the local store, sliding your glossy prints into a photo album and then placing them on your bookshelf. Digital photography changed all that, and now your photos live on computers, hard drives, CDs, USB drives and even your phone. But just because photos rarely go into leather-bound albums doesn't mean that they're any less precious. The evolution of photography has changed the ways in which we use photos - and it makes sense to think differently about how to preserve and pass on your treasured memories.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011 6:00 PM CSTInstall a protective barrier against spyware and malware
Turning on the computer and opening programs can feel as natural as the sun rising in the morning and setting at night. Most of us now use our PCs at work and home to access the Internet for surfing, sending and checking emails, downloading videos and music files, and playing online games.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTCreate the ultimate at-home stadium experience this sports season
(ARA) - With fall in the air, that means one thing for sports fans: its game time. Between the hard-hitting pro and college football seasons moving into high gear, the puck dropping on the hockey season and heart-pounding UFC and boxing cards, sports fans have countless games, matches and battles to enjoy.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHoliday travel and shopping season prompt increased concern for home safety
(ARA) - We all fondly remember it - young Macaulay Culkin defending his home from rough and tough burglars Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern with a fake dinner party, booby traps and even a hot iron. But while "Home Alone" is a fun holiday movie to watch, it's also a good reminder of the dark side that the holiday travel and shopping season can bring: home robberies. With the extreme rush and excitement of the holiday season, homeowners focus on shopping and travel rather than the safety of their homes, and basic steps to protect households are often overlooked.
Monday, November 14, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWhat do you do while you're waiting for your PC to start up?
When you turn on your PC at home, do you first flip the power button, and then go and run a load of laundry, or better yet, wash the dinner dishes while you wait for your computer to boot up?
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTGet motivated with smartphones
(ARA) - If you're setting a goal for this semester, make it a double: be productive and engaged, all while staying socially connected on campus. Smartphones let you do it all, from staying on top of your academic work and never missing a social event to helping to nail down the perfect internship opportunity.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHelp get your PC running faster in no time
There is nothing more frustrating than a slow PC, especially when you're trying to juggle several programs and files at once. When it takes your computer half a minute to save a document - distracting you from efficiently finishing your tasks - then you know something is bogging down your computer.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011 7:00 PM CDTTips for mounting that greatest of holiday gifts: a flat screen TV
(ARA) - Flat screen TVs are sure to be a popular holiday gift this year, as they've been for the past several holiday seasons. Last year, flat screen prices tumbled before the holiday shopping season, and retailers are likely to offer deals again this year.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTUse your photos to make personalized holiday gifts that last a lifetime
(ARA) - Finding that perfect holiday gift for friends and family is always challenging. Clothes are difficult unless you know the perfect size and style. You can miss the mark on books and music if you're not intimately familiar with the genres that interest the recipient. One type of gift that will never go out of style is the personal, handmade present.
Thursday, October 13, 2011 7:00 PM CDTThe revolutionary technology that's making smartphones even smarter
(ARA) - Smartphones are about to become much smarter. Imagine a world where completing transactions, exchanging digital content, connecting electronic devices and accessing buildings and venues can all be done with a simple wave or tap of your smartphone.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTExperts expect smartphones to overtake personal computers in 2012
(ARA) - Smartphones are steadily becoming commonplace devices for everyone from professionals to busy moms. Users of these devices now instinctively turn to their phones for tasks that previously they would only have accomplished on a computer, over the phone or in person. These tasks include surfing the Web, obtaining driving directions, connecting via social media, and even shopping.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012 6:00 PM CSTOnline payments and tech innovations mean new opportunities for small organizations
For a lot of small organizations, the transition to a more digital world has been a tough one. At first, cost seemed prohibitive. Then as costs came down, concerns arose about having the expertise to really develop a worthwhile online presence. However, in today's fast-paced world of technology, if there's a need, a solution isn't far behind.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTravel
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The heat is on: Five getaways to kindle the romance
(ARA) - Romance is in the air. Whether you are celebrating Valentine's Day, planning a honeymoon, or just looking for a fun getaway with your better half, these trip ideas are guaranteed to ignite a spark.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012 6:00 PM CSTAuto tech gadgets more appealing to Americans than safety features
(ARA) - Whether you're planning a short trip to the store or a long ride across the country, getting behind the wheel is the easy part. Staying safe while driving, on the other hand, takes a bit more work.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011 7:00 PM CDTA Vietnam tour puts a fascinating country within every traveler's reach
More than anything, travel changes perspectives. In years past, travel to a country like Vietnam might have been perceived as impossible. However, with the passage of time and the building of relationships, travelers have discovered that the country is a jewel in the Southeast Asian crown. Today, a Vietnam tour makes it easy for anyone to experience the magic and dynamic change taking place in the country, and discover why it's becoming a must-see in the region.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTCelebrate the holidays with travel deals and discounts
(ARA) - The holiday season is the perfect time to hit the road and celebrate with loved ones, but travel expenses tend to skyrocket around this busy time of year. With a bit of planning and research, there are many easy ways to save on travel, lodging and activities around the holidays.
Monday, October 24, 2011 7:00 PM CDTPlanning tips for multi-generational family travel
(ARA) - No matter how strong the familial bonds, traveling with multiple generations of family members can be a challenge. Perhaps Grandpa loves visiting historic sites, while his toddler granddaughter prefers amusement parks. Grandma relishes museum hopping while Mom wants to shop the day away. And the only thing they all agree on is the need for an afternoon nap.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTItaly tours: hidden treasures that let you savor the best of the country
If you're planning a trip to Italy, you're confronted by an almost overwhelming number of options. However, Italy tours from Tauck are hidden treasures that let you savor the best of the country. Italy remains one of the most popular overseas destinations for American travelers, and that popularity translates to a plethora of tours and packages that attract tourists. But if you want to get the most out of your trip, and you're after something more than a cookie-cutter experience, you need to remember that not all Italy tours are built the same.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRiver cruises put an elegant spin on touring Europe
A trip to Europe has universal appeal, but not everyone feels ready for the practical side of the proposition. For some travelers, the challenges of independently planning a trip to countries where they might not speak the language is enough to put them off. However, the increasingly popular option of river cruises gives you the best of a European travel experience with a minimum of effort.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTChina travel: Explore the history and culture of one of the world's most fascinating countries
In recent years, the eyes of the world have been trained on China. The rapid changes in its economy and politics have made it a front-page staple, but for travelers, the allure of China is far richer. The country is one of the oldest in the world, and for those seeking a diversity of experiences, spanning centuries, cultures and landscapes, China travel can offer all of that and more.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012 6:00 PM CSTThe Grand Canyon: How to get an in-depth view of America's natural wonder
(ARA) - The world is full of amazing things to see, but there are a select few sites that people agree are truly wonders of the world. The tradition started a long time ago, in ancient Greece, when Antipater of Sidon listed the unrivaled buildings of the day. More recently, new lists of world wonders have been proposed including both man-made and natural sites, providing the perfect blueprint for a traveler's "bucket list". Luckily, Americans can start checking things off right in their own spectacular backyard by taking a Grand Canyon tour.
Sunday, January 29, 2012 6:00 PM CSTTips to prepare your auto for winter travel
(ARA) - The cold snap has arrived and the stormy winter days and dark evenings are here. It is time to prepare your car for the winter months to minimize the risk of a breakdown. Such breakdowns could be avoided by carrying out regular checks, so motorists are advised to follow these steps to minimize the risk.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012 6:00 PM CSTFree (or almost free) things to do on your holiday vacation
Let's face it, it's impossible to travel cheap if you're planning a holiday vacation. After the air fare and the hotel, you've just about maxed out your budget. Whether you're hitting the slopes in Colorado or relaxing on the beach in Maui, here are some activities for the kids so that they can still have a blast without spending all your cash.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFight the 'Are we there yet?' blues
(ARA) - Whether you're flying across the country or driving to grandma's house, traveling with kids - of any age - can be stressful, especially during the holidays. There is a 33.4 percent chance that a flight will be late, cancelled or diverted nationwide during the winter holiday period, according to a USA Today survey. 'Tis the season for gridlock alerts nationwide as well.
Sunday, November 6, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive tips to avoid being an identity theft victim while on vacation
(ARA) - Whether you are planning a trip over the holidays or looking ahead to the spring or summer for a family vacation, realize that identity theft can happen wherever you are and also where you're not. More than 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year, according to the Federal Trade Commission. When someone uses your personal information - your name, Social Security number or credit card number - without permission, they are stealing your identity.
Thursday, November 17, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips for smooth and successful holiday travel
(ARA) - Planning a surprise visit to Grandma and Grandpa for the holidays or a family trip to celebrate the new year? Holiday travel can be stressful, but with some careful planning, it can be full of joy, instead of headaches. Check out these holiday travel tips to help you get through this busy time with ease.
Monday, December 12, 2011 6:00 PM CSTFive money-saving tips for family travel
(ARA) - The slow economy hasn't hindered travel plans for most families. Family travelers take an average of 4.5 trips each year, according to the U.S. Travel Association. Savvy families are able to travel and build lasting memories by making trips more affordable with the help of simple money-saving solutions.
Monday, January 23, 2012 6:00 PM CSTHelp make your dreams a reality with wedding insurance
(ARA) - Getting married is a dream. Who hasn't fantasized about the dress, the jewelry, your dad walking you down the aisle, the music, the cake, the reception following the ceremony?
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTWarm up to cool-weather vacationing with these tips
(ARA) - Cooler weather doesn't mean your outdoor fun has to cool off too. Plenty of travel destinations, especially those in southern states, offer temperate climates and ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment throughout fall and into winter.
Thursday, October 6, 2011 7:00 PM CDTGermany river cruises showcase unexpected beauty in the heart of Europe
Fast cars, conceptual art and great steins of beer might all come to mind when you think of Germany, but the country situated in the heart of Europe offers more than you might expect. And here's a tip: Germany river cruises are an unparalleled way to experience the hidden allure of the country.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTRising expectations: Even in South, road crews know citizens demand speedy snow and ice removal
(ARA) - In Georgia, people used to understand that heavy snow was a relative rarity and removing it would take time for Sun Belt transportation agencies ill-equipped to deal with more than a few inches.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 6:00 PM CSTSpring's greatest showcase: the Centennial National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.
(ARA) - There's nothing more beautiful than the coming of spring after a long winter. As grass grows green and the air warms, nature puts on a spectacular show that manages to impress year after year. Nowhere is spring's beauty more vibrantly on display than at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Celebration in Washington, D.C. This year marks a storied and once-in-a-lifetime event, the 100 year anniversary of the arrival of Japanese flowering cherry trees in D.C.'s West Potomac Park.
Sunday, December 11, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't let winter weather catch you by surprise behind the wheel
(ARA) - This year, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads and facing cold temperatures, along with the snowy and icy conditions winter weather brings. These factors are not only a nuisance, but at times, very dangerous, even for the most confident and experienced drivers. Simple driving maneuvers, such as starting, stopping and making turns can become very challenging if vehicles are not properly prepared for inclement weather.
Sunday, November 20, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEurope tours: A variety of options let you see the continent your way
(ARA) - From the fragrant lavender fields of Provence to the Gothic spires of Prague's skyline, Europe is a treasure trove of sensory experiences. A lifetime of travel on the continent would let you see it all, but for those with more limited time, carefully planned Europe tours can do more than just take you to the major sights - it can immerse you in the culture and lifestyle that have made Europe the ultimate destination for generations of travelers.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHealth advice for small-business travelers
When you're home, it is probably easier to work out and watch what you eat. But on the road, it can be a challenge to maintain healthy habits.
Sunday, November 27, 2011 6:00 PM CSTTips that make family travel easy and enjoyable
Family travel is one of the greatest experiences you can have with your loved ones. The trip will mean different things to everyone who comes along - for kids, it will be a source of lifetime memories; for parents, it's a unique bonding experience with their kids; and for grandparents and other relatives, it's a chance to spend uninterrupted time together. But for all involved, traveling together as a family is an opportunity that shouldn't be passed by.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011 6:00 PM CSTDon't let sore feet trip up your travel plans
(ARA) - Whether you travel for business or pleasure, whether you fly, drive or take a train, there's one other mode of transportation you'll almost certainly use on your trip: your feet.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 6:00 PM CSTEasing the stress of hosting guests during the holiday season
(ARA) - Whether it's for the holidays or another big occasion, hosting people in your home can be both gratifying and stressful. It can be especially tricky when you're entertaining out of town guests for days at a time. By planning ahead, you can avoid some of the common pitfalls that can cause a gathering to go south in a hurry and ensure that both you and your guests have such a great time that everyone will be looking forward to the next get-together once it's all over.
Thursday, December 1, 2011 6:00 PM CSTHow to make sure your vacation home is safe and secure
Nothing is more rewarding than arriving at a point in your life when you can afford a vacation home. Europe, Mexico, or a log cabin in Canada; the possibilities are endless. The location of your dream vacation home may be an easy decision, but deciding how to secure your vacation home may feel overwhelming.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 6:00 PM CSTEat, drink and be merry: Top holiday getaways for a foodie
(ARA) - It seems consumers can always manage to find a slew of excuses to celebrate the end of the year like Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, New Year's and even wrapping up Q4.
Monday, October 3, 2011 7:00 PM CDTHow to hit the slopes on a budget
(ARA) - Planning a ski trip starts with answering these three questions: What mountain should I ski/snowboard? Where should I stay while I'm there? And how much am I willing to spend on lift tickets and equipment rental? A ski excursion can easily cost a traveler thousands of dollars, but consumers who are frugal can get by on about $150 a day per person without sacrificing creature comforts. Here are some money-saving strategies for planning this season's ski trip:
Tuesday, November 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDTNew destinations to ring in the new year
(ARA) - New York City and Las Vegas are perennial favorites for celebrating New Year's Eve. But a new year just begs for some new ideas, especially those that won't leave you in debt after the fireworks are over.
Monday, November 28, 2011 6:00 PM CST
